#drider lover

Elle felt a sense of relief wash over her when she turned the sign to closed. Once she locked the doors, she picked up a broom and began to sweep.  Humming softly, she paused when a shadow loomed over her. Turning, she looked up at the face of her coworker. 

Wrecks drummed his fingers together, his face pensive. 

“Hey.” She set the broom against the wall as Horac came through with a pile of dishes, grunting and snorting with the effort. 

“Shepard.” He began. 

“Please, call me Elle.” She interrupted, feeling her cheeks flushed at the last name. It was better than Elodie, but only just barely. They’d been working together for nearly four weeks, and he still acted so formally. 

Then again, she had terrified him the first day.

“Elle…” Wrecks drew out the syllable as if the single sound baffled him, before scowling. Clearing his throat, Wrecks removed his spectacles and wiped them off. 

“I have a favor to ask. And I’m terribly sorry to put you on the spot.” He patted at his pockets, before producing a carton of cigarettes. 

“I need a smoke. Join me?” 

They exited through the kitchen, with Wrecks lighting up. He offered the pack to Elle, but she shook her head. 

“I’m not sure how up-to-date you are on Drider culture.” Wrecks began, taking a long drag. Silvery green smoke floated up toward the sky in thin tendrils. Whatever was in the cigarettes wasn’t tobacco or cannabis. 

Elle shook her head. “Not really. I didn’t want to be rude and badger you on the job about it.” The scent of the smoke made her nose itch. Earthy, with a strange dankness. 

“Well.” He sighed. “Normally I don’t ask anyone this, but I’m in a tight spot.” Another drag. “The Festival of Arachne is coming up, so a lot of Driders are going to be swarming this part of town.” 

“Need a date?” Elle asked, before chuckling at his flustered expression. 

“No.” He said sharply, dragging out the vowel and making a slicing motion through the air. The smoke danced at the reaction. 

“Quite the opposite. I need to be far, far away from all of it.” He sighed. “I still have to work, since we’re shorthanded, but…”  

Inhaling sharply, he pinched the bridge of his nose, pushing his spectacles up to his forehead. “I called around. I can’t stay in a human hotel without paying an exorbitant fee. And all the local ones are going to be filled to the brim with attendees.” Swallowing, he stubbed out the cigarette and stuck it in the breast pocket of his vest. 

“Can I stay at your place the week the festival is being held here?” He clasped his hands together. “I’m not saying I’ll be by myself while you’re at work. I’ll still come with you to the morning shift, but I want to… Minimize my exposure.” 

“Horac has his kids, and they’re terrified of me. Ram has his own place, but it’s too close to… All this. Night shift is going to be busy…” 

“Wrecks…” Elle bit her lip, “I live in a studio apartment, in the Leviathan district.” She felt her cheeks burning. “We’ll be in close quarters.” 

“I will pay half your month’s rent.” He reached into his breast pocket and pulled out his wallet. “And I’ll buy groceries and pay for anything I use.” 

The one thing she couldn’t refuse. Money. 

Wrecks’ cheeks flushed, his pleading expression making it hard to say no. 

“You can’t smoke inside. Landlord’s rules.” She was trying to figure out how to fit him in her car when Horac bellowed for them to come back inside. 

“It’s bad enough when Spinner is rushing out for a smoke every hour.” The Boarman chastised when they came back in. “Don’t you slip into the habit, too.” 

Elle sighed, rolling her eyes and picking up a rag. He was right, but it still made her nervous to even fathom losing the job. She was going to make up for it by cleaning so well, they’d see reflections on every surface. 

***

Wrecks was silent on the drive back. His suitcase fit in the front seat, and he took up the entire back. His legs pushed the button to roll the window up and down. The breeze stirred Elle’s hair, making a few strands tickle the back of her neck. She kept her eyes on the road, but the sound was starting to get on her nerves. 

“You’re going to break it.” She warned him. “I’ve got the AC on, why do you keep messing with the window?” 

“Sorry.” He rolled the window up. “I’ve never been in a car before.” 

The statement baffled Elle so much she nearly pulled over to look at him. But traffic was too good to slow down. 

“How do you get around?” 

“I generally walk. Or swing.” He cleared his throat. “Webbing has many uses. I used to have a bridge from my place to the restaurant until some kids burnt it.”  

“Hopefully not while you were on it.” Elle frowned. 

“Arachne, no!” He shook his head. “Caused some damage to a local shop. The poor owner had to shut down for two weeks. Ramses paid for it all.” Sighing, he set an elbow on the armrest, rolling down the window. Eyes wide, he quickly rolled it back up. 

“Because he takes good care of his employees?” Elle asked, half laughing at the quote, before images of her first day flashed through her mind. Focusing on the road, she tried to ignore the tingling between her legs. 

Wrecks stifled his own laugh. “Yeah.” He looked around. “Can I smoke in the car?” 

“...Let me pull over.” 

“I can wait!” He insisted. 

When she pulled into the complex, the parking lot was mostly empty. Good. The fewer questions she’d have to answer, the better. 

Wrecks fell out of the back seat, unable to get proper footing in all six of his legs. After righting himself, he went to grab his suitcase. 

“I’m impressed you can afford this on your pay.” He remarked, looking at the entire building. "The things I heard about this side of the district made me think it was a shantytown."

Elle shook her head. “I wish.” She pointed at the top floor. “I live in one unit.” 

Locking her car, she began to head for the stairs. Wrecks hadn’t moved from his spot, still taking it in, a look of awe on his face. 

“What kind of place do you live in?” She grabbed his arm and tugged gently. The contact broke him out of the trance, and he began to follow her. 

“There’s a nice area not too far from work, right on the border between the Mammon and Satan District.” Wrecks explained. “A little swampy, but secluded.” He sighed. “But around this time of year, it’s unbearable.” Pulling his glasses off, he rubbed his brow. 

“Like a…” He frowned, trying to find the appropriate comparison. “...Let’s just say I wouldn’t be getting much sleep.” 

When they arrived at the door, Elle hesitated. She hadn’t brought anyone home since she’d moved in. Even with her frenzied cleaning, she hadn’t unpacked half her belongings. This place was barely lived in. 

“Do you… Not want me to come in?” Wrecks’ grip tightened on the handle of his suitcase. 

“It’s a little messy.” She admitted. 

“I’ve seen a nest after a clutch has been born.” Wrecks assured her. “It can’t be that bad.”

As the door creaked open, Elle flicked on the lights, making sure to kick off her shoes. Holding her purse close, she sidestepped to let Wrecks inside the available space in the living room.

The apartment was cramped, with her mattress taking up a third of the available space. At least she’d made the bed before leaving. There was a coffee table next to the bed, her laptop open and switched off resting on it. Bookshelves covered the walls, filled with her favorite texts and various magazines. Boxes filled most of the free space on the floor, with a small line to get to the kitchen, bed, one corner, and bathroom.   

She went to the corner, kneeling next to a small table. Lighting the half-melted candle, Elle counted her tips for the day and placed them in an envelope. 

Once she’d pressed a rune into the wax, sealing it, she set the papers aflame. Before the fire reached her fingers, it flickered away, leaving her hands closing on empty air. 

“I thought you weren’t a mage.” Wrecks was behind her, staring at the table, head cocked to the side. 

“I’m not.” Elle cupped the flame and blew it out, the scent of magic in the air. “I just use it to pay bills and send letters.” 

Wrecks pointedly looked at her laptop, raising a brow.

“When I don’t want them to trace it or bother me.” Elle crawled under his legs, standing once she was behind him. “You know how it is.” 

Going to the bathroom, she undid her buns and started to wipe off her makeup. The thought of dressing in the bathroom for the next week made her nearly groan in annoyance. But at least she’d have money. Even if it was only a little. 

When she came out, Wrecks was picking up various things from the floor and placing them on the coffee table and bed. Her clothes, powerstrips, he’d even gone to the kitchen and seized her empty cups and plates she hadn’t washed. 

“What… Are you doing?” 

He froze, slowly turning and picking a glass he’d just set down back up. “Sorry.” He looked around at the boxes scattered around the apartment, fingers twitching. 

Sucking in a breath, Elle looked around. “Is it going to bother you if my apartment looks like this?” It was an excuse to finally unpack… It had been a month. 

“You see…” Wrecks collected the cups and took them back to the kitchen. “A Drider will make their home kind of a… A nest? Since this place is so small.” He winced apologetically. “I just started…” 

“It’s okay.” Elle found herself smiling and giggling. “It’s actually kind of adorable.” She took a box and set it on her bed. “Help me unpack then?” 

There wasn’t actually much to organize once it was actually done. There was more clean-up than actual unpacking done. 

Breaking down boxes, hanging up and folding clothes, washing dishes seemed to ease the anxiety Wrecks was feeling. He was running the vacuum when she went to the kitchen and pulled out leftovers for dinner. As the container spun in the microwave, she realized. 

“Can you eat human food?” She knew there was a Monster Market down the street, but they closed before sundown. 

“Hm?” Wrecks put the vacuum cleaner next to a bookshelf. 

She pulled out the container when it was finished. “I wasn’t expecting a guest. I’m not sure what you all eat. We can go shopping tomorrow.” He had offered to buy groceries, after all. 

“Hm…” The kitchen became more cramped as Wrecks looked in the fridge. She once again found herself crawling under his legs to escape. 

Pulling out a package of defrosting meat, he sniffed it. “I think I can have this?” Holding it up, he stared at a few stray drops of blood trickling down his fingers. 

“...Sure.” Elle went to her laptop and shoveled down leftover rice and beans, doing her best to ignore the chewing sounds coming from the kitchen. Should she have gotten him a plate and utensils to eat with? 

Booting up her laptop, Elle suddenly remembered what she’d been watching before going to sleep. Her headphones rattled with the moans of a woman. They were plugged in, and she hoped Wrecks’ hearing wasn’t better than a human’s. 

A video of a woman moaning, bent over an altar, as a goat-headed man pounded her from behind flashed across the screen. Elle scrambled, managing to exit from the video in record time. Reopening her browser, she loaded up a TV show. 

Hovering back, Wrecks squinted at the screen. Elle patted the spot on the bed next to her. Slowly, he approached and prodded at the mattress with his front legs, before settling down awkwardly, tucking limbs under himself. 

Raw meat clung to his hands and he continued to eat, lapping at the blood on his fingers, trying to be quiet about it. He seemed transfixed by the show, his eyes wide and focused the entire time. Elle wondered if he had internet at his place. 

Wrecks washed the dishes again once the episode was over. Elle realized he was still in his uniform. 

“Erm, do you want to change into something more comfortable?” 

Wrecks looked down at his vest. 

“I suppose.” He cleared his throat, before rifling through his suitcase and then taking his new attire into the bathroom. Elle focused on the screen as she heard rustling and rattling, followed by noises of discomfort. 

“You alright in there?” She called. 

“Tiny…. Space!” He yelped, followed by a loud thud, and a metallic bang. “Ow!” 

Elle rushed into the bathroom, seeing Wrecks in the tub, the shower curtain wrapped around him, and the rod across his midsection. His legs twitched, running on the air and attempting to find solid ground. 

With a sigh, Elle offered her hand. He took it and she pulled him up, a task she didn’t think possible, then helped him out into the living room. Sighing, Wrecks unbuttoned his shirt and slipped it off. 

Turning her head, Elle gave him privacy but caught the Drider’s reflection in the bathroom mirror. His upper body was bony, void of any muscle, with a strange spider tattoo across his chest, his veins dark and resembling a web for it to sit on. 

He caught her looking, and sighed. 

“It’s Arachne’s mark.” He placed a hand on it. “I wanted to get it removed, but it turns out that isn’t an easy fix.” 

“Wait, I thought Arachne was the goddess or something?” Wrecks never stuck her as religious. 

“She is. But she still has followers in the material realm.” He pulled a t-shirt over his head, then let undid his braid. His hair fell down around his shoulders in a shaggy white mane. 

Her mind went to when she’d ingested the Admodues fruit, and how she’d tried to kiss him. How he’d shoved her back and tied her up, afraid. The thought cooled her off, and she gave him room to sit. 

At nine, she found herself nodding off. Wrecks was dozing himself, sharply inhaling when his head lulled. 

“I’ve got some extra blankets if you get cold,” Elle explained as she began to pile pillows on the floor. “As you… Saw.” 

Wrecks watched her curiously. “I don’t need them, but thank you. Why are you nesting on the floor?” 

“Because you’re the guest. So you get the bed.” She resisted the urge to suggest they share. 

Reaching down, Wrecks poked the mattress with his smaller foreleg again. 

“I don’t think I’ll be comfortable.” Tilting his head back, he looked at the ceiling. Raising his human arm, he knocked on the wall, placing his ear to it. Nodding to himself, he cleared his throat. 

“Can I make myself my own bedding?” 

“Um… Sure?” 

Elle watched as he used his webbing to create himself a hammock-like structure just below the ceiling, right above a bookshelf. Hopefully, it would hold, but his movements were practiced and confident, so she didn’t ask. 

Crawling back onto the mattress, Elle cocooned herself and settled down for the night. Her alarm would go off in a few hours. Hopefully, Wrecks wasn’t a grump in the morning. 

***

The candle lit. Elle jerked awake and saw the table in the corner glowing with the light of the fire. After a few heartbeats, the flame went from orange to pink. Arching a brow, Elle debated going over and blowing it out. Maybe someone had tried to communicate with a local mage and wires got crossed?  

Slipping off the bed, Elle went to the table and knelt. 

Her blood ran cold at the sight of the figure in the flame. In the magenta glow of the fire, stood a demon. Even though it was obscured by a pink tint, Elle knew it too well. 

Wavy brown hair framed his face, two flesh-colored horns growing from his brow. His eyes were purple, with black sclera. He grit his teeth, showing fangs that she certainly remembered. 

He was dressed in a t-shirt and jeans, with purple runes and symbols twisting up his bare arms. His hand paused, tracing a pattern in the air, his nails seeming to retract as he lowered his fist.

“Elodie.” He crooned, the name twisting around her with Power. “Let me in, babe.” He leaned against something on his side, eyes coming close to whatever he was using to scry. “I know you’re right there.” 

He pulled back, his hand hovering in the air, offering Elle to take it. She stared at it, seeing the pink fall away, the flesh taking on a peachy color. Despite knowing she shouldn’t, she reached for it. 

Then, Elle had her mind back. Blinking, she scraped her nails against the wall as her hands became fists. She started to stand, but the flame grew brighter, lighting up the room better than any bulb could. 

He was manifesting, his scent overpowering her. Breathing caught in her throat. It was like the berries all over again, the way her body was reacting. No. She had to stay focused. 

“What do you want?” Fear and anger warred in her chest. How could he have found her? No one was supposed to know about her current residence. The table was supposed to cloak her location from any scryers unless she gave permission. 

“Aw. I wanted to see you.” He reached for her, but his hands shook. Small waves of Power rose from the floor. 

A threshold had finally formed… Not enough to keep him from coming through, but he would lose a lot of his power or injure himself to push past it. She thought about rushing back and grabbing her charm, but she couldn’t take her eyes off him. 

“I see you’ve gotten comfortable.” Anger started to creep into his voice. 

Elle took a step forward, about to smother the candle. She reached for the tool on the table.  

“Fuck off, Adrian.” 

She went to snuff it, but he reached through the threshold and put a hand on the douter. His skin blistered and twisted, the runes glowing with heat. Lip twitching, he took another step toward her, the veins in his face contorting. 

Then, his eyes widened. 

“A fucking Drider?” Clenching his jaw, he released the door, reaching for the front of Elle’s shirt. “What, you can’t take a dick anymore? So you have to have someone who doesn’t-” 

A hand shot over Elle’s shoulder and seized Adrian by the wrist. Pink power twisted around, and she saw it glowing brightly against grey skin. 

“Raise your hand like that again, and I’ll throw you into the Underdark.” Wreck’s voice was raspy with sleep. Elle hadn’t even heard him get out of bed. 

Adrian yanked his hand back, teeth bared. 

“Careful who you threaten, Drider.” Rolling his shoulders, Adrian slammed his hand against the barrier. 

“You know he’s never going to give you what I did!” He hit the barrier again, his hands twisting to claws. 

Blood and sparks showered Elle, and she raised her hands to shield herself. A hand grabbed the nape of her neck and pulled. She screamed, starting to thrash as she heard the flame snuff out. 

“Shepard!” Wrecks shook her. “It’s me. Keep your mouth closed.” He produced a rag and wiped her face. “Demon blood is toxic. If you swallow it…” 

Elle’s teeth chattered and she shivered. Wrecks cleaned her face, his expression solemn. 

Putting hands to her face, Elle doubled over and took in deep breaths. 

“You’re shaking.” 

“I’m fine.” She said, with more anger than she intended. Swallowing, she straightened and staggered to the mattress, plopping on it. Wrecks picked up his spectacles and put them on, coming over with the rag and offering it. 

She shook her head, putting a hand to her cheek. It was sensitive, probably burned from the blood. 

“Can you get my work uniform?” 

“You’re going to work after that?” Wrecks asked in disbelief. 

“We’re shorthanded. And if I don’t go, neither do you.” She felt the urge to run, to grab her important papers and flee once the sun came up. 

No… This was her place. She wasn’t going to give it up. All she wanted to do was scream, her eyes going to the corner table. Some cloaking spell. 

Fabric brushed against her arm. Looking up, she saw Wrecks with her uniform folded over his forelegs. He’d thrown on his button-up shirt but had left it undone. 

“Are you okay?” She took the uniform and held it to her chest. 

“I just…” He sighed, shaking his head. “I thought he was going to hit you. It was hard to tell because…” He waved a hand in front of his glasses. “I just wanted to make sure you were okay. Do you want me to call Ramses?” 

The name made her stomach drop. “No. Leave him out of this.” 

She went to the bathroom, staring at the red splattering on her cheek. Touching it, she winced. It was like a wicked sunburn. At least she could take a petty comfort in the fact that Adrian hurt himself enough to bleed trying to get through. 

Prodding it a little more, she shook her head. It would sting, but if she didn’t cover it up, there was no doubt in her mind word would get back to Ramses. As Elle dressed, she tried to psych herself up. 

Work was good. It was money. And once the last bits of her debts were paid off, she could save up to sever this tie once and for all. 

Her reflection was blurry as she applied foundation. Face stinging, she sniffed and shook her head. She could cover it up all she wanted, but the pain would always be a reminder. Even if he never got physical, Adrian could still find ways to hurt her. 

Once she decided her face was presentable, she exited the bathroom and the apartment, locking the door and deadbolt. On her way to her car, she tossed the candle in the garbage after breaking it into thirteen pieces, as she’d been instructed to. It neutralized the spells it could cast. Saving for a new one… 

Wrecks paused to smoke, but his eyes scanned the parking lot. She felt a pang of guilt in her stomach. He’d been trying to stay out of trouble, and she’d drug him into the middle of it. 

The drive was silent. Elle stared at the road, Wrecks sprawled in the backseat, rubbing his forelegs together in what looked like a self-soothing gesture. The window was cracked, the morning breeze rolling over them both. 

“So, who was he?” Wrecks prodded. 

“An incubus I summoned when I was young and dumb.” Elle sighed. “I didn’t read the fine print.” She shuddered at the memory. “I’d rather not go into intimate details.” 

“Could have stopped at ‘incubus’.” Wrecks laced his fingers together, resting them on his stomach. “He called you ‘Elodie’.” The Power crackled in the air. 

“And he said you didn’t have a dick. Both things we didn’t…” She sighed, shaking her head. “Sorry.” 

“It’s fine.” Wrecks shrugged. “He’s right you know, and-” 

“Don’t.” She warned, before sighing in relief as they approached the restaurant. Horac was there, talking on the phone and rubbing his face. 

“Behave for Mama, alright?” He quickly hung up, giving them a two-finger wave.

“Morning.” He grunted, before watching with fascination as Wrecks attempted to get out of the car. “You alright, Elle?” 

“Rough morning.” Elle went to Wrecks and pulled, freeing him from the vehicle. He stumbled, before righting himself and smoothing his shirt. 

“Uptick in tourists.” Horac pulled the front door open. “Expect a busy day.” 

He fixed a human-friendly coffee for Elle (they were to keep at least one edible meal for her in the restaurant at all times, and to inspect every ingredient that came through) and the sludgy liquid for themselves. 

The coffee helped wake Elle up and stave off the anxiety. She still felt jittery. But the feeling of something about to snatch her away started to dissipate. 

Horac eyed the two of them, before sighing. 

“Look, did something happen?” 

Wrecks looked at Elle, eyes urging her to speak. 

Sighing, Elle looked at her mug. The man had kids. He knew when things were off. 

“My ex showed up this morning. Things got a little heated, but he left.” She looked to Wrecks. “It’s nothing you need to go to Ramses about.” 

“Did you call the human authorities?” Horac crossed his large arms. “Or the Guardians? The Church?” 

Elle sucked in air through her teeth. “It’s more complicated than that.” She rubbed her face. “But he’s a coward. He won’t come after me during the day.” Like all Demons, he was weak to the sun. He’d puff out his chest at someone, but physical fighting was beneath him. And if he saw Horac, he’d never come near her. 

Horac sighed, nodding. 

“Let’s open up. It’s almost five.” 

***

Elle hadn’t seen so many Driders in her life. They chatted as she wove through tables. Occasionally, one would do a double-take at the human serving their pastry or coffee. She craned her neck, trying to see if any had the same marking as Wrecks. 

“So, it is true.” One whispered as Elle scurried by with a tray of dirty dishes. “He does have a human working for him.” 

“Do you think that means the rumors about the intact male working here are true?” 

The phrase made Elle go stiff for a moment, having to mentally tell herself what to do rather than rely on muscle memory. The phrasing was so odd it gave her pause. Suppressing a snort, she ducked in the kitchen and noticed Wreck was further back than normal. He was intentionally staying away from the window. 

And he hadn’t gone out for a smoke since they’d opened. 

There was no way… Elle found her head tilting, but shook herself when she realized the implications. 

The breakfast rush ended, with Wrecks throwing himself out the backdoor for a smoke. Elle picked up her phone and saw it had been blown up with calls and texts from an unknown number. Sighing, she blocked it and wondered if it was time for a new one. 

It would be a shame she couldn’t even celebrate the bonus and extra tips all the customers were passing over. 

“I swear their numbers get bigger every year,” Horac commented, breaking her daze. “I’ve heard rumors they’re going to move the festival to the Beezelbub district next year.” He looked at the freezer. “We’re about cleared out.” 

“The truck’s going to be here tomorrow,” Elle assured him. “And worst case, I can run to-” 

There was a loud thud as something hit the side of the building. The two shared a look of confusion before Elle headed out the front door. As she rounded the building, she saw a bunch of webbing all over the ground and side of the building. 

“-think I can’t smell you?” A voice broke through the air. “What the fuck, Wrecks? Why are you hiding out here?” 

“Calamity,” Wrecks whined in response. “You’re hurting me.” 

Peeking around the corner, Elle saw a female Drider pinning Wrecks against the wall, her human arms holding his wrists above his head. Webbing and threads tangled his legs, so getting away would be impossible. 

Wrecks caught her eye, and he shot back a piteous look. The universal expression of “help me.” 

“You’ve got a duty to your people and Arachne.” Calamity argued. “And you’re wasting it playing chef for a demon?” 

“Excuse me.” Elle approached slowly, her cheek burning. 

Calamity whipped around, front legs flexing. Glittery black eyes stared down at Elle. There was no question she was beautiful, human or Drider. Her features were sharp, each eye glittering like onyx in the sun. Long hair fell around her hips, accentuating her tasteful blouse and scarf. Even her fingers were well-manicured, rings sparkling on each one. It made Elle suck in a breath. 

“Fuck off, human.” She sniffed. “This doesn’t concern you.” 

Elle walked closer, not breaking eye contact. Her legs threatened to give out.

“You’re hurting Wrecks.” Elle struggled to keep her voice steady. “Leave him alone.” 

Calamity snorted, brushing a curtain of black hair from her eyes. She was a lot taller than Wrecks, and towered over Elle. If she whipped her legs, it would send Elle flying. 

“You think because you have a Demon Prince for a boss that means you can order Underworlders around? Because you’re in for a rude awakening.” 

“A what now?” Elle’s shock must have shown, barely registering the first part. Calamity’s expression darkened, silvery drool dribbling down her lips. 

“Enough!” Horac bellowed, voice rumbling hard enough to rattle the windows of the restaurant. “I normally wouldn’t hit a lady, but if you don’t stop harassing these two, I’ll make an exception.” 

He and Calamity glared at one another, before she broke free, slashing Wrecks across the stomach, tearing his shirt and vest open. His cigarette carton fell to the ground. 

When she walked past Elle, the hatred of her expression was palpable. 

Running to Wrecks, Elle pulled at the weaving. The webbing wasn’t just sticky, but it also seemed to have… Something on it that tore at her skin. While it didn’t leave gashes, there were tiny cuts that would be a pain. 

“Ah…” Wrecks winced. “Stop pulling at it.” 

Rolling his shoulders, he yanked his legs free. The motion sent a crack up the wall. They both stared at it with wide eyes. 

Swallowing, Elle offered her hand to him. His fingers wrapped around hers, and she led him back inside. Even though he probably didn’t need it, there was a silent appreciation. 

“Should we call an ambulance?” Would he even fit in one?

“I’m fine.” Wrecks assured her as Horac locked the backdoor. “She didn’t break the skin. Although I did like this shirt.” He tried to hold the tattered ends together frowning when they came apart. 

“This is going to be a bitch to fix.” 

Elle knew it had to be serious. Wrecks rarely even rose his voice. To have him swearing, even if it was a ‘minor’ one… 

“Well, she must have rattled you up pretty good if you’re cursing like that.” She said, grabbing a paper towel and using it to soak up the blood blossoming on her palms. 

“Shepard, I can have a filthy mouth, I choose not to.” Wrecks held this hands over the rip and sighed. “It’s hard finding shirts in my size…” 

Horac sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, tusks wiggling in irritation. “This is the kinda crud that night shift is supposed to deal with.” 

They didn’t reopen for lunch, with a bandaged covered Ramses on the phone with a local contractor. He apologized to Wrecks over and over, promising a bonus, paid overtime. 

“It’s fine, really.” Wrecks assured him. “I’m just sorry for breaking the building.” 

“Buildings can be replaced,” Ramses replied. “You can’t.” He rubbed the phone’s screen against his brow. “We may have to close down for the festival.” 

“Horac and I can handle it.” Elle piped up, not wanting to go back to her apartment. “Maybe only close for lunch so you can prep the bar?” 

“The full moon is coming up, too. We’re out of food until tomorrow… All these thirsty Driders will probably be wanting drinks…” Ramses groaned. “Ugh. Too much is happening at once.” He smacked the heels of his palms against his horns. 

“Perhaps I could help?” A sing-song voice called out. With a crack like a whip, Tanpopo was sitting on the front counter, fanning himself with a menu. 

Ramses put himself between the Kitsune and Elle. He made a fist, the residue on his hands beginning to seep through the bandages. 

“Oh relax, Mammy.” Tanpopo set the menu down, pulling out a proper fan and unfolding it. Waving it, he sighed. “I’m not here to play with your human. I’m here because I want to make a deal.” 

“Want me to throw him out?” Horac asked, popping his knuckles loudly. 

“Oh, call off your Pig, Mammy.” Tanpopo scowled. “I don’t like these Driders anymore than you do. The heat makes them aggressive. The less of them concentrated in one area, the better. Besides.” He smirked. “Having a Demon Prince owe me a favor would be simply divine.” 

“How about you leave before I skin you alive for drugging my employee.” Ramses lip split, red drops spilling on the floor. 

“Oh come now, you can’t put all that on me.” The fan snapped closed. “She didn’t have to eat the cakes I brought her.” He looked pointedly at Horac. 

“And weren’t you supposed to be a deterrent? Shame you chose to leave early that day. Are your Piglets at home doing well? Your Sow?” 

The Kitsune grinned. “Now, if we’re all done being squabbling children.” He tapped the fan to his lips. “I keep a favor on retainer, you get some extra hands.” 

“No.” Ramses shook his head. “Never darken my doorstep again.” 

“Fine. Your loss.” With another crack, Tanpopo was gone. His voice faded slowly. “And here I thought you would want a profit.” 

“Boss?” Horac asked. 

“Go home. I’ll handle things here.” Ramses snarled. 

“Understood.” Horac cleared his throat and was out the door. “I’m gonna pick up my kids.” There was worry in his voice. 

“I’m sorry, Ramses.” Wrecks stuttered. “I-” 

“You have nothing to apologize for.” Ramses forced a smile, which made his fangs show. Elle felt a flush of heat go through her. Even if it was fake, the Demon was dazzling. “I knew the risk when you took you on.” 

He turned to Elle. “He’s staying with you?” 

Elle nodded. “For now, until the festival is over.” 

“Good. Head home.” Ramses’ tone left no room for debate. “I expect you to perform up to par or better upon return.” 

“Yes, sir.” Elle nodded, about to turn when Ramses grabbed her arm. Gently, so she could pull free with little effort. Even the slight touch made the liquid start to bubble under the bandages. He kept his face stoic, despite his eyes becoming watery with pain. 

“Are you okay?” He nodded to her hands, his eyes scouring her face. Could he see the marks left by Adrian? 

She pulled herself free before he could.  

“Of course!” Elle forced a smile of her own, before turning to Wrecks. “You ready?” 

***

Wrecks was fiddling with his shirt for what felt like hours while Elle watched him and the show she’d put on. Finally, she dug out her sewing kit. 

“No!” He insisted, “I can do it.” He clutched the shirt protectively. 

“You’re driving me crazy!” She set the sewing kit on the coffee table. “Give it here.” She held out her hand expectantly. 

“No.” He hissed, before crawling up to his mini nest. 

Elle sighed and rubbed her face before she settled back down on the bed. “Do you want to talk about it?” 

“Nothing to talk about.” He said sharply. “Calamity was a friend. Things changed.” Realizing his tone, he sighed and set the shirt down, descending and sitting next to Elle. 

“Drider women get crazy this time of year.” 

She watched him rock, forelegs rubbing together. 

“And you’re not?” 

Wrecks looked toward the window. “Can’t work, can’t go outside, my mind is racing.” He shut the blinds. “What do you do to relieve stress?” 

Elle raised a brow, pausing the show and closing her laptop. They weren’t watching it anyway.  

“What’s that look for?” 

“I don’t think you’re ready for that answer.”  

His face screwed up in realization. “Shepard!” 

“You asked.” 

He rubbed his face. “I forget humans are always ready to go.” He laid back on the mattress, legs pointed straight up. It was almost comical. 

“How do you put up with it? I can barely weave two thoughts together.” 

Elle rolled her eyes. “It’s not like I’m constantly humping anything that moves.” She held up a finger when he opened his mouth. “The Asmodeus Fruit was a one-time exception, and I was drugged.” 

Wrecks closed his mouth, eyes rolling to the side as he pursed his lips, before opening it again. “How did that work out, anyway?” 

The memory of Ramses’ hands over her body, his lips on her skin… Elle shook her head. They’d agreed not to talk about it. 

“He had the antidote. I drank it and we were fine.” She answered quickly, cheeks burning. There was some truth to it. “Although I did give him a run for his money.” Her legs clamped together, the sensation of the silk binding them… 

“Your bindings helped a lot.” 

He breathed a sigh of relief. “It’s one of the first things we learn to spin. It’s pretty easy.” As he spoke, he wove a few strands around his wrist. “And tying things up… It’s a useful skill.” He swallowed. 

“I prefer to use mine to make things.” He paused, braiding the silk into a bracelet and passing it over to Elle. 

Slipping it on her wrist, Elle watched it slide down. It rested above the crook of her elbow, a small silken spider dangling from the braiding. Wrecks looked disappointed at the result. 

“It’s fine!” She assured him, slipping it around her throat. “I’ve always been more of a choker girl, anyway!” 

He stared at the spider, flicking it and giving a slight smile. 

“Last year, I made some clothes for Horac’s daughters. The silk in Ramses parasol? I made that too.” He smiled, “I didn’t really… Pursue my passions in childhood. I was one of Arachne’s chosen, so I was slotted for other purposes.” 

“Oh.” Elle winced. “You weren’t like… In a cult or something, were you?” 

“Depends on your definition.” He shrugged. “Arachne’s followers have their beliefs. A woman was punished by the Gods to become a spider because she mocked and bested them.” He sighed. “And those who were nearby or came to her defense were cursed as well.” 

Taking more strands, he began to weave them around his fingers, making a cat’s cradle. “Talented weavers, but cursed in their own ways. Some Driders follow without taking it to the extreme, but…” He dropped a few strands, forming “witch’s broom”. “If you were one of her ‘chosen’ you’d be in a cage.”   

Elle put a hand to her throat, touching the spider. “Why aren’t you working as like… A tailor or something?” 

Wrecks shrugged. “I’ve always liked cooking, too. The wages for a Drider in the textile business can be… Lower than you would think.” He made a clicking noise with his tongue. “I don’t want to bore you with Underworld Politics, but let’s just say Ramses is rather… Progressive for our kind.” 

Our kind? Elle opened her mouth to ask, but closed it, letting him continue. It made sense demons and creatures of the Underdark communicated and interacted regularly. 

“Anyway, I wanted to make you something. I’ve been wanting to spin all day it’s been driving me crazy. Having someone else give me orders… It’ll help.” He slid more webbing around his fingers. “I guess being a follower never really left my nature.” 

Elle stared at it, before biting her lip. So many uses for ropes… 

No. Focus.  

“Are you sure you don’t want to talk about it?” 

Wrecks shrugged. “I’ve gone to therapy about it. They gave me some good coping mechanisms. But this time of year… It’s hard. Because I want to partake, it’s part of my culture.” His forelegs rubbed together so much, Elle worried they would spark. 

“But I don’t want children. If I father a clutch, any like me will relieve my childhood. And those who aren’t… They’ll grow up in the Underworld or on the fringes of society.” 

‘The intact male…’ 

“I thought you said Driders didn’t…” Her eyes went to where skin met chitin.

“Most don’t,” Wrecks corrected. “An intact male… It’s a rarity.” He inhaled sharply. “Driders are about 75 percent women, with the remaining 25 percent consisting of males, mostly neutered. I couldn’t give you an exact number, but maybe one out of eight clutches will produce an intact male?” 

“Normally, they would give someone like me a little harem or something, never have to work a day in my life. Luxury, wanting for nothing. In exchange, I could never leave the Underworld, and once the Mating Season began....” He let himself trail off, sighing deeply. 

“But I didn’t want that life.” Sighing, he shook his head. “I know this is sounding like a pity party… Poor little privileged Drider complaining about how his perfect life sucked.” 

Elle put a hand on his shoulder. He stared at it, then gave a strained smile. 

“If you didn’t want it, you didn’t want it.” She chuckled nervously. “I understand why you tied me up now.” 

“I generally don’t do it.” He cleared his throat. “When you tried to kiss me, I was worried that some of the berry residues would get on me and it would trigger my mating cycle.” The blush spread down his neck. “I grew up with very aggressive pursuers. And we can be… Violent when mating.” 

Elle slid her hand off his shoulder and put it in her lap. “I’m sorry.” 

“You were under the influence, so I don’t hold it against you.” He stroked her hair. “When Calamity had me tied up and struck me, it got triggered.” Swallowing, he nervously rubbed the back of his head. 

“You see… When Driders go into their cycles, they pair off and mate for the duration of it. Sometimes, there’s combat involved.” 

“Combat!?” Elle sputtered. “Why?” 

“Because we’re predatory. A female needs a strong male to fertilize her clutch. Otherwise, the children born will most likely be neutered, so the legends say.” He rolled his eyes, waving a hand dismissively. “Usually, a dozen or so are born per cycle, but maybe five will make it to adulthood.” 

“Oh.” Elle swallowed, suddenly feeling guilty. This sounded barbaric. She thought of Calamity, her anger. Had she had children that…? 

“It’s… Complicated.” He tucked a few stray strands of hair behind Elle’s ear, the touch making her shiver. “I know you stepped in as my friend and I was looking at you when it got triggered. If you had been a Drider, it would have probably mate bonded us for the cycle.” 

Elle blushed. “I’m not looking for that kind of commitment.” Or another Adrian. The thought made her shiver. 

“Oh. No!” Wrecks waved his hands. “I didn’t mean to imply that! But… When you kissed me that day, even if you didn’t consider it one, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I… Really was flattered. I know outside the Underdark, I’m… Rather frightening. What made me special is common here.”  

He swallowed hard, tongue flicking across his lips, leaving a silvery residue. “And when you came to my rescue, I felt the same pang that I normally would when trying to bond. I know we’re different species, so you probably couldn’t even comprehend such a thing-” 

His face fell, “Not that I’m implying you’re too stupid to, or anything, but-” He inhaled sharply and rubbed his brow. “I have six feet, and I’m shoving them all in my mouth.” 

Elle patted his leg closest to her. “I get what you mean.” 

“Even though we aren’t bonded. Can’t be bonded.” Wrecks explained, “I’m… happy you still came to my aid. And… I do think you’re attractive. And it’s not just the attempted bond talking.” He twisted a section of hair around his finger, staring at it. “I’m not… Good at these types of things.” 

“That’s okay.” She focused on the laptop. “I won’t hold it against you. And I know you’re… Sort of under an influence of your own.” 

Swallowing, he rubbed his hands together. “But it will only last a week or so. After that, my feelings will plummet right back down to platonic. And I do have some self-control.”

She swallowed, closing her eyes. A way to regain control… 

“Why not have fun then?” Elle asked. “You can blow off some steam, and don’t have to worry about a clutch.” 

Wrecks sputtered. “Shepard! I… Look, I know I’ve probably put you in an awkward spot. But, you’re my friend and coworker first. Erm… Well, I don’t want you to feel obligated to do anything you don’t want to and…” Realization dawned on him as she shot him a look. 

“Oh.” He paused. “Wait, you… I mean, the incubus was one thing, but-” 

“Do you need a minute to process?” She felt her cheeks flush. 

Lips were on hers. Front legs wrapped around Elle’s hips, pulling them close. Bitter liquid pooled in her mouth.

Gagging, Elle pulled away and spat, seeing silvery liquid on the coffee table. 

“S-Sorry.” Wrecks gave her a rag. “That’s venom. It’s harmless, though. I keep myself on a strict diet to remove the toxins.” He watched as Elle dabbed at her lips. 

Her mouth tingled, but there seemed to be no ill effects.

“Just caught me off guard.” She found herself smiling, despite it all.

“Do you want to stop?” He swallowed, setting her down. 

“It’s fine!” Elle assured him. “Just uh… Warn a girl next time.” 

“Then… Do you mind if I undress you?” 

“Let me do it.” She pushed him against the mattress, straddling him. His legs tangled with hers. 

Grabbing her shirt, Elle pulled it over her head. 

Wrecks stared at her bra, before looking horribly confused. He ran his hands over it, before pulling at the cups and straps. Elle sighed, and reached back and unhooked it, knowing she’d have to educate him later. 

Wrecks reached up, rolling her nipple between his fingers. Then, he leaned forward, circling his tongue around it, teeth grazing the tip. 

More venom dribbled down her skin, the tingling following. The sensation made Elle’s nipples go erect, the arousal fanning inside her. A soft moan escaped her and she ground against him. 

“I guess that means I’m going it right.” Wrecks chuckled, holding onto her hips. “I’ve never felt a breast before. They’re soft.” He held it in his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Drider women… Don’t have to-” 

She put a finger to his lips. “You’re not with a drider. You’re with a human.” 

Eyes wide, Wrecks slowly nodded. Hands trailed lower, and Elle slipped out of her pants, smashing breasts to his face to do so. When she settled again, his cheeks were inflamed.

He stared at her panties, frowning as his forelegs tugged at the waistband. It snapped against Elle’s skin, making her yelp. 

“I don’t want to rip it.” 

“Slow down.” She laughed, slipping his shirt off over his head. “I don’t even know where to touch you.” 

“It’s still flesh like yours above the waist.” He guided her hand over his chitin, around where she assumed a human groin would be. There was a slit. It was widening at her touch. Running her fingers over the edges, she felt him squirm under the touch. 

Then, she tried to stick a finger in. 

Wrecks flinched, shaking his head and squeezing her shoulders. “No. That’s not what that’s meant to do.” Elle quickly pulled her finger out, resting a hand on the widening hole. 

“Sorry.” 

“I’m fighting against biology, hold on.” 

“Maybe you could try tying me up?” She suggested. “Make me a conquest?” 

“You wouldn’t be able to stop me, then.” Wrecks shifted. “I could hurt you.” 

Elle leaned forward where his neck and shoulder met. She planted a kiss, then sucked hard on the skin, using her teeth. 

Wrecks yelped, grabbing the back of her head. “You’re going to leave a mark…” He whimpered when she moved across his collarbone. Something slick and hard pressed against her, fluid trickling down her thighs. 

Staring at the mark on the Drider’s neck, Elle ground against him again. 

“You’re drenched. I can feel it, even through your panties.” A leg tugged at the waistband. He ran his lips over Elle’s, before pressing hard to the nape of her neck. Their mouths locked again, and she threw her arms around him. 

One leg pushed her panties to the side, and she felt him pressing. Slick and wet, like a very stiff tongue. She wondered if it would be colored like his skin or the chitin.

Reaching down, she guided him inside. Wrecks gasped, hands and legs digging into her skin. More drool and venom dripped onto her cheek. 

“I keep feeling the urge to attack you.” He winced.

“Do you want to stop?” It pained her to say, but the distress was obvious. 

“Just…” His cheeks were purple, “Take control?” 

“Can you make any webbing?” 

He nodded, and she used it to bind his wrists above his head, using the wall to secure it. The legs behind his cock were bound together, and his legs above it to his thorax. Unlike Calamity’s, his webbing was smooth.

He whimpered at first and Elle worried that he would be reminded of Calamity, but his (black!) cock was drooling and erect, and he nodded in approval. More venom drooled out, but he assured her it was normal. 

Lastly, she bound his neck with a leash so he couldn’t rear up and bite her.  

“You alright? Knots aren’t too tight?” 

“I’m… Fine.” He blushed as his cock twitched. “You’ll have to teach me how to do this.” 

Putting her hand at the nape of his neck, she gripped the leash tightly, holding it in place as she straddled him, slipping back onto his cock. The motion made him gasp, his abdomen rocking so he could penetrate further. 

The length was almost too much to take, but she knew how to work around that. Rolling her hips, she found a rhythm that worked. Resting against his bound forelegs, she planted a kiss on his jaw, which made him shudder. 

He thrust against Elle, the motion sending warmth through her body. She pressed her free hand to the wall, continuing to rock her hips and take him nearly to the base. 

Wrecks moans and whimpers grew louder, and she debated gagging him, but knew it would only make him panic. 

“I have neighbors, remember?” She hissed. 

“S-Sorry. Just feels too good.” He gasped, the bite mark on his neck nearly turning black.

 Tingling on her skin made Elle’s skin pebble, each thrust drowning her in wave after wave of pleasure. Leaning down, she covered Wrecks’ lips with her own. Venom pooled in her mouth, more salty than bitter this time 

The barrage of her mouth and tongue made Wrecks’ body grow scorching hot, the binding suddenly ripping apart, tattered silk flying everywhere. His legs wrapped around hers, spreading them wide. Forelegs pulled them close together, holding Elle against his chest as he began to thrust with vigor, hilting each time. 

“F-fuck, Elle…” 

She couldn’t help it and laughed. 

“What?” He swallowed, brows raised. 

“It’s just… The first time you’ve ever called me by my first name.” And if she had her way, it would be said several more times. 

She stayed close as she felt the pleasure building, her high-pitched gasps filling his ears. The noise encouraged him further and he pushed as much of himself into her as possible, before yelping when she clenched. 

Back arching, Elle shuddered as the orgasm hit. The sudden change made Wrecks flinch. His legs dug into her like nails as his own body trembled, the stimulation too much. His cock twitched, fluid spilling out of her and onto the bed. 

And just kept coming. 

“Ah!” She yelped, trying to disentangle herself and save the blankets. 

She should have laid down towels! What was she thinking? The more she struggled, the tighter Wrecks’ hold became.

“S-sorry. It’s for a clutch, remember?” His legs twitched, holding her in place until he finished. "I'm not holding you like this on purpose." His cheeks flared. "I have to make sure you, uh, get... Fertilized. Even if it's not possible."

Once he released her, she pulled him onto the floor. Switching on her fan, she let the cool air roll over them as they tried to catch their breath. 

“Are you okay?” He brushed damp wisps of hair from her face. 

“I’m fine.” She chuckled, smiling. “I guess that’s one thing off my ‘fuck-it’ list.” 

“Your what!?” 

With wobbly legs, she managed to get to the bathroom and rinse off, barely able to stand for the short shower. 

When she came out, he had an unlit cigarette in his mouth and was trying to clean the comforter with a wet rag. 

And bleach.

“Wrecks!” She about full-body tackled him. 

“I was trying to fix it!” He said awkwardly around the cigarette. His front legs twitched, pulling her into an awkward embrace as they wrapped around her thighs, just under her rear. “Because I wanted to… Try again.” 

Elle felt herself blushing, even more so when she saw the head start to peek out from the slit again. Swallowing, she retrieved towels from the bathroom while he tossed the comforter to the side. 

“Okay. But we’re going to do it right this time. And you still have to smoke outside.” 

"I can't believe it took me this long to realize it! I feel so stupid!," she groans, plopping into one of the little chairs.

"What? Realize what Elli?" you ask your sister as Cavan and Luctux go over their plans.

"Father loves tradition right? And as the eldest daughter marrying the only son of another family means?" she holds her breath, grin plastered to her face.

It's so obvious even you feel stupid for not realizing it, "I'll be marrying into their family... Father will have to give me up."

You feel so giddy and then guilty...

Both you and Cavan finally felt comfortable with each other again after that stressful night of confessing and doing some 'venting' as you both decided to refer to it. You can happily admit that yes, you are in love with him. The falling in love phase didn't last long until your heart was caught in his hands. You want to take things slow still, grow this budding relationship but there's this strange need to get closer.

"Any way, that'll save your hide from working in the family business. Luctux has something worked out for Cavan, but the both of you will need to decide if you want to get married before he leaves or when he gets back," Elli adds.

You were holding a mug of tea and then you weren't. It didn't shatter but the thud was loud enough to quiet the cabin. You can't tell if it's from the aspect of marriage or from Cavan leaving but the shock of it made you stiff. The guys look over at you and you carefully sit down across from your sister.

"We should give them some time to talk things over Lady Elli," Luctux nods his head towards the door and your sister sighs in agreement.

She slides a hand over your shoulder as she leaves, "There's always a catch and the fine print is very thin. There's no loophole in this one, I've simmered long enough on it."

"Thank you Elli... I know you'd tell me if there was another way," you smile up at your sister.

She and Luctux excuse themselves, the little cabin quiet now. Cavan is at your side, his long finger skimming up your arm, "Do you want to go for a walk? It's a nice day out today."

"Are you asking to avoid talking about this or do you think some fresh air will help," you sigh.

"You know me too well sunshine, but no, I don't plan on avoiding this. We're both in too deep now and honestly and despite everything that's happened, I wouldn't change a thing. I'm glad you pushed me into confessing to you. I'm glad I suggested a fake engagement. I'm glad that I got your first kiss. Hells I'm glad for the stern talk both of our fathers gave me at the party. I love you and I'm glad that you finally know," he lowers himself and takes your hand, kissing your knuckles.

You don't say anything when you stand, too afraid to open your mouth in fear that you might start crying. You have to follow through with this now, there's really no way out and yet deep deep down you're more afraid to admit that you don't feel stuck and that this plan grants you more freedom than you ever dared to dream. The only problem is that one way or another you'd be getting married.

Cavan gives you his arm for you to take but you brush passed him and go straight to the door. You open it and look back to him, his face unreadable and his fiery eyes stare hard and unblinking. You grip your dress realizing that you just dismissed him, the first time since the both of you have become a couple.

"I'm sorry I'm just a bit...A bit...a bit...-"

You start to sway and barely catch the door frame as your knees give out. Cavan scrambles to help you up, "I know this is tough, I know you don't like this and the last thing you want to do is get married to me but neither of us have been able to come up with anything better."

He picks you up and holds you in his arms. You feel terrible, worse than ever. It's not that hate the idea of marrying him, you just hate marriage because all your life it's meant being tied down and anything but free. And now it's your only choice on freedom. You can't help but laugh.

"I don't want to get married at all. I don't want what's expected of the wife. I don't want to be referred to as my someone's wife by other people as if I don't have my own identity! It's terrifying!" you cry, letting go fear after fear you've built up about marriage over the years.

You cry for a good while, not even realizing that Cavan's been walking away from the cabin and into the woods. He's quiet and lets you air out all your grievances and everything that scares the daylights out of you. When you finally stop you feel lighter, like you just dropped two loaded bags of fabric packed to the brim after carrying the for days on end.

Cavan rubs your cheek, drying the tears off one by one, "I didn't know that human marriage was that...terrifying. I had no idea, but-" he pauses and clears his throat, "Drider marriage is terrifying for me because well it's what you're expected of but in reverse...What I mean to say is that by human standards I'd have more of the wifely duties."

For some reason you imagine Cavan doing 'wifely' things and it just seems weird. You try and then imagine yourself doing them but that just makes you feel sick. And then you try picturing both of you just doing things together, working on your crafts, arguing over whose turn it is to do dishes and laughing while making dinner together, that seems oddly and almost right.

"Our traditions don't like each other very much," you comment.

He nods in agreement, "Then if we're going to make this work, maybe we'll have to come up with our own. That's what my parents had to do when they moved up here on the surface. They both hate Drider traditions but for some reason they hang onto get married and have a family when you're of age."

You sigh and look away from him. He's brought you right back to the little lake he 'proposed' to you at. It looks so different in the daylight but still charming. His web from then is gone, strands of it stick to the branches and grass.

"I just feel so...I don't know...Just like we're being forced into doing this because it's what our parents want, what society expects of us," you bite your cheek and slump in his arms.

"And I didn't help by suggesting a fake engagement- Ah no, no I know what you're going to say that 'you thought it would help' but I already told you what my intentions were and they're selfish, they didn't help and now deep down in your heart you probably resent me for it," he grimaces, his words having a harsh bite to them.

Cavan sets you down but still holds you like he's scared you'll still fall. The pressure in your chest builds and you stumble forward a little but you quickly find your balance and try and back out of his arms.

"I'm fine now, I just needed a moment. You know how I get when I'm emotionally overwhelmed," you feign a smile and try to shrug his hands off.

He doesn't let you go and you start to get worried. His face is a mess of expressions and his grip on you tightens until you feel him start sinking to the ground. He starts crying and apologizing, his hands grabbing at his hair and your dress. You don't know what to do but you can't stand seeing him like this.

"Cavan," you whisper, slipping to your knees and taking him in your arms. "We both messed up ok. You might have suggested it but I did agree to it. Maybe I put too much faith in you that it would be a good idea or maybe I was ok with pretending I'd be marrying my best friend. I will never-" you pause to lift his head up, his sunfire eyes blurry from tears and his freckled face looks puffy, "I will never resent you. Get annoyed with you maybe..." you smile, "Possibly ban you to sleep in a web by yourself if you get to be too much, but never could I ever in all my life resent you."

He nods his head but doesn't say anything, his face is still set in a pout. You kiss his cheek and he encases you in his arms.

"I'm the worst friend in the world," he moans.

"So what are you going to do about it?" you ask, it feels uncharacteristically of you to say but you feel like you and he are going in circles with blame and emotions. Now's the time for action as Elli would put it.

Cavan doesn't say anything and he's completely still. At first you think he's stunned by the question until he pulls back and looks at you. His face is still puffy but his eyes are drier, "I don't know, but I don't want to keep feeling like this. I want to be better, if only for you. I just don't know what to do or how to fix this"

"Then think about it, maybe while you're gone," you brush a strand of hair from his face and swallow hard as you try to gather your courage for what you have to say, what needs to be said. "I think this whole marriage thing can wait...Elli did sort of give us some time and maybe that's what we need. Maybe you won't come back and decide you like being on the road. Maybe my father will see how great a seamstress I am and leave me alone and hand the business off to Elli. Maybe we'll miss each other so much that I beg for you to come back or you ask me to join you. Who knows? But I think we need this."

He grimaces and hangs his head for a moment, back legs tapping in an annoyed contemplation. He knows you're right, knows that some distance will provide some perspective and maybe all the right answers. When he finally does look back up there's a quiet resolve in his eyes, "Some time and some distance but not silence. I'll write to you as often as I can. I don't think I'd be able to stand not telling you everything I see and what all I can accomplish out there."

You wrap your arms around him, "Of course you're going to write to me and I'll write back!"

"And I'm guessing you'll want souvenirs?" Cavan asks, the playful lilt in his voice returning. It makes you feel calm, calmer than you've been since this all started.

"Maybe some fabric from Brakkor if you're ever up that way," you chuckle.

"Fine but I hope you plan on making a heavy coat for me in return after all I hate the cold," he pinches your sides and you jump back.

He laughs, for the first time today he finally laughs and you just want to let him know how much you enjoy hearing it. You grab his face and crush your lips against his. He moans against your touch and runs his hands along your back. You can't believe that after knowing him so long it took you this long to know the shape of his lips against yours and the feel of his fingers against your skin and now you'd be letting it go, possibly forever.

The thought alone makes your desperate for more. You start unbuttoning his shirt with trembling hands until Cavan moves them away, quickly removing the offensive thing and other clothing both off of you and he.

His usual gentle hands hold you hard against him, his touches heavier and kisses having a bit more bite to them.

"My Sunshine," he growls into your ear making you shiver. He scrapes his teeth against your neck and bites down before sucking hard. Your knees buckle but his hold on you is enough to keep you up.

All the softness and gentle exploration you and he had given to each other is gone. You want him to burn you with his touch so you can remember how it feels when he's gone. You want to give him just as much as he's giving you so that he won't be able to keep you from his thoughts while on the road. If this engagement was his selfish desire then it's high time you express yours.

You feel up and down his body until your hand comes to his cock. It's harder than its ever been and dripping in precum. He hisses when you grab it and stills when you turn and kiss his cheek, "My Cavan."

He scrambles to get up off the ground with you in his arms and you giggle when he nearly trips. Your legs wrap around his hips and you can feel his cock sliding against your folds.

"I want you now, I want you today," you moan.

"Always, I want you always," he responds as he lowers you onto his cock.

You feel tight as he rocks his hips and enters you. His grip on your hips tightens as he starts to thrust into you. Your nails drag up his arms and dig into his shoulders eliciting a delicious growl. You want to hear more of that. You dig the heel of your foot between the mirror like scales on his spider half which makes him nearly collapse.

Cavan pulls out of you and dislodges your legs from his hips and sets you down long enough for him to flip over. He lays before you naked, hard and wanting. His cock slick and his eyes are hazed with a heavy lust that see only you.

Slowly you walk up to him, slowly you straddle him, and slowly you lower yourself onto him feeling that burn you need before he leaves you.

Always...

You rock your hips and a fire starts to ignite inside you. This is nothing like your first few nights with him where everything had been testing and trying, this was all want and need and knowing. His pale pastel green skin starts to become soaked in sweat as you keep moving your hips. Cavan growls when you run your nails across his chest and you feel yourself tighten against him just from that delicious sound.

Cavan grabs your hips and thrusts into you, making you fall against him. His thrusts are relentless and you're gasping and moaning as you grip his shoulders. He growls again when your nails scrape his skin, accidentally taking a little flesh. You try and apologize but he silences you with a kiss, growling into your mouth. You tighten around him and it takes everything in him to pull you off before he cums inside you.

He's gasping for air like a fish out of water, his bright fire like curls stick to his face and his beautiful sun scorching eyes watch you as you stand. You're a bit wobbly and still in need. Cavan grabs one of your legs and guides you till you're standing over his face.

"Let me taste your nectar and drown in your warmth," he smiles up at you, tugging you down. Your legs shiver as his fingers glide up your skin. He groans when you settle on his face but it quickly turns into a growl when he licks against your folds. You feel yourself coming undone again and he's barely just begun.

You brace yourself, hands grabbing at grass as he eats you out. It feels amazing and you come undone over and over again. You try and tell him, try and cry out that you can't take much more but it only encourages him to continue as he holds you in place.

Unable to take it anymore you grab a fistful of his hair and try to pull him away only for him to go stiff as he lets out a dark growl against you. The stars you saw long ago suddenly fade from light to dark.

Cavan is holding you to him when you come to, his eyes are closed and the sun is starting to set. You sit up or at least try to, falling back into his arms. He wakes with a startle and lets out a breathy laugh when he looks at you.

"You taste amazing my Sunshine," he grins.

You can't help but to bust out laughing, "I'd say so, you wouldn't let me go."

"I'll never let you go. Even if after all our time apart you don't want me, I will never want for another. I will never love another. You are my light, my sun that never sets," he brushes a hand against your cheek, his eyes staring right at yours.

"And you are my fire that I will always yearn for. No other will keep me warm like you and no other will I wish to be burned by," you reach out and cup his cheek, he leans into your touch.

"Your heart is my hearth then," he pulls you in close and kisses you ever so softly.

"Then your heart is the sky in which I shine," you kiss his the palm of his hand that's been resting against your cheek.

"Ma'am if we keep going on like this I'll have to reach for quill and ink for you my muse keep speaking words so sweet," he grins then pinches your cheek.

"I'm going to miss you and your cheesy poetry," you giggle.

"You love my cheesy poetry though," he kisses your nose.

"I love you and everything you do," you poke him.

"You love me?" his face lights up and he gives you a bit of a dorky grin.

"I do," you say, realizing that this is the first time you've said it. "I love you Cavan."

He scrambles to get up and quickly pulls you to your feet, hugging you closely.

"She loves me!" he shouts. "You hear that?! She loves me!"

The both of you start laughing, naked and covered in grass, but you couldn't be bothered. Cavan is overwhelmingly happy and it's contagious. You kiss him long and hard and in between laughter and sighs. You're so happy right now, so happy that it hurts.

~~~

After a long while and several minutes of playing 'where did my shirt go' you and Cavan make it back to the cabin. It's pretty late and you have to rely on him to guide you since you can't see in the dark. He sets you on the bed as he goes throughout the small retreat and lights the candles and lamps.

"Tea?" he asks from the kitchen.

"Yes please and enough sugar to attract the butterflies and bees," you reply.

You get up and go to the wash basin to clean off the grass stains and dirt. Your white dress will need a lot of care and repair after your outing today. Your face heats up just thinking about it and the fact that someone could have heard you or worse...seen you.

The water in the basin will need to be thrown out and replaced you think after you hang the rag you used. Cavan was covered in grass, his hair donning a green crown when he sat up. He'd need to scrub off too.

"Our families will probably want to speak with us soon about the wedding," Cavan says as he brings in a couple mugs of steaming hot tea.

"Yes unfor-," you pause and swallow your words. "Yes, I'm pretty sure they'll be crossed when we tell them it'll be postponed till you return from questing for gold."

"Not as crossed as your father will be when he hears that my mom's going to be stealing you as her apprentice," he snickers.

"You might want to bring back a lot of souvenirs to appease the in laws, especially Elli," you laugh.

"Heavens forbid I upset your sister," Cavan snorts.

"We might have to leave town if that happens," you take a sip of the tea he gave you.

He goes quiet for a minute, allowing the tea to occupy his mouth. You know you'll have to break it to your parents soon, your mother and sister will be understanding, maybe his parents too, but your father is a different story.

"Tomorrow, we should tell them tomorrow," Cavan sighs.

You look out the window and nod in agreement, "Yes, it'll be for the best if we don't put it off. The sooner we bring it up, the sooner they'll get over it."

"Just have Elli at the ready though, your father terrifies me," he chuckles.

You smile and start talking about tomorrow and what to probably expect. Cavan tells you how adamant his mother will be about working you to the bone, which you both laugh at because you'd never tire with something you love.

Cavan suggests turning in after dinner and getting an early start on what is to be a very very long day.

~~~

As you had hoped Elli had come up with a perfectly solid back up for Cavan leaving and you getting married when he returns. Luctux had apparently somehow and someway endeared himself to your family in your absence and assured them that this would be a great opportunity to have Cavan advertise for his future in-law's business.

Your father seems to agree until Elli reminds him that she'd be eventually taking the reigns of it instead of you. He seems genuinely disappointed and steps out for a while. All in all your family is on board with postponing the wedding till Cavan returns, as long as you keep up with planning it.

After sometime your father returns but asks to speak with you alone. Cavan gives your hand a reassuring squeeze and a smile as he and the others get up to leave. Your father takes a seat across from you, his brow knit in frustration.

"I know you're old friends and I can clearly see he cares for you, loves you, but that doesn't put food on the table daughter," he sighs. "I love your mother and when I took her hand in marriage we were still struggling. I was still wet behind the ears when it came to the trade business and I was barely able to bring in enough for the both of us and then she became pregnant with you and...I just don't want to see struggle like I did. I want my family to have everything."

The lines on your father's face that always made him look harsh seem to be a bit softer. Your mom told you she ran off with your father but you didn't know what that entailed.

"I know love alone doesn't bring in the money or put food on the table or pay taxes, but it does make you want for better for your family. You worked hard to provide for us but I need to follow my heart and my own path. I was never cut out for this and you know it," you give your father a sure smile.

He chuckles and for what seems like an eternity to you see the kind hearted and overly doting father you used to know. He spoiled you and your sister relentlessly and now you kind of know why.

"I wanted to give this business to you so much so I forgot why. I wanted you to be happy and taken care of, but you were never happy sitting in the office going over trade deals. I was upset but you were miserable and that made it worse. Your mother gave me an earful when she found out about the suitors I selected by the way," he rubs his ears and smiles.

"You deserved it," you cross your arms.

Your father lets out a hardy laugh and slaps his knee, "Ahh, I suppose I did. I went to far with that I admit. Thinking back on it now, I wasn't only upsetting you but betraying everything your mother stands for."

He explains himself further and apologizes for the years of distance he's put between you and he with work and marriage. You talk and talk but eventually you have to leave to go confront Cavan's family about his departure.

Your father hugs you and you almost cry because of how genuine it feels and how you've long for him to be just your father again and not your boss telling you to hurry up and get wed.

Cavan and Luctux are waiting outside the estate when you step out, both talking over about supplies and where they'd go.

"So how did it go?" Cavan asks.

"Surprisingly well. I think my mom chewed him out a bit too much though because he actually gave me a hug," you laugh.

Cavan's eyes go wide and Luctux feigns being aghast.

"Well onto your family I suppose," you point.

"I feel like they're going to be more difficult to win over than yours," he sighs.

Iris and Gohar welcome you both into their home wanting to hear if you made any wedding plans yet, especially about the dress and jewelry. Cavan tried to calm his mother down but she's already going on and on about fabrics and colors and laces. You look to Gohar who is wearing a soft smile while watching Iris fuss over dress designs.

Cora walks in from the workshop with a hand over her chest and she looks to you a bit distressed, "Is it true that you two are planning on postponing the wedding?"

Cavan's parents go quiet at her question and look to both you and your fiancé.

"Yes, but not for anything bad I promise. I have an opportunity to make some extra coin as well as endear myself to the future in-laws," he gives his parents a reassuring smile but they don't seem to bite.

"I'm sure there's something you can do closer to home to earn extra coin, your father will need help with polishing stones since bridal season is upon us and and-" Iris pouts and looks to Gohar who sighs.

"Do ya have to leave son?" he asks, "It's dangerous out there and our kind isn't always welcomed. We were lucky to find a home here and to maintain stable jobs. Please if not for us, but for her."

Gohar looks over to you, his eyes the same sunfire as Cavan's but worn with time to resemble polished sunstones.

"He needs this Mr. Vitra and not just for coin or family. He's always been here in Gilli and knows little of the world outside aside from the occasional news," you smile trying to reassure him and you. "And besides, he did promise to send me souvenirs such as fabric from Brakkor."

You smile over at Iris who nods her head, "I hope he plans on only getting the best or I'll have to lecture him on quality when he returns."

"Buy some opal while you're up there then and maybe some of that whiskey I keep hearing good things about," Gohar adds.

"Oh and some dyes imported from the Hildaren continent, they're so much richer than what we get here," Cora chimes in.

His family starts overwhelming him with a laundry list of things to send home while he's on the road. At some point Iris grabs quill and ink and starts writing everything down until there's a four foot long scroll of 'some of this and some of that'.

Cora and Gohar go over a possible allowance to send his ever so often and purchasing sending stones or a messenger bird. Iris asks if there would be a possibility in using your family's trade posts during his time out but you tell her you'd have to run it by your father and Elli.

"But isn't the business going to pass onto you? You'd have some say in it right?" she asks you.

"No, marrying the only son of another family means me stepping down," you smile, hoping she'll pick up on what you're dropping.

She blinks a couple times and when Cora's face lights up does she finally understand, "Oh oh! Does this mean I finally get to have you as my apprentice?! Oh Gohar did you hear!?"

He winces at her shrieking excitement but gives a smiling nod, "Good timing too, this year's bridal season will be a doozy. Already got twenty orders in and my fingers are barking at me like mad dogs. Will be good to have an extra pair of hands on deck."

"Just don't run her off with stories from your youth dad," Cavan teases.

His father goes into details of his time before he met Iris and stole her and Cora away from a Drider colony near the southern coast. He was working for an infamous pirate captain at the time who worked with the merfolk near Melmar. Story after story about gold and glorious battles and how he eventually got an eye for quality stones and minerals.

Cora and Iris have to practically shove food in his mouth to get him to shut up and you nearly double over laughing at how ridiculous they look. Cavan lets out a relieved sigh at the peace and skitters over to you.

"Not what I had expected but at least they're not tying me down and forcing me to stay here... And did you really have to coax them into letting me leave with shopping? You know my father is going to want an entire barrel of that Brakkor whiskey now," he laughs, warping an arm around your waist.

Iris and Gohar invite you to stay for dinner but you promised you'd meet up with Luctux at the pub in town later this evening to further discuss traveling plans. Before you leave though you invite his family to join yours for a dinner the night before Cavan leaves.

I'll have to talk to Elli about this now...

You and Cavan decide to spend the rest of your alone time just wondering the main square and going over how he'll send you letters and how you'll send them back. Luctux eventually waves the both of you down and you meet with him a little earlier than expected.

"Your sister works fast, faster than I thought possible. We'll be able to leave soon," he tells tells the both of you.

"How soon is soon?" you ask.

"Three days give or take. We're good to go on our end but Mr. Felix seems to want to send us off with trade deals to go over with some people he's been trying to get in touch with. Says they're a bit old school and like a face to face conversation. Having his future son in-law and a Voxis go over trade deals will be interesting," Luctux snorts and flags down one of the girls at the pub.

"Is there something wrong with being a Voxis?" you ask.

"Not exactly but those in the trade know the name. The house of Voxis is old and is the biggest name in trade on the Hildaren continent. Much like you, myself and my cousin Arthok had no delight in the family business. I managed to get out alright but the poor kid has it rough," he sighs, excusing himself for making the girl wait to take his order.

Luctux buys a round of drinks and dinner for all three of you. Cavan and you ask the tiefling a bit more about what to expect on the road and how often do you think he'd run into trouble. You can tell he's trying to sugarcoat things, that's one thing you've learned from the trade industry. He's probably worried that you'll try and stop Cavan if you know how dangerous it is out there but you don't want to hold him back. You have your path and he has his, hopefully one day your paths will meet up again.

The night goes on and you both walk Luctux to the inn he's been staying at.

"Three days huh?" you take Cavan's hand and give it a squeeze.

"Give or take," he squeezes back and pulls you close to him.

"I had though maybe a week or two... I guess the sooner you leave the sooner you'll get back," you smile, trying to fight back the tears you didn't know you'd been fighting.

Cavan brings your hand up to his lips and kisses your knuckles, "Nothing in this world will keep me from coming back to you. Your heart is my hearth and you my home. I'll be nothing but a raging wild fire out there if anyone dares to stop me from returning to you."

You give him a smile and stand on your tiptoes to give him a kiss, "Whenever you feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, that's me giving you a kiss and a hug. I'll be with you if only in spirit."

He crushes his lips to yours with a need so great that you feel it in your heart. That night you spend hours touching and holding, memorizing the lines and curves of each other.

~~~

Elli managed to put together a wonderful going away dinner for Cavan. Both of your families were dressed to the nines and Luctux wore his finest suit and jewels. The dinner was perhaps the nicest time you've had with your family in years and both Gohar and your father told stories back to back with Iris and your mother rolling their eyes with each one. Your sister and Cora exchanged a few words about the upcoming events and some strange rumors of griffin hunters in the south.

The next day you were a bit out of sorts, not having slept a wink just to stay awake to see Cavan off. He looks dashing in his gear, like a real adventurer though the bow and arrows did scare you a bit. You hope he doesn't have to use them unless he's hunting.

You didn't realize how hard it would be to say goodbye, to watch him walk away and leave for the great unknown. You held him a bit longer than you meant to, kissed him more than you probably were supposed to and walked with him to the edge of the woods making it harder for you to let him go.

"I'll write you when we settle for the night. Wait for me my Sunshine," he cups your cheek, smoothing the tears out from the corner of your eye.

"Everyday I'll wait. My heart goes with you Cavan," you try and smile, hiding yourself in his palm.

Luctux gives the both of you a few more minutes before he tears Cavan from you, promising to make him sit down and write to you the second they start setting up camp.

Hours pass and you're sitting in your old room at the estate. Elli and your mom had started to help you pack your things to move into the house that Gohar and Iris had bought for when Cavan got married. It's rather large, much bigger than theirs too. Your father promised the second you get your things in there he'd be over with a furniture catalogue for you to go through.

All of it sounds like a wonderful distraction from this ache you're feeling in your heart. It hasn't even been a day and you're already longing for Cavan to return.

A small scroll poofs to existence in front of you and lands on your lap. You quickly scramble to open and read it.

My Dearest Sunshine,

Hardly out of Gilli and someone had the nerve to try and rob us! Luctux took charge and the men ran off with bits missing and less coin than before, what my companion calls 'an inconvenience fee'. It's dark out here save for the light of the moon and the fire he taught me how to build. I have much to learn out here and people he'd like me to meet. I'm excited and nervous, but I'm happy that I can do this. Happy that you pushed me to do this. Tomorrow when the sun rises and you kiss me that I send one back to you.

Forever yours,

Cavan

You swallow hard and hold the letter to your chest.

~~~

The first few months had been steady. You'd receive a letter once a week with updates on his ventures and where he's been and what he's been up to. Along the lines his two person party grew to three than five and now seven. He seems to have issues with the new guy, a naga from the south who's a bit of a downer he says.

After a while though, the letters became rarer. You'd get one once maybe every other week or once a month. Cavan doesn't go into great detail but they're being followed by some people.

Now it's been a bit over a year and the last letter you received was a month ago.

You had kept yourself busy with work, last year's bridal season being the busiest right next to the eclipse viewing. You'd come home tired and too worn to care that you were alone in this empty and lifeless house. Sure it's nicely furnished now but there's no one to go home to and no one to hold when you go to sleep.

The desk by your bed is stuffed to the brim with letters from Cavan and the trunk at the end holds pallets of fabrics he's sent you. You've sent him a few things over the past couple of months, mostly clothes and sometimes food stuff for when his party is in short supply.

You're worried that he and his friends got into some trouble and that's why you haven't heard from him but you don't even want to think about that. Gohar reassures you that some silence is normal and he's surprised that he kept in contact with you so much thus so far.

Part of you wants to believe him but another part of you fears for the worst.

Another couple of months pass and you've only received one letter and it's from Luctux. Your heart sinks when you read it. The party had been attacked and more than half of them are injured including Cavan. He took the most damage but in doing so he saved the lives of several people. You're proud of him for his heroism but sickened with grief.

Your heart sinks again as the summer bridal season comes to and end. You've made so many wonderful dresses along with Iris and Cora, all of them inspiring your own that the three of you keep redesigning. It gives you some small hope but it's not enough.

The house you go home to feels more and more empty every time you pass through those doors, every time you wake up alone in your bed, and every time you stand in the kitchen drinking your tea, alone.

It's been nearly two years now, you haven't received a letter since Luctux sent one to you. No one mentions Cavan or your wedding or your dress to you. Your father who had asked you to come back to the estate then stopped bothering you about it all together. Elli makes her weekly visits to gossip and help keep your spirits up but eventually she stops coming around.

You throw yourself into your work, quickly rising in your talent as a seamstress. People ask for you by name and for the first time in months you feel good about yourself again. You turn one of the rooms in your house into your own studio and start taking your own clients.

Iris and Cora are so proud of you and Gohar gifts you a pair of bejeweled sheers that remind you of your lost fiancé. That night you cry over him for the first time in months.

You have a couple new clients coming in today, Mrs. Roslyn and her daughter who recently moved up here with her adopted son and an old friend. Mrs. Roslyn wanted her daughter to fit right in here in Gilli so she wants you to prepare a few dresses for her for some upcoming events. It's a standard consultation, five dresses and accessories to match which you'll run by Gohar. You lay out fabric for her to choose from but you feel as if none of them quite fit her exciting personality.

The fabric pallets you have upstairs in your room are all gorgeous and lively and they deserve to be worn by someone who exudes life. With a heavy heart you excuse yourself to retrieve the fabrics you've hoarded.

Mrs. Roslyn and her daughter are delighted with the colors and patterns you return with. Their smiles bring you a hollow joy though. You realize that you're a bit jealous, unable to share a moment like this with the people you love.

Over the next few days you go over designs with the ladies and get measurements. The dresses will be bold and new, nothing like the old trends you, Iris, and Cora have grown bored with. Gohar is excited too, the sets for these dresses are out of his comfort zone but he finally gets to use some stones that he hasn't used in years.

One evening after putting the finishing touches on the dress for the summer social you decide to go for a walk and stretch your legs. Gilli is always so lively at night and tonight is no exception, Mrs. Roslyn is out watching her new grandson play with the town's band. He's a bit of an odd one out since you rarely see orcs here, but he fits right in and is highly social.

You watch the band play for a few minutes before continuing on. You pass up old shops you haven't visited in months and people you haven't talked to in a while. They nod their heads and give you a polite smile but move on. Your feet eventually bring you to the edge of the woods. You hadn't dared to come here since Cavan left.

One step and then another and suddenly you're strolling down memory lane. The woods have pretty much stayed the same since he's left and the cabin...

The cabin looks cold and dead with thick vines lacing around it. The rose bushes you planted there years ago have overgrown and look more gnarly than natural. You pull the vines away from the door and quietly step inside.

The mess from when you and Cavan stayed here is still shows through the dust and mold. You meant to come back here so many times and clean it up, but you always felt sick at the thought of being here alone. You walk around and remember all the little big things that happened here. Finding out he loves you, falling into his arms countless of times, and crying over his departure.

You try and feel something for those old days but nothing comes to heart. You've cried so many times over him, over what could have been, should have been that your numb to any memory of you and he.

Unable to stand this emptiness you decide to leave the cabin. Stepping out you swear you see a ghost in the moonlight. Standing before you is a Drider who reminds you so much of Cavan. His hair is long and tied back, resting on his shoulders it looks like fire. Two of his eyes are scarred over, their color a opal white. His lips quiver and his eyes blur with tears suddenly. He falls to the ground and mutters something between tears you can barely hear.

"My hearth... My Sunshine..."

Your chest tightens and you dare to step towards this stranger but stop when a large wolf comes between you. You stumble back and trip backwards on a rock nearly twisting your ankle as you go down. The wolf growls at you and the Drider tells it too back down. You realize you're trembling when he offers you a hand and when he helps you up, he pulls you into a hug.

You're too stunned to say anything and stunned even more when he says your name.

"I'm sorry I took so long..." he cries, holding you tighter. "I'm sorry...so sorry...My hearth.... My Sunshine... My home..."

He cries against your shoulder, his fingers digging into you and his fiery hair tickles your skin. No one but Cavan had called you Sunshine and here's this stranger who looks so much like him...

"Cavan?" you ask, your voice only a whisper.

He moves away from you and straightens as best as he can while holding you.

"Is it really you? Have you finally come back?" you reach up and trace his face with your hands.

"Your heart is my hearth and I have burned my way back to you," he takes your hands and holds them to your face. His tired eyes are alight with a flame that refuses to go out. His pale pastel green skin is covered in freckles and scars. Fiery hair that once framed his face is pulled back in a way that reminds you of the tail of a nightmare.

"My fire... My Cavan...," you whimper, your hands shaking against his cheeks. He nods and as if there had been distance between you at all his lips crash against yours. You know this feeling, you remember it for all the warmth it had brought you years prior.

You wrap your arms and legs around him as he picks you up. His hands grip you tightly to him as he deepens the kiss. The euphoria you feel almost drowns out all the hurt and pain he caused you, almost made you forget the months of silence. You push away from him and nearly fall but he catches you.

"No letters! No notes! Not even a single bird that you were coming back!?! Cavan we thought you were dead! You can't just come back into my life and expect everything to be ok now because it's not! I've been living in what was supposed to be our home alone for the last two years! I have been alone for two years waiting for you. Your letters were the only thing holding me together and suddenly they vanish... Where have you been?" you cry, your eyes stinging with tears.

"I've... I've been...," he swallows hard, his body shakes and you can tell somethings wrong. "I've been in another plane. Trapped. It happened shortly after this-" he points to his now blind eyes and then sweeps a hand over his shirt, pulling it up to show you the gash. "I had just said my goodbyes to the party when Luctux heard something terrible rip through the air. Not food here broke our fall when we landed in...when-" he shakes his head and tries to calm his breathing. "It was hell at the end of the day and we barely made it out alive."

His face twists and his eyes close as he sways a little, "Luctux and I have been in Delglen the past couple of months healing. We had no money nor means and the people there are poor. The moment I got better I started back home."

He sways a bit more and winces, his shoulders coming up high. You back away and see that he's bleeding heavily from his side. Cavan grunts and collapses, his hands reaching for you but reeling back to the pain. You tell him that you're going to go get some help but he tries to keep you, tries to hold you to him.

As much as it hurts you to pull away from him after all this time you'd rather him be alive. You run out of the woods and into the town square. You spot Elli and flag her down, telling her that Cavan is back but he's injured and needs help now. Elli rounds up and rescue team with in minutes with his parents and aunt taking the lead. By the time you make it back to the woods Cavan is laying in a puddle of blood and the wolf is curled around his head.

You have to explain that the wolf is his 'pet' to get them to come any closer and help him up. One of the town doctors peels his shirt off and quickly cleans and dresses the wound on his side, saying it should suffice until tomorrow when the others can come and further examine him.

Everyone helps get him to your home, Iris and Gohar help get him upstairs and into your bed. It had been too big for you these past couple of years and now it looks so small. You and Iris play tag team that night on staying up and monitoring his condition.

As the doctor stated, he and a few others come by to look at his wound. They say its deep and he's lucky to be alive with how much he bled out. They prepare medicines and potions to help close the wound but there's more to it. It's cursed and festering and only a cleric can heal something like that.

You tell your father and sister who you know has connections everywhere and hope they can call someone in. Days pass and Cavan worsens, his blood turning thick and dark like mud and his beautiful eyes are dull and all of them look nearly as pale as his blind ones. You try your best to comfort him everyday but it's never enough.

One morning as you're bringing up clean warm towels to wipe him down there's a knock at your door.

"Is this the Vitra-Maher residence?" the short figure asks.

"Eh yes it is...Can I help you si-"

"No time for pleasantries, we can get to that later! Where's that dunderhead spider boy?" he points a cane this way and that way.

"Oh uh... Upstairs, first room on the left," you scramble to his side. "Are you a cleric by chance?"

"Nay, just a paladin my lady. Call me Charlie," he slaps a hand to his chest as he starts up the stairs.

You've never met a gnome much less a paladin but he seems damned determined to help.

"Heard about the nasty little curse plaguing me old friend. Dunderhead for not telling you to call for me. Absolute dolt! I ought to give him a what for when he's better just to let 'im know he's a pillock!" he hollers and shakes a fist in the air.

You show Charlie to the room and the gnome lets out a long and sad ohhh. He takes off his long white cloak, revealing shinning armor and a glowing pouch. He opens it and takes out a small pinch of the stuff and rubs it all over his hands. You watch him work as he removes the wraps until his wound is uncovered. A sickening wet shlop sound quiets the room, you know what's happening, his festering wound is bleeding out like thick mud and it must have hit the floor.

Charlie starts chanting and the room begins to feel light and the horrid smell of blood and muck seems to be gone. His chanting lasts minutes and you dare to open your eyes. A swarm on light dips in and out of his side as if mending the flesh and destroying the curse all at once.

The gnome finishes his chanting and horrifies you by slapping Cavan's side a good couple of times.

"That ought to do it! Now we wait for this dunder head to wake... Better yet-" he reaches into another pouch and pulls out a small vial and uncorks it under Cavan's nose.

Immediately he starts gaging and his eyes water as he sits up. He squints and looks down at Charlie who is smirking at the Drider.

"Morning ya dunderhead," he beams.

"Charlie?" he blinks then quickly looks around the room until his eyes land on you.

"Sunshine..." he smiles.

You smile back and quickly make your way to his side. Charlie excuses himself, saying you'll find him in the kitchen. You try and thank him before he leaves but Cavan squeezes the breath right out of your lungs.

"Cavan your wound!" you try and push off.

"It's fine... I'm fine... Who am I kidding? I'm more than fine! I'm home and I'm with you again!" he nuzzles against your chest and you feel him shiver.

It takes a while for him to calm down long enough for him to explain the absolute nightmare of a time he's been through. He spent nearly a year in one of the rings of hell which for him has been nearly a decade. You couldn't imagine how hard the transition has been thinking so much time has passed when it's been even less than it.

He explains what he had to do to escape, how it'll probably haunt him to the end of his days but he's free and he's home.

~~~

A month has come and gone and it feels like you can finally breathe again. You finished those dresses for Mrs. Roslyn's daughter despite having to care for Cavan.

Iris and Cora would come by everyday to help him get up and down the stairs for the first two weeks until his strength had returned. Some nights were touch and go though with his nightmares waking him up at odd hours and you'd have to comfort him back to sleep.

This isn't the Cavan you remember, the soft poet childhood friend, but he's still the Cavan you fell in love with. Passionate and still poetic, he had matured over the years but you feel in the way he touches you and holds you that you were in his heart the entire time.

He gives you a choice to postpone the wedding again, saying it's been so long and he's not the same person. You knew for sure he wasn't the same when he asked his father to teach him his trade. You were awestruck when he said that he wants to be the one designing the jewelry that goes along with your dresses.

Cavan had changed, that's for sure, but not his love for you.

"I will not wait any longer to marry you Cavan Vitra. I waited for months, then a year and two. Don't even tell your mother you suggested that, she's already going through our old designs!" you place your hands on your hips.

"Heavens forbid if my dear mother catches wind of me trying to be a gentleman," he lets out a breathy laugh. "That being said there's somewhere I want to take you tonight then."

"As long as it's not the pub, I finally understand Iris' pain of having to sit through stories about 'that one time I got into a fight with a demon' or 'this is how I got out of a hell prison'!" you snort laugh, going back to digging into your breakfast.

"No no, it's not the pub. It's a surprise though, please let me take you out tonight. Neither of us has had much of a break lately," he smiles.

You roll your eyes but smile back at him, "Oh alright, just as long as you don't overexert yourself."

~~~

You and Cavan walked till you were at the edge of the woods before he blindfolds you. Very carefully he picks you up, waiting till you're comfortable in his arms. He talks to you about how he rescued Not Food from a band of thieves and Singred the party's druid attempting to heal him. You laugh when he tells you that Silas the naga he didn't get along with was so upset when Not Food chose to go with Cavan instead of him.

After awhile he finally sets you down and removes the blindfold. You blink a couple times and rub your eyes. The crystal like lake with glowing white flowers lay before you. On the far side a web is set up with a several blankets, pillows, and a picnic basket.

You turn around and see that Cavan is lowered and he's reaching out for your hand.

"I suggested a fake engagement, stole your first kiss, and left you wanting and waiting for me for years. I don't deserve your love and yet after all this time you still give it to me. You have been my sun in all the dark places, my light and my hearth. I want for only you and burn for only you... And if you'll have me-" he squeezes your hand and lets go to grab a small box from his pocket. He opens it to reveal a beautiful ring with an opal in the center. "Sunshine, will you marry me?"

You nod your head and start crying and laughing, Cavan scoops you into his arms and kisses you silly.

~~~

Three months later you and Cavan are finally wed. The celebration lasted about a week and by the time it was over the both of you were glad. You were more than ready to get on with your lives together.

You had turned another room in your home into his studio, something he jokingly said he'd regret because of how distracting you'll be.

"And here I was hoping to catch up with my dad a little bit more and compare fight stories," he laughs.

"You already do that during family dinners," you swat his arm.

He gives you a fond and soft smile that throws you off.

"What? Why are you looking at me like that?" you laugh nervously.

"I'm just happy is all. I'm finally home," he leans down and kisses you softly.

Leia is on the smaller side for her species, at her full height she only stands about 5’6”. Her markings are that of a peacock jumping spider so she’s very brightly colored, her hair is white and long which she loves having braided.

She loves video games too! She loves playing more calming games when she’s feeling overwhelmed, stuff like Stardew Valley, Cattails, Animal Crossing and the like are her cup of tea. Generally speaking, she loves playing horror games, and loves being able to play multiplayer with friends. Things like The Forest, Phasmophobia, etc. are what she normally plays but she will play anything you wanna play just cause she likes spending time with you too!

She loves listening to you talking about the things you are the most passionate about! Sometimes she will purposely start a conversation with those topics just to hear you talk! She’s the biggest, sappiest romancer out there and just hearing her partner’s voice can make her relax.

As far as music goes, she’s happy to listen to anything you want to listen to! She loves music from all genres so anything goes with her! 

She also keeps a stash of whatever you need to help on days where everything gets to be too overwhelming, whether it’s sensory toys or something else to help you. She never wants to make you feel uncomfortable in any scenario. She will take all the time in the world to learn your triggers and how to help you with them when something should occur.

NSFW!

She’s content to simply do whatever you want to do when it comes to the bedroom. She’s a switch with no preference and has a lot of things that she’s okay with doing too.

Her first worry is always you, she’s always making sure you are comfortable in any scenario and often asks if how things are going is okay with you. If not she will full on stop and comfort you however you want to be comforted. She makes sure that you both agree on a safeword to use. When she’s being a dom, she’s definitely gentle, making sure to praise you at every given opportunity. 

If she’s being a sub, she loves being praised in return, it’s her love language when it comes to the bedroom, the one big no for her is degrading. She won’t stand for it.

Overall she’s adventurous with very little limitations!

You were currently cuddled up to Leia in one of the many spider hammocks she had made since her species doesn’t make actual webs. They were more like cocoons that were tunnel shaped and easy to get out of when need be, they weren’t sticky like other webs and were really soft. Many times you found yourself asleep in one of them rather than sleeping in your own bed with Leia cuddled up to you. 

A soft huff came from her as she focused intently on the game she was playing, even though it was only Cattails she still had to defeat enemy cats every day to make sure she kept the territory she was building for her clan. A soft click of her mandibles came a few moments later, signifying that she had won the daily battles again, you tilted your head up to look at her with a smile as she leaned down and pressed a kiss to your forehead. 

“I won again!” She chimed softly, shifting so that you could see her screen with the cat she had customized, she had saved up enough mission tokens and had bought the rainbow fur pattern. 

“I see! You’re doing really well, what level are you for everything?” You asked as she opened the menu, showing that she was the max level for hunting, swimming, fighting, etc.