i like vampires

He could explain it away as bloodlust, being drunk, or high. But really, he was just being stupid.

You had been in another state, visiting family. A vampire is still a man with needs, right?

A night out with the boys had gotten out of hand. One thing led to another and here he was, in bed with some vacationer from the boardwalk.

Even in his state, he knew it was wrong. The boys did too.

“What about your girl?” Marko would ask, although a coy smile never left his lips.

“Outta town. She won’t know.” Dwayne would respond, slurring his words.

He didn’t hear you at first, making your way through the entrance of the cave to surprise your boyfriend with the fact that you had come home early.

When you had made it into the room he was in, your breath hitched. You stayed there for a moment, trying to make sense of what you were looking at.

Your sweet boyfriend, in bed with another woman?

Your boyfriend who had been trying to turn you into a vampire so the two of you could “be together forever” in his words, in the arms of some other girl.

He didn’t hear you until a sob tore through your throat, causing him to scramble to pull away from the mystery woman.

“Baby, this is nothing!” He would try to explain, his voice high pitched in a mixture of shock and shame.

You wouldn’t have it though, already turning to run out of the cave and away from the betrayal.

After that, he felt nothing but shame and loss.

The boys would try to make him feel better in your absence, but he couldn’t stop feeling the pit in his stomach.

He’d fucked up, and he knew it.

In an attempt to win you back, he began leaving gifts at your windowsill.

Jewelry he’d seen you eyeing on dates, apologetic notes, your favourite candy, and handmade leather bracelets he’d make in the cave.

His heart would break even more if he saw you throwing any of these gifts out.

He’d follow you if you went out at night. He was aware that it was the behaviour of a stalker, but he needed to keep you safe, even if he couldn’t be with you.

On a night out with your friends, he’d noticed you trying to win a large teddy bear in a carnival game. He saw the disappointment on your face when the rigged game hadn’t gone your way.

That night, when you entered your bedroom; the teddy bear was on your bed with a note.

“I’m sorry, baby. Please talk to me. I regret it so much. You’re the only one for me, I love you.” It would read.

He’d get Paul to help him make mixtapes full of love songs, as well. When you would go to turn on your cassette player, you’d notice that the tape you had previously put on had been replaced with his work.

When you would finally go to the cave to talk to him; to tell him to fuck off, he would all but drop to his knees.

His voice would break as he begged you to come back to him, to let him work for your forgiveness.

If you decided to give him another chance, he would give you the world. He would never stop with the gifts, tell you he loved you every day, and listen to every ground rule and boundary you’d set.

If you did not take him back, the watching and gifts would never stop.

He would continue this behaviour as he watched you move on, age, get married to another man, have children, grandchildren, and eventually die of old age.

⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ

The ‘party’ was interesting. Dwayne had led me to the couch, opting to sit beside Marko. He patted the seat next to him, silently urging me to sit next to him. Who would I be to deny him? Upon being seated, Dwayne put his arm around me, pulling me closer. I obliged, leaning my head on his shoulder. I noted the heat rising in my face, the embarrassment of being in such close contact in front of his ‘brothers’ was unavoidable.

I looked at Michael, still hesitantly standing in the entrance to the ‘room.’

“Mikey, I think it’ll be okay.” I teased as I noticed his unease.

“Yeah, ‘Mikey’, it’s okay.” Marko piped, emphasis on the nickname.

“Come join us, ‘Mikey.’” Paul added, his tone the same as Marko’s.

I felt the rumble of Dwayne’s chest as he laughed.

“See, Michael, everyone wants you here.” David added, his tone shifting between dead serious and sarcastic. Something about his voice told me that he wasn’t easy to read.

Michael slowly moved throughout the room, each step clouded in apprehension. He opted to sit on the arm of the couch, next to me.

From behind the couch, Paul lit another joint. My eyes inadvertently shifted towards the drug, something that he clearly noticed as he passed it to me.

This wasn’t my first time by any means. Back in my hometown, I would often partake in smoke circles and hotboxes at parties. But this felt different. Back home, I knew those people, I trusted them. Here, I only knew two out of five, and I was still weary of Dwayne.

“Come on, baby, it’s not gonna bite.” Paul teased at the sight of my apprehension.

Dwayne shot a pointed glare at Paul at the utterance of ‘baby’ directed towards me.

“You don’t have to.” Michael stated, quietly urging me to stay sober for whatever was to come.

I thought for a second before taking a hit. I had been nervous; this would help me loosen up, I’d decided. Paul grinned as I took another before passing it back to him.

“What about Mikey?” Paul asked, his tone teasing as Michael shifted in unease.

I knew Michael smoked, he and I had engaged on occasion alongside Star. He surprised me, however, as he himself took a hit. I had figured he would stay sober, noting how hesitant he had been to even join. I looked at him, eyes already glazed over but there was a twinge of shock in my expression. He simply shrugged and passed the joint over me to Dwayne.

As the joint continued to make its rounds, I would take hits here and there. As my high began to escalate, I felt myself melting into Dwayne which he welcomed by holding me closer. My insides began to feel fuzzy and the Billy Idol that blared throughout the cave started to sound like heaven’s harps in my inebriated ears.

David, Marko, and Paul began teasing Michael; something I would have normally protested. However, in my current state, I could only laugh as they made deliberate moves to scare him. They gave him rice, which they somehow convinced him were maggots. They then somehow convinced him that the noodles were worms. This puzzled me, but I figured he must’ve taken more of the joint than he should’ve.

“How you feeling?” Dwayne interrupted my thoughts as he leaned down to whisper the question in my ear, landing a soft kiss on my temple.

“I’m great.” I tried to say, but it came out as more of a whisper. I could feel my lips spread into a toothy, dumb grin. Dwayne chuckled at the sight.

“So pretty.” He mumbled, brushing some of my hair out of my face.

I shifted my eyes away from his gaze, a blush grazing my cheeks as my grin grew wider.

“Shut up.” I giggled, “but seriously keep complimenting me.” I teased further.

“Something tells me you hear that a lot.” He grinned.

“Sometimes. But it sounds better when you say it.” I smirked, allowing the high to take me fully as I flirted.

He was about to reply when David spoke.

“I think they’re ready for a drink. Marko?”

“Definitely ready. What do you think, Paul?” Marko replied, a coy smile grazing his lips.

“Oh yeah!” Paul replied with a cheer.

“Go get us a drink, Marko.” David stated — more like ordered.

Dwayne remained silent, his gaze fixated on me as I looked at him with a puzzled expression.

“What is he getting that it needs its own announcement?” My eyebrow quirked up as I let out a soft chuckle.

“It’s like wine, I guess. You don’t have to drink it, but I think you’ll like it.” He replied, his expression unreadable. He looked almost nervous? But excited at the same time?

I broke our gaze to look at Michael, who seemed to be in the same state I was.

“You gonna drink?” I asked, still unsure of what my decision was going to be.

Being high was one thing, it’d surely fade at a decent time. But if I got drunk, there was no way I’d be able to drive my bike home that night. Staying with Dwayne was tempting, but his brothers made me nervous and my Mother would surely get concerned.

“I shouldn’t,” Michael replied, “I wanna try to see Star tonight still, and I wanna make sure I can get you home.”

I nodded, satisfied with his answer. I shifted my gaze back to Dwayne, who hadn’t stopped looking at me.

“What are you thinking about?” I asked, noting that his expression was still one I couldn’t read.

“Just you. And me. And how I’m happy you’re here.” He replied, apparently not one for a drawn out explanation.

Just then, Marko appeared, bottle in hand. The bottle seemed older than we were; encrusted with gemstones and silver. The liquid sloshing inside the bottle was a deep scarlet. The bottle appeared to be half drank and the clouding on the inside told me that it had been refilled on multiple occasions. I couldn’t help but feel drawn towards the concept of drinking it, and the implication that came with it. If I drank this, I would be giving in to the night; giving in to Dwayne. The thought sent shivers down my spine.

Marko handed the bottle to David, who took a swig with a sigh. His face twitched as though he was a dying man and this drink was the life saving elixir. As he handed the bottle to Paul, Paul drank it with a similar expression followed by a loud ‘WOO!’ Paul then handed the bottle to me, causing me to hesitate. I stared through the bottle’s opening at the liquid it contained. It was just wine, right? It wouldn’t cause me any harm to have a little bit. I liked wine, and I was partial towards red — I would enjoy this.

“You don’t have to.” Dwayne reiterated.

I scoffed slightly. Such theatrics for a damn vintage wine. I took a large swig.

“Damn.” I mumbled as the bottle left my lips, some of the wine dripping down.

It was like nothing I had ever tasted. It was thicker, sweeter, and had notes that I couldn’t recognize. As it dripped down my throat I felt it warming my insides. I felt light. In combination with the weed, I felt as though the world around me was fading and I was left with pure, unfiltered joy.

Dwayne took the bottle from me, taking a drink himself before offering it to Michael.

“Next time.” Michael stated in response.

“C’mon, Mikey. It’s just wine, best vintage in town.” David piped up, leaning forward in his ‘throne.’

“It is good, Mike.” I muttered, my gaze still entangled with Dwayne’s.

I didn’t mean to pressure him, I really didn’t. The combination of weed and wine had taken my inhibitions and made me feel as though I was floating — my mouth spoke before I could stop it.

“Yeah, ‘Mike’, it’s good!” Marko chuckled.

“Join us, Michael.” David stated, nearly ordered; his blue eyes fixated on Michael.

This was followed by an eruption of cheers and chants of Michael’s name followed by ‘join us!’ Dwayne began laughing, which I soon followed in suit. I did want my best friend to feel as good as I had in that moment, was that so wrong?

This seemed to break Michael as he took a swig.

“Just a little.” He mumbled before handing the bottle back to David.

We all cheered as he gave in to the night, immediately growing more relaxed.

The bottle made its rounds again, eventually falling back into my hands. I took another sip, letting it lull me into further bliss. Some of the liquid dribbled onto my chin, causing Dwayne to move his hand to my face; thumb collecting the waste. He went to pull his hand away, but I stopped him with my hands on his wrist. I looked up at him with glazed over eyes and took his thumb into my mouth, sucking the liquid off. I let the moment linger for a second, softly swirling my tongue around before releasing him. He cursed in response, his eyes darkening at the sight.

“Don’t start something you can’t finish.” He warned as I sat up, shifting so that I was sitting in his lap.

“I have every intention of finishing this.” I whispered in his ear.

Whatever was in that drink had me feeling bold. And horny. This caused me to forget that his brothers, and my best friend were currently in the same room as us. Apparently, he did as well. In a moment, his lips captured mine in a deep kiss. I heard myself moan into the kiss as I felt his tongue touch mine. He lifted me slightly, causing me to straddle his lap as one of his hands tangled themselves into my hair while the other rested on my lower back. The whole thing felt so passionate, like I had known him for years. Like we had done this before.

Our moment was cut short by a drawn out whistle, coming from Paul’s direction.

“Dwayne, either get a room or share!” Marko teased, causing Dwayne to glare at him. If I wasn’t so messed up, I would’ve sworn I heard him utter ‘mine.’

Michael said my name, his voice a combination of gentle, forewarning, and a little bit proud. I turned to look at him, but Dwayne’s grip remained strong in order to keep me close.

Before I could say anything, David spoke.

“How about we leave the lovers to it, and take Michael out for a good time?” He smirked as Paul and Marko cheered at the idea.

“I’m not just gonna leave her here.” Michael reminded them, his protectiveness still showing itself despite his inebriation.

“I’ll be okay, Mike. You can pick me up after?” I urged, half worried about what the boys would do with him, but mostly wanting alone time with Dwayne.

“You sure?” Michael asked, looking between Dwayne and I.

“I’m sure.” My eyes shifted to Dwayne, then back to him, silently pleading with him to give us some time.

Michael chuckled slightly at the implication.

“Fine. But I promise I’m getting you home tonight. You’re not staying here.” He warned as he and the boys stood to leave the cave.

“Yes, Dad!” I teased, causing Michael to roll his eyes.

The four boys left, shooting knowing looks at Dwayne and I. David even sent a teasing ‘have fun you two!’ our way.

As we were sure that the coast was clear, we immediately resumed our kiss. His tongue snaked its way back into my mouth, causing him to groan into the kiss. His hand moved from my lower back to grab my ass through my shorts as I began to move my hips to grind down on him. He removed his lips from mine, travelling down my neck as he left kisses and marks on my skin.

“So fucking beautiful. Needed you since the first time I saw you.” He groaned before attaching his lips to my collarbone in a way that would, no doubt leave a bruise.

I leaned back for a moment, peeling my shirt over my head; revealing the black lace bra I had underneath.

“Fuck. Should’ve fucked you last night. Was trying to be respectful.” He said, his words breathless.

He reached to palm my breasts through my bra, nearly squeezing hard enough to hurt. He leaned down and began sucking and kissing the space over the cups of my bra, causing me to throw my head back with a moan. He caught the back of my head, forcing it forward, making me gasp.

“Eyes on me.” He commanded as he reached behind me to undo my bra.

I let it fall off my shoulders before he discarded it somewhere on the floor. He then took my tits into his hands, squeezing them together before taking one of my nipples into his mouth. It took everything in my power to follow his demand and keep my eyes on him as soft moans left my mouth.

“Fucking need you so bad, Dwayne.” I breathed out, my hips grinding on his with more vigour.

He stopped his ministrations, taking my face in his hands and looking at me with dark eyes.

“You’re gonna get me, baby. You’re going to take everything I give to you, got it?” He stated through gritted teeth.

I nodded enthusiastically, a response that clearly wasn’t good enough as he reached around to land a harsh smack on my ass.

“Use your words, princess.” He urged as he gently rubbed the offended area.

“Yes, I’ll take everything. I’ll do anything. Please, Dwayne.” I whined, desperation coating my voice with every syllable.

“Fuck,” he cursed, “I love how you beg. So perfect. All mine.”

Before I could respond, I was in the air; his strong arms wrapped around me. He carried me to another makeshift ‘room’, placing me onto a bed that was shockingly soft. Surrounded by lit candles and soft draping, I couldn’t help but to feel like I genuinely was in a romance novel with the main character standing over me with hunger in his eyes. He dropped to his knees, kissing my ankle before taking off my shoes then kissing his way up my legs to my inner thighs.

“Fucking perfect, gonna ruin you.” He muttered into my thigh.

“Please, Dwayne.” I pleaded, leaning back on my elbows.

“Please what? Words, baby.” He rebutted, looking up at me from between my legs.

“Need you.” I begged, the concept of full sentences being foreign to me in my inebriated and heated state.

“What do you need?” He teased, rubbing my inner thighs.

“Touch me, fuck me, anything please!” I damn near shed a tear as I grew more desperate.

He chuckled, standing up to undo his belt and pants.

“Anything? Get up on your knees, baby.” He ordered, his voice carrying the same twinge of desperation as mine.

I scrambled to do as he asked, excited to take anything he had to give me. He pulled his cock out, and the mere sight of it had my mouth watering. He was longer and thicker than I had been used to and I wondered how he was going to fit — but I’d always loved a challenge.

“You gonna suck it like a good girl, baby?” He asked as I sat forward, ready to do as he asked.

“Yes, please.” I said as I nearly lunged forward to take him into my mouth.

“So eager.” He chuckled as I took his head into my mouth.

The chuckle quickly turned into a breathy groan as I licked around the tip before moving down the shaft. As I went to take the head back into my mouth, he gripped my hair.

“Don’t be a fucking tease.” He uttered, holding my head in place by my hair.

I whined around his length, trying to take more of him into my mouth. My attempts were put to a swift halt as he gripped my hair tighter. The sensation caused me to let out a guttural moan.

“You like that, baby? Gonna let me fuck your mouth like a good girl?” He smirked down at me.

I let out a garbled ‘mhm’ as best as I could with him sitting in my mouth. He followed my consent by easing his cock into my mouth, causing me to choke as it hit the back of my throat.

“Relax, just like that.” He groaned as I tried to breathe through my nose.

He began moving, thrusting in and out of my throat. I put my hands on his thighs to stabilize myself. He gripped my hair tighter as he continued to use my mouth, throwing his head back with a loud groan.

“Such a good girl, holy shit.” He muttered mindlessly.

As his thrusts became less rhythmic and more unstable, I became excited at the thought of swallowing his seed. Of making him cum with just my mouth. My fantasies were brought to a swift death as he pulled out of my mouth. I fell forward, gasping for air before looking up at him, puzzled.

“Not yet, beautiful. Wanna cum in you.” He stated, panting softly from the previous acts.

He leaned down, helping me to my feet and planting a soft kiss on my forehead.

“Doing so good for me, baby.” He praised, running his fingers through my hair to soothe the residual pain of his former grip.

“Can you please fuck me now?” I pleaded, looking up at him through hooded eyes.

He chuckled, planting a kiss to my lips before gently pushing me back onto the bed. He then got to work unbuttoning my shorts. I lifted my hips to help him pull them down, along with my panties. I laid before him, completely bare. He took a moment to take a mental picture of me, staring with awestruck eyes.

“So. Fucking. Beautiful.” He breathed out.

“Please fuck me, Dwayne.” I begged once more, the ache between my legs begging for relief.

“You beg so good. Such a good girl.” He praised, moving onto the bed on top of me.

He leaned down to kiss me, his fingers moving between my legs. He groaned into my mouth, feeling how wet I was as his fingers prodded my entrance.

“So wet, all for me?” He asked as I nodded frantically.

He thrusted two fingers into me, immediately curling them into that sweet spot that sent shivers down my spine. I choked out a moan as his thumb reached up to rub my clit.

“Please, Dwayne.” I moaned out, my back arching off of the bed.

“Shh. Let me take care of you, baby.” He replied, thrusting his fingers in and out of me.

His ministrations on my clit in combination with the thrusts of his fingers grew faster as I felt fireworks begin to form in my stomach.

“Dwayne, I’m gonna-“ Before I could finish my statement I felt myself finish, almost embarrassingly quick.

He smirked, planting a kiss on my forehead.

“So good, baby. Such a good girl f’me.” He praised as my chest heaved, panting from my orgasm.

He pulled his fingers out of me, bringing them up to my lips. I immediately took them into my mouth, moaning at the taste of myself. He then lined himself up with my entrance, slowly thrusting inside. I let out a squeal-like sound at the fullness.

“So fucking tight. Taking me so well. Can I move, baby?” He pressed his forehead to mine.

“Yes, please.” I choked out.

As he began to move, I felt tears prodding my eyes at the sensation. It didn’t hurt, no, it felt like I had been transported to another galaxy. I had had sex before, but it’d never felt this good. The combination of the weed, ‘wine’, and him made my brain fuzzy. Each thrust sent me closer to the edge of bliss. I couldn’t have come up with coherent thoughts if I tried. The only thing I could let out was a string of curses, moans, whines, and his name.

He seemed to be in a similar state, frantically thrusting as he pulled my head back by my hair to press kisses and bites to my neck. The way his thrusts lost rhythm, and his grunts grew louder, I could tell he was close. We both were.

“Cum with me baby, c’mon.” He grunted into my neck, reaching his hand down to rub my clit.

That sent me over the edge. I damn near screamed, seeing stars as what felt like an explosion came out of me. He cursed at the sensation of me tightening around him.

“Gonna fill you up, baby.” He growled, thrusting into me harder.

Just as he said he would, he came inside me. As he reached his peak, his teeth sunk into my neck. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say he drew blood. It was a different sensation, not bad, almost pleasurable? I could’ve finished again from the sensation in combination with his warm seed filling me up. The whole encounter had my head spinning.

I whined at the loss of contact as he pulled out of me, taking a moment to watch his cum spill out of me. He then helped me to sit up, pulling my shaking body into his arms and pressing a kiss to the top of my head.

“Did so good, baby. So proud of you.” He whispered.

I looked up at him, my face stained with tears and mascara. He smirked at the sight, wiping my cheeks with his thumbs. He moved to lay down on the bed, keeping my head on his chest.

“I can’t sleep, Michael wants to take me home.” I tried to argue, but it was no use. My dizzy head was already shutting down and my eyes were becoming heavy.

“Shh, just sleep baby. He will understand.” He replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

He began gently tracing patterns on my back. What I hadn’t known was that he was spelling ‘Dwayne’s’ with the brush of his fingertips. As my breath became shallow, I let my eyes close. Michael would just have to trust that I was okay. I felt Dwayne pull the blanket over us as I was quickly lulled into a deep sleep.

I would have slept the whole night if I wasn’t awoken by voices coming from the other ‘room.’ I woke up disappointed to find that Dwayne was no longer next to me and that one of the voices was his.

“Please be quiet, I don’t wanna wake her.” He pleaded with the other person he was talking to.

“Why not? You’ll have to tell her eventually. Or are you going to leave her in the dark forever?” The other voice, which I determined to be David's, rang out.

“I’m going to tell her. It’s just not the right time.” Dwayne argued, his voice remaining quiet.

“She drank it, Dwayne. Her and Michael. They need to know. They need to feed to be one of us.” David responded.

My brows furrowed. Feed? One of them? What the hell was in the bottle? What was Dwayne keeping from me?

I put my clothes, which had been neatly folded on the edge of the bed by Dwayne, back on. I then took a breath, making my way into the room they were talking in.

“What’s going on?”

⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ

⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ

What’s a girl to do after spending the night with a handsome stranger? Call her best friend, obviously.

Still in my pyjamas, hot rollers in my hair, I immediately dialled Michael’s home number on my rotary phone.

“Hello?” A woman’s voice picked up the call, Michael’s Mom.

“Hi, Ms. Emerson! Is Michael around?” I asked, my voice hopeful.

“Oh, yes. I’ll go get him!” She replied, her cheery voice never wavering.

I uttered a ‘thank you’ and waited for Michael to pick up the phone.

“Hello?” His groggy voice spoke a few moments later.

“You have time to get breakfast — well, lunch?” I asked, noting the time on my clock reading eleven thirty a.m.

“Sure,” he replied, “where do you wanna meet?”

“Actually, could you pick me up? My bike broke down last night.” I sheepishly replied, knowing that I’d face a barrage of ‘I told you so’s.’

“Yeah for sure. I can be there in an hour?”

“Great! See you then.” I replied before hanging up.

I quickly got to work on getting ready for the day. I threw on a pair of looser denim shorts, and a fitted Kiss t-shirt. I took my hair down from the rollers, and applied my makeup. As I put on my accessories for the day, my mind started to wander. What was I going to tell Michael? What would he say? What would Star say? Would they be supportive of this newfound crush? Even if they were, would this thing with Dwayne and I even go anywhere? It had occurred to me that I didn’t even know the man.

My thoughts were graciously interrupted as I heard the familiar rumble of Michael’s bike pulling up outside. I caught his eye through my window and waved before holding up two fingers, signalling that I’d be out in that amount of time. I padded downstairs and pulled on my white sneakers before heading out.

“Hey, Killer.” Michael teased, helping me onto the back of his bike.

“Hey, Mike.” I replied, getting settled.

“What happened to your bike? Should we go pick it up? Where’d you leave it?” He turned to look at me with a tinge of concern.

“That’s a story to be told over fries.” I giggled.

He nodded and took off. The drive was quick, much quicker than my bike could go. But, less exhilarating than the one with Dwayne. Still, I revelled in the feeling of the wind in my hair as well as the memories from the night prior.

We pulled into the diner on the boardwalk, sat down, and ordered our drinks.

“So, you gonna tell me what happened last night?” He asked, shooting a pointed look over the menu in his hands.

“Well —“ I cut myself off.

How was I going to explain this? I really didn’t think this through. Back home, my friend Debbie would’ve been cheering and congratulating me for my encounter. She probably would’ve encouraged me to take it a step further. Michael, however, was protective. He had been ever since we met. His older brother instincts seemed to follow him everywhere he went.

“Go on.” He urged, his left eyebrow shooting up.

“Okay so I was riding home, right? Then my bike just shit itself and wouldn’t turn back on. So I was walking, then all of the sudden Dwayne, that guy from the boardwalk pulls up. He’s like ‘want a ride’ and I’m like well duh. Anyway, he drove me home and—“ I cut myself off once more. I really didn’t know how to explain that I invited Dwayne into my house.

“And, what? Let me guess, he tried to kill you? Or kidnap you?” He put his menu down, disappointment already clouding his expression.

“What? No! Nothing like that. He walked me in, and well I…” I trailed off, avoiding his gaze.

“You what?” His eyes never left me.

“I invited him in, okay? And I know what you’re thinking, but nothing happened. He helped me with my hand and I got cleaned up, then we just slept. But when I woke up, he was gone. He left a note, though.” I was rambling, now. I leaned forward, catching my head in my hands and brushing my fingers through my hair.

“What’d the note say?” His curiosity was piqued.

“Just directions to some place I’d never heard of. He said sorry he had to go and told me to go there for my bike tonight.” I shrugged. I left out the part where he heard me touch myself from a room away. Michael didn’t need to know everything about me.

“You gonna go?” He asked, looking me in the eye.

“Well, yeah. I need my bike. I also wouldn’t mind seeing him again.” I muttered, picking my menu back up.

Michael was about to speak when our waitress walked over, saving me from further scrutiny. We each ordered our food, and the waitress left all too soon.

“Look, if you go, just let me come with you. I don’t know about this guy, but I definitely don’t trust his friends. Star said they’re always up to no good.” He pleaded, taking a sip of his Coke.

“I don’t know, Mike. I feel good about him. But I will accept a ride.” I smirked, referencing my lack of transportation.

“Deal.” He agreed.

After eating, the two of us decided to check out some local shops along the boardwalk. We stopped at a book store, a jewelry shop (in which I tried to convince Michael to pierce his ear), and even a fortune teller. We eventually landed at the comic book store, where Sam was hanging out with the Frog brothers. The three became weirdly hushed the moment they laid eyes on me.

“That’s her.” Sam whispered, a feeble attempt at covering the fact that they had just been talking about me.

“What?” I asked, puzzled as to what these three kids could possibly have to say about me.

“The vampire lover.” Edgar stated in that faux adult voice.

I chucked, turning to Michael.

“You need to check what your baby brother is reading.” I stated.

“Sam, what are you guys talking about?” Asked Michael, his eyebrows furrowing.

“Saw her talking to the big one, Mike. She’s one of them!” Sam exclaimed, seeming to back away from me.

“What? Dwayne? He’s not a vampire, neither am I. That’s crazy!” I laughed.

My laughter came to a halt when I noticed the deadly serious expression on the boys’ faces.

“Seriously, guys, what’s going on?” Michael asked, “Do you know something about Dwayne?”

“He and his friends are vampires! They’re blood suckers, Michael! You have to believe me!” Sam rambled, his words spilling out like vomit.

I remained tight lipped for a moment, beginning to wonder if my best friend’s little brother needed to be institutionalized. Sure, Dwayne and his brothers were edgy and had a ‘bad boy’ persona to them, but that didn’t make them vampires. Vampires weren’t even real! Where on earth were these boys getting that idea from? And to accuse me as well? This was lunacy.

“Oh my gosh! Why would you even think this?” I asked, I heard my voice raising before I could stop it.

I could not tell if I was feeling defensive towards myself, Dwayne, our blossoming courtship, or all of the above. They were just kids, why did their words feel like a needle bursting the proverbial bubble I was in?

“Seriously, guys, cut it out.” Michael stepped forward.

The two of us shared a look of confusion, our brows furrowing in a similar pattern.

“Whatever, believe us or don’t. Just know, if you become one of them; we won’t hesitate to put you and your blood sucking boyfriend down.” Edgar warned, his faux deep voice making the threat even more empty sounding.

“Whatever you say.” I chuckled as I turned to leave the store.

Michael said something to Sam about not being home for dinner before turning to follow me.

“You still wanna go to his place?” Michael joked in reference to Dwayne’s alleged vampirism.

“He’s so hot, I don’t even know if I’d care.” I replied, my lips cracking into a smirk.

“Seriously? That guy? He looks like a long lost member of Mötley Crüe.” He scrunched his nose as he questioned my taste.

“They’re hot too.” I stated, speeding up to avoiding further scrutiny.

He jogged behind me to catch up, grabbing my arm to slow me down.

“Not that I don’t trust your clearly impeccable taste, but I’m still coming with you. You just never know, okay?” I stared down at me with the eyes of a loyal and fiercely protective dog.

“Like I said before, I won’t turn down a ride. But, if you pull some cock block shit, I’ll never forgive you.” I joked, but tried to keep my expression serious in order to fuck with him.

He choked on air as I turned to keep walking towards his bike.

“What?” He half asked — half exclaimed as he, once more, jogged to catch up.

“Relax, Mikey, I’m joking.” I giggled as I slowed to a halt in front of his bike.

He let out a relieved sigh.

“But, vampire or not; I’m definitely hitting that at some point.” I teased as we got on his bike.

He just rolled his eyes with an exasperated sigh before we took off towards the location that Dwayne had told me to meet him.

As we approached the final destination, I couldn’t help but wonder if Dwayne had made a mistake or if Michael and I were just directionally challenged. I had been expecting a house, or maybe an auto shop. However, a cave was at the bottom of my list of potential work/living spaces that Dwayne may have inhabited, to say the least.

“Are you sure this is right?” I asked as Michael helped me off his bike.

“I’m just as confused as you are.” He stated, scanning our surroundings.

The cave was far enough from the city to where nothing illuminated our path except the pale moonlight and the yellow hue from Michael’s headlight. Just ahead, I could see the entrance of the cave was alight with an orange flicker. I looked closer at the area, spotting a group of five motorcycles — one being mine.

“I guess this is right.” I suggested, motioning towards my bike that was sat within a makeshift parking lot slightly below us.

“I guess so.” He shrugged.

Before he could stop me, I was making my way towards the entrance of the cave.

“Hey! Just wait!” He tried to call, but it was too late; I was already inside.

The cave was interesting? The entrance was a little bit dreary, but as I continued to venture further I noticed an array of items that seemed to come from a different timeline. Vintage mirrors, artwork, and trinkets were strewn about the pathway I wandered. I could hear Rebel Yell by Billy Idol blaring in the distance, telling me that I was headed in the right direction. The whole situation was disorienting, and I became so distracted by my surroundings that I had missed a step, leading to a short fall. As my hands hit the stone below me, I began to wonder where the hell Dwayne — or anyone was, for that matter.

As if on cue, a pair of strong arms helped me up.

“Sorry, beautiful, I should’ve warned you about our… unstable home.” He half-joked, a pitiful look plastered on his face.

“It’s okay, just another bruise. Wait, home? As in you live here? All of you?” I replied, confused as I was certain this abode wasn’t up to code.

He chuckled and opened his mouth to respond, however Michael’s footsteps from behind us cut him off.

“I didn’t know you’d be bringing company.” He said, shooting a pointed look at Michael.

It was then that I had noticed his arm resting on the small of my back; a move which felt almost possessive.

“Yeah, sorry, this is my best friend Michael. He insisted on giving me a ride.” I replied sheepishly.

The two kept their eyes on one another, their faces serious — yet unreadable? I began to feel like a proverbial tug of war rope. I didn’t know whether to reiterate to Dwayne that Michael and I were just friends, or remind Michael that I was a big girl and could take care of myself. Either way, I was sure that any attempt to diffuse the tension would be feeble.

“Well, no problem. It’s a party, come in.” Dwayne finally broke the tension, leading us inside. His arm never left my back as we travelled through the makeshift corridor into the even more makeshift living room.

As we entered the space, I noticed Dwayne’s brothers were all in attendance. The taller blond was moving erratically to the Billy Idol cassette, a joint hanging from his lips. The shorter one was perched on the couch, eyeing me in a way that made me feel as though I was about to be devoured. And the bleach blond was sat upon a wheelchair as though it was a throne.

“Uh, this is Paul,” he pointed towards the dancing stoner, “Marco,” he gestured towards the couch creep, “and that’s David.” He finally motioned towards the wheelchair king.

“This is the girl I was telling you about and her friend, Michael.” As he introduced us, I noticed his normally stoic demeanour turn almost sheepish, as though he was hoping for the approval of his brothers.

“Nice to meet you guys!” I piped up, trying to alleviate some of the awkwardness.

Michael remained silent, still trying to get a feel of our surroundings. Dwayne’s brothers simply smirked, sharing a look that I couldn’t decipher.

The whole situation felt uneasy; the brothers, the cave, their shared look. However, I couldn’t help but to dwell on the fact that Dwayne had told them about me. Dwayne seemed to sense my twinge of anxiety as he rubbed small circles on my back with his thumb. He looked like he was about to say something else when Michael interjected.

“Is her bike really fixed? We should really get going.” He stated, his tone shifting protective — almost defensive.

“Michael,” David drawled, “it’s a party. Stay awhile. The night is young!”

Paul and Marko began to cheer as chants of Michael’s name filled the cave. Dwayne looked down at me, a coy smile grazing his lips.

“Stay?” He asked, moving in front of me and holding his hand out.

I could feel Michael’s eyes burning a hole through the back of my head, silently urging me to decline. Against his wishes, and my better judgement, my hand reached forward to take hold of his.

I hadn’t known it yet, but at that moment, my fate was sealed.

⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⋆. 𐙚 ˚❀⋆.

Taglist (comment or message me to be added): @thelostgirl1987

As Dwayne and his friends rode off into the night, I felt myself staring until I could no longer see him. My mind was racing. Would I see him again? Did he want that? Could he be what I had been missing?

“Who was that?” Michael’s concerned voice released me from my rambling thoughts.

“He said his name was Dwayne.” I replied, matter of fact, but I could feel a small smile form as I said his name.

Star was quiet, a concerned look plastered on her face — one she was clearly trying to hide.

“Star?” I furrowed my brows as I moved closer to her.

“Just be careful, okay? Lots of weirdos out here.” She mumbled, tight lipped.

I moved past it, but I felt as though she was hiding something.

“I know, just had a run in with some creeps.” I replied, gesturing to the group of men who had huddled into a nearby liquor store — one still rubbing his cheek from my apparently powerful punch.

Michael immediately tensed, glaring towards the men.

“Calm down, I’m fine. I got a few licks in and got away. Dwayne actually came to help, but I’d already gotten away from them.” I explained, Michael seemed to relax after that.

“Still, be careful. I’ve seen those guys around, they seem … dangerous. Just be careful, I couldn’t stand to see you hurt.” Star explained, her demeanour closed off but her face was coated in concern.

“Don’t worry guys. I’m a big girl, I can take care of myself. But I appreciate the concern. You’re like the mom and dad I never had.” I teased, bringing my hands to my heart dramatically.

Star noticed the blood on my hand and winced, covering it with a cough.

“Oh! Yeah, got it from punching creep number three. Nothing some ice and a bandaid can’t fix.” I held my hand up proudly, as though it was an award for my troubles.

“Let’s get you home.” Michael said, ruffling my hair.

I pouted, but knew he was right. This was definitely enough excitement for one night and my Mom would get concerned if I was out too late.

The two walked me to my bike, still parked outside of the record store.

“Are you sure you don’t want us to come with you?” Michael said, apparently still feeling protective.

I held my hand up again.

“Clearly I can take care of myself.” I giggled, but the two still wore faces of worry — clearly not amused.

“Seriously, guys, thank you. I’ll be okay, it’s a quick ride.” I half-lied. My bike was dilapidated, to say the least. It got me from point A to point B, but it definitely needed a trip to the auto shop. It moved a little slower than most, and would sometimes break down at the most inopportune times. But this was not information that I was going to leak to my apparent bodyguards.

“Okay, call my house if you need something. I’ll be there, or Sam, or even my Mom will help.” Michael said, wrapping me in a hug.

I turned to hug Star, which she returned. I then hopped on my bike. My engine sputtered a bit before purring (as best it could) and I rode off.

As I rode home, my mind was still racing with thoughts of Dwayne. Did Star know him? She’s not normally so stand offish. He seemed nice, sweet even. It didn’t help that he had eyes that could melt me, or lips that I could kiss for hours. Could he be as terrible as some of the other Santa Carla men?

My barrage of thoughts were cut short as my engine sputtered again, my bike slowing to a harsh halt.

“Fuck.” I cursed out loud.

“Not now.” I pleaded as I tried to start it again, to no avail.

Maybe Michael and Star had a point. Maybe if my mind hadn’t been so preoccupied, I would have accepted their help. However, the adrenaline from my run in with the creeps combined with Dwayne’s intoxicating presence seemed to have overtaken the part of my brain where common sense came from.

I had zero knowledge of bikes. When my Dad had given me this one for my 17th birthday, he’d tried to teach me how to care for it, but I was so preoccupied by all of the other things I had going on that it took a backseat. So here I was, mentally cursing cheerleading, friends, and school for getting in the way of my apparently vital bike lessons.

I hopped off my bike, trying to map out how long it would take to walk home. I had broken down about a quarter way into what would’ve been a thirty minute ride. As I looked around, I noticed that every residential light was off — leaving only the blinking street lamps in my wake. I became acutely aware of how alone I was, and remembered the whole ‘murder capital of the world’ thing. I tried my bike once more, none of the usual tricks working. I took a breath and accepted my fate. I would either make it home and have slightly sore legs come morning, or I would become another gory statistic. I shuddered at the thought.

I sighed and began to walk the route to my house, moving as fast as my legs would take me without breaking into a full sprint.

Dammit if I wasn’t a little bit scared. I never realized how eerie Santa Carla could be at night, away from all of the people at the boardwalk. My mind began to race again; my death, my missing poster, my Mom’s reaction to my body being found, Michael and Star’s reactions, my funeral.

Once again, my fervent mind was cut off. This time by the sound of a motorbike in the distance. I’d hoped it was Michael, or at least — someone who wouldn’t want to eat me. As the light approached, I slowed, shielding my eyes from the light with my hand. Then, it stopped. Just a few metres short of me, the bike came to a halt.

I heard my name being called and moved closer.

It was him. The man straight out of a romance novel. The man who had forced all common sense out of my brain. It was Dwayne.

“Need some help?” He asked, hopping off his bike.

“My bike broke down, so I’m just walking home.” I stated, trying to play it cool, even though I’m sure he noticed the way my cheeks flushed under the pale moonlight and blinking streetlights.

“Beautiful girl like you shouldn’t be alone this time of night. You already had issues, how about I take you home?” He moved closer. Something about his face told me that he could see right through me. The glint in his eye, his little smirk, and his tone that never wavered from ‘I somehow sound serious but also teasing.’

My breath hitched at the thought of being that close to him. Then I remembered Star’s apprehension. What if he really is just another creep?

“Uh, where are your friends?” I stammered, attempting to change the subject.

His smirk grew larger and he let out a short chuckle.

“Brothers. They were still hungry. Come on, baby, I ain’t gonna bite.” He reached his hand out, waiting for me to grab it.

Before I could stop myself, my hand was on his and he was leading me towards his bike.

“You gonna kill me?” I asked, half jokingly.

“If I was, I wouldn’t tell you. But, no, beautiful. I think I wanna keep you around.” He smirked, guiding me onto his bike.

I told him my address as I hopped on behind him.

“Hold on tight.” He warned before taking off.

It was all so intoxicating. His scent being so close, the feeling of his leather jacket against my face, his bare torso against my hands, and the way he drove as though he had nothing to live for.

I’d never been one to get scared on bikes, I had taken mine on a few joyrides myself — but he was on another level. The way he sped felt like we could take flight at any moment. On one hand it was horrifying, and had me gripping his body for dear life; on the other it was exhilarating. It all came to a disappointing end as he slowed in front of my house.

I begrudgingly released him from my grasp before slowly getting off of his bike. As my feet planted on the ground, I felt my legs shake before my knees buckled.

“That rough, huh?” He chuckled as he caught me.

Looking up at him, his features somehow looked more beautiful — if that was even possible. His smirk grew into an almost smile as he caught me staring.

“I’m just not used to riding like that.” I mumbled, quickly looking away.

He got off his bike and helped me up, but he hadn’t released my arms from his.

“Sorry, princess, should’ve taken it slow for you.” He drawled out, his tone more flirtatious than ever.

“N-no, it’s okay. It was fun. Like I said, just not used to it. My bike is like if a snail were a bike.” I stammered, trying to shake off the fact that he had gotten me so flustered that I stuttered.

I’m not a particularly shy person, so his ability to make me feel so weak in the knees was alarming, to say the least.

“Can I walk you in? Wanna make sure you’re safe.” He asked, his thumb lightly rubbing my arm.

I chuckled, thinking he was joking. However, when I finally looked up at his face, I realized he was serious.

I looked up at the house, no lights were on so I figured that my Mom was asleep. What was the harm? He had gotten me this far without killing me. Maybe Star was wrong.

“Okay.” My mouth spoke before my brain could stop me.

Against what would probably be my better judgement, I lead him towards my house and unlocked the door. I stepped inside and noticed his hand lingering on my arm.

“Would you like to come inside?” I asked, once again before I could stop myself.

He simply smirked, nodding before walking through the threshold, closing the door behind him.

“Uh, do you need anything? Like food or a drink?” I asked, the awkwardness of the situation suddenly dawning on me.

“No, baby. Let’s just get you cleaned up, you’ve had quite the night.” He replied, gesturing to my bloodied knuckles and cherry cola stained clothes.

I led him towards my bedroom, in which I was lucky enough to have an adjoining bathroom for the aforementioned clean up.

As we entered my bedroom, he moved to take a look around. He browsed my bookshelves, and let soft chuckled out at the Jim Morrison poster on my wall. I closed the door behind me before the gravity of the situation really dawned on me. Was he expecting something in return for the ride? I hadn’t really done anything to make it seem like that wasn’t where this was headed. I mentally cursed myself for my poor judgement in this situation.

“So, like, what do you want to do? I know it probably seems like I brought you up here for sex, and it’s not like I don’t want to do that. I mean you’re beautiful. Can I call a man beautiful? Well, you are. And, like, yeah, I wouldn’t be opposed to having sex with you. But, I’m not that kind of girl. Well, at least I don’t think I am. Oh my gosh, my Mom is asleep a room over. What have I done? Curse your face!” The words came out of me like vomit before I even realized that my thoughts were being vocalized.

He looked at me with that damn smirk, picking up a stuffed bear that sat on my bed.

“Cute.” He stated simply, placing it back exactly where he found it.

I stayed tight lipped, awkwardly standing by my door as I waited for his reply to my ramblings. He seemingly noticed my discomfort.

“I’m not here for anything in specific. I think that we should take a look at that hand, get you in the shower, and get you into bed.” He stated, causing my shoulders to relax as I let out a breath.

He sauntered over and grabbed my hand, leading me into the bathroom. I let out a small squeak as he effortlessly lifted me and sat me on the counter. He then began rummaging through the cabinet beneath me, pulling out a first aid kit that I hadn’t even realized I owned.

“Get hurt a lot?” He asked, ripping open an alcohol wipe.

“Not really. Mom must’ve put that in there.” I shrugged.

Without warning, I felt a stinging sensation on my hand and let out a hiss. I hadn’t noticed the way that his tongue darted over his lips at the sight of my dried blood.

“Really, it’s okay. I was just gonna run some water over it.” I chuckled, trying to hide the pain that came with the alcohol wipe.

“Let me take care of you, princess.” He mumbled as he wiped the wound clean. He threw the remnants in the trash and tucked the kit back in the cabinet.

“I don’t think anything is broken, but you’ll probably get a nasty bruise.” He said as he examined my hand.

“You a doctor or something?” I laughed, the question feeling ridiculous because he was clearly so not a doctor.

“Just been in a few fights myself. My brothers too, they can be very reckless.” He replied, turning the knob of my bathtub.

He then helped me down, leading me towards the tub. He put my hand under the running water.

“Warm enough?” He asked.

“I can run my own bath, you know.” I scoffed, a small giggle following.

“I told you to let me take care of you, baby. Is it warm enough?” He repeated, his face remaining serious.

Was this a dream? I invited a man I had just met into my home, and he proceeded to play doctor and run me a bath. And he wasn’t expecting sexual favours? Or trying to kill me?

“It’s perfect.” I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Good.” He said, a smile taking form on his lips as he put the plug in the tub.

“Wait, what are you gonna do?” I asked, remembering that taking a bath while your guest was there wasn’t the best hostess behaviour.

“I can keep myself busy, you have a lot of stuff to look at.” He gestured to my room.

He was right, I did have a lot of stuff. Photos from my old town, awards from school and cheerleading, a large record collection, band posters, my bookshelf, and my vhs collection that sat under my small tv.

“Oh, yeah. Feel free to look around. You can put on a movie or read a book if you want to. I shouldn’t be long.” I took my jacket off and hung it up before turning to put some bubble bath into the tub.

I then turned to retrieve some pyjamas only to be surprised by Dwayne, holding a baby pink set.

“Wear this.” He said, placing the set in my arms.

It had dawned on me that he had went through my drawers, and pulled out one of my skimpier pyjama sets. But for some reason, I didn’t care in the moment.

Oftentimes, when men try to ‘take care of me’, I scoff at them. I fight it. I tell them I can take care of myself. However, with Dwayne I could feel every fibre of my body screaming for me to give in.

“Sorry, I went through your drawers. Don’t worry, I didn’t see anything I shouldn’t have.” He teased in reference to my underwear drawers.

I remained speechless at the way he so easily read me.

“Get cleaned up. Relax. I’ll be here.” He said, shutting the bathroom door behind him.

I did just that. I peeled off my clothes and sunk into the tub. I let the water engulf me, relaxing my tense muscles. The man in the next room never left my thoughts. His strong arms, his scent, the way that he looked as he took care of me. It was intoxicating. And it caused me to feel an ache in my core.

As I heard music playing from my bedroom, my mind was made up. He wouldn’t hear me, and he told me to relax. Before I could stop myself, my hands were sliding down my body, my fingers gently circling my clit. I bit back a moan, but all I wanted to do was scream his name.

I knew I could’ve just asked him and he would probably fuck me, but if this was something real; I wanted to take it slow.

I finished my bath and stepped out, drying off and putting on the pretty set he picked out for me. I left the bathroom to find him on my bed. His jacket and shoes were off and he seemed relaxed. He looked at me with a knowing smile, but I ignored it; preferring the reality in which he didn’t just hear me touch myself to the thought of him.

He patted the spot next to him and I laid down, allowing him to put his arm around me. I looked at the clock on my bedside table which read two am. I mentally thanked God for the fact that I didn’t have work in the morning.

“Dwayne?” I whispered.

“Hm?” He replied.

“Thank you for everything today.” I said, feeling my body begin to melt into his.

“Anytime, baby. Sleep now.” I felt him rubbing gentle circles on my back, quickly lulling me into much needed rest.

When I awoke, he was gone. I frowned. I was about to start cursing his existence when I noticed a note on my bedside table. It had directions to a place I had never heard of followed by:

‘Sorry, beautiful. Had to get home. Come to this address tomorrow night and I’ll have your bike fixed up. P.S. next time you wanna touch yourself, call me instead.’

I blushed, embarrassment flooding my thoughts. Then I mentally thanked him for letting me sleep instead of teasing me. And fixing my bike. Damn, he seemed like the perfect man.

Maybe Star was wrong.

What could possibly be wrong with him?