Page 28

Oleander

T he next day passes quickly; tea with Lady Larkstead, a visit from their seamstress who is exceedingly dismissive of my clothing, dinner with Lord and Lady Larkstead and a night between my mates. I can feel the anger and sadness flowing off them in waves. I expect them to be all over me, wanting pleasure, but they just tug me into bed and press themselves as close to me as they can get. I sleep fitfully, knowing I’m doing the right thing, yet sorrowful that I’m hurting my mates.

We wake to a knocking at the door. Kai jumps up to answer it. Lonan kisses me and sits up, throwing on a shirt. I stand and slip into the closet to remain unseen, as Korben enters, followed by a servant with breakfast.

“Come out, baby,” Kai calls.

“Sooooo, you’re picking a husband today, that’s gotta be exciting!” Korben grins, eyes flicking between the three of us. I flop down at the table full of food. I grab a piece of sweet bread and chew it listlessly. I take a deep breath. I will do this. It will get me the throne. It will end with Alder dead. Marriage is a small price to pay for retribution for my brothers. Vale’s face, his striking blue skin glowing in the candlelight of the tiny apartment, flits through my head. I gave him up, I can give up Lonan and Kai too.

I swallow and take a sip of tea . I’m not even losing Lo and Kai! I chastise myself. I need to get my head on right. Korben’s eyes are sad. And several fluorescent green mushrooms pop out of his ears.

When I almost choke on my tea, Korben giggles. Kai scoops me up and sits, plopping me on his lap. “My little mate,” he rumbles in my ear, “Do I need to eat that sweet little cunt to put you in a better mood?”

“Oh, damn, no, not while I’m here!” Wails Korben as Lonan drops to his knees in front of me. When Korben starts theatrically gagging all three of us start laughing.

There’s a soft knock at the door and Lonan crosses to answer it. I hear him speaking softly, intermingled with a woman’s voice.

I stand, climbing off Kai’s lap and go to the closets. I ponder my gown options as I stand in just a slip. I’m tempted to just wear my breeches , I think spitefully.

Ordained Eliska comes into the room, trailed by an annoyed looking Lonan.

“I went to your rooms first, Lady Oleander,” Eliska smiles. There’s a secret edge to it and it makes me grin. Like she knows.

When she gazed into my eyes the other day, I had gotten the feeling she was sorting through my brain, albeit in a very respectful way.

“Indeed, I have no maids to help dress me, so these three will have to do,” I tease.

Korben grins, and sweeps an exaggerated bow, “Of course, milady!”

Eliska smiles wider. “They are surely the best.” She steps closer, “I just wanted to check on you. See if you had any initial thoughts on which of the sons you’ll choose.”

I sigh, “I had wanted to try to get to know them yesterday, but I felt like the Lord and Lady were running interference.”

Eliska raises an eyebrow and taps the side of her nose. “They are, oldest to youngest, Adrian, Blake, Chase, Dante, Ellis, and Finnick.”

Lonan sits in one of the armchairs as Kai stands, looking out the window. Korben starts pawing through my dresses.

“Mmm,” I respond. I could care less about ages, what I want to know is who is stupid, who is cruel, who will try to rule over me, but I doubt I can ask their priestess that.

“This one,” Korben says decisively, holding out a gown.

“That shade of gray will be becoming on you,” Eliska says.

I could give a fuck . I think Lo and Kai’s moods have rubbed off on me. I take the dress and go into the bathroom to change.

I pull the thing on and stare at myself in the mirror. The dark gray is pretty, and the corset top with the drapey sleeves simple but stunning. The gown is almost austere, falling gracefully in a single heavy layer. I dig out my emerald hair sticks and wrap my hair up in the two buns the boys like so much. It makes me smile. I add my berry powder to my lips and cheeks and quickly line my eyes.

I force a smile. Alright, time to do this.

I step out and Eliska smiles kindly. “You look lovely.”

My eyes flick to Lo and Kai, standing stiffly.

“Please leave, Ordained,” I say quietly.

She nods and smiles. She leaves and as soon as the door closes, Lo and Kai cross to me.

“Exquisite, princess,” Kai whispers, hand going to my back.

“Perfect, my little queen,” Lonan says into the top of my hair.

Their sorrow seeps into my bones and I struggle to hold back tears. I cross my arms under my breasts. “You’re not losing me,” I insist. “I’ll continue to fuck whoever I please. I’ll sleep between the two of you every night. Nothing changes,” I say fiercely.

They both touch me, reassuring me, or mayhap themselves, I don’t know.

“Let’s go pick out a prize cow,” I mutter.

THE MAIN HALL IS A floor below the dining room. Many Fae mill about, in fancy gowns and suit coats, holding crystal glasses of wine. A small string ensemble plays in the corner and heavy candelabras hang from the ceiling, filling the room with the sweet scent of good beeswax. Large vases, nearly my height, are filled with greenery and lined along three walls. Along the last wall stand six low podiums.

Kai leans in and whispers, “Are we actually going to be bidding on the cows?”

I chuckle. “I need wine. A lot.”

“A little,” corrects Korben. “You don’t wanna be drunk when picking a husband.”

Lonan snags a wine from a passing servant. I see Lady Larkstead flitting about like an overgrown bumblebee, a wide smile on her face. She’s loving this. I take a deep drink of wine.

Ordained Eliska is here too. She’s still in the black clothes of an Ordained, but it’s a tailored dress, with a black leather underbust corset before the gown hugs her ample hips and drops to the floor gracefully. Her pink hair is swept loosely up on her head, a few strands curling artfully around her face. She’s a gorgeous woman, really. Earth Fae, I’m guessing.

The Monkswicks like to pretend they are doing a service to the realm, adopting and raising orphans, but in reality, they only take the ones that promise to be attractive or powerful.

“Lady Oleander!” I turn and see Lord and Lady Larkstead.

“Good afternoon,” I paste on my fake smile, “I didn’t realize it was going to be open to the public.”

“Oh, not the public, pumpkin,” purrs Lady Larkstead, “These are the gentry of our land. All very rich and well connected.”

Ah, their bootlickers. The public would have been better.

I take another drink. “I see.”

“My sons will be out soon,” Lord Larkstead says proudly, like he had fuckall to do with growing, birthing or raising them.

“Wonderful,” Lonan brusquely responds, putting a hand on my elbow, “We’re barely able to contain ourselves.”

Korben turns, stifling a laugh. He strides away, stepping behind a planter. Probably to spore and eavesdrop. Good . Lord and Lady Larkstead drift away, drawn by a more interesting conversation.

Kai leans close, “You sure you still wanna do this baby? We can slip out the back and steal a few griffons and bust outta here.”

His green eyes are completely serious. I pat his hand discreetly. “That’s the kindest thing anyone has ever said to me, Kai. But no.”

Suddenly the room's volume drops a bit. Not silence, but enough to make me look around. Sure enough, being trotted in like show ponies, are the Larkstead sons. They walk in the side door and behind the podiums before stepping up onto them. A servant is there almost immediately to offer them a drink.

“Wait, where are the other two?” I whisper to Kai and Lo. They shake their heads, silent. I stand on my tiptoes. “Who is missing?”

Lo answers, “The second and the last podium are empty.”

“Where’s Eliska?” I hiss.

Kai slips off, probably to retrieve her for me. I sidle close to two older Fae gentlemen, both with bright red skin.

“Well, if they want to marry off one of their sons to a nobody, that's their prerogative, I suppose.”

The other answers, “I really don’t understand what the benefit to our province is, throwing behind the rebels.”

“Better than Alder. He’s gone too far.”

The second nods in agreement.

I’m pleased that Lady Larkstead has had the godsdamn good sense to maintain my cover, as we had required. She looks like her lips flap more than clothes on a line in a thunderstorm.

“What can I do for you, Lady Oleander?” Eliska asks softly.

I tilt my head. “Who’s missing? And why?”

Her big blue eyes flick up to the dias. “Adrian and Finnick. As to why...” she spreads her hands.

I bark, “C’mon now, you need to give me something .”

She chuckles. “A favor for a favor, my lady?”

Lonan makes a noise of concern but I nod. “Done. Tell me.”

She steps closer, “Blake, the favored son and the one expected to eventually take control of the house, is sworn in marriage to another.”

Lonan makes an unimpressed noise. “Why were we not told?”

She smiles, “Because it happened last night.”

Kai and Lonan look outraged but I forge ahead, “And the other?”

Her face softens. “Finnick. The black sheep. They don’t want you to pick him.”

“Thank you, Ordained Eliska. I will remember this.”

She nods. “You’re expected to go speak to each, after which, they can step down and mingle. Watch out for Adrian. He’s after you.”

“One more thing,” I say urgently, a thought hitting me, “Are any of them shifters?”

She shakes her head, “All are essentials.” And she melts into the crowd.

“Unacceptable,” I declare, eyes searching the crowd. Finding Larkstead, I march up, the boys trailing me.

“Lord Larkstead,” I say loudly, not waiting for him to finish his conversation.

He sees me. “Uh, excuse me, chaps,” he says to the Fae he’s speaking with. They wander off, looking put out.

“What can I do for you, Lady Oleander?” He asks in a very congenial uncle kind of way.

“I must be allowed to meet with all your sons to make a decision,” I say, saccharine but firm.

“Oh, uh,” he looks around, probably for Lady Larkstead to save him, “You see, child, Blake is promised to another.”

I smile, “I will take that into consideration.”

The nervous smile drops off his face.

“And the other?” I ask, annoyed.

“Oh, mmm, I think he’s not feeling well,” he lies.

“Best get him a healer and send his ass out,” I hiss, struggling with my magic. Odd, that’s the first time since I bonded with Lo and Kai. I need to ask them about that.

His eyes widen and he stares at me second, perhaps considering the two sword-happy Fae behind me, but turns on his heel and leaves the hall.

Korben reappears. “Sounds like they’ve kept their word about keeping your identity secret so Alder doesn’t get wind. Also, the bookies have money on Adrian. Ellis second.”

I recall speaking to Adrian during our first meal here. He gave off a real pompous vibe. I doubt I’ll pick him. Ellis was the curly black haired one. They were all handsome enough, not that that mattered given what I’m after. A malleable partner. Or one uninterested in ruling for whatever reason. I drain my wine glass and Kai replaces it with a full one, wordlessly. I can feel his nervousness.

The door opens and two more male Fae enter. First is Blake, the one with the long orange hair and a haughty face. Behind him must be... a servant. But he’s too well dressed. When this Fae walks to the last dias and steps up, looking around nervously, I blink in shock.

Dark mossy green hair is tied half-up but flows straight and long down his back. His skin is a lighter shade of green, a pretty seafoam color almost. I study his face; sure enough, he has the same bone structure as the rest. He stands, hands behind his back, looking awkward.

I walk slowly towards them, rather surprised at this obviously not-fire Fae in the Larkstead family. I am hoping I can speak with them each without the entire crowd listening. When I get close, I wave Lo and Kai back.

“No,” Kai says gruffly.

I roll my eyes and he growls. “The next time you roll your eyes at me, princess, you’d better be cumming in my mouth.”

I blink. “Or else what?”

“Or else you’re going to be ass-up over my knee,” he whispers into my ear.

I shiver but manage not to roll my eyes again. “Korben will stay near me. I’m not at constant risk of assisination.”

Kai glares.

Korben offers his arm and I smile at him. “Let’s go meet those cows, milady,” he says in his silly voice and I giggle.

I sip my wine as I approach the first. Adrian, I recall. The one the Ordained said was after me. I dislike that idea. This isn’t a chase. They don’t get a godsdamn vote.

Adrian’s ivory skin is the same shade as his father’s, but his hair is the bright red of his mother. It’s cut shorter, but long enough to have a wave to it. His dark brown eyes are upon me greedily.

“Lady Oleander, I’m glad you’ve decided to speak with me,” he purrs. I can feel him mentally undressing me.

“Lord Adrian.” I nod. “Tell me something I don’t know.” I smile, determined to give them all a chance.

He blinks. “How am I to know the breadth of your knowledge?”

I raise an eyebrow. “I didn’t say tell me something important. For instance, I don’t know what you had for breakfast this morning.” I smile, letting it take a friendly teasing edge.

Adrian frowns and huffs, looking down at me. “Such a silly question. Why don’t I instead tell you about the striking glow your eyes have, hm?”

I nod, pursing my lips. “Lovely to see you,” I say over my shoulder, headed for the next.

Blake, the supposed heir. His skin is a pretty dove gray and his long, smooth hair a startling orange.

“Lady Oleander,” he greets politely.

“Lord Blake,” I say, “And who are you to marry?”

He has the manners to look embarrassed. “Lady Ricia, of the Singehands.”

I smile evilly, “We’ll see about that.”

Korben leans in, giggling, “You didn’t even stop walking.”

Chase and Dante are the bold, red-skinned sons, one with gray hair, the other with white. I notice it’s cut to the same length, just brushing their shoulders.

“Lord Chase,” I greet with a smile.

“Lady Oleander,” he begins, a worried look upon his face, “I must tell you something before we speak.” His eyes flick to Dante who nods reassuringly.

“Of course. What is it?”

“Dante and I are twins. We do everything together. If you choose one of us, I must beg you to take us both.”

I blink fast, the image of being pressed between their two lithe, red chests not an unwelcome one. Korben swallows a laugh.

“Do you even share lovers?” I ask, mostly teasing.

“We do, Lady. We’ve never experienced anything major without the other. I beg you not to separate us.” He looks frantic.

I nod, “Thank you for telling me.”

Korben leads me forward, “Lo and Kai would have kittens if you brought two men home.”

It’s my turn to gulp back a giggle. I hand Korben my empty wine glass.

“Lord Dante, your twin has explained your concerns.”

“Thank you for considering them, Lady Oleander,” he responds with a polite smile.

Shit, they might be the best choice...choices. Even if their codependency is a bit...much.

Ellis’ green eyes are upon me already, the desire clear in his eyes. His shaggy black hair and ivory skin don’t clearly mark him as a fire Fae but that matters not to me. He flashes me a big grin and it makes me smile back.

“Lady Oleander, you look exquisite tonight. Well, you’ve looked delectable every time I’ve laid eyes upon you, but you are simply striking this evening.”

Smooth. An experienced flirt, hmm? Two can play at that game.

“Korben, would you fetch me a fresh glass of wine?”

Korben’s eyes narrow but he turns to do as asked while I turn back to Ellis.

“My lord,” I look up at him through my lashes, “And what would recommend you to be my husband?”

He grins again, and he is quite attractive. “Come closer, kitten.”

I step up to the dias and he leans down to whisper, “I would make sure my wife was well-fucked every night and spent her days relaxing: dancing, gardening, sewing, horse- or griffon-back riding, whichever she prefers. Until she gave us children, of course.” He smiles in a way that very clearly says he imagines this is a lovely proposal but the bile is at the back of my throat and panic hot in my chest. I swallow both down.

I smirk up at him, “Oh, my lord, we misunderstand each other. I want to rule the realm , not a nursery.” And I walk away. Korben joins me, glass of wine in hand.

I stop in front of the green-skinned Fae. He’s still standing at attention, his gaze locked on the far wall and hands behind his back. His face is blank.

I stare up at him for a moment. His face is beautiful, delicate but masculine. He’s tall and slender, like all of his brothers, a feature they got from their mother. I wonder which of his parents have earth or water in their line. It’s not a flaw to have a mixed bloodline; honestly, most Fae do. But the way they hid him... I frown, considering what his life must be like. They are obviously ashamed of him, ruining their secret. Which is not even a big deal.

“You must be Lord Finnick,” I say quietly.

“I am. Pleased to meet you, Lady Oleander.” His voice is lyrical and I immediately wonder what his magic is. His eyes don’t move from the wall.

“Will you look at me, Lord Finnick?”

Silence. But he takes a deep breath and looks down at me.

His eyes are a deep, honey, gold-flecked brown and I’m immediately reminded of a dark river in the fall sunlight. I smile at him.

Those eyes hold only... not quite sadness but something akin.

Resigned, he’s resigned.

“Will you tell me of your favorite memory, Lord Finnick?”

He blinks slowly, eyes taking me in by degrees, without hurry.

A tiny smile plays at the corners of his lips. “The swimming hole. A peak over in the Quiet Mountains. It’s a depression on the now-flat top of the mountain. The water is deep and crystal clear and you can only reach it by griffon. It’s shockingly cold, but the elevation leaves the sun warm and intense.”

I smile at him. “It sounds lovely. Thank you for sharing it with me.”

He nods hesitantly before straightening and re-focusing his gaze into the distance.

I turn on my heel. As soon as I am back in the crowd, Lonan and Kai flank me.

“Well?” Kai asks tightly as I thread through the Fae. I stop in front of Lord and Lady Larkstead.

“I’ve made my decision. Let’s find Ordained Eliska and make our vows.” I state flatly.

“Oh, wonderful, pumpkin!” Lady Larkstead grins, “My son, whichever you pick, will be so excited to be joining our families.” “Leland, get Eliska and meet us upstairs,” she coos, as she threads her arm through mine.

“So, child, Adrian or Ellis?” She asks, giggling. “Both have a line of past lovers to recommend them,” she smiles coyly.

I recoil. What a fucking weird thing for a mother to say.

“Neither. Finnick. Bring him,” I command her . “We’ll meet you in the family dining hall.”

Lonan takes my arm and leads me away, towards the back door, as Lady Larkstead stands there, gape-mouthed.

As soon as we are out of the main hall, Kai asks, “The green-skinned one?”

I nod without speaking. Kai grunts in an unreadable manner. We take the back stairs in silence. My stomach turns over, nervous. Oh well, at least I’m getting laid tonight.

We enter the dining room and Kai lights the candles.

Lonan quickly takes my elbows and kisses me. “I love you, Oleander. You are a piece of me. I will follow you to the ends of the realm.” He kisses me again as Kai frames me in from behind, laying a kiss in the center of my head.

“And I, Oleander, my princess. I am yours: spirit, body, mind. I will love you through all my lifetimes, baby.”

I soften into their bodies. I turn to kiss Kai. Korben clears his throat and we separate just as the door opens.

In troops Lord and Lady Larkstead, followed by Finnick, who looks shocked. Ordained Eliska is last and she shuts the door firmly.

Eliska throws me a little smile and it makes me feel strangely proud.

“Are we ready for the pact?” She asks as they cross the room.

“Yes,” I answer firmly.

“And tomorrow morning, you’ll emerge for the closing of the bond?” She verifies.

I nod.

She turns to Finnick, “Do you understand the terms?”

He nods as he quietly says, “Yes.”

I give him a reassuring smile. He looks nervous.

“Good,” Eliska says, extending her hands to us. She takes one of our hands in each of hers and gently pulls us closer, placing his hand on top of mine.

His sparkling eyes finally meet mine and I’m drawn in.

Ordained Eliska takes a deep breath, and my eyes flick to her. She’s drawing down power and it’s palpable. I fucking hate Monkswicks normally, but she doesn’t make my skin crawl. Perhaps because she’s a woman. Or maybe because she’s so damn pretty.

“Do you, Oleander Stonesthrow, swear your body in bond with this Fae, Finnick Larkstead?”

“I do,” I respond.

“And do you, Finnick Larkstead, swear your body in bond with this Fae, Oleander Stonesthrow?”

“The Lord and Lady will it be so.” She nods. “We will test your betrothal bond in the morning.” She smiles at us widely, eyes twinkling.

Finnick lets go of my hand slowly, turning to his parents who whisper to him. The four of us stand silent until he turns back to me.

“Oleander,” he says, a thread of strength in his voice, “Betrothed. Let us go to my rooms.”

Kai and Lonan both start to speak but I hold up my hand to them. “I would be more comfortable in my rooms, Finnick. Surely you wouldn’t deny me that comfort?” I smile shyly.

Finnick takes both my hands drawing me in. He dips his head, resting it against the top of mine. “Of course not, beloved.”

Beloved? Alright. At least he seems like he’ll be easy to handle.

“Thank you, Finnick,” I smile up at him, all sugar and no spice. He’ll find out the true ratio soon enough. “Come,” I say, starting for the door, holding his hand.

No one speaks a word until we’re at the door of my, rarely used, rooms.

“One moment, Finnick,” I say softly.

He nods and I step away to talk to Kai, Lonan, and Korben–who is a few steps away politely waiting.

If I was expecting more kind words and gentle sentiment from my men, I was sorely mistaken.

Lonan is grinning. “Well, Ollie, have fun with that wet dishrag. I’m going to fuck Kai all night long. I think we’ll start in the shower, so that after the first round, we can suck each other off at the same time.” He nods decisively and Kai’s smirk grows. “He’ll take every inch of my cock and beg for more , harder , again . He’ll cry out my name in ecstasy. Feel free to enjoy that thought while you’re getting a mediocre weinering.” And he spins and heads to his room.

I purse my lips, annoyed as fuck. Kai and Korben watch, to make sure I’m safe, until I slip into my room, tugging Finnick with me. Fuck.

I stride into the room and turn in a circle. The sun is still bright in the sky and there is a large table laden with food. My stomach rumbles. It’s dinner time and I missed lunch getting ready. I frown. It’ll have to wait. I want to get this over with.

Finnick stands in the center of the room, hands once again behind his back, looking awkward.

An awful thought strikes me. “Finnick... you’ve been with a Fae before, right?”

He blushes and it’s kind of adorable. “I have, Lady Oleander. Have... have you?”

Gods, I am going to wreck him. The thought inexplicably cheers me.

I sigh. “Yes. And good. I think—”

“We should eat and get to know one another?” He suggests, a warm smile on his face.

“Uh, no. Not as such. I think we should meet the requirements first.”

“The requirements?” His face falls. “Oh, yes, I suppose, if you think that best.”

I nod firmly. “I do. Get undressed and bend over the bed,” I command.

Finnick hesitates, his face confused, but I’m in a wretched mood. He raises a hand, his long, straight pale green hair now loose down his back. He steps towards me.

“Betrothed. My beloved Oleander—” he starts.

I grin in an evil way. “I think we need to get a few things straight, Finn.” I turn and pull the laces my dress, tugging at them gently as I cross the room. I step out of the gown, revealing my black strapless bra and panties.

I dig in my pack as I continue. “This—” I pause my search to gesture between us, “Is a marriage of convenience. We both know this. And we both know that tomorrow, we must emerge and declare before Ordained Eliska that we’ve had sex.”

I keep digging. I know I put it in here somewhere . “And you see, I’d rather drug you, smother you, and say you died in your drunken sleep than chance falling pregnant. Ah-ha!” I add triumphantly, yanking the black strappy thing out of the bag.

Finnick blinks quickly, “I... understand your concern for pregnancy, but is that not the point of the union?”

“Get undressed,” I direct again, trying to untangle the thing. He starts on his vest buttons slowly.

“No, the point of the union is an alliance. A partner at my side, mayhap. But regardless, I cannot become pregnant in the middle of a war. You men seem to think carrying a babe is all sunshine and rainbows.” I step into it, tugging it up. I reach under me, sliding my panties to one side so I can insert the inner end into me. Fuck, it feels good . I’ve been... empty... since our bonding. Perhaps my shitty mood will improve after an orgasm.

Finnick’s eyes are wide as I pull the ends, tightening the straps over my hips. He’s now down to his breeches, his slender chest lightly muscled, with a little dark green trail of hair down his belly into his pants.

“So, as I said. Bend over the bed, and we’ll have sex.” I wrap my hand around the phallus and open the tin of lube.

“I... I... was expecting to...” He trails off.

“Yes, well, the problem with expectations is when things don’t live up to them.” I step to him, stroking the lube on my cock as I lean into him. I tilt my face up and he hesitates but leans to brush our lips together. He’s delicate and tentative and it’s almost refreshing. I press my tongue to the seam of his lips and he parts them for me. I press into him with a little groan, overwhelmed with the thought of how I’ll be entering his body again soon. At my noise, his arms wrap around me, resting on my back. I enjoy the kiss awhile longer; he is a good kisser. I feel him grow hard under his breeches and I smirk as I press my wet dick to his naked stomach. He makes a sound at that.

I pull away and put my hand on his breeches. “May I?” I ask sweetly.

He nods, his golden eyes upon me. I unlace them swiftly and I get onto my knees. I intend to let Lo and Kai know that Finnick got to enjoy my mouth.

Kneeling in front of him, I look up, my eyes wide. His eyes meet mine and he whimpers. I tug his pants down and a long, slender cock springs free. The end is a darker green than the rest of him and his foreskin is partially pulled back, the head wet. I lick my lips as I look back up at him. I wrap a hand around his base and pull his cockhead into my mouth. He moans, eyes still on me. I focus on his dick, which is twitching in my mouth. I take him as deep as I can, squeezing my tightly fingers so they meet around him at the base. I pull back and lick the head, trying to get his flavor. I lick again and his hips press forward. He doesn't thrust, just tilts in hungrily and that makes me clench around the phallus inside me. I suck him down again, then release him with a pop, standing smoothly.

His hands go to my shoulders and he kisses me, less sweetly this time and I smile into it.

“Now, betrothed, turn and bend over for me.” I smile as I wait for him to obey. He will. I know it.

His eyes bore into me and he slowly turns, folding over the tall bed. I step up to him, and use my knee to spread his legs more.

“Up,” I say as I reach under him, tugging his cock. He lifts his hips and I point his cock to the floor off the edge of the bed.

“Good boy,” I say at his responsiveness. An evil grin hits my face. “Are you a maid, here, betrothed?” I ask softly as I rub my fingers over his puckered hole.

A groan escapes him as I press two fingers into him. I slide them in and out slowly, his ass tight.

He’s silent, frozen, so I thrust my fingers a little faster, curling them, looking for the spot that men like. “Are you?”

“Yes,” he gasps and I notice a line of precum dripping down the bedspread below his cock. I smirk.

“Mmmm,” I purr, “Fuck, that’s hot. So...this is mine, hmm?”

“Yes, Oleander,” he struggles to get the words out as I tease him, pressing hard and enjoying watching him leak. I’m going to use him like this until it reaches the floor, I decide. His noises get frantic and high pitched so I tug my fingers out.

“Fuck, Finn, you’re really close already, hmm?”

I add lube to my fingers and press them back in.

He’s silent and I fuck him hard with my fingers. “When I ask a question, I expect an answer, Finnick.”

“Yes, yes, Oleander,” he whimpers.

“Good boy,” I say and another small squirt of seed drips out of his cock. Almost.

You do not have permission to finish, understand?” I curl my fingers and rock my hand in and out.

“Yes,” he whispers even as his cock drips for me.

There it is , I think, as the dribble touches the stone floor.

“Good boy,” I purr again, “I’ll reward you with my cock.”

I remove my fingers and step closer, rubbing the length of the phallus up and down his crack. He makes a sound of need and I smile.

“Just relax, Finnick, and let your soon to be wife fuck your ass,” I whisper as I press forward. His ring of muscle resists and I angle my dick a little differently, hand wrapped around it as I lean into him. It suddenly gives and he cries out as I jerk myself to a halt, the head of my cock inside him.

“Just breathe. You will take me.” I stroke a hand down his back, over his ass cheek, down the back of this thigh and up again. When his little noises settle, I press further into him. In, and back out, over and over, working my dick up his ass.

“You’re allowed to cum,” I say softly.

He makes an agreeable sound and I press the last of my length into him. He groans, hips reaching forward instinctively, away from the intrusion.

I slide all the way out, until just the realistic head the phallus is gripped by his ring of muscle. I thrust smoothly inside him.

“Oh, oh, fuck, Oleander,” Finnick cries out as he cums rather easily and suddenly. His hips thrust into the bed as I hear the splatter of his seed on the floor. I continue my pace and eventually his breathing slows.

My pussy clenches on the dick inside me and I start to fuck Finnick harder.

“Beloved,” Finn pants, back arching as I fuck him with deep, short strokes, the slap of our bodies sending waves of pleasure through me. “Oleander, I... I finished.”

It takes me a moment to understand his meaning and when I do, I bark out a laugh.

“Ohh, no, Finn, we’re not done. I’m fucking you until I cum. Maybe twice.” I thrust harder, “Don’t I deserve release, betrothed?”

“Of.”

“Course.”

He pants between thrusts of my hips.

“Good. Then accept my cock up your sweet little ass while I chase my pleasure.”

And I do just that, thrusting hard and fast, making the toy inside me stroke me in return. It takes me a bit but I’m there soon. I grind against his body, my clit aching for the pressure and then I explode.

“Fuck, fuck, fuck,” I chant in time with the waves of pleasure and the hard thrusts of my dick into Finnick.

As my body relaxes, my thrusts come to a halt. I fold over him, kissing his back.

“Now, tell me, betrothed, who does this tight little hole belong to?”

I pull out swiftly and he lets out a cry.

“You, beloved. Only you.”

I purr and drop to my knees behind him. “Your cock is hard again, Finn. Do you want another release?”

He looks over his shoulder, “Yes, please, Oleander.”

I grin and wrap a hand around him. “I’ll milk you. Can’t have my future husband walking around with a hard dick all day tomorrow, can I?”

I press two fingers up his well-used asshole and fuck him in time with my strokes.

“Go ahead, I want it fast, Finn. Give it to me. Make even more of a mess on the floor for me.”

He lets out a long, low moan and I revel in the power he’s yielded to me. When his cock jumps in my hand, letting out several long streams, I smile and lean in to kiss his thigh.

“Perfect, Finnick. Stay here, love.” I stand and head to the bathroom to take off the harness, wash my hands and grab a wet towel.

When I return, his pretty green body is relaxed over the bed. “Hey,” I say softly, wiping up his crack. After, I toss the towel over the mess on the floor. “Come snuggle?”

He pushes himself up and runs a hand through his hair. “Do you... want to?” His voice is unsure and it makes my heart hurt.

“Yeah, of course.” An orgasm did improve my mood. Now I just feel a teeny bit guilty for being so... brusque, mayhap, with Finnick.

I unhook my bra and grab my night gown with my back to him. I hear him get into the bed. I turn, smiling, and climb in. He looks nervous but holds his arm out for me. I smile and tuck myself under it as I try to find a comfortable spot on his chest. He’s more slender than Lo. I quickly push thoughts of Kai and Lonan out of my head.

It takes us a minute of adjusting to find our spots, but once we do, our breathing syncs easily. His hand rests on my arm and I realize he’s using his thumb to stroke it absent-mindedly.

“Oh fuck,” I say, loud in the still room, “Did I... take you from a lover?”

He looks down at me, expression unreadable. “Would it matter if you did, Oleander?”

“Call me Ollie, please. And yes, it would matter to me. It wouldn’t change things, but it would matter.”

He’s silent a moment, studying me. “I do not have a current lover.”

I nod, looking away. Some of his sleek looking hair is laying across his chest and I let my hand slide slowly to it, ready to stop if he says anything, but he’s silent.

“Mmm, it’s as silky as it looks,” I murmur.

“Is yours not?” He asks.

My hair is still pinned up in two tight buns. “No, it’s soft but not smooth like yours.”

“May I let it down?” He sounds hesitant.

“Sure,” I say, tilting my head for him.

His hand comes up and tugs out one, then the other, hair stick. I feel him reach to set them carefully aside before his hand comes back to gently muss my hair so it finishes unwrapping. “Your mint streaks are adorable,” he says quietly.

I giggle. “Mint streaks. I like that.”

“You are an earth Fae?”

“Yes, both my parents were.”

He nods.

“And you are...?” I let it hang, sure this is a sore spot.

He merely smiles, “A water Fae. My mother’s line is mixed, much to my parents’ chagrin.”

I make a soothing noise. How fucking terrible for him. A powerful family, older brothers to torment him, parents ashamed.

“Water surrounded by all this fire. How did you do it?” I ask gently.

“Do what?”

I shrug, hand going back to his hair, running my fingers through it. “Survive.”

His thumb resumes stroking my arm and I find it soothing.

“No other option, really.”

“I can understand that,” I whisper.

I feel him look down at me, taking me in. My stomach growls unexpectedly in the silence.

Finn lets out a little laugh. “Well, I’m a terrible husband already, I’m letting my wife starve. Stay, Oleander. Ollie. Stay, Ollie.” His voice is calm and sweet, obviously not an order.

I nod and he slips out from under me and walks nude to the table full of food. I sit up, gathering blankets around me as I watch the play of muscle in his back and rather nice ass. He’s probably of a height with Lonan, but with finer bone structure. He pours two glasses of wine and grabs a heavy marble tray, bringing it over with them balanced on it and placing it on the bed in front of me. He returns and grabs a plate. I take my wine and sip. This after-sex bit is easier and more natural than I was expecting. I was half expecting to have to feign sleep to avoid him.

He comes and sits, folding one long leg underneath him and putting one plate heaped with food on the marble tray.

“What do you like, beloved?” He cocks his head, his rich green hair sliding silkenly.

As I silently stare at him, he blushes and continues, “A marriage of convenience and alliance it may be, but nonetheless we’ll need to coexist. I would like to get to know you. I would like this to... grow into feelings.”

I reach out, taking his hand and giving it a squeeze. “I would like that, Finnick.” I let go and take a sip of wine. I look to the plate he brought us to share. I reach out and snatch a delicate chocolate pastry. His eyes follow me silently and I toss the entire thing into my mouth.

“Mmmm, shit, this is good!” I mutter around it.

He chuckles. “Our cook was a human baker before he came through the Veil Stones nearly a hundred years ago.” He smiles fondly.

I smile back. “Why is it that kitchens are universally safe places for young?”

He pops a tiny chicken tart into his mouth and chews thoughtfully. “I’d say I think it has something to do with the fact that a person who wants to create tasty food for folks has an inherently nurturing nature.”

I blink.

He picks up a small square dessert, topped with a frosting flower. “Try this, Ollie. My favorite.” He holds it out and I lean forward slowly. He lets me come to him, and I wrap my lips around it. I pull away and start chewing. To my surprise, the flower is hardened sugar and what I assumed was cake is more like cooled liquid chocolate.

“Oh my Goddess,” I mutter, “This is incredible.”

He’s beaming. “Cook calls it fudge.”

I finish the rich nibble and wash it down with a sip of wine. “Yup, that settles it, we’re stealing your parents’ cook.”

He laughs, a free sound, his head tilting back. When he stops, he smiles kindly at me and holds out his free hand. I take it and he laces our fingers together.

“Tell me something,” he says, his eyes meeting mine.

I arch an eyebrow playfully.

“Hmmm,” I tap my finger to my lips. “What do you want to know, Finn?”

He chuckles, “Well, maybe we can start with how you found yourself in the company of rebels?”

I smile. “Uh, a friend dropped me nearby. I had been... planning on seducing Commander Lonan for several years.”

He snorts, “Really?”

I nod, “I figured he was my best chance at revenge. At the throne.”

He tilts his head and that sleek hair of his cascades over his naked shoulder. “You spent years planning on seducing a rebel captain you’d never seen in order to get him to kill your brother?”

I shrug. “Yes.”

He laughs, open and free. When he stops his honeyed eyes meet mine. “That’s maniacal, you know that, right?” But his tone indicates nothing but respect.

“Well, when your sibling kills everyone who has ever known you and keeps you chained for years, revenge becomes a touchstone. A way to stay sane.” I look away and continue, softer, “I had lots of plans, back then. And when I managed to kill the one soul I saw besides my tormentors, and escape, I ran. Aimlessly, for over a year, doing anything to survive. When I accidentally stumbled across an air shifter, she took pity on me. Led me to clean water and a nearby cave while in her starling form. After I trusted her, a year or so later, she led onward, to a small village. I found kindness there. And when I trusted enough, the starling returned with a... larger friend. Eventually, they brought me to Guivre and I found safety, and friendship too. Once I was safe and able to realy heal–though it took many years—my mind turned right back to revenge that needed to be exacted.” I shrug again, trying to lighten up my words. Why did I just tell him all that? I’ve never even told Lo and Kai that.

Even though my eyes are dry, Finn gently takes my now empty wine glass from my hand and puts it on the platter, which he moves to the table. He sits on the bed near me and holds out his arms, his face tentative. I slide forward, into his lap and arms. He holds me tight but tenderly and I rest my head against his shoulder.

After a bit, I notice he’s rocking gently. I smile into his bare flesh.

“Are you still hungry, beloved?” His lyrical voice eases something inside me.

I shake my head.

“Good, to bed then, little wife.” He stands, me in his arms, and tugs the sheets down. He gently lays us down and his leg curls over mine as we lay on our sides. He kisses my forehead. We lay in silence, our breath mingling and I close my eyes.

They snap open when Finnick says, “I am the youngest, and an accident, as my brothers love to tell me. My mother almost did not survive my birth, another strike against me. And I was so obviously not a fire. My father can barely stand to look at me. Growing up was... hard.”

His voice breaks here and it takes him a moment to continue. “But I spent time in the griffon roosts, and in town whenever I could sneak away. My mother found me a water Fae tutor who became like Grandmother to me. She taught me to use my magic. And once I could use it, well... I was able to stop the regular beatings from my brothers.”

My hand rises and I stroke his green chest. His arms tighten around me and he tucks his face into my loose hair.

“So you see, beloved, we’re both wounded. But we’re stronger together, Oleander.”

A smile plays at my lips, tears seeping from beneath my eyelids.