Fandomized Trash

You were on your knees in a pew towards the entrance of the church. Elbows pressed on the wood in front of you, hands intertwined, and your forehead resting on your fingers. The habit you wore consisted of a plain black dress and a white color, and your veil was pulled back on your head to reveal only a few inches of hair in the front.   

You arrived at Chimney Rock two months ago from your convent in Maine. The church you were told, was in need of a more ‘feminine touch’. Apparently, the previous head pastor was a bit of an intense fellow according to various clergymen, and having a nun to help change the church to have a more friendly disposition was a top priority.

 Although the assignment came as a surprise, with time, you have come to enjoy the people of the quaint town. With effort and time, the people of Chimney Rock started to fill up more of the pews, and church events became a common gathering for the local population. 

As you were reciting your morning prayer under your breath, the door swung open with a creak to reveal the priest you have gotten to know well since your arrival. 

Turning your head around to the source of the noise, Father Jud entered the church in his usual black slacks and clerical shirt. A few steps after making it inside, the priest’s eyes landed on you as he took half a step back.

“Sister y/n, forgive me, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” 

“It’s alright Father.” You rose quickly from your kneeling position to face him completely, hands smoothing out your habit dress to remove any potential wrinkles. “I was just finishing anyway.” 

Jud smiled contently, “So devout, Our Lady of Perpetual Grace is fortunate to have you.” Your mouth widened to return the smile as you bowed your head, cheeks flushing at the complement. 

“That is very kind father, I pray everyday for guidance and courage to serve this community.” 

The priest held your gaze for a few moments before speaking. “Your efforts have not been in vain, you should have seen the place when I first arrived." Jud chuckled to himself looking down. His neck tattoo peaked out from his clerical shirt, it was an unusual trait for a priest, and one of the first things you noticed when you met Father Jud. Even though you have been here for several months, the sight never fails to make you feel dangerous every time you look at it. 

“I’m glad to know you approve,” you said, trying to remain in your meek posture.

Jud nodded in acknowledgement before departing. “I best be preparing my sermon for tomorrow, good day sister.”

You saw the priest walk away and disappear into the back left corridor to the church offices.

Once Father Jud was out of sight, you clenched and unclenched your fists, releasing a breath you didn’t realize you were even holding in. 

It was ridiculous. Jud was nothing but kind and professional around you. But the more time you spent with him, the more he made you nervous. It was a difficult feeling to describe, increased heart rate, more awareness of your senses. It was also part of the reason you woke so early in the morning, praying that this feeling, whatever it was, would go away, and you could continue to serve the church in peace. 

After collecting yourself you knelt back down on the pew, praying again to steady yourself before your thoughts could continue to wander. 

****

Martha rambled on as the two of you organized and cleaned the altar area for the upcoming mass.

“The Monsignor is very particular on seeing that everything is set up adequately.” She stated while adjusting the linens on the mantel. “Make sure that nothing is creasing, it makes for a bad impression.”

“Of course Martha.” You responded with as much courtesy as you could muster. 

Despite how long you have stayed at Chimney Rock, Martha was still convinced she was the only one suitable for arranging any and all church related needs. There was hardly a single task you did that did not involve her extensive oversight. 

She didn’t so much as trust you to touch any of the clerical items without her permission. 

“And Father Jud,” Martha turned around to face him. “Please make sure you tune the organ correctly, it was a bit off key.” Jud looked up from his slight bent over position overlooking the pipes he was adjusting with the tuning knife, face ridden with someone going at a tedious task with little success in the effort. 

“Uh-huh.” Was all he managed to say. 

As you started to place the altar candlesticks, Martha, with her endless list of demands, approached you again. 

“Sister y/n, would you be a dear and get the candle wax from the storage?” You placed the final candlestick down and gave her a strained smile. 

“Certainly.” 

The storage closet, a deep space with a tall ceiling, was one of the last things in the church that you haven’t quite mastered. Cardboard boxes of sacramental bread, communion wine, spare bibles, laundry detergent, music sheets, everything the church needed to function was constantly changing its location from its former spot among the shelves. 

You sighed at the site before you and started to rummage around. Moving through each box, one shelf at a time, your eyes finally caught a white candle stick peaking out from one of the boxes on the top shelf. 

Raising your arm up and standing up on your toes, you tried to grab the box without avail. 

Great. 

Not wanting to face more of Martha’s reproaches, you went to get a small step-stool which was stored in the back office. 

After placing it in front of the shelf, you tried again to reach for the damn candles but the box was pushed too far back. 

“Is everything ok in here?” Father Jud was standing outside of the storage closet, hand against the doorframe. Your head turned over your shoulder to look at him. “Martha was getting a bit impatient and asked me to check in on you.”  

Of course she did. 

“Took me a while to find the candle wax, but I’m bringing it down now." You resumed your initial labor and stretched your arms as far back as you could muster. 

“Do you need any help?” Jud started to advance towards you, taking another step inside the closet. 

“Oh no thank you, I've almost got it.” Just then, as you lifted your heel upwards for extra height, the step-stool leaned forward and fell from under you. 

The free-falling sensation took the air out of your lungs, but instead of being met with the hard floor, Father Jud ran to catch you. One arm under your knees and the other around your shoulder. 

You didn’t even have time to process what just happened until you realized that your body was not in fact, aching in pain on the floor but instead hovering above the ground, in the embrace of a dark haired priest. 

His grip secured you tightly, hand squeezing your upper arm. Even with the fabric separating you, you could still feel how warm his skin was.

“Are you alright?” He asked, voice shaky. 

You looked up and nodded. 

Jud’s deep blue eyes bore into yours fervently, searching for any signs of hurt. 

Your faces were mere inches apart. It was the first time you saw Father Jud with such detail. Staring, you made out the lines and creases in his face, his light stubble, the details of his neck tattoo. Inevitably your eyes wandered down towards the shape of his lips, soft and pink.

Your heart rate started to speed up as your breath got caught in your throat.  

Suddenly, the storage closet felt way too small and way too warm. 

With a sudden start, you shifted yourself from out of his grip and placed your feet on the floor.  

“I don’t think I’m feeling too well.” Hands went up to adjust your veil as you spoke, your head down, unable to look him in the eye without the dread of feeling what you just felt.

“Please tell Martha I apologize, I need to rest.” It was rude, you knew Martha was going to chastise you later, but you couldn’t stand to be in that closet one more second. 

Your shoulder brushed Jud on the way out, sending another volt of energy through your body.

“Wait, sister y/n.” Jud reached his arm out to try and stop you from leaving, but you were already too far down the corridor . 

****

Later that night, back in the sanctuary of your room, no matter how much you tossed and turned, sleep would not come to you. All you could think of was Jud. His touch, his hands, his face, his arms around your shoulders. 

It made the complicated feelings you already had for him worse. 

‘Just keep praying.’ That was what you told yourself, but it was proving to be a useless effort, especially after today. The incident in the storage closet felt like taking the smallest bite out of the world's most delicious cake, it left you wanting more. 

Your whole body was vibrating. Gently touching your shoulder, you could almost still feel his grasp on you. 

How were you going to be able to stand living here? There was no escaping Jud, you hardly had a day where your paths didn’t cross. And each time they would, you knew that an inescapable feeling of shame would swallow you whole. 

****

You pushed Jud into the far corners of your mind. There was always something that needed to be done in the church that provided ample distraction. Cleaning the floors, planning the next community event, arranging the schedule for the upcoming month, preparing for food drives. 

There was not a moment in your day where your mind lingered on the incident for longer than a few moments before you pushed the thought back down. 

Now, it was night, and the last of jobs you have assigned yourself was to clean the altar space. The mass this morning came and went and you took it upon yourself to clean the space yourself for tomorrow, much to Martha’s dismay. 

You scrubbed the chalice voraciously. Even after there was not a smudge left, your towel was still moving in quick circular formations, you were in no rush to return to your room for what would surely be another night of rough sleep. 

Completely absorbed in your task, you failed to hear the footsteps from the corridor that entered the room.

“Tell me I’m not the only one who feels it too?” 

You looked up from the chalice with a start. Jud. 

“Father, what are you-” You couldn’t finish your sentence before he cut you off.

“You need to tell me.” He started to walk towards the altar, face desperate. “I can’t go on not knowing if I am delusional or if there is actually something between us.” Jud was now pacing back and forth.  

You took in a sharp inhale, abandoning the chalice and towel. 

 “We took vows.” The words were spoken through your teeth as Jus finally stopped his pacing. “We committed our lives to this, to Christ. And I will not abandon it now.” Despite your decisive tone, there was still an air of uncertainty in your voice. 

Jud however, was everything but uncertain. He walked around the altar until you were so close you could practically feel the heat radiating off him. 

“Then tell me.” He spoke calmly and lowered his head. “If you are so devoted and so sure of yourself, then tell me you feel nothing.” Once again, his eyes bore into yours, awaiting your response. 

But it wouldn’t come. Because the right answer, the answer that would align with the life you have dedicated yourself to, would be a lie. And denying it any more than you already have has left you with nothing but further confusion and guilt. 

Jud lowered his head a little more, and just like in the storage closet, your eyes caught his lips. 

His next words were a whisper. “That’s what I thought.”

What happened next was slow and perhaps always unavoidable, Jud slowly leaned forward and closed the gap between you.

His lips were just as soft to the touch as you imagined. The kiss was slow and deliberate, Jud almost seemed hesitant at first, but it didn’t take long for a rhythm to ensue.

When your lips opened ever so slightly, Jud took the moment to slide in his tongue for the kiss to deepen. 

Your back suddenly hit the altar as the candlesticks and crucifix shook from the force. 

Then after, you felt his hand slide up to cup your waist pulling you in closer while the other wrapped behind your neck, his fingertips tenderly circling your nape.

Not entirely sure what to do with your hands, you reached up and slowly ran your fingers through his hair.

Soon after, Jud pressed himself against your body. A noticeable hardness could be felt from his pelvic area that caused you to gasp. You knew about the male anatomy in a theoretical sense. From anatomy classes and school, but for all your life, it wasn’t something that deserved exploration. Doing so would be dangling a carrot above your head that is just too tall to reach. 

But there is no time to learn like the present. 

Jud started to grind up and down as his mouth moved from your lips to your neck. 

You let out a faint moan. A heat was spreading through your body like wild fire, who knew burning could feel so good. 

“Tell me to stop.” He whispered in your ear. “If you want this to end, I’ll stop right now, no questions asked.”

There it was. The precipice of the cliff the two of you have been climbing all along.

Your fingers scrunched his hair as your eyes shut tight, head on the crook of his neck. Even if you stopped now, you were already past the point of no return. It probably already happened in the storage closet, when something long dormant had finally awoken. 

“I need you Father Jud.” You mustered out. “I need all of you.”

Jud wasted no time in picking up where he stopped. Hands on your waist, he lifted you up with ease so that you were sitting on the altar and resumed kissing you, with slightly more force than before.

Your arm went behind you to the marble surface for support as your torso leaned back.

The grinding came to a sudden stop as the priest made room to allow his hand to make its way under your skirt. 

Abruptly, he made his way through your undergarments until he found the source of your arousal. A warm digit inserted itself between your folds. 

You couldn’t remember the last time you truly felt yourself. Self-pleasure was an act you had set aside after you committed yourself to the church. The sensation was almost unfamiliar but oh so welcomed. You tossed your head back and let out a whine. 

A second finger soon made its way in as Jud continued to pump them in and out. Your cunt was able to quickly adapt to the stretch as his fingers became coated in your wetness. 

But it wasn’t enough.

“Fa- Father Jud?” You asked breathlessly. “I want all of you.” 

He looked up and removed his soaked finger from your aching hole, which was practically whimpering from the emptiness. 

Jud looked serious. Brows furrowed and his jaw clenched. 

“Are you sure?” His gaze remained low. 

As your hand remained behind you on the surface of the altar, the other reached out to caress his face. “For the first time, I’m going to stop denying myself what I want.” Your thumb stroked his cheek, outlining the gentle crevices of his face.

Jud inhaled sharply and pushed you further back, the candlesticks and crucifix falling from the altar with a loud clang that you both hardly noticed.

His hand moved to his slacks where he carefully slid down the fabric to reveal his engorged length which popped out from his boxers with a spring.

You swallowed. Fingers were one thing, but Jud’s dick was a whole other story.

Sensing the uncertainty in your eyes, he made sure to reassure you. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll go slow.” The priest climbed on top of the altar and pulled down your undergarments out from your legs which were now soaked with arousal.

Positioning himself between your legs, Jud inserted only the tip to start. 

You winced at the discomfort. Stopping himself from pushing further, Jud waited until you accommodated to the stretch and agonizingly split open the rest of your tight hole. 

Your walls ached as he buried himself inside you. Once he reached the hilt, you failed to suppress a cry. Your back arched in response to the expansion and your nails dug into the skin of his shoulders. 

For a moment, Jud didn’t move. Allowing yourself to feel the entirety of his thick length.

He hovered on top of you as each of his hands were placed on the altar’s surface between you. 

Then, he started to cautiously pull out a quarter of his dick before sinking it back in. He continued to slide in and out as soft cries continued to escape your throat. 

The church surroundings faded away until it was nothing but a hazy blur. Jud was all there was. All that existed.  

How was it that you have gone so long without this? Jud’s dick completed you in a way your sisterhood never did, and now never could.

In a change of pace, he removed himself all the way out before thrusting back in. Pleasure was immersing itself in your body.

“Fuck, you seel so good y/n.” Jud dropped the ‘sister’ from your name. It was symbolic in a way. Whatever the aftermath of this was, you knew that being a sister was not in the cards. 

His thrusts became harder and more frantic as he was chasing some intangible high. A hand reached under your habit shirt to grope your breasts while his other thumb pressed down on your clit. 

The double stimulation undid you. Your cunt started to pulsate around his cock which became all the more drenched in your juices. 

A sharp ‘Ah-’ came from your lips as he continued to pound into you, pursuing his own climax which came with a shudder. 

Ropes of warm cum coated your walls. Jud collapsed on top of you, panting as beads of sweat covering his forehead. 

Turning your head, you could still make out the shape of the cross from your blurred vision. 

Maybe it was out of instinct or pure habit, but your eyes shut close and started to murmur under your breath.

“Father Lord in heaven, I have sinned against you…”

After trudging down the steps of the greyhound, your Aunt Martha was already there to pick you up. Dressed in black from head to toe and face ready for war. 

“I see the big city has undone you.” She said after eyeing you up and down, not even saying so much as a ‘hello’. “Thankfully it is nothing that a few months of hard work can’t undo.” 

“Great to see you too, Aunt Martha.” You replied with a fake smile.

“You watch your tone young lady.” Her index finger became rigid as she pointed it towards you. “There will be no funny business. Your parents want you to finally compose yourself and I will do everything in my power to make sure it happens.”  

Yeah right.

With that, she began walking steadfast to her car. 

Following two steps behind and rolling your eyes, you put your luggage in the trunk without ceremony and plopped into the passenger seat. After fastening your seatbelt, you reached up to lower the sun visor right before applying a fresh coat of lipstick using the vanity mirror.  

A gasp could be heard from your right as your aunt caught sight of the golden tube. “You are daft if you are thinking that your lewd habits will continue under my roof.” She swiped the lipstick from your hands and into the center console. You let out a low groan of annoyance and flipped up the sun visor with a thud.

Soon enough, the ignition was roaring to life and the car took off to what would be your home for the Summer.

After several minutes of silence, your aunt began to rattle off the several expectations she had for you during your stay. “I suppose I should be grateful for your misbehavior, I do everything for this church and an extra set of hands is exactly what I need.” Her tone was brisk and pretentious. “You will help with cleaning, housekeeping, filing, booking, and later today once you are settled I will introduce you to Samson, Monsignor Wicks and Father Jud.”

Your eyebrows furrowed at the sound of the third name. Your aunt has raved endlessly on the Monsignor but the name Father Jud brought no recognition.

“Father Jud has recently been assigned to us by the bishops of his original parish to be our assistant pastor.” Martha said, clarifying.

“Kay.” Way all you could bother to mutter out in response. Reaching into your purse, you pulled out a stick of gum and popped it into your mouth, allowing the minty flavor to spread across your tongue. 

This was going to be a long Summer.

****

The day passed uneventfully. Aunt Martha showed you to your room. Small, unassuming, a single bed and a small desk. Once your clothes were packed, you were all but dragged to the church your Aunt was desperate for you to see. 

The stone building stood tall before you, imposing itself with its towers and stained glass windows. 

“Neo-gothic 19th century. Beautiful isn’t it?” 

“Sure, whatever.” You shrugged, blowing your gum and popping it.

The site made you think of your friends who would be spending their summer holidays in the hamptons, palm beach, and the bahamas. But you on the other hand, were going to spend it in a fucking church. If the situation wasn’t so miserable, you would have laughed. 

“Ah there is my Samson.” By the bushes closer to the church, an elderly man with a hedge shear was cutting off the excess branches. 

The two of you started to approach him. “Samson darling.” Martha said, calling his attention. “This is my niece y/n. She will be helping the church for the Summer.” 

Samson gave you a wide grin. “It is a pleasure to meet you y/n.” 

“Likewise.” Your tone was more stilted than you intended, but you truly could not be bothered by trying to make a good impression. What was even the point? After three months, you will be back in the city with your friends living the life you were always living. This was nothing more than a small hiccup for what will surely once again be your fabulous life of nights that went on till the sun rose and long strolls around the West Village.

Your Aunt approached the man, Samson, until they were mere inches apart. 

She took his free hand in hers before speaking. “I’ll see you after the mass tomorrow darling.” You could hear your Aunt mutter under her breath. 

Your eyebrows raised. The thought that your Aunt Martha was getting it more than you during your stay made you almost recoil. Soon enough, the tender moment came to an end as she whipped your head around to face you.

“Come now, we mustn't keep the Monsignor waiting.” Her voice returned to its usual clipped manner as she hurried to the main entrance. 

Inside, the church was cooler compared to the hot summer air. A long red carpet went down the middle with rows of pews on each side. At the end of the aisle, a ship-like ambo stood on the left of the altar which is where you assumed the Monsignor delivered his sermons. As you and your Aunt were walking towards the back of the building, looking up, your eyes took in the wooden rafter beams with carvings of avenging angels. 

“This is where most of the administrative work will be done.” Aunt Martha showed you to an office that was cluttered with filing cabinets, binders, shelves, and boxes. “Soon enough you’ll know what is stored where in a heartbeat.” Leaving you no time to further take in the cramped space, you soon made your way to the back exit of the church where outside, some 20 yards away, two men on opposite benches sat facing each other. 

“Now,” she began, voice hushed, “you ought to make a good impression on the Monsignor, the last thing you need is to get off on the wrong foot- Oh Monsignor, Father Jud, I’d like you to meet y/n.” Her voice raised at the end to grab the attention of the two men. Taking hold of your arm, she all but dragged you to the iron benches where the two men stood up to face you both.

“This is my niece. Came all the way from the city to be my helping hand, and to clear her head while at it.” Your aunt glared at you while you lightly tossed your head back, releasing a groan.

“Ah, the troubled girl.” The older of the two men walked forward to greet you. “I’ve heard much about you. I am confident to say that some time at Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude is exactly what you need.” He clasped his hands together and smiled. “Discipline helps the heart.” 

Clearly your reputation has been noted by the two clergy men.

“Yeah, we’ll see about that.” You said resentfully, hand on your hip while your eyes wandered absentmindedly to the scenery around you, your teeth still chewing on the gum. 

“Ahem.” Aunt Martha cleared her throat to fill the silence.   

Monsignor Wicks started without a beat. “I apologize for not greeting you in the church properly, I was just finishing my confession with Father Jud.” Behind the Monsignor a dark haired man stood before you looking rather flustered. 

This must be the newbie.

He was younger than you expected. Not the middle aged balding priest that immediately flooded your mind once your aunt mentioned him. In fact, he was actually quite good looking. 

“I’m delighted to finally make your acquaintance.” He said beaming. “Martha has told us much about you.”

“Well I hope my reputation precedes me.” You smiled pleasantly, holding your hands being your back and cocking your head down in a sarcastic and frivolous attempt to look demure.

“We best be going, y/n has had a long day of travel and needs rest. Goodbye to you both.” Once again, she grabbed your arm and led you back inside.

“Don’t get any ideas.” She hissed into your ear. “If I detect a sliver of depravity from you, best believe there will be consequences.” 

You scoffed, ignoring your Aunt’s warning. So what? It was a small town, you were cooped up in a church with nothing to do but organize and clean. What was a bit of fun?

Right before reentering the church, you took one last look at Jud talking to Monsignor Wicks. Absorbing his stature, soft hair, faint stubble, dark blue eyes. After walking past the office and the rows of pews, a single thought entered your mind. ‘Maybe summer won't be so boring after all.’ 

****

The next day, Martha woke you bright and early to help prepare for mass. 

“His compassions never fail; they are new every morning. Lamentation 3:22.” Your aunt spoke with undeniable pride at the recitement of the verse. 

Using a rag, you polished the liturgical items on the altar. Certainly far from your ideal Sunday morning. 

“You missed a smudge there darling.” Aunt Martha pointed to the chalice that you had set aside after cleaning. 

“That sucks.” Your tone was impassive as you made no effort to polish it again, keeping your eyes down at the paten you were currently working on. 

Using her own rag, your Aunt gave you a swat.

“What the hell?! What’s your problem you old-”

“Don’t use the Lord’s words in vain.” The grey haired lady said sharply. “I said no funny business and through His grace I mean it.” 

Just in time, Monsignor Wicks entered through the north transept. 

“Ladies! Wonderful to see you both taking such care of our sacred vessels.” The Monsignor was dressed in his traditional regalia, ready to deliver whatever sermon he had prepared. 

“We are almost done here Monsignor.” Your Aunt swiftly snatched the chalice and rubbed the infinitesimally small smudge before grabbing you off the altar, having you sit on the pew second to the font, where Samson was already waiting. 

Jud sat on the right hand side of the altar, chair pressed against the wall as he stared ahead dutifully. He turned towards the congregation while more attendees piled into the nave of the church. 

Eventually, his eyes wandered towards you.

Feeling dangerous, you have him a sly grin and a wink. The Father’s ears turned red and he quickly turned away. 

The reaction made you chuckle. 

When the Monsignor eventually walked up to the ambo, the remaining murmurs fizzled out. The rest of mass was one hour of your attention zooming in and out. Wicks spoke fervently, but not fervently enough to actually make you care about whatever biblical trope he decided to speak on today. 

Once the mass finally came to an end, Martha and Samson ran off together to God knows where. The rest of the congregation either went home, off to other engagements they had planned, or to circle around Monsignor Wicks with hope he would offer whatever words of encouragement or validation they were seeking. 

You, on the other hand, lingered inside the church, waiting till the attendees to fizzle out in order to approach the only person that has thus far added some quantity of entertainment to your stay. 

The Father was in the back arranging a candle and holy oils for a baptism later in the day.

“So, what’s with the neck tat?” Jud looked startled as you walked towards him until only the credence table was separating you. 

“Uhh, I boxed.” You arched a brow. “Sorry.” He stumbled over his words. “I realized that has nothing to do with the tattoo. What I meant to say is that before I joined the seminary, I used to be a boxer, and during that time I got my tattoos.” The Father rubbed his hands nervously, unsure what to say next.

“A boxer.” You took one step closer to the credence table. “That’s actually really hot.” If the Father was fidgety before, now he was downright trembling. 

“It was a long time ago.” He said while scratching the back of his neck, unable to fully meet your eye.

“Well Father, if I never need to learn to punch I know who to turn to.” You turned around, hips swaying, absorbing all of the self-gratification you could reap from your small rebellion. 

****

After the first week, you finally started to get a hang of the ropes and where things went in this organized chaos. You woke up to whatever bible verse your Aunt had a calling to, arrived at the church and helped with whatever tasks needed to be addressed that day. Administrative duties, laundry, cleaning the floors, stocking the supplies, taking calls, making orders, setting up for mass. 

Eventually, you had enough of a grasp on how to do what, that you didn’t need Martha to assist you with everything. 

But every now and then, when you were lucky, Jud would cross your path. Or more so, orchestrated your path to oh-so-conveniently run into him. 

One afternoon, you were in the church residence building that the Monsignor and the young priest inhabited. As you were cleaning the windows, you turned your head over your shoulder to face Jud. “You did a great job today during mass Father.” 

Jud looked up from his book on the chair in front of the fireplace. 

“Oh, it was nothing.” His voice was low as he shook his head and looked down. “I just prepared the Eucharist.” 

“Handsome and humble? I’m sure the girls went crazy when you joined the priesthood.” 

Jud blushed at the comment and returned to his book, but not before a soft smile creeped on his lips.

“I really don’t think they lost much from me.” 

You turned back to the window. “Well I beg to differ.”

A few days later while stocking supplies, you called the priest over for help. 

“Father? I really hope you don’t mind, but could you help me lift these boxes on the top shelf? Surely you still have those muscles from your boxing days.” 

The dark haired clergyman was more than happy to assist. “Sure thing y/n.”

It became a pattern. You made some off-hand flirtatious comment or asked for assistance for some simple labor, Jud either helped you dutifully or turned crimson trying to come up with a smooth response as you suppressed a smirk. It was a minor serotonin rush each time. It gave you something to look forward to and was the closest you could get to some feeling of elation. 

****

One afternoon in the church residence, a month and a half into your stay, you overheard Wicks and Jud in the study as you were bringing a basket of dirty clothes down to the laundry. 

“I think it would really help the church if we started to branch out a bit. Show the community we care. Nothing too extravagant, maybe a food drive or a car wash that can raise money-” 

“You are getting ahead of yourself Father.”

You stopped at the edge of the stairwell. Eavesdropping was probably some kind of sin your Aunt would thoroughly disapprove of, but the conversation was too intriguing. 

The Monsignor continued. “I understand you have good intentions, but when I took over this church, I did so with the intent that people would fear God and feel his might, not to take handouts.” 

“But I-”

“Enough Father. You are not here to do as you please. You are here to do as I say. Now,” you heard him rise from his chair. “I need to get going, I’m going to grab a drink with Dr. Nat. Have a good night Father.” Wicks left the residence without seeing you. 

“Argh, that jerk.” You heard the Father cry in frustration. 

You walked to the doorframe before leaning against it, resting the laundry basket against your hip as Jud intertwined his fingers behind his head while a heavy sigh escaped him. 

“Sorry about that.” You replied half-sympathetically. 

Jud jumped in response, turning around to face you fully. 

“Y/n, you really snook up on me.” Jud put his hand over his heart to steady himself.

“My bad, I didn’t mean to scare you.” 

“It’s no problem, runs in the family I guess.” He offered a comforting smile. 

“Huh?” You tilted your head in confusion. 

“Martha, she- nevermind.” Silence engulfed the room. 

Jud stood awkwardly, his expression in its usual state caught between embarrassment and amiability. 

“Sucks about Wicks. I think a charity event is exactly what this town full of snobs need.” 

Jud shrugged. “Well you heard Monsignor, he has the final say.”

You scoffed. “He’s a real dickhead if you ask me.” To your surprise, a small chuckle escaped the priest's lips. “I know you won’t cuss out the Monsignor, but I will. Then you can live vicariously through me.” 

“Thanks y/n. I’m glad you’re here.” Jud’s voice was full of genuineness. 

Before the thought formed, the words already escaped you. “Me too.” 

There was at least some truth to it. Scrubbing floors, doing dishes, and stocking up on sacramental bread and cheap wine is far from a perfect summer. But having another person to share at least some of your misery with made it a bit bearable. 

****

Next week, during late in the evening, your Aunt gave you a pile of books to place on the shelf in the residence. They were stacked one on top of each other, creating a tower that went almost to your shoulder. You were hoping for some interesting titles, but unfortunately they all seemed to be theology books or Danielle Steel novels that you knew Martha indulged in. 

As you were shelving, a voice came from behind you. “Hey again.” You gasped in surprise, body flinching as the tower of books toppled over. 

“I’m so sorry.” Turning around, you saw Jud moved towards you and the fallen texts, crouching down to restack them. 

“It’s really no problem.” You bent down to try and take over.

“Please,” Jud looked up, his blue eyes full of sincerity, while your breath escaped you. “I’m the reason it fell, allow me to rectify it.” You nodded, allowing him to continue. 

In silence, you two assembled the books in its original pile. 

“Thank you by the way. I guess it was your turn to scare me now.” You joked, trying to make the priest feel better. 

 “If it was my aunt who startled me she would have wagged her finger and rebuked me for my clumsiness.” Jud laughed. 

“Well I suppose it's a good thing it was me then.” Jud returned your smile as a small warmth spread in your chest. 

“You have been an amazing help all summer.” He continued. “I know Martha doesn't show it, but I know she appreciates you.” 

You gave him a playful look that read, 'are you serious right now?’ 

“C’mon.” You said nudging him with your elbow, head shaking as you faced the bookshelf. “She thinks I’m a walking abomination.” Jud’s face turned a bit more serious, looking almost deep in thought. 

“Maybe Martha thinks so, but I sure don’t.” Your gaze met his again, the details of the circumstances almost making you laugh. A girl sent away upstate due to reckless behavior and a boxer-turned-priest. 

You could have sworn, for a brief moment, Jud’s eyes went down to your lips as he inhaled sharply . But the instant it happened, he looked up again, his familiar red hue spreading across his face. 

“Are you alright Father?” You grabbed the side of his arm gently, feeling him tense under your touch. 

“Yes, yes, I am.” He responded with almost too much insistence. “I better head up, I have an early mass tomorrow.”

“Of course.” You said as if it were obvious. “Have a good night Father.” 

Jud gave you one last smile before going upstairs.

Now alone, you finished shelving the last of the books. On the way back to your aunt’s place, the same thought repeated itself in your mind, What the hell was that?

****

It was the start of the third month of your stay, meaning that your time at Chimney Rock was almost coming to an end. Although this was definitely far from your best summer, the initial resentment you felt after first arriving has slowly faded. You still hated early morning mass, and any task that involved cleaning, but knowing you had Jud in your corner brought some solace. He approached you now more often, still got red at your teasing comments, and even made the occasional joke when Martha and the Monsignor were being their usual high-minded selves. 

During a sunny morning after a 9am service, you were outside, back pressed against the wall of the church exterior and eyes closed as you were soaking in the warmth. 

The moment only lasted so long before your aunt gave you another of what have been endless swats with on-hand rags. 

“What now?” You asked, more exhausted than frustrated. 

“Please come to the back office, you need to file some last minute documents.” She gave you no chance to respond before scurrying off inside. 

Rolling your eyes, you started to make your way back in before the sight of Jud standing with a young man wearing a baseball cap on the other side of the church entrance caught your attention. 

“I just don’t know what to do. Every time I go back they just look at me like I’m some sort of tragic mistake even though I’ve gotten clean…” The man continued to speak as Jud stood there, nodding every now and then at his words, listening in complete concentration.

“What you did was incredibly hard, I’ve known several people who have also suffered from addiction and it is a rough battle. You should be proud of yourself.” The man started to relax as Jud continued. 

“Just because your family is treating you like this doesn’t mean you should punish yourself. We are all imperfect people, and we ought not to judge others for their past, especially those who have come so far. I promise you there will always be people who will accept and love every part of you, the good and the bad.”  

“Thank you so much Father.” The man’s voice cracked a bit before Jud pulled him into a hug. 

The scene left you stunned. You’ve never seen Wicks talk like that with anyone. Almost all of the townsfolk treated him like a scary celebrity. 

Not wanting Jud or the man to notice your prying, you walked back inside quickly, your thoughts in unexplainable confusion and your heart racing. 

It wasn’t the last time you noticed Jud be a real priest. A woman who left her violent husband and was seeking consolation, a couple who lost their child, a young woman who recently had to cut off her parents. Jud listened to them thoroughly, promised reassurance, promised to pray for them, and each night he followed up on that promise. 

One night after putting the clothes in the dryer, you started to make your way up until you heard Father Jud on the couch, hands clasped in prayer. 

“I pray that she finds peace with herself, that she acknowledges her worth and intelligence, I pray for her guidance towards a prosperous life, that she feels your love. This we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.” 

Suddenly, a small feeling of guilt rose in your stomach. What the hell are you doing? 

Father Jud was good. Not the regular every day good where you say please and thank you and hold the door open for strangers. But the kind of good where each and every action he did was with the intent of serving others, making things easier for people, and real genuine care. And for the past three months, he was nothing but a toy for you to pick and prod at. And to make matters worse, if your intuition served you right, he might actually have feelings for you. All because you were bored, you played with the emotions of a good man. 

Before you knew it, your guilt had developed into shame. You couldn’t bear to walk to the living room. One sight of your face and Jud, being the compassionate person he was, would ask what was wrong, and there was no answer you could give him without admitting the truth. 

****

You decided then and there that you would put an end to this. No more ‘harmless’ flirting, no more nudges and pokes, no more feigning innocence. 

For the remaining days, you avoided his eyes, turned around when you saw him walking in your direction, took the back entrance of the church when he was in the front, and left mass immediately after it ended. Soon summer will be over, you will go back to the city, and eventually, both you and Jud will have completely forgotten the other even existed. But things are always easier said than done. 

On a Tuesday morning, you were on your hands and knees, scrubbing the floor of the left aisle where a bottle of the cheap communion wine shattered after the plastic bag gave out from the weight. 

You gripped the cleaning brush vigorously while trying to make the stain go away. So concentrated on the mess and your eyes glued to the floor, you didn’t notice the footsteps that were heading in your direction. 

“Did I do something wrong?” Your head shot up and low and behold, you were face to face with the very man you were trying to avoid for the past week.

“I Just-” Jud cut himself off, trying to find the words to continue. “I don’t know if I offended you or did something wrong-”

“No!” You stood up suddenly, leaving the brush on the floor, you spoke with more urgency than you intended. “Father Jud, you did nothing wrong. I promise you.” You thought coming clean now was easier than beating around the bush. Taking a breath in and out to steady yourself, you resumed your speech. “I just want to keep things professional between us. I have realized my actions have been..” You trailed off, swallowing before finishing your sentence. “...Not as appropriate as they could have been.” There it was. The truth, the admission. It came out easier than you expected, but the knowledge of your actions still weighed heavily on you. 

“Oh.” He looked down. “I’m sorry, I just assumed that- well I thought that- it doesn’t matter.” The priest said with an exasperated smile. “I promise to give you space.” With that, he started to turn to leave.

“Wait, Father Jud.” Without much thought, you reached for his wrist to stop him from leaving. He froze at the contact. 

“I don’t want space.” You pleaded. 

“What do you want then y/n? You can’t ignore me for a week and then say you actually don't want to be left alone.” You grimaced at the sound of your own actions. 

Your mouth opened and closed, but the words you were searching for couldn’t come out. Your hand fell from his wrist and landed lamely next to your torso. 

Deep down, you knew the truth. What you were denying to yourself ever since the day you overheard Jud in prayer for the young woman. You weren’t positive that the priest had feelings for you, but telling yourself that was in some way easier than confronting your own emotional reality…That you had feelings for him. 

A massive lump was caught in your throat. He was a priest. 

A very handsome and kind priest, but a priest nonetheless. And you, you were certainly not priestly. You partied till dawn, drank without limits, and flirted with whoever caught your eye. 

Jud looked at you desperately. You couldn’t leave him hanging. 

“I’m so sorry Father, you were nothing but kind and good and I was all but using you to fulfill my own selfish needs and I only now realized how unfair that was.” Your words tumbled out breathlessly, “I hope you don’t hate me, the good news is that it’s almost the end of summer and soon enough, I’ll be out of your hair for good and you’ll never have to-”

Before you could finish your sentence, Jud grabbed the sides of your face and brought his lips to yours, knocking the breath out of you.

The kiss took you by surprise. It wasn’t long before you set your shock aside and melted into it. For a priest, Jud was a surprisingly good kisser. 

When he finally broke away, it was your turn to be the one who blushed, heat rising to your cheeks. 

“Father..” You faltered. 

“You can just call me Jud.” While one of his hands fell down, the other moved to the back of your neck as his fingers circled your nape. 

“I’d like that.” You released a breathy laugh as Jud pressed his forehead against yours. The sun shone through the stained glass windows leaving a warm sensation on your skin. The moment would have been perfect if not for that very moment, your Aunt entered the church. 

A gasp so horrifying echoed through the church, causing you and Jud to whip your heads towards the direction of the sound. 

Within an instant, Martha’s expression went from shocked to anger. “Why, you immoral, sleazy, dissolute young woman!” Each word was pronounced louder than the next as she sped towards you.

“Just when I thought you were starting to become more civil you go on to corrupt a priest with your lubricious ways!” Martha was starting to enter a frenzy as she paced back and forth scolding you. “I should tell your parents right away, they should send you to a convent in Vermont, and trust me when I say they will not nearly be as nice as me.”

“Martha please.” Jud interrupted. “This isn’t y/n’s fault, I was the one who approached her.” Your Aunt pursed her lips. “I didn’t mean to fall for her. It just kind of happened.” He turned his head to the side to face you, offering you a heart-felt look. 

“And if you are planning to tell the Monsignor, by all means, go ahead, I could care less about what the old man thinks.” He took your hand and squeezed it. 

Martha gave you both a grave expression. 

“Idiots!” She said at last. “Both of you. To take advantage of such hospitality. You young people have no sense of duty…” Martha went on and on about honor and sacrifice before Samson entered to ask her for help with a delivery. 

“I’m done with you both yet.” She gave one last pointed look before exiting the church. 

When the large doors shut, you faced Jud. 

“Now what?” The priest shrugged, clearly unbothered by your aunt's outburst. 

“Now we do whatever the hell I want.”

****

The Monsignor surprisingly didn’t care. In fact, he gave Jud a loud clap on the back and congratulations much to your disgust.

As fall started to creep its way into New York, instead of heading back to the city, you found a quaint apartment in Chimney Rock. A place you can sleep in for as long as you want and not have to wake up a random verse from the book of Exodus.

After tying your other shoe, you got up to make your way to the door. “Bye mama, see you in a bit.” You called out over your shoulder as the door shut behind you. 

***

You giggled loudly as you sipped a glass with your friend Nellie over the music.

“I swear to you I did.” Nellie spoke, still hunched over laughing. 

“At least tell me he kissed you after all that?” 

Your close friend was sharing a story about a boy she knows from church, and apparently, after last night, knows on a more intimate level. 

“Not even a peck on the cheek.” Nellie said with perfect annunciation. 

“Good lord. All that sucking for what?” 

“Y/n, shhh.” Your friend put her finger to her lips and started to look around her for any potential eavesdroppers. “What if someone hears?” 

“Who cares. At this point, who hasn’t sucked on something in this place?” You lamanted. “If they have anything to say then they are just hypocrites.” 

“Aren’t you the wisecracker?” You smiled smugley and shrugged. Things didn’t slip your mind easily, however, your sharp wit and fast tonge is usually what gets you in trouble. 

You could’t help questioning authority, pushing the bonds of what was permissible, especially from your parents. It was your little way of getting a thrill in a place where there wasn’t much to thrill about. 

“So, do you think any boy will get lucky tonight?” Nellie said while giving your shoulder a nudge with her own. 

You eyed the room around you. There were certainly good looking men, no doubt about it, but tonight you couldn’t be bothered. 

“Not tonight I’m afraid.” 

“Pity.” Nellie said with a pout.

“But not for me.” The two of you, like school girls, laughed profusely. 

“Did your mama also tell you about the incidents?” You asked. 

“Which Delta mama hasn’t? I don’t know about you, but I’m gonna keep my head down till this mess dies down.”

“You can’t be serious Nell.” You moaned. “It’s just a silly superstition, odds are it was some coyote or a bear. And the man skipped town after he knocked up some girll.”

Nellie looked less than convinced. “I’m not too sure y/n. Never in my years have I heard of animals being ripped open, blood almost all gone. Something is amiss, I feel it in my bones.” You frowned, but didn’t continue the conversation. Nellie was almost just as spooked as your mama, and you were not going to let a good day go to waste. 

***

After your feet started to get sore, you knew it was time to head home. You waved goodbye to your friend as you stepped out of the building. The sun still hasn’t finished setting, meaning you were in no rush to get home. Wanting to take advantage of the extra time, you decided to take the long walk by the river. 

You strolled leisurely by the water, feeling a warm air on your face and the gentle sounds coming from the forest around you. As your mind started to wander and daydream, a blurry movement barely caught your eye. 

You instantly left your dazy mind and focused on the scenery in front of you. However nothing seemed amiss. 

Blaming it on a trick of the imagination, you went on with your walk home, but then it caught your eye again, this time more clearly, somone, a man no doubt, was running several yards in front of you, remarkably fast. 

The sight took your breath away in surprise. Was the man chasing something? Was something chasing him? Your curiosity got the best of you and you followed the man’s path, carelessly straying from your way home. 

After walking in his direction for several minutes, you came to a clearing in the forest. A large area covered with tall grass and wildflowers with a log cabin in the center. You stood on the edge of the clearing, head peeking out from a thick tree. 

Peering to the window on the side of the cabin, you saw the same figure move. Eyes squinting for a closer look, you were able to make out the figure. From what you could tell, the man had a strong frame and dark hair. 

When you were about to stick your head out further for a better look, the man's head turned, and despite being somne 20 yards away, the red gleam in his eye was unmistakable. 

You gasped and moved back so behind the tree, hand to your chest. Realizing that the last rays of sunlight were slipping away, you ran back home, the burning red eyes you saw in the cabin burned in your mind. 

By the time you arrived home, night had just fallen, your mother gave you a stern look from her spot on the couch as she sat knitting. 

You knew she wasn’t happy with you pushing the boundaries of your curfew but not enough to say something. 

Aftering tucking yourself in bed for the night, eager to get a good night's sleep before your job tomorrow, you still couldn’t shake the haunting image of the man, and you decided then and there that you were going to find out who, or what he is. 

***

The next day after your humdrum work, you went to the same neck of the woods you were last evening, walking aimlessly through the trees, trying to use your senses to capture any unordinary sights or sounds. 

But, much to your misfortune, nothing seemed amiss. The Delta widlneress seemed to encomapss you completely, with nothing but birds chirping, the wind blowing through branches and the occasional rodent scurrying through the bushes.  Just when you were about to give up, you were able to once again find the cabin from yesterday. 

The thrill seeking part of you wanted to run up to the cabin and open the door, but the rational part of you knew it was unwise, if you wanted to find out anything more about this man, you had to be careful and keep yourself hidden. Exposing yourself too early might ruin any chances of learning more.

And so you waited. Right as the sun was setting, while walking the peremiter of the clearning, you heard the cabin door open. Just like yesterday, you stuck your head out from behind the trunk of a tree, this time from the front left side of the perimeter. You made sure to tell your mama that you would be with Nellie for the night, allowing you ample time for investigation. 

As the man was walking out, you shifted your position to allow yourself a better view, however, as your feet shuffled, a loud snap was heard from under your foot. 

His head snapped around to the sounds direction while you stood frozen in your spot. Thankfully, you were too far away, and the trees too thick for the mystery man to turn back around and dismiss the noise. You let out a long sigh of relief. 

This time, making sure to watch your step, you started to follow him slowly and carefully, keeping a good amount of distance between the two of you, moving from tree to tree.. 

Not long, a rabbit was hopping through the evergreens, catching the man’s attention. Staying hidden, you watched to see what he would do next. 

Waiting for the rabbit’s next move, the second the forest critter jumped, the man moved with unhuman-like speed to grab it as he went to his knees in the bush. You jumped back at the sudden movement gasping. 

When he rose again, the rabbit lay limp, but what happened next you could never expect. The man went to bite the rabbit, sinking its teeth in deep. 

Your lip parted in shock at the scene before you. Just like a car crash, you couldn’t look away. 

The man seperated himself from the rabbit, mouth covered in blood as he tossed the animal aside. 

Your brain slowly connected the dots. The critters found in the forest drained of blood, the missing man, the very sight in front of you. It all became crystal clear. You knew from your mama’s stories, and from everyone else in town for that matter that the smart thing would be to turn back and go home as fast as you could, But you were never one to let a good story end so soon. 

After he, the vampire, finished his meal, he jumped up so high it was if he were simply floating. He moved away from your position in the trees and soon out of your line of sight.  

You let out a humph of frustration, dissapointed that your inquiry came to an end. But you weren’t going to give up so easily.

***

Deciding to accept the loss, you go to Nellie’s place to spend the night to avoid your mother’s suspicion. It was a Saturday, and the day came and went as you went back to your parent’s house to help your mama around the house. 

But the moment the sun was setting. you knew exactly where to go. Giving your mama another lame excuse, you went back to the thick forest, this time knowing where the mystery man’s cabin is. 

Soon enough, you reached the wooden house, still trying to keep out of sight from the windows. Eventually, you saw him emerge from the other side of the clearing walking towards the house.

Your curious eyes continued to peer at him in pure wonder. How silly your mama was, how silly was Nellie and everyone else in town to throw such a fuss over a single man. 

As he was maming his way to the front of the cabin, he elevated himself from the ground just as he did the day before. Your head fell back, trying to see where he went off too, but the tall trees blocked your vision. 

Turning your head left and right, you tried to figure out where he could have gone off too, but the answer was given to you. 

“Hey there sweetheart.” You whipped your body around to the direction of the voice, and sure enough, it was him.

“You must have thought you were being real clever weren't you?” He said smiling, slowly walking towards you. “I have to admit, I’m impressed, you hid yourself better than I thought you could, but I’ve been around long enough to know when someone has eyes on me.” 

Your cheast started to heave up and down, there was not a single word you could think of to say. 

“You really believed that a lil’ mortal like you could get away with spying on someone of my kind.” He began to laugh, the idea of it so ridiculously impossible it was funny. 

“Now, enough chit chat.” Instantly, he moved towards you with the unhuman speed you saw yesterday. You stumbled till your back hit a tree, his face now mere inches away from yours. 

“Tell me, did you find what you were looking for?” Your eyes widened and your body began to tremble in fear. How stupid could you be to purposely seek out one of the most dangerous creatures in all of Delta folklore? You let your ego blind you to the reality of the situation, and now your life, for all you knew, was in the hands of the man right in front of you. 

“I-“ You began, still not knowing how to answer the question. The man innocently tilted his head to the side, waiting for your response. 

“Please. Don’t hurt me.” Tears started to brew from the corner of your eye. “I promise I won’t come back, I won’t tell anyone.” You begged.

“But how can I believe you sweetheart?” He said in a tone so understanding that if it hadn’t been for the situation at hand you would have taken him for a gentlemen. "If there is one thing you have shown me these past few days is that you run into mischief head first, and I am not about to have some girl ruin my peace.” His fingers went to gently stroke the side of your face. 

“Don’t kill me.” You said as a rather pathetic last ditch effort to save your life.

“Kill you? A sweet thing like yourself?” He placed the palms of his hands against the tree, caging you in, allowing no chance to escape. 

"Now I may be a monster but I don’t just go around killing nice young ladies, espeically ones as beautiful as you.” His hand dropped down to around your neck, causing you to breathe in sharply. 

“No, I have a much better use for you.” It was impossible to not hear the eagerness slipping from his tone. 

His eyes trailed to your mouth, and a moment later, his lips were on yours. 

The sensation was more gentle than you were expecting, but things escalated in an instant. 

His body was completely against yours. His other hand pulled at your waist to bring you in closer while the hand around your neck started to squeeze. Your body squirmed, trying its best to break free from his clutches, but it only seemed to make him grab onto you tighter. 

“What’s the matter?” He said finally after ending the kiss. “You finally got what you wanted and now you want to run away?” The tears contined to stream down your face as you agonized over your own stupidity. 

“Don’t you worry, I will make sure you get exactly what you came here for.” 

***

You woke up in a daze, head pounding. The last thing you remembered was being in the forest, him kissing you, and then everything going dark. 

Looking around at your surroundings, it was made clear that you were inside the cabin, laying on a double bed. When you tried to rise, you found that you couldn’t, as your wrists were tied with rope to the bed frame, allowing your little mobility. 

That wasn’t the only disconfort. To your horror, you felt your panties were completely gone, your dress’s fabric was the only thing hugging your bare ass.  

“Look who’s awake? I was wondering how long my little lady would stay asleep.” Your head turned to look at his sideways figure leaning against the door frame, thumbs stretching on the bands of your panties. 

“Don’t worry." He said looking down, smiling at the fabric in his hands. “While I do admit I couldn’t help myself initially, I promise I didn’t go too far. Well, not yet at least.” He let out a chuckle. 

“I realized I never got the chance to introduce myself. I’m Remmick.” You didn’t respond, you didn’t have the words, and even if you did,  you felt too weak to say them.

“The least you can do is tell your gracious host who you are.” He scolded. 

Your lips remaind sealed in defiance. Never being one to follow what everyone else was doing, you sure as hell weren’t going to stop now. 

Remmick’s brows furrowed and he approached you, throwing the panties to the ground in frustration. His hands made their way up to your head as he grabbed your hair tightly. “You can make this difficult, or easy, it is entirely your choice.” His voice was low and serious. Not wanting to take any chances, you stammered out a reply 

“Y/n… y/n.” His grip loosened. 

“Y/n.” He said, testing the sound out loud for himself. “Well ain’t that a pretty name.” You stared at him defiantly, not wanting to allow him to break you. Whatever was to happen, at least your digity would survive.

“I imagine these must be unpleasent for you.” Remmick motioned towards the binds. “I do hope you understand it was just a precaution. I can’t have my little y/n running away from me can I?” You cursed under your breath. How could you have allowed yourself to be so arrogant?

“Now.” He started. “You can make this easy, or hard, entirely your choice. I am going to untie you, but if you fight back, or dare try to run away, I will lock you up so tight that you won’t see the sun again. Do I make myself clear?” 

You barely nodded, looking nothing more than a twitch, but enough for your captor to understand your asnwer. 

“Good.” He took out a switchblade from his pocket and cut each rope in two swift motions. 

“Now.” Before you even had the chance to sit up, Remmick’s legs went up to the bed, thick thighs pressed tighly againt your torso as he pressed the switchblade to the side of your neck. 

You gasp at the sensation of the cool metal, while he twirls the tip blade on your skin.

“I’ve had nothing but common forest critters to feast on for the past month. The last time I had the pleasure of drinking human blood was from that boy a few towns over.” The tears started to brim once more. “C’mon, don’t cry now, if anything you should be flattered. So long without a good meal and right when one is in my clutches I’ve decided against it.” 

He continues to press the blade against you, trailing it down to where your bare skin met the edge of your dress.

“There is another thing which I have gone long without.” Remmick began to cut the fabric steadily, stopping as he reached the bottom of your breasts. “So long without that I’m starting to forget how it felt.” With a click, the blade returned to the compartment, tossing it to the floor.  

It was impossible not to notice the buldge that was begging to be released from his trousers. 

“From the moment I saw your peering eyes I longed for this.” His dark blue eyes stared down at the sight before him, hands grazing but barely touching your breast. 

“And now.” Remmick placed his hands on the mattress, brinding himself closer to your face. “It’s finally happening.” 

Without warning, he closed the gap between you two. But unlike the one in the woods, it didn’t start slow, Remmick wasted no time in thrusting his tounge in your mouth, trying to taste as much of you as he could. 

His hands started to massage your breasts though his incision, nipples hardening at the touch. 

“Oh, y/n, the things you are doing to me.” 

You heard the metallic click of a belt while Remmick pulled the strip of leather, sliding it free through the loops. 

“I may be many things, but I am not selfish.” Unexpectedly, the vampire began to rub at your clit with his thumb. A low moan left your lips. 

“That’s it sweetheart.” Two fingers inserted themselves in your folds and gradually moved in and out while your clit contuned to be rubbed.  

“See how much better it is when you make it easy for me?” You didn’t dare respond, the humiliation was already burning through your face

Once your pussy was completely damp, he removed his fingers, completely coated in your wetness. 

“Enough teasing.” Remmick unzipped his pants and finally freed his cock. 

Your eyes filled with terror at the sight. The pure thought of having that inside you sent shock waves through your body. 

“Don’t worry sweetheart, this shouldn’t hurt a bit.”

Perhaps he said to make you calm down, but it was still a lie. It did hurt. The stretch was more intense than you initially expected. Even with your soaked walls, you felt his shaft torturously move deeper inside you. 

Remmick groaned as he completely inserted himself. Once fully inside, he started to rock back and forth, testing the limits of how much your pussy could handle. 

“That’s it,” he whisphered, starting to thrust faster.

Your cunt started to throb at the penetration, but the pleasure it brought you was undeniable. 

“You have no idea how long I have been waiting for an opportunity like this. I thought I’d have to go out of my way, but I guess destiny had other plans.” He continued to slam onto your pelvis, slapping your clit by the impact, sending an extra jolt of ecstasy. 

“To be honest, I thought about drinking your blood after this, but now I’ve had a change of heart. I could go for the rest of my days with nothing but rabbits as long as I have this to come home to.” If possible, your mind paniked even more. The idea that this would become your new reality, your new life scared you to no end. Your immortal captor sensed that thought too.

“Relax sweetheart. You will be well provided for.” With that, you could feel your climax approaching. 

Remmick resumed his movements, reaching to places so deep you didn’t even know possible. 

He reached one hand to your chin to lift your head up.“Come for me y/n.” 

He didn’t have to ask twice. 

Your peak finally arrived as your folds quivered in response. 

“That’s it sweetheart.” With a final thrust, his warm cum was coating your now sore walls. 

“Is someone there?” You called out.

No responce came but the rustling sound of leaves in the wind.

Your conscience took over and you scurried off the path behind the tree to have a look anyway. There before you laid a man who seemed as if he just spent an hour in a furnace. Skin scalding and blistering.

What followed was you on autopilot. Helping him up, trying to get him to walk to your house which laid a quarter of a mile further down the road. But by the time you got home and the sun had set, the man was completely healed, not a single sign of injury.

You’ve heard stories. Every child growing up in the Delta knew the lore and stories of the things not to be meddled with. The manevolent beings that lurked in the darkness who would lead you down a path of a fall from grace.

But he was not that. Not one bit.

You sat him down on your couch and gave him water which he sipped eagarly. Standing at the end of the couch, you looked at him with curiosity. You saw the change of color in his eye, his unhuman-like healing. I was all you needed to know.

“I know what you are,” you stated. It wasn’t a threat, merely a statement.

The man looked up at you from his position on the couch. Eyes just as curious as yours.

“Then you must be mighty brave or mighty stupid if you just let me into your home.” He echoed back.

You scoffed in response. “I guess that's for you to figure out."

“And are you afraid?” The answer to anyone else in your position would have been obvious. He was deadly. A physical depiction of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. And if any of the stories you grew up with held any truth, you ought to be running for your life.

“No.”

After that first encounter, you had him stay the night. The two of you talked for hours. Learning where he came from, how he got here, what he wanted. And you shared your Delta childhood, your tedious life, what you heard about his kind.

“Can I see you again?” He asked with caution, scared of the potential answer.

You smiled softly, “Certainly.” That was the first time he kissed you, and the devil had never tasted so sweet.

***

Your life then became a series of nights. It was no longer the day that mattered. You had your mundane routine of breakfast, work, shopping, dinner, other household tasks, and then the torturous waiting. It was completely random the hour of the night he arrived. Sometimes it was the moment the sun set, others had you up just an hour away from dawn.

The lack of sleep was difficult at first but nothing you body couldn’t adjust to. Besides, the reward at the end of the wait was so sublime, you would have gladly waited hours more. His touch, his voice, his strangely soft hands on your body, how could something damned feel so right?

“I want you to be mine.” Remmick uttered. Breathy and desperate. Hands clenched in your hair like his life depended on it, your bodies covered in sweat. He had you against a wall, not even bothering to get to the bed, your dress already half unbuttoned and hair messy.

“You know I already am.” You chuckled in response.

“Y/n.” He began, already breathless. “I want you to be mine completely.” Out of his pants pocket, he took out the finest rings you have ever laid eyes on. The women in the Delta could never imagine something so grand.

You looked back at him, eyes wide, mouth half open.

“Will you have me, forever?” By then, the air has left your lungs completely.

Unable to muster the words, you kissed him fiercely. Smathing your lips together as your hands started to grab at his clothes.

Once you finally parted, Remmick spoke. “You know what it means?” You nodded. Of course you knew. It was something you have made your peace. There was no one left for you here. No life worth saving. Remmick slid the ring carefully on your finger.

“I’m ready.” You announced, massaging his neck and shoulders.

Remmick hesistated. This was a moment he has been waiting for as long as you have, but the thought of him actually doing it now was more pressure than he realized.

“Please.” You whisphered. Taking his hand into yours, you squeezed it reasurringly.

He opened his mouth, eyes glued to the soft curve of your neck.

Your breath hitched, eagarly anticipating the bite.

And then, there it was. His fangs penetrate your skin slowly and torcherously. You breathed in deeply, taking in the sensation. Nothing in all your years of living has ever hurt so good. Blood started to spill out of you and onto the (very fittingly) white dress you had downed that morning. It trickled down your neck and onto your chest, and Remmick couldn’t get enough. He knew he had to control himself, but no blood had ever tasted as magnificent as yours.

The two of you collapsed to the ground, adrenaline practically radiating off your bodies.

It didn’t take long for his own clothes to get stained as well. The blood red steadily made its way through his shirt's fabric.

It was pure ecstasy. The venom was making its way through your veins and through your body. Venom wasn’t even the right word for it. It wasn’t painful or unwilling, it was a drug, a drug you’d be high on for the rest of your existence.

After summoning up enough will power, Remmick finally pulled his fangs from your flesh.

“I want you to taste me too.” You looked at him stunned, the thought never occurred to you, but seeing as you gave yourself to him, it was only fitting for him to do the same.

You approached his neck gradually, scared, but exhilarated to taste him.

Just as he did to you, you opened your mouth and penetraded his skin.

When his blood touched your tonge, all the chocolate cakes, the pies, the roasted chickens and steamy casserols that made up your once human diet were brought to shame. Of course you have had Remmick in, well, other ways to say the least, but this, this, was something different. More personal, more intimate. Still sitting on the floor, you continued to taste him as you got up to straddle his hips, mouth still on the bite.

As much as his flavor intoxicated you, you still wanted more.

“Remmick.” You started, detatching from his skin. “I want more of you.” You immortal lover took the cue and begain to grind his hips against yours.

You tossed your head back and groaned, already feeling his buldge against your clit. Placing your arms around his neck, you brought your faces together for a fervid kiss. Remmick’s hand supported your back as he cacrefully laid you down on the wood floor. As the kiss deepened, your hands went down to unzip his pants, your cunt already aching for him.

When his cock sprang free, he made his down and up through your dress to the hem of your panties, all but tearing them off you. After casting them aside, he aligned himself with your enterance before agonizingly burrying his cock as far inside you as he could.

The stretch was intense, perhaps it was the energy between you or your recent transformation, but the feeling you were so accustomed to felt more vigorous than usual.

Remmick started to roll his hips back and forth. Torturously, removing his dick halfway out before slamming back into you. His thrusts began to speed up as his hands roamed your body from under your dress, trying to feel as much of you as he could.

Your nails dug into his back and shoulders while arching your back. The pace was unrelenting, every movement sent a firework through your body. You couldn’t remember the life you were living before, everything was dreary and grey compared to now. A life with endless possibilities, a life with no end ast all.

Remmick’s breathing deepened as he let out a heavy groan. It wasn't long before you felt your climax approaching. A steady but sure build was leisurely growing instead of you.

One look at your lover told you he wasn’t too far either.

Soon, the pressure that was growing shattered as your orgasm hit. Your pussy fluttered around him as you felt Remmicks hot stream coat your walls. He collapsed ontop of you, chest heaving up and down.

“Y/n.” He said as he stroked the side of your face with his hand. “Mine forever.” Gentle lips kissed your forehead.

You looked up and smiled at him.

***

“Do it again”! You demanded your father, who as far as you were concered, a magician. 

He chuckled to himself as he began the trick again. 

“Look at my hands.” His fingers were spread out wide while he turned his wrist around to show that there was nothing there. Then he reached behind your ear and took out a small coin. 

You clapped giddily at the site. Being just 7 it amused you to no end. 

“Give your father a break y/n”. You are going to bore him.” Your mother said, poorly suppressing a smile at the site of your glee as she placed the steaming meal in the center of the table.

“How about you help your mother with dinner?” Your father suggested. You ran over to the kitchen and carefully grabbed the plates from your mother’s hands. As you placed them in their proper position, a knock was heard at the front door. 

It was unusual. Your family’s home was at the edge of town and 50 yards deep into the forest from the main path. Most people wouldn’t find it unless they strayed. 

“Stay put.” Your father warned you as he cautiously approached the door. You ran to your mothers side, nervous at the coming of this stranger. 

When your father opened the door, a tall man with dark hair and an almost uncanny wide smile greeted him. 

“Howdy sir, I hate to intrude on this lovely night but I need someone to help crank-start my automobile. Would you be so kind as to help?” Being in a small town, almost everyone knew everybody. And even if you didn’t, you would have at least seen their face at the store or walking down the street. Even at your young age, you could pick out everyone in town from a crowd of thousands. But this was a face you have never seen before, and it unnerved you to no end. While his smile remaind, you knew in your soul that it was not true. 

“It’s just down the road, it won’t take but a few minutes of your time.” For just a split second, you could have sworn the man’s eyes flashed a dark red color. But in an instant, it returned to their original icy color.  

You wanted your father to say no, to shut the door, and turn back to you and your mother so your perfect night could continue; but kindness was always something that was preached in your household.

“It’s no problem mister.” Your father turned his head back. “I’ll be back in a moment.” He shot you and your mother a smile before leaving with the strange man, closing the door behiind him. 

“Don’t you worry baby.” Your mother said coddling you. “Your father will be right back. Now how about some dinner?” Your mother served you some chicken and beans onto your plate, but just when you were about to bite in, an ear-piercing scream came from outside followed by what sounded like when the town's stray dogs bit into a carcass. 

You and your mother’s eyes shot up from the table to the front door as the screams continued. 

“You stay right here!” Your mother demanded as she went outside.

“Mommy no!” You tried to stop her. Whatever evil was happening to your father was sure to happen to her too. 

But it was no use, she ran out. 

You ran to the wall of the door being a chair. Hugging your knees to your chest in a desperate attempt to protect yourself. 

“NO!” you heard your mother scream. Right after, the awful tearing sound continued. followed by silence. 

By this point, your cheeks are completely damp from the tears you didn’t even realize you have been flowing. Who was this man? What did he want? Why did he come to your home?

“Come out little one.” The man yelled from outside. “I saw you earlier in your mother’s arms. I know you want to join them” he said, taunting you. His voice changed, from what it was before. Some sort of accent you have never heard before. 

“Come on y/n, we both know you can’t hide in there forever.” 

Your breath got caught in your throat. He knew your name. How, you didn’t know.

“Your parents were sure kind people.” He began. “It’s a pity that it turned out to be their undoing.” Suddenly, a fight lit inside you. Your feelings of fear and sadness were firmly swept away as anger started to course through your veins. 

You shot up from your huddled position behind the chair and ran to the front door. Whoever this man is, you were going to stop him with whatever you had in you. 

After swinging the door open, you froze in your spot. The darkness made it difficult for you to make everything out, but you saw enough. The man’s eyes glowed red and his clothes were damp with what could only be blood. 

“Hello sweetheart” The man started, standing several feet from your pourch. “You can call me Remmick.” You shut the door, unable to confront the monster that stood behind it. 

“Don’t you worry sweet thing. I’ll be back for you.” 

The next morning, you discovered that your parent’s bodies were gone. Not even a strand of hair remained, leaving you with nothing but memories. 

***

The years have come and gone and now you live in the middle of town working at a local apothocary shop. You have done your besst to suppress the painful memories of that fateful night. The blood, the screams. While you couldn’t escape the Delta, you could at least forget. 

After all these year’s of waiting for Remmick to come back, you started to believe that he may have forgotten about you, and that maybe a normal life is actually possible. The thought that you will never have to encounter this devil of a man again makes you feel relieved, but also angry. That the closure, the revenge you so desperately want will never happen. 

“Hello y/n, got any cough syrups?” Thomas, one of your regular’s came in shooting you a soft smile.

“Sure thing.” You went to the back to collect the bottles. 

“Mighty warm weather we are having aren’t we.” Thomas said as you were cashing him out at the register. 

“It’s always this warm in the Delta.” You teased. “Lord knows we could use some rain. I’d do anything to cool off.” 

“Well if you need some relief from this heat, I’m more than welcome to accompany you on a night’s walk. The sun finally sets and the night air is rather refreshing.” Thomas flashed his pearly whites at you as you handed him his change. Almost every time he comes to the shop he comes up with some new scheme to ask you on a date, and while he was certainly a charmer (and not bad looking either), you couldn’t find yourself taking him up on the offer. 

“Thank you, but I think I can manage this heat just fine.” 

“Whatever you say little lady. Have a nice day.” He tipped his hat and left the store, the belle ringing merrily on his way out. 

As the day was coming to a close, you finished locking up the shop. After storing away the aliments, soaps, herbs, and medicine in all their proper place, you locked the shop door. 

“Hello miss.” The voice of a stranger startled you as you dropped your keys. 

Bending down to pick them up, the stranger beat you to it. Standing up, a man with dark hair and deep blue eyes, held the keys in his hands.

“I believe these are yours.” He said with a small grin. 

The man placed his hand on top of your palm to return the keys for you to then place in your dress pocket. 

“Thank you sir.” You responded kindly, blushing at the brief touch of contact. Being a yong lady in a small town meant that if a man had the chance to firt with you, he would. But none were certainly as good-looking as him. 

“Locking up shop all by yourself? It ain’t safe for a little lady like you to wander around after dark.” While he spoke with an air of caution, it came off more like a threat.  

You smiled at his sentiment, Living alone, you were no fool to the dangers the Delta held, but you’ve learned how to grow thick skin.

“I promise you sir, I can handle myself just fine.” You rolled your shoulders back and straightened your spine as a puny attempt to show you are stronger than you look. 

“Oh I have no doubt about that.” The man said, taking a few steps forward. 

You stood firm in your ground as he approached you. Maybe you would’ve backed down before, but there was something in the air that night that told you to stay against your better judgement. He soon stood close enought in front of you that if you reached your arm out you could touch his chest.

“Is there something I can help you with, mister?” You uttered carefully, daring yourself to take another step closer. He was attractive, no doubt about it, but it was often the things most gratifying to the eye that ended up being the most dangerous. Even so, your practical side wasn’t the one pulling the ropes. 

“Help me?” He spoke, brows raised. “A tempting offer, but I think I’m here to help you.” His voice became low and daring. “A lady like you shouldn’t be out all by herself, you never know what you may run into in the Delta.” 

“Believe me sir, no one knows that better than me.”

“Aren’t you a firey one.” He said while cocking his head to the side. “May I have the pleasure to escort you home?” You considered his offer. Any other young woman would have sprung at the chance for a nighttime stoll with a handsome mysterious stranger. However, you didn’t want to give him the satisfaction. 

“I think I can handle myself just fine.” Spoken firmly and final. 

“Then I hope you’ll grace me with your presence some other night.”

“Maybe.” You cast your eyes down playfully, unresisting a smirk. “Only if the Delta’s dangers don't get to me first”. 

The man let out a short laugh at your cheeky response. “Believe me miss, I wouldn’t let them get to you even if they tried.” The reply was strange, nevertheless, you let it pass.

“And does this gentleman have a name?” You asked, wanting to leave with at least something to remember him by. 

“Let’s not be hasty now. All good things come with time.” Even more odd. 

Any girl growing up in these parts knew when something, or someone was trouble. Even so, like a moth to a flame, you didn’t turn away. 

“Well you have a good night mister. You know where to find me if you need anything .” You turned on your heel and strod off. 

“Don’t you worry miss, you already gave me everything I need.” You turned around to respond, but the stranger was nowhere to be seen. 

Odd.

Your walk home faced no difficulties. Nonetheless, you kept turning your head every minute, unable to shake the feeling you were being followed. 

***

The next day came and went with no signs of the mystery man from before. As did the next day, and the day after that. Eventually, it got to a point where you started to believe that your loneliness… and your desire, was starting to make you hallucinate. 

Just when you thought that the stranger was nothing more than a figment of your imagination, you ran into him once more. 

“Well if it isn't my pretty little lady.” You were on your way home from work, just reaching the town's edge. 

The man’s steps were loose and unhurried, salvaging the encounter. 

“Good evening sir.” You answered politely. “I take it everything is alright with you?”

“Oh everything just became perfect right about now.” The stranger has haunted your thoughts for long enough, you deemed. It’s about time for your mind to be brought to ease. 

“You aren’t from the Delta are you?” you challenged. 

“What gave it away?”

“You get used to seeing the same faces after a while down in these parts. So where are you from.”

“A place far more ancient than you can imagine.” You scoffed at the answer. Who did this man think he was? This was not your first time dealing with disagreeable folk, and certainly not you last.

Your interrogation continued, “And what brings you to this part of the country?” The question brought a smile to his face. You knew you were dancing with the devil, but at this point in this deadly waltz, you had no longing to stop. 

“I guess you could call it unfinished business.” The answer didn’t sit right with you one bit. 

“And what would that be?” You’ve seen his expression before when you encountered hunters in the forest, one who’s prey fell right in their trap.

“Many years ago I came across this wee little thing in the woods. Before, I wanted her for… well let’s just say other purposes. But now, after seeing her again, I’ve changed my mind. I want her for something completely different.” His answer sent a chill up your spine. 

He started to approach you slowly. “Come on y/n, don’t you remember me at all?” Your heart rate spiked up and your breaths became frantic. 

“No.” It came out barely about a whisper. The memories of that fateful night, the one you have tried so desperately to forget started to break its way back in. 

“Don’t worry, I don’t want to hurt you, at least permanently.” He laughed at his own joke. “All these years, and I couldn’t have imagined the pretty thing you would turn into.” And then, there it was, the flash of red. As he came closer, your survival instincts finally kicked in and you ran as fast as your legs could take you. 

Your house wasn't too far, but you have never been much of a runner, and who knows what he, what Remmick, is capable of.

“There is no point in making this hard.” You heard him say behind you, speaking like a parent trying to make a stubborn child eat their veggies. 

You didn’t dare to look back. All you could think of was getting home. And soon enough, there it was, your four walled sanctuary. 

By some miracle, you made it past the pourch and into the home, placing you back against the wall of the door. You waited a moment to let your breathing die down. But your moment of relief only lasted just that.

“You can pretend all you want, but I could smell how badly you want it.” His southern facade has vanished into that foreign sound you heard before. “It is just in your luck that I can give it to you.”

You paid his words no mind. Shutting your eyes tight, you prayed to whatever God there was to make this devil disappear. 

“I have to say, I feel a little dissapointed. Before you were a child, but I guess you were too weak then and too weak now.” And just like that, your eyes shot open. The fear inside you was replaced with pure rage. You knew enough folklore to know what he was, know his weakness. Grabing the silver kitchen knife, you ran outside screaming. 

Remmick didn’t stand too far from the enterance of your house, and in an instant, you stabbed the knife to the upper left side of his chest. You stepped back after your attack, expecting this to be the end of it.

All it seemed to do was irritate him. 

After he stumnled a few steps back, he pulled the knife slowly out of his torso and threw it aside. 

“I knew you were going to take some convincing but you sure do know how to put up a good fight.” He sounded almost amused. 

You stood paralyzed. Your only weapon now proving useless. In a flash, Remmick ran towards you, hand around your throat as the other pulled you close to him.

You let out a scream before he placed his hand over your mouth

“Shhh, we both know that won’t save you now.” Your eyes started to brim with tears. Whatever dark plan he has instored for you couldn’t be good. 

“There is no need to be scared. I’m about to give you everything you could ever want.” Your fear turned into confusion, and soon enough, his lips were on yours. He kissed with longing, with need. Like it was something he was waiting to do for a very, very long time. For all you knew he was. 

As the kiss deepened, he started to touch you in an area that in these parts was reserved for your husband, certainly not him. You couldn’t resist letting out a soft moan. It was hard to remeber the last time you have gotten such pleasure. 

“There we go.” Remmick whisphered in your ear. Slowly, his mouth widened to reveal his fangs. Once your eyes opened, you remembered exactly what you were doing, and exactly who it was with. 

You pushed yourself out of his grasp. “GET AWAY FROM ME!” You fell to the ground, picking up the discared kitchen knife and holding it in boith hands, pointing it towards him.

Remmick let out an exasperated sigh. "Just when I thought I had you, you had to act up.” 

Your hands trembled while clutching the knife. He won’t get me. He won’t. 

The devil in disguise took four long strides towards you before standing over you looking like he just caught your hand in the cookie jar. 

He crouched down slowly, taking the knife from your grasp steadily as you sat powerless to fight. 

He ran his finger up and down against your cheek. For a beginning as ancient as him, his touch was softer than expected. 

“You’re perfect.” He stated. 

Just like that, not wasting a moment of time, his fangs pierced their way into your neck. 

You let out a scream, but soon, the initial pain started to fade, and in its place was something wonderful, something blisful. 

After Remmick pulled away, you looked at him and felt everything he was feeling. His love, his hurt, his desire. 

“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” You smiled foolishly at him. How could you have been so disagreeable before, when right here, right now, was the man who would give you everything.

“Tell me you are joking?” It was a warm spring day, Summer just on the horizon, while crouching down, you tending to your plants and flowers in the palace garden, your father shot down from the heaven’s in a bolt of lightning startling you. 

“I am afraid I am not. Although I cannot imagine why such news would upset you. Being the bride to one of the most powerful men in all of the Empire.” Your father explained, lecturing you as if you were a child.

“You don’t know Emperor Geta the way I do.” You replied grimly, focusing again at the flora in front of you.

Your contact with the infamous red haired tyrant and his brother has been limited. The few times you were in his vicinity were not particularly found moments. Most of which included the terrible Gladiator tournaments. Spectacles of senseless violence in your opinion. The Emperors would shout and scream and whatever poor souls were sent to fight to the death. The knowledge that he took enjoyment from such brutality gave you everything you needed to know about him. 

What you didn’t know however, was that during these games, the Emperor’s eyes would often wander to search for you in the crowd. It was not a particularly difficult task. You quite literally shined out amongst the mortal spectators, a sight more pleasing than the gory entertainment provided.

During one particular game, as your eyes scanned the box of senators and generals, attempting to distract yourself from the bloody battles below, your vision locked with him. He, like all men who were fortunate enough to gaze upon you, became mesmerized. Your soft skin, and graceful body made Geta dig his nails in the arms of his regal chair at his desire to have you. 

“The Emperor has built me a new temple and has been consistently leaving offerings, being my most faithly worshiper, and in return I have decided to gift him the best thing a God can offer a mortal.”

At this, you shot up from your crouched position. “I am not a present to be offered.” You declared. “I don’t care if he built you a million temples, I would never marry such a man.” Anyone would be crazy to challenge a proclamation from a God, much less the king of them all. But you weren’t just anyone. Divine blood ran through your veins, and your fate would not be bound to a man as sadistic as him. 

“You forget that you don’t have a say in this matter. I can think of worse lives than one as the empress of Rome.” 

“Please.” Your anger had turned to desperation. “I am sure there are other ways to bless and reward Emperor Geta.” 

Your father slowly started walking towards you as he spoke. “I have already promised the Emperor that you are to be his. And I am not one to turn back on an oath.” 

You have never experienced such anger. Promising such a thing before even consulting with you. But a promise from God was as good as done. 

“You need not fret about Geta. He wouldn’t dare hurt a daughter of Jupiter.” You scoffed. Of course your safety was in good hands, but that meant nothing for your happiness. 

“I do hope your sentiment changes. I heard that the wedding is to be the grandest Rome has ever seen.” Another woman would have been bouncing up and down from glee. What you would give to trade places with her. 

“You are to be formally presented to the Emperor tonight. Do make a good impression.” It was the last words your father spoke before a flash of lightning whisked him away to the heavens, leaving you and your racing thoughts alone. 

***

You were escorted by your mother to the main hall where your husband-to-be stood there waiting. Upon hearing the news of your engagement, one might have thought it would be her to marry the emperor. 

“To think that my own girl will soon be the empress of Rome.” She pressed her hand to her heart at the sentiment. “Gods know you were meant for such a life.” 

Your heart was pounding as you made your way to the thrones. Eyes fighting back tears as your destiny awaits you. 

“Emperors.” Your mother began, “may I present my daughter, y/n.” She practically shoved you in front of her, placing you front and center before the twin tyrants. 

“Imperators.” You bowed your head softly at a feeble attempt to humble yourself. 

Geta immediately shot up from his seat to approach you. Eager to get his hands on his eventual wife. 

Taking several paces forward, you and the emperor’s face stood mere inches away from yours as his eyes scanned your face and body, relishing the sight in front of him. 

“Oh yes, she will do quite nicely.” He uttered, sending a nervous chill up your spine. “Your father spoke far too little of how beautiful you are. But there are not enough offerings in the world to thank Jupiter for such a bride. I certainly look forward to having you by my side y/n.” His brown eyes left one more piercing gaze into yours before turning away with the rest of his advisors and senators. 

You let your eyes close as you took a deep breath trying to calm your nerves. 

He wouldn’t dare hurt me. You reminded yourself. You are a daughter of Jupiter, you are part God, there is no future that awaits you that you cannot handle.

***

Everything happened so fast. Within two days, your once peaceful life had turned to non stop preparations for the upcoming nuptials. 

Even you had to admit, the dress given to you was lovely. Chosen by Geta himself, the handmaiden proclaimed as she adorned you in luxurious fabrics and gold. 

You hardly recognized your reflection staring back at you in the mirror. Despite you heritage, you never felt particularly better or more deserving than any other young Roman women. Or your life would be anything too out of the ordinary for a high born.

Looking back now, what a fool you have been. Your whole life, you have been a pawn in-waiting for the fastest man who had the resources to claim a divine bride. And who other than one of the emperors himself. 

The next thing you knew, vows were spoken, music was playing, and every person around you was smiling and laughing, drunk off the finest wines in the Empire. 

“You have hardly touched your food empress.” Geta spoke, drawing attention to the final word of his sentence. 

“I am not a hungry imperator.” You responded, voice sounding as neutral as possible. 

“We are married now, love. Geta will suffice.” 

Unexpectedly. He placed his ringed hand on top of yours. “I do hope that your mother prepared you well for what to expect as a new wife.”

You shuddered as your muscles clenched. Of course you knew, your mother, along with the other ladies at court well explained to you what happens on a wedding night. But with the unexpectedness of it all and the hectic planning, the thought barely crossed your mind. 

Turning to face him finally, you managed to croak out a response. “I am aware.”  

“Splendid.” Geta squeezed your hand fervently. “I hope you know how lucky I am to have you as a bride.” 

“Why me?” You blurted out. It was impossible to keep the question inside of you. “You could have had anyone. Someone to strengthen the growth of the Empire. Just because of my blood does not mean I will serve any use to you or Rome.” Your new husband smirked arrogantly. 

“Our soldiers and generals are stronger than you think. I didn’t marry you for the sake of the Empire. We are already unstoppable. The second I laid my eyes on you in the Colosseum I knew I had to have you. Why do you think I built that damn temple in the first place? For fun?” Your breath got caught in your throat. 

“Caracalla is throwing a fit at the fact that I get to have a divine bride.” He laughed, clearly amused with himself. 

“To think that you are now all mine.” Before you knew it, he smashed his warm lips onto yours in a feaverent kiss.  

“Enjoy the festivities my love.” He broke off the contact suddenly leaving you gasping in shock before turning to you one last time. “I promise what awaits you tonight will be even better.” 

***

It was a warm night, but that did nothing to stop your chills. The party was still in full swing in the halls of the palace, but Geta was growing impatient to have you all to himself, alone. 

You looked out the window and onto the streets. What you would give to be just an ordinary girl, but ordinary was never meant for you. 

“Come here my love.” Geta grabbed your hand and made you face towards him. Like before, he pulled you in for another kiss, this one deeper, more intense, more needy. 

As the kiss continued, Geta started to slowly strip away your clothes. His hands tugged at the ropes holding up your gown and it fell to your feet, leaving you completely exposed.

Once naked, he placed his hand on the back of your neck, lightly squeezing it. “All mine.” His gaze continued to relish the sight of you.  

“Please.” You began. What you were pleading for, you didn’t know, but from what you have seen of the emperor, it was anyone’s guess what he was capable of. 

“Don’t worry, empress, I will be gentle.” guiding you towards the bed, you laid down on the soft mattress, eyes shut so tight you felt they might never open. Perhaps you would be able to find some pleasure in this. From the few whispers you were able to snatch, the ladies of the palace spoke of great satisfaction and delight of their intimate moments with lovers and husbands. While the conditions are not to your liking, maybe there is something to be enjoyed. 

At the foot of the bed, you could hear Geta’s heavy fabrics drop to the ground. A second later, he started climbing on top of you. 

“There is no need to worry.” He whispered in your ear. “You are half god after all, I have every intention of treating you as such.” 

His hands made their way down as his thumb started rubbing your clit gently. 

A moan escaped your lips at the sensation. For the first time this night, your body started to relax, taking in the pleasurable sensation as your new husband had his way with you. 

He soon stopped and his fingers traveled lower, towards your entrance as he slid a finger in and out tortuously. 

“Wet already are we?” His question needed no response. Geta was clearly amused at his once reluctant bride now softly moaning right under him. 

Once you finally felt adjusted, he slid a second finger in without warning, stretching you out even more as his pace continued while sounds of pleasure left your mouth. It felt like an eternity when he finally stopped.

“I’ve waited long enough to have you, I believe my patience has finally run out."

You dared to open your eyes and swallowed at the sight of his erect manhood, not knowing if your body was capable of consuming such a thing. 

Before you had any time to prepare yourself, Geta already started making his way inside of you. 

In one excruciatingly slow motion, the flaming haired emperor stretched you out to the limit as you arched your back. 

Your eyes clenched shut again, trying to adjust to his size. His thrusts were slow, but the pain slowly faded away, replaced by a building pressuring in your sensitive area. 

The thrusts started to pick up pace as you let out another groan. Soon, you felt his fingers touch your chin and lift it upwards.

“Look at me y/n.” He pleaded.

Your eyelids softened, but you did not fully open them, still unwilling to look at Geta in the eyes. 

“Please.” His voice now desperate. Gone was the sadistic emperor you once knew. 

At that, you finally opened your eyes and stared into his dark orbs. His movements became more wild, and the building pressure inside of you reached its climax as you released a sob of relief. 

Geta followed soon after, collapsing on top of you as warm fluids filled your insides. 

You painted, trying to come down from the incredible high you just experienced.