#surrealink

http://x.com/shadowmoonpack

What are they thinking?

Commission for Kaye

Ink

21x29,7cm

My commissions are open

Surrealink, mixed media on paper, 22x30 cm (2020)

Shace: -My left knee bounces beneath the dark dash of my murdered out ‘67 GTO while I fought off the numbness that was crawling up my long legs. The GTO’s fat tires were eating up the sun heated asphalt with long green patches mixed with glints off passing farm home windows blurring by.  Driving these long stretches of intersecting Texas interstates was like a second home with all the traveling #RecklessVices had been doing.

The spider web fine cracked windshield allowed the sun to blaze down over my tatted up knuckles. My right thumb pad taps to the tune hitting out the custom sound system tucked in the trunk space before my hand smooths down the curve of the steering wheel and hits the signal switch. Shaded eyes catch sight of the exit I needed, and I ease up my chuck covered foot off the gas when I hit the frontage road, then turn off. Thin red-orange dust covered buildings of the looming city came slowly into view with each passing stop light.

Sitting idle at one of the longer than norm red lights I hit the push button on the lighter to burn up a fresh nicotine stick. The grey puffed smoke trails dances upward before they twist an exit out the cracked driver’s side window.

Arriving back into Longview’s city limits I navigated the streets and rolled into the shop’s parking lot with a shake of still disbelief at this past weekend. After I slip out the black leather interior of the GTO I round the back to drag my travel duffle free with minimal effort. A rasped cough booms free, smoke flowing outward in small billows as I fumble around with my key fob, sharp clinks sounded with each flick back of one key for another. Flat metal slid into metal as the serrated teeth fitted to spin the tumblers and unlock the front door of #ShadyInk.

The strap of my leather duffle digs into my tense shoulder as I move to snuff out the butt of my smoke onto the black painted brick corner. I groan out falling into a leather padded seat after crossing the threshold and leave the door unlocked. I was bone deep tired from running non-stop since arriving home after the out of town gig with the band. I’d come home only long enough to repack and hit the road again with @InkedDevon and @Surreal_Ink.  

There truly was no rest for the wicked. And man oh man was it not a sweet fucking feeling to know that all the hard  work and scraped up money Devon and I had poured into the shop had finally paid off.

I move around the front lobby, everything was quiet for a moment. This was the only true moment I had to actually take a breather.  Rona would be here any minute. It was a surprise she wasn’t here already.  Wayfarer’s are pulled down from the bridge of my nose as my dark eyes finally adjust to the light inside. With the temple arm resting between fingertips I rubbed a half balled up fist of my free hand into my lids and clear my vision further.

It was deathly quiet in the shop this time of morning which only made me miss Devon more. Fuck was I bad at losing people, but I had to accept that her journey was leading her away from our small never changing hometown.

I stood there all alone in the bustling airport terminal, for the longest time after seeing my little sister off. All with the rushed sounds were drowned out. I couldn’t explain what was going down inside of me as I watched her board that big plane to Colorado.

It was killer. That baby face turning back a heart toasting smile and wave before she slipped away from sight. I tried to follow her walk through the plane through the small windows dotted along the side. Visualizing her finding and taking her seat.

https://www.tumblr.com/shadowmoonpack

Vane: /I locked tatted fingers together, palms sweating as the desert wind breezed by. I never would have imagined this trip would involve a ceremony.

Thoughts were running wild. All filled with my Goddess. This didn’t seem real. Her acceptance of this union. I stared down the makeshift aisle. The Pyramids of Giza the backdrop.

Sir Snape, a French bulldog, another gift of Kitten’s was seated at my heels with his blue bow tie in place. Rings anchored around his collar.

Nerves were cooling my stomach as Mikel started down the aisle to join me near the officiant’s podium. His pat on the shoulder is reassuring and just what I needed.

The planner I contracted had worked a miracle. Gaining us access to a venue near the pyramids. Place settings were set for our guests to arrive. As soon as @ChasingAPhoenix accepted the proposal we sent out a group text to our inner circle to join us in Egypt.

My heart was hammering the whole time. I’d spent my whole life thinking I’d be wandering this earth in a solitary existence. Kitten was ever present, each of our encounters setting a foundation for our future. This was going to take a miracle to pull off but I knew we would make the best of every moment./

Lincoln: /Nora and I had been at the airport about to catch a flight back to Louisiana from China when we received the message from Vane about his proposal to Kitten and their elopement in Egypt. And of course, @LecherousVice was beyond excited when the flight attendant at the check in desk said we could travel back to New Orleans via Cairo with a 3 day layover. It was even more heartwarming when Kitten asked if we’d make it in time for me to be able to walk her down the aisle, so apologetic for the last minute ask, but I promised we would make it.

After all. We’d first met the girl at OUR wedding 4 years ago, so it only seemed right that we be here now on her very special day to one of my oldest friends, that I’d known for as long as I could remember.

Once we touched down, we had barely an hour before the ceremony was due to start, and I clasped my wife’s face, smiling and gifting her kisses before leaving her to find the rest of the guests while I went to see if our bride-to-be needed anything. Finally finding the girl and taking her hand/

Hello, sweets.

Nora thought you might want something borrowed….

/Sliding a hair piece into her hands from my wife/

All set?

Nora: [Today was such a day for love, and any other time I was fervently against eloping. But Vane and Kitten had been in love for so long now that this wouldn’t feel like an elopement at all, but rather confirmation of what we we all knew, how very much they were meant for eachother, and how long we’d been waiting for this special day.

The change in plans had been a welcome one, and when Lincoln and I finally arrived at the Giza plateau I was already giddy with excitement. Lincoln’s kisses were met with equal fervor, and I smacked him on the bottom before he headed off to find the bride, knowing he’d be more handsome than ever walking down the aisle to give Kitten away.

I set my own sights on Collins, claiming big hugs that had been long awaited for one of my closest friends. Greeting others as well, I made sure to say hi to the new parents before finding myself a seat to wait for the ceremony to start. However the day went, I was proud and honored to get to share in this moment with friends I adored]

Syren: After convincing @ACrypticWraith to bring the little monsters with us to Egypt, we quickly got everyone dressed and ready to go. I watched him place the babies in car seats as I stuffed whatever we needed in a big tote bag. I readied for us to jump through a portal but ran back to my safe and took out a present for my brother's soon to be wife.

His wife. I couldnt believe I was saying that. I thought we both would have been swimming the seas for a long time but seeing him with her.....it made my less cold heart swell. I ran back and threw open a portal then stepped us out to beautiful sights of pyramids. Geez. I must be old. I remembered when they were being built.

I swiftly walked with my little lady to a seat and nudged Ayden to sit down.

"Watch them like your life depends on it. Because it does."

After backing away, I moved to see my brother giving him kisses on both cheeks.

"I'm so happy for you. I love you, my little sea urchin."

After pushing a few people out of the way, I found Kitten so beautiful in her gown.

"My love. Thank you for making my brother the happiest I have ever seen him. You are absolutely amazing. Here is a token of my love to you."

I pulled out one of my jewels and placed it in her hands.

Daisy: *our first trip as a little family was going to be to Egypt, and the occasion could not be better. My mind was kept busy in the whirlwind of packing and traveling, and caring for our babies in the process. I’d gotten dressed on the jet and the moment we arrived at the venue, I could feel my emotions kick up.

Mykel said a quick hello to everyone before joining Vane. I watched him go before I adjusted myself. I’d made sure to wear one baby and carry the other so I could give eager hugs to everyone before I sat down, excited grins being exchanged as we all greeted one another. Collins was about two seconds away from plucking Wynter from my arms before she noticed that Kitten was due for a tear check. I had to look away before I joined her in that for absolutely now reason.

I finally had to sit down, smiling and making googly eyes at Mykel where he stood at the front next to Vane while I adjusted myself and the twins in my seat*

June: [The call had come in on my way to the bar for the influx of the weekend crowd. But the moment I heard the news screamed to me over the phone, nearly breaking my iPhone speakers, I knew I wouldn’t be working tonight.

It took all of an hour before I had called one of my employees to cover me, rushed home, packed haphazardly and made it to Louis Armstrong International.

Initially the gate agent had told me the next flight for Cairo was booked solid, but after I had begged and begged and promised free drinks and made inappropriate propositions, she finally gave in and put me at the top of the standby list.

By sheer luck I had made the flight and by the time I arrived at the venue I was overflowing with anticipation to see my two good friends finally tie the knot. It took everything in me not to tackle Kitten to the ground to let out some of the pent up excitement but I manage to limit my aggressive affection to a tight crushing hug.

Pulling away for just a moment, I press my forehead to hers and murmur a soft.]

You look gorgeous.. the most beautiful bride. If any of these dead pharaohs had breath left you’d have stolen it.

[squeezing her hands I arm myself with tissues and fresh mascara, ready to wipe and dab and reapply every 3 minutes if need be]

Mykel: When I got the text from Vane in all caps saying get to Cairo bro I’m about to get married. I all but scrambled like my head was cut off, telling Daisy to pack a bag for her and the kids. I was sure she got the same text as well and was handling it way better than I was.

Not like I was freaking out or anything, I just took best man duties a bit seriously. After calling ahead for the jet to take us to the destination, it was smooth sailing until we got there. The sun was out casting the perfect light over everything. Daisy was excited even through it all. The twins were of course knocked out sleep.

That was until we got to our destination where everyone was meeting up, all the noise from our friends gathering around to celebrate the ceremony of love between these two wonderful people. I gave a kiss to Daisy, then the twins as she went to find her seat.

I made my way to the front, clasping Vane’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, nothing to be nervous about. . I mean unless you know the mummy king woke up. Even then I won’t let him ruin this day for the both of you.” I tried to ease his tension with a light joke. As we stood there, I winked at Daisy. We were just waiting for the beautiful bride to make her way down the aisle.

Kitten: Today had been a whirlwind of emotions. I had gone from crying, laughing, crying some more, and laughing again. I was still in a state of shock when Vane suggested that we get married today as well. I couldn’t believe it. Engaged and married all on the same day.

“But what about our family? Our friends?”

“I got it all covered, my goddess.”

He had quickly turned me around to show me Colly standing behind me with a plastic bag over her arm. Surprise flickered over my face before he dropped a kiss to the top of my head and handed me over to her. How he had planned all of this I don’t know.

“Wait! I need to talk to Lincoln!” Colly just laughed and said they were on their way and that Nora wasn’t even mad that Vane and I were eloping. That was definitely news to me because Nora hated when people talked about eloping. Sending a quick text to Lincoln asking if he would walk me down the aisle as I had no parents and gods know where my brother is. I apologized profusely for the late asking. He readily accepted and I felt instantly calmer.

Soon June found us and I could see her fighting the urge to tackle hug me. Her words making me cry to which her and Colly quickly wiped away the tears and fixed my make up. A few moments later, Lincoln appeared and made me cry again when he handed me the hair piece from Nora as my something borrowed. I was one blubbering mess by the time Syren walked in and thanked me for loving her brother. As she stepped behind me to place the something blue around my neck that she was letting me use, I cried even more.

Colly and June were getting their work cut of them just to keep me looking presentable. Finally someone came over and said it was time. Colly and June left Lincoln and I after saying they would us soon. June was to stand beside me as my maid of honor. My sister of my heart in this life.

Lincoln gave me a reassuring smile as I looped my arm through his.

“Okay. I’m ready. I think.”

His answering chuckle was enough to soothe my nerves as we stepped out of the tent that had been put up quickly for me to change and get ready in.

Lincoln: /Collins and June flitted around our girl, making sure hair, dress and make up were perfect and given the short time frame we had, they didn’t fail to make Kitten one of the most beautiful brides I’d ever seen. Gazing like a proud stand-in father/brother should, smiling and taking her hands to give them a quick squeeze. The others leaving until it was just the two of us standing and waiting for our cue as a soft sound comes over the speakers, music beginning to play. I offer my arm and wait for Kitten to state she is ready, chuckling as we step out of the tent.

My gaze taking in the beautiful scene before us, they’d done well in such short notice. My eyes track the path we were about to walk, one step in front of the other, making sure Kitten didn’t stumble or fall. But her eyes were forward and focused on the man about to become her husband and I smile as I meet my wife’s beautiful face too. Giving her a wink as we stroll past towards the front. Not stopping until she was standing next to her love. Giving Vane a brief pat on the back before taking my place to one side./

Kitten: A small, soft gasp left my lips as I took in the scene before me. The pyramids as the backdrop were stunning in the sunlight as Lincoln and I made our way towards the aisle I would walk down. Nerves were eating me alive until I looked up and saw Vane. It was like everything and everyone disappeared, but him. There he stood in a tux, the golden hue of the sun behind him creating an angelic glow around him.

My heart felt like it was beating in time with my steps as Lincoln led me towards the one man who captivated me. In the years that Vane and I had known each other never had I imagined that we would be here. Not just Egypt, but getting married. Everything we had been through led to this moment. Everything that tried to tear us apart only made us stronger. My love for this man knew no bounds. I knew he was mine years ago.

It didn’t even register to me that we made it to the front of everyone until Vane took my hand from Lincoln, who gave him a pat on the back before moving off to the side. Lifting a teary gaze to Vane, my heart leapt at the smile that was on his lips. Whispered words of I love you left my lips as the officiant stepped up and cleared his throat.

Officiant: Welcome, everyone. Please be seated.

Welcome, family, friends and loved ones. We gather here today to celebrate the wedding of Kitten and Vane. You have come here to share in this formal commitment they make to one another, to offer your love and support to this union, and to allow Kitten and Vane to start their married life together surrounded by the people dearest and most important to them.

So welcome to one and all, who have traveled far to be here. Kitten and Vane thank you for your presence here today, and now ask for your blessing, encouragement, and lifelong support, for their decision to be married. We also pause for a moment to feel the love coming to us from around the globe from friends and family who could not travel here on this day.

-Gaze scans the intimate gathering as I begin again- Will you, friends and family, encourage Kitten and Vane in their marriage?

Nora: [I was already seated by the time the officiant directed the guests to settle down and clear the aisle, and the area was overwhelmed with a hushed silence save for the music playing and a chorus of gasps as Kitten made her way down the aisle. Lincoln keeping her steady, I looked on with pride, my heart swollen at all the love I could see in Kitten’s eyes as she put one foot in front of the other. Kind of liking walking towards your destiny and trying not to trip along the way. Beaming, I winked back at Lincoln when he passed me, every wedding we’d ever been to surely sending his thoughts back to the day we tied the knot as well.

Attention back on the officiant as the bride and groom settled in front of one another. I was confused when he asked for our encouragement, and the rest of us might have been unsure too if we were to speak up or forever hold our peace. But I broke the silence with a laugh and cheer] Hell yes!

Mykel:Today was meant for their love, I couldn’t have pictured a better day than this one. Watching the blushing bride walk down the aisle with Lincoln, looking absolutely stunning. When I peeked at Vane I could see that he too was enamored by his fiancée.

When she found her place next to Vane, I couldn’t help the big smile on my face. Today my brother from another mother was getting married. I looked out to Daisy to make sure she was okay with handling both twins, chuckling lowly at Collin’s holding one Wynter.

Dragging my attention back to the man standing at the podium, asking his question. “Yes.” I said with a huge smile plastered on my face.

Vane: /This moment would forever be ingrained in my memory. Our family gathered to welcome our joined lives. Mykel was keeping me from teetering over. I had to be careful of Sir Snape as the officiant joined us.

My sister stops by with her elated greeting and wishes. Seeing her along with Ayden and her triplets, man did it bring warmth flooding through. She moves off after giving me squeezes to find Kitten. I catch sight of Collins and June heading toward the bridal tent. Nora, Dominique, William, and Daisy with her two new little ones were attendees to our small ceremony. Everyone making it out on such short notice meant the world to us.

The music cues the start and everyone stands while Kitten steps free from the tent. Lincoln had his arm hooked with hers and my blues darkened catching sight of her ethereal form. Breath stolen from my lungs. Her steps were steady thanks to Lincoln’s arm.

My wild beauty. My future was wedding marching toward me. My hand in my pocket, thumbing over the control button, dark grin rising free. My mind replays all the holidays. How we danced around each other through the years. She got all of me. The best of me. She embraced every part of me.

I passed the leash off to Mykel as we repositioned on the platform. My palms warm hers as they join. Heart pounding. I gulped down the boulder in my throat, leaning in to whisper low/

“I might have to worship you, My Goddess.”

/I was shaking, only she could tell. The officiant begins and I kept focus locked on Kitten while the ceremony began/

Officiant: -The response from their family brought a smile over my features. I gave the couple a moment before I resumed the ceremony.-

Do you celebrate with them the decision they have made to choose each other, and will you continue to stand beside them with each passing year?

If you do, please reply, we will.

Mykel: We will.

Syren: Sniffles under my hankerchief

"Of course we will!!!"

Dominique: We will

Daisy: We will!

Officiant: Thank you. Marriage is perhaps the greatest and most challenging adventure of human relationships. No ceremony can create your marriage; only you can do that – through love and patience; through dedication and perseverance; through talking and listening, helping and supporting and believing in each other; through tenderness and laughter; through learning to forgive, learning to appreciate your differences, and by learning to make the important things matter, and to let go of the rest. What this ceremony can do is to witness and affirm the choice you make to stand together as lifemates and partners.

Officiant: Will you, Vane, take this woman to be your wedded wife?

Vane: /Gives a manly sniff, before I clear my throat/ With everything I am.

Officiant: -Short nod, thinking good man, turning to the bride- Will you, Kitten, take this man to be your wedded husband?

Kitten: A bright smile crossed my lips as I kept my eyes on Vane and tried really hard to not cry again. “Forever and always yes.”

Officiant: -I smile at the pair. Continuing on as I address the crowd-

Two people in love do not live in isolation. Their love is a source of strength with which they may nourish not only each other but also the world around them. And in turn, we, their community of friends and family, have a responsibility to this couple. By our steadfast care, respect, and love, we can support their marriage and the new family they are creating today.

Will everyone please rise.

-I pause while they rise up to their feet-

Will you who are present here today, surround Kitten and Vane in love, offering them the joys of your friendship, and supporting them in their marriage? If so, answer We Will.

Mykel: We will!

Dominique: We will

Syren: *Hops up with two babies* We will.

Daisy: *dabs my eyes with a baby blanket* We will!

Nora: [on my feet happily] We will!

Officiant: -I nod toward Mykel to motion for the rings tethered to the ring bearer pup. They are handed off and I turn toward the male I’d been informed was Lincoln and motion to his lovely wife-

You may be seated. Lincoln and Nora, with your bond to the couple and being a married pair, as we near the end of the ceremony, I ask you now to please pass the rings to one another, hold them for a moment, warm them with your love, and make a silent wish for this couple, and their future together.

Collins: [late but bounces up] I will

Nora: [blushing when Lincoln and I are called forward, and I stand gingerly, traipsing a bit closer so that I’m side by side with Lincoln. When the rings are passed to us he holds them in his palm for a moment, staring at me with all the love and adoration in the world. I hold them in my palm afterwards, my own gaze shifting to the bride and groom with all the hope that their love can survive every single trial in might face in the future. And then we hold the rings together, letting them sit between our joined palms before we pass them back]

Officiant: Thank you. -The rings are passed back and I start once more. Sensing the deep affection for one another. A prime example of devotion. Focusing on Vane and Kitten-

I’ve heard that wedding ceremonies can be a bit of a blur to the bride and groom. I’d like to ask you, Kitten and Vane, to please take a moment to look at your friends and family who are with you today. With the preparation that went into planning this beautiful day, please take some time to pause, take a deep breath, and make a memory that is not created from a photograph you see later.

Kitten: It was hard, but I took my gaze off Vane for a second to look towards the small crowd that was our family and friends. These were the people we were closest to. Our biggest supporters. They had been there each time for us in one way or another. Eyes glancing over Lincoln and Nora with a soft smile after they blessed our rings with their love and bond. Moving towards Mykel and Daisy with their children, new friends in our life who have been like family. Next my eyes shift to Syren, Ayden and their babies, their love shining brightly as they looked at each other and then their children. Shifting away my eyes moved towards Nique and her William. Their love showing me that no matter how long things took love always won. Finally my eyes settled on my sister June and my best friend Colly. My rocks. They always were there with their support and love. Giving everyone a watery smile as I felt all their love and more before I turned back to Vane, whispered words leaving my lips.

“I love you, my creeper.”

Vane: /I had to double blink back. Lids wet. Damn sis. I quieted my thoughts, following the officiant’s request. Taking a breath and trying to control my emotions as I looked over our loved ones. All of their faces painted in their own overwhelming emotions.

Lincoln and Nora’s blessing kicked my feels. They’d been there from the beginning.

This was what it was all for. The little things that added up. All the love for us shone up. I tried my best not to lose it/

Officiant: We've come to the point of your ceremony where you're going to say your vows to one another. But before you do that, I ask you to remember that love – which is rooted in faith, trust, and acceptance - will be the foundation of an abiding and deepening relationship. No other ties are more tender, no other vows more sacred than those you now assume. If you are able to keep the vows you take here today, not because of any religious or civic law, but out of a desire to love and be loved by another person fully, without limitation, then your life will have joy and the home you establish will be a place in which you both will find the direction of your growth, your freedom, and your responsibility.

Bride and Groom. Your vows.

Kitten: I, Kitten, take you, Vane, to be my husband, to be my constant friend and partner, and my love. I will work to create a bond of honesty, respect, and trust; one that withstands the tides of time and change, and grows along with us. I vow to honor and respect you for all that you are and will become, taking pride in who we are, both separately and together. I promise to challenge you, and to accept challenges from you. I will join with you and our family of friends and try to create and maintain a world we all want to live in. Our home will be a sanctuary and a respite for us and for those whom we cherish. When I first came back around, all I wanted was to be your friend. From that friendship grew a love that I would have never dreamed of. Never thought possible. No matter what road I went down it always led back to you. You are my home, Vane Everett. You always have been. It may have taken us a while to figure that out, but in the end we did. You are my rock, my foundation, my reason for breathing. I love you, Vane Everett. Forevermore.

Vane: I, Vane, take you, Kitten, to be my wife, to be my constant friend and partner, and my love. I will work to create a bond of honesty, respect, and trust; one that withstands the tides of time and change, and grows along with us. I vow to honor and respect you for all that you are and will become, taking pride in who we are, both separately and together. I promise to challenge you, and to accept challenges from you. I will join with you and our family of friends and try to create and maintain a world we all want to live in. Our home will be a sanctuary and a respite for us and for those whom we cherish.

I promise to love you till the day I die. To make it work. It won’t be easy but I promise never to leave. To never be above but beside you. To cherish you for all time. To hold in low times and celebrate together in the high times. Thank you for accepting me for exactly who I am. Our love will withstand anything that threatens to tear us asunder.

Kitten: Above all, I will give you my love freely and unconditionally.

Vane: /Breathes out slow/ Above all, I will give you my love freely and unconditionally.

Kitten: “I pledge this to you from the bottom of my heart, for all the days of our lives.”

Gives a him a teary smile as I look upon the man that is now my husband in front of our friends and family.

Vane: I pledge this to you from the bottom of my heart, for all the days of our lives.

Officiant: -Handing the rings to the bride and groom-

Please place these rings on each others’ fingers and repeat after me: I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love for you.

Kitten: Takes a deep breath to steady myself as I take the ring from the officiant, sliding the ring onto Vane’s finger as I looked up into his gorgeous blue eyes. Tears fell as my voice started to wobble.

“I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love for you.”

Vane: /I stare into her chocolate gaze, the woman that mesmerized me every day. She lit me up. All I could think was this was my wife. I couldn’t wait to run my fingers down her back. To have her head resting on my shoulder. I take her left hand in mine and slide the companion rose gold thorn band over her ring finger, leaning down to press a kiss to the joined rings before stating/

I give you this ring, as a daily reminder of my love for you.

Officiant: Wonderful. By the power of your love and commitment, and the power vested in me, I now pronounce you partners in life! You may kiss each other!

Vane: /I took my wife’s hand in mine, reeling in with a dipped back and slanted kiss. All consuming. Her kiss rocked me. The world sways and she was anchoring us in place. Tongue slides along the seam of her lush lips seeking entrance, a throaty groan rumbled free as her taste invades my senses. My darker half whips across my skin seeking her and her shadows. She waltzed away with this creeper’s heart. I straighten her up and spin around before we faced our family breathless in bliss/

Kitten: My heart stopped the moment the officiant declared us husband and wife. It started to beat again the moment I felt his soft lips touch mine. All coherent thoughts left my mind as I lost myself into the kiss. Small arms wrapped around his larger frame as my lips parted under his sweet assault. I felt the moment his other side came around, my shadows answering his beckoning call before Vane pulled back. I was left breathless by my husband. My husband. Just thinking those two words brought a huge smile to my lips as I looked out towards our family and friends.

Officiant: To the happy couple! You’ve found the hand you want to hold forever.

I present to you…Mr. and Mrs. Everett.

Nora: WOOT WOOT!!!!!

Dominique: *Claps*

Kitten: WE ARE MARRIED! Oh my gods. We are married.

Daisy: *stands and cheers as much as the babies will allow*

Syren: Thank the Gods!!! Great job you two!!! Simply beautiful, sister in law. And I saw your glassy eyes, brother. *winks* CONGRATULATIONS!!

Dominique: Congratulations 🎉🎊

Mykel: Congratulations!

Daisy: Congratulations, guys! I’m so happy for you both!

Syren: Runs towards the happy couple as they begin their way down. Both boys wrapped around my chest as I take Kitten's hands in mine.

"You did amazing, sister-in-law. I am happy to welcome you to the family. Officially. Take care of my little sea urchin. If he gets out of line, I can give him a little poke."

Gives you a small squeeze around the babies. Looks up with my blue eyes looking at my brother's.

"Thank you for allowing us to join in your day. I wouldn't be anywhere else. I am so proud of you. I love you to the deepest sea. Take care of this beauty."

I step back and blow siren kisses to them both as I pack up my four babies to head back to the island until my little monsters grow some more.

Nora: [The cheers carry through the desert as Kit and Vane are pronounced husband and wife, and I couldn’t be happier for them. Sharing in the joy, giving hugs where I could, congratulating the happy couple on their nuptial, so elated that I got to be a witness]

We’re almost there!

I bounce some in my seat impatiently, the steering wheel turning into the driveway beside my brick warehouse residence. The weather was warmer than I expected close to noon as I shrugged my coat off after setting the brake, unfastening my seat belt to slide out and begin to unload our furry feline friends from the back seat. Their whines grow louder when they see we’ve finally made a stop.

Havyn: The cool air hits me as soon as we step outside but that doesn’t bother me as we get into the red rental car. Everything is so different from LA; the trees and the freshness of the air. I look out the window with amazement. I never knew that the world was like this as I had never left the City of Angels. I look over at Kaela excitedly when she tells me that we are almost there and flash her a huge smile. Looking back out the window, I touch the glass as we make our way through the streets. Kaela turns into a driveway next to a brick building. I unbuckle my seatbelt, letting the strap slide slowly back through my fingers. The soft click of the backdoor opening catches my attention and I quickly step out of my seat and on to solid ground. My friend is unloading the cats and I take Spaz’s carrier, lifting it up to peer inside and softly speak to him.

It’s okay baby. You’re fine. No more moving car.

I set the carrier on the ground as Kaela opens up the trunk so we can grab our luggage. I throw the strap of my sky blue carry on over my shoulder and lift the other one matching one up by the plastic handle. Setting it down on it’s wheels, I wait for her to get hers and close the trunk before picking up my feline’s carrier and roll on up the driveway to the door.

So, this is your home here. It’s beautiful, Kaela.

Kae: I grin broad and pearly, boot heels clicking together as I spin and snap out the handle of my rolling luggage. I glance up with honey eyes, tinted sunglasses shading my view of the neutral toned brick face of my home.

Thanks, Darlin’, yes, this is home or was...might be the better word before relocating on the far side of the mountain.

I wrangle free the keys from my pocket, the cool metal clinking against the other keys hanging off my key fob and unlock the door with a quick twist. A rusty squeal sounds free when I crack the door ajar and my lightly painted lips quirk to the side at the ear screeching noise. I prop the heavy honey varnished wood and ornately decorated glasswork door to allow my guests to pass through. The multihued stained panes cast rays of bright colors over the worn wood flooring.

I pull free my shades from the bridge of my nose, keen sight taking in the months long vacant home’s condition. The antique navy shelving over the left side of the storefront of the old warehouse was covered in dust and fine spun silvery spider webs nestled in the high corners. A fleeting thought scrambles through my head along with a small shake as I drop it from my shoulder and chide myself for not being better prepared for this trip.

Welcome to our home. Please excuse the mess.

I laughed short, teeth clamping over my full lower lip as I rolled my luggage case over the small hump in the entryway. I pass by Havyn’s side and crotch down to set Luna down, the front of her carrier unlatched and she springs free with a low bowing stretch, paws extended one after the other with sharply curled clear claws retracting as she straightens up, licking along the pink pads before moving to rub along Spaz’s case.

Luna cakes, your friend is just fine. See?

I laugh as Spaz steps out of his own travel carrier and moves into an instinctual reassuring nuzzled rub along Luna’s stark white broadside.

I’ll grab them some water. They must be dehydrated from the trip.

I wring my hand gently, stepping toward the kitchen with one hand dropping to delve into my pocket in search of my cell. I’d not heard any word from Nathaniel since our landing and I was having a creeping feeling rise up with sudden worry that maybe he wasn’t interested in a visit from a hybrid from his past. Would he even care that I was in town? I pull open the cupboard to hunt down a few bowls, and frown at the bare pantry when my stomach rumbles out. The apple didn’t hold up for very long and my hunger was making itself evident.

We were going need to stock up on supplies if we planned to eat any time this week. Thinking of food brought the feeding to the forefront of my mind. It had been awhile since Havyn’s had blood and I wondered if she’d like a bite some time soon. I hum as the tap is twisted out, the aged pipes in the building groaning with a hard knock as they spring to life after sitting for so long. Rust clears quickly leaving a clean stream to fall into the bowls. My sigh falls over to my cell phone again and I had to wonder if Mike would have any friends who might like to spend some time with a couple of hot single vamp gals. I return to the front area where I’d last seen Havyn and the kittens, smiling as I find them in the living area.

If you’re not too tired from our travel I’m thinking of making a run to the market. You’re welcome to stay and settle in or feel free to join. It shouldn’t take too long.

I set the water bowls over the wood flooring, Luna and Spaz padding over for a tentative drink, Luna’s ears twitching in every direction as she takes in the familiar living area of the warehouse.

Havyn: I step through the doorway and move to the side to let Kaela through. I carefully place Spaz’s carrier on the wooden floor and take a look around. The dark shelves are sprinkled with dust and I can see some fragile spider webs in the light filtering in. I shudder. I am petrified of spiders. I wheel my suitcase further inside before placing it somewhere out of the way and drop my carry-on off my shoulder. Kaela had mentioned the mountains and there is a certain longing within me that I wish I could visit them. They looked so beautiful raising in the distance with their snowy caps. Majestic is the only word I could use to truly describe them. I turn my attention back to my friend, sweeping my sunglasses up to band across the top of my head so I can see better.

No, your home is lovely, Kaela. It’s just a little dust; easily taken care of.

Luna is let free, her white, furry little body taking off over to Spaz’s own little spot and I laugh. Unlatching the metal gate in front, I watch as my kitty touches noses with Luna. They begin to rub each other’s bodies together and I raise a brow. My stomach rumbles and those little bags of peanuts on the plane did nothing to curb my hunger, not to mention my other hunger. I should’ve fed before I came here. I chide myself for still not being able to get over my abhorrence to taking blood from an unwilling victim, even though they do not remember afterwards. I nod at Kaela when she mentions getting them water. Wandering around, I find the room with a couch and chair but decide to I sit down on the wooden floor to play with the cats for a little bit. That is, until they grow bored of me and decide to wander over to their own little corner. I look up as Kaela comes back in with a bowl of water for them. Their little kitty paws scamper over to start lapping up the clear liquid. I’m curious about the rest of the home. Standing up, I dust the back of my jeans off and turn to my friend.

You used to live in the mountains?

I make idle conversation as she begins to show me around the home.

Kae: I give Havyn a tour of the different levels of the warehouse, climbing up to the rooftop overlooking the almost ghost light fogged mountain range in the background. I softly share my story on how I’d briefly stayed with a friend who owned a home on the mountains.

I’m hoping we can make a visit with Nathaniel before we leave back to California.

We pivot back to head downstairs, down to the bedroom suites to unpack before venturing out into the late afternoon. We enjoyed more small chats about the town, passing by my old book haunt Mr. Faber’s book stop, before heading into the small corner market. We made quick work picking up ingredients for the week’s meals.

Havyn: I don’t ask many questions even though I have a million in my mind. Who is this Nathaniel? What is the mountain home like? I just decided to look out the window, looking at all the businesses passing by. We had stopped by a food market to buy some edibles as well as food for the cats. I have a huge smile across my face. I am already enjoying this experience outside of LA. I had wrapped my long sweater around me as we had walked back to the car, not used to the cool air. The cats were happy to have their food and had their fill before heading to the little cat bed that we had unpacked for them. I threw some of the little mice over to the felines’ corner before turning to Kaela.

Do you think we will see your friend sometime soon?

Kae: I laugh whole heartedly from the kitchen, watching the cats pounce the catnip stuffed mice, rolling around as they swat at them with their paws.The lights around the lofty space were illuminated as the sun lowers on the snow capped horizon. Brilliant hues of tangerine dip below the dark mountain range for the evening. I’d still not heard any word from Nathaniel, Havyn’s question was lingering in the air as I chop some tomato, cilantro, jalapenos, and onion for the pico de gallo. I’d called Mike while she was unpacking and he was more than keen to meet up with me and my friend. He was to call me back once he rallied up another friend and stop by to help both Havyn and I with our other hunger pains along with supplying some much needed Colorado’s finest herbal refreshments to loosen us up.

I hope so. He may be out of town. I worry my lower lip at that, my mind growing troubled thinking I may have held too much hope that this trip would help Havyn with her memories. I may have to wait for my next visit. I switch the subject up, nerves making my stomach churn tight. What if this was all a mistake?

How about we do some sightseeing tomorrow? Is there anywhere you’d like to visit here in Colorado?

Havyn: I’m preoccupied with watching the cats play around, their furry little bodies jumping here and there with the catnip filled mice. I grab one to dangle in the air and Spaz pounces up to grab it with his claws and I let it go before I get scratched. Getting up off the floor and dusting off my butt, I turn to where the delicious scent is coming from, wandering into the kitchen area. She is chopping up some vegetables, but she is also chewing on her lip, seeming deep in thought. At the sound of my footsteps, she looks up at me and asks if I’d like to go sightseeing.

I’d actually love to see the mountains; they look so lovely. And then whatever you enjoy seeing. I don’t know what is in Denver.

Reject: After meeting with Athena, I returned to Past World with the overwhelming weight of responsibility on my back. After being instructed to bring in two new members to Zodiac, I didn’t feel much relief in having time traveled to the future to meet with my patriarchal, pain in the ass guide. I check my phone for the first time since I’ve been in Denver, the scent of my homeland still clinging even after five days of scrubbing my skin raw in the shower. I thought I’d return, speak with Rain, and fly out to Malibu to mend our unpredictable marriage, but upon finding no notifications from him on my lock screen, the remaining alerts became fucking uninteresting. Now, I realize I missed a voicemail from an old friend. My thumb taps over Kaela’s message, the sounds of her voice spilling from my speakers as I drop the Android device to my bed while I change.

So she’s in Colorado.

Interesting.

It’s been fucking long since Half Blood showed her face in these parts, her bedroom neglected but intact after over a year of the space being occupied. I didn’t think I’d hear from my old friend any time soon - not after she departed from the country to travel - and out of the blue, she wants to have “dinner.” I snort a laugh before picking up my phone again, one arm through the sleeve of my T, the other half of my shirt bunched up over my left shoulder. The phone rings. And rings. I wait for Half Blood to answer the phone while shoving my feet into some Jordan sandals.

Kae: I pull free the bowl of flank steak marinating in the fridge, ready to start grilling the seasoned beef over the iron grill pan when my phone starts chiming it’s ringtone. I set down the bowl, hands rinsed quickly as my eyes skirt over to where Havyn was. I initially thought the call would be Mike returning my earlier inquiry but the corners of my lips turn up in a hesitant smile seeing the display with Nate’s name. I swipe over the screen, stepping to the side for a little privacy.

Hello Vamper, I was wondering when you’d return my call. How have you been?

My voice is laced with amusement, face heating as anxiety crawled up my neck to flush the apples of my cheeks hoping all was well.

Reject: “I’ve been the way I always am: busy as fuck.” Responding to Kae’s voice makes the mood lighter. It’s not often I have interaction with others outside the Coven unless they’re my husband. Communication with my meals is often limited, and while my staff of domestic help is conversational enough, it’s just not the same as it is when dealing with others who more intimately relate to what the fuck I am. “My apologies for the late response,” I tell Kaela. “Was gone for a while, but I’m here. You’re looking to come over, are you?”

Switching the phone between my hands, I push my left arm through the short sleeve that’d been scrunched up over my shoulder. The shirt loosely hugs my upper torso until I snatch it down over my abs.

Something about the contact made makes me wonder if I should indulge or ignore the warning signs going off in my head. Being an unpredictable clairvoyant by birth makes such decisions difficult. However, I can sense that there’s more to this than a simple “dinner” knowing Kaela and her lifestyle. From the day we met in the presence of her spirit board, I’ve never deemed Miss Half Blood innocent.

Kae: I listen with a gentle laugh hearing Nate’s responses, tense shoulders growing lax some at his easy going attitude and tone. My worries silence for a moment as my delicate fingers pick at a loose thread fraying at the end of my shirt tail as I dip my head slowly with a roll of my eyes behind my lids thinking he couldn’t very well see my nod of response.

I’m in town for a short visit with a /friend/… I draw out the word friend, smiling with a tiny gulp. I think someone you may be interested in meeting. Do you think you’d have time in your busy schedule for us to stop in for a visit? Are you still at the mountain residence? I tap the foot of my shoe along the wood floor, glancing over my shoulder for any sign of Havyn.

Reject: Mountain residence. I loose a light laugh, thinking the young woman sounds about my age with her choice words. “A ‘friend’, huh?” Licking over my teeth in the mirror, I imagine the prospect of such a meeting. “Someone for me to eat? I’m always interested in new blood in my fucking mouth.”

Making my way down into my lair, I do the 15th sweep of my private quarters to make sure each futuristic dollar is indeed gone. The money-growing plants have been safely returned to my best friend - if one should call #Maththias that - but some residual anxiety about any clues Rain can find remains.

“I’m interested in meeting this friend. I’m still at the mansion; come at sunset. If you’re bringing dinner, though,” I add with a sharp grin, “make sure she’s clean. I don’t want drugged blood tonight.”

Kae: I give a light fruity laugh, shaking my head. I’m not inviting my friend over for your dinner, Nathaniel. Please keep some corks on those fangs and let the gargoyles know we’ll be stopping in. I don’t plan on being their dinner tonight. I sighed out another laugh, combing back my dark locks before repositioning the phone over the shell of my ear. We’ll be by soon, Vamper. I lower the cell, ending the call before skipping over to find Havyn after stowing away the steak in the fridge.

Havyn darlin’, we’re going to the mountain!

Havyn: I hear Kaela call out that we were going to the mountain from the kitchen area. I had gone back to the living room to go play with the cats more. I pause in my teasing of the little felines, still laughing, and go the kitchen. My boots click on the hardwood floors as I make my way over to the tiled kitchen. The chopped vegetables are now put away and she is cleaning up the cooking area. I plop down into a chair and look at her.

Are we going to go see your friend, Kaela?

I’m excited to be going into the mountain area but a little nervous about meeting her friend. I’ve not met many people, aside from the customers. But, to actually /meet/ someone on a personal level makes my stomach flutter. I take a deep breath. Stop it Havyn. You need to get out into the world sometime. You can’t stay a recluse forever. I nod to myself and straighten my spine, raising my chin. Yep. I’m going to meet this person and not be intimidated. I stand up and fix my ponytail.

Okay, let’s go then.

Kae: I smile bright, keeping it on my lips as I answer Havyn that we were indeed stopping in for a visit with my friend. I could tell she was steeling herself as we dressed for the trip up the mountainside. The lights flicker past the rental car’s windshield and side windows, the lamp posts growing further and further apart as we leave the densely populated area of Denver for more rural roads winding up the side of the mountain toward Nathaniel’s estate. We reach the mansion, the tall looming figures of menacing shadow cast gargoyles sitting tall on the roof. I offer Havyn a lopsided smile as I slide free from the driver’s seat, rounding the front end of the sedan to meet up with her before approaching the front door.

Don’t be nervous. He won’t bite. I laugh lightly, swallowing down as I secretly hoped Nate wouldn’t sink his fangs into my friend or even worse his shadow fiend scare the bejeebers out of her. I give a gentle rap of the door knocker waiting alongside Havyn as she takes everything in.

Reject: When the vehicle pulled up onto my property, I was in the spellroom. Now, I stand at the doorway, a fragmented second having passed in the time it took to zip from my lair to the foyer. Scents of the stranger suffocate Half Blood’s familiar smell, though both females are clearly detected even through the wood door. I pull it open. There across the threshold are my guests, and neither look like food.

“I see you made it.” Unabashedly, I give the stranger a once over. Young. Strange aura. Possibly magick, unless I’m scenting Kaela’s practice on the female. “And you brought me an enigma.” Sliding my gaze over to Kaela, I cock a questioning brow. Will this “dinner” become laborious? Of course it will.

“Come in.” Stepping aside, I allow passage to the visiting ladies outside my door. Is she a Vampire? Something about this one’s hard to read. My curiosity is fucking swollen, however, having this pair here. “Is she short enough?” I ask Kaela, though my eyes are on the one whose name I still haven’t learned.

Havyn: I get out of the rental car, following Kaela to the front door of a huge mansion. I look it over, noticing gargoyles on the rooftop. It’s beautiful. I turn my attention to my friend using the knocker on the door and stand next to her. It is quickly answered and I find myself staring into a wall of a body, my diminutive form so tiny that my eyes have to travel up and up. My eyes slide up into the face of a male with icy blue eyes and dreads. My eyes widen and I gulp. I’m intimidated as hell. I somehow summon up the courage to step through the door, passing by him. I’m so nervous I can’t even speak though I know that I am being rude by not introducing myself. I look at Kaela, practically asking her for help with my emerald eyes looking into her own honey ones.

Kae: I snort out catching Havyn’s reaction to Nate, flicking my eyes to the wood beams above us as we pass through, my heels clicking over the flooring.

Thank you, Nathaniel, this is my friend Havyn. Havyn, Nathaniel. I lace my arms over my chest, watching as Nate takes us in, I’m sure with all his magick he’s able to more perceptively sense Havyn’s otherness than I. I slide my honey eyes back over to my friend, stepping beside her to offer her some comfort as I see the slight overawe lying just under her gaze. I slide my hand over her back, the heat of my hand I hoped gave her some strength not to freak out meeting such a strong presence as Nate.

An enigma that she is, please be kind, she’s not use to others like us. I speak low, trying to encourage Havyn to speak up.

Havyn?

Havyn: I hesitantly bring up my arm to hold out my hand to this overwhelming male standing there. My voice soft, barely able to get it out of my throat.

Hello Nathaniel, I’m Havyn.

My small, delicate hand is engulfed in his large one. I let out a breath as I peer up at his eyes again, and my nervousness turns into curiosity as I hear Kaela’s words. He’s a vampire too?

Reject: Hello Nathaniel, I’m Havyn. The words ring in my ears as my mind imprints the stranger to my permanent memory.

Taking the offered hand in mine, I give Havyn’s hand a shake. “A pleasure,” I say, words trailing when her pulse thumps against my palm. The vibration travels up my arm toward my shoulder before disappearing at my throat. I slide my hand from hers to shove both in the deep pockets of my dark Levis.

She’s not a Vampire? I pin Kaela with a look that says to explain whatever the fuck this is all supposed to be, ignoring the sudden thirst burgeoning. With my foot, I nudge the front door closed. The three of us are shut away inside, and the night’s peculiar events are thus protracted by the finality of it.

Kae: I huff impatiently, the introductions going agonizingly slow and I was ready to blurt out about needing a favor, one with recovering Havyn’s long lost memories. Could Nate be the answer to taking the block away that was holding back the key to her memory? I swallow down the boulder that grew in my throat when he pinned me with a look that made my knees quake. All I can spurt out is a weak “What’s cooking?” Heat spreading over my nape and shoulders, as we make our way toward the dining area. I knew I had to explain things to both my friends, Havyn’s somewhat lost look causing me more worry. I step beside Nate speaking softly.

The reason I wanted to visit was… I hold my breath, getting it all out in a rush on one long exhale. I need your help with Havyn’s memories.

Reject: When Kaela’s body language belies her calm demeanor, I fold my arms. She steps toward me to stand at my side, and I discard my interest in her friend enough to grant the Half Blood my full attention.

“I knew you were up to something.” Looking down at Kae, I shake my head. My eyes are friendly enough. I think. “What’s wrong with her memories. Or,” I begin as I return my line of sight to Havyn, “should I just ask you?”

It’s not uncommon for supernatural beings to lose memories. I think of my own time without any knowledge of myself after being Faded by Hades’ realm. The bright green drained from my irises and my hair underwent an extreme transformation, but otherwise, there’s nothing about me that remains lost. What the hell happened to Havyn, though?

Havyn: So this is why Kaela brought me to meet her friend. I look over at her, shock very apparent on my face. I didn’t know that there could be someone that would possibly be able to help me with my lost memories. I’m speechless again for a moment, grateful that my friend brought me here to meet Nathaniel. My gaze slides to him as he speaks to me.

I’ve lost a portion of my life that I need to get back. I want to know what happened to me. Please, if you can help me…

My voice trails off as my throat constricts. My heart pounds in my chest. So many questions that could be answered. Maybe even everything. I look straight into Nathaniel’s eyes, holding my breath for his answer.

Kae: When Nate’s voice booms louder than the soft tone I was trying to keep sounds out I drop into one of the empty seats around the dining table. He knew I was up to something? I let out a strained groan, thankful Havyn wasn’t shooting daggers out at me with her gaze as she answered Nate’s question. I keep quiet allowing Havyn and Nate to converse. It was more for her, my seeking him out, and I knew she was wanting to find out what had happened to the memory of her life before Zakradark and her original origins.

Reject: Defeated, Kaela drops to a seat nearby my dining table after Havyn reveals the details of her lost recollections. I hum thoughtfully.

“I don’t see any luggage.” Looking between the two of them, I wonder if either knows the possibility of detriment when fucking with the mind. Then again, Kaela brought Havyn to me, though that doesn’t speak to her awareness of the dangers of mind games - it more so reveals that Half Blood trusts my experience as a lifelong Witch. “This isn’t gonna happen overnight. Have you tried to unlock her memories with your power of manipulation as a Vampire, or is that capability weakened by you being Between?” I clear my throat of the taste of futuristic speak. “Hybrid, I mean.”

There’s a ton of things I can do to fix this shit. However, I know nothing about Havyn aside from these details afforded; what she may and may not be able to handle has yet to be unearthed. “I could try that,” I offer, “or a spell, if it doesn’t work. Which I doubt it will.”

Kae: I stiffen in my seat. Would a spell truly be able to crack her mind? I never tried mind tricks with my abilities.

I-I’ve never attempted mind manipulation past wiping. What do we need to do, and do you think you can help her?

Reject: “It’s not a matter of thinking I can help.” I level a cool look on Havyn. “It’s more of how long it’ll take. If my magick will work on her at all. She smells magick herself, or is that you?” I ask Kaela. Who fucking knows what Havyn is enchanted with because she sure as hell may not with us being in this situation. If she’s like me, she’s protected by a sum of charms. But then no one’s like me, since I’m not from this time.

“Kaela has a room here. You can both stay as long as you like, though Havyn, once I start this, I advise you stay put a while. You don’t wanna find yourself out somewhere with a foggy brain.”

My phone vibrates in my back pocket. I steel myself against the desire to check it, hoping - wondering - it’s Rain. “I’ll look through my Book of Shadows and see if I have some shit in there already about mind magick and memories. Until then, if you both eat food, there’s plenty in both kitchens. Help yourself.”