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The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01

By: Kindasortacrazy



Hey, guys! Welcome back to my world of erotic fiction. I've missed you! For those of you who finished the 'Dealmaker' series with Claire and her demons, you'll recall them mentioning old Lucifer arranging to marry a miss Michelle Harlowe at the end. Well, here it is. This is young Michelle's story, and it's my first story written in the first-person POV. Tell me what you think.

Enjoy!

Chapter 1: A Wedding for the Ages

I glare at the ornate mirror in front of me, sending my seething hatred out into the smooth glass. A pretty young woman with a lovely oval face, warm hazel eyes, full lips and lightly tanned skin glares back at me. Her dark hair is piled on top of her head, tiny strands of pearls weaving in and out of the intricately twisted locks of hair. Most people would remark how beautiful she looks today, with her soft lips and shimmery eye shadow.

All I can think of is how pissed I look.

It's my wedding day. I should be happy. But elation is the last thing I'm feeling. Dread, anger and horror better describe my state of mind. My mother has royally fucked up this time, and now I'm having to pay for her mistakes. Fantastic.

My mother has had dreams of becoming part of royalty since she was a girl. Four years ago, she made the colossal mistake of making a deal with the Devil himself, in order to gain that prestigious place in society. My mother got her wish, marrying into the English Royal family after my father 'coincidentally' died in a car wreck.

Unfortunately, as is often the case with my mother, she forgot to hold up her end of the bargain. Once she got her ticket to the crown, she had to make her payment by promising her soul to be a servant to Lucifer himself for the next three centuries. My mother found a way to weasel out of the bargain, so I was put in her place. Though, instead of being Lucifer's servant, he's decided to take me as his bride.

Servant or bride...I honestly can't say which fate is worse.

I continue to glare at my reflection, ruefully taking in every facet of my appearance as my mother bridesmaids finish the last details. They flit around the room, nervous about the wedding that's just minutes away. I don't know why they're so freaked. I'm the one getting married to Hell's ruler, not them.

Still, I've grown tired of arguing over this whole charade. The demons that came to claim me promised that mom wasn't completely free of her deal. Once this wedding is over with, she'll have to pay up anyway. That brings a small smile to my face, and I spend a moment looking over my reflection, reveling in the thought of sweet payback.

As demanded for such a formal occasion, my mother has decked me out in the finest wedding dress she could find. Unfortunately, since I'm marrying Lucifer, it can't be too formal, so she made a few adjustments to the dress to make it more appealing to his palate.

I end up wearing a sleeveless white satin fit-and-flare gown. It hugs every curve I possess, making me feel more like a runway model than a bride. The dress reaches the floor, even with my heels, and has a long train trailing behind me that's trimmed with lace along the edge. A thick ribbon sash is tied around my waist, cinching my figure in and showing off my curves even more. A high chocker-style lace collar wraps around my throat, with three buttons at the back of my neck that hold my dress in place.

Honestly, that's all that can be called 'demure' about my dress. The rest of it is fantastically audacious. My dress is backless, with miles of skin showing from my shoulders to the small of my back. The lace collar and trim along the bottom is jet black, as is the ribbon tied around my waist. There's also a generous oval cutout in the front, stretching down from the base of my throat down to the bottom of my sternum. It shows much more of my cleavage than is really necessary.

It's a beautiful dress, but incredibly sinister as well. God, I hate my mother right now.

"Stand up straight, Michelle." My mother makes sure my intricate hairstyle is secure. "At least smile a little. It's your wedding day!"

I deepen my scowl just to piss her off. Normally I'm lively, happy and loving around everyone I know. It's who I naturally am. Not today, though. I think I deserve to be a little disappointed and begrudging today. After all, this is my mother's fault, not mine. I can be pissed if I want to.

"Come on, Michelle. This is important!" She checks to make sure that my dress is secure.

Yes. God forbid I have a wardrobe malfunction on my wedding day. It is Lucifer, after all. Wouldn't want to shock him.

"I'll stick with my frown, thanks." My tone is sharper than she's prepared for.

"Michelle." She comes around to face me, hands on her hips and her mouth set in a thin line. She's dressed in her black satin evening dress and wears a row of pearls around her neck.

How my mother and I are related, I'll never know. I stand at least three inches taller than her, even without my heels, and my body is far slimmer. My hair is a dark chocolate brown than curls down past my shoulders. Hers is a dirty blond that's pin straight and stops are her collarbone. My lips are fuller, my face leaner, and my skin two shades paler. Her eyes are a bright emerald green; mine are my father's soft hazel-gold. The only physical attributes we share is her straight nose and slender jaw. Other than that, we're as different and a mother-daughter combination can be.

Not that my mother's unattractive, but she's far from the knockout she believes herself to be. The only reason Richard married her was because Lucifer charmed him into it as part of her deal. My step-brother Daniel has told me many times that his father would have chosen me way before my mother. Not that I'd marry Richard, anyway. He's a nice guy, but way too old to be my type. Besides, he's blonde.

"We need this to happen," she snaps at me. "This is all part of the deal we made. We have our power and our wealth. Now we have to pay it back."

I glare at her. My mother's never been good at admitting guilt and taking responsibility. Today is no exception.

"No," I bark. "This is all part of your deal that you decided to skip out on. You have your wealth and money, and I'm paying it back for you."

She rolls her eyes at her, her trademark defensive mechanism. If she can make me feel guilty, then she doesn't have to shoulder as much of the blame. I love my mother, I do, but she's incredibly self-serving. She's also got an ego the size of China.

"Stop this." Her eyes narrow, matching mine. "This has to happen. Would you rather have him come after all of us?"

Well, you're screwed anyway, so what do I care?

She does have a point, though. My stepfather and my two stepbrothers had nothing to do with this deal other than being pawns in it. They haven't made any deals or tried to win any bets against Lucifer. They've just put up with my mother and I for the last four years, handling my occasional outbursts of rage and her hyper-neediness. They've been good to us, and they don't deserve to be dragged any further into this than they already are.

I sigh and cross my arms over my chest, glaring at my reflection once more.

Fine then. For Daniel, Richard and Marcus. But only for them.

This is where I start to despise this soft heart of mine. It's impossible for me to knowingly harm someone unless I know I'll save them later. I've inherited my father's kindness and selflessness as well, and it's gotten me into, and out of, a few sticky situations.

Today, my tender heart has sentenced me to an eternity of marriage to Lucifer.

"Come on," she grips my shoulders and spins me around. "Your wedding starts in ten minutes. We have to get you down to the service."

I am shoved towards the door of my dressing room, laughing to myself. My family and I have never been Catholic; we're not affiliated with any religion whatsoever. But Lucifer himself has chosen to have the wedding in one of California's most prominent cathedrals. It's the ultimate middle finger to God himself.

My mother and I rush out the door, followed closely by my bridesmaids. They're all succubae, really. No one I know or care about. They're just here to add to the ceremony. The five of them are gorgeous, voluptuous and completely heartless.

My maid of honor, Leyna, follows close behind me. I know she's staring daggers at the back of my head, but I'm too panicked to care. She's tall, with long cherry-red hair, pale skin and bright yellow eyes. She's also insanely jealous that I get to marry Lucifer and she doesn't. Leyna's had a crush on her master for centuries, trying in vain to get him to notice her over the so-called 'skinny human girls' like me. But her luck has run out, and now she's pissed because I get the honor she's been craving.

Believe me, Leyna. If I could put you in my place, I would.

We race down the intricate halls of the cathedral, rushing past carved statues of saints and dead priests. I can almost feel the rage radiating off my soul-sucking bridesmaids. They hate the religious crap as much as I hate my situation. This is the last place any of us want to be.

We finally stop just outside the main pathway of the church, hiding behind one of the massive stone walls. There's a long red velvet carpet laid out on the cold marble floor of the church. It's covered in dead flower petals. How fitting

Across from us, on the other side of the entrance, a line of groomsmen -- all high-ranking demons -- waits for their cue to start the procession. My mother ushers my bridesmaids forward, lining them up in their respective spots. Leyna passes me for the last time in my unmarried life, glaring at me and turning up her nose at my obvious humanness. I roll my eyes at her and turn to face the wall, pressing my forehead to the cool stone. The cold feels good and allows me to gather myself for a moment.

My mother rushes back to me, turning me so I face her. She runs her hands over my dress and hair, making sure nothing is out of place. An unknown male demon races up to us from around the corner, handing me a bouquet of dead roses and bowing his head slightly. He slinks back into the main hall of the cathedral, taking his seat in the pews.

My mother's warm hands cup may face, forcing my head up so I have to look at her. She smiles softly at me, reaching out to bush my cheek with her fingers.

"You look so beautiful," she whispers.

I give the best smile I can force. Her pep talks are the last thing I want to hear right now.

She laughs to herself, tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear. "Your father would have had a heart attack looking at you now."

That makes me smile. I remember my father as the most loving, kind, compassionate man I've ever known. The person who taught me how to read, who helped me with my homework, who comforted me after every nightmare. Tears threaten to escape my eyes. He didn't deserve to die the way he did, crushed between two hulking beasts of metal. He died because my mother wanted power, because she couldn't care less about what happened to him as long as she got what she wanted.

But he died being my father and loving me. That makes my mother's sacrifices even harder to bear.

I narrow my eyes at my mother. "He's not here to see this because of you," I whisper.

She sighs and tries to guilt-trip me again. "Don't do this. He wouldn't want to see you upset on your wedding day."

I bite down on my lip, holding back all the hateful words I want to say. They won't do me any good here. Besides, she hasn't gotten off scot-free from her deal. She'll have to pay up the moment this wedding is over. I can let loose then.

I jerk my head out of her hands, turning my gaze to the wall again. "Go sit down."

She sighs again and nods, patting my shoulder gently before she turns to leave.

Wow, mom. How much more love could you show to me in one day? You're smothering me.

She rounds the corner of the wall I'm hiding behind, disappearing from view as she goes to take her seat. Music starts, a soft, rhythmic melody, and I watch as the pairs of demons and succubae start their walk down the aisle. I sigh and press my head against the cool stones again, trying to clear my head of any emotions.

A soft tap on my shoulder brings me out of my pity-party. I turn to see Richard standing beside me, giving me the warmest smile he can muster on a day like this. His blonde hair is combed back, and his warm amber eyes smile at me in the sunlight. He's dressed in a beautifully tailored tuxedo, with silver cufflinks gleaming on his sleeves and a navy tie. For an old English royal who will never see the throne, he looks - dare I say it? - dashing.

"You alright?" he asks in his signature upper-crust British drawl.

I smile at him. "About as good as I'm going to get."

He smiles wider. "I know. Days like this, you don't really feeling dancing, do you?"

I shake my head. "Not really."

"Hey." He loops his arm around my shoulders. "I know this is one hell of a difficult position to be pushed into, but I know you, Michelle. You'll make it work. You always have. You have a resilience that would make most soldiers applaud you."

I smile again. Richard's a great stepfather, nearly a perfect replacement for my own dad. He loves me as his own kid, even though he only married my mom four years ago. He could cheer up the most depressed soldier in a matter of minutes. He should consider becoming a professional inspirational speaker.

The music changes, switching from the soft melody to the traditional wedding march. My death knell, really. Richard pats me on the shoulder and starts to lead me towards the plush red carpet the stretches down the aisle towards my soon-to-be husband.

"Head up," he whispers. "And do try to smile. I know you don't want to, but it's best if the old demon at least thinks you're enjoying yourself."

I nod and straighten my spine, holding my bouquet straight and plastering a small smile on my face. It's honestly the best I can do.

We reach the carpet and turn towards the enormous cavern that is the main foyer of the crush. It's beautiful, with carved marble columns that reach the ceiling, dark-stained oak pews and breathtaking stained glass windows. The light they let in stains the marble floor red, blue and green. It's lovely, but empty and hollow like the former angel I'm about to marry. Ironically, the monstrous wooden cross that sits at the back of the church has been kept uncovered. Yet another 'fuck you' to God.

I'm going to be struck down here and now, aren't I?

At the end of the carpet stands a bishop at his podium, his Bible hand, a warm false smile on his face. My bridesmaids line the left side of the podium, some still glaring at me. The row of demons line up the right side, standing behind my husband. I force my eyes down, hoping to avoid looking at the dark creature I've been sacrificed into marrying.

Taking one final breath, Richard begins to walk me down the aisle. The pews are lined with people, most of them demons. The only humans here besides the priest are my mother and stepfamily; the rest of my family abandoned us long ago.

I keep my head up as we walk, trying to avoid eye contact with every person in the room. I manage to catch glimpses of people in the pews. My mother and my stepbrothers sit to my left. Mom's dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief while Marcus and Daniel glare at the demons in front of them. We've grown close these last few years; they don't want to see me married off like this.

To my right sits the gorgeous Claire Harding and her group of demons. Thaltos, Silthos. . . I can never remember the last one...Darrow! That's it! The three hulking hellions sit a few seats back from the pulpit, smiling and laughing as they whisper lewd jokes to one another. Claire is dressed in a floor-length saffron-yellow gown that glows against her pale skin. Her dark hair just brushes her slim shoulders. Her grey eyes find mine as I pass her, and she smiles at me.

I can understand her reaction. She's one of the lucky ones who's had a decent time in Hell with her demons. Three sons and three loyal demons make for a fairly acceptable environment even in the pits of tortured souls.

The last person I see as we walk makes me feel a little better about my chances here. Kara Haven, infamous in the underworld for having the balls to put Lucifer in his place, sits to my right directly opposite Claire. Her long, ink-black hair has teal ribbons woven into the braid, and her sapphire demon's mark radiates off her ivory skin. Her long violet gown is fitted perfectly to her every curve. She sits beside Darian, her half-blood husband; her other lovers, Ladrian and Lyzander, sit next to Darian.

Kara also sees me, her cobalt-blue piercing my own. She grins at me, then mouths a few silent words of encouragement.

I watch her lips move. "If he gets too rough, kick him in the balls."

I nod and hold back my smile. It's valuable advice from someone who's dealt with Lucifer first-hand. I'll keep it in mind in case something goes awry and I have to defend myself against my ravenous fallen angel.

I return my gaze to the priest ahead of me. He's decked out in full catholic wedding regalia, and is smiling warmly -- albeit falsely -- at me. I smile back, my heart nearly bursting from my ribcage. I ponder the thought of running away, of turning around, picking up my dress and hauling ass out the doors of the church. It would certainly give them something to talk about, but I dispel the idea.

I'm marrying Lucifer. If I run, I'm not going to get far.

Richard and I stop at the end of the carpet. I'm shaking as much as he is, but Richard never loses his composure. Ever the born-and-bred gentleman he was raised to be, he smiles at me, kisses my cheek and steps back to take his seat with the rest of the crowd.

I'm alone for a heartbeat as I take the final steps to my side of the pulpit. I can barely breathe, and I'm shaking so hard I could almost be considered epileptic. Still, I stand my ground, remembering that I'm doing this to protect what's left of my family from being dragged into this deal as well.

The priest starts the ceremony, talking about the dearly beloved and how happy of an occasion this is. Happy my ass. If he were in my position, he'd be halfway to Cuba by now.

Oh ,yes. I'm just ecstatic to be here.

I stare at my bouquet of rotten flowers, watching as the delicate, lifeless petals rustle and shake as I adjust my grip. A few of them break off, floating down onto the marble floor. My heart skips a beat watching them fall, my thoughts turning to how my family has fallen from upstanding citizens to wheelers and dealers with the Devil.

The priest asks if anyone opposes our union. The room is deathly silent. No one dares to say yes. Damn it.

Icy fingers reach out and cup my chin, startling me out of my trance. Gently, they tilt my head upwards so I can look my husband-to-be in the eye. Of course there has to be some semblance of torture here. Lucifer can't have his bride avoiding him during our wedding. I relent and let him raise my head, figuring it's better than fighting him in front of our audience. I take a breath and flick my eyes up to meet his.

My breath catches in my throat. My God, he's beautiful. Lucifer stands just feet away from me, his glory and absolute beauty nearly overwhelming me. I can see how he was picked as the best and most beautiful angel. He's flawless.

Bright golden eyes meet my own, shining in the warm sunlight filtering into the church. They're gorgeous, almost hypnotic. I fight the urge to get lost in those gorgeous eyes. If I do, I'll never come out.


The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01



The rest of him is just as striking. Fawn-brown hair lies perfectly across his head, just long enough for the strands to brush against the tips of his ears. His face is expertly chiseled, the angles of his face so sharp and straight I'm afraid I'll bleed if I touch him. His lips are full and soft, his nose straight as an arrow and his jaw strong. His cheekbones could cut glass.

His body is as mystifying as his face. His flesh has been loved by the sun just enough to tan him to perfection. The muscles of his chest and stomach are carved without being absurd. Strong biceps and slender shoulders compliment each other perfectly. He's wearing soft, ripped jeans and nothing else. Even his feet are bare. A pair of enormous jet black wings are folded against his back, the feathered tips splayed out on the marble floor. They gleam in the sunlight, tiny flecks of indigo and ruby shimmering along the surface of the feathers.

He's beyond perfect, and I suddenly feel incredibly insignificant.

His succulent lips turn up in a warm smile, and I have to take a deep breath to make sure I don't faint. He's absolutely gorgeous, yet undeniably sinister. That's a deadly combination if I've ever seen one.

He nods, and says 'I do." I briefly wonder why he'd say such a strange, random thing. Then I remember why I'm here and my stomach does a double back flip. We're at the part of the wedding where we agree to our marriage. I've been staring at him for so long I've missed the entire opening ceremony.

"Miss Harlowe?" The priests' soft voice breaks me out of his hypnotic gaze.

I shake my head and turn to him. "Yes?"

He cocks an impossibly bushy eyebrow at me. "Do you take Lucifer to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Do I?

I contemplate saying no, then dismiss the idea. That would just get me in trouble, perhaps even getting my family killed. I sigh to myself and nod, forcing a smile.

"I do."

The priest smiles and nods. "Would the couple like to say a few words?"

"No!" I bark without thinking. I want this over with as soon as possible. The fewer delays, the better.

Out of the corner of my eye, I watch Lucifer nod in agreement. He and I have different reasons for skipping this par of the wedding: he wants to consummate our marriage as quickly as possible and I want to get the hell out of here. Our minister is shocked for a moment, then collects himself again and nods, clearing his throat.

"No vows then, I assume?"

I shake my head. What am I supposed to say? That I really don't want to be here and that I hate my mother with every ounce of my being. I don't think that would go over well.

Lucifer also shakes his head. "The rings will do."

God, even his voice is perfect. I don't stand a chance.

The priest nods again. He motions for the best man - best demon, actually - to bring the rings forward. The hulking hellion steps forward, opening his massive palm to reveal two shining silver rings. The priest reaches out and grasps them from the demons' hand, though beyond his passive expression I can see fear flicker through his eyes. The priest turns to us again and asks us to each take a ring.

"You shall now exchange rings to symbolize your eternal affection and loyalty to each other," he announces.

I swallow, my throat suddenly tight. Besides knowing I'll have to kiss Lucifer at the end of this, this is the part I've been dreading the most about my wedding. Exchanging the rings symbolizes that we belong to one another. It will make our union real.

The priest blesses the rings then turns to Lucifer and asks him to place his ring on my hand. He smiles at me and reaches for my hand, holding it gently as he slides the slender silver band over my finger. It's a beautiful ring. Sterling silver, no doubt, and carved with tiny intertwining vines.

The priest turns to me and instructs me to do the same. I manage to move my arm, reaching out to hold his hand steady. I'm shaking out of nervousness, making my aim go from bad to awful. Still, I manage to set my emotions straight and slide the matching ring onto Lucifer's long finger. I pull my hands back, gripping my bouquet so hard I'm snap some of the dead stems and the flowers tumble to the floor.

Following Lucifer's own request, the priest brings forward a small candle for us to light. It's black as a startles night, ridiculing the sacredness and purity of our marriage. He hands each of us a match, and we light it together, symbolizing our unity. My hand trembles as I light the small flame, and I wonder if setting the church on fire will get me out of this.

The priest takes the candle thanks God for our loving union, asking for us to have a long and happy marriage. I can't even imagine how pissed the old geezer must be right now. To see his rebellious son mocking him in a marriage to an innocent human girl...the old man must be causing a volcano to erupt somewhere.

"Buy the power vested in me," the priest announces to our audience, "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

Oh no.

My gut twists. This is the part I've been dreading. We have to kiss. I sigh inside myself, silently cursing my mother. If it wasn't for her and her damn deal, I would be back home studying for my final exams and gearing up for Spring break. But no. She's ruined my entire college experience for the chance to see the English throne. What an incredible tradeoff.

"You may now kiss the bride."

I sigh and bite my tongue. As much as I detest having to kiss this beautifully sinister fallen angel, I come to the same conclusion I've found before: it will be easier and safer to just do it and get it over with.

I look up to see him smiling at me, his golden eyes gleaming with excitement. He steps forward, halting just a few inches away. He towers over me, gazing down at me with ravenous eyes. I can feel the icy chill radiating off his skin and a shiver slightly.

He pauses, allowing me to take one last deep breath to steady myself. He may be the master of Hell, but at least he has a little bit of chivalry in him. He closes the final few inches between us, wraps his arms around me and pulls me into a deep kiss.

My heart nearly stops. His lips are icy, soft and smooth as satin against my own. His mouth tastes of honey and chocolate and every other decadent flavor I can imagine. I manage to close my throat off for an instant, cutting off an involuntary moan. I can understand why Leyna wants him so badly. He's' beautiful, powerful and delicious.

I have to catch myself before I fall into him and completely give in. I want to walk out of here on my own two feet, not carried in his arms like a ragdoll because I got an overdoes of his kiss.

His moist tongue teases against my mouth, barley running over the curve of my lower lip as he contemplates ravaging me here and now. He pulls back, though, and never invades my mouth. We both know this isn't them time or place for such a ballsy display of affection. That will come later.

Satisfied that our bond is sealed, He pulls away, still holding me in his arms as he smiles down at me again. My head is spinning from that kiss, my body suddenly craving more of him. My stomach clenches in hunger. I mentally shake myself. I can't want him like this!

No! Bad body! No!

The priest asks us to turn and face our guests, giving me time to collect myself and get my emotions under control. Lucifer grasps my hand and turns to our audience, taking me with him. I stare out into a sea of humans and demons. Hundreds of pairs of eyes stare back at us, excited and relieved. I've done my job and nobody was killed. Success.

Unfortunately, not everyone is so happy with our new union. From the corner of my eye I see Leyna staring at me. She looks ready to eat me alive, yet she doesn't dare. I'm Lucifer's wife now. If she attacks me, she can kiss her perfectly formed ass goodbye. The rest of my bridesmaids don't give me the evil eye of death. Most stand silently, smiling and happy that their ruler has finally found someone new to torment. A few stare at the ground, disappointed that I have their coveted place.

Oh, ladies. If I could switch places with you and cheer you on, I would.

"Ladies and gentlemen. Humans and demons. I give you the king and queen of Hell!"

The congregation erupts in applause. Some cheer, some stand and clap wildly. My mother sits in her seat, dabbing at the tears spilling down her cheeks. Tears of joy, not sorrow or regret. She's realized what I figured out this morning: Not only is she now married into British royalty, but her daughter now rules Hell. To my mother, that's a double dose of wealth, power and privilege.

I scowl at her, furious. I knew I was her collateral if she's flaked on her deal. I never expected her to use me so freely. My mother now stands passes over Leyna on my list of people I hate.

Lucifer steps down off the small platform we're standing on, turning back to me as he tugs at my hand. I snap out of my planning for how I'm going to kill my mother and stare back at him, flustered. He smiles and tugs at my hand again. I nod vigorously and step down cautiously. I saw Evalyn, one of my maids, almost trip on the skirt of her dress as she walked up the aisle and I'm terrified I'll actually complete the foul-up.

Yes. God forbid I embarrass myself now.

Once I'm on the carpet, my equilibrium stars to sink back in. Mentally, I'm still in shock that I now have Lucifer as a husband, but I'm no longer too stunned or frightened to speak or move fluidly. I have better control of my emotions now, and I manage to force a warm smile.

In the few heartbeats I have to think, I spot my mother sitting down in her seat, smiling at me and wiping away her power-happy tears. I smile back, a slow, evil, vengeful smile that rears its ugly head less often than Halley's comet circles Earth. She see it, and her face drops. She knows what I know: She's screwed me over in the most putrid way possible, and I'm eventually coming after her for it.

My evil train of though is interrupted by none other than my new, loving husband. Following tradition, he steps forward and scoops me into his arms, turning to carry me down the aisle. I sigh and relax my body, hanging limply in his arms as he makes his way to the doors of the church.

My head hanging over his arm, I watch as our audience stands to follow us out. They're walking on the ceiling to me, all of them upside-down and laughing. From this angle, it looks like they're laughing with frowns and floating above the earth. A bubble of laughter escapes me as well. This whole thing -- the marriage, the contract, the people -- it's absurd. This would be a fantastic comedy sketch if it weren't real.

We exit the church, stepping out into warm sunlight and a cool autumn breeze. At the bottom of the fantastic staircase leading up to the church sits a gilded carriage that would make Cinderella throw a tantrum if it weren't so menacing. It's all black -- the wheels, the straps, the carriage itself. It's trimmed with lush red velvet and has delicate gold filigree detailing around the edges and on the steps.

I perk up a bit, taking in every beautiful detail of this hell-bound limousine of death. It's stunning, but horrifying as well. But as ominous as the carriage is, it's the horses and coachman that really freak me out. The horses are enormous, as black as the carriage they pull. Their eyes are red as blood, and their hooves send a shower of sparks flying when they tap the ground.

The coachman sits motionless stop his platform, his billowing black cloak whipping around him in the soft breeze. His tattered top hat sits perilously on his head, as if it may fall off and disintegrate at any moment. At the sound of our approaching crowd, he turns to look at us as we approach. His face is pale, bloodless and hollowed from centuries of ageing in the pits of fire. Eyes the color of swamp water stare out from deep sockets, piercing and cold. He nods to us, touching the brim if his ragged hat.

I shiver. He's the most horrifying thing I've seen since watching "The Blair Witch project" when I was ten.

Lucifer begins to descend the staircase, thankfully taking care not to jostle me around too much. I appreciate his kindness, but I'm still cautious. He is the Devil, after all. How much can I trust this creature knowing the reputation he has?

"Tarioc!" he calls out with his incredible voice.

The coachman nods again and cracks the slender reins in his hands. The gilded door to the coach swings open, revealing the luxurious fabrics and décor on the inside. It's all dark velvet, rich satin and stained wood. The crimson curtains inside are drawn, making it look even more sinister.

No sense of modesty, I see.

Am I surprised? Not really. My dress is just as ambitious and outspoken as the carriage. Besides, it's Lucifer. What else would I expect than the highest quality and most expensive? Yet another 'fuck you' to the old man upstairs.

We reach the bottom of the steps and head straight for the carriage. I look back and see the rest of our party has declined to follow us. Mom, Richard, Daniel and Marcus wait on the side of the steps, watching us as we leave. Well, Richard and mom are watching. Daniel and Marcus look as if they're about to toss my mother into oncoming traffic.

Everyone else waits at the top of the stairs, waving and calling out stupid, unfunny comments. I'm confused. Shouldn't they be following us for the reception?

"They're not coming with us?" I ask

"Yes, but not yet." His voice is like melted chocolate poured over ripe cherries and covered in fresh caramel. "We'll meet them back home. But first, I believe a reception and food is in order."

Home.

The word echoes in my head. Not the home I grew up in, not the house I played in. My new home. A world of fire, pain and screaming souls that will never quit whining. That's where I'll be living for the rest of eternity. Oh, the joy. I'm so excited to live there I could almost jump out of his arms and run screaming down the street.

Cautiously, Lucifer climbs the step of the carriage, careful to maneuver me so I don't smack my head on the elaborately pained wood. Still, I involuntarily pull my head in. I don't trust him that much just yet. Once inside, he turns to set me down on one of the plush seat cushions. He's still holding me, which means I'm devoid of any balance. I grip his arm for an instant to steady myself, feeling his icy, smooth flesh under my fingers.

I find my equilibrium again and rest my back against the cool wood of the carriage. Lucifer takes his seat across from me and smiles, his bright golden eyes gleaming in the darkened room of our ride. He snaps his fingers and the coachman's reins crack again. The door swings shut, cutting off any contact I have with the outside world.

Tarioc cracks his reins a third time and the coach starts to move. It's smoother than I'd expected it to be, as if we're riding on polished glass. I peer out through a crack in the curtains and watch as our guests start to move toward their own carriages. I hadn't seen the rest of the hellish rides before; they'd been pulled around behind the church, waiting for ours to depart.

I settle back into my seat as we continue on our way. Through the small space of the window, I can see cars passing by us on the small, narrow streets. I wonder if they can even see us in our carriage.

With nerves wracking my body, I stare down at the handful of dead flowers in my hands. My nervous shaking has gone away, but my heart is still pounding. I'm now married to the most deviously infamous character in Christian theology, so I've got plenty to be nervous about.

"That's a lovely dress."

I look up to see him staring at me, a slight smile on his perfect lips. He's crossed one of his legs over the other and balances his elbow on his knee, resting his chin in his palm as he gazes at me. His feet are bare, yet I can see a sticky black slime coating the bottom flesh of his foot. It drips off in small globs, sizzling softly as it lands on the floor of the carriage.

Gross.

I swallow. "Thank you."

His lips twitch. "I'd love to see it unbuttoned."

And we're off.

I pull back an inch, my eyes widening and my cheeks flushing. He's certainly straightforward. No petty compliments or time-consuming flattery. Nope. He's ready to go. I'm horny, and you look sexier than hell. Let's do it now.

I clamp my mouth shut. What do I say to that? Does an appropriate response exist for such a statement?

"Would you allow me such an honor?" His brows rise an inch, expectant.

I'm again rendered speechless. Most of the guys in my life who've wanted to date me usually started slower and waited for me to say I was ready. Lucifer has turned the waiting game on its head and stepped up to the plate in a way only he could. I'm out of my element here.

"I-I don't know." My heart wants to break out my chest and bolt out of the carriage.

He smiles and closes his eyes. "My dear Michelle, you have no idea what you've been tossed into, do you?"

I shake my head. "Not really. I know who you are and what happened between you and mom, but I'm not sure how this whole thing works."

"I see." His smile widens. "Then allow me to explain. I have been alive for far longer than you could ever imagine. Before the world was created, before humans were walking around. I lived with my father and the rest of the angels in what you would call Heaven."

I nod and stare at him, enraptured by his voice.

"Unfortunately, dad and I didn't get along too well. He said you were perfect, incredible, better." His eye twitches. "He and I had a disagreement and I was kicked out of the house and put in charge of running the septic systems you call Hell."

I nod again, still speechless. I figure it's safer to let him have his say than to interrupt.

"And over these many millennia, I've grown lonely. I have no one to talk to or play with or fuck endlessly. I've been rejected by a horde of young beauties all because I am who your preachers say I am."

I shrink back in my seat, afraid he'll explode.

"But then," he smiles again, "your mother comes along and grants me the opportunity to have a partner in this world of mine. True, she never did pay her half of the bargain, but that will be cleared up soon enough. What I'm excited about is you, my new queen."

He stands, taking slow, paced steps toward me.

"You. My young, beautiful, virile new queen. The person who will keep my bed warm at night and give me something to play with." He stops just inches away from me, and I crane my neck to stare at him. "Stand."

I'm frozen for an instant before I can get my gears moving again. Shakily, I manage to haul myself to my feet and stare into his eyes. He still towers over me, and I suddenly feel like a tiny speck of dust in the wind. God, he's gorgeous.

He smiles wider and twirls his finger. "Spin."

I nod and turn around, relieved to not have to face his eyes for a few brief seconds. His cool fingers brush against the skin of my back, making me jump. They slide up the length of my spine, chilling my flesh and making me shiver inside myself.

"You have flawless skin, Michelle." His fingers find the buttons at the neck of my dress. "I'd love to see the rest of it."

Slowly, carefully, he undoes each of the small buttons, pulling them apart and letting the dress slide down my body. I'm trembling now, my breath barely audible in the silent carriage. I don't want him to do this, to get so close to me and touch me so intimately. But I don't dare think of what would happen if I pulled away.

He unhooks the final button and the front of my dress falls away. I fight the urge to cover my chest with my hands, still terrified that any wrong move with piss him off. I'm suddenly cold, and I look down to see my body reacting to the sudden cold. My breasts, the same soft tan as the rest of me, are dotted with goosebumps and are flushed red. My nipples have tightened almost painfully.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01



"Spin."

I turn quickly, aiming my eye s down to the floor. I can't look at him while I'm standing here half naked.

Smiling at me, he sighs quietly. "Oh, Michelle. How lovely you are."

He traces my collarbone with one long finger, making me shiver.

"And so responsive." He grins.

His icy hands move down to my breasts. He cups them in his palms, making my breath hitch. I don't want to feel it, but tiny sparks of pleasure radiate out from my nipples when he pressed his thumbs against them. I understand why he's call the great Tempter and the Wicked One. He's definitely tempting and extremely dark. I have to hold my breath for a moment to regain my senses.

I stare at his hands, watching as he rolls and molds my breasts with his icy fingers. As big as his hands are, they're not quite able to fully contain my chest. It's the one thing my mother's blessed me with. They're not ridiculously huge, but enough to make me the center of attention with guys when I got out with friends. They're the center of my self-esteem, and I take pride in making sure they look damn good.

I watch his smile widen as he explores my body. "So warm and soft. For a human, you're impressive."

I bite my lip, fighting a growing ache in my belly that begs me to throw my arms around his neck and kiss him again.

His eyes meet mine again, shining with wicked delight. "I have something for you."

Oh, shit.

He reaches into the back pocket of his jeans, still grinning at me. He pulls his hand out, holding his fist palm up. Every scenario is running though my mind of what he has in his hand: a whip, a snake, a spider, a swarm of bees. I'm terrified to find out what he's got, but too curious to look away.

His palm opens, revealing not a swarm of hornets but a necklace. The chain is slender and as black as his wings. Small carved gems of red, black and cobalt extend downward, gradually growing in size until they reach the center. There, a breathtaking ruby, exquisitely carved in the image of a peacock, shines in the sunlight. It's incredible.

Oh. Oh, my God.

"It's lovely," I whisper. I'm lying; it's beyond beautiful.

His smile widens another inch. "Spin," he commands again.

I turn quickly, still mesmerized by that superb piece of jewelry. I watch as he brings the necklace around to my throat. The ruby hangs just about my cleavage, the smaller jewels glinting in the light. The metal is cool against my skin as he fastens it behinds my neck.

"One of the crown jewels of my kingdom," he whispers into my ear.

I raise my hand to my neck, racing the carving with my fingers. "Where did you get this?"

"Payment owed to me by Louis XVI. He wanted that little Austrian girl to solidify his status as king. There. Let me see."

I turn again, facing him head-on. Strangely, with this necklace, I feel strong and proud. I feel respected, loved and cherished. I feel safe, warm and admired. I'm beginning to feel like a queen.

He smiles again. "It's perfect."

He leans in and kisses me a second time, and for a second time, I feel out of control and overwhelmed. I fight the urge to throw him onto the seat and straddle him. Taking a deep breath, I let the kiss go on, allowing myself to enjoy the intimacy we now share. I know for him, using this much restraint must be torture.

He pulls away and smiles, brushing my cheek with his fingers. "Never take that off."

I shake my head staring into to his impossible eyes.

No. Never. I promise.

I hear the screeching of car tires, the shattering of glass and the crunching of metal. The racket startles me out of his hypnotic trance and I peer through the curtains to see what happened. There's a six-car pileup just outside our carriage, with nearly every car totaled. The drivers of the cars stand in the street, staring wide-eyes and fearful as they watch our carriage pass by.

So they can see us.

He reaches down to grip the front pieces of my dress, never even flinching at the commotion outside. I'm not surprised that he doesn't seem to notice. Destruction and chaos must follow him wherever he goes.

He lifts the front pieces of my dress, reaching around my neck to put me back together.

"I'd love to keep this open, believe me," he smiles, "But I don't think that would be appropriate for the reception."

I nod. Even with me now being married to Lucifer, my mother would have a fit if I came out half-naked. For someone who's willing to sell off her own daughter to the Devil himself, she's surprisingly prudish.

He finishes buttoning my dress, adjusting it so it lays flat against my skin. The blood-red gleam of the ruby sits right in the middle of the front slit, shining through the sea of whit and black like a beacon. A beacon of doom, I suppose.

Still smiling at me, he retreats to the other side of the carriage, falling back onto the soft cushions of the seats. I stare at him, unsure of what he's planning. I twist and untwist my fingers nervously, waiting for his next move.

He crooks his finger at me, calling me forward. I hesitate, trying to figure out what he's thinking. He pats his thigh, motioning for me to sit. I nod and step towards him, my heart racing again. I can't begin to imagine what he wants: my poor mind can't get that dark.

I finally reach him, staring into his warm, bright eyes. He pats his thigh again, his smile never wavering. Swallowing, I gather the hem of my dress and turn so I sit in his lap. I feel like I'm five again and waiting for my father to tell me another one of his fantastic stories. Only, it's not my father I'm staring at.

He reaches up with one cold hand, his thumb tracing the curve of my bottom lip. I watch his eyes light up as an idea comes to his mind, making my guts twist. Oh, no. this is going to be bad.

"You have a beautiful mouth, Michelle," he purrs.

I inhale sharply. Something inside me stirs, knowing exactly where this conversation is going.

"I'd love to see it go to work." His smile widens, the spark in his eyes now a full blown bonfire.

Oh no. Oh no, oh no, oh no...

He traces the carved ruby of my necklace. "I've given you a lovely present, no? I think it's only fair that I get something in return for my generosity."

Fuck.

My heart drops and my stomach completes a triple axel. Nothing about Lucifer comes without a catch. I know what he wants. What sane man would turn down a free blowjob? And if that man was Lucifer? Double fuck. I sigh inside myself, convinced yet again that it's better to go with the flow than fight him.

"What do you think, Michelle?" he asks, mocking me.

I sulk for a minute, cursing my mother once again. Damn her for setting me up like this. No doubt she knew he'd milk my insecurities for all they're worth, yet she never warned me about how depraved he could get. I swear, once we get to the reception I'm going to dunk her head in the punch bowl.

"I suppose it's a good thing I had a few boyfriends in high school," I mutter.

I blush and stare at the ground. What possessed me to say that?

His brows rise and inch. "So you've had experience, then?"

Nice move, genius. You've screwed yourself now.

"And how experienced are you?" He leans forward a bit, staring at me with interest. What's this? I've caught his curiosity.

I shrug, still mortified by my mindless confession. "Not too much. I'm no porn star, but I've...practiced."

Stop! Stop!

His eyes are on fire now. "Have you? Care to demonstrate?"

I stare at him, horrified, then sigh. I dismiss the idea of saying no, standing up and leaping out of the carriage. I'd love to toss myself out the window, duck and roll down the street, then take off running for home.

As if I'd even get that far.

I chew my lip for a moment, considering my options. I'm fairly talented when it comes to sucking men, and Lucifer is someone who loves to make deals. I could use this to my advantage if I play it right.

"Would it mean I get a few hours of reprieve?" God, I hope this works.

He cocks his head to one side, pursing his lips slightly. "Meaning what?"

"Well..." I start off easy, hoping I don't piss him off. "Say I'm not quite ready to consummate our...marriage. If I sucked you off, could I get a few hours to myself so I can adjust?"

He closes his eyes and laughs to himself, shaking his head. "Using sex to bargain with me. You're clever to try, I'll give you that." He opens his eyes again, smiling at me. "If that's what it takes, then yes. Prove to me you're as good as you say you are and I'll give you the night off."

My heart leaps for an instant, then my cautiousness kicks in. He is the master of lies and deals, after all. He could just be saying that to get me to blow him.

I narrow my eyes at him. "How do I know you're not luring to me?"

He scoffs, placing his hand across his chest. "Ye of little faith in me!"

Damn straight. I know better.

He shakes his head again. "Michelle, I have no reason to lie to you. You're my wife now. If I wanted to, legally I could just toss you over this bench now and fuck you like a madman. But I don't. I know that going from an innocent college girl to a queen isn't an easy task to achieve."

I nod. How true that is. Giving up my family and friends will be something I'll have to adjust to. I'll never sleep in my own bed again, or have my favorite books with me. That said, at least I'll get to skip my exams and have some freedom from my mother. Okay, so maybe not everything about this will be bad.

"Believe me, I'll give you sufficient time to adjust to your new life with me. But if having our first night off will make things easier for you, then fine." His smile is softer, more sincere than hungry.

A manage to force a smile. "Thanks."

"So we have a deal, then?" He strokes my fingers.

I nod. Indeed we do.

"Good."

He shifts in his seat, forcing me out of his lap. Reaching down, her grips the zipper of his jeans and starts to pull it down.

Why waste any time? We have valuable bj's to give.

As he unbuttons his pants, I try to think of the best way to do this. I'm still fully dressed in a gown that could easily get torn or destroyed if I move the wrong way. I reach down and gather the skirts of my dress and settle awkwardly down to my knees. The carpet under me is soft and lush, made of the same rich velvet as the carpet in the church. No expense was left out for this affair.

He finishes undoing his pants and smiles down at me. "Ready?"

Do I have a choice?

"It's quite a prize you're going to swallow."

Oh boy.

I nod regardless. I have a night to myself riding on my performance.

Ne nods back at me and opens the fly of his pants. Commando, I should have known. His erection springs forth in an instant, tall and proud and ready to go. It's thicker than I'm used to, and points straight to the sky. The flesh is a pale golden tan with thick veins criss-crossing up and down the length. I notice that the veins are black, not blue, which means even his blood isn't normal.

Despite the intimidating thickness and the odd colored veins, it's a stunning piece of anatomy. Michelangelo should have carved his man David with this instead.

"Come on, Michelle," he croons. "You said you were experienced. Prove it."

Oh, a challenge, is it? I scowl slightly in annoyance. He wants me to prove myself. Unfortunately, that's brought my competitive spirit roaring to the surface. Usually, I don't get cutthroat unless it's a dire situation where I have to defend myself or beat mom at a board game. But giving blowjobs is an arena I've fought in before, and I tend to come out the victor. He wants mind-blowing? Then I'll give him mind-blowing.

I suck in one last rational breath before plunging into the masterpiece that is, regrettably, Lucifer. I reach out and caress it lightly, running my fingers over the smooth flesh. It's as cold as the rest of his body, but sturdy as steel. I grip him gently and stroke his length, getting a feel for the task I'm about to take on. My hand barely fits around his girth, and I briefly wonder if I'll even be able to take him.

Yes, you can. Show him what you've got.

My mental pep rally has me fired up. Keeping my hand on him so I can aim better, I lean forward and force his cock into my mouth. I've decided to skip foreplay; I want to prove to him that I'm good enough to bring him to his knees. I swallow him, forcing him as far back as I can. He tastes of honey and cinnamon and campfire smoke and thousand other flavors.

"Holy fuck!"

His temporary loss of control excites me. I've already shocked him a bit. If I can score a perfect ten on this, I'm home free.

I keep my grip on him to hold him still. The last thing I need is to have him flying around when I'm trying to score a bit of freedom.

I start slow, moving up and down at an easy, languorous pace that will relax him. I need him comfortable if I'm going to win this fight. It works, and his hips slide forward as he settles into his seat. I keep up the gentle tempo, wanting to make sure he's well settled before I take him for a spin.

He groans, and his hands reach down to caress my hair. He pulls out a few of my hair pins, letting a handful of strands tumble down to my shoulders. He laces his fingers in my now loosened hair, giving him something to hold onto as I suck him off.

Good. Let's take him for a ride.

I reach down with my free hand and start stroking his balls through the soft denim of his jeans. His body jerks at the contact, and I smile inside knowing I can make him twitch.

Atta girl! Teach him to challenge you!

I pick up the pace a bit, wrenching another groan from his throat. I cup his balls in my hand, molding and rubbing them through his jeans. What's wrong with him? This is way too easy. He's acting like he's never had a blowjob before. I feel like I'm being tested, as if this is just the preliminary round so he can see how much training I need.

The thought annoys me. I don't like being quizzed on a moment's notice. It makes my uncomfortable and irritated. Still, a small part of me wants to know I've got the skill to please the Devil himself, so I keep up the pace and rise to the challenge.

Taking a tiny risk, I gently scrape my teeth along his cock as I pull up. He inhales sharply, and his fingers twist almost painfully in my hair. I keep the pace, wanting to hear him lose control. It's payback time for his little games, and I'm going after everything he's got.

He barks out a laugh. "I apologize for ever doubting you." He strokes my hair. "You can stop now."

Oh no, darling. You're mine, now.

I quicken my pace again, pulling back so I suck on the hard tip. He groans again and twists his fingers into my hair. He tries to pull me off, much to my utter shock, but I give his balls a quick, hard squeeze and he releases me.

"Michelle, stop!" he begs.

Lucifer? Begging me? To stop? What kind of messed-up Twilight Zone did I fall into?

I disregard his plea and continue on towards my goal. He's not going to stop me from winning this. Regrettably, this challenge is also allowing me to blow off a little steam. I'm still pissed at my mother for tossing me into this mess, and taking it out on Lucifer's cock seems the least damaging way to get back at her. For now, he's taken my mother's place as I deal out my punishment.

"I said stop!" He digs his fingers into my scalp. "You've earned your freedom for the night. I don't want to come until I've got you splayed out in my bed."

Oh. That's why he wants me to stop?

I regain my control and pull myself free of his grip. I let his balls go and sit back on the floor. A small, mischievous smile adorns my face. I've proved my point and beaten him at his little challenge. Game, set, match.

I look up to see my husband laid out on the seat of the coach. The lower half of his body hangs completely off the cushion, and for a moment I'm afraid he'll fall. His chest rises and falls rapidly; his eyes are closed and his lips parted as he sucks in quick breaths.

After a brief silence, he manages to catch himself. He starts to laugh again, throwing his head back as he fastens his pants.

"Oh! My Michelle!" he barks out a sharp laugh. "If I've ever made a mistake in this deal, it was doubting you." He reaches out and strokes my cheek with his fingers as he smiles at me with those gorgeous eyes. "You did very well."

I lift my chin an inch and smile proudly. I've just give Satan himself one of the best blowjobs of his immortal life. I mentally pat myself on the back. I've proved myself tonight.

His smile falters a bit. "Oh, dear. I've ruined your hair, haven't I?"

I look down to notice thick locks of my hair curling down around my breasts. He's pulled out a good number of my hair pins, and now my elegant up-do is falling apart.

He sits up and sighs. "Well, we certainly can't have that. They'll know we were up to something."

He beckons me to stand. I follow orders, still a bit giddy that I've pleased him. Michelle Rebecca Harlowe: The Tamer of Lucifer's Libido. Yes, that's a perfect moniker for me. I'll request for that to be carved on my gravestone so people can know just how awesome I was tonight.

He stands to face me, picking up a lock of my hair and twisting it through his fingers. "How will we remedy this?"

I shrug. "To be honest, I actually prefer it down."

He pauses for a moment, considering my suggestion. He moves suddenly, slowly pulling out each hair pin that's been jammed into my scalp. More chunks of my hair tumble down, until he removes the last pin and there's nothing adorning my head. He takes a step back, cocking his head to the side as he inspects me.

A soft smile plays on his lips. "Yes, I like that."

I smile back. I've played his game well and came out alive and on top. Not bad for a nineteen-year-old human girl. I'd say I deserved a trophy.

I suppose being a trophy wife will have to do.

"Sire!" Tarioc's voice deep resounds through the carriage, startling me. "We're almost there."

Lucifer nods. He smiles at me again, adjusting my hair so that I look as acceptable as possible.

"We wouldn't want your mother finding out, would we?" He winks.

I mull the though around in my head. Would I really care if mom found out? After all this, not really. At the moment, I'm too proud of myself to give a damn about what she thinks. She can't keep her end of the bargain, but I can make Lucifer beg.  

Take that, mother.

The carriage slowly grinds to a halt as we pull up to the magical place Lucifer has picked for our reception. My mind flits between hoping for a bright, sunny field filled with flowers, and knowing he's probably picked something much darker and less cheerful. Out of caution, I prepare myself toe the worst case scenario.

I can hear the sounds of numerous hoof beats outside as the rest of our party closes in behind us. Lucifer steps toward the door, beckoning me to follow. The door opens and I watch as Tarioc steps aside as he waits for us to exit. Lucifer steps down first, the turns to me and holds out his hand so I have some balance. I step carefully down out of the carriage and into the warm sunlight.

The reception area that's been chosen is a mixture of both my worst fears and a lovely setting. The graveyard is enormous, with lush, grass knolls of the countryside spreading out for miles. The headstones themselves are made of carved white marble and free of vines or weeds. Someone cares for this place.

There's a long table set out on one of the grassy mounds. It's covered in rich, dark cloth and has every kind of food imaginable laid out on its surface. There are dozens of large shady trees to sit under, and for some reason a bevy of songbirds has come out to serenade us.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01



It's lovely here. Still, my gut turns slightly. We'll be eating and dancing on top of dead people. How macabre.

The reception whizzes by, and I lose track of time momentarily. I don't really remember much, just the sights of people playing games, and the sounds of champagne popping and laughter. Oh, and me having to resist the urge to drown my mother in the punch bowl. I'm slightly relieved that Lucifer stayed by my side the entire time and gave me something else to focus on.

I do experience a slight piece of revenge on my mother, but it comes from an unlikely source. Mom and Leyna are engaged in a conversation about who knows what. They're laughing and smiling, making sly jokes at the expense of those around them. Suddenly, Leyna's lovely face changes from jovial to enraged. Mo mother must have said something to piss her off, a common occurrence with my mom. Leyna stands, tosses her drink in my mother's face, and storms off. My mother is left sitting in her chair, covered in spiked punch and looking traumatized.

I smile. It's not much of a comeback for what I've been through, but it's enough to carry me through the rest of the day.

In the moments before sunset, Lucifer and I bid goodbye to our guests. He ushers me gently towards the carriage, and I can see the excitement and anticipation in his eyes. He may not get to sleep with me tonight, but he's got his queen on his arm. I'm sure in his eyes it's a major accomplishment; having a queen is more than his father can say.

I manage to escape his hold and run back into the crowd. For the last time, I embrace Richard, Daniel and Marcus. I tell them how much I love them, say how much I'll miss them, promise I'll find a way to visit. My mother steps forward and throws her arms wide, waiting for her hug. I sigh and embrace her begrudgingly. She is my mother, after all, and I still love her. I just hate what she's done to me.

My goodbyes complete, I race back to the carriage. Lucifer leans against the carriage, staring passively at me. I'm glad he's not upset that I ran off like that. Not a good idea to start our weeding night off on a bad foot because I said goodbye to my family.

We climb into the carriage and Tarioc takes off again. I stare out the window, slightly more at ease with what's happened. True, I'm not particularly happy about being married to Lucifer against my will, but I've resolved to make the best of it. I still avoid his hypnotic gaze and stare out the window. The sun is setting, painting the sky in vibrant shades of burgundy, tangerine and violet. Set against a backdrop of marble gravestones, it's quite a sight.

Tarioc snaps the reins and our carriage takes a sharp left. The ground seems to slope downward now, and we're gradually gaining speed. I look out the window to see nothing but darkness. The horses' hoof beats echo in the surrounding blackness, and I suddenly feel claustrophobic.

I look at Lucifer. He's reclining in his seat, his head tossed back with his eyes closed and his hands folded behind his neck. He looks so relaxed. I'll bet I look terrified.

"Where are we going?" I try to keep the fear out of my voice.

He never opens his eyes. "Home. Don't worry. We'll be there soon."

"But we're going down!" I barely keep myself from screaming in terror. The darkness is starting to turn me into a five-year-old.

Finally, he cracks one golden eyes open. "Michelle, where is Hell according to your Bible?"

Oh, of course. Hell is the Underworld, below Heaven and earth. I want to bury my face in my hands out of embarrassment. I sit back in my seat and turn my head away, avoiding his gaze and wallowing in my stupidity.

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice small flashes of light pass by the window. I peer at them, trying to get a better look. Small bits of flame, no doubt breaking off of the now flaming wheel of our carriage, whip by as we descend deeper and deeper into the earth. I watch them as we continue on, secretly hoping Lucifer has closed his eye again and is no longer watching me.

Moments later, the carriage levels out, the sound of hooves nowhere near as frantic as before. We're slowing down, which must mean we're nearly in Lucifer's

domain. I swallow loudly as I start to shake again. We're finally home now, and I'm nervous about how I'll be received. There must be millions of demons waiting to greet Lucifer and his new bride. I just hope they don't eat me.

The horses come to a halt, which means we're finally here. My heart is pounding out of my chest. I'm trembling at the thought of being welcomed by a mass of demons. The chilly reception I got from Leyna was enough to make me assume the worst. Still, I intend to do my best, so I stand and smooth my dress, hoping to make a good first impression.

Showtime, Michelle.

Again, Lucifer rises and heads for the door, opening it and standing outside waiting for me. I grip his hand for balance and exit the carriage, stepping into a world more wondrous that I've ever imagined.

I'm standing in an enormous caver of a hallway that stretches on for miles. The walls and floor are inlaid with black marble slabs. Granite statues of fornicating humans and demons line the length of the hallway. Elaborately carved metal sconces are imbedded in the marble, cupping soft white flames that cast beautifully curved shadows along the floor. There are enormous cutouts the run along the length of the wall, each bathing the cold floor in the soft orange light that glows beneath the window..

Above me, an arched ceiling is filled with stained glass panels. Soft streams of cobalt, crimson, emerald and gold trickle through, coloring the dark marble. It must be sunlight pouring through those hunks of colored glass. I'm not surprised. This is Hell, and Lucifer can make it any way he likes.

Damn.

Who knew Hell could be so gorgeous?

I stare up at the ceiling in wonder. "This is nothing like what the bishops said it would be."

He laughs, a beautiful sound that drowns my sense of reason for an instant. "Ah, you're thinking of the pits of fire and ice that hold the damned. Those are below us. You needn't worry about that area. You won't be going down there until you're ready. Come."

He begins to walk down the hallway. I scurry after him, still distracted by the absolute beauty of this place. If the preachers knew this was the part of Hell where Lucifer lived, they'd throw a fit.

"Why so lavish?" I admire the craftsmanship of the statues.

"Why not. If I'm going to live and work with the lowest filth of the human race, I might as well make my home as comfortable as possible."

"Was Heaven anything like this when you were still up there?" I ask without thinking. I suddenly wish I could take the words back. Reminding him of his old home was an awful idea.

A sly smirk crosses his lips. "Not even close."

I drop my head, mortified and hoping I haven't pissed him off. We continue down the hall in silence; the absence of noise allows me to understand what he meant by the pits being below us. I can hear the screams of tortured souls as they're ripped apart and crushed under the weight of their sins. But the sounds come from outside the windows, emanating up from the soft orange glow.

I shiver and rush forward to keep pace with him. I stand beside him, putting him between me and the open windows. If a wayward demon accidentally shoves me, he's going to be my barrier between those pits.

The hall is empty besides us, which means I'm not going to be shown off tonight, more likely, Lucifer is waiting until tomorrow to introduce me to his followers. I'm slightly relieved. That will give me time to either adjust to this wondrous place or completely lose my mind.

We stop in front of an enormous door imbedded into the marble slabs. It's solid oak and stained so dark it looks black. It's expertly carved with effigies of human souls wrapped in fire with elated demons dancing above them. Horrifying, but such lovely handiwork.

Lucifer steps up and opens the door. Inside, a vast room decked out in gleaming white marble, lush fabrics and a hoard of female demons awaits me. He motions for me to enter, a move I counter with a confused look.

He smiles at me. "It's our wedding night, Michelle. And while you've earned a reprieve from consummating our union, I can't have you coming to bed in your wedding dress, as lovely as it may be." He motions to the group of demons inside the room. "They're your assistants. They'll prep you, set out your clothing, and anything else you may need."

Oh. I have hired help. How upper-crust.

"And I need them now because..." I eye him cautiously, trying to imagine what he's thinking.

He grins. "I've given them instructions for how I want you. They'll have you ready for me."

I glance at the girls, then back at my husband. "You do remember giving me the night off, correct?"

His smile never falls. "Doesn't mean I can't enjoy the view. In you go."

I sigh and nod, turning towards the open door. I just barely make my way inside when he moves to close the door behind me. Just before he does, his smiles through the small crack between the door and the wall.

"I'll see you in a moment my dear."

He closes the door behind me, cutting me off from everyone and everything but my new maids. There's ten of them standing in front of me, each a striking beauty that makes me feel incredibly insecure. They're dressed in an array of clothing styles: some wear dresses, other in jeans and shirts and others in what looks like leftovers from a cutting room floor. I certainly have an interesting menagerie to work with.

They start immediately, rushing forward and beginning their duty of turning me into a queen for the night. They undo my dress and help me out of it. My heels are removed, my hair is brushed and makeup wiped away. While they clean me up, I take the time to look around my dressing room.

It's solid slabs of pure white marble from floor to ceiling. The ceiling itself is made of carved wood effigies pieced together like an enormous puzzle. There are marble columns reaching up to the ceiling, with black marble vines twisting up to meld with the dark wood at the top. The décor is sparse, but it's all carved stained wood and polished mirrors. There's no bed in this room, so my nights will be spent with Lucifer's bed, not here.

One of the girls reaches out for my necklace. I know she's just doing what she's been told -- undress the queen and clean her up -- but my hand flies to my throat. I shake my head. I promised Lucifer I wouldn't take it off, and I don't want to get in trouble because a naive demon wants to follow orders.

She nods and pulls her hand back, giving me an apologetic look. She rushes over to a rack of clothing hidden behind an enormous dresser and wheels it out so my outfit can be chosen. Two more demons join her and start scanning through the rack, nodding and shaking their heads at different pieces of clothing. The rest of the girls finish undressing me. I'm stripped completely naked and stand awkwardly as I wait for my newest outfit.

After several minutes, the group of girls nod together and make their way back to me, carrying heaps of clothing in their arms. Another maid drags a long fabric-covered bench over to where I'm standing. She helps my designers spread out the clothing on the bench, allowing me to take along at my choices.

It's all skimpy lingerie. Corsets, garters, stockings, thongs, the works. There's at least ten choice of each item, all in different colors and designs. Two more girls come rushing out carrying armfuls of shoes. They set them out on the floor, lining them up along the edge of the bench. Stilettos, I should have known.

Shit. So I am going to be paraded around tonight.

I sigh and cross my arms over my chest. Well, this is certainly unexpected, isn't it? Lucifer wanting his new little bride dressed up like an expensive escort even though he's not getting any ass tonight. I have the urge to dress in every piece of clothing available just to piss him off, but I reject the thought. Instead, I jump at the chance to feel sexy and scan through the scraps of cloth laid out fro me.

I reject anything yellow, green or white, along with any shoes I don't feel are a safe height to fall from. I'm left with three sets of lingerie to pick from. I scan the again and settle on a satin burgundy corset with black lace panels on the side, matching thong, sheer black thigh-highs and red patent leather heels. If I'm going to be with Lucifer, I might as well be dressed hot enough to set fire to everything.

The girls lace me into the corset and help me keep my balance as I step into my shoes. Two more start painting my face and fixing my hair. I'm sure by the end of this I'll look enticing enough to put the whores of Babylon to shame.

"He likes it down," I tell the girls working on my hair. The stop and nod at me, removing the pins and adornments they've started to shove in my scalp.

Five minutes later, I'm ready for show and tell. The girls all smile and step back, admiring their work. I wither look absolutely fabulous or horrifyingly awful. One of them rushes off, returning with a large free-standing mirror covered with gold filigree. She drags it in front of me so I can see how I look.

I'm stunned. The shoes make me five inches taller, and the stockings I've picked are just sheer enough to tease the eyes. My legs look fantastic here. The corset shows off my waist and shoves my breasts up to my chin. My hair is pulled away from my face and held in place by a single jewel-encrusted hair in. The makeup is minimal but striking: red lips, barely flushed cheeks and smoky eyes. The girls have done their job.

Bravo, girls. You've made me look like a Wall Street hooker.

Before I can take a breath, the girls begin to usher me to the door.

Oh, we're going now?

The answer is yes as they rush me out of the room. I'm lead down the hallway, surrounded by a gaggle of laughing demon girls. I'm still clad in nothing but my lingerie and I suddenly feel self-conscious. I cross my arms over my chest and stare at the ground as we walk. Heaven forbid any stray demon walks into the hallway and sees me. I think I'd race back into the dressing room and Lucifer would have to come collect me from the closet.

We stop at the end of the hallway, coming to another enormous door. This one is solid oak like the last one, only its carvings are of huge bonfires and dancing pagans. It's far more intimidating than the door of my dressing room. The girls all gather behind me and gently shove me towards the door.

This must be where Lucifer and I are to sleep together. It's certainly dark enough. I take a deep breath and take a reluctant step towards the door. I turn back and thank my girls. They smile happily at me, then scatter into the hallway, leaving me alone.

Well, they're certainly supportive, aren't they?

I gather my strength and raise my fist to the door. This is what I have to do. Now that I'm in Hell, running away won't do me any good, especially not in these heels. Besides, where am I going to run to? Lucifer can find me anywhere. I shake my head, cursing my fate and knock on the door.

"Yes?" Lucifer's deep voice booms through the door. He sounds annoyed, like he doesn't want to be bothered.

Fine, then.

"You want to let me in or not?" I snap.

The door swings wide open. I smile to myself. He may not be getting anything tonight, by the threat of not having his virile new bride in his bed is enough to wake him up. I straighten my spine and step through the archway, listening as the door slams behind me.

Dark grey marble, strewn with thick veins of blue and white, is the central theme here. Again, more enormous columns stretch from floor to ceiling, with clusters of small carved coral flames licking their way to the top.

Our marriage bed is the central masterpiece of the room. Rich dark wood has been molded into a beautifully sculpted headboard. Spires of oak reach up from the four corners of the bed, cradling a mass of sheer black and cobalt fabric that spills halfway down the bed frame. The thick sheets are pure white and embroidered with rich crimson scrollwork on the edges.

It's going to take me a while to get used to all this luxury.

Lucifer stands beside the bed, leaning against one of the thick posts. He's naked, allowing me to see every rippling muscle and sinew in his perfect body. His brows are raised a slight smile plays on his lips. Oh, yes. I look like a perfect little escort, don't I? I hope he like the view, because he's not getting any of this just yet.

"You look stunning," he purrs. His voice is low, and I can almost feel the lust radiating off him.

I square my shoulders and smile back. "Thank you. Your girls are very proficient."

"Aren't they?" He strides towards me, his smile growing another inch with every step. His walk has a natural, perfect swagger to it that most wannabe rappers would sell their souls to have. "Although, I do believe you're far too overdressed."

I swallow, suddenly concerned that he's backing out of our deal. "You promised me the night off."

He nods. "I did. But I still want you naked."

I step back, my hands flying to my hips and a scowl plastered on my face. "And if I refuse? Maybe I like this outfit."

He stops in his tracks, his eyes wide with a mix of shock and outrage. "You're going to challenge me on this?"

I shrug, calling forth every ounce of strength I have. "Maybe. Depends on how bossy you're going to be tonight."

He scowls at me and my gut twists. Oh, boy. Now I've set him off. And while my mind is begging me to apologize and strip naked, my ego won't let me. I stand my ground, determined to prove my point, even if it means bodily harm.

He closes his eyes and sighs. "I was hoping you'd be more agreeable than this."

I shrug again. "You take my mother for a ride, steal my life as collateral and force me into a corset for your entertainment. You expect me to call you 'master' as well?"

His eyes narrow at me. He lifts one hand, points his finger at me and swipes his hand through the air.

My eyes nearly pop out of my head. Try as I may, my lips are sealed shut. My vocal cords are frozen, so I can't even squeak out my shock. I can't talk! No...I can't argue.

He smiles again and continues striding towards me. "Your mother warned that you had a mouth on you. The fantastic blowjob aside, she was correct."

Damn it, mom.

He steps around behind me and leans forward. I can feel his chest against my shoulders, his nose in my hair.

"Now, let's get you out of this lovely corset."

He taps my shoulder and a chill roars through me. I try to turn around, but I'm stuck. Panicked, I try to move my arm, my foot anything. He's frozen my body as well, a precaution, no doubt, in case I try to break free. Damn him.

I feel his cool fingers as they work at the ribbon laces of my corset. He flies through them, and my top falls to the floor within seconds, leaving me completely exposed.

"Still wearing your necklace?" His fingers caress my collarbone. "Good girl. So you're not completely insubordinate."

He moves around to my front and drops to his knees. He starts working at my stockings, pulling them off my legs. At the touch of his hand my legs unfreeze, though I'm only allowed to move as much as he allows me. My stockings gone, the pulls my thong down as well, tossing it aside as he stands.

I'm naked now, and feeling more exposed that I've ever felt in my life. A deep blush works up to my cheeks, though I manage to hold my expression still. He stares at me for a moment, taking in every curve I own. A new smile breaks onto his face.

"You're very nice, Michelle. Very nice. Now, let's go to bed."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01



He steps forward, puts one hand behind my back and scoops my up in his arms. Much like when he carried me out of the church, I'm limp in his arms. But this time it's not from exhaustion or hopelessness. I'm unable to move or talk, so I can't do much more than lay here and wait.

Gently, he deposits me on the bed, flipping the sheets back to slide me under and rolling me onto my side. He follows, pressing the entire length of his body against mine. His cold skin makes me shiver, though the warm blankets help ease the chill a bit.

He loops his arms around me, pulling me close and molding my body to his. He nuzzles my neck, making me shiver again.

"I take it you don't want to play?" His voice is soft, but I can hear the lust and need coursing through it.

He kisses my shoulder and I'm free again. I open my mouth to take a deep breath, stretching involuntarily as I regain control of my body. He tightens his grip on my body. Free as I am, he's not letting me go anywhere.

I shake my head. "No." I'm not in the mood to play.

His hands slide up my torso, cupping my breast in his hands again. "Not even a little?"

He squeezes and massages my breasts in his palms. A tiny spark of lust, no bigger than a grain of sand, stirs in my belly. I force it down. No matter how good this feels, no matter how much I may hate to admit that I want him, I'm in no mood for games. The tricks he's pulled have cost him his chance at another blowjob for the next three days.

"No." I shift slightly, trying to put a little distance between us. I bury my face in one of the many soft pillows and close my eyes, cutting him off.

He groans and reluctantly moves his hands back down to my waist. "Fine."

"Thank you." I settle into my new bed, allowing the warmth and softness to coax me into relaxation.

I feel Lucifer's hands leave my body as he rolls over. He silent for a moment, then I hear him let out a litany of soft moans. He's masturbating, no doubt about the missed opportunity with me. At this point, I don't care. He can jerk off all her wants. Right now, I'm exhausted.

I close my eyes and exhale loudly. I feel my body sinking into the soft sheets, hear my heartbeat subtly growing slower. The sounds of Lucifer's moaning become muffle and the world falls away as I drift into sleep.

* * *

I dream that night. It's a strange dream, even by my standards. I'm walking down a cavernous hallway lit only by candlelight. The walls are made from huge slabs of dark marble and lined with endless doors on either side. There's no one else in the hallway, just me. An icy wind whips around the corridor, chilling my skin as I walk. I rub my arms to warm myself, but it doesn't do much.

I continue walking, scanning for any sign of life or company. The hall remains empty, and my gut twists with dread. I like having my own space, but I hate being completely alone like this. I peer down the hallway as I walk, hoping to see someone, anyone, while I'm down here. I'd even be happy if I saw my husband. At least then I'd know I'm not completely alone.

I'm too cold to continue, so I dart into one of the many open doors that line the hallway, hoping to find some relief from the chill outside. I slip between the small space of the door -- an enormous piece of wood carved with effigies of humans and demons -- and close it behind me. Finally, a little relief from that damned wind.

I turn around and hold my breath. The room I've picked I filled with mirrors. They line each of the four walls, stretching from the marble floor to the carved ceiling. Small flickering candles offer some light, but not enough to see exactly where I am.

Regaining my balance, I decide to explore. What harm could a room full of mirrors pose besides being nothing more than an illusion and actually lined with spikes? Nothing that I'd be surprised by. This is Hell after all. There's danger everywhere here.

I walk along the cool floor, taking cautious steps as I go. The floor has been polished to a mirror's surface as well, and I can't see any cracks or impurities in its surface that would let me know its real marble. Suddenly, my illusion idea seems much more possible. Still, I keep moving. My curiosity has me itching for answers, and I'm not about to turn around and quit searching just because I'm scared.

I stop dead in my tracks. From the corner of my eye, I catch sight of my reflection in the enormous mirrors. I turn towards them, facing myself head on, peering through the dim candlelight to see what damage has been down.

I'm quite a sight here. First off, I'm completely naked except for a single layer of translucent silk draped around my hips. My nipples, once a soft pink, are now bright red and swollen. And for good reason: they've been pierced. Small black crystals dangle from thin, inch-long chains attached to tiny gold hoops. My navel is pierced as well, another small stone dangling from a matching gold circle there.

I stare at my reflection, dumfounded. I've never been one to desire body piercings or tattoos; I find them unnecessary and too trendy to be taken seriously. Yet here I stand with both my nipples and my belly violated. I blush at my own reflection, feeling uncomfortable in my own skin than I have in years.

How in the hell?

I continue to stare at my reflection, trying too imagine what circumstance I must have been in to agree to this.

Something warm brushes my skin, dragging me out of my musings. I watch in the mirror as two warm hands glide across my hips, resting on the slender bones and holding me tight. A muscled chest presses against my shoulder blades, making me shiver at the contact. Finally, my husbands head peeks around mine. Bright golden eyes shine in the delicate candlelight, boring into mine through the mirror.

The planes of his face seem more sever than usual, the shadows of the light sharpening the angles of his features. He smiles at me and nuzzles his cheek against my neck.

"You look beautiful," he whispers.

"Thank you." My voice is soft out of embarrassment. I know how much he's lusting after me, and this is the last thing I want him to see.

He continues to smile as one of his warm hands slips down over my hip. His flingers slip between my thighs, finding my clitoris with impossible speed. He circles it lightly with one finger, making me shiver again.

"Why not here?" he asks.

I speak without thinking. "Because I'm scared." It's not what I really wanted to say, but it is the truth.

He places gentle kisses along my neck. "Of what?"

I chew my lip. "The pain. The last ones weren't very enjoyable."

What am I saying? I agreed to this?

He purses his lips for a moment. His hands leave my hip and thighs, skimming over my body and cupping my breasts in his hands. I stifle a moan; they're so warm and soft I almost feel dizzy. He rolls my gilded nipples between his fingers, and I wince from the tiny sparks of pain that echo through my body.

"Tender?" her asks.

I nod, the pain lessening as he continues his gentle teasing.

He kisses my neck again. "It wouldn't be so bad."

"It would still hurt," I counter.

"Only for an instant."

"Down there? I don't think I could take it." I shake my head.

He sighs, disappointed. I'm sure he finds this image of me more than just appealing. Knowing him, though, I'm sure he would have been more pleased to have me go the whole nine yards and get everything pierced. But my dream self is apprehensive and not willing to play his game.

"I think you could," he whispers. He grips the slender chains of my piercings and tugs slightly, making me wince again.

I whimper. That hurts. I'm not a masochist by any standards - I hate pain.

"I think you could." He tugs the chains again. "A little training and stamina in you and you could take all the piercings I could give."

My lip quivers as he tugs harder. I desperately want to get away from him, but I'm frozen in my place. He's holding me hostage without having to touch me. I think it's his eyes. They're so beautifully hypnotic it almost hurts to look at them.

He pulls the chains again and I cry out from the pain.

"Stop," I beg. "Please. That hurts."

His smile returns. "Oh, the things I could do with you. You're so sensitive, Michelle. That gives me more to work with."

I whimper again. He keeps the chains taut, holding them out so my nipples are tormented endlessly. I understand how he got his reputation as a ruthless tyrant of damned souls. This is torture in itself.

"Stop!" I beg again.

His smile turns wicked. "I think not. I want to test just how much you can take. If you're going to be my queen, you need to have a bit more endurance than this."

He loops the chains around his fingers, his wicked smile growing more sinister as my eyes widen. I know what he's going to do, and I'm helpless to fight him off.

"I'll break you in, my sweet queen," he purrs. "Don't you worry about that."

I take one final breath before he jerks hard on the chains. Pain sears through me, burning my breasts and rendering my thoughts useless. I scream in agony, tears rolling down my cheeks as I wonder how much more of this I could take.

* * *

I bolt upright in bed. My breathing is frantic, my heart nearly bursting out of my chest. I'm drenched in my own sweat. I scan the room, looking in the numerous shadows for anything that might cause me harm.

Nothing moves. Only the delicate flicker of the sconces provide any movement. I sigh and relax a bit. There's no room of mirrors here. I'm safe in my bedroom, unharmed and warm. I pull the sheets to my chest and close my eyes, trying to regain my balance.

A memory flickers through my mind. The piercings in my dream! Frantic, my eyes snap open as I pull the sheets away from my chest and inspect the damage. My breasts are fine. There's no gold chains hanging from my nipples. No black stones dangling from my bellybutton. I'm unscathed as well. Good. All of that was just a dream and nothing more.

Another memory of my dream bubbles up -- my husband. Was he making me dream that? He certainly could. He's made stranger people imagine worse things. My curiosity stirs. Taking a deep breath, I look over to my side and gaze at my new husband.

Lucifer lays beside me in bed, his eyes closed and his mouth slightly open. He's so still when he sleeps. The only signs of him being alive are the tiny twitches of his fingers and mouth as he dreams.

I watch him, captivated. He's truly beautiful here. Not that he's ever been hideous, but here, asleep beside me, he's so calm and peaceful he almost doesn't seem real. His soft hair is unruly, his perfect lips are parted just enough to breathe. I can see how God picked him to be the most beautiful. Even sleeping he's almost impossible to imagine.

My inner child bursts to the surface. Like an idiot trapped in a cage with a ravenous sleeping tiger, I have in irresistible urge to touch him. Cautiously, I stretch my hand out towards him keeping my eyes on him in case he wakes up. My fingers barely brush against his cheek, his soft, icy flesh searing my fingertips. I hold my breath as I caress him again, hardly believing that this incredible creature is both unbelievably evil and my husband.

His eyes flicker slightly and I freeze. They flutter open, those bright golden eyes spearing me through the dark. They narrow at me in confusion, and he blinks several times to clear the sleep from his mind.

Shit.

I pull my hand back slowly, chewing my lip in embarrassment. "Sorry."

"What's wrong?" He rolls over and pushes himself up. He sits on the bed staring at me, his unnatural eyes making my heart race.

"Nothing," I lie. "Just a dream."

His flawless brows rise an inch. "What kind of dream?"

I blush and look away. I can't tell him that! It'll put more absurdly evil idea in his head!

"I can't remember..." I hope my hesitation will kill this conversation so I can go back to sleep.

The corners of his mouth twitch. "Was I in this dream of yours?"

I suppose that's safe...

I nod. "Yes."

"With you?" His smile widens.

I nod again. His smile breaks into a full grin. "And what were we doing?"

I stare at him wide-eyed, my face on fire. I don't dare tell him. "I don't... I can't really..."

He leans forward, his eyes staring into mine, a dark smile on his lips. "You're lying."

I lower my eyes involuntarily, affirming his suspicions.

Still smiling, he grips my shoulders and spins me around, then pulls me back against him. His chest pressed against my shoulders, bringing flashes of my dream into my kind. He loops his arms around my waist and holds me tight, leaning his chin on my shoulder.

"What were we doing?" Hs voice is high, excited to hear the details of my dream.

I swallow loudly, contemplating my choices. If I lie, he'll know and possibly punish me. If I'm honest, he might want to try having me pierced. As frightened as I am to talk, I know that having Lucifer happy is much better than having him pissed.  

"We were standing in this room full of mirrors. I don't' know why...there was so many of them." I make my voice as even as I can, trying to hide my anxiety. "We were staring at my reflection." "Oh? Why were we staring?" His hands start to roam my body, caressing my waist and hips with long fingers.

Oh boy. Here it comes.

I swallow again. "I was ...pierced."

He perks up, his body tensing against mine. "Pierced? Oh, tell me more." I can hear the excitement in his voice. He leans against me again, his hands never stopping their exploration.

I sigh. "My...nipples and my bellybutton."

Something hard twitches against my hip. It takes me a barely a heartbeat to recognize what it is. He's aroused, just as I thought he'd be. Now I'm really nervous, and I start mentally praying that he won't suggest such an awful idea.

His hands finally stop roaming my body, coming to rest at my breasts. He cups them gently, rolling my nipples between his fingers. They harden instantly, and I squirm against him.

"That's a very titillating idea, my dear," he purrs in my ear.

Damn.

"We might have to try that sometime." He massages my breasts, making my toes curl.

Now you've done it! I knew this would set him off!

"I don't know..." I trail off.

Oh, fuck! What now? How the hell do I diffuse this?

"Why not?" He's honestly curious.

I shift uncomfortably against him. "I don't like pain."

"Who said it would be painful?"

Aren't nipples piercings usually uncomfortable to start with?

I pause for a moment, confused. "I thought..."

"Oh, there are ways of making it far less painful than you think." He tweaks my nipples gently." I could even make you enjoy it, if you wanted."

Well, that would certainly make it less frightening.

I bite my lip again, an idea suddenly popping into my head. This entire marriage is based off my mother's failed deal. Maybe I can use a deal to my advantage. If I have to go through his evil plan, maybe he does, too.

"I...I have an idea." My heart is racing at my plan.

"Oh? And what would this idea be?" He's happy now, excited that I'm willing to go along.

"Say I was interested in doing your thought. About getting pierced."

"Yes?" I can hear the excitement in his voice. He presses his palms against my nipples, making me shiver from the cold.

"I thought...maybe we could make it fair. Even." My gut twists in worry.

He never stops teasing my breasts. "How so?"

Thank God. He's going along with it.

"Like...if I get a piercing, you get one, too." My stomach does a back flip as I wait for his answer.

He laughs, the sound inhumanly beautiful and impossibly seductive. "Oh, Michelle! That is an idea!"

I squirm again. Now I've really done it.

He pulls me close, his lips pressing against my neck. "I love it. Do I get to pierce you?"

I relax a bit, relieved that he's not angry. "I-I suppose so. Only if I get to do the same to you."

Whoa! Where did that come from?

He groans and he lays back into our bed, pulling me with him. I'm locked against him, laying on top of his body, staring up at the ceiling.

He kisses my neck again. "I love it. Piercing each other. What a way to bind us together."

Indeed. What better way to let others know you're taken than showing them your matching monogrammed nipple rings?

"It's a deal, then. You and I will have so much fun with this, Michelle. I can hardly wait." He pauses for a moment, and I feel another risqué idea coming on. "You know...we still have to consummate this marriage of ours. As far at the world's concerned, we're still not properly married yet."

I scowl. Yes, I know we're not but I've been promised the night off and I intend to have my own time tonight. I try to squirm away, but his hands fly to my breasts, freezing me in place. Damn his touch. It gets me every time.

"What do you say, Michelle?" He croons in my ear as he massages my breasts. "I know how tired you are, how exhausted. How about a nice, quick fuck to seal the deal? It'll be fast and easy, and you can straight back to sleep once we're finished."

Surprisingly, the idea is a welcome one. That damned spark of lust is back, only now it's grown into a small campfire. It makes me squirm again and I try to quell the need building between my thighs. But my attempts are in vain. At nineteen and with no sexual experience aside from giving blowjobs, my hormones are begging me to give in. They want to know what it's like to have my body ravaged and find that warm place of bliss I've had to find myself for so long.

What's the matter? they ask. Why not let someone else do the work for once?

I sigh to myself. Fine. A quick fuck should be enough to drown the fire in my veins.

"Okay," I whisper.

"Excellent!"

Lucifer rolls us over so that my face is pressed into the sheets. He slides off me and rears up, gripping my hips so my ass is lifted off the bed. I move my arms under me so I'm somewhat supported.

His chilled palm caresses the bare flesh of my ass, the cold making me shiver.

"Michelle, you are a delight to stare at."

His hand moves from my butt, slipping lower. His fingers brush my thighs, sending a fresh flurry of shivers coursing through my body. The move higher, slipping between my labia and gently stroking the entrance to my body. My toes curl involuntarily and my breath hitches in my throat.

I hear his muffled laugh behind me. "And so damn responsive. You're going to be so much fun to break."

I twist my fingers into the bed sheets and exhale loudly. I want this -- my body's practically begging for it -- but I hate the way he draws things out just to mess with me.

His fingers move without warning, sinking into me and gently stroking me from the inside. I freeze, the small bubble of fire in my belly growing into a full-blow inferno. God, that feels good! His fingers massage and caress my favorite spot, making me tremble and relax a bit.

Silently, I damn my family for never explaining the basics of sex to me. Mom had pulled me out of every sex ed class available, knowing that knowledge like that might diminish my chances of arriving to Lucifer a virgin. Even masturbation was something I had to discover out of my own curiosity. If I had known it would feel like this, I'd have pounced on my high school crush long ago.

Toying with my body was a good card for him to play. I'm moaning softly now, swaying my hips back and forth, begging him for more attention. He laughs again but acquiesces, pressing harder against my sweet spot. I drop my head into the pillow and groan into the softness. He certainly knows how to please a girl, I'll give him that.





The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 01



"I think you're ready." He withdraws his fingers without warning, making me whimper. "You're full of surprises, Michelle. Arguing with me one moment, begging me for more the next. I'll have to teach you how to be more of one and less of the other."

I feel the bed dip as he shifts forward. The smooth flesh of his cock replaces his fingers, resting against my pussy, poised for action. It's as cold as the rest of him, but harder than steel and covered in soft, silky skin. The memory of sucking him off floods my mind for an instant, and I shift my hips against him.

He pulls back and inch, the think head of his cock pressing against the entrance to my body. I freeze and try to relax, knowing my instinctive reaction will only make this uncomfortable.

"Good girl. The more you relax, the easier it will be."

He eases forward inch by inch, the full length of him slipping into me. He's bigger than I remember, but his thickness is wonderful and beyond satisfying. Feeling the first few inches sliding in, I'm finally able to relax my body and sink down into the sheets. As leisurely as he's moving, it's still magnificent. It must be torture for him to go so slowly. I know he must want to tear me to pieces, yet he holds back enough to chip away at me bit by bit.

A tight, sharp pain sears me from the inside. He may be going at a snail's pace, but my body still had some resistance to it. My virginity gives way, and I'm left gasping for air for a moment as I adjust to cashing in my V-card. It wasn't as bad as Katie had told me it was when she a Regan had first done it, but it's still uncomfortable.

A handful of heartbeats later, his hips brush against my butt and he stills. My body has now adjusted to his girth and the loss of my purity, allowing me to regain my balance. God, he's huge! I'm surprised he could even fit. I shift my hips, getting a better angle and I'm able feel a little less overstuffed.

"How are you feeling?" One finger traces my spine.

I take inventory for a moment, checking to make sure all the valves and pipes are in line and at working pressure. "Good. I'm okay. Just a little stunned."

He laughs at my inexperience, my innocence, my insecurities. I feel him pull back a bit, the feeling of his body gliding against mine indescribable. He holds still for a second, letting me adjust to the feeling of being filled then drained. I appreciate the moment of silence and take a deep breath, digging my fingers into the sheets and prepping myself for whatever he's planning.

Please go slow. Please go slow.

He bucks into me hard, slamming his hips against mine. I cry out in surprise. I swear I was begging him to go slow!

He pulls back and thrusts forward again. I lose myself temporarily. My hands slip out from under me and I collapse into the bed. God, that felt good! I lay there reeling, still not quite sure what happened. All I know was that he moved forward and three tons of dynamite went off inside my body.

"I'm going to ride you like a stallion."

He grips my hips, pulling me back against him. I panic and manage to grab the sheets again, holding myself steady. Whatever that was, I want more. I take one last cleansing breath, shift my hips in his hands, and close my eyes. I feel a tsunami coming, and I'm bracing myself against whatever floodgate I can find.

Lucifer gets the message and wastes no time flooding the levees of my body. He bucks his hips against me repeatedly, the bottom edge of his cock stroking my sweet spot over and over again with deadly accuracy. I twitch with every quick thrust of his body, my senses numbed to nothing bur the delicious feeling of fire racing through my veins. I moan and twist my fingers into the sheets, silently praying that he'll never stop.

One of his hands leaves my hip. I feel his fingers twist into my hair, and he pulls my head back sharply. He keeps his other hand melded to my hip, a precaution in case I manage to find my senses and try to crawl away. Fat chance of that. The way he's indoctrinating me into the world of sex may be a bit more brutal than most, but I'm not about to sacrifice this kind of ecstasy for anything. Not even red velvet cake with homemade frosting. This is way better.

Satisfied that I can take him, Lucifer starts to really play with me. He slows his thrusts but moves with more power. A few seconds later, he's moving faster than lightening. Again he switches, angling his hips so that every inch of him grinds against the inner wall of my pussy. At every alteration I cry out in shocked bliss. He's toying with my body, using me as he sees fit, and I have no arguments.

Deep inside me, something stirs. It's a feeling I've only barely tasted when I masturbate: it's an orgasm, alright, but this is no ordinary climax. My body has never been used so freely or pleasured so fully in my life. What's coming isn't just a small little explosion of pleasure and relief. What's coming is a raging ball of pent up lust, angst and ten years worth of curiosity. When it detonates, it's going to blow our room into a pile of rubble.

Lucifer never stops his mindless thrusting. I can hear his harsh breathing, feel his hand twist tighter in my hair. He's as close as I am, maybe closer, but he's not showing any sign of stopping. I'm not sure I want him to. If he could d it, I'd have him keep going for the rest of the night.

He unravels his fingers from my hair and grips my hips again. I guess at what's coming and grip the sheets with everything I've got.

I've guessed right and my precautions had saved me. He rams his body against mine, thrusting so quickly and so deeply I would have fallen over if I hadn't gripped the sheets. He never slows his pace, though, and I'm left kneeling on my hands and knees and pure, raw lightening roars through me. I cry out eat every push and pull of his hips. It's beyond incredible, and I'm sure this feeling is so perfect it was never mean for a mortal body like mine.

He thrusts against me one last time and I shatter beneath him. I throw my head back and scream, my body nearly shaking as my climax bowls over every barrier I have. Fireworks appear behind my eyes, and I collapse into the bed, nearly passing out from pure bliss.

Lucifer follows close behind. He rams into me once more before he stiffens. His fingers drill into my hips as he yells out his own release. His body involuntarily bucks against mine as he unloads what must be centuries of his seed into my body. I take it silently, still reeling from my own climax, though I wonder how my body could take such a load without breaking apart.

Maybe I already have,

Slowly, his fingers release my hips. He pulls away, leaving me empty and feeling more alone that I can ever remember feeling. His arms loop around my waist and he pulls me down with him as he settles back into bed. I fall willingly, exhaustion now flooding my limbs. My fingers untangle themselves from the sheets as he pulls me close. His lips press against my neck and his hands reach up to cup me breasts again.

"Well done! You took that like a soldier." His kisses follow the curve of my neck.

I giggle mindlessly, my body still recovering from the explosion. I'm tired now, and I want to sleep. All that hard, awesome sex has rendered my limbs useless. My mind is slowly being rebuilt after being decimated by the blast. But it was worth it. So worth it.

His hands massage my breasts again, but I'm too tired and sated to squirm against him. He notices my lack of resistance and smiles against my throat.

"I take it you want to sleep now."

I'm barely able to nod. I want to sleep so badly I'm barely able to keep my eyes open.

That was fabulous. Now let me sleep.

He laughs and nuzzles my neck. "Then sleep. I'll wake you up in the morning and we'll present you to our people." He continues to massage my breast in his hands, just enough to keep small sparks flowing through my veins. "You did so well, my queen. One of these days, I'll show you some real fun."

I close my eyes and settle into bed. Lucifer pulls the blankets over our bodies, and I'm warm and safe again. He continues to kiss my neck, and I stretch my neck out to give him more access. Satan he may be, but who am I to turn down a free kiss?  

"We'll have so much fun together, you and I. So much fun. Oh, my Michelle." He pauses, and I can almost hear the smile creeping onto his lips. "My Michelle."

Yes, I suppose so. And I guess that makes him my Lucifer. It's a perfect balance, now. We've claimed each other. No one else can have either of us. I have my husband now; my beautiful, evil, irresistible husband. And he has me. Now that's a trade most people would have never imagined. Nevertheless, I intend to make the most of this union, even if it kills me.

My Lucifer. What am I going to do with you?

I never get to answer my own question. My mind blacks out just as I get around to finding an answer, abandoning me to the sweet darkness of my subconscious. I dream again, but this time, there are no mirrors or nipple rings. Just distant memories of my childhood with my father and the image of him wishing me the best of luck.

* * *

So? How'd I do? I hope you enjoyed it, because this took me a LONG time to write out (34 pages doesn't come out in 24 hours). Chapter 2 will be posted as soon as I can write that one out. Thanks for reading and I'll see you soon!

Also, the parts of this story will all be listed under the main title: "The Old King and the New Bride", so you won't have to confusion of finding the chapters like in the 'Dealmaker' stories. Also, I promises to number these chapters. I promise.

Finally...thanks, Matt! I really appreciate your help on this! 



The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 02



 Hello, again! Nice of you to come back! As you can see, I've used the story same title for each chapter of the story. Much easier to find, isn't it? Anyway, I hope you've enjoyed reading about poor Michelle's adventures so far. I know I enjoy writing them (with a little help from my friend, Matt), so take a seat and read on.

Chapter 2: Queen of the Underworld. . . Finally

Dad and I sit in the hard plastic seats of the stadium, cheering the teams on with the rest of the crowd. It's a beautiful October afternoon, and dad's scored some prize tickets to postseason game. It's the Padres versus the Astros, and the Astros are getting crushed. The stadium is huge; it's packed to capacity and people are going nuts over every play. Even the announcer is hyper today.

I've got a hot dog in one hand and a Coke in the other, alternating between watching the game and inhaling my food. Dad's opted for a cold beer and a plate of nachos. We watch the game closely, waiting for that magical moment when the underdog rises from the ashes and dropkicks the winning team.

I love this. It's the only time I get to spend some quality time with my dad. Usually, he's out of town on business, but he makes up for it every month by taking me to games and trying to beat me at air hockey. For a businessman, I've got a freaking awesome dad.

I turn to smile at him. He's beaten me to the punch, grinning at me with his signature smile and warm hazel eyes. My eyes. I smile back through a mouthful of hotdog, excited and relieved to be here. We're alone for a few precious hours. Just us and the teams fighting for our attention. It's a rare treat.

There's a crack down in the field. As we've guessed, the Astros are starting to gain ground. It's only the sixth inning. They still have time to catch up...

Cool fingers brush my shoulder. Warm breath tickles my ear.

"Michelle." 

Dad's phone goes off. Hi's smile fades and he rolls his eyes as his fishes his blackberry from his pocket. His infamous scowl has arrived as he answers the phone.

"Yes?" He pauses. "Hello, honey."

I drop my head and scowl at the dirty stadium floor. Of course it's mom. Who else would call at four in the afternoon because she's feeling lonely? God, she's so needy! I'm surprised that she's even able to watch us walk out the door before having another false alarm. 

"Yes, yes I know." Dad's as irritated as I am. "Lisa, we've talked about this. Michelle and I have one day a week where we get to hang out together. We'll be home in a couple of hours."

I set my food aside and cup my chin in my hands. I love my mom, I really do. I mean, she's my mom. But she has a fantastic ability to ruin every single good time I'm having with my dad. Today's interruption is especially irritating: dad's just come home from a business meeting in Boston, and it's our first father-daughter quality time in two months.

"Lisa, please calm down. This is a tradition we've had for years. Please don't ruin it for us." 

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice dad has caught sight of me. He's seen my scowl, my eyes. He knows how upset I am. He's been dealing with mom's behavior since long before I was born. How he stands it, I'll never know.

Dada takes in a deep breath. "Lisa, I'm sorry! I'm not going to rush home and waste time I could be spending with our daughter on another one of your panic attacks. We'll see you at home!"

He disconnects the call and shuts his phone off, grinning at me. I'm smiling so wide my face should be splitting in two. He's managed to grow his spine back and shut mom's neediness down for the moment. I'm elated.

"What did she want?" I can't help but be curious.

He shrugs. "She said Mrs. Hoppen was harassing her again. Wanted me to come down and talk to the old lady."

I roll my eyes. "She does know that if she'd stop stealing all of her tomatoes, Mrs. Hoppen would stop complaining."

Dad gives a wicked smile. "Somehow, I don't think she cares."

"Michelle."

The fingers become more insistent, traveling down my shoulder and spinning teasing circles around my breasts. I groan and shift slightly, rolling onto my stomach so I can dream in peace.

There's another crack of the bat. The batter goes flying down the line, racing past the first baseman and rounding the corner to second.

"Why do you think-"

"Your mother complains about fighting with neighbors when she's the one who starts them? No idea, kiddo." Dad sighs and picks up another nacho. "It's something about your mother that's driven me nuts for years."

"Then why don't you get divorced?" The question comes out before I can stop myself. I'm horrified, and I clap my hand over my mouth and hang my head.

Dad's silent for a moment. "Is that what you want, Michelle?"

 I'm almost in tears. "No. I'm sorry, I-"I can't even finish. I'm grounded for sure.

 "Hey," Dad loops his arm over my shoulder. "It's okay, kiddo. I know what you're thinking."

"Michelle." Those cool hands slide under my body and cup my breasts gently.

 I groan softly. "What?"

Icy lips press against my neck. "Time to get up, my queen."

I groan louder and bury my face in the pillow. "Why? It's only eight."

Musical laughter echoes in my ears, wrapping around my mind and caressing it awake. "You only wish. It's nearly ten."

Ten? Shit.

Another chilled kiss brings me further into the waking world. "Believe me, I'd love to stay here in bed with you, my dear. But there are things that need to get done. The faster you get up, the faster we can do them, and the faster we can go beck to bed."

I give a muffled sigh. "Fine."

I roll over and push the thick blankets off my body. My body's still groggy, so my motions are slow and jerky. Still, I manage to wriggle out of my husband's enticing embrace and push myself up. I roll my neck, setting my vertebrae back into place.

I feel the bed shift behind me. Seconds later, Lucifer walks into my line of sight, smiling at me with bright eyes. I'm still slightly stunned by him; I don't think I'll ever get used to how he looks. He's just as beautiful as he was yesterday, all chiseled perfection and glowing splendor. I could be married to him for a thousand years and never stop being entranced by him.

"Let's get you dressed."

He walks over to an enormous carved oak armoire that's been pressed up against the far wall. He grips the twisted iron handles and flings the massive doors open, revealing endless racks of clothing inside. A menagerie of dresses and corsets line the inside, all of it silk, lace and leather. Fit for a queen of the damned, I suppose.

Lucifer starts rummaging through the forest of clothing, tossing elaborately tailored gowns and perfectly acceptable corsets aside. I sigh and push myself off the bed. He's never had a queen before, maybe not even a girlfriend, so having him dress me will most likely end in disaster. I need to intervene before he tries to clothe me like a cheap hooker. Or worse.

I slip off the bed and step lightly onto the tile floor. I take one step towards him and wince in pain. Fuck, I'm sore! All that magnificent sex last night rendered my body almost useless. Who knew losing your virginity like that could be so painful later? I bite my lip and straighten my spine. I have to fight through this. If I don't, my clothing choices will be reduced to nothing.

I take one tentative step after another, slowly but surely closing the distance between us. Finally, after many aching minutes, I stand just behind him, watching as he tosses more inadequate clothing aside. His wings shift slightly with every twist and turn of his shoulders, the muscles of his back flexing gloriously as he seeks out my attire for the day. A small spark ignites in my belly, and I have to clamp down on my cheek to stifle the burn.

Easy, tiger. Have patience.

"What are you looking for exactly?" I scan the growing piles of discarded clothing. "You're rejecting a lot of stuff."

He still, and turns to look at me. "Some thing appropriate for a queen."

I glance back at the piles of luxurious fabrics. "There's a lot here that could fall into that category." 

He glances down and grimaces. "Not what I'm looking for."

I sigh. "Here, then. Let me help." 

Nodding, he steps aside. I step forward, wincing as I do, and start sifting through the remaining racks of clothing.

"Sore?" he chimes in my ear.

I huff slightly. "No thanks to you," I tease.

One cold palm caresses my ass, making me jump then shiver. 

"Careful," he whispers. "I'll put you in much more discomfort if you cop and attitude."

I scoff and roll my eyes. "Attitude. I think you could out-attitude me every single day."

He smacks my ass, making me jump again. "True, but still uncalled for."

I reach down and brush his hand away. If I'm going to be dressed up as his queen, I need to concentrate. I'll never find suitable clothing with him teasing me constantly. "What exactly did you have in mind for me today?"

He pauses, taking a moment to collect his thoughts. "Something that's regal, yet seductive. You need to be respected, but I still want to see you."

"Regal yet seductive..." I mumble to myself as I rummage through the racks. "Quite an interesting order to fill."

"I don't care what it is or how it looks, really." He steps behind me, reaches around my waist and cups my breasts again. "I just want to make sure these are put on display."

I have to stop and catch my breath. His touch is icy, but far more seductive than any contact I've ever felt. I shake my head to clear it of all the delicious memories of last night. I can think about those later. Right now, I need to focus. I take another deep breath and dive back into the sea of clothing.

Okay, so he wants a queen who's also eye-candy. Let's see...

"Do you have a color preference?"

He pauses again. "Nothing to bright or cheerful. You're the queen of the underworld. There's not much to celebrate here."

"Okay. That eliminates anything yellow, green or orange." I start pushing anything that's light and cheerfully colored aside. "Anything else?"

"Black and red, mostly. We are in the darker part of the world."

I nod. "Any clothing type you're looking for? Dress? Corset?"

I feel him shrug behind me. "Don't care. As long as I have a fair view of your tits, I'm happy."

Well, at least he's direct.

I sift through the racks again, feeling as if we're getting nowhere. There's tons of beautiful stuff here, but nothing that fills his requirements. I sigh and start preparing to let him have a shot. I stop suddenly when my eye catches something in the back. Curious, I reach into the racks to get a better view of my score.

What I pull out is incredible. It's a floor-length ebony silk ball gown with red lace panels at the sides and black lace bell sleeves. The dress is nearly backless except for a few corset-style lacings of red velvet that weave through small silver hoops. The front is cut deep, the opening spearing nearly half way down the bodice. Along both sides of the cut are several silver grommets held together with slender chains. It's a beautiful piece, with just the amount of sex appeal he's looking for.

Score! 

I squirm out of his embrace for a second time and spin around so he can see my find. "How's this?"

His gold eyes widen an inch, and a sly smile crossed his perfect lips. "Where was that when I was in there?"

"In the back," I shrug.

His smile widens another inch. "Yes, that will do perfectly."

I give him a sarcastic half-smile. "Only because my boobs will be spilling out."

"Indeed." He's grinning now. "Shall we get you dressed?"

I raise one eyebrow. "I have a choice?"

He smiles. "The easy way or the hard way."

"Easy." I don't even want to think of what the hard way might entail.

He reaches forward and grabs the dress from my hands, and I watch as he methodically unties the velvet laces in the back. A second later, he holds the dress out for me, opening the back and lowering it so I can step in. It looks like a tight fit, so I grip the edge of the armoire to steady myself as I slide one leg, then the other, in. He carefully pulls it up my body, pausing so I can slip my arms in the sleeves.

Another gentle tug and I'm nearly dressed. I hold the front of the dress to my chest as Lucifer steps around behind me to tie the back. There's quite a few silver hoops to be threaded, so I have to stand perfectly still for longer than I'd hoped. 

It doesn't take too long, though. He pulls the ribbons through the last hoop and ties the off, tapping my shoulder to let me know he's finished. I drop my hands and spin around once. The skirt of the dress flares out a bit as I twirl, making me feel like a little girl again. Lucifer is grinning at me, though I'm sure it has to do more with the amount of cleavage showing than my childish freedom.

"Would you like to see?" he asks.

I nod, and he grips my hand and leads me to an enormous freestanding mirror framed by dark carved wood. He gently ushers me forward so I can see myself as a queen for the first time.

The woman in the mirror looks like me, but she's far too regal looking to actually be me. Her dress is perfectly fitted, hugging her every curve to perfection. The deep cut in the front of the dress barley contains her enormous chest, but the slender silver chains that hold the front together help a bit. Her soft hazel eyes are offset by the blacks and reds of the dress, her dark curls almost blending in with the fabrics.

Damn...I look good!

Lucifer steps up behind me and loops his arms around my waist. He pulls me back against him, pressing his cold chest against my bare shoulder blades. His lips caress my neck as he stares at me in the mirror. 

"You look delicious," he whispers against my neck.

I tremble from his touch, but manage to regain my balance. "Thank you." I glance down at his ripped jeans, the only clothing he's wearing. "Nice of you to dress up."

He scowls softly at me in the mirror. "These are my good jeans."

I raise my brows. "Your good jeans?"

He shoots me a triumphant smile. "You should see my bad ones."

"No. I'm scared." I'm just barely able to hold back my smile.

He gives me a playful jerk against the waist. "I'll show you another time. Right now, we have to get going."

"Oh? And where are we off to?" I tease back and rock my hips so they grind against his abdomen.

He laughs softly in my ear. "No teasing. We have work to do."

His restriction prompts me to play. I swing my hips once more, savoring his soft groan. "Why not?"

"Because I'll toss you onto that bed, fuck you till you stop breathing, and ruin your dress." His voice is low, threatening yet irresistibly seductive.

Not a bad proposal...

He pulls away from me, cutting off my blossoming sexual fantasies. He is right, though. He's the king of Hell, so there must be tons of mundane things he has to do. Maybe the fuck-you-till-you-can't-breathe part should be saved for a later time.

His icy hand grips mine, gently tearing me away from the mirror, he leads me toward the elaborately carved door, opening it with so much grace and ease it almost seems impossible. He steps back, allowing me to pass through before him. He follows closely behind me, slamming the door closed behind us.

The monstrous hall is as empty as before. It's lighter now, with rays of warm sunlight pouring in from the glass panel ceiling. The flames in the sconces have been extinguished, and the arctic wind that usually owl through here have lessened a bit.

Lucifer steps up to me, then proceeds to lead me down the hallway. 

"Where are we going exactly?" I ask distractedly.

"The main foyer. It's where all the important stuff happens."

I nod. "I didn't know there was so much bureaucracy here. I thought you died, got sentenced, and burned."

He laughs. "Well, yes. That's the main basis of things, but there is a form of paperwork. We have to keep track of who people are, why they're here, where they go. The usual read tape."

"You also seem very...diplomatic," I say quietly.

He turns to me cocking his head. "Me diplomatic? How so?"

"Well," I start, "I haven't seen you fly off then handle or incinerate anyone yet."

A dark smile crosses his lips. "Yet."

Well, he's got a point there.

"So what's on the schedule for today?" I try to divert his mind elsewhere.

"A whole list of things. I've got deals to make, meeting with royalty to arrange... And then there's your presentation."

Shit, I'd forgotten about that. Tonight is my official indoctrination into my place as Hell's queen. I'll be watched by every demon, damned soul and fallen angel in this place. My gut twists slightly, and I start praying to myself that I don't royally screw it up.

"Deals?" I ask.

He nods. "Yep. That's where we're heading right now, there's a group of human here to see me and possibly sell their soul in exchange for my word."

I glance up at him. "So, who are these people?"

He sighs. "They're everyone. Princes, farmers, popes, peasants. I get a different mix every day."

"And what do you do with them?"

"Deals, mostly. Though I'll admit, the exchange rate isn't too good here." He offers sly smile.

I scoff. "Oh, yes. A marriage into the royal family in exchange for three hundred years of servitude or your daughter. That sounds like a wonderful bargain."

"She'll pay her debt sooner than you think." His voice is low, and there's a wicked gleam in his eye.

I nod. "The demons who came to collect me said she wasn't getting off so easily."

He shakes his head. "She isn't. The deal is in her name, not yours, so she still has to pay despite your welcome substitution."

"Why do you do that? Make people do stuff like what my mother did? Is it a rush?" I ask as calmly as I can. It seems so vicious to trick people into paying off a debt they can't afford.

"No, it's not exciting for me. It's the way of the world. People will always sacrifice one thing for something else. They just need to have the right circumstances." He shrugs his muscular shoulders. "I don't make people do what they do. I just give them the opportunity to do it. And then I run them through the ringer for it."

I short softly. "You're awful."

He gives me a wicked grin. "It's who I am and what I do."

The end of the hallway comes quicker than I'd thought. Just a few feet ahead of us, two massive twin doors signal the entrance to they foyer. They're nearly thirty feet high and elaborately carved with more dancing demons and screaming souls. There are gems and thick bands of silver and gold imbedded into these doors, giving them a more regal presence that the ones in the hallway.

As we approach the, they swing open, welcoming us with open arms to the main meeting area. Already, I can hear the thunder of demonic voices and the tinkle of succubae laughter. I'm nervous about going inside, frightened that one of these hellions won't approve and attack me for being a human. I slow my pace a bit, trying to prolong the inevitable, but Lucifer presses a hand to my back and urges me forward through the doors.

We're greeted by a mass of demons milling about the colossal room. Each wall is nearly a hundred feet long and set with huge slabs of veined marble. More Greek columns extend up towards a plate-glass ceiling that lets in rays of warm sunlight. An enormous set of carved granite stairs stretches across the back wall. Two carved stone and iron thrones await us at their peak. 

It's very much like the great halls of the kings of old, but much more sinister.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 02



In the center of the room is a considerably large group of humans, maybe thirty at least. They're dressed in a variety of clothing, from the fine linen of the wealthy to the torn rags of the destitute. They're here to see my husband and barter their soul for a promise. My heart breaks for them. They'll never get out of that bargain even if they tried.

I'm lead towards the thrones, the sea of demons parting as we walk. They bow their heads in respect to us, even me. My gut tells me they have to; either they bow or they burn. The humans notice us as well, scurrying back as we pass by and ducking their heads to avoid my gaze. I avoid their gaze, my fear of being judged as a traitor suddenly bursting to the surface.

As we make our way to our thrones, I spot Leyna standing beside the far wall, chatting away with a group of succubae. I suppress a grimace. That man-eater is annoying as shit. She's conceited, vain and relentless when it comes to my new husband. She's been trying for centuries to catch his attention, and hates me because I caught it instead of her. If I weren't queen, I'm sure she'd try to kill me. 

Leyna sees me as we draw closer to our seats. She shoots Lucifer an overly-flirtatious smile. He answers with a dark glare. She giggles girlishly and brushes aside his rejection, a response that literally drives me nuts. When she spots me, her spine straightens and a look of enraged jealousy comes over her face. That makes me smile. It's nice to know that having my status as queen is enough to piss her off and keep her in her place.

We climb the steps of the staircase, with Lucifer right at my side. The thrones he's commissioned are quite beautiful actually, if you're willing to look past their dark presences. They're made of solid black iron, twisted and sharpened in accordance with Lucifer's own eccentric tastes. A multitude of black spikes radiates out from the crests at the top. The backs and arm rests are encrusted with jewels of every color and shape. Thick velvet seats have been sewn in to make sitting a bit more comfortable. They're a perfect blend of opulence and wickedness.

Lucifer steps aside and lets me sit first. I sweep the gown around me feet as I sit, smoothing the skirt over my knees. I hear the soft squeak beside me as Lucifer takes his own seat. He leans over to one side of the chair, resting an elbow on the armrest and cupping his chin in his hands. He stretches his free arm out and flicks his fingers at the mass of demons surrounding us. 

"Out!"

The herd of demons turns to him for a second, then scatter in all directions from the room. The chamber empties in seconds, leaving only the small group of humans behind. Two armor-clad guards stand behind them guarding the main doors. As the last of the demons exit, I catch a glimpse of Leyna leaving the hall. She whips her head around, gives me one last withering glare, then vanishes.

I roll my eyes and focus half-heartedly on the humans that are left. I try my best to ignore Leyna, but her constant jabs and stares are starting to get on my nerves. My rational mind begs me to talk to Lucifer and see if he can put out a restraining order on her, but my own personal ego won't allow it. I don't want to go crawling to my husband at every mean word and nasty glare aimed towards me. That will make me look like I can't handle holding my ground as a queen. If she wants to fight me, then she can.

The hall is completely empty now except for me, Lucifer, a few guards and the mass of humans. The huddle together slightly, terrified to be here and to be standing in front of my infamous husband. If I was them, I'd be freaked out, too. But I'm not. I have a different perspective than they do being married to him. It's a bit like living in a glass house: they're on the outside looking in, and I'm on the inside looking out. Our perspectives will never match.

Lucifer turns to me and smiles softly. "You can tune this out if you want. It's all selling souls and making promises."

"You should have told me to bring a book.' I smile back.

He snorts a laugh. "I could find other ways to entertain you."

I pause, pondering the prospect. I reject it, though. As much as I look forward to another round of mind-blowing sex, I'm no exhibitionist. I have no intention of having these poor souls watch me fuck minutes before they make a deal.

Might put a bad taste in their mouth.

I flick my eyes to the small crowd. "Later."

He sighs and nods. He turns his attention back to the crow of humans. "Which of you is first?"

They shift uncomfortably, looking at one another as a sense of horror envelops them. My heart breaks for them. They have no idea what they're getting into. I want to warn then, to jump out of my seat and yell for them to run away, but I hold myself back. Get between Lucifer and the acquisition of new souls? Even for a queen, that's suicide.

Finally, an old fisherman steps up to the plate. He's a wizened old scarecrow, with sunken black eyes, thin lips and a full grey beard. Time has not been on his side.

"Your name?" Lucifer asks thoughtlessly.  

He coughs for a moment, then answers in a harsh, raspy voice. "Michael Hasen."

Michael...oh, boy. This won't go over well.

Lucifer nod politely. "And what's your request, Michael?"

"The catching's been slow this year. Those damn sea pirates on the Wendigo are catching every crab in the ocean. There's almost nothing left for my crew!" he cries.

That's it? That's why you're selling your soul?

I sigh and turn my attention to the elaborate stained-glass window above us. People are nuts.

"Michael, you know I can't just create more crabs in the ocean. That would upset the natural order of things." As if I really care about keeping order.

He nods vigorously. "Yes, I know. But can't you do something?"

Lucifer nod. "I suppose the Wendigo could have a minor accident at sea."

Michael's beady eyes light up. "That would save my ship!"

And screw you into the ground, old man. Oh, you poor baby.

"You're really ready to sell your soul just to have your competition knocked out of the race for a few months?"

Do you really have to ask?

He nods again. "My ship and my crew are all I have. If we lose this, we'll have nothing."

Lucifer stares at him impassively. "You do know the price for having me do this for you?"

He drops his head. "Yes, sir. It's a risk I'm willing to take if it means saving my business and my men."

My heart twists again. Oh, this poor old fart. He's selling his soul for a few years of good fishing so he and his crew can survive. Not for power or money or sex, just to survive. I stare harder out the window, doing my best to ignore the situation. If I keep watching, I'll break my silence and try to scare him off so he can save himself.

Lucifer smile at him. "Consider it done, then."

Michael perks up, staring at us jubilantly. "You're certain?"

"Of course. When have I ever backed out of a deal?"

The old man breathes a sigh of relief. "My God. Thank you, sire."

I keep my smile plastered to my face as Lucifer waves him out. He turns to me as his next victim steps forward. 

"How are you?"

"Fine. A little bored. But fine." I'm lying through my teeth, but I don't want him to see the pain this causes me.

He shrugs. "There's a lot of boredom with this part. Yes?" He turns to face our next customer.

The next couple of hours pass by quickly, albeit heartbreakingly.. Darren, a father of two sick girls, bargains his soul for their cure. Natalie, a lonesome secretary, wants the looks of a supermodel. Brian, an underappreciated employee, wants his corrupt boss chucked out the top window. It's tiring, really, having all these people walk through our doors just to help themselves to something more. At least Darren had a noble reason to sell his soul. The rest just wanted what they themselves were too cowardly to chase after.

Finally, the last customer steps up. He can't be older than twenty four and he's quite the looker, with full lips and bright green eyes. Dressed in an immaculately tailored navy suit and black tie, I'm sure he makes quite the impression on women. His short blond hair is plastered to his head with two gallons of hair gel, his nails are cleaned to perfection, and there's not a single blemish on his face. He's every part the shark he's perceived to be. What could he possibly want from my husband?

"Your name, boy?" Lucifer calls out.

The young man looks indignant for a moment, then regains his composure and clears his throat. "Bradfield Pellistar, sir."

Well, that's a high-born name if I've ever heard one.

Lucifer has a similar reaction, but only shows his feelings toward the man in his eyes. The rest of his face is warm and welcoming. "And what deal did you plan on making today?"

Bradfield gives a sly grin. Those bright green eyes find me, narrowing as he focuses in. my gut twists slightly. I have a bad feeling about this one.

He laughs, a move that actually surprises me. "Nothing that the others would want. No wrecked ships, no superhuman looks, no dead bosses. I make enough, and look good enough, not to worry about those things." He smiles, showing of two rows of perfectly straight teeth.

Cocky little bastard. What's he after?

"Again, Bradfield, what's your deal?" Lucifer's as irritated as I am by his attitude.

He shrugs. "Something out of the ordinary, I suppose."

Lucifer scowls. "How so?"

He smiles again. "I've noticed your pretty little friend."

Oh no.

I flick my eyes to Lucifer, my stomach twisting tighter as I do. There's a look of horrified outrage on his flawless face, something I'd never thought could exist. He looks ready to launch himself at this cocky little wannabe politician, but he manages to hold himself back...just.

"You're referring to my queen, I suppose?" He grits his teeth.

Bradfield's eyes light up. "Queen? I never read about you having a queen in the Bible."

Lucifer narrows his already burning gaze. "New addition to the family."

Bradfield's smile grown an inch. "Well, that certainly makes things a bit more interesting?"

He's caught my attention now, and I'm just as curious as Lucifer is to know what he wants. At the same time, I'm scared to find out.

"Interesting in what way?" Lucifer's words are methodically chosen.

Bradfield shrugs. "Royalty's always a better score."

Oh, he's fucked now.

I look at Lucifer to see his reaction. I can practically see steam pouring out of his ears.

"A better score?" My husband's composure is held together by some glue, a lick and a promise.

"They're harder to get to, so getting the chance to fuck any royal, even one from the underworld, is a great achievement." His voice is smooth, his tone even. He's done this before. "And by the looks of your queen, you've scored in the fucking department."

Lucifer takes a long, slow breath. I can see him nearly shaking from rage, but he holds it back. I can understand his fury. As much as I appreciate the compliments, I'm not interested. Men like that make my skin crawl. That, and I'm really not in the mood to get incinerated by a jealous husband because someone else touched his toy.

Lucifer manages a small smile. "Quite lovely, isn't she?"

Bradfield grins back. "Got a hell of a chest on her."

Well, aren't you subtle?

For a moment, Lucifer's able to calm down a bit. He glances at me, his eyes flicking down to my generous cleavage, then back up to my face again. "I'll have to agree with you on that. She's got a fantastic rack on her."

I smile back shyly. An idea pops into my mind then: a playful, devilish idea that will drive this unwelcome guest nuts. I decide to go for it. I feign absentmindedness and pluck at the chains that hold the front of my dress together. The action causes my breasts to giggle a bit, making my more-than-generous cleavage all the more enticing. From the corner of my eye, I watch Bradfield's eyes widen in shock.

Lucifer catches on almost instantly. He smiles back at me, a glint of mischief in his hypnotic eyes. He's as tired of this asshole as I am, so blowing off a little steam by making him squirm will help both of us.

"Alright," he whispers. "Let's play."

I smile back, and he reaches out to caress my face. His touch is icy, but calming. 

"How is my queen doing? I hope you're not too bored with this process."

I shake my head. "I'm fine."

"Are you sure?" He stars at me intensely.

I start to answer, then stop. His fingers have gone from arctic to hot, and the heat is spreading over my entire body. I'm not sweating at all, and there's no alarm bells ringing in my head, so I'm technically fine. I'm confused for a moment, until I start feeling uncomfortable in my gown. I'm sweltering now, and I long to undo the chains at the front and relieve myself...

I almost burst out laughing. I know the game now, and I'm more than in the mood to play along.

"I am feeling a little warm. Would you mind if I cooled myself off a bit?" I ask in the most innocent voice I have in my arsenal.

He grins at me. "Of course, my queen! I wouldn't want you to feel uncomfortable in your new home."

I smile back shyly, the lean back from his touch and settle into my seat. My high school drama classes kick in, and I start acting like it's July back in Phoenix. I tug at the top chain of my dress, happy that it comes undone relatively easily. The front of my dress pulls apart another inch, revealing even more of my awesome cleavage. Is grin to myself and look down at our unwelcome guest.

Bradfield's jaw has smashed through the tile floor.

Lucifer turns his attention to Bradfield. "Now, where were we?"

"Dear sweet God," he whispers.

"Mister Pellistar?" Lucifer feigns annoyance.

The young leech shakes his head a bit, tearing his gaze from me and reluctantly going back to my husband. "Forgive me, sir. I just-"

Lucifer waves his hand. "It's nothing. She can be quite an exhibitionist at times."

I smile back, toying with the free chain.

"Now then. What was the deal you wanted to make?" Lucifer leans forward an inch, gazing at the man with barely contained joy.

Bradfield manages to center himself again. "With all due respect sir, I was wondering if I could make a deal about your queen."

"A chance with my queen? Why on earth would I allow that?" There's a sly smile on those perfect lips. He's relishing this.

Bradfield's gained his balance again, and his cocky attitude has resurfaced. "I figured, since she's going to be stuck here with you for so long, she might need a bit of real company."

Lucifer's smile fades replaced by another scowl. Bradfield's made the fatal mistake of accusing Lucifer of being a less-than-passionate lover. From what I've experienced so far, that's a damn lie. But now he's set himself up for annihilation, and as annoying as he is, I don't want to step over a giant bloodstain every time I walk in here.

The asshole shrugs. "I only figured she might like a real man have a chance at her. Who knows how long it's been since she's had a good, long fuck. Maybe she'll actually enjoy-" He stops and stares at me.

I've unclipped another chain on my dress, my chest now nearly bursting out of the fabric.

Whoops. Silly me.

Lucifer turns to look at me, the first hints of a smile touching his lips. "Michelle!" he admonishes me sternly. 

I look at him, genuinely afraid I've gone too far with this game. 

He gives me a look of exasperation. "We have a guest! Control yourself a little." 

I drop my head and pout, convinced I'm screwed up. From the corner of my eye I catch him staring at me. We lock eyes for an instant, and he smiles softly. His gaze slips down to the third chain of my dress, then back to me. I catch his game and smile back, reaching down the play with thin metal hook cautiously.

He grins, then looks back at Bradfield. "Forgive her. She hasn't learned to control herself around others."

Bradfield shakes his head. "It's no trouble at all."

Lucifer's warm tone disintegrates. "For you it is." He rises from his chair, glaring down at the mortal below him. "You come into my house, insult me, upset my queen, then demand a night with her?"

Our adversary takes a step back. 

"You honestly thought that I would ever allow a maggot like you to even touch my queen?" he roars. "How dare you, you insignificant little piece of sewer shit!" 

Bradfield has stumbled backwards, nearly tripping over his own feet. He's staring at us, petrified with fear. Although it serves him right, I know Lucifer is nearly about to lose control and kill him. I rise up from my own chair and race toward him, catching his arm just as he starts to descend the stairs.

"Lucifer, don't!"

He turns to look at me, confused fury in his eyes. The fury is for Bradfield, the confusion is for me.

"He's a stupid young man," I try to calm the situation. "He's an idiot with an oversized ego and a tongue that isn't attached to his brain. He's insulted us, yes. But let this be a lesson to him so he can gain a few brain cells."

Lucifer's rage has eased a bit, and Bradfield has steadied himself again, grateful for my intervention.

"Let him go. He doesn't have to be killed just because he's pissed me off. I've dealt with hundreds of jerks in my life and you haven't killed any of them." I grip his arm a little tighter. "Please. Give him one more chance to knock a few of the rocks out of his head so he can learn."

Lucifer sighs and looks away fro a moment. "Fine. He can go."

"Thank you." I let go of his arm and lean into kiss his cheek. I turn to glare at Bradfield. "And you! The next time you come down here, have an actual deal for us instead of wasting our time with your pathetic insults. Go!"

He nods and scrambles backwards, racing out the main doors of the room and never looking back.

Lucifer pulls me back to our seats. He collapses into his, staring up at the ceiling, annoyance still marring his flawless face. I take my own seat and collapse into it, still reeling from having to save that jerk's ass. Still, the games we played with him were hilarious. Seeing his face when I undid that last chain was perfect.

I start laughing, cupping my face in my hands so I can muffle the sound. Lucifer stars laughing, too, a musical sound that resonates off the marble walls and wraps around my skin.

"So my little queen has a just hand!" he calls out. "Oh, Michelle, you're something else."

I lean back in my chair, barely able to breathe. "That was fun!"

"Yes, the cocky ones are always a joy to fuck with." His voice is lighter now and I'm relieved that he's calmed down.

"Oh!" I drop my hand to my sides and stare up at the ceiling. "I want to do that again! That was such a fun game!"

"Every day, my dear. There's one of them every day."

"And his face!" My laughter starts all over again.

"That was a cruel little trick you pulled." He looks over at me. "I don't know if he'll ever get that image of our tits out of his mind."

I smile back innocently. "Poor baby. And you had to watch, too."

He sighs and leans back in his chair. "I got a fantastic view."

"You're welcome," I grin.

He looks back at me, his eyes bright. "You keep those two top chains undone."

"Why would I ever put them back?" I ask. "It's way too hot here to ever have my dress fully closed."

He laughs again. "Good."

"What now," I sigh.

"We wait."

"For?" I'm curious. Why wait for anything? We rule the place don't we?

"Your presentation. You're going to be officially inaugurated tonight. The staff is finishing up the last few details now, so all we have to do is wait for a few hours and we can start the show."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 02



A flurry of nerves rushes through me. "What will I have to do?"

He shrugs. "Just recite a few coronation words and stand still so everyone can see you. I'll be presenting you, and no one is going to challenge me, so you don't have to do much."

A bubble of laughter escapes me. "Leyna might."

Lucifer shorts. "You have a point. Though there's not much she can do about it."

I lean forward in my seat, turning to stare at him. "You're sure?" 

My voice is shakier than usual, but for good reason. Leyna's rubbed me the wrong way since the day we met. She always looked like she was out to get me, even before my marriage to Lucifer was announced. If she's going to attend my coronation, I want a guarantee that she can't come after me.

Lucifer sits up straight in his chair and turns to stare at me. "I know what you're thinking. That woman is a man-eater if there ever was one. She's been after me for centuries."

Yeah, kinda figured that with the way she was flirting with you back there.

"So why haven't you ever taken her? She's gorgeous, powerful... God, Lucifer, you could do anything to her and she'd never complain." 

There's a mixture of jealousy, curiosity and protectiveness swirling inside me. I want to know why he's never taken her up on the offer; at the same time, I want to protect what is mine.

He shrugs. "She's just never appealed to me. None of those women have. Don't get me wrong, she is gorgeous, but she's not really my type."

Oh?

"And what is your type?" Me, please say me.

He smiles. "You. Someone innocent and sweet. Someone I can corrupt and make completely my own. You've got almost no experience here, Michelle. That's exactly what I want. I want to show you my world, to make you my queen, to have you whenever I feel like it."

Oh. Not the most flattering answer in the world, but at least it keeps Leyna off his radar.

"You're...welcome?" I chew my lip, unsure if there's even a reasonable answer to a statement like that.

He grins at me. "More than welcome."

I lean back in my chair, relieved. So he's not attracted to Lenya at all. That's good. Point number one to my team. "Anything you want to do for the next few hours?"

He's still for a moment, his brow creased in concentration. I stare at him silently, suddenly regretting my decision. He could say anything, maybe suggest we go for a swim in the boiling rivers below us or take a ride on one of those freaky-ass mine cart rides they have at carnivals. God, he could even ask me to sing!

Or...more sex, maybe?

I relax a little. Okay, so that wouldn't be too bad of an option. 

Suddenly, he launches himself from his seat, spinning around and grabbing my wrists. He jerks me out of my seat and starts to drag me down the steps. There's a wicked smile on his lips and a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"I take it you have an idea." I say as we stumble down the steps.

He grins at me. "I want a bath."

A bath? How random can your mind get?

"A bath," he calls out as we enter into the main hallway. 

"Seriously? A bath?" I ask.

He turns to me and smiles. "With you."

Ah, yes. Another chance to see me naked.

I'm dragged down the hall a lightening speed. The mass of demons milling about barely have time to dodge out of the way. They try to bow in respect, but we've flown past them by the time they dip their heads. I'm fairly sure Usain Bolt couldn't have caught up to us if he tried.

We reach our room in record time. Lucifer grabs the handle and throws the door open, nearly ripping it off its hinges. He pulls me inside and slams the door behind us. He slams his hands together once, and a flurry of my personal maids comes rushing in. They literally run through the walls and screech to a halt, staring at him with wide eyes.

"I said a bath!"

The girls take off, leaving us alone. Lucifer grabs me by the shoulders and spins me around. I can feel his fingers fly against my back as he rips the laces apart. He pulls the back of my dress away, pushing down on the shoulders so it slips off my skin. He ushers me out of my dress, picking the heaps of fabric up and tossing it on the bed. 

"Sire," one of the girls has returned. "Your bath is ready."

"Perfect. You may go." 

He steps forward and scoops me up in his arms. The action throws me off balance, and I wrap my arms around his neck to steady myself. He carries me across the room to another set of double doors. They're carved with swirling, twisting flames engulfing enormous oak trees. As we get closer, they swing open on their own, revealing Lucifer's private bathroom.

The bathroom is another work of art. The floor is made of grey marble interspaced with slabs of multicolored coral. The walls are marble as well, with panels of carved granite slabs mixed randomly within. There are no Grecian columns here, but towers of solid rock carved into the shapes of demons stretch up to an elaborately paneled glass ceiling. A massive plate-glass window stretches along the far wall, giving a lovely view of the Fire Pits below.

A lone tub stands in the middle of the room. Carved from a single slab of black onyx, it's large enough to hold three men. The fixtures are solid silver, and the carved feet of the tub have tiny silver claws imbedded in the rock. The tub itself is already filled with steaming water.

Hot damn! I could get used to this.

Lucifer walks over to the tub, holding me just inches away from the steamy surface. Gently, he lowers me, dipping me slowly into the water. It's almost heavenly. I groan softly as I sink in, leaning my head back against the rim.

Lucifer pulls his hands away, letting me float in the water. I hear the sharp snap of his zipper and the soft rustle of denim, feel the first gentle ripples in the water as he joins me. The water rolls around my skin as he settles in, sitting across from me and grinning like a madman. His wings flare out around the edge tub, the tips barely brushing the floor.

He lifts one of his hands, crooking a long finger at me. I smile and nearly have to swim across the enormous tub to reach him. His hands wrap around my hips and he pulls me into his lap. I feel his cock twitch against my thigh and it makes me jump. His hands slide up my back, pushing me forward as the climb. My breasts are crushed against his bare chest, and a flurry of delicious shivers races through me. I follow his lead and lean in. He mirrors me and tilts his head up, capturing my lips with his.

What follows is exactly what I've been craving: a good, long, eat-your-face-off make-out session. Our hands are everywhere at once, and I feel an insane desire to stay here for the next ten years. It's one hell of a combination: hot water, deep kissing, hands everywhere...mom would have fainted if she saw this.

Lucifer pulls away suddenly, grinning as he holds me close. "God damn, woman! You've got a fantastic rack one you."

I smile shyly. "Thank you. They're my pride and joy."

His grin turns wicked. "What are you?"

I shrug nonchalantly. "36D. Homegrown and silicone free."

"Fuck, I've scored." He cups my chin in one hands and stares into my eyes. "Leyna's only a 34C. You've beat her by a mile."

I smile proudly. I've beat Leyna in the boobs department, too. Michelle, two. Leyna, zero.

He chews his lip for a moment, and I can see the gears spinning in his head. "You have the perfect body for a titfuck." His eyes have gone misty.

I blush. "Seriously?"

He nods slowly. "Damn straight. You'd be perfect." His eyes flick up to me. "Interested?"

I pause, pondering the question. I've only ever watched a titfuck once, and it was in some crap porno movie. It looked amazingly fun, but I never thought I'd be any good. Of course, this was way before my hormones exploded and blessed me with the chest I have now. Back then, I looked like a damn boy. Still, the prospect always seemed exciting and new, something my rebellious teenage brain craved.

"Possibly," I murmur.

His eyes light up a bit. "Come here."

His hands slide up to my shoulders and he pulls me forward. I relax against him as our bodies are melded together, resting my head on his cool shoulder. His hands caress my back slowly, and I'm so comfortable here it's almost frightening

"Michelle, I have no doubt that you've heard a few tales of my less-than-spotless reputation," his voice is soft, almost strained. "You need to know that most of what you hear is true. I am the rebellious son who turned against his father and became the cruel, manipulative, vengeful tyrant your pastors know and love. I am ruthless, I am selfish, I am a lair."

I freeze, my heart nearly skipping a beat. He's bearing his soul – or what's left of it – to me. Knowing his past, it must be agonizing to admit his faults to another person. I stay quiet, not wanting to ruin what may actually be his confession.

"Contrary to what you may have been told, I do feel guilt. I feel remorse everyday for what I've done to my father and my brothers. I feel like shit every time I think back to the happier points in my existence, because I know I've ruined them." He takes a long ragged breath, and I can almost feel the tears that must be welling up inside him. 

"But I feel rejected. I've apologized endless times to my father, and he turns his back to me. My own brothers refuse to look at me, and it only deepens the wounds I already have. It seems like the more I try, the less they accept me."

I sigh softly and reach around to stroke his shoulders. My poor husband. Rejected by his own father and brothers for not adhering to one rule. They're more screwed up then my family.

"I suppose all that rejection left me bitter and angry. Angry enough to want to prove my dad wrong. To show him the humans were weaker and more volatile than us angels. So I became a tempter, a trickster, a stealer of souls to show him how flawed your race was. And I was right. You're very easily seduced by money, power and sex."

"Why are you telling me this?" I mumble against his skin.

He sighs. "You must understand. I never meant to become like this. I only did as an act of retribution for being cast aside. But I am the monster I have created, so I do my best to make sure I do my work well." He takes another shaky breath. "I am a liar and a trickster, but I will never lie or trick you, Michelle."

"Why not?"

He sighs. "Because you've given me a chance to prove myself. I need that, I need someone to stand beside me and help me when I fall. To help me stand up again and brush off the old dirt and bad blood that's clung to me for centuries. I need you. Hell, I'll risk it – I love you. And for that, I promise I'll do my best to be a good husband."

His soul session has rendered me speechless. To hear someone of such a dark, disgraceful caliber tell me about all the bad things the he's done and gone through...my heart actually aches for him.

I take a deep breath and center myself. Slowly, I push myself away from his tight embrace. I kneel up in his lap, staring at him and chewing my lips. He stares back, concern and pain in his golden eyes. I've never seen him like this, never imagined he could have an expression fill with so much fear and worry. God, he's an enigma.

I reach out and cup his face in my hands. "Listen to me. I do know your reputation, and I only know a few pieces of your life story. And I'm sure what I've been told has been watered down or simplified."

He gives a weak smile and nods.

"I'll be honest, I am scared of you. Of who you are and what you do for a living. I'm constantly pestered by thoughts that you'll turn against me or leave me for someone who's better than me or isn't human."

He shifts, rising up an inch, his eyes wild. "No, Michelle, I-"

I press my fingers to his lips and shake my head. "I'm still a little afraid of you, but I've been with you long enough to know you're not just anger and misery and hatred. You've got love and loyalty and empathy in you somewhere. It's been buried for a long time; you've covered it up with all your pain and anger, but it's there. Stuff like that never leaves."

He settles back against the tub, watching me silently with slightly warmer eyes.

I take another deep breath. "This wedding was never my choice. If I had my way, I'd be back in my room studying for finals and planning Kelsey's birthday with my friends. But I'm here with you, and I'm honestly willing to give you than chance you need. I'm willing to stay here with you and give you the support you need. I'm willing...I'm willing to try loving you for who you are if you're willing to do the same."

I exhale loudly and sit back in his lap. I've said my piece, so the ball's in his court now.

Lucifer's vibrant smile returns, he reaches out a hand and cups my cheek. "How did I get you?"

Relieved, I smile back and shrug. "By screwing over my mom, I guess."

He stares at me, offended. "I did not screw her over! She backed out!"

"That's not what she's going to say," I counter. 

His smile returns. "True. Your mother does have a habit of spinning the truth a bit."

An idea comes to my mind. "How long do we have until my ceremony?"

He pauses, thinking. "An hour or so."

Nodding, I slide off his lap and scoot back to the far edge of the tub. He watches me with dark, confused eyes. I respond with my own brand of a devilish smile. I crook my finger at him, beckoning him over. He laughs and obliges eagerly, crawling across the length of the tub towards me. I grin and spread my legs as he crawls closer, welcoming him as his icy body presses against mine.

He settles in against me, pressing his cool chest against my breasts. His dark wings flare out around the tub, cloaking us in half-shadow. He grins down at me, so painfully handsome and powerful it's hard to imagine I can call him mine. Smiling, I reach up and loop my arms around his shoulders, casually stroking the tender skin at the nape of his neck.

"We've got an hour." I slip down another inch and hook my knees over his hips. His cock presses hard against my inner thigh. "Make it good."

"Yes, ma'am." He bucks his hips forward, driving into me with all his might.

I tilt my head over the rim and gasp sharply. God, that feels good! I suddenly don't care if he's evil or manipulative. All I care about is how he feels against me, how his body manages to set mine on fire. I tighten my legs around his waist, preparing myself for the delicious onslaught that's coming.

He doesn't disappoint. He shifts into the motions immediately, slamming his hips against mine with brutal force. I cry out and squeeze my eyes shut, savoring every thrust and pull he has to offer. My hands slide to his shoulders and clamp down, holding him in place as he forces his way in.

Pleasure swirls in my head, making me almost giddy. I love this. I crave this. I never want this to stop. Oh, this is fantastic! Exactly how I'd pictured it in my fantasies. There's also a benefit to this kind of raw, savage sex. It's a great way to release a lot emotion tension while losing yourself. Of course, that's not the only reason I initiated this little game. I've been drooling over him for hours, and this is the perfect way to satisfy my ravenous libido.

A good, sharp thrust along the inner wall of my pussy send me reeling. He's found that perfect little target that send me spinning in circles, and I intend to milk this moment for all it's worth.

"Oh, God!" I say the word without thinking. "Yes, that's it! Right there! Ooh, right there!"

Above me, Lucifer laughs and tilts his hips an inch higher, driving his cock against me sweet spot. I cry out sharply, begging him to continue, pleading for him not to stop. He never does, and keeps that pace going until my bones start to melt and my minds starts spinning.

"Sire!" A deep, thunderous voice yells from outside the bathroom door.

No! Damn it, go away! Lucifer never falters, slamming into me despite the interruption. "What?"

"The queen's coronation is in forty minutes, sire."

"Leave!" He growls in annoyance. "Interrupting this for a fucking time check?"

I dig my fingers into his shoulders. "Doesn't...matter...don't stop."

"As you wish, my lady." He grins and quickens his pace.

I lose my breath for an instant; a thunderstorm of bliss blasts through me so hard it knocks me off balance. My grip on his shoulders slips a bit, and I have to claw at his skin to regain my equilibrium. Lucifer smiles at me and reaches down to grip the small of my back with one hand. He lifts my hips another inch, and another bolt of fire races up my spine.

Catching my balance again, I lean my head back over the rim and close my eyes, relishing in every thrust and pull he makes. I moan his name softly, and I feel a shiver run down my spine when he laughs in response. He lowers his lips to mine, inducing another round of ravenous kissing. I don't know how I was ever scared of this creature. He's a lover and a fighter. How could I ask for more?

He gives one final thrust and I'm lost, screaming into his mouth as my body tenses against him. A burst of fireworks explodes in my head, rendering me incoherent and oh-so-relaxed. I melt into the warm stone of the tub, warm, calm and damn satisfied. I want that again, but I'm too exhausted to ask.

Lucifer follows in my footsteps, giving one final thrust and burying his face in my neck. I can feel his muscles tighten under my fingers as he comes, spilling his seed inside my tiny, fragile body. I don't know how I'm able to take him. He's huge and thick as a damn tree trunk. This is the second time we've fucked and it takes almost no effort for my body to welcome his. I hope I never lose that skill.

Seconds later, he collapses on top of me, tearing our mouths apart so we can breathe. His cheek nuzzles my neck softly, and I respond by running my hands up and down his leanly muscled back. My fingertips glide over his smooth skin, feeling the rippling and twitching of the iron strength beneath. God, even here he's perfect.

His cool lips press against my neck. "That was fun."

"Yes, it was," I whisper. "I'd ask you to do it again, but I don't think we have time."

He sighs. "Unfortunately not. We need to get you dressed."

Can't I just go like this? Nobody's going to mind.

I know the answer, but I really don't feel like getting dressed all over again. I'm far more comfortable laying here with Lucifer. Honestly, I can't think of a time where I was ever more relaxed and content. I want to be here with him. I feel like I belong here. Maybe there's something to be said about soul mates...

A knock at the door startles me out of my musings.

"Sire! The queen is to be presented in fifteen minutes."

Lucifer sighs and pushes himself up, rolling his neck and glaring into space. "Damn it."

"I know." I lean my head back and stare at the ceiling.

He pulls away from me, releasing my body from his heavenly embrace, it's almost painful to let him go, but there's no time to argue. I have a presentation to make, and being late, even while being married to Lucifer, won't please anyone.

Reluctantly, he steps out of the bath and straightens himself, turning and extending his hand to me. I sigh again and take his hand, using him as a counterweight as I haul myself out.

He jerks his head towards the bedroom. "Come on." He's as annoyed as I am.

I nod and follow behind him. Idly, I wonder how we're going to be ready in time. My hair usually takes a good hour to dry, so even with a blow-dryer fifteen minutes won't do. I suppose we'll have to head out soaking wet and rosy-cheeked from our few minutes of play.

Won't that be subtle? I'll bet they'll never guess.

Absentmindedly, I run my hand through my hair and stop. It's nearly dry already! Even my body is starting to dry off. I look down at the floor, seeking any kind of answer. I find it. I watch one drop of water slide off my finger and onto the tile. It dissipates immediately into the marble, never leaving a trace of its existence behind.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 02



That is awesome.

The closer we get to the bedroom, the dryer we get, until there's not a drop left by the time we exit the bathroom. Lucifer makes a B-line for the bed, and I follow after him eagerly. I may not get to stay naked with him, but my peep-show dress with be more than enough to make me feel desirable.

He pulls my dress off the bed and turns to me, holding the lacings open so I can step in. I place my hand on his shoulder for balance as I slip into the fabric, grateful that he's so patient with my human clumsiness. I help pull the dress up, holding it in place while he laces me into the fabric. 

He sweeps my hair away from my face, letting it cascade down my back. "I've always liked it down. Makes you look less rigid and icy."

I scoff. "Icy and rigid my ass. I'm the sweetest, kindest thing you've ever met." He steps up behind me, looping on hand around my waist and the other cupping my chin. "And with a mouth to match," he whispers. 

I giggle. "You're welcome."

We're interrupted yet again. "Sire!" God damn. Go away already.

Lucifer growls behind me. "Yes, we're coming!"

He steps away slowly, his hands lingering on my waist for an instant. We're both very annoyed, but there's nothing we can do mow. My coronation starts in just a few minutes, so we need to haul ass to get me there on time.

Lucifer's icy hand grabs mine, gently pulling me towards the door. "Come on, your majesty," he winks. "Let's get you crowned."

"After you, your highness." I smile back.

I follow eagerly, holding onto his hand for dear life as we race out the door and towards my new beginning. Or my doom.

We race down the now empty hall, with Lucifer practically dragging me down the corridor. It might be easier for me to just let my feet slip and have him haul me the rest of the way, but my legs won't listen and I try to keep pace with him. We zip past the numerous door that line the hall. The doors of the foyer open just in time to let us in before slamming shut. Skidding to the right, we bolt through another set of doors and down yet another cavernous hall. We're moving so fast I'm surprised there isn't a line of fire behind us.

Near the end of the new hallway Lucifer starts to slow down, going from an Olympic sprint to a steady jog. I can keep up with him easily now, and I race beside him and match his pace.

He smiles sat me. "Ready?"

I swallow. "I guess."

He smiles wider. "You'll do fine."

The hallway dead-ends into a marble wall. On either side of us in another hallway, slimmer and darker than the ones we've just raced through. Lucifer slows his pace again to a leisurely walk and steers me into the left hall.

It's nearly pitch black in this hall; no sun-lit windows or welcoming guards to show us the way. The only light comes from the soft flicker of the sconces embedded into the marble. The lights make our shadows dance and sway as we walk, making it seem as if they don't really belong to us. At the end of the hall I can see a hulking guard demons standing beside another carved wooden door, but I can't make out the design. Beyond it, I can hear the growing chants of demons and damned souls as they await their new queen.

We stop just outside the enormous door. The chanting is as clear as crystal now: they want us, they want Lucifer, they want to see me. My heart is pounding so hard my ribs start to crack. My lungs have stopped working, and I have to shake myself to restart my breathing before I pass out. I've never been this nervous. True, I'm a teenage human girl about to be presented as the new queen of Hell to hoards of demons, but I've never felt this truly terrified in my life.

I can do this. I can do this. I can-

"You okay?"

I jump at the sound of Lucifer's voice. "Not really."

He smiles at me and brushes a stray strand of hair from my face. "You'll be just fine. Follow my lead and you'll get out of here in one royal piece."

I nod shakily and stare at the door. My fate – queen of the underworld and wife to Lucifer - lies just beyond that hulking mass of wood. At this moment, it feels more like a guillotine than a door.

He smiles at me one last time, and then turns to the guard and nods. The guard nods back and turns, grasping the handle of the door. He pulls it open, revealing a red velvet curtain behind it that blocks us from view. Trust my husband to spare no expense on theatrics.

Lucifer turns back to me and cups my face in his hands. "I go first. Taros here will motion when it's your turn."

I nod. "I'm nervous."

He nods back. "Good. I'd be terrified if you weren't."

He spins on his heels and strides through to door, pushing the velvet curtain aside and stepping through. There's a roar of cheers and screams as demons and damned souls praise and condemn their king. Lucifer starts to speak, his rich voice drowning out the roars of the crowd.

I can't hear what he's saying. My heartbeat is thundering in my ears, drowning out all sound. My breathing is faltering again, and I turn away from the door to collect my self. I do my best to take calm, even breaths, to slow my thinking and ease my twisting stomach. Slowly, my body acclimates to the shouting crowd and the idea of standing in front of demons. This really shouldn't be that hard or frightening. I've already held my ground with Bradfield, haven't I?

That bastard was more terrifying than mom on a panic bender. If I can handle him, I can handle this. 

I feel a soft tap on my shoulder. I turn to see taros staring at me expectantly. He steps back and motions toward the door, bowing his head respectfully. I nod and curtsey in response, the n turn and take tentative steps toward the curtain. I pause just before it, listening to my husband speak to the crowd and taking a few last calming breaths.

"I am ecstatic, elated actually, to introduce our new queen!" he roars to the crowd.

They cheer back at him, announcing their excitement.

"On your knees, worthless maggots, and hail your new queen!"

Taros gives me a gentle shove. I straighten my spine, square my shoulders and pause the edge of the curtain aside. I stride through the velvet shield, entering a world of celebration, wonder and pain.

I step onto an enormous white granite balcony, almost five feet wide and fifty feet long. The banister has numerous posts of marble carved into the shapes of various demons and succubae. To my right, Lucifer stands at the edge of the balcony, grinning g at me broadly and holding out his hand. I smile back and step forward, taking his hand as he leads me to face the waiting crowd.

Below me is the infamous Fire Pits, an endless desert of liquid fire rivers and screaming souls. A swarm of demons and succubae kneel on the banks of the rivers, staring up at me expectantly. They're seated accordingly, with the highest ranking demons and fallen archangels knelling closest to us. Behind them, the princes of Hell's many torture circles, followed by their children and the lower ranking demons. Kara and her lovers are in the fourth row, grinning up at me with true honest joy. Claire and her demons are in the row behind them, all giving me the same elated expression.

I smile back, relieved to see a few people I know here. I feel slightly less alone.

I pause suddenly, peering out into the crowd. Within the row of human servants, hiding amongst the virile beauties and lithe young men, is my mother. Dressed in rags and chained to iron hoops in the ground, she's taken one hell of a fall from her previous position as a member of royalty. On her arm, I see a brad emblazoned into her flesh, a twisting, swirling mark of black and gold that denotes a servant of Lucifer himself. 

I almost giggle at the irony. Two days ago, she marked her status as part of English royalty. Now, she kneels amongst other damned souls, doomed to serve the royals who live here. Man, karma's a bitch.

Lucifer turns to me, tapping my shoulder so I snap back to reality. I turn and face him, nearly getting lost in his infectious smile and bright eyes. He's so excited he's almost giddy. I'm certain that he'd be bouncing right now if it weren't for the formality of the occasion. I don't think I've ever seen anyone this happy, but with Lucifer especially, it's a wonderful sight.

"Michelle Harlowe," he grabs my hand a lifts it, pressing his palm to mine, "You now take on the role of the Hellion queen."

I nod. "Yes."

His brows rise an inch. "You're prepared to take on such a demanding, arduous task? Many human souls have passed through these gates, all thinking they could best me. All have failed. You think you can master such a role?"

I square my shoulders. "I can handle it."

"You have one last chance to turn away and renounce your duty here. Will you take that chance?"

I shake my head. "No. I will take my place as queen and rule as I see fit."

His grin has nearly split his face in half. "And so you shall."

He turns away again, leaving me standing completely still and staring blankly at him. He faces me again, holding a beautiful crown in his hands. It's made of solid black iron that twists and winds around itself to form the base. Pure gold leaf and multicolored jewels cover every inch of the black band, giving it some since of royal worth. Thirteen razor-sharp twisting spires rise from the knotted band, each nearly five inches in height and topped with a glittering black jewel.

Damn. Princess Kate, eat your heart out.

"Michelle Harlowe, I now crown you as the Hellion queen."

He lifts the crown and places it gently on top of my head. It's surprisingly heavy, but nothing I can't handle. I straighten my spine and smile at him, solidifying my choice.

He grins back and turns to the crowd. "On your feet, worthless pieces of shit! Show some respect you your queen!"

The mass of demons shifts as they stand, each inclining their head s in respect to their master and new queen. The succubae follow their lead, inclining their heads regally. I can see Leyna seething below me, her bright yellow eyes locked on mine. She looks like she's about to explode from rage, and I do my best to suppress my smile. Between me being Lucifer's female preference, my boobs and now my crown, I've beaten Layne three different ways and solidified myself as a worthy adversary. 

Human? Yes. Queen? Fuck yeah.

Lucifer grabs my hand and lifts it high, turning me so we can watch as our admirers cheer us on. Once again, I'm sure most of the applause is forced. Their lives are probably at stake here. If they don't perform well, Lucifer might have them tossed into the rivers. I smile at them, silently promising that I will try to treat them with as much respect and kindness as they deserve.

With one final cheer from the crowd, Lucifer takes my hand and gently pulls me through the curtain and out the door. Taros closes the door behind us, and we fly down the darkened hallway again. Lucifer's dragging me down the hall again, bursting through on room after another and practically leaving a trail of smoke behind us.

"What's the rush?" I call out. I don't understand. I'm queen. Why is he so hurried? 

He smiles at me over his shoulder. "You may have been crowned as queen, but we still have to solidify your status!"

I stare at him, confused. "Solidify my stat-"

My heart nearly skips a beat. I know that devilish grin. We're going back to bed for round...God, what round of sex are we on? Twenty? I don't care at the moment. All I care about is that we're heading back for another session of ravenous, animalistic sex.

I nearly burst out laughing and regain control of my feet. Lucifer's been running at an easy, steady pace, but the mention of sex has made my body become very impatient. Shifting gears from "Just been crowned" to "Time for bed", I kick on my afterburners and race ahead of him, grabbing his hand so he doesn't lose grip. As I burst forward, I catch a glimpse of him staring at me in shock.

I shoot forward, now almost dragging him behind me. "You promised me sex. Let's go!"

Musical laughter fills the hallway. "Michelle, have a little patience."

I shake my head. "Not for this! Let's go, you pussy tease! You're making my hormones pissed."

I hear his laughter again before I feel his hands on my skin. Swiftly and smoothly, he manages to slide his hands around me and lift my body off the ground, cradling me in his arms as he takes off down the hallway. I burst out laughing and loop my arms around his neck, kicking my feet up and lying in his arms as a flurry of dust is kicked up in our wake.

The door to our bedroom swings open milliseconds before we rush in, slamming shut in the same amount of time. Lucifer sets me down on the floor and quickly steps forward, throwing me off balance and forcing me to stumble backwards into the cool marble wall. He steps up and braces his hands against the wall, pinning me in place and preventing me from escaping.

As if I'd actually want to leave. I'm on fire now, my hormones raging deep inside my gut. I want him. No, I need him. My body has been craving this since our bath; the small flickers of flame buried themselves deep inside my head, just waiting to be reborn. They got their wish. My breathing heavy, I launch myself at him and wrap my arms around his shoulders, holding myself in place as his arms slip around me and we start another session of eating each other's faces off.

It's strange, but I honestly love being kissed like this. It's wild and passionate and unrestrained, like neither of us care about the world around us. A stampede of demonic elephants could charge through our room and we'd never notice.

Icy fingers starts to undo the laces at my back, pulling the velvet threads apart and letting me breathe. I answer back by skimming my hands down the taught lines of his back to the edge of his jeans. I slip my fingers inside the bad, tracing them around to the front and slowly begin to undo his pants.

I fold the edges of his fly over and slip my hands beneath the soft denim of his pants. My fingers glide over the sharp lines of his muscled abdomen. In a moment of pure lust-fueled courage, I slip my fingers lower, following his treasure trail as far as I can go until my fingers are stopped by his tight jeans. Lucifer moans into my mouth and bucks his hips against me. I stifle a laugh and kiss him harder. Knowing I can turn him on like this is one hell of an ego boost.

Finally, his fingers undo the last of my dress laces. His hands slide to my shoulders and push the fabric away from my skin. It pools on the floor as Lucifer picks me up and carries me over to our bed. I cling to his shoulders, hooking my legs over his lean hips. Through it all, our kiss never breaks. It slows, but our lips never separate and our breaths start to coalesce as one. I inhale as he exhales, as if the two of us have become one person in two bodies.

The cool sheets caress my back as he leans forward to lay me down. He pulls his hands away from me just long enough to slide his pants over his hips. His hands return soon enough, stroking and exploring every inch of me. I mirror him, running my palms over the lean muscles in his back.

In some rational part of my mind, it feels strange to be kissing and touching this dark, broken fallen angel so passionately. But my irrational heart and body want nothing more. I feel so comfortable lying beneath him, his enormous weight above me, his hands all over me. I feel like more than just his queen or wife. I feel linked, as if by fate we were draw together and connected like this. It's how my heart feels. And it feels good.

Shit...I love him.

It's a blast of dynamite to my once unlovable ego. What was so strong and impassive has melted away and freed the warmth and passion hidden within. I do love him, and he's mine to love all I want. This cold, dark, hollow creature is mine to hold and love and cherish. And I will. I swear I will. I'll treat him like the king he is. Like the ruler his is. Like the lover he is.

He shifts forward an inch, rubbing his stiff erection against my thing. I smile against his lips and arch my hips, signaling that I have no issues with whatever he wants. He smiles against my mouth, and angles his hips against mine, his cock pressing against my sex. My fingers dig into his skin, and I can barely hold back my excitement. Finally! After all those interruptions in the bath, I need him to relieve me of all this pent-up energy.

He doesn't disappoint. He takes aim and drives in harder then ever before. It's wonderful, a burst of fire that flies through my veins and melts my bones. My heart is racing and my body rejoicing. I imagine him driving into me like a wildman and sending me high out of Earth's orbit. 

He doesn't go berserk. Instead, he pulls back slowly, leaving me slightly confused and starving for attention. He gives another brutal thrust into me, and more delicious fire flows into my veins. Again he pulls away slowly, forcing me to feel every inch of his cock as it drags against the walls of my pussy. It feels beyond incredible, and I shiver beneath him.

His slow game is torturous and wonderful at once. It's steady and even, without any hurried franticness or unnecessarily quick finishes. It's the epitome of slow and steady, and it's all I've ever wanted. If I could choose one way to send the rest of my life, this would be it.

Somehow, I manage to retain most of my thinking mend. I decided that while his new sex trick is wonderful, I feel distant from him. Gently, I pull at his shoulders, trying to coax him down to me. He comes easily, his arms collapsing under him as his body settles against mine. He's icy cold, solid as a rock and heavy, but nothing I would ever sacrifice. I can still breathe easily against him, and the feel of his chilled skin against my own is heavenly.

Cautiously, I pull my mouth away from his, tilting my head back and gasping for air. My arms encircle his back as he grinds against me. I accidentally dig my fingers in too far and he bucks hard against me, making me lose my breath for a moment. It feels so good I contemplate doing it again. No, his steady, knowing pace feels much better in the long run. I run my fingers over where I clawed him, soothing his cool skin. He responds my nipping my neck and drawing a soft groan from my throat.

Despite his slowness, my body responds quickly. There's already a bonfire burning in my belly, and it's just a matter of time before it explodes. I close my eyes and hold on, biting my lip as more bursts of fire explode inside me. Honestly, I feel like I should be getting arrested. Pleasure like this should be illegal.

My body erupts before I'm ready, but it's not disappointing. It's a slow burn, coursing through my veins one inch at a time. I bit down on my lip as the fuse burns, then disintegrates. There's no wild screams, no reckless clawing at skin. My body tightens around him as I gasp silently feeling a rush of power and life flow through me, rendering me speechless for an instant. It's beyond beautiful, and I want to lie back and roll around in this feeling forever.

Above me, Lucifer tenses. He's hushed as well, only letting out a soft groan as he climaxes. I feel the gallons of his seed flow into me, filling me to the brim and solidifying our bond. King and queen, master and mistress, we're bound together in this endless circle of damned souls and dark demons. Just us, and no one else.

He collapses on top of me, his breathing slow but strained. I giggle softly and run my hands over his back, soothing his chilled skin and thanking him for such a wonderful gift. His hands slide under my back and hold me flush against him.

"That was good. Different, but good." I whisper.

He laughs against my neck. "I'm glad you approve."





The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 02



I nuzzle his soft hair. "Always."

"Michelle."

"Hmm?"

"Thank you."

I giggle again. "Don't you worry your pretty little head. I'll be right here whenever you need me."

His arms tighten around me. "Promise me you won't leave."

I scoff. "Like I have a choice?"

He laughs again. "Touché."

He sighs and unwinds his arms from my waist, pushing himself up away from me. I stare up at him and smile softly, unbelievably glad that I get to call him mine. Angelina can keep Brad for all I care. I have my own dark angel to sleep with.

Smiling down at me, Lucifer rolls over and slides off the bed, standing up and making his way back over to armoire. I push myself up onto my elbows, silently admiring his ass as he walks. 

He'd look fantastic on a runway.

He flings open the doors, rummaging through the racks of clothing once more. I wonder what he could possibly be looking for. Another sexy dress, maybe? Or a tantalizing corset? My mind spins with wicked possibilities, and I can hardly wait to see what he picks.

"Ah! Here we are!"

He straightens and kicks the doors closed as he turns back to me. He carries an elaborately carved black oak box in his hands. Black and red jewels are imbedded in the deep cuts of the box, and a small silver latch keeps whatever is inside from flying out.

What's this?

He takes a seat next to me, setting the box down on the bed between us. I watch him carefully, slightly concerned yet fascinated as to what this box is for. He grins and reaches forward, undoing the latch and lifting the lid.

Inside, rows and rows of tiny metal rings and studs cover a rich black satin lining. Gold, silver, platinum, even steel hoops are artfully separated according to color, size ad design. Some of the studs are solid metal. Others have small jewels attached to them by chains. Still others have a small gemstone at the very tip. They're all beautiful, but so confusing.

"What's all this?" I look up at him with questioning eyes.

There's a dark smile on his lips, and his eyes are full of mischief and malice. His evil smile never falters for an instant, a detail that suddenly makes me nervous. I pull back an inch, not frightened that he'll hurt me but of what might be going on in that twisted, damaged head of his. This is, after all, Lucifer. He could do anything.

"Now then, my queen," his grin almost splits his face in two. "About those nipple rings..."

* * *

And that's chapter 2. It's long, but there are a lot of ideas going through my mind and I need someone to dump them on. Congratulations, I've picked you. I hope you like them.

Disclaimer: I am a current college student, which means I must deal with an endless supply of exams, papers and lectures for the next few months. I apologize if I take a long time to type out some chapters, but I promise I'm doing the best I can. Have patience, children. Chapter 3 will be out as soon as I can type it.



The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



Chapter 3: Major Bitches and Body Switches

I stare at him in shock, my jaw smashing through the bed and denting the floor. Nipple piercings? Now? I've just been crowned as his queen, seen my mother kneeling before me in rags, and recovered from a good session of slow, sweet lovemaking. And he wants to do this now? I sigh. I love Lucifer, I do, but I will never understand this man...creature...thing that he is.

Taking a deep, ragged breath, I stare him in his bright gold eyes. "Really?"

He grins. "Yep."

"Why now?"

He shrugs. "Why not?"

I can't think of a good answer, but I'm apprehensive nonetheless. I raise my arms against my chest, covering what I can of my breasts. I start chewing my lip out of nervousness, my heart rate starting to go berserk.

Lucifer frowns at me, concerned. "Michelle."

"I don't know," I manage to whisper. "I don't like pain. I got my ears pierced when I was twelve and I screamed like a banshee."

That makes him pull away and think of a response. "It won't be that bad. It'll only hurt for a second."

My eyes flick down to the box of hoops and studs. "I'm nervous."

He offers me a small smile. "You know you get to pierce me, too."

I stop chewing my lip and cock my head slightly. That does make me feel a little better. If I get to give him a few piercings as well, then at least it's fair. I won't suffer alone.

"We could have them engraved." His grin is almost contagious.

Despite my apprehension, I can't help but laugh. "What? Like have our initials in the studs?"

He smiles and nods. "If you'd like. Might help with keeping other people's hands off our property."

I shake my head and scoff. "Lucifer, the only way Leyna is ever going to leave you alone is if you kill her or have 'Property of Michelle' tattooed on your ass."

He thinks for a minute. "I like the engraved piercings instead."

"Only because you get to manhandle my boobs," I counter.

He grins again. "Damn straight."

I smile and roll my eyes. He's certainly charismatic, almost impossibly so. He could convince the pope to lose his virginity or a demon to convert to Catholicism. I can understand why so many people fear him: his influence on the human soul is terrifying. And now, even as his queen, some of that charisma is starting to get to me.

I take a deep breath. "If that's really what you want to do..."

He nods. "Think of it as a wedding present."

"For whom? You or me?" I eye him cautiously.

"Both of us." He scoots closer, pushing the box of metal aside so his thigh touches mine. His eyes stare into mine, almost burning my retinas. "I promise to make you feel better once they're in."

I stare at him. "How?"

His smile turns wicked. "What's better than a warm tongue on a tender nipple?"

I let out an exasperated laugh. "You're hopeless."

"And?" He leans I close, his nose brushing mine.

"And you're crazy." I mirror him, pushing forward until our lips touch.

"And?" His mouth meets mine, doling out soft, tender kisses that make me shiver.

"And you owe me for this," I whisper against his mouth.

"Now or after?"

I pause, holding back on my end of the kiss while I think. "Later. It'll take what's left of the edge off."

He halts his delicious kissing and smiles against my lips. "Deal."

He pulls away and reaches over to grab the small box of studs and hoops. He slides it between us, holding it open for me to see our choices.

"Now...what'll it be?"

I stare at the assortment of tiny metal piercings, excited yet totally lost. I don't know which to choose. There are plain metal hoops and studs, barbells with small glass designs on the end, carved bone gauges and an array of small sparkling gemstones that can be attached to anything in the box. There are so many choices I can't decide what to have shoved into me.

A flashback races through my mind: my dream. My nipples pierced with small gold hoops, my belly pierced with a gold barbell. Each has a tiny black gem that dangles from delicate gold chains.

Alright. I guess we'll do that.

"Gold hoops," I whisper.

Lucifer's eyes flick to me. "Following your dream?"

I stare back, slightly stunned but elated. He remembered my dream and knows exactly what I'm planning. That's more than mom has ever done for me.

I nod. "Yeah."

"You know we don't have to follow your dream exactly," he nudges my hand. "You can do this any way you want."

I shake my head. "It kind of feels like that dream meant something, like that's what I'm supposed to have. Like my mind was trying to tell me something. A guarantee or a premonition. And if really that's the case, I'm not in the mood to tempt fate."

He laughs. "Alright then. If that will make you feel better about this, we'll copy your dream. Now, what else was there...Oh, yes! There was a belly piercing."

Damn. Someone's got a good memory.

Lucifer digs around the box and pulls out two small matching hoops and a gold barbell. He holds his hand out and lets me take the. They're cool to the touch and heavy, but nothing that would cause my much discomfort.

He sits back, staring at the box. "We're missing something."

I nod. "Black stones."

He looks ready to smack himself. He sighs and digs through the box again, producing three tiny faceted stones attached to thin gold chains. He places them in my hand and sits back, watching me.

"What?" My voice is shaky, almost nervous.

He glances down at the box. "Choose."

I cock my head in confusion. "Choose what?"

"We had a deal. We pierce each other. You have yours. Pick mine."

Oh boy.

I take a deep breath and stare down at the box, scanning through the endless menagerie of metal pieces. Once again, I'm stuck. What piercing could possibly befit the ruler of Hell? I immediately decide against any gemstones, gauges or pieces that are horrifically girly. My gut tells me he needs something manly, something sturdy and rough. Something that will solidify his status as a male...A male with a nipple piercing.

I scan through the box one last time, and thankfully, my eye catches something worthy of being attached to Lucifer's otherworldly body. It's a thick hoop of black metal, nearly an inch in diameter and covered in small spikes. I reach down and grasp it, holding it gently in my palm. It's heavy, but not so much that he'll be uncomfortable. Swallowing loudly, I look up at Lucifer and hand him my selection.

He cradles it in his palm and smiles at me. "Quite a masculine choice."

I shrug. "I didn't think a barbell with pink glass hearts would fit you."

"Really? I think it would have been a perfect match," he teases.

I smile a little. At least he's in good humor for this. I'd hate to have him coming at me with a nipple ring on a bad day.

"Who wants to go first?" His eyes are alive with excitement.

My gut clenches instinctively. I'm not going first. I'm not sure if I even want to do this.

"Michelle?" He grins viciously.

I shake my head frantically. As much as I appreciate his enthusiasm, I'll respectfully pass on being first.

He nods. "Oh, I think so."

I shake my head again, scooting back an inch.

He sighs, but his smile never fades. "Do I have to pin you down for this?"

Maybe.

I shake my head. "No. I just... Alright."

His eyes soften a bit. "Michelle, if you're really that scared-"

I force a smile and shake my head. "I'll be fine. I live in a dark, fiery underworld filled with demons and tortured souls. I need to get over my anxiety if I'm ever going to survive here."

His smile returns. "Good girl."

He turns and digs through the box, finally pulling out the longest, sharpest, most terrifying needle ever created. It's pure silver and carved with the intricate markings that make up the demonic tongue. It's beautiful, but horrifyingly sinister. And it's going to poke me.

Lucifer pushes the box aside and shifts closer to me. He holds up the needle, the shining tip glinting right in front of my eyes. He smiles and blows on it gently. The silver starts to glow bright red. I swallow loudly, my gut spinning itself into so many knots that the makers of the Twister game would be amazed.

His smile never waivers. "Ready?"

Not really, but I'm here.

I nod despite my growing panic. I'm terrified, but I know if I don't plant my feet and grit my teeth, he'll probably see me as a weak queen who has no business ruling here. I've already admitted to myself that I somehow love him, so being cast aside for being scared -- and possibly being supplanted by Leyna -- is not an option. I'll have to bite the bullet on this one and cry myself to sleep later.

He reaches out and plucks one of the gold rings from my palm. He inches closer, folding his legs across the bed. With one hand, he reaches out and wraps his arm around my waist, pulling me forward and into his lap. Fisting my hand around the other piercings, I loop my arms around his neck and hold on tight.

This is gonna hurt, this is gonna hurt, this is gonna-

"Hold still. This will only sting for a second."

I nod and tighten my grip. My heart is racing, my lungs have ceased and my thoughts have stopped. He's all the stability I have left.

He holds me close against him, angling me back a bit so he has a good view of what he's doing. I hope he knows what he's doing as well. God forbid this is his first time and I end up with more holes than a block of Swiss cheese.

He raises the needle to my nipple and I recoil a millimeter. I can feel the heat radiating off the metal and my stomach starts to twist.

"Deep breath." He moves the needle a hair's breadth closer.

I nod and force my lungs back to work, inhaling a long breath just as he presses the needle's tip against my nipple and pierces my skin.

He's right. The pain only last a second, but it's the longest, most agonizing second of my life. I manage to clamp my jaw shut, but streams of tears replace my screaming. I whimper once as the needle passes through my skin, and again when Lucifer slides the cool metal of the ring through the fresh hole. I dig my fingers into his shoulders, holding on for deal life as my body is marked as his.

A heartbeat later, the pain has lessened. I still wince when a slight breeze from his breathing brushes against my nipple, but it's no where near the pain I had before. This is bearable...barely.

"Ow," I whisper, wincing slightly.

Lucifer's bright eyes flick up to me. "Are you alright?"

I take a long breath, exhaling slowly. "Mostly. A little sore and freaked out of my mind, but I'm okay."

He smiles. "My poor sweet queen. Here, let me sooth your wound."

Moving the still-glowing needle away from my skin, he leans in and wraps his lips around my nipple. Heat and pain is replaced by cold and numbness. His tongue gently paints circles around my wounded nub, soothing my aching body and reigniting the fire in my belly. I won't lie, his mouth feels damn good. It's cool and soft and everything I need right now. He's more than just an extremely experience kisser; those lips might save my life one day. Or at least heal me when I'm accidentally pierced by an arrow or something.

He pulls away too soon, but he's done his job. The pain his disappeared from my skin; my nipple, which was swollen and red from the piercing, is now back to it's regular rosy pink. I still miss his mouth on me, but I'm relieved to be healed of my injury.

Looking down, I inspect the damage. A tiny gold ring, no more than half an inch in diameter, loops through my skin. Below it, a thin strand of gold chain connects it to a tiny black faceted gemstone. I sigh and smile a bit. It's was painful, but worth it. It's a lovely piece, exactly like my dream, so I feel better about having it in me. That, and it also makes me feel damn sexy.

"Better?" Lucifer's tone is playful and inquisitive.

I lean forward, pressing my newly bejeweled breast against his chest. "A little. I'm still sore."

Come on! Again! Please again!

He laughs and angles his head to kiss me. "Have patience. Let's get this next one in and I'll give you more attention."

I groan and lean back, sulking slightly. I pout at him, silently willing him to change his mind and launch himself at me.

God, what's wrong with me. Am I five?

He crooks his finger at me. "Two more and you're done."

I sigh and pull back my pout. Begging won't work here, but compliance will. The faster we finish this off, the sooner we can go back to destroying the bed. I reposition my grip on his shoulders and straighten my spine. He brings the needle back and picks up the second small hoop. Although my gut clenches again, it's nowhere near the anxiety I felt before. I've survived nipple ring number one, so number two should be a bit easier.

He moves faster this time. Instead of going slow so I have time to prepare, Lucifer gives me one second of soul-searching before running the needle through my other virgin breast. It hurts, but my body's now accustomed to the pain, so I wince instead of crying. I'm also holding my self stiller than before, which means ring number two goes in easier and I don't have to strain my body as much.

Once the ring is in, I relax a bit and exhale slowly. My other nipple now matches my first with its tiny gold ring and small black jewel. They're quite beautiful, these tiny little gems that adorn my body. I feel like I'm having ornaments stuck into my skin, like some horrifically perverted version of a Christmas tree. I love it, though. I feel sexy and free, as if this is my rebellion against my mother.

I'm still a little sore, and I intend to be soothed as soon as possible.

Lucifer does exactly what he's supposed to, pulling the needle aside and leaning in to ease the throbbing in my breast. I have a plan for him; he's not pulling away so soon this round.

His lips wrap around my nipple and I moan softly. As evil and tempting as he is, he really shouldn't feel this good. Nothing should feel this good, yet here I am, wrapped in the arms of a fallen angel getting my rocks off with him suckling my breast. I've lost my damn mind and I don't care.

As he continues to lave my tender skin, I manage to claw back some of my sanity so I can move. I reach around his neck and tread my fingers into his soft, messy hair, pulling him close and holding him in place. He's startled slightly and his fingers dig into the bedding, trying to push away. I hold him steady, throwing my head back and closing my eyes so I can revel in the prolonged sensation of his mouth on my skin.

Michelle.

I freeze, my breath halting in my throat. That's not my thought voice. It's deeper, darker, slightly annoyed. My gut clenches again, a small spark of fear rocketing up my spine.

Sorry.

I untangle my hands from his hair and lean away, giving him back his freedom and relinquishing any control I have over my own pleasure. He sits back and stares at me with hollow eyes, his brows slightly creased, his lips turned down in a frown. He's upset, all because I wanted more and had the balls to take it.

I turn and stare at the wall, scowling at the stone. I do love him, and I'm honestly trying to have patience, but it's becoming increasingly difficult to deal with his controlling, aggressive attitude. I shouldn't be surprised, but I am annoyed. He's had a shit life and dealt with some fucked-up circumstances, but he has the mind of a self-centered teenager.

He sighs, almost exasperated. "Michelle."

I glance at him, still glowering in the wake of his less-than-gentlemanly silent scolding.

His eyes have softened a bit, becoming a bit more apologetic. "I just need you to relax, alright? If you try to push me down a more sexual street, I'll end up slamming you into the bed and we'll never get this done. I need you to stay still so I can concentrate and not accidentally scar you. Once we're finished, we can destroy the bed."

I clam down a bit. He's not mad, just frustrated. He's got good logic, though. The more I try to nudge him away from finishing this piercing session, the less focus he'll have and the more likely he might make a mistake and harm me. I nod and turn back to face him, looping my arms around his neck one last time.

He takes the small gold barbell from my palm, smiling at me. "Last one, then it's my turn. After that, we can trash the room."

I nod, my smile returning. Secretly, I look forward to having a go at this. Watching his reaction to me shoving a needle into his skin should be very entertaining.

"Lean back a bit."

I nod and grip his shoulders as I slowly lean my body back, giving him access to my torso. Once again, the heat from the needle pulses against my skin, just enough to let me know it's there. I take a deep breath and squeeze my eyes shut, jerking slightly when the needle pierces my belly. Again, the pain only lasts for a second, and the cool metal of the piercing helps sooth my skin. Lucifer's tongue doesn't magically appear to ease the burn, but his icy fingers do the job just fine.

A minute later, I've caught my breath and have pulled myself back up. I don't look down at my stomach to see the piercing, but I know it's there. I've got three piercings altogether: one in each nipple and one in my belly, each with a small black gem. Exactly like my dream. I'm now marked as Lucifer's queen, a bit like having a "Property of..." tattoo on my skin. These are far more scintillating, however, and much more fun.

If Leyna ever tries to make a move on Lucifer, I can just pull down the top of my dress and shut her up.

Lucifer smiles at me. "Okay, you're done. Was that really so bad?"

I sigh and roll my eyes. "No."

"Good." He gently lifts me away from his body and hands me the needle. "My turn."

Shit. How am I...I don't know...

Hesitantly, I take the needle from him. Although glowing red, it's cool to the touch and easily handled. A clever trick, but something I'd expected. He'd never hand me a truly hot needle and allow me to burn myself. I'd slap him.

I take a deep breath and steady myself, rolling the spiked ring I've chosen for him between my fingers. I don't know why he's allowed me to do this. I'm no seamstress-I've never even sewn a button - and I've certainly never jammed a needle into anyone's skin. He's risking serious bodily harm with me doing this, but if it's what he wants, I suppose I'll have to do it.

"Okay," I manage to center myself. "Hold still."

He smiles and straightens his spine, holding perfectly still so I have a good shot. "Don't scar me."

I give a nervous laugh. "No promises."

I take one last breath and hold the needle close to his skin, aiming the tip at his nipple. I'm shaking slightly, throwing my aim off a bit, but I manage to pull my nerves together. I don't want to mess this up and accidentally mar that gorgeous skin of his. I'd never forgive myself.

Shoving my anxiety aside, I focus my gaze on his skin and quickly force the needle through his flesh. Lucifer gives a sharp groan, squeezing his eyes shut and gritting his teeth. Panicking but still clear-headed, I pull the needle away and manage to slide the ring into the fresh hole and screw it closed.

There.

I take a slow breath and set the now-cooled needle into the box of rings and studs, relieved that I managed to pierce him without doing any unnecessary damage. We're both fine, albeit a little rattled.

I look at my body, now full of metal and stones, then back to his. We've marked each other as our own, alerting others to the fact that we've been claimed by another and are unavailable. He is mine and I am his.

Lucifer glances down at his chest, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Not bad. You did a clean job."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



"Thanks," I offer a slight smile.

"No blood or anything." His eyes flick to me. "I'm impressed."

I pause for a moment, suddenly curious. "What color is your blood?"

His smile turns sly. "What do you think?"

I shrug. "It can't be red. You're not mortal. And the old Greek gods were supposed to bleed gold and silver. So...maybe black?"

"Good girl." He leans in and kisses me - a slow, burning kiss that sets my skin on fire and starts to melt my bones. "Smarter than your mother gives you credit for."

Gently, I lean back onto the bed as Lucifer crawls forward with me. His chest presses against my breasts, and the chill of his skin numbs any lingering pain from the rings. My back presses against the soft bedding, and I'm pinned under my husband's weight. I'm trapped between a warm bed and a soft body and have no way of escaping.

How I despise my cruel, undeserved fate.

My arms automatically loop around his neck and pull him close as our kiss deepens. I run my hands down the length of his back, feeling the lean muscles hidden just under the skin. It's amazing that so much strength can be held in such an unassuming body. He's nothing like the muscle-bound juice heads that compete in body building competitions; he's much leaner and less testosterone-fueled. But even taking away his immortality and supernatural strength, he could punch through a wall of rock with less effort.

Sandwiched together, both of our bodies kick into autopilot and let our baser instincts do the talking. His hand slides down the length of my torso and over my hip, stopping at mid-thigh and slipping under my leg. He lifts my leg high, hooking my knee over his hipbone so we're locked together.

Our kiss has deepened to a level beyond normal passion, and another round of eat-your-face-off kissing has started. It's amazing how close we've gotten in a matter of days. Lucifer spilled his soul -- what's left of it, anyway -- to me in the bath, and now we've personally marked each other with the metal that now accents our skin. It must be incredibly difficult for him to get this emotionally close to anyone, but its progress. A few more days and I might attempt a striptease if he proves himself.

Stop. Destroy that idea this instant. A striptease? As if I can dance?

My logical voice tries to dissuade me from attempting the impossible -- dancing well enough not to embarrass myself -- but my rebellious spirit has a death grip on the challenge and won't let go. I've made my decision. Good behavior on Lucifer's part equates to a striptease from me. It sound incredibly fair since we'll both be out of our comfort zones, and we both might enjoy seeing my parade around in a lace thong trying my best to seduce him.

Hell, if I can get him to fuck me seconds after he spilled his heart in the bathtub, I can do anything.

Our embrace lasts far longer than expected, but neither of us cares. We should have started tearing the bed apart about five minutes ago, but it's wonderful to just lay here and hold each other. I chalk it up as another small victory in making him a little more open. I've discovered the more intimate we are, the more honest and warm he becomes. That's really good news; I can use the idea of making him more trusting and open as an excuse to drag him to bed five times a day.

A knock at the door startles us out of our embrace. I pull away, scrambling to the edge of the bed and pulling the sheets to my chest. I may be queen of the underworld, but my body is for my husband's eyes only. Lucifer himself groans, scowling at the wall for a moment before pushing himself up.

"What?" he snaps.

"Sire. We've brought the queen's new servant as you requested."

New servant?

Lucifer's eyes brighten instantly. "Perfect! Bring her in!" He turns to me, a wicked smile sharpening his features. "I have a gift for you."

I stare at him, confused and curious. "A gift?"

He nods. "Think of it as a wedding present."

I swallow loudly. This can't be good.

There's a commotion outside. I can hear the deep voices of demons mixed with a higher, more fragile voice of a woman. My heart clenches a little. The poor girl. I must be getting a new arrival that has to pay off a debt. I sigh and stand, tossing the sheets aside and turning to stare at the door. Lucifer disappears from my line of sight for a second, then returns carrying a beautifully embroidered black satin robe. I shrug it on quickly, pulling the tie at the waist and knotting it tightly. The last thing I need is one of my newly pierced boobs to pop out while this girl is being hauled in to begin her punishment.

A knock at the door signals that our company has arrived. Lucifer turns to me and smiles, then stares at the door and nods. It swings open of its own accord, revealing two massive demons standing outside. They step in quickly, dragging my new servant behind them. Her head is down and her body covered with filthy rags, hiding her from view. The demons pause a few feet in front of us and shove the woman to the floor. She goes willingly, falling to her hands and knees and hanging her head. Stands of short sandy blond hair fall in front on her face, shielding her from my eyes.

Lucifer nods again. "Stay. She'll need to be escorted to her quarters after she's introduced to the queen."

The demons nod and step back a bit, giving us room to maneuver.

Lucifer steps up to the woman, stopping just inches in front of her hands. "I'd hope you have some idea of why you're here."

The woman nods, her blond hair moving slightly. "Yes."

Lucifer starts to slowly circle the woman. "And why are you here?"

The woman is shaking slightly. "I-I had made a deal with you and backed out at the last minute."

I'm slightly stunned. She sounds much older that I'd expected. I was imagining some nubile teenager who'd sold her soul to become popular, not a middle-aged woman who'd weaseled out on a deal.

My breathing stops. Dirty blond hair. Middle-aged. Backed out of a deal at the last minute.

Oh no.

My stomach completes a double backflip. I'm silently praying that my instincts are horribly wrong and it's simply a woman who looks like my mother. But somewhere deep inside of me, I know my hopes are useless. What I'm looking at is the final product of my mother's endless dealings and manipulations. All those years of using and abusing people have finally caught up to her.

"Lift your head," Lucifer snaps. "Do not be rude to your queen."

The woman nods and slowly raises her head. A woman in her mid-forties with a round face and pin-straight blond hair peers up at me. Thin-lipped and well tanned, her emerald green eyes stare up at me with a mixture of fear and apology.

I take a long, slow breath, exhaling loudly. My mother, the woman who had tried and failed to raise me for nineteen years, has become my personal servant. Our roles have been reversed, with me now being completely in charge and her being subservient to me. Dear God, how do I handle this?

It's ironic, really. She spends all her life dreaming of becoming a part of royalty - even selling her soul and bartering off her daughter to attain that dream -- only to end up serving under a queen. Karma can be a real a bitch sometimes, but I never question her.

I take another slow breath. All the years of anger and rebellion begin to bubble to the surface, making my new position all the more perilous. She's done so much harm to so many people that I'm fairly justified in smacking her around as much as I want. Besides, I'm queen. No one would challenge me if I did. In the underworld, it would actually be expected that I did torture her and make her pay.

But none of that is really me. Unlike my mother, I get no satisfaction or personal gain from using or harming others. Unless it was a dire situation where harming her was the only way to save my mother, I could never bring myself to hurt her, no matter how much she deserves it. I shove down all the anger and resentment I feel towards her and let my rational mind step up to the plate instead.

"What happened to Richard?" My voice is soft but fueled with anger. If she's gotten him or my step-brothers hurt, I'll explode.

Relief washes over her face. "He's fine. So are Daniel and Marcus."

I'm relieved, too. At least they're safe. Of out entire family, they came out unscathed and alive. They may have lost a sister and a wife, but they're okay.

"Where are they?" I'm slightly calmer, but no less pissed.

"At home." Her voice is soft, nervous.

I nod, turning away to avoid eye contact. I'm excited to know that the rest of my family is safe, but I'm still pissed at my mother. I'll be honest, I do get a small amount of satisfaction knowing she's finally gotten her comeuppance. It's slightly refreshing to see a person who's done so much damage and been so self-serving have her plans blow up in her face. But, again, I have no desire to shove her around and humiliate her. I'll make damn sure she knows her place below me, but she'll be fed and clothed and treated like a normal person.

I sigh. "Get up."

My mother stares at me in shock for an instant, her eyes flicking fearfully to Lucifer. "But I..."

"Mother, please get up." My tone is cold, but not emotionless.

She nods quickly and rises to her feet, brushing the dirt and soot from the rags she's been dressed in and squaring her shoulders. Her eyes meet mine and stare coldly. Two sets of eyes - emerald green and hazel - are squaring off.

"Alright," I sigh. "Let's get you out of those rags properly dressed."

Both my mother and Lucifer stare at me, stunned. They've both expected me to go thermonuclear on mom and tear her to pieces. Instead, I do the opposite and act rationally.

I turn to my husband, giving him my patented exhausted look. "She's my mom. Hell yes, she's fucked up, but I'm not going to treat her like an animal. I can't use and abuse her just because she screw me over. I was raised better than that." I can't help taking the shot. It might rattle my mother's cage enough that she'll shape up a bit.

My mother's eyes narrow an inch, a dead giveaway that she's gearing up for a fight. "Your father raised you to be sweet and gentle, Michelle. He never taught you how to protect yourself or go after what you wanted. I taught you that. All you ever learned from him was how to pitch."

Damn straight.

My mother, for once, is telling the truth. She taught me the art of manipulating people and fooling boys to get what I want. As if I really needed help there -- mom once remarked that my chest could convince a gay man to sleep with me. My father, on the other hand, taught me how to fix a flat tire, wield a drill and pitch a ball fast enough that I was recruited onto the boy's baseball team in high school.

Dad wins this one.

I clamp my mouth shut, fighting my instinct to spin around and tear her face off. The family joke is that my mother practically owns China since her ego is larger than the entire country, and she's just proved it here. She likes to think of herself as a hot-shot supermodel that can charm her way into anything. She's really an insecure little girl who tries to compensate for her faults by using others to get her way.

High school flashbacks, anyone? Tessa Helsten, you've met your match.

Thankfully, I'm used to my mother's blame game and easily avoid losing my temper. Instead, I take a cleansing breath and turn to face her. "You taught me how to win. Dad taught me how to survive. You lose this argument."

She wears a mask of annoyance, as if she's been slighted. "Michelle, I've taught you-"

I narrow my eyes and hold up my hand, silencing her. "This conversation ends here and now. I've been kind enough to respect you as my mother despite your constant manipulations of me, and I've offered to clothe you as a normal person instead of the servant that you are. But the more you run your mouth, the less kindness I may be inclined to show."

That right there, that was awesome.

At that moment, all three of us are stunned in our own separate ways. My mother is horrified that I've finally showed some spine and faced her head-on. Lucifer looks about ready to pick me up and start swinging me around because I managed to stand my ground. I'm excited because, for the first time since my marriage, I sounded like a queen.

My mother stares at me for a moment, the drops her head in defeat. I may be her daughter, but I am no longer the insecure push-over she remembers. She cannot barter me off or put me in as a replacement when she backs out of a deal any longer. I am her superior, and she is bound to follow my orders. The parent must now answer to the child.

Freud would have a field day with this.

Mom avoids making eye contact, instead staring at the floor like a guilty teenager who's just been caught sneaking out. I shake off our argument and walk over to armoire. I grip the twisting iron handles and throw the doors open, beginning my descent into the endless piles of clothing that awaits me inside.

My quest is almost an immediate failure. The racks are full of clothing meant for my frame, not my mother's. I'm about five-foot-seven, a slender size six and possess a chest that makes me very top-heavy. Mom's about three inches shorter than me, with wider hips, a generous chest like mine and far more junk in her trunk. Sharing clothing is impossible for us.

I pull out of the racks, exasperated. This isn't going to work. We'll have to find some way to have her clothing tailored to her frame instead of shoving her into my dresses.

Ten pounds of sausage in a five pound bag. Even here that's a little harsh.

"Any way we could have someone make stuff for her?" I look over my shoulder at Lucifer.

He's pouting angrily. Not at me, but at my decision to treat my mother like more than just a servant. He has an in-depth knowledge of who she is and what she's done -- I was forced into this marriage because of her -- so he's less than thrilled that I'm treating her so kindly. He'd rather toss her into the flaming rivers and be done with it. But she's my mother and my servant, so I have the last word.

He glances at mom briefly, still upset, then returns his gaze to me and nods. "I suppose we could have the seamstresses create something..."

I smile and nearly skip over to him, looping my arms around his shoulders and crushing my lips to his. I hear his soft gasp of surprise morph into quite moan of lust. His arms encircle my waist, pulling me sharply against him. His hands slide down the smooth fabric of my robe and cup my ass, a possessive motion that lets the remaining demons in the room know he's staking his claim.

I nearly twitch away at first, then decide to lat him have his moment. Besides his hands feeling damn good massaging my ass, he needs a way to mark his territory against any overly-ambitious demons that may be eyeballing me from a distance. I'm also having the time of my life knowing that my prudish mother is watching my fallen angle husband feel me up. For a woman who's sold off her daughter for a failed attempt at the English crown, my mother has an incredibly hard time watching people explore their sexuality.

Silently, I decide to use our constant displays of affection as a tiny weapon against my mother. I don't have the heart to torture her or condemn her to death for what she's done to me. But I do have the confidence to make her suffer through watching Lucifer and I eat each other's faces off and ransack the bed.

It's a punishment that will reduce the need for having a demon pull out her hair as a torture. After two weeks, she'll be doing it herself.

Finally, after a few long heartbeats of kissing and having my ass wonderfully massaged, I pull away from Lucifer and smile up at him. He does his best to hold back his grin, but I can see the tiny flickers of lust in his bright eyes. A bubble of my own desire starts prodding my mind, and I smile to myself as I push it down gently, keeping it hidden for now.

Is it legal for a woman to want her husband like this?

Tearing my eyes away from my impossibly handsome husband, I turn back to my mother. She's staring at us with a mixture of horror and disgust, a sure sign that our few seconds of PDA worked like a charm.

I give her an apologetic smile. "Unfortunately, we don't have anything for you to wear besides the clothing you've been given."

My mother sulks like a child. "There's nothing I can wear?"

I raise my eyebrows. "Mom, have you ever been able to fit into my jeans?"

That shuts her up.

I shake my head. "For right now, you'll just have to deal with what you have. We'll have the seamstresses work something out and you can wear what they give you." I stop, eyeing my mother cautiously. "But only what they give you. This is Hell and you're my servant, so you don't get your choice of color or style. I'll do what I can to make you feel comfortable, but I run this place, not you."

She sighs and nods. I feel almost giddy. For the first time in years, my mom has acquiesced to falling into her place. And for the first time, I'm starting to feel like I'm a real queen.

"I'll put the order in for you to wear something besides rags. Until then, you can go. I'll call when I need you."

My mother stares at me for a moment, unsure of what to do. She knows her place is below me, but it must be incredibly difficult for her to relinquish the power she's held onto so tightly to her only daughter. Taking orders from me isn't something she's used to. She nods silently, though, and starts to make her way towards the door.

Guilt and depression start to settle into my gut, and I rush over and hug her before she can exit. It's a silent hug, one meant to quiet the pain and remorse stirring inside me. It only lasts a few seconds, but it's enough to solidify the idea that she's still my mom and I love her despite what she's done to me.

I watch silently as my mother and her two escorting demons exit into the hallway. Mom never looks back at me; her pride has been too deeply damaged to look at her daughter. I roll my eyes at the back of her head just before the door closes behind them. By now, I'm sadly accustomed to my mother's defense tactics of running away when she's defeated. How such a frightened, spineless woman gave birth to a daughter who could give Bob Feller a run for his money, I will never know.

Lucifer and I are finally alone. He steps up behinds me and loops his arms around my waist. My body responds instinctually, leaning back against him so I can feel the chill of his skin through my robe. His cheek presses against my neck, and I tilt my head back as he nuzzles me. His hands, unsurprisingly, travel upwards along my robe and cup my breasts through the fabric.

"You sounded like a true queen," he murmurs against my skin.

I giggle. "Cross me, sire, and thou shall have thine balls turn blue."

He bucks his hips against me. "You wouldn't dare," he whispers teasingly.

I open my mouth to respond, but I'm silenced by my own inner workings. I haven't eaten a thing since our wedding reception, and my body has taken notice. A pain courses through my abdomen, so sharp and so deep I feel like I've been stabbed. Involuntarily, I squeeze my eyes shut and groan, trying to drown out the ravenous hunger clawing at my gut.

Lucifer pulls back an inch. "What is it?"

I groan softly. "I'm starving.

He barks out a sharp laugh and spins around to face me. He grabs my hand and stars to pull me towards the bed. He strips me of my robe and helps me into my dress again. The top two chains of my gown are still missing from our game with Bradfield, but I don't care at this point. I can only concentrate on not passing out from lack of nourishment. Once I'm properly laced into my dress, Lucifer takes my hands and pulls me towards the door.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



"That's perfect!" The door to our room opens as we enter the hall. "You can meet the others while we eat."

I manage to gain my footing and follow closely behind him. "Others?"

He grins over his shoulder at me. "Beelzebub, Asmodeus, Leviathan. All the other angels that fell with me. They've been asking about you relentlessly since I announced our engagement. Meeting you will finally shut them up."

Yes! Food!

My body rejoices silently, the promise of long-awaited nourishment spurring me on to keep pace with him. We make our way quickly down the hall, turning sharply down one of the many smaller halls that branch off the man corridor. We begin to turn randomly, spinning left and right down a myriad of hallways until I'm nearly dizzy.

Left...right...right...left....right...shit!

Finally, we exit onto a wide ledge of black rock that peers over the fiery river of screaming souls. Lucifer pulls me over towards one edge of the outcrop. An enormous circle is etching into the rock, inscribed with more designs of the demonic language. Lucifer snaps his fingers once and the circle twists, breaking away from the rest of the ledge and sending a plume of black dust into the air. A hole has formed where it was once connected to the rest of the ledge, and it floats within the small space, waiting for us.

Gently, Lucifer coaxes me onto the circle of rock. The designs now glow bright gold, radiating heat as I step onto the heated surface. Lucifer snaps his fingers again, smiling at me as the floating disc of rock jerks, then descends into the hole.  

'Going down?" he grins at me.

I stare at the glowing symbols my feet, then met his haze. "Hellevator?"

He throws his head back and gives a sharp laugh. "Cliché, but it works."

Our elevator descends quickly, taking us into the bowls of Hell. A tunnel of black rock surrounds us the entire way, barely lit by small flames embedded into the rock that flash by as we shoot downward. We grind to a stop seconds later, the platform pausing at a large arched hallway cut into the rock. Lucifer leads me into the brightly lit hallway, taking hold of my hand so I don't fall too far behind.

The hallway is short, so short that we exit into an enormous dining hall in seconds. It's twice the size of the main foyer, with rich blue and green marble slabs tiling the floor and walls. Along the entire length of one wall are enormous oval cut-outs that let us peer into the vast chasm of souls below. The fiery pits below give off a soft red-orange glow that illuminates the room.

In the middle of the room sits an enormous carved oak table that stretches nearly fifty feet across the floor. Covered with rich fabric, it carries the weight of hundreds of plates on its dark stained surface. From cooked venison to tiramisu, there's almost no delicacy left out of the feast.

Along the table's length sit dozens of high-ranking demons, each seated in an elaborately carved chair diving into his own silver plate piled high with food. Those farthest from where Lucifer and I stand are simple generals or Keepers that manage the damned in the pits. The guests nearest to us have the charred remnants of wings attached to their shoulders, denoting their status as fallen angels. At the very end of the table sit two empty chairs, inlaid with stones and covered in twisting metal spires.

The biggest, tallest and most elaborate chairs at the table. I couldn't begin to tell you who those belong to.

Giving me a soft smile, Lucifer tugs at my hand and leads me toward the empty seats. One of the fallen angels looks up for an instant, then slams down his utensils and snaps his spine straight. He stares at us, holding completely still as we approach. The other demons look up, startled by their companion's sudden movement. They, too, notice us and halt their meal. Lucifer pulls my seat back and allows me to sit first, pushing me in quickly then taking his own seat at the table.

A hundred pairs of eyes stare silently at us, waiting for instruction. My eyes flick to each of them, taking in my new, very formidable company. Their eyes, a menagerie of colors ranging from electric blue to pitch black, lock on me, periodically flicking to Lucifer in interest.

"So," the fallen angel nearest to me speaks, his deep voice making my entire body vibrate. "This is our new queen?"

"Beelzebub." My husband smiles and nods. "This is the former miss Michelle Harlowe. She's our newest addition to the family and our proud queen."

The angel turns to me and smiles. He's strikingly handsome, with bright silver eyes, pale skin and wavy blond hair. A jagged scar runs from the top of his left eye to his jaw, marring what would have been a flawless face. His wings shift slightly as he reaches for my hand. He holds it lightly and inclines his head, his eyes never leaving me.

"You majesty," he croons.

I smile back. "Michelle is fine."

He nods and smiles wider, lifting his head and releasing my hand. His eyes flick to my dress and widen with interest. I flush as I suddenly remember that the first two chains of my bodice are missing, leaving very little to the imagination. Beelzebub grants himself a few precious seconds of staring before gathering himself and chivalrously returning to his plate of food. I exhale quietly, relieved. I'm safe from being ravaged by and overly-interested fallen angel...for the moment.

Lucifer turns to me and begins to counts off the former angels that line the table: sitting alongside Beelzebub are Asmodeus, Mammon and Leviathan. Sitting directly across from them are Belphagor, Samael, Astaroth and Azazel. They're all stunning handsome, but they don't come close to my husband. He shames them all.

A little farther down the line of demons, leaning over the table so she can glare at me, is the deathly gorgeous and oh-so-infamous Lilith. Golden-haired, ocean-eyed and rosy-cheeked, she wears nothing more than a draped Grecian-style violet gown, mocking the idea of purity and delicateness by weaving dozens of tiny dead flowers in her hair. She's the epitome of murderous beauty. She's also a good competitor for Leyna when it comes to giving me they evil eye of death.

Fuck. Evil bitch part two.

I sigh angrily and sulk in my seat. This is not what I wanted to deal with today. I already have Leyna trying to steal Lucifer away, and now Lilith is giving me a death glare? If there's one part about living in Hell I could truly hate, it's the man-eaters that live here.

Lucifer reaches out across the table and drags a jewel-encrusted platter towards me. Roasted venison covered in a rich wine sauce. My stomach does a back flip at the smell and I nearly faint. I'm salivating but manage to keep my mouth shut to avoid making a mess.

Lucifer smiles at me. "Eat."

I smile back. Taking just enough time to place my linen napkin on my lap, I jam my fork into the plate of steaming meat and taking a delicate bite. Queen of Hell, yes, but I was raised with manners.

The taste renders me mute for a moment, and I manage to suppress a moan. It's fantastic, along with everything else here. Swallowing my first delicious bite, I stab another piece of meat and take another delicate bite, feeding my hunger while keeping my royal charms in check.

"How long has the marriage been official?" Belphagor breaks the silence.

Lucifer grabs his own plate of food and starts to eat. "Three days."

"She's been crowned, I assume." Belphagor's crimson eyes narrow at me.

Lucifer nods. "Yesterday."

A wide smile breaks across the fallen angel's face. "Excellent."

I smile at him and, on instinct, incline my head slightly. His smile softens, though the energy from it stays the same, as he inclines his own head. My gut impulse has saved me. Queen or not, respecting these powerful figures who serve directly under my husband might just keep me alive for another century or two.

"Those things real?" Samael's booming voice snaps me out of my silent musings.

I turn to stare at him, startled and a little confused. His eyes, an electric ocean blue, are fixed on my barely-covered chest. His pouty lips are parted slightly, giving the tiniest hint of his newfound lust.

Ah. Are those real?

A proud smile rises to my lips. "Yes, they are." I glance at Lucifer for an instant. "Unfortunately, I'm afraid you'll have to consult with my husband if you want to see for yourself."

Lucifer sputters and jerks in his seat, nearly choking on his bite of food.

I'm barely able to suppress my laughter.

Samael throws his head back and bursts out laughing, the deep sound echoing around the hall. "I like her!"

Lucifer swallows his food and turns to me, giving me a sly, you're-in-so-much-trouble smile. I smile back innocently and take another bite of venison.

"If you don't mine me asking," Samael's caught my attention again. "What are you?"

My chin lifts involuntarily. "36D."

He laughs again and swings his arm to the side, smacking Lilith on the shoulder. "She's got you beat by a full cup!"

She scowls and rubs her shoulder. "She's still human."

Beelzebub gives an exasperated sigh. "Will you give that a rest? You've been bitching about this all week. Yes, she's human. But she's Lucifer's choice, not yours. Give it up."

She glares at Beelzebub, then flicks her eyes to Lucifer. "I just don't understand why you had to pick a mortal girl."

Lucifer shrugs and takes another bite. "She's not mortal anymore."

That doesn't placate Lilith. "You had your choice of millions of succubae! All of them were ready and willing to marry you in an instant. And you go for a human? Why?"

Lucifer takes a long breath, closing his eyes and rubbing his temple with two fingers. Clearly, this isn't the first time my husband and Lilith have been at odds with his choice of a bride. My gut instinct tells me she's a more powerful form of Leyna - jealous that I, a human, bypassed her for the honor of marrying their master. Knowing that a grenade's about to go off somewhere, I scoot my chair an inch to the side, putting a tiny amount of distance between me, Lilith and my now frustrated husband.

Lucifer manages to reign in his anger. "Lilith, we've had this conversation before. I wanted a human girl, so I married one. End of discussion."

Lilith, unfortunately, is persistent. "But why? She's weak, fearful, skinny. She's got no experience with damned souls or torture methods. She doesn't belong here!"

Lucifer's eyes narrow at her. "Lilith." His tone is dark, warning her that she's treading into shark-infested waters.

"I'm only saying that if you had married a demon girl-"

"Lilith, knock it off!" Samael turns to glare at her. "He found a girl to marry and it wasn't you. Deal with it."

That shuts her up. Lilith stares at Samael in shock for a moment, then drops her head and glares at her food. My gut was correct again. She and Leyna are both envious of me being queen. As much are her not-so-subtle anger has rubbed me the wrong way, I'm glad someone besides my husband took my side in this fight. I mentally pat myself on the head. Showing a little respect to the former angels surrounding me has earned me a few allies.

The table is silent for a moment, and I'm able to take another bite of food to soothe my raging hunger.

"The CEO of Goldman sent in a request this morning." Asmodeus, the famed ruler of the lust circle in Hell, breaks the silence.

Lucifer perks up. "What did he want?"

The angel shrugs. "Insurance. He wanted to make sure they'd be covered in case the market crashes again."

Samael scoffs. "Some people just won't accept their own faults."

I stare at Asmodues, curious. "I thought you only ruled over the lustful. How did you know about Goldman's plea?"

Thankfully, the fallen angel gives me a warm smile instead of a rueful glare. "You're correct in that I do rule over the souls of those whose libido got the better of them. But all of us under your husband have direct access to any request made from the human world. It's a failsafe to make sure that stuff gets handled if Lucifer here were to ever go M.I.A."

"Oh." I nod and smile at him. Well, that does make sense. If Lucifer happened to be tied up with creating a war - or, perhaps, tangled up in bed with me -- someone would have to make sure the place ran smoothly.

"If she were a true queen, she would have known that," Lilith growls quietly.

There's a collective groan at the table. My happy mood sinks like a block of cement into my gut. Lucifer's deadly scowl has returned, along with Samael's angry glare and Beelzebub's exasperated sigh.

"Lilith," Samael warns.

She shrugs. "I'm just making a point."

No, you're being a bitch. Please be less of a bitch.

"Lilith. For shit's sake, just stop." Beelzebub mirrors Lucifer's previous action of rubbing his temples. "We're trying to have a peaceful dinner with our new queen and you just can't shut your damn mouth."

Lilith raises her head and stares at me coldly. "She's not fit to be our queen."

That's it.

I can sense the hurricane has landed, but I intend to jump ship before it hits me. Before my husband can erupt on her bitchy demonic ass, I shove my chair back and stand up from the table.

"Michelle-" Belphagor starts.

I shake my head and stare directly at Lilith. "No, I'm done here. I've been chosen as your queen and you refuse to accept that. That's fine. You have free will as much as I do and I'm willing to respect your choice. But I will not sit here for the entire meal listening to you whine and complain about me getting picked to be queen over you. You're a demon. You should be able to control yourself better."

Lilith stares at me, thunderstruck. Lucifer's lips hold a small smile meant to show his pride for me. Asmodeus and the rest of the fallen angels can barely hold back their laughter.

I don't stop. "You're centuries older than I am, and yet you sit here throwing a fit like a child. I honestly expected more from a demon as infamous and powerful as you, Lilith. Unfortunately, your reputation far from precedes you. If all you can do is insult my humanity and my ignorance about a place I've only lived in for three days, then perhaps I shouldn't grace you with my presence."

Having said my piece, I turn on the balls of my feet and step away from the table. I spin and begin to make my way towards the short hallway we came in from. Behind me, I can hear the scrape of a chair on marble as Lucifer steps aside to chase me down. I can also hear the sudden eruptions of laughter coming from dozens of fallen angels and high-ranking demons. I've managed to show some spine and put Lilith in her place in front of Lucifer's best and brightest.

Not bad for my third day on the job.

Within seconds of my exit, Lucifer has caught up to me. His icy hand grips mine as he gently pulls me to a halt. He steps in front of me, a brilliant smile on his face and absolute elation in his eyes.

I smile and cock my head. "Proud of me?"

"You have no fucking idea." He leans in and kisses me. "Stay," he murmurs against my lips.

I sigh and shake my head. "No. I'm not going to sit there and listen to her chastise me all night."

He pulls back and stares at me apologetically. "I can toss her in the fire pits if you want."

I smile at his attempt to console me and shake my head. "What I really want is a nice long bath and a nap."

Fuck, that actually sounds good.

Lucifer sighs. "You're sure?"

I nod. "I'm exhausted."

He gives a soft smile. "I'll have Samael escort you back."

I shake my head. "No, I want to go alone."

"Michelle..." he starts.

"Lucifer please. I need a little time to clear all the murderous thoughts out of my head." I rise up on my toes and kiss him. "I'll be fine."

He sighs again. "I suppose you can handle yourself."

"Suppose?" I stare at him. "I just verbally kicked Lilith's ass."

That brings his smile back. He steps forward and loops his arms around me, his enormous wings sweeping around to encase me in feathery softness. He leans in and kisses me again, his hands sliding down to cup my ass. I smile against his lips and circle my arms around his neck.

"You be safe, damn it," his whispers against my mouth.

"I'll do my best." I pull away and start to make my way towards the hallway. "You come to bed, damn it."

"Couldn't think of a reason I'd decline." His smile is breathtaking.

I giggle softly and kiss him one last time before I turn and start down the hall again. "Send Samael after me with that plate, will you?" I call over my shoulder.

He winks at me. "Will do."

I smile and enter the hallway, looking back to watch him as he makes his way back to the table. His wings are folded tightly against his back, twitching in anticipation for something. I catch sight of Lilith's horrified face and understand that someone's about to have their ass handed to them. A small smile cracks onto my lips. Serves her right. That woman has a bigger attitude than mom when I beat her at Monopoly.

I make my way down the short hallway, lost in thought of how nice that warm bath will feel. My breasts are still a bit sensitive from the piercings, and being rubbed by the fabric of my dress hasn't helped them heal much. The hot water might do them some good.

I step gingerly onto the slab of rock that brought me down here, not wanting to be caught off guard and have it shoot up when I'm not prepared. Instead, it seems to wait for me to gain my balance on the uneven surface before gliding smoothly upward. This trip is faster, and I reach the top in a matter of seconds. When I step onto the ledge of rock, the circle descends back into the abyss, resetting itself to collect another high-ranking official wanting to leave the hall.

I turn and make my way down the labyrinth of hallways Lucifer and I walked through. Somehow, I've managed to memorize the majority of turns we took, and I'm able to make my through a good portion of the twisting maze. For the few turns I haven't branded into my head, I take my best guess, hoping that all roads will lead to the main corridor eventually.

My gut instinct, once again, has saved my ass. After ten minutes of twisting and turning through the dimly lit mass of corridors, I'm spit out into the cold emptiness of the main hall. It's deathly quiet here, but right now I like it that way. I have a chance to clear my head and figure out how I'm going to deal with my new role as queen. I turn and start making my way down the hall towards my room, my body kicking into autopilot as my mind figures out how to handle my current issues.

First things first: Mom. She's been elected as my servant, which means she'll serve under me for the next three hundred years until her debt to Lucifer is cleared. She'll be taking my every request and demand, answering me without question and doing anything I ask without hesitation.

I shiver slightly, uncomfortable with the thought. Yes, she screwed me over and forced me into a married with the baddest of bad guys, bit she's my mother. Having her be my servant just doesn't sit right with me. I know there's no way I can reverse her punishment or lessen it -- she might get placed with someone less inclined to treat her with respect or sympathy -- but still.

If you can't beat them, treat them as you would treat anyone else.

I sigh to myself. I can't stop Lucifer from taking his reward from their deal, but I can treat my mother with a little kindness and allow her to keep some of her dignity. The better I treat her, the more likely she'll come to respect me as her queen...and maybe even think of me as her daughter rather than a pawn.





The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



Now that mom's been cleared away...Lilith.

I literally groan out of exhaustion. That woman is going to drive me nuts, I just know it. She's got her crosshairs trained on my head, she just doesn't have the guts to pull the trigger. I know now that she and Leyna both share a deep hatred for me and my position. Both of them feel slighted for being passed over by a human for queen.

The good news: She probably won't come after me for it and try to slice my head off. Lilith, thankfully, knows better than to challenge Lucifer at anything. She's worked under him for way too long to even try taking me out.

The better news: In a matter of five minutes I've managed to stand my ground against her and proved to the mass of fallen angels and demons that I have a spine and I'm willing to use it. That grants me a few ounces of street cred and puts me on top of the Verbal Ass Kicking list. Bonus points there.

I make my way quietly down the enormous hallway, slightly comforted by the screams of the damned souls below me. At least I'm not wandering back to my room in complete silence. I continue on, making my way mindlessly down the massive hall towards my room and my long-awaited bath.

There's a noise behind me, like the soft whisper of wings on tile. Immediately, my heart skips. Lucifer has decided to leave the dinning hall and follow me, possibly to have another go at that wonderful session in the bathtub. I'm barely able to hold back my smile, and I spin around to welcome my dark husband into my arms.

What stands before me is not my husband. He's tall like my husband, though, and nearly as painfully handsome. Wearing nothing but black slacks, his strongly chiseled body and powerful arms are on full display. Snow-white wings are relaxed, splayed out along the dark tile floor. A mass of long wheat-blond hair and piercing blues eyes offset his tanned flesh and chiseled features.

Michael. Holy shit.

I stare at him, swallowing loudly. This can't be good.

He smiles softly at me. "Miss Harlowe, I presume?" His voice is deep, resonating, and simply divine.

I manage to steady myself. Gorgeous as he may be, Michael is not my Lucifer. There's no seductive darkness, no playful evilness about him to stir my hormones awake. He's a squeaky-clean goody two-shoes who cast my husband down into these pits because his dad couldn't handle being questioned. Motherfucker.

I lift my chin an inch. "Your Highness will do, thank you."

His brows rise an inch. "Your Highness? Settling into our role already, are we?"

I scowl a bit. "What could you possibly want? I don't believe your name is on the guest list."

His smile widens, showing two rows of immaculate white teeth. "I come to you on behalf of my father."

Father? Double shit.

I gulp quietly. "What does he want?"

Michael steps forward, his arms swinging wide and his wings fidgeting to life. "What he always wants. To offer you freedom and love and redemption."

"Redemption?" I ask sarcastically. "What do I need to be redeemed? I've done nothing wrong. I never made a deal or killed anyone. Why would I need to be saved?"

Michael shakes his head, his smile never wavering. "Poor innocent Michelle. Forced into marriage with my heartless brother by her mother and crushed by the untimely death of her father. Such a sad trail of misfortune follows you, and all because your mother wanted to be queen."

His tone leaves a bad taste in my mouth. "So? My mom's selfish. Who isn't at some point?"

He comes closer, closing the space between us. I stand my ground; backing away here won't do me any good. If I keep my stance firm, maybe he'll fly away.

"My father isn't," he nearly sings the words. "He never is, was or will be."

I scoff. "I doubt that."

His smile fades into a mask of seriousness. "What makes a loving woman like you say such blasphemous things?"

I stare coldly at him. "Sodom and Gomorrah ring a bell? Or the thousands of people he killed off because they worshipped someone besides him?"

"Such vague references." He's some close enough to me that I can feel the heat -- not an icy chill -- radiating off his skin. "Plague killed off most of those poor souls."

"Uzzah?" I counter. "He touched that ark. He didn't tag the damn thing.

Michael is rendered mute for a moment but recovers. "A foolish act by a man who knew better...but a fair point."

I can't help a small smile. "Thank you. You're too kind."

He starts to slowly circle me, trapping me in my place by extending hid wings to make a barrier. "And you're quite an enigma."

"How so?" I ask sweetly.

"So charming, so graceful, so intelligent, so..." he gives me a once-over, "...physically blessed. I don't understand why you would choose to stay with Lucifer."

I shrug. "He's not as bad as your family makes him out to be."

"Isn't he?" Michael looks at me incredulously. "You've only spent three days with him. I've spent millennia around my brother. I'd like to think I know him a little better than you."

"Maybe, but all you and your dad can see is that bad parts of him," I fire back. "You've forgotten the good person he used to be."

Michael takes a long breath and closes his eyes for an instant. "You're quite insightful for a human, I'll give you that."

Point two for my team.

"I just don't understand why you'd choose to stay here with my brother." Michael resumes his circling. "No doubt he's told you bits and pieces of his past."

I nod. "No details, but he's mentioned a few of his own sins."

Michael scoffs. "His own sins. Ironic how he punishes those who have done the same wrongs as hum."

"Not all of us are being punished for what we have done," I counter

"People like you are the exception, Michelle."

"There's an exception to everything, even your brother." I manage to soften my tone a bit. "He's still your family. Despite what he's done, don't you still love him?"

Michael sighs. "Of course, but I cannot forgive hm. He denounced father and has created hysteria over the entire planet. He's caused so much harm, inflicted so much pain...he's still my brother and I love him, but I'm not sure I could ever welcome him back."

I grit my teeth. "Since we're on the subject of people who've done harm, perhaps your father should be here as well?"

Michael turns away from me, side-stepping from my change of subject. "Why, Michelle? Why do you willingly stay here with him?"

I lift my chin and answer as honestly as I can. "Because he's the only person besides my father and Richard who really cares for me."

Michael screeches to a halt, whipping around to stare at me. "You honestly think he cares about you?"

I nod again. "I do."

"What on earth would make you think such a thing?" His eyes are wide with horrified shock.

My flyspeck of an ego swells slightly. "For one thing, I'm the first queen he's ever had. Surely putting up with me is evidence enough."

"Michelle-" he starts.

"He's also sweet and kind to me." A tiny smile is growing on my lips. "And intelligent and honest."

"That's all a ploy-"

"He's also one hell of a lover." I smirk.

Michael rolls his eyes and groans. "He's simply fooling you! He has no heart or love in him! He's hollow, nothing but hatred and anger! He can't please you at all!"

My hands fly to my hips as I glare at him. "The hell he can't! I don't see you or any of your brothers flying down here to lay me out on a bed."

A soft smile breaks his stoic expression. "With you my dear, believe me when I say I would love to."

Eew. No.

I scoff. "As mach as I'm sure you mean that, I'm afraid I must respectfully decline. I'm far too comfortable with my husband to ever be pulled astray by you."

He smile widens an inch. "Pity. That chest of yours is magnificent."

I nearly burst out laughing. "You are brothers!"

He gives me a confused stare. "How so?"

I shake my head. "Both of your are entranced by my boobs."

Michael gives a sly smile. "I'll give my brother credit, he chose a very entrancing woman as a queen."

I'm honestly flattered by Michael's compliment, but I've had enough of this conversation. Neither of us is going to back down on our view of Lucifer, so we might as well call it a draw and walk away. That will leave us both unharmed and might end the confrontation on a friendlier note.

"You're a very gracious person, Michael, and I respect your passion when speaking about your father," I decided to end this as soon as possible. "But I'm afraid I won't be swayed so easily from my views, either. I'm married to Lucifer, and I've resolved to make the best of it. Despite what you and your family may think, he is still my husband. Until he does harm towards me, I won't turn my back on him."

Michael sighs and shakes his head. "So trusting, even when it's the devil himself. How you humans do it, I will never know."

I shrug. "Your father granted us free will."

"That he did, but I never imagined it would be so misused." His eyes narrow at me. "You decide to stay married to evil rather than join the light?"

I stare at him, offended to my core. "Ted Bundy has killed over thirty women just because he wanted to, and you're singling me out because I'm staying with your brother?"

"Because you willingly choose to stay with Lucifer! Bundy has no choice!" He's pissed now, and I back away a step. "You have all the opportunity in the world to make something great of yourself, and you decide to stay here with my brother! How could you, knowing his past?"

Frightened as I am, I stand my ground. "Because I've seen the slices of good that are still inside him. They're buried under years of shit and anger, but they still exist! Just because you choose not to see them doesn't mean they're totally lost! It doesn't give you the right to chastise me, either!"

His eyes blaze with fury. "Insolent fool! You'll get yourself killed one day because of your trust in him. I know my brother in ways you cannot comprehend! He'll tear your heart out sooner or-"

"What the fuck do you want, Michael?" The deep, rhythmic tone of my husband's voice saves my head from being separated from my shoulders.

I hear his footsteps an instant before he strides up and stands beside me. His bright gold eyes are blazing, and his flawless lips have been disfigured to form a scowl. His enormous ebony wings are spread slightly, casting a shadow across the walls and making his look far more intimidating than he is...if that's even possible.

A sliver of anger fades from Michael's face, replaced by a mixture of fear and absolute loathing. "Your queen and I were simply having a chat."

"That was quite a chat. I could hear your ranting from three floors below." Lucifer's voice is smooth, almost emotionless. I stare at him in wonder. He's got more self-control in his finger that I do in my entire body.

Michael rolls his eyes. "Why have you decided to grace us with your presence? We were almost finished."

Lucifer ignores his inquiry and turns to me. "Are you unharmed?"

I nod, relieved to have backup. "Fine. Pissed, but fine."

He nods, a tiny smile breaking his frozen features. He turns back to Michael. "You didn't come down here just to harass my queen. What does dad want?"

Michael's caught off-guard for an instant, but recovers. "Nothing but your queen. She doesn't belong here, Lucifer."

My husband shrugs. "That's not your call."

"She's still alive, Lucifer! She's an innocent! Why keep her here?"

Michael is getting more frustrated by the minute. The more frustrated he gets, the more irrational and unfocused he gets. That makes him vulnerable to my husband's counter-attack of level-headed fury.

"What happened to her was not her choice, but I believe she said she's willing to work with what she has." Lucifer shoots me a soft smile. "You have no right to deny her a choice, not even that one."

Michael nearly loses it. "That's all you can do. All you could ever do! Question every order you were given, deny every ounce of love father gave you! You took everything for granted and then complained you went through life unloved!"

Lucifer's eyes narrow in anger. "At least I had the balls to question. You just stood there like a mindless sack doing whatever dad told you. You never had the spine to ask anything!"

At this point, I've back myself up a few steps, trying to put some distance between myself and these two sticks of dynamite. I'm more than willing to stand by Lucifer in this argument, but I also know my limits. Technically, I'm human. They're not. If either of them explode, I'm dead.

"I never had to ask! Father was right about everything!"

"He wasn't! He claimed humans were better than us! How can they be? Michelle's own mother sold her to me!"

"They are! They have empathy, life, choice! They have everything we could only ream of!"

"We did have choice. You just chose not to use it!"

My head is spinning, and I can almost feel the rage radiating off of both angels. My husband and Michael are now nose to nose, age-old animosities flaring up again as they try to prove their points. I panic, terrified that the entire room might spontaneously combust. I race over and pull at Lucifer's arm, jerking him back a few inches and throwing a few drops of water on the fuse.

"Please," I beg, "Let's juts go. It's not worth the fight. Neither of you are going to back down, so why waste your breath. Please."

I'm willing to do anything to separate these two, even if it means letting my mother win a game of Monopoly or giving Lucifer a strip-tease. I don't care. I just want to go.

Lucifer stares at me, his eyes still full of fury and anger from their argument. Slowly, though, the ferocity in them fades away, replaced by a soothing calmness so overpowering that makes me wonder if he's got another personality. He turns to Michael, looping one arm around my shoulders and pulling me close.

"Yes, you're quite correct. None of this is worth the energy we've spent." He starts to turn away, taking me with him. "We'll leave him to stew in his anger in peace."

"Asshole!" Michael roars behind us. "She'll come to us someday!"

Lucifer wheels around and gives his brother a look that would make Mount Everest crumble. "Come down here and harass my queen again and I will shove that sword of yours so far up your ass father will wonder how your spine became steel."

With that last threatening defense, Lucifer turns, grabs my arm and hauls me out of the corridor. I don't look back to see if Michael is still there. I don't care. I have my husband and we're leaving, which is exactly what I want.

I manage to regain my footing and keep pace with him. I glance up to see his eyes still blazing from the fight, a mask of pure fury carved onto his beautiful face. He's still fuming, and I don't blame him. Michael may be the poster-boy for heaven's might, but he's an asshole in person. I can see why he and Lucifer never got along well.

"What now," I risk opening my mouth.

"We go to our room and cool off." His voice is cold, emotionless.

We reach the door to our room in what feels like seconds. It swings open just long enough for us to step inside, then slams shut and locks. I stop just onside the door, watching Lucifer pull away and start pacing the room. He's beyond furious, not at me, but at his brother for coming down into his domain and trying to steal away his queen. I feel no anger or annoyance towards him. Any rational man would be upset after that.

That said, I can't watch him pace the floor like a trapped animal. It makes me nervous. I want him to calm down faster, to cool off quickly enough that we'll still have time to roll around in bed. I square my shoulders and walk over to him, gripping his wrist and pulling him towards the bed. He resists at first, but acquiesces and follows me back.

I reach the bed and spin around, sitting down on the soft blankets the line the enormous oak structure. With Lucifer staring at me dispassionately, I reach up and hook my hands on his shoulders, gently forcing him to his knees. He crumbles easily, collapsing to the floor and gazing at me with hollow, empty eyes.

Fuck. That's creepy as hell.

I loop my arms around his neck and pull him forward, guiding him to the front of my dress. If I know Lucifer, then my body will do wonders to calm him down. His cool cheek presses against my breasts and I hold him there, running my fingers through his messy hair. He relaxes almost immediately, turning his head so he can press his nose against my skin and breathe me in. He nuzzles the skin of my breasts, and a soft smile finally arrives on his lips.

"If I had the ability to die," he whispers against my skin, "I would suffocate myself in your breasts and die a happy man."

I relax a bit and smile myself. "Please don't. I'd have to sleep here alone."

He groans happily and pulls away, looking up at me apologetically. "I'm sorry about that argument. Something about Michael always seems to set me off."

I run my fingers through his hair again. "I understand. He pisses me off, too."

His smile widens a bit. "Anything I could do to help my distressed queen?"

I pause, the gears in my head starting to spin. My curiosity builds, the reckless teenage side of my conscience daring me to ask for something insane. My rational side stares in horror, begging that I return to sanity and ask for something normal. I stare at him and chew my lip, stalling for time while my two halves fight for supremacy.

Lucifer's smile falls a bit, his eyes turning worried worried. "Michelle?"

With one final shove, my reckless side claims the crown. "Mind if I blow off a little steam?"

"Blow off a little..." His eyes narrow in confusion, then widen with hope. "I do hope you're implying what I think you are."

I smile and nod.

He stares at me with wide, thunderstruck eyes. Behind his shocked expression, I can almost hear the 'Fuck, yes!' echoing in his mind. A tiny smile breaks on my lips. I've hit a sweet spot.

He takes along breath, trying to conceal his excitement. "If that's what you want."

Spurred on by his enthusiasm, I nod and reach behind my back, scrabbling for the velvet ties of my dress. Lucifer laughs and rises his feet, pulling me off the bed and spinning me around.

"Allow me," he breathes against my neck.

"Please," I whisper back.

He works quickly, pulling the ribbons apart and helping me out of the pool of fabric. He grins like a child at Christmas, and I can only stare and admire his superior beauty. How I'm able to look him in the eyes and remain sane is a mystery.

He leans in for a kiss, but my libido is already fired up and has no time for games. I shake my head and gently shoe him towards the bed. He stumbles a bit, then regains his balance and smiles wickedly at me.

"Take off your pants and sit down," I'm almost pleading for him to comply.

He barks out a laugh. "Yes, ma'am!"

He strips quickly and tosses his jeans aside, collapsing into the bed and grinning at me. His cock stands straight as a pole, proud and strong and ready to go. I giggle at his childlike excitement. There's something so innocent and untainted about him when it comes to sex, like every time is his first. It's charming, honestly.

I step over to the bed, kneeling down in front of him. He's grinning like a madman, practically shaking with anticipation. I'm excited, too. I actually like sucking him off. With Lucifer, it grants me a rare moment of control, as well as allowing me to tease him for once.

"I didn't know I was that good. You're almost bouncing." I can't suppress giggling at his enthusiasm.

His smile never fades. "I have my reasons for liking your mouth."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



I glance at his cock, staring at it apprehensively. I know the extent my talents, and I know that I can make him beg, but I don't know what he likes. He's never told me if there was any particular way he likes being sucked off - something that would make this a bit more enjoyable for him - so I'm apprehensive to simply close my eyes and start.

I look back up at him, biting my lip uncertainly. "Is there anything you want?"

His smile fades, shifting to a confused frown. "Anything I want?"

"You know...is there anything you really like? A certain way you want it?" I shrug.

His eyes widen in recognition, and his brow creases for a minute in concentration. "Try going really slow."

I stare at him, dumbfounded. "Slow?"

His smile retunes. "It'll make the feeling last longer."

Makes sense. Alright, slow it is.

"Anything else?" I reach out and gently grip his shaft, slowly stroking him as he thinks.

"Uh..." He trails off, his breathing unsteady, unable to create a coherent thought for a moment. "No...drawing a...blank for now."

I smile and release his cock. His lust has got a tight grip on his mind, making his thinking hazy and his body hypersensitive. Perfect.

I pull my hair away from my face and dip down, running my tongue along the underside of his cock. He twitches and gives a sharp gasp. My blood starts to pound in my head. For some reason, this has gone past simple oral sex. It has transitioned into a bonding moment for both of us, linking us together in a mutual give-and-take of pleasure.

Finally reaching the tip, I open my mouth and sink down onto him. I hear his sharp intake of breath, feel his fingers reach down and twist in my hair. I smile to myself. As broken, powerful and deceitful as he is, Lucifer is all mine. And I'm all his. He can launch me into the stars and I can bring him to his knees. What a perfect match we are.

Slow. Take it slow.

I take his as far as I can go, which is surprisingly far with him being as gifted as he is. Taking a spare second to breathe and catch myself, I begin the long, languid journey back up his shaft. It takes me a bit of effort to go as slow as I need to, but I get the job done. I reach the swollen tip of his cock and suck lightly for a few seconds before descending again. I do my best to keep the easy pace he requested, and it's becoming easier with ever second.

His skin tastes like the same impossible mix of delicious flavors that fills his mouth. I briefly wonder how I could still have the mind to pleasure such a man, even just kiss him, and not try to eat him in the process.

Above me, Lucifer shivers and twists his fingers tightly in my hair. "Oh, yes," he breathes through clenched teeth. "That's...that is something else."

I'm grinning like a fool on the inside. I've started chipping away at that angry barrier he'd put up so long ago, pulling it down brick by brick with every swirl of my tongue.

He shivers again and exhales loudly. "Fuck, that is nice."

Gently, his hands push me down to the root of his cock, forcing his shaft inside my mouth as far as it will go. He pauses, letting me adjust to having my entire mouth stuffed full of him. It's not at all unpleasant, just different. His hands hold me still, keeping me at maximum capacity.

"Just swallow," he breathes.

I comply, running my tongue over his flesh as I listen to his harsh breathing.

"Oh, that's good." His fingers dig into my scalp. "You stay right there."

I shrug mentally. I promised to give him whatever he wants, so I'll stay right here. I swallow a few more times, taking care to press my tongue firmly against his skin with every movement. Hoping his eyes are closed, I reach my hand down and cup his balls in my hand. I roll them in my palm, giving each orb a gentle squeeze with my fingers.

He gasps, almost whimpering as his body trembles. "Whoa, Michelle! Easy there. Slow down a bit."

Nope. Ask and thou shall receive.

I brush his hands away and continue my torture, keeping my slow pace just to feel him squirm. It works flawlessly, and I'm treated to another round of my husband twitching against my mouth and begging me to stop.

"Michelle," he moans my name and a fire starts in my belly. Hearing my name spoken like that, with such pure sexual force, has me getting aroused.

In my palm, I feel his sac start to tighten. I've brought him to that deep, dark abyss that is sexual release, and I'm dangling him at the edge by a thread. I don't intend to cut that thread and let him fall gently into that dark bliss; I intend the catapult him into it.

"Please," he tries one last time to stop me. "No more. I'm not...Michelle, you don't-"

His words of warning are cut off by his orgasm. His hips buck sharply against my mouth as his fingers twist into my hair again. The muscles of his stomach contract, and he gives a long, painful groan. His balls pulse lightly in my fingers, releasing their burden and sighing in relief. His seed spills into my mouth, hot and salty and almost overpowering. I do my best to swallow quickly, forcing down every last drop so I can catch my breath.

Once he's spent, I pull away and sit back on the cool tile, staring up at him. He's hunched over, bracing his hands on his thighs. His breathing is harsh and ragged, his eyes closed and his hair a mess. A light sheen of sweat covers his body, making him look like an oiled-up Greek warrior. His skin glistens in the light, the lines and ridges of his muscles beautifully highlighted.

Oh...well, hello there.

My gut twists again as another spark of lust surges though me. I'd expected to be proud of myself after giving him yet another stellar blowjob. Getting turned on in the process is an unusual, though not unwelcome, byproduct.

He finally raises his head to look at me. His mouth is open slightly, his breathing still uneven. His golden eyes are blazing, but I can't tell if it's from lust or anger.

"Why didn't you stop?" he rasps

A sliver of fear races up my spine. Did I piss him off by letting him orgasm? Desperately, I try to search for an acceptable answer, by my mind goes blank. I sit on the floor looking up at him with fearful eyes.

"I... I...you said..."

He takes a long, slow breath and refocuses his gaze. "Because that was fucking amazing."

Thank god!

I sigh quietly in relief. He's not pissed, just a little bewildered that I was able to take him so far. I'm quite proud of myself. I've rocked him to the core and knocked him slightly off balance. I consider this a job well done.

His sly smile returns, and he straightens his spine again. He crooks a finger at me. "Come here."

I smile back and rise from the floor, stepping forward so I stand between his legs. His hands loop around my waist, reaching down to cup my ass and lift me into his lap. I straddle his thighs, feeling his softened penis press against my belly. His hands slid up my body, cupping my neck and pulling me towards him. Our foreheads touch, and I watch him close his hypnotic eyes as he inhales slowly.

"Why do you always try to stop me?" I stare at him, waiting for an answer.

He sighs. "The more you make me feel, the less control I have. I don't want to accidentally hurt you because I was blind with lust."

I smile and run my fingers through his hair. "If your were blind with lust, I don't think I would mind."

He shakes his head. "How I got you..."

I lean forward and kiss him. "Because you did. Don't question how we got here. You might jinx it."

He smiles and returns my kiss passionately, tangling his fingers into my hair. I copy him, burying my own fingers into his mess of hair, tugging at it gently and hearing him moan in response. His hands slide down again, gripping my hips and pulling me close so that my breasts are crushed against his chest. His cock hardens against my belly, pressing into my tender flesh.

"Round two?" he asks between kisses.

"Round five, I think," I whisper against his lips.

"Fuck it."

He lifts me off his thighs just long enough to reposition me. He pulls me back down quickly, his cock sliding into me easily. I smile against his lips and moan into his mouth. My body has been aching for this all day, and now it will finally have its hunger satisfied.

Lucifer wastes no time, bucking his hips against me to drive himself deeper into me. His hands reach around to cup my ass again, holding my steady as he slowly pulls back. It's a slow rhythm, but steady and strong. I have no complaints. He's picked a fantastic position, rubbing against every sweet spot I have.

One thrust in particular simultaneously rubs against my clit and the sweetest spot inside of me. I lose my ability to breath momentarily, and pull away from his mouth to catch my breath. I tremble slightly, a bolt of lightening streaking up my spine.

"Oh, Lucifer," I moan his name. "That feels good."

He laughs and kisses my exposed neck. "I aim to please, your majesty."

He does just that, angling his hips and adjusting his hands so I'm leaning away from him, holding myself upright by gripping his shoulders. The new angle is perfect, allowing him to rub against both of my hotspots at once. The feeling is mind-numbing, and I close my eyes and let wave after wave of pure ecstasy roll over me.

"If I could," he whispers between each kiss he places on my throat, "I would do this forever."

Oh, please do.

I moan his name again, my own mindless answer to his confession. I wouldn't mind that at all. He could have me tied to this bed for the next four centuries and I would never tire of him.

Sadly, it over far too quickly, the direct pressure on my clit too much for my body too handle. A few more thrusts and I'm lost, but once again it's a slow, delicious burn. I dig my fingers into his shoulders as I shudder against him, biting my lip but groaning anyway. Lucifer breaks, too, burying his face against my neck as his body twitches against mine and he moans my name.

Seconds pass and we're left panting and covered in a thin sheen of sweat. Calling back my sanity, I giggle and lean forward, moving with enough force to shove Lucifer backward onto the bed when I collide with him. We fall back into the piles of sheets, still locked together as one.

His hands move up my body, wrapping around my waist and holding me close. His cheek nuzzles my hair as he closes his eyes and inhales deeply. Gently, I maneuver my body off his cock and slide my hips to the side so I can rest my head against his chest. His skin is cool against my cheek, soothing yet seductive.

"Oh, woman," he breathes. "The things you make me feel. I think I may have a heart again."

I giggle and trace the lines of his chest with my finger. "You think so?"

One of his hands slides up to stroke my hair. "Perhaps. With you around, I might have a chance at redeeming myself."

I frown. "Please don't."

He freezes, his breath nearly halting. "You want me to be damned and rejected forever?"

I shake my head. "No, but I like you like this. It's the only way I know you. If you did redeem yourself and went beck to your old glory, I might not recognize you as my husband." My lip trembles a bit. "You might not recognize me."

His arms squeeze me thing, his lips pressing into my hair. "No, no, no. I would never forget you, even if I did go back. I couldn't. You've done so much to break me down and tear me to pieces. I wouldn't forgive myself if I lost my memory of you."

"But you'd leave." My voice starts to break, my mind beginning to envision his ascending into Heaven and leaving me behind.

He freezes again, understanding my fear and anxiety. We both know he'd jump at the chance to return to his birthplace, so there's no point in him trying to deny it. Silently, I pray that he keeps being his evil, manipulative self so he can stay here with me.

"I would, but I'm not sure I could leave you behind."

I look up at him, a mix of relief and confusion in my eyes. "Meaning?"

He gives a soft smile a shrugs. "I may have to bargain with the old man so I could take you along. I'd go insane without you." He leans forward and kisses me. "Besides, you're too much fun to leave behind."

I smile and return his kiss. "You're way too crazy for me to leave you alone."

He grins. "Good." He shifts and settles into the soft bedding, reaching down to pull the blankets up to my shoulders.

"We done for the night?" I ask sleepily. All this sex has left me exhausted.

"Yep. We do the same thing tomorrow."

I shift against him and close my eyes. "Good." On an instinctive self-dare, I kiss his chest. "Love you."

He inhales sharply and stills against me, then relaxes. "I...love you, too."

The tremor in his voice gives away his discomfort, but also his sincerity. It's probably been forever and a day since he's admitted he loved someone, so saying those four words must be like pushing Mount Everest a few feet eastward. I smile and settle in against him, letting sleep claim me as my husband begins to snore softly into my hair.

It's not the earth-moving change I've been looking for, but it's a start.

* * *

I wake up starving. My body has survived the last few hours on the few slices of meat I consumed during dinner, but it's craving more. My stomach starts growling, warning me of a growing rebellion inside me that will turn into a riot if I don't eat within the next fifteen minutes.

Groaning, I slip out of my husband's embrace and push myself upright. Gently, I pull back the blankets and swing my legs over the edge of the bed, landing softly onto the cool tile floor. I turn and replace the sheets over my sleeping husband's body, taking a spare second to stop and admire his beauty one more time.

I've scored big time.

I look around the room and spot my black satin robe lying in a heap on the floor. Silently, I walk over and scoop it up, swinging it around so I can slip it on. I tie the ribbon around my waist and check to see that I'm fully covered. I know it's Hell and there are topless demons walking around everywhere, but I feel uncomfortable having anyone besides Lucifer see me naked. As far as I'm concerned, my body is his to stare at and his alone.

I make my way towards the door to our room, moving as quietly as possible so Lucifer can sleep. He doesn't need to wake up to just because I'm hungry. I'll be back in less than fifteen minutes and he'll be none the wiser.

The door to our room swings open silently, and I quick-step through the doorway. It swings closed, but seems aware of my intentions and locks with the slightest noise. I smile.

Good door.

Turning, I start my way down the main hall. It's empty now, so it must be either really early or really late. I'm alone now, which grants me a few precious moments to clear my head. I listen to the sounds of the screaming souls below me, trying to gauge if I can become numb to the sound.

Nope. I still possess my human heart.

I smile to myself. Good. Even after spending nearly a week married to the baddest bad guy in the Bible, I haven't lost my empathy or my common sense. I'm normal. Thank God.

I breathe a small sigh of relief and continue on down the hallway. It's a bit eerie walking by myself, but I don't really mind. I like the quite, and the cool breeze is keeping me awake long enough for me to get to the dining room. My gut is starting to incite a rebellion, so I quickly try to remember whether we turned left or right after the hallway.

"He loves you so fucking much."

I stop, freezing in place. Leyna's voice echoes around the silent hall, bouncing off the stones and ringing in my ears.

"What I can't understand is why." Her tone is mocking and resentful, still upset that I got picked instead of her. Same old Leyna.

I sigh and turn to face her, my hunger slowly being replaced by an acute case of fuck-you-bitch syndrome. This woman, no mater how many times she's been screamed in her face to stop, just won't let this fight die. I finish turning and glare at her, sending as much of my annoyance at her as possible.

She stands about ten feet away from me, dressed in a long black Grecian gown, her cheery-red hair fluttering in the breeze. Her sickly yellow eyes are locked on me, and her lips are curved up in a sly smile.

"I mean, there's nothing really remarkable about you." She sneers at me. "You're human, you're weak, and you're way too sweet for him. What could you possibly have that makes you a better fit than me?"

I stop and think for a second. "A better rack?"

Her eyes narrow. "Lucky draw on the genetics card."

I shrug. "A sense of empathy? A bigger brain? A soul?"

She sneers against and waves her hand dismissively. "All things that prove your weakness. If you were a real queen of Hell, you'd be just a ruthless as Lucifer."

My annoyance boils over. "You mean sink to your level? Pass."

Her eyes shoot wide. "My level? I'm not the one following him around like a homeless dog begging for scraps."

"At least I have enough spine to put Lilith in her place!" I counter.

She pales for an instant, shocked that I've admitted having a strength she lacks. I smile to myself again. Leyna may hate me for marrying her crush, but there's not much she can do to his queen and a woman able to stand up to Lilith. I may be human, but I've got more balls than she'll ever have.

Leyna recovers and dismisses my attack. "She's Lucifer's right-hand girl. She may not like you, but she can't do anything to harm you. Lucifer would go ballistic."

"So you have the right to harm me, but Lilith doesn't? I'm sorry, but where exactly did you get that entitled thought?" I stare at her coldly. "I don't think Lucifer would appreciate it if either of you harmed me."

"I'd be doing him a favor. Once his pesky little human is gone, he can look for a real queen." Her smile turns reptilian, and a shiver races up my spine.

"A real queen? I hope you're not referring to yourself. If you were queen, this whole place would crumble within days." She's talking about supplanting me and taking my crown and husband. Now I'm pissed. "Besides, what makes you think Lucifer would even want you?"

She glares at me, offended and confused. "Why wouldn't he?"

I laugh softly. "Honey, he's spent the last few days with me. We've fucked on nearly every surface in that room, and we've even pierced each other." In a moment of brazen boldness, I pull open the sides of my robe and let her take a good look at Lucifer's attempt at marking his territory. "See? He's mine and I'm his. Deal with it."

She pouts for a moment, and as I pull my robe back around me, I silently hope she's given up and waved her white flag. Instead, she lifts her head and glares at me, the corners of her mouth tilting into a cruel smile.

"You're right," she purrs, "He does have you."

Uh oh. This is going downhill fast. Back away! Back away!

She makes the first move and takes a step towards me. "So maybe, if I can't make him fall for me, I'll just use you."

She reaches out and grabs my shoulder, jerking me forward. Before I can pull way, her hand slides up to cup the back of my neck, holding me in place as she closes the distance between us and kisses me.

My first instinct is to scream like a banshee and claw her face off, but as the kiss goes on, my head starts to swirl and my hands go numb. The room starts to spin, my knees give out and I can't breathe correctly. Leyna is falling with me, and the two of us collapse to the floor. She's got a death grip on me, but I can feel her fingers slip a bit. My entire body is numb, and I lose the ability to think completely.

I take one last breathe before the world goes dark and I hit the floor.

* * *

My head aches. My body still feels numb. My thoughts are jumbled. And I'm still starving.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 03



What the fuck just happened?

I groan and gingerly push myself up from the floor, looking around to survey the damage. There's no massive crater in the wall or burn marks streaking up the marble, but Leyna is gone and I'm reeling from whatever magic trick she pulled on me.

Get up. Find Lucifer.

I nod and crack my finger, trying to rid my hands of the numbness. It works, so I roll my wrists and ankles, hoping to gain back enough strength so I can walk again. The pins and needles fade away, and I smile. I can get going and figure out just what the hell happened to me.

Alright, time to get your ass in gear and find Lucifer.

Nodding to myself, I push against the cool stone floor, using every ounce of my strength to try to stand. I fail and crumple to the floor again, panting. I'm not ready to move yet, so I sit down and rest for a bit until my body has recharged enough so that I can move. In the meantime, I sit back and listen to the screaming souls again, relieved to know I'm not completely alone in my misery and confusion.

I look up for an instant and freeze. Before me is a small puddle of rainwater that's seeped down through the cracks and pooled on the marble floor. In the puddle is a reflection of Leyna, her red hair a mess and her yellow eyes bewildered. She stares back at me, looking as confused as I feel.

What the fuck?

I reach up to cup my aching head and freeze again. Leyna moves when I move, the reflection showing a mirror image of what I'm doing. Dread pooling in my gut, I reach up and trace my lips, watching as the reflection copies me perfectly.

I scream and scramble backwards, pressing my back against the wall. My breathing is panicked, my heart bursting from my chest. I'm Leyna! How the fuck did this happen!

...So maybe, if I can't make him fall for me, I'll just use you...

I think back to her numbing kiss. She must have used her evil bitch power to switch bodies with me. She has my body and I have hers, which means she can finally accomplish her goal of having Lucifer. With my body, he'll never know she and I have switched and that the woman he's with isn't me.

Tears sting my eyes. No, no this can't happen. We were just starting to break ground with him, just beginning to open him up. And I was just starting to actually love him. I can't lose him now, not yet. Not to her.

As much as I want to cry and scream and yell, I can't. That will just do more harm than good. Forcing my natural instincts down, I shake off the despair and pain, focusing my mind on anger. Crying about it won't fix the problem. I need to find Lucifer and explain what's happened, then find Leyna and get my body back.

Gathering my strength again, I shakily haul myself to my feet and pull my now red hair away from my face. I glare down the massive corridor, knowing that's exactly where Leyna has gone. I take a tentative step forward, then another, slowly but surely making my way toward my bedroom. I swear once I find that woman, I am going to tear her head off with my bare hands and serve it on a silver platter.

The screams fade away as my mind slows down and focuses on my goal. My sights are set. I'm going to find Lucifer. I'm going to tell him what happened. And I'm going to find Leyna and get my body back.

And this time...I am gonna kill Bill.



The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



Hey, guys! Sorry this one took so long, but there were a lot of ideas that I had to cram in here. Also, 43 pages is a LOT of work. I'll do my best to crank out 5 a lot faster. For now, enjoy.

Chapter 4: Traitors and Thieves

That bitch. I'm going to fucking kill her.

I make my way down the main hall as quietly as I can, ducking into the shadows at the slightest noise. I may be raging out of my mind, but I'm still in Leyna's disgusting body. No demon will know I'm really their queen and may question why a simple succubus is wandering the main hall unaided. That bitch knew exactly what she was doing: switching bodies with me gave her all the power she wanted and left me to navigate a demonic world alone.

I hate that woman.

I continue to skittishly walk down the hall, determined to stop her from taking over my life. Knowing Leyna, once she solidifies her new bond with Lucifer, she'll make up some stupid excuse to have me killed. I'll never bother her again and she'll have my husband all to herself without him ever finding out. She's an evil bitch, but a crafty one.

There's a sudden burst of noises behind me, signaling a new flood of demons entering the hall. I panic and dart to the side, squeezing into an enormous crack in the wall so I can hide. I stay completely still, hoping that no one will notice. Seconds later the hall fills with demons, all of them caught up in their own lives and oblivious to the world around them. Thankfully, I've squeezed myself far enough into the crack that I'm completely hidden by the shadows and out of sight. I'm safe for now. I just have to wait until the crowd dissipates and I can move on.

I watch the crowd silently, waiting impatiently for them to leave. After three minutes the hall's still jammed and I'm getting antsy. The longer I wait here, the closer Leyna gets to stealing my husband away. I shift on my feet, anxious to get out of thus crack and rip that woman's head off.

A soft tap on my shoulder nearly breaks my vow of silence. I spin around and stare into the darkness, barely able to slap my hand over my mouth in time to stifle my scream. The sconces out in the hall cast a few flickering strands on light into my hiding place, illuminating an enormous bisected abdomen and eight long, slender legs dangling above me in the shadows.

I nearly faint. I hate, absolutely loathe spiders. They're disgusting, evil creatures that bite and crawl uninvited around my house. And now, there's one the size of a Volkswagen Bug hanging a few feet above me. This is Hell.

"Easy now." A deep, rumbling voice cascades down from the creature. "Believe me, my dear, the last thing I want is to harm you."

Slowly, the eight legs start to move, crawling down the wall and carrying the spider's massive bulk with them. As it descends, I can see startling patterns of red, blue, green and gold hair swirling around the abdomen. They're quite beautiful, but I shake my head and remind myself that this thing is still a spider. Pretty as it is, it's still horrifying.

Finally, it crawls down the last few feet of the wall and turns to stare at me. Eight black eyes pierce through the darkness and watch me. A monstrous mouth with dozens of toothed parts move silently, and thin lines of saliva drip from two main fangs. My stomach twists itself so tight it almost bursts, and I let out a soft whimper.

First Leyna steals my body, and now a spider is going to eat me. I'm fucked.

The spider raises one thing leg towards me. "Easy. I've told you I mean now harm, Michelle."

The mention of my names stops my cycle of fear. How does it know I'm Michelle and not Leyna?

"How...how do you-" my voice is shaky, but slightly relieved. Not everyone is fooled.

There's a glimmer of a smile inside its eyes. "I saw the cause of your current misfortune. Luckily for you, I was crawling across the ceiling at the time of your argument with Lenya. I watched her switch forms with you and run off, while you remained unconscious on the floor. Had I been able to move faster, I would have taken you back to my children until we could decide what to do."

Relief washes over my entire body. This spider, disgusting as it may be, is a witness to my predicament. I force down most of my fear, determined to have it help me. It may be the only hope I have of getting my body back and saving my husband.

I swallow loudly and clear my throat. "And you would be..."

The spider laughs. "Oh, of course. Forgive me. That was very rude of me not to introduce myself to the queen. I am Kerion."

Kerion!

Another bubble of relief rushes through me. Claire's friend, thank God! He's a spider, but a good one that's helped out another human before me. I'm definitely safe with this arachnid.

I let out a soft sigh. "Thank God."

"You're quite smart to have hid in here. If anyone had seen you, they'd have sent you back to the harems."

I nod. "I didn't want anyone seeing me. I need to find Leyna and kill her."

Kerion nods. "I understand. Truth be told, you're not the first person in hell to want her gone. That woman has been a thorn in nearly everyone's side."

I cock my head, staring at him. "So why haven't they gotten rid of her."

He sighs. "She's a wily one. Once she wants something, there's almost no stopping her. You're also not the first person she's switched bodes with to get out of a tight spot."

I give a disgusted sigh. "So she's been a super-bitch from the get-go."

"Yes. She's always had a difficult time understanding where her station is. She's too ambitious for her own good."

I steal a glance towards the hall. It's still packed, and I start to worry she's sleeping with my Lucifer as we speak.

"What if she's already got him?" I wonder quietly.

"She won't. Lucifer will be in meetings all day. We have a few hours to recruit help and get you back to normal."

I look back at Kerion. "But what if she gets to him before we can?"

"The good thing about Leyna is that she's a terrible actress. Lucifer may fall for her act of playing you for a few days, but she can't hold it for long. After three or four days, he'll notice the woman he's married to is acting strangely and investigate why."

I stare at him. "She can't hold a character?"

Kerion shakes his massive head. "Leyna's too self-centered and lazy to keep up an act for long. Besides, playing you will mean she'll have to change her entire attitude and pretend she cares about someone other than herself. A few days of that and she'll be barking orders like she always does. At that point, Lucifer will know something is wrong."

That makes me feel a little better, but not enough to erase every fear I have. "What if, in the few days she can play him over, she orders my execution? She's walking around in my skin. There's nothing stopping her from trying to get rid of me once and for all."

Kerion laughs again. "Smart girl, but you have nothing to worry about. While we are a ruthless bunch who live in a ruthless world, we do have a few bureaucratic roadblocks to jump over for anything drastic to be done."

"Meaning?" My anxiety -- a happier, less frightened type -- sparks up again.

"If Leyna were to order your execution to keep you out of the way, the decision would have to go through the Counsil first. Leyna's track record would have to include some very grievous charges to allow her execution. Although most find her annoying and snake-like, Leyna hasn't done nearly enough to warrant her death. That, and the process takes a minimum of a week to be cleared. By that time, Lucifer will have noticed his queen isn't completely normal and we will have had plenty of time to recruit help."

I nearly collapse from relief. Even if she wanted to, Leyna couldn't just order me dead and move on. She'd have jump through a few flaming hoops first, and that would give Lucifer enough time to notice the flaws in her plan and allow me to seek him out and explain what happened.

Hell? Yes? Completely unfair? Not really.

I look at Kerion again. "Once he did notice there's something wrong with me, do you think Lucifer would know where to look first?"

He nods. "Lucifer's had a few demon women chase after him, but Leyna's been the most aggressive. If he ever though someone's messed with his queen, he'd chase her down first."

My twisted gut has relaxed itself a bit. I've got a few safeguards on my side until I can get my body back, and Lucifer is far too intelligent to be fooled by Leyna's charade for very long. Once I catch her and get my old self back, I'll beat the shit out of her and toss her to Lucifer. But I have to hurry. Leyna must know I've awakened and figured out what happened. She knows I'm gunning for her, so she'll be trying to make the first move before I have a chance to kill her.

Silently, I shudder to think what will happen to her once she's been found out.

Behind me, Kerion sighs. "This isn't working. They should have left by now."

He's right. The hall is still swarming with demons. It should be barren by now, but they're staying for some reason and it's making me nervous. I shift on my feet, my gut twisting in anticipation of being discovered.

Kerion sighs again and inches forward, gently brushing against my arm as he crawls forward. "Come. We don't have time to wait for them to leave. There's obviously something keeping them here, and we'll never get your body back in time if we try to wait them out."

I freeze and stare at him. "I have to go out there?"

He nods. "I'm afraid so, your highness."

On cue, my stomach completes another back flip. "But what if someone notices that I'm not..."

He turns to look at me. There's a smile in his eyes that clams me a bit. "Leyna might be overly-ambitious, but she's smart enough to know her place when the time comes. She's still in training to become a full-fledged temptress, and all training succubae hold their gazes down when walking through the halls. Until they graduate to the likes of Babylon's whore, they're not allowed to make eye contact with higher ranking demons."

"Oh." I give a relieved sigh. If keeping my head down and my mouth shut will keep my alive, then that's a task I can easily accomplish.

"Just keep your head down and speak only when spoken to. You'll be fine."

Cautiously, he steps forward, barely stepping one slender leg into the mass of demons. He looks back at me and nods, ordering me to follow. I nod and take a deep breath, ducking my head and pulling an invisible zipper across my mouth. Kerion nods one last time and steps out into the crowded hall. I race after hum, bursting into the main corridor and instantly overcome by the noise.

Everyone is talking, and I can't make heads or tails of who's saying what. I shake off my momentary confusion and step up behind Kerion as he makes his way down the hall. I stay right behind him, staring at the marble floor as I follow Kerion through the crowd. He's obviously got some respect in this world; the demons that see him coming step out of the way and smile at him. Their smiles fade to frowns when I pass by, but I'm relieved to know they're not angry at me. It's Leyna they hate -- I'm just wearing her skin.

"Kerion," I risk a whisper. "Where are we going?"

"To Lilith. She's the only one that can help us."

I nearly screech to a halt. Lilith? She's going to help me? I hold back a burst of laughter. Lilith would never help me! She hates me too much to care about what happened with Leyna. With my luck, she probably planned the whole thing.

I scowl at the ground, seething that we have to ask Lilith for help. I'm honestly a little upset with Kerion, even though I know he has my best interests at heart. I don't want to see Lilith. Once we tell her what happened, she'll probably laugh at me, or attack me or-

"Kerion!"

A deep booming voice startles me. I glance up to see Belphagor rumbling towards us. He's bigger than I'd ever imagined him being, though I've only seen him sitting down at dinner. His ebony wings -- or what's left of them -- are folded against his back, his bright green eyes trained happily on the old spider.

"Where are you clambering off to?" He walks over and claps an enormous hand of Kerion's abdomen.

"Leyna and I have business with Lilith." Kerion sounds genuinely happy to see Belphagor. The two of them must go back a long time.

Belphagor's eyes flick to me and widen a bit. "What does Lilith want with her?"

"Nothing. We want to see Lilith?"

A burst of laughter rolls from the demon's mouth. "Why are you visiting that old crone? You may be one of the oldest of us here, old spider, but she's not going to pay you any respect."

Kerion nods. "Yes, I know. I'm used to her outlandish behavior. I wouldn't expect anything more from that spoiled brat. I do wish the master would put her in her place every once in a while."

A broad smile crosses Belphagor's lips. "He did! The bitch was fool enough to insult the queen. Lucifer nearly tore her head off! She scampered away as soon as dinner was over."

My stomach does a front flip this time. So the look of horror I saw on Lilith's face was real. My husband probably erupted at her for trying to tear me down. And by what I'm hearing, he scared the shit out of her. I smile to myself. It's nice to know I have a husband, fallen though he may be, who will defend me instead of letting the insults fly.

"Though, I'll admit, Lucifer didn't do all the work."

Kerion's eyes widen a bit in surprise. "How so?"

Belphagor's smile widens an inch. "The queen held her ground just fine. She was calm the entire way through, but she verbally scratched Lilith's face off. She's human, but she's a strong one. And that chest! I swear, old man, you could recite Shakespeare off that balcony!"

Pride bubbles to the surface. So Belphagor sees me as strong and sexy. Good, that means I've made a notable first-impression on the angel. My mix of politeness and strength has served me well. I hold back my smile, staring at the ground as the two males continue their talk.

"So, why is it you want to see Lilith?"

Kerion does his best interpretation of a shrug. "Leyna needs a bit more training before she graduates. I thought the whore queen herself could offer us a bit of advice."

Belphagor's eyes flick to me. I risk a glance up at him, biting my lip involuntarily as I do. Those green orbs narrow a bit in disgust, then soften suddenly. Then they widen, as if he's just realized something astounding. He cocks his head to the side, still staring at me but utterly confused.

He looks back at Kerion and speaks in a hushed voice. "Come with me." He spins and begins to make his way down the hall, parting through the sea of demons like he's Moses.

Kerion looks at me worriedly, but turns and follows Belphagor. I stay right behind him, walking just to the side of his abdomen so his body shields me from oncoming demons.

"Why is the hall so busy?" Kerion asks.

"Michael's arrival really set the boss off. We're taking refuge until his mood calms."

Shit. He's still angry. Damn it, Michael!

We walk through the demons, then take a sharp right down one of the many halls that lines the main corridor. We take another right and suddenly we're engulfed in pitch-black darkness. I grab onto Kerion's leg for support until my eyes adjust. They don't need to. Belphagor claps his hands and a little flame alights in the single sconce above us.

We're in a tiny alcove hidden between the walls of the fortress. In here, we're hidden from the view of the other demons and safe from suspicion.

Belphagor turns and starts at me, his eyes narrowing in anger and disbelief. "You tell me the truth, Kerion. This isn't Leyna." I stare at him, thunderstruck. My heart nearly stops beating and my lungs seize up. Can he see through Leyna's trick? How can he tell? Is he going to kill us?

Kerion steps forward. "Belphagor, what would make you think-"

The demon raises a hand, cutting of Kerion's words. "I said be honest. I've known that witch too long to be fooled. This woman is far too demure and quiet to be Leyna."

Shit.

So I've failed at pretending to be Leyna. I can only hope she's stumbling at being me as much as I am being her.

Kerion sighs. "Unfortunately, this isn't Leyna."

Belphagor glares at the old spider. "Then who is she?"

"That's quite a story, Bel. Perhaps one best suited for less hectic times," Kerion's struggling to push us forward, overpowered by the rank and power of the angel before us.

"I said be honest with me, old spider! Who is this girl?" Belphagor's furious now, annoyed that Kerion's avoiding the question.

You're queen, aren't you? Stand your ground, dummy.

I nod to myself and gather whatever strength I have left. Before Kerion can answer, I raise my head and look straight into Belphagor's eyes. "How dare you yell at him. He's done no harm to you, only offered me help. If you're so curious as to who I am, then question me!"

Those piercing green eyes widen in shock. My heart rate picks up again. I've stunned him enough to keep him from attacking Kerion, and I may also have set the stage for proving who I really am. If I can hold my ground for a bit longer, Belphagor might figure this out and offer us his help, too.

"You ask who I am. I am your queen, Belphagor. And while you are in my presence, whether I am in my body or not, you will show respect to Kerion. He has done more kindness to me than most humans have. You will not yell at him again, or you will face my wrath as well as my husband's."

Belphagor stands in stunned silence for a moment. Then his eyes narrow and his mouth turns down into a scowl. My throat locks up again, and I wonder if my attempt to prove myself has backfired and only pissed him off.

"How did she do it?" Belphagor's voice is low, furious...deadly.

It's my turn to be stunned, but this time it's out of relief. The gears in his head turned enough to put the pieces together, and now he's pissed at Leyna for switching bodies with me. Small wonder, since he probably hates Leyna as much as I do. She's probably slighted him or made derogatory comments about his character. Bitch.

I shake my head. "I don't know. She surprised me in the hallway, kissed me and took off with my body."

Belphagor snarls and slams his fist into the wall, causing the stones to shake and streams of dirt to pour onto my shoulders. "That bitch! I knew she was up to something!"

"That obvious, huh?" I ask softly.

He snorts angrily. "That woman has been plotting to take the master for centuries. Unfortunately, your majesty, as a human, you've provided her with the perfect chance. You're not demonic, so you have no defense against her tricks. Stealing your body was the simplest way she could get her prize without having to do anything to earn him."

I scowl at the ground. "So I was just her easy way out."

Belphagor nods apologetically. "Yes. Leyna has never liked actually doing any work, so in a twisted way, being a queen suits her well. But we know her well enough to never allow her to actually run for the position. With her in charge, nothing would get done, the master would be out of commission, and Hell would fall into ruins within months."

I stare at him, bewildered. "But I'm human. What makes me a better choice?"

"Because you are human," he smiles. "Firstly, the master has wanted to find a virgin girl to corrupt for centuries, so having you as a queen fits his fantasies perfectly. Second, you're far more balanced and dependable than Leyna, which means even if Lucifer gets taken out for a few days, you'll make sure things still run smoothly. That, and you've actually got a spine to you. You may be human, but you've got more credibility and strength in one finger than Leyna will ever have."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



Try as I may, I can't hold back my triumphant smile. One of my husband's right hand men has just solidified my status as queen and shot down Leyna in one blow. Maybe, just maybe, we can win this stupid game.

Kerion sighs in relief, then steps forward. "Belphagor, we're going to need your help if we're going to get Michelle's body back."

An award-winning smile crosses the fallen angel's face. "Of course! Anything to take out that evil witch and restore the crown to the rightful head. What can I do?"

"We know that even if Leyna does summon Michelle for an execution, it won't happen for at least a week while everything is sorted out. We need to make sure she never files that order in the first place. Can you and the other angels try to distract Lucifer from her until we can get Michelle back to normal?"

"But you can't tell Lucifer!" I interject without thinking. "We need to keep this quiet. If we tell him, he'll go nuts on Leyna and we might lose the chance of catching her by surprise. Please. I know it may be hard to keep this from your boss, but we need make sure Leyna has no idea we're coming." I look up at the hulking former angel pleadingly, hoping he'll understand.

Belphagor's brilliant green eyes shift to me. With a soft, knowing smile, she inclines his had, gently grasps my hand and kisses it lightly. "For my queen, anything. Neither Lucifer nor Leyna will know of this until the time is right."

I smile back at him and nod regally in reply. "I really appreciate your help. When this is resolved, I'll tell Lucifer how much of a help you were."

His eyes light up. "You're honest?"

I nod. "I'm a human, not a demon or trickster. I'll keep my word if you keep yours."

He nods again. "My lady, I have seen your strength and fortitude. Crossing you would be the last thing I would ever want to do."

I'm not sure if I should be proud or worried. Being respected is a good thing, but feared? I don't want this fallen angel to be frightened of me just because I have Lucifer's ear. All I want is a little help and courtesy, which I'm luckily getting.

I smile at Belphagor. "For a demon, you're very gracious."

His smile is warm. "There are some of us who still remember the old ways. Before we fell, courtesy and kindness were the norm. And while we may not be so gentle now, we've carried a bit of our teaching down here with us. Lucifer is the most insistent about using our manners."

My eyebrows raise an inch. "Really?"

Unexpected, but definitely noticeable.

He nods. "He's more of a gentleman than most pastors would like to admit. He is the oldest of us, so it only makes sense that he keeps us in line and keeps the ship running straight. Mostly, I think he uses his impeccable etiquette to throw people off. It catches them off guard and sets them up for failure. But around you, my lady, I think it's an honest attempt to treat you fairly and respectfully."

I eye him curiously. "Fairly?"

Belphagor shrugs. "He's a trickster by nature, but he views you as a worthy queen and someone who can tow the line as well as he can. Despite your humanness, he honestly sees you as someone to be respected and praised. If you can show your spine against Lilith, he's sure you can handle anything."

My heart and my pride swell simultaneously. It's wonderful to hear I have a husband who will not only defend me, but respect me as well. If I've earned his stamp of approval, I'm practically set for life.

Kerion clears his throat. "Time is of the essence, you two. Even though Leyna won't have a good chance at having you executed, she can still try to manipulate the system to block our attempts of getting you back to normal."

Shit. Right, time to refocus.

I turn back to Belphagor, my mind resetting and my shoulders straightening. I flip my now-red hair back from my face and gather my queenly strength. "Belphagor, I need you to gather the other fallen angels and explain what's happened. Again, don't let any of them go running off to tell Lucifer, but they need to know what's going on so Leyna doesn't try to lead them astray. See what you can do about stalling any of her attempts to have me killed or tossed out of here."

He grins and bows regally, taking my hand and kissing it gently. "My lady, no order of hers will pass through the Counsil doors."

"I really appreciate this," I smile back.

He straightens, still grinning. "For the rightful queen, anything."

"Excellent," Kerion interjects. "Now go. Make sure no word of this gets past the angels."

Belphagor nods, gives me one last warm smile, then turns and bolts out the small alcove and into the river of demons. Kerion and I peek around the corner and watch him disappear into the endless bodies.

"You think he'll keep his word?" As much as I trust Belphagor, a tiny sliver of doubt creeps into my mind, making me wonder if we've actually gained another enemy rather than an ally.

"Belphagor is one of the most virulent supports of Lucifer's rule. He also respects and admires you, so we're in good hands. If he did turn on us and Lucifer were to find out, the master would have his head."

I nod, the knot of unease slowly unraveling. Quietly, Kerion steps around me and crawls forward, looking back and beckoning me to follow.

"Come. We must see Lilith. Even with Belphagor and the other angels, it may not be enough to convince Lucifer of the truth. As annoyingly spoiled and arrogant as she is, she still holds a high place in Lucifer's court. With her, we'll have a better chance of winning this game."

I nod and step forward, though I'm not very happy about what we're gong to do. Lilith envies me and wants me dead as much as Leyna does; she simply more aristocratic and sly than her emotional doppelganger. Asking for her help will be like asking my mother to give up her collection of antique dolls. Honestly, she'd rather die.

We approach the opening that leads to the main hall. It's still chock full of demons, but we've managed to slip in before, so this time should be easy. Kerion checks on me one last time before sliding out into the fray. I follow right behind him, keeping my head down and my mouth shut.

The sound of endless demon voices is almost deafening, but I stay one step behind Kerion as we make our way through the mass of bodies. Like before, the demons that see us coming smile and step aside, clearing a path for us to walk. They ignore me, and I ignore them. None of them actually know what's happened, so to them I'm still a man-eating spoiled brat who hasn't learned her place yet. I harbor no anger or irritation towards any of them. How could they know we've switched forms?

I shrug to myself and keep pace with Kerion. If I can successfully play my part, we'll get out of here and make it to Lilith without a scratch. If not...I'm fucked.

"Come on, Leyna!" Kerion looks back and barks at me. "I won't keep Lilith waiting just because you're having another tantrum."

Once again, my four years of high school drama class kick in. I scowl at the ground, though I flick my eyes up to glare at him. I lift the hem of my dress from the ground and 'begrudgingly' pick up my pace, hoping that my impression of Leyna is enough to convince the mass of demons that surround us. It seems to work; most of the demons either ignore me or shoot me a disgusted glance.

They're lucky this is all a ruse. If they had done that to me while I was still queen, Lucifer would have their heads.

My heart aching from the idea of insulting my subjects, I manage to sneer back at them as I follow Kerion down the hall. We take a sharp turn down another dimly lit hallway, the immediately swing right, stopping just before a pair of enormous carved oak doors. Images of fornicating demons and impaled human souls stretch across the dark surfaces, catching the light of the sconces just right so that it makes them look even more menacing,

Kerion steps forward and taps on one of the doors, the sound echoing through the small hallway.

"What?!" Lilith's sharp, angry voice rolls through the wood, making me jump back in surprise.

"Don't give me attitude, little girl!" Kerion roars back. "You and I must have words."

There's a soft exasperated sigh, like the ones a teenager gives their parents when being scolded. "Fine!"

The doors swing in, revealing an enormous marble-lined room that mirrors the main foyer. The marble is a softer green rather than black and grey, and there's only one small throne in the middle of the room. Dozens of training succubae mill about the room, chatting to each other and gazing at us curiously as we enter

Lilith reclines in the main chair, her lavender Grecian gown spilling over the twisting metal edges and pooling on the floor around her bare feet. A thin gold tiara adorns her head, almost melding perfectly with her thick blonde hair. Her dark blue eyes flick to us, narrowing when they see me. Her full lips twist into a wicked smile as we near her chair.

"Girls," she calls out. "You're dismissed for now."

The mass of succubae all nod in unison and stream past us out the doors. One girl with short-cropped red hair smiles devilishly at me and feigns accidentally slamming into me on her way out. I react the only way I can think Leyna would: I 'accidentally' bump her back, catching her off balance and nearly sending her to the ground. She glares at me as she exits into the hallway. I smile back, waving at her as the doors close.

The doors close as the final succubus exit the room, leaving Kerion and I alone with Lilith. The bitch queen sighs dramatically and slumps back into her chair, twirling a lock of her hair between her fingers. Her eyes never leave me, and I give her the same courtesy by glaring at her with everything I've got.

Her lips turn up in a sarcastic smile, and her gaze moves to Kerion. "So what is it you what, old spider?"

Kerion steps forward, clearly unaffected by her power and age. "We need your help, Lilith."

She throws her head back and gives a sharp laugh. "You! Need my help! The great, wise Kerion comes crawling to me for assistance? Oh, this is perfect!"

Kerion remains still, unfazed. "Yes, you insolent little brat. We need your help."

Lilith's laughter stops abruptly, and she snaps her head forward to glare at him. "Brat, you say?"

Looks like it to me.

She gives us another sarcastic smile. "If anyone in this place is a brat, it's the new queen." She sneers to herself. "She's a fucking human, and yet Lucifer's practically drooling over her."

That's right. He's nuts about a human, not you. I'm barely able to hold back my smile.

"I know your attitude, Lilith, but have a little respect for Michelle." Kerion's voice is irritated. "She may be human, but she's gotten closer to the master than anyone."

Lilith's sneer remains. "Only because of her tits."

"Beside the point," Kerion stops another rant from starting. "You're only upset because your childishness keeps you from accepting defeat. Had you matured a bit more, or tried to act like a woman, you'd have moved on by now."

She sulks like the child she is. "I am not jealous!"

Kerion shrugs. "Then move forward and hear us out."

"Fine," she spits, crossing her arms over her chest and glaring at us.

I barely keep myself from rolling my eyes. For someone as formidable and infamous as Lilith, she acts like a rotten brat. I suddenly realize that she's much like my mother, only worse. Both of them are only happy when things go their way, otherwise they sit and whine for the entire day until someone finally acquiesces to their demands to shut them up. Lilith's not a scary as I had originally thought, just really annoying.

Kerion clears his throat and steps forward. "The queen's been replaced."

Lilith stares at him, slightly dumbfounded. "What?"

"Leyna's found a way to switch bodies with Michelle. She's parading around as the queen."

Lilith's eyes widen, flicking from Kerion to me. "Leyna's right there!"

For the first time that I've been wearing this skin, I'm indignant. "I'm not Leyna!"

Lilith's eyes shoot to me, widening then narrowing in confusion. "Yes, you are, you ambitious little whore! Don't play games with me!"

Kerion shakes his massive head. "No, she's not, Lilith. This isn't Leyna. This is Michelle in Leyna's body."

There's a silence as the two of us wait for her answer. Lilith continues to stare at me, switching from outraged to confused and every emotion in between. Finally, she sighs and sits back in her chair, lacing her long fingers together and closing her eyes.

"So the bitch finally got away with it," she whispers.

Kerion, as relieved as I am, nods. "Yes. She managed to catch Michelle off guard and switch bodies with her. I witnessed the entire thing, Lilith. Take my word for it when I say this is not Leyna."

And she's prancing around with my husband!

Lilith's eyes open, sliding to me. "So this is the new Michelle?"

"New?" I stare at her, confused. "You think that just because I'm not in my body I'm just some replaceable thing?"

Her evil smile returns. "As far as I'm concerned, you're not my queen right now. No crown, no queen."

Oh, super bitch. I've had enough of you.

The boost in self-esteem and pride I've gained from being queen comes roaring to the surface, giving me a much-needed blast of strength. Unfortunately, my defensiveness rises too, along with my competitiveness. "Come down off that chair and say that to my face."

Lilith stares at me for an instant, caught off guard by my challenge. Her smile returns anyway. "At least I'm in a throne. You seem to have lost yours. And to a succubus, no less." I'm hurt, but not surprised. Lilith may have the body of a woman, but like most of the girls I went to high school with, she's got the mentality of a spoiled kindergartner. Luckily, I've dealt with this type of personality before, so I know just how to handle myself.

"Fine, then. Since you're too much of a coward to come down here, I'll come to you."

Before Kerion can step between us, I make my way toward Lilith's chair. She bolts upright and glares at me, outraged that I would dare challenge her. But in her eyes, I can see fear and uneasiness. She's unused to someone not taking her word as a final answer, so seeing me walk towards her with pure determination and frustration is a shock to her.

I stop a foot before her chair, staring down at my most powerful adversary. In this body, I'm weak and can't defend myself. But my soul is the exact same as before, so I can and will stand my ground no matter who I look like. If that means I have to fight Lilith head-on, so be it.

"As your queen, I'm giving you an order," I make my tone as steady and even as I can. "Say that to my face."

Furious, Lilith rises from her chair and looks me dead in the eye. In Leyna's body, we're evenly matched in height; if I were in my body, she'd have to look up slightly. But here and now, we're on even ground. No unfair height differences, no fights over whose boobs are bigger. It's just the two of us staring at each other and fighting it out like normal, hell-born women.

"I said," she rolls the words in her mouth, savoring their taste. "You're not my queen."

My mask of cool composure never shifts. "Fine. Than I refuse to recognize you as my superior as well.".

She pulls back an inch, indignant. "How dare you! I watch over ever succubus that comes through here!"

I shrug. "But I'm not a succubus. Like it or not, I'm your queen. I may be in a different body, but I still rule this place."

She smiles at me again. "Only until Lucifer figures out what happened. One he realizes the woman he's sleeping with isn't you, he'll toss her and your body into the fire pits. Which means you'll be stuck here in Leyna's body and Lucifer will be free game."

For the second time in my life, I explode on Lilith with full force.

"You spoiled, rotten little whore! How dare you presume me to be so weak that I would roll over and allow myself to be cast aside! After all I've gone through! After all the shit that's been dumped on me! I don't care if you were born and raised in the dirtiest slum in Jerusalem! Your queen has been replaced, hell is going down the drain, and all you can think of is yourself!"

She steps back a foot, trying to retreat but having nowhere to run. Her eyes are wide, filled with shock and horror. Exactly what I want.

"Being soulless and empty is no excuse for acting like a trashy, spoiled child. Lucifer is your master. Your obligation in life is to defend him at any cost, even if that means putting up with me. Now, I give you a choice. Either rise above your childish behavior and act like a woman who's worthy of your position, or continue with your games and see your master and your world fall to pieces."

My heart is pounding, and my pride and anger has swelled beyond the confines of my tiny frame, but I don't care. I've said my piece. The ball's in Lilith's court now, and it's up to her to decide if she wants to make or breaks us.

She stares at me for a moment, her eyes still wide and fearful. Slowly, though, her face returns to its normal snobbish appearance. A sly smile breaks on her lips, and she gives a quiet laugh.

"You've got a backbone, I'll give you that." Her smile never fades. "You're human, but at least you've got some strength to you."

"Damn straight." My defensiveness has subsided, but my irritation remains on full blast. "I say again, chose your path. Either find yourself under the rule of a highly unstable succubus who's willing to let your world fall into ruin, or helps us save it."

She half-scoffs, half-laughs at my order. "Oh, sweet Michelle. Thinking she has the power to rule our world. Such a simple little human girl." She steps forward, closing the tiny distance between us. Her smile widens, becoming more sinister and ugly.

"You really think he cares about you? About a mortal girl who has no business holding the queen's throne? No, he doesn't give a shit about you. You're just a silly little toy he brought down here to play with, not a queen. You don't deserve him like even Leyna does. At least she's a fucking demon. But you...so simple, so quiet, so weak. You don't have what it takes to rule over us. And once Leyna signs that execution order, I'll never have to deal with your stinky, worthless-"

I don't let her finish. Cocking my arm back, I swing as hard as I can and smack her across the face. She squeals and stumbles backwards, cupping her cheek in her palm. Somehow, I manage to keep myself from exploding in rage, but I'm more than done with this bitch. She's obviously too absorbed in her own chance of stealing Lucifer to care about Hell falling into Leyna's hands.

Fine, then. I'll do it myself.

Spinning around, I walk away from Leyna and her exquisite throne, striding across the marble floor with my head held high. I pass by Kerion, who watches in amazement as I dare to turn my back on one of the most powerful demons here.

"Come on, Kerion," I call as I make my way to the doors. "She's not going to help us."

Without hesitation, Kerion nods and follows behind me. Without having to look, I know Lilith has recovered behind me and is glaring daggers at my back. I don't care. She's not going to help me save my home or my husband, so she can rot in Heaven for all I care.

"Kerion!" she calls after us. "You're going to follow her?"

Kerion stops and turns to face Lilith. I do the same, partly because I want to wait for my friend and partly because I want to watch the fireworks.

Kerion nods to Lilith. "Yes. Unlike you, Lilith, my loyalties are set with those who have offered me help and kindness, not privilege and power. You choose to sacrifice our world and our master for your own petty jealousies. Your selfishness with be your end someday, and Michelle and I will be there to laugh as you tumble from absolute power into oblivion."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



Having said his piece, Kerion turns back toward me and crawls across the marble to the doors. Lilith stands by her throne, staring wide-eyed at the two of us. She's never been called out before by anyone, and now she's just been blasted by a human and a very powerful spider. We've knocked her off balance a bit. Good.

"Ah, one final thing..." Kerion never turns around as he addresses Lilith. "If Michelle and I do manage to recover ourselves and fix this mess that Leyna's set up for us, I'll be sure to tell Lucifer how very helpful you were."

I smile as her jaw hits the floor. Kerion threw out an amazing last card. The threat of facing my wrath might not be enough to frighten her, but facing my husband's wrath leaves her speechless. Risking facing his anger just to be spiteful is suicide on her part. I watch her lip tremble as she considers just how bad Lucifer's eruption might be.

Knowing my husband and the situation we're in, it's probably going to be epic.

Forgetting to take one last look at her, I spin on my toes and stride out the doors. Kerion follows close behind me, his head held almost as high as mine. We may not have succeeded in gaining Lilith's help, but we definitely left one hell of a soul-searching session for her. I celebrate quietly as we turn back into the main hallway. I showed her my backbone twice now, so she knows that I'm ready and willing to use it.

The main hall is empty now, almost deathly silent compared to when we first entered here. I'm relieved; Kerion and I can talk in peace now without being questioned or berated by an overly-curious demon.

One of his long, slender legs strokes my back as we walk. "You did very well back there. I can see why the master trusts you so much."

I smile back. "You weren't so bad yourself."

"Gah, that woman is nothing to me. I've dealt with her on a few more childish occasions than that. We're all used to it now."

Lilith can get more childish?

I sigh and stare at the ground as we walk. "It's sad that she's willing to sacrifice her entire world just to see me miserable."

"That creature would sell her own mother to gain power," Kerion adds.

"Shit. Even I wouldn't go that far, and my mother's the one who got me into this mess."

My stomach turns at the thought. Mom's a little self-absorbed, but I'd never toss her into the pits for money or power. Not that I'd ever need to; her greed got me Lucifer and a crown, so I'm practically set. But I know her. Greedy as she is, I'm still her daughter, and there's been more than one occasion where she's gone ballistic on someone because they messed with me. She's a mess, but if I were in trouble, she would care enough about me to push Lilith into the fire first.

"Some people are users and abusers, nothing more." Kerion sighs along with me. "But we may have a chance with that last threat. As insatiable and self-centered as she is, Lilith's no fool. She knows that once the master find out what happened, he'll figure out that she never helped us when she had the chance. She's risking her black soul to spite you."

"Well...I guess that's good." My stomach is still turning from the thought of my mother. I wonder how she is. I haven't seen her since she was presented to me. I hope she's okay through all of this. I'd hate to lose her because Leyna and Lilith want my Husband more then Hell.

"It will certainly give her something to ponder."

I swallow whatever fear I have and straighten my spine. I set my eyes straight forward, staring down the hallway in the direction of my bedroom. Down there, my unknowing husband and my evil hyper-bitch doppelganger wait for me. I'm scared to fight her, but I have no choice. It's do-or-die time, and I'm ready to do.

"Well, until Lilith decides to help us, we do this alone."

Kerion nods and follows closely behind me, ready to sacrifice life and limb for a queen he barely knows. Loyalty at it's best.

* * *

Motherfucker.

The thought was angry, filled with hatred and disgust. And for good reason. That idiot Bradfield dared to show his spoiled face again, demanding yet another chance with Michelle and taunting him with his own twisted ideas of superiority and power.

It was a miracle in itself that Lucifer didn't kill the boy this time.

Instead, all it took was a few bursts of fire and another round of degradation to send the idiot packing. A spoiled little shit with a mouth to match, but completely lacking backbone or the ability to defend himself. It amazed Lucifer that this boy's face was still intact; surely he'd pissed off enough people with that attitude to warrant a few good beatings.

The old angel sighed. He didn't know why he spared the boy's life. It wasn't in his nature to do so. If he did things his way, that brat would be a soot stain on the marble flooring. But no. Something was holding him back from incinerating the child. Something strong, powerful and beautiful.

Ah, that's it. Killing him would upset Michelle.

He stopped, standing completely still in he empty hallway, his mind spinning and his emotions going haywire. Since when did he care about a human's emotions? After millennia of manipulating and seducing them to their dooms, he now suddenly cared for how his queen might feel.

But why? True, Michelle was his queen, but she was still human. Skinny, weak by comparison and completely unacquainted with the rules of this realm. It shouldn't matter what she thought of his actions. All she needed to do was keep his bed warm and the spare throne occupied. Her thought and emotions shouldn't have even been considered on the issue.

Unfortunately, they were. As much as he hated to admit it, Michelle did have a certain charm that left his head spinning and his knees weak. She could tempt him into anything, even a round of rough sex minutes after spilling his heart into that bath. She could tease him, taunt him and toy with him. And every time, he fell for it and ran straight into her arms.

Lucifer sighed and continued his languid pace. A human... millions of years later and it was a human that brought him to his knees. Not Michael, not his father. A teenage human girl from Arizona with long, dark hair and eyes that pierced through his rotten soul.

Women.

As much as he filled his thoughts with anger and frustration, he knew he could never deny that woman anything. She held what was left of his heart in her soft, warm hands, and she wasn't letting go for blood, flood or fire.

Not that he minded being entranced by her. Michelle was a knockout in her own right. Long legs, soft skin, eyes that burned through him and a rack he could springboard from. She was by no means as famous as Gisele Bündchen-- poor Gisele could never compare to his lithe, ample queen -- but she was more than tempting enough to draw his eyes during even the most crucial of conversations.

But it was more, much more than her simple appeal or her ability to coax him into anything. Michelle cared for him, taking the time to let him rant and pour his heart out when no one else would care to listen. She'd shown him kindness and sympathy when no one else dared to. She kept repeating how much she loved him, how much she wanted him, and how much she never wanted to hurt him. How she would never leave him until he tried to harm her.

She'd promised that. No one had ever promised him that. Even his father had abandoned him, and for the slightest of reasons. But Michelle...she had more courage and heart in her than most demons. She'd charmed Beelzebub and the others, and managed to put Lilith in her place, so she couldn't be completely foolish and incompetent. In truth, she was anything but. After spending only a week being married to her, Lucifer could tell she was more than able to hold the reigns of his kingdom. If Michael somehow managed to take him out for a moment, Michelle would make sure the ship stayed afloat.

It was a deadly mix of beauty, strength and kindness that made him lose all thought and spill his soul. She had the power and the skills to make him do anything she wanted but never took advantage of them. Yet she was a genuinely sweet soul who only asked form him to share the bed and speak his thoughts.

"Alright, fine! I love the woman!" He yelled the words into the empty air. "There! Satisfied?"

In a strange way, the silence almost was.

He sighed and kicked at a small stone as he walked. That woman was intoxicating, almost annoyingly so. But she was kind and gentle enough not to drive him mad. Unlike that damned Leyna...

Disgusting witch.

He shivered at the thought of the wretched creature. Arrogant, idiotic and beyond infuriating, she would stop at nothing to gain his attention. It wasn't Leyna's looks or body that repelled him, it was her attitude. Her pride and vanity rivaled Lilith herself, but her lower rank made it all the more annoying. That, and she constantly degraded Michelle simply for being human. He growled to himself, barely resisting the urge to slam his fist into the wall.

She could at least find a good argument.

Indeed. Michelle being a human wasn't grounds to expel her as queen. Had she been inept or cowardly, Leyna would have had a stronger choice of argument. Unfortunately, the bitch wasn't bright enough to think that deeply and Michelle possessed none of the qualities that might warrant an expulsion. Luck and the fates favored Michelle.

Lucifer closed his eyes and shook his head, trying to clear Leyna and that human boy from his mind. Instead, he focused on Michelle. She'd left dinner so quickly -- granted, Lilith had overstepped her boundaries and was rightly punished for it -- and left him almost aching for her presence. He'd thought about her soft body throughout the entire meal, fighting the urge to exit the room and shoot off a round and relieve himself. Instead, he forced himself to focus on the dinner's conversations, promising himself that he would let loose with his queen as soon as the meal had ended.

The sudden reminder of sweet relief had him quickening his pace. The very idea of Michelle naked underneath him was enough to make his cock rise.

Fuck it. That woman's got me hook, line and sinker.

He nearly ran down the hallway, his mind trained on the prospect of having Michelle's tight, sweet body caressing his. The memory of their first coupling nearly drove him mad: the heat, the slickness, her sharp cries of pleasure. They way her hips swayed with every thrust, long strands of her hair plastered to her flesh. It was beautiful and maddening and perfect all at once. And she was a virgin. Even better.

The images drove him on, forcing him to pick up speed. A trail of fire marked his path along the smooth marble floor, a few feathers breaking off from his wings as he ran. Rounding the last corner, he screeched to a halt, stopping just inches from the enormous door. His lust nearly setting the place ablaze, Lucifer's hand shot out and gripped the handle jerking back sharply and pulling it wide open.

"Michelle!" He stepped through the doorway, slamming the heavy wooden barrier behind him.

Confusion stopped him from hauling her onto his shoulder and throwing her onto the bed. Michelle stood before the open wardrobe, stark naked and rummaging through the endless racks of clothing. Every so often she would pullout a piece of filmy lingerie or an elaborate dress, holding them up to her chest and smiling at the mirrors that lined the armoire's doors.

She should be in bed.

Lucifer stared at her, confused and unsure of how to act. She'd said she wanted a bath and to sleep, yet there was no smell of soap or wild hair that would suggest that she did either. She spun around while holding a dress against her breasts, admiring herself in the mirror as if she were a nymph. She might as well be. Her waist was lithe but strong. Her long legs, slender yet exquisitely muscled, entranced him as he stared. Her firm ass silently beckoned him closer.

Fuck. I could bounce a quarter off that ass.

She laughed softly to herself, a sound that sent a shiver up his spine. It was high-pitched, light and airy...triumphant, almost. As if she'd just conquered a great enemy and was celebrating by herself.

Something in his mind shifted, a small warning light beginning to flicker. This was so...un-Michelle. She would never normally play with her clothing so childishly or ignore his call so blatantly. And that laugh...

He shook his head, banishing all negative thoughts from his mind. Of course this was Michelle. Her behavior, was strange, yes, but not unexpected. It was the only time she'd ever been by herself, so it was only normal that she'd explore. Her laugh must be from excitement. After all, she did conquer him in a way that no creature had, so she had plenty to be happy about.

He cleared his throat, a smile slowly returning to his face. "Michelle?"

She gasped and spun around, clutching a delicately embroidered gown to her chest. Her hazel eyes were wide with fear and shock, the softened to curious. A tiny, surprised smile broke onto her lips, and she giggled again softly.

Another warning light began to flicker. She looked at him as if she couldn't believe he was here. Such curiosity, such surprise. Like this was the first time she'd seen him. She was so shy now; no running at him and tackling him to the ground, no sarcastically playful greeting, no seductive smiles meant to entice him close. No, she acted as if... as if she'd never believed him real.

She gave a soft laugh and she her head slightly. "Hello, darling."

Darling?

A myriad of red flags now sprung up in his mind. She'd never called him darling or been this surprised to see him or acted so childishly. His head spun, trying to connect puzzle pieces that weren't made for each other.

What the fuck is wrong with her?

Her shy smile faded, replaced with a look of concern. "Sweetheart? What's wrong?"

Another pet name? Lucifer shook his head vigorously, trying and failing to make what he knew of Michelle and the things he was seeing now meld. None of the pieces matched, and the puzzle started to crumble in his hands. His heart began to race, doubts about the woman he was with starting to bubble up from the pits of his soul. What if she really was this childish, and her calm demeanor and dark intelligence was all an act?

Michelle's lovely face dropped even more. Skittishly, she dropped the dress to the floor and stepped over the piles of clothing on the floor, slowly making her way towards him. All thought in Lucifer's head stopped. As she walked, her fantastic tits bounced and jiggled, drawing his eyes -- and his thoughts -- away from his inner turmoil.

Mother of fuck, they're gorgeous.

As he watched, he noticed her breasts were curiously absent of their delicate piercings. He knew they'd caused her some discomfort when he'd first given them to her, but Michelle was not one to take out something so freely given. That sent another warning off in his head, but the movement and bounce of her tits quieted its harsh ring.

She closed the distance between them and stepped up close, pressing her magnificent breasts against his chest. Her warm flesh seared his own flesh just as his icy coldness made her nipples pucker. A tiny smile bloomed on his face. She may be acting strangely, but she hadn't lost her touch.

Warm, slender arms looped around his neck as her long, lean legs stretching up so she could see him better. Thin, flexible fingers wove into his hair, gently tugging and spinning teasing little circles along his scalp.

"What's wrong?" Her voice was soft and playful.

He sighed and shook his head, smiling. "Nothing."

Her eyes brightened a bit. "Good. I'd hate to see my gorgeous husband looking so upset. It mars your pretty face."

Giving a soft laugh, Lucifer smiled and dipped his head. She inclined hers, allowing their lips to touch, then slowly meld together. It was a long, slow, passionate kiss - a good one by all standards, but yet another warning went off in his head. She wasn't as playful as usual. She let him do every movement, never spiking her tongue into his mouth or nipping his lip to tease him. His old doubts reared their ugly heads again, stronger and more insistent than before.

Groaning, he broke their kiss earlier than he usually would. Something about Michelle tonight was rubbing him the wrong way. She was off, very off. Off enough to make even him uneasy.

"Hey." Her hands reached up to cup his face. "What is it?"

He sighed. "Nothing. Just stress."

"Oh," she purred. "Stress about what?"

"Belphagor needed help handling a few late debts," he grumbled. "I swear, those damn royals are a pain in my ass."

Michelle scoffed. "Belphagor? Can't that old bastard do it himself?"

He stared at her, dumbfounded and horrified. "Michelle?"

"You'd think after running that circle all that time that he could do something without your help." She sneered to herself. "I think he might have worked past his time, Lucifer. Maybe you should start thinking about hiring someone else to fill his spot."

Lucifer's mind screeched to a halt. Since when did his sweet, respectful wife ever bitch about one of his top commanders? Never. She'd shown Belphagor and the others more than enough grace at the dinner table, earning her their rarely-seen instantaneous respect. The final warning light was lit, causing Lucifer pulled away from her. Something wasn't right. Physically, she was fine, but emotionally and mentally this wasn't Michelle.

Grunting out of frustration and confusion, he stepped away and strode towards the bed, trying to find a clear space in the room for him to think. He didn't get far. Michelle followed right behind him, berating him with questions. She seemed almost frantic, less worried about his mental health and more worried about him pulling away.

"Lucifer! What's wrong? What did I do?"

He groaned to himself, his mind bombarded with conflicting thoughts: the possibility that this woman wasn't really Michelle, and the horror of admitting such an awful idea.

Warm arms looped around his waist, pulling him tight against her lithe frame. Her head rested against his back. One hands trailed down to the top of his jeans, toying with the thick fabric and stroking his flesh.

"Please. Tell me what's wrong," she pleaded. "Lucifer."

The warning lights grew louder and brighter, his own gut beginning to twist in horror. She was too forward here, to desperate to calm his nerves. She wasn't listening; she wasn't letting him vent his thoughts like she always did. She was trying to keep them in, trying to use her body to make him forget his discomfort.

Her fingers dipped lower, teasing the edge of his pants. The threatened to slip low, low into the dark abyss where his most precious weapon lay. Normally, he would have welcomed such an intrusion, but not today, not now. His mind was reeling, hit emotions boiling. Now was not the time for games.

"Stop." His voice was low, but stern enough for her to hear. "You are not yourself."

She scoffed. "You are not yourself. What's wrong with you? I'm standing here naked and all you can do is pull away from me. Don't you want me? Don't you love me?" Her voice was whiney, like a child's when they didn't get a toy.

"Yes, of course. But I would love you more if you behaved like your normal self!" he snapped.

She pulled her hands back. "My normal self?"

He stilled. She sounded confused, almost lost at his words. As if she didn't know what her normal self was.

Silence followed for a moment, then the feeling of her warm skin disappeared from his back, leaving him cold and strangely alone.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



"Fine, I see." Her tone was angry, almost bitchy. "It's that Leyna girl, isn't it?"

Leyna? What does she have to do with this?

Michelle sniffed quietly behind him. "You love her, don't you?"

Shaken, angry and utterly confused, Lucifer turned to face his queen. She stared up at him with wide hazel eyes, more saddened than angry. Her lower lip quivered slightly as if from pain, but no heartache rested in her eyes, they were curiously empty, bereft of all emotion except for a cunning slyness that made his skin crawl.

He shook his head slowly, the pieces starting to fall into place. "Michelle, no. I despise that woman. She's a rotten, selfish little shit. I couldn't care about her I tried. She's been after me for centuries, and she can't accept that she's not my queen but you are."

For an instant, Michelle pulled back. Her eyes showed confusion, almost hurt buy his words. "You hate her?" Her voice was hopeless, as if praying for the opposite answer.

He nodded. "Yes. I love you, not Leyna. Not Lilith. You have so much more than Leyna could ever have, no matter how hard she tires..."

The final piece of the puzzle slid into place. Leyna! Of course! That witch would do anything to further her own ambitions, and casting spells was by no means below her.

That's it, then. That whore did something to her that set her off balance.

His rage nearly making his skin boil, Lucifer gave a sharp growl and spun towards the door. He stormed across the smooth tile, his mind once against set one a single target: finding Leyna. He reached the door and grasped the handle, throwing it wide open as he began to step into the hall.

"Lucifer! Where are you going?"

He never looked back. "To find Leyna. Whatever that bitch did to you, I'm going to fix it."

"Wait!"

She raced to him, gripping his shoulders and spinning him around. Caught off guard, he stayed still just long enough for her to sink to her knees and start her fingers working at his pants.

Her warm hazel eyes flicked to him, a playful smile on her lips. "You've had such a long, shit day. Let me help you relax."

"Michelle!" He shouted at her, not meaning to frighten but to stun. He had to leave and find Leyna and figure out what the fuck was wrong.

She was so nervous, her fingers couldn't undo his jeans. Nevertheless, she kept her winning smile trained on him. "Please? You know I love it."

This isn't my Michelle. Leyna's done something to her. That witch.

"Not now! Once I find Leyna, you can suck all you like." He shook his head, stepping back out of her reach. Spinning, he gripped the handle of the door in his hands and pulled it shut as he stepped into the hall.

"NO! Lucifer, you-"

He slammed the door behind him, cutting off her pleas. He tapped the smooth wood with his fingers, hearing the massive locks click into place. She would be safer here, locked away where Leyna couldn't reach here again.

Satisfied, Lucifer turned and strode down the main corridor, his blood boiling and his mind racing. If Leyna really did cast a spell on Michelle, he'd have her executed for treason and cast into the pits. His footsteps echoed around the solid rock, his only company besides his fury.

All he needed was to do was find Leyna and then Michelle would be back to normal...hopefully.

* * *

Kerion and I continue to make our way down the empty hall. My mind is racing, trying to formulate a plan that will fix this mess. Lilith's abandoned us because she hates me, but we do have Belphagor and the other fallen angels on our team, so we're not completely alone. But we still don't have a game plan for how we're going to take Leyna down. For now, we're just going to have to think as we go.

"You think Lilith will change her mind?" I ask softly, already knowing the answer.

Kerion shakes his head. "I doubt it. The threat of Lucifer's wrath is enormous, but I guarantee the Lilith's pride and selfishness will win out in the end."

I sigh softly and hang my head an inch. "Sad, isn't it? She's willing to be killed by Lucifer just to see me miserable."

Kerion strokes my back with one of his legs. "Lilith's nothing more than a woman's body with a child's mind. Lucifer will never kill her -- she's far too high in the ranks for him to punish her that harshly. But I promise you, he will make her life far, far worse once he finds out about her betrayal."

I shoot him a confused look. "Betrayal? All she did was laugh at me. I don't think that counts as stabbing someone in the back."

Kerion shakes his head. "Don't take this the wrong way, you majesty, but the betrayal is not towards you. It's towards Lucifer and the kingdom of Hell itself."

"How so?" Not towards me? Now I'm curious.

"Human though you may be, you are queen here. It's the duty of every demon and fallen angel to protect you and Lucifer at any cost. Lilith turning her back on us is going against the highest rules we have. She's not only slighting you, but Lucifer, the fallen angels and every demon that resides here. She's disregarding, even sacrificing, every life here to further her own ambition. According to our laws, that's treason."

Oh. Shit.

I stare dumbfounded at Kerion. I know Lilith is selfish and nasty, but I never imagined that she'd go that far. Practically turning her back on Lucifer just to see me suffer! She's not just cruel, she's psychotic.

Even mom's not that bad.

I sigh again and stare down the hallway. So my greatest enemy is willing to risk her own life, and everyone else's apparently, just to spite me. Well, at least Belphagor and the others are loyal. I shake off my surprise and brush the dirt from my shoulder. If Lilith wants to leave us out in the cold, fine. I'll be sure to tell Lucifer how much 'help' she gave us.

"Alright," I start slowly. "What now? Lilith's given us the middle finger and Leyna's got my husband. But Belphagor and the other fallen angels are on our side. Do you think we have a shot at winning this?"

Kerion's silent for a moment. "We might. If the angels do their job well, Leyna won't be able to send out an execution order. That gives us the upper hand in this fight, but it won't guarantee victory."

"You're right," My mood suddenly turns sour. "Lilith might side with Leyna jut to fuck with me."

"Unfortunately, yes. That kind of subversion is not below her."

"Fine, then," I spit the words at the ground. "We'll do it alone."

I pick up my speed, so infuriated with Lilith that I'm ready to kill Leyna now just to see the look on her face. I storm down the hallway, my mind set on tearing Leyna limb from limb and then playing soccer with her head. A thin strand of sticky silk wraps around my wrist, jerking me to a halt. I stare at it, confused, as Kerion crawls up alongside me.

"I appreciate your passion for this, Michelle, but storming into that room will not help us here. Lucifer may think that you, as Leyna, are simply trying to take on his queen. He must understand what's happening first. Going in without explaining your situation is suicide."

I groan in annoyance, but I see his point. Without knowing that Leyna and I have switched, he'll mistake me for being Leyna and try to kill me off.

"So how do we convince him of that?" I scowl at Kerion.

The old spider thinks for a moment. ""We'll have to get him alone and explain the situation without Leyna being present."

I scoff angrily. "How? Leyna knows we're after her, so I don't think she'll just let him go off on his own. She'll do anything to stay by him to dispute everything we say."

Kerion shakes his head, a soft glint in his eyes. "Not if Leyna makes a mistake. She knows nothing of how you and Lucifer are together, so she'll have to improvise. And even then, she won't be able to keep up the charade for long. Lucifer will eventually notice something's out of hand and leave."

"But she'll try to stop him!" I counter.

I'm honestly starting to panic. I have the will and the anger necessary to take Leyna down and get my body back, but parading around as me means she's got unlimited power and resources to take me out. She could win this if I don't move fast enough, and there's always the threat of Lilith showing her disgusting head and fucking it up for me even more.

"Once Lucifer is frustrated, it's best to stay out of his way. Even Leyna knows that. Even you know that. If she were to try to stop him, that would just be another red flag."

"OH!" I throw my hands up into the air and slam them against my head. "This is ridiculous! I know she hates me, but she doesn't have to take everything! It's like fighting a fucking child!"

"Leyna!"

My husband's voice rolls through the hallway, so full of anger and fury that I'm nearly knocked over by the mere sound of it. Kerion is stunned too, almost collapsing to the ground. I manage to remain steady and collect my equilibrium, but my heart is racing. My husband is coming for me, unaware of the change I've gone through or the torrent of emotions I'm feeling.

Oh no.

For the few seconds I have before I must turn to face him, I ponder what to do. I can't just tell him what's going on -- he'll never believe me. But I feel so awkward and foolish pretending to be Leyna in front of him. I hate to lie to him, but I'm too afraid of his legendary anger to try to tempt fate by telling him the truth.

"Look at me." His voice swirls in my ear, soft but focused and angry. He's right behind me, his hot breath cascading down my back.

I freeze, my lungs seizing up and my heart nearly stopping. Kerion is staring wide-eyed at me, as fearful and nervous as I am. Slowly, I gather my strength, reminding myself the he is my husband, and turn to face him.

Full lips are twisted into a cruel scowl. An impossibly beautiful face has hardened into a mask of absolute contempt. His brilliant gold eyes pierce through me, and my knees nearly buckle under me. They're so filled with power and hatred that I'm almost moved to tears. He's so angry, so suspicious of Leyna that he nearly hates her. But right now, with his eyes glaring at me, it feels as if I'm the object of his fury.

I swallow and collect whatever strength I have left, lifting my head and staring straight back at him. He towers over me in Leyna's slightly smaller frame, and I have to crane my neck to just to see him.

His heated gaze never wavers. "What have you done?"

Me? Ask the bitch what she did!

I try to force out an answer, but my throat locks and I'm rendered speechless in front of my own husband. I've never seen him this pissed, and now I'm afraid he'll honestly hurt me if he doesn't catch on.

His eyes flick to Kerion, narrowing in annoyance. "Leave."

Kerion takes a tentative step forward, barely testing the boundaries. "Sire, we must-"

Lucifer's eyes spear straight through the old spider. "Now."

Kerion retracts his foot, pulling back slowly down the hall and creeping into an alcove to leave us alone. I know him enough to know he's simply following orders, but with him leaving, I feel more alone that I've ever felt in my life. Kerion finally disappears from the hallway, retreating into the shadows that branch off into smaller halls. Standing here in front of my furious husband, I'm completely alone.

His eyes come back to me, still full of contempt. "Answer me."

I can't. He's asking the right question to the wrong person, and I have no good answer for him. I stand there, stupidly staring at him, silently pleading that he'll recognize something in me that will let him know I'm not Leyna.

His gaze softens a bit, but it remains just a deadly. He turns and steps away, walking towards the thick wall of the hallway and placing his hands on the edge of one of the banisters. He peers into the pits of souls below, the soft orange glow giving him a slightly more vicious look.

"I was wondering if you could assist me in something." He's talking to the souls below, but speaking to me.

I swallow again, and this time I force words from my mouth. "With what, sire?"

He turns to look at me, cocking his head to the side and staring at me coldly. "There's something amiss with my queen."

I nearly faint from relief. Kerion must have been right! Leyna's clueless to my relationship with my husband. She has no idea what Lucifer and I are like around each other, so she must have done something to tip him off.

I force down my elation and try to remain as calm as possible. "What would... make you say such a thing?"

He spins around and leans against the wall, still staring at me with hollow eyes. "She's...off."

"How so?" I ask politely. "Off in a mental way? In a human way?"

"Mentally, I suppose," he muses. "She's not acting right."

Why is he telling me this?

Oh, of course. It's a test, a trap. He knows the real Leyna had something to do with my body's behavior, and he's banking on the idea that she'd crack under pressure if questioned. He's theory may be correct, but he's talking to the wrong Leyna.

Oh, I know you're trying. I just wish I could say it.

Knowing that I need to play along or possibly sign my death certificate, I answer the only way I can. "She's human, sire. She'll never be right."

His eyes narrow at me, but he never lashes out. "Don't play with me, Leyna. I'm concerned."

I sigh dramatically. "I'm sure you are. Alright, fine. What's gotten you so upset?"

His features soften a bit, but the killer gleam in his eyes remains. He's willing to talk, but he'll be watching for any mistake or hint I make.

"She's whinier than usual. She practically shit on Belphagor's name because he needed my help. She was also rummaging through her wardrobe, something I've never seen her do before. Like she was a child in her mother's closet."

My anger spikes. That bitch is playing princess with my clothes. I'm going to slaughter her.

I shrug. "She's needy. I'm sure someone warned you that she would be. Human are notorious for that."

He rolls his eyes. "She's more demanding, too. She was begging me to calm down. She never does that."

Shit. What would Leyna say?

"Still needy. Maybe you're not up par with her stupid little insecurities." I hate degrading myself, but if I don't play the game, I'll be kicked off the island into a river of boiling blood.

His gaze shifts to the wall, and for several moments he says nothing. He glares at the stones, the intense anger from his gaze actually making the bricks start to smoke. My gut turns. Whatever this little fuck-up is, Leyna sure made it a good one.

"She removed her piercings."

I'm numb. My emotions have gone from angry to furious to a hatred so intense I momentarily stop feeling. My hands tremble slightly, and I stare at him blankly, my abhorrence for this woman making it impossible for me to move. She removed my piercings? My piercings? She pulled out the few symbolic pieces of metal that lined Lucifer and I together?

That's it. She's fucking dead.

I take a slow breath, collecting myself into a barely-controlled ball of anger, despair and confusion. I can't play this game anymore. My masquerade as Leyna has come to an end, and I'm planning to go out with a bang.

"She took out," I nearly spit the words, "my piercings?"

Lucifer's eyes snap to me, a mix of confusion and annoyance swirling within their amber depths. "Your piercings?"

"That bitch." I whisper the words, but they're loud enough that Lucifer catches wind of them.

"Leyna," my husband starts, "What do you mean your piercings?"

I turn slowly, mirroring the time he takes and the gleam in his eyes that makes looking at someone seem so deadly. I'm so filled with anger and outrage and horror, I can barely look at him. I'm glaring at the wall behind him, wishing that the stone wall would burst into pieces and that one of the shards would somehow find its way into Leyna's head.

"Those piercings are mine," I spit the words at the ground.

He stares at me, dumbfounded and a little pissed. I understand why. I look like the woman he thinks has cursed his queen, and I'm being audacious enough to claim that the metal in the queen's body belongs to me. How dare I? But then again, it is the truth and I have no problem standing my ground on this one.

He glares at me. "Those piercings belong to the queen. You dare to make a claim of them?"

I nod. "I'll make the same claim on the one I shoved into your nipple."

He jerks back and inch, now probably more shocked that angry. I smile to myself, glad to know that the memories we've shared have allowed me some ammunition to plead my case. I'm suddenly glad I paid attention to what he told me in the bath. If firing that at him doesn't save me, nothing will.

"The one you gave me!" His eyes narrow at me, filled with anger and alarm. "How dare you make such a claim, you spoiled, rotten little shit! I'll see you dead for telling such wishful, damning lies! Now tell me what you did to my queen!"  

Despite his anger, I hold my ground. His fury has returned, but I can tell there are a few grains of hope and worry in his eyes. He's hoping what he's seeing now is the truth and that his queen is really right in front of him, but he's worried it could also be a trick and that his heart is betraying him.

Oh, no. My Lucifer, this isn't a trick. I promise.

I drop my head, gathering whatever strength I have left. When I look at him again, I've mentally shrugged on my royal vestments and grabbed my crown. If he wants to believe that Leyna is really me, then I'll prove him wrong here and now. I'll tell him something only I could know -- something Leyna has no idea of.

"When you spoke to me in the bath, you poured your heart out. You told me slivers of your past and the reasons why you became what you are. You're angry, jealous and hurt. Betrayed by your own family and left for dead, then blamed for anything bad that happens. You tore your heart open and let me see the pain and misery inside of you, something you've never done to anyone."

His eyes widen, filled with confusion, anguish...and a tiny bit more hope. I smile at him. This is exactly what I wanted. To have him see that I'm really his queen, that I know things only his real queen could know. That the woman he spilled his heart to is right in front of him.

I continue. "You promised me in that bath that you would do your best to be a good husband. I believed you, and I ask you to uphold your word to me. I ask you to trust me, to listen to me, to stop thinking like an angel and start thinking like a man. You said you loved me, and I said I would do my best to give you the same love and respect that you've needed for so long. I told Michael that I would never turn against you unless you turned against me. I'm proving that now. I need you to love me now, and trust that what I'm telling you is no lie or trick. Please."

I take a breath, my body shaking and my heart pounding. I've let loose everything I know about him, said every truth I've learned. I can only hope he sees through this disguise and recognizes me.

He stands completely still, staring at me. His eyes are wide, his breathing is shallow, and he looks ready to either scream or cry. Slowly, his eyes shift to that strange hollowed look and his body relaxes. His eyes flick to me, and a tiny, sad smile spreads across his face. He spreads his arms a bit, his wings unfurling and his unfairly magnificent body straightening.

"My queen," he whispers.

I squeal and bolt towards him, throwing myself into his arms with enough force to knock him to the ground. He falls willingly, and the two of us crash to the floor. I wrap my arms around his waist and bury my face into the muscled strength of his chest, excited and relieved that I finally proved myself tonight. I feel his arms wrap around my waist, his cheek nuzzling my hair, the soft feathers of his wings tickling my skin,




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



There's a torrent of emotions flooding my head, and all of them come bursting out at once. All my anger and frustration and happiness coalesce into a burning need to cry my heart out, and I let it loose. I tighten my grip and I press my cheek against his chest, letting my tears flow onto his flawless skin. I let it go, and it feels so good to vent my emotions, even if it is through tears.

"Ah," he whispers, "That's it, then."

Taking a shaky breath, I look up at him with wide, questioning, tear-stained eyes. "What's it?"

He smiles down at me, reaching out to stroke Leyna's red hair from my face. "You've proved your point."

I swallow, trying to clear my thoughts as tears continue to stream down my cheeks. "I have?"

He nods, his smile growing an inch. "Demons never cry."

A smile breaks onto my lips. Once again, my humanness has saved my ass. My delicate emotions and unstable hormone levels have helped me solidify my status as Lucifer's rightful queen. Thank fucking God.

I may be human, but my inability to hold back my emotions has screwed you, Leyna.

His smile fades, slowly turning into a grimace of confusion. "What happened? How did she take my queen from me?"

I wipe away most of my tears, beyond relieved to know my husband is back on my team again. "I'm not sure. All I remember was arguing with her in the hall and her kissing me. I blacked out after we switched. Kerion saw the whole thing."

"Crafty old spider." His smile returns for an instant, then shifts into an angry scowl. "We'll fix this. I'll have no imposter in my bed when my queen is safe and sound."

I nod, but the urge to stay close to him is overwhelming. I drop my head back against his chest, listening to the thunder of his heartbeat. "Can we stay here for a bit? I've missed you, and it's nice to have you on my side again."

He laughs as his wings fold around me. "Of course. Take as long as you like. We'll get you back when you're ready."

I smile and nuzzle the smooth flesh of his chest. "Good." I pause for an instant. "How far did you get with her?" I ask out of pure curiosity, as well as a slight feeling of dread. I hate to think she convinced him enough to actually sleep with her...

"The truth? She barely got through telling me how much she wanted to blow me." His voice is low, tinged with disgust. "By that time, she'd been doing so much crap that didn't add up, I practically walked out of that room while she was still on her knees."

I smile. "Good."

Ha! The bitch can't even convince him when she's wearing my skin!

"You said Kerion saw what happened. Does anyone else know of this?"

I nod. "We ran into Belphagor and Lilith. Belphagor figured out I wasn't Leyna within about two seconds. He and the other fallen angels are working to make sure Leyna doesn't try to have me executed. He was with us all the way. Give him a raise, will you?"

Cold fingers run up and down my back, soothing my skin but also making me shiver.

"Why didn't you have him tell me what happened?"

"If you found out before we could put up roadblocks, we'd lose our chance to surprise Leyna."

He pauses for a moment. "How would you lose that?"

I lift my head from his chest and stare at him. "I know you. If you found out Leyna had switched bodies with me before we could catch her, you'd lose your mind. You might have even killed her and taken my body out as well. Then what would we do?"  

"And Lilith?"

I hesitate, fearful of speaking the truth and risking unnecessary amounts of innocent lives. But my soul is itching for payback, so I let him have it.

"Kerion and I went to her asking for her help. She basically gave us the middle finger and said that once you'd figure out what happened, you'd toss my body off a cliff and she could take you for herself."

He's still for a moment, and I feel his chest rise and fall slowly beneath my fingers. "I see. I'll have a talk with her when we've got you straightened out." His voice is cold, emotionless. Lilith's fucked.

Good. Bitch deserves it.

I stay silent, watching the anger rise and fall in his eyes. Finally, he takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, seemingly clearing his head of thought about killing Lilith so he can focus on me again.

He smiles and kisses my forehead. "You know me too well for your own good."

I smile back. "I don't think so. Knowing you saved my ass."

He laughs softly. "Perhaps I've told you too much."

I shake my head, closing my eyes and inhaling the dark, rich scent that clings to his skin. "I want to know you. The more I know, the safer I feel."

His hands rubbing my back still, and his eyes go soft. "You feel unsafe with me?"

"No!" I nearly shout. "Not like that, dummy! I'm not afraid of you. Listening to your story makes me feel closer to you, that's all. The more distant you are, the less I'm comfortable around you."

His smile returns again. "Good. For a moment there, I thought you might claim irreconcilable differences and bail."

I'm taken aback slightly, and a little hurt. Why would he think that? Because I told him his emotional distancing scares me? That's not a reason that would make me leave. Attempted murder or infidelity, yeah, but not emotional disconnect.

My eyes float away from him, my mind still reeling from his assumption. "I said I loved you and promised I wouldn't leave. It hurts that you would think I might."

I hear him swear softly, and he shifts under me, pushing me back so he can sit up. He backs up against a wall so he can look me in the eye. I'm left straddling his thighs and wondering if this might be a death knell of my trust in him. If he's willing to believe I'm so afraid of him that I would pack up and leave, then maybe I should.

His cold hands cup my face, forcing me to look at him again. His flawless amber eyes spear into mine, almost knocking me back.

"I never meant that you would, just that you might. You know me. I've been left for dead by my own family. More people have left me behind than have taken me in. It's all I know, all I'm used to. I know you care about me -- maybe you even love me -- but it's a fear I'll never get over."

God damn, this man is broken beyond belief. I leave him for five seconds and he's already going nuts about me abandoning him. I understand his paranoia, but seriously. I promised him I'd stay - hell, I even turned down Michael to stay with him -- so he's got no reason to worry.

I reach down and cup his perfect face in my hands, forcing him to look at me. "Listen to me. When Michael came down here to claw me back to your dad, I told him I would never leave you. I said that until you tried to do harm to me, I'd stay by your side. You've never hurt me, or lied to me, or stabbed me in the back. You've stayed honest and faithful to me, trusting me when no one else wanted to and defending me when no one else would. Until you try to hurt me or bring me pain, I'm yours. Got it?"

He's still for a moment, then a slow, sweet smile spreads across his lips. His eyes light up, and he almost seems to glow. He leans forward, catching me off guard in the best way. I meet him halfway, our mouths melding as I loop my arms around his neck. His hands reach up and tangle in my hair, holding me tight as our kiss deepens.

I sigh to myself in relief. He finally gets it. I'm not going to abandon him, not matter how much other people may think he deserves it. He's my husband, and until he tries to hurt me, I'm not going anywhere. Besides, I've got power, privilege and a man who can blow my mind in bed. Why would I leave?

He breaks away for a moment, nuzzling his cheek against my neck. "If you were in your real body, I'd have you splayed out on the floor."

I giggle and kiss his soft hair. "Then let's go get it back."

He barks out a laugh, then scoops me into his arms and stands up. I laugh with him and grip his shoulders, lifting myself up so I can kiss him again. He lowers his head willingly, and our lips meet once more. He starts taking easy, confident steps down the hall, kissing me as he carries me towards our bedroom.

My fingers start to creep up his shoulders and tangle in his hair, pulling gently as we make our way down the hall. He groans in to my mouth and screeches to a halt, then drops his hands so my feet fall to the ground. I land easily, but I'm confused by what he's doing and what he wants. Before I can pull away and ask, Lucifer has spun me around and pressed my back against to cool stone of the wall. He steps forward, his mouth still locked to mine, and uses his weight to hold me in place.

Ah. I see what you want.

I smile against his lips and tighten my grip on his hair. He groans again, his hands snaking down my -- Leyna's -- body to find the hem of her dress. It's a floor-length gown, so he's out of luck there. Thankfully, it's designed with a thigh-high slit on the side, and I feel him smile as his cool fingers glide up my leg.

My body or not, I don't care.

His fingers reach my hip and start drawing delicious circles on my skin. I moan into his mouth and lift my leg so I can hook it over his hip. His other hand catches my thigh and helps me up, then slides around to my back once I'm locked against him.

His fingers slowly start working the hem of my dress up to my hips. At this point, I'm really caught by surprise. I didn't realize that Leyna was naked when she and I switched bodies. I've been practically nude this entire time, which makes for a very interesting choice of events that could play out. Lucifer could decide he doesn't care and ravage me anyway, or he could decide he wants nothing to do with Leyna's body and wait until I'm myself again. Or anything in-between.

Either way, I don't really care. I'm just glad to have my husband back on my side and fighting for me again. Our kiss continues, a mix of happiness, lust and relief all rolled into one fantastic make-out session.

"Sire!"

Belphagor's booming voice echoes down the hallway, snapping me out of my lust haze. Lucifer, however, remains locked against me, seemingly unaware of our new company.

I flick my eyes down the hall, watching as a band of fallen angels charges towards us. Belphagor is leading them, a look of panic on his face. The others have similar expression, but their eyes hold a more serious tone.

"Sire!" Belphagor calls out again, louder and more urgent.

Lucifer sighs against me and reluctantly pulls away, a flicker of irritation in his eyes. He turns his head to face the stampede of angels coming at us, straightening his shoulders and flaring his wings out like a barrier.

The mass of fallen angels slows down and stop a few feet in front of us, still looking panicked. Belphagor's emerald eyes find me, relaxing a bit when her notices my legs hooked provocatively over my husband's hip.

The hulking angel sighs in relief. "Michelle, thank goodness."

Lucifer nods. "Yes, I know. What's the issue?"

Belphagor's attention snaps to his ruler. "It's Leyna. She's trying to pass an execution order."

WHAT?!

Lucifer's lips turn up in a mocking smile. "It won't get far. Even if the Counsil does let it pass, I'll kill it before the ink is dried." He turns to me, rubbing his thumb along my bottom lip. "I'll kill her before she can even get close to you."

I smile up at him, considering then dismissing the idea of seductively sucking on his thumb to show my appreciation. Not now, but later. The last thing Belphagor wants to see is my husband getting turned on when urgent shit is flying around.

Belphagor clears his throat, looking more nervous that scared. "The order isn't from Michelle, sir."

Now he's caught both of our attentions. Lucifer and I whip our heads to look at him, wearing matching expression of confusion and worry.

The old angel sighs. "Leyna may want Michelle dead, but unfortunately she's smart enough to know that going for her first would be suicide."

Swallowing, I acknowledge the elephant in the room. "So who'd she go after?"

"Kerion." Belphagor's eyes flick to the ground nervously. "For treason."

I'm stunned, frightened and beyond hurt. Kerion has done nothing but help and support me. He saw what happened, rescued me, and tried his best to convince Lilith to fight with us. How dare she go after him! Anger flood my body and I look up at my husband to see if he's as pissed as I am.

What I see is more frightening than the boogeyman himself. My husband stares out into the hallway, his eyes and cold and unfeeling. His wings shudder slightly, a tiny indication of the hurricane that must be brewing inside him. His mouth twists into a tight grimace, and his breathing and labored and shaky. To top it all off, I see his eye twitch.

"Belphagor." His voice is low, deadly, filled with fury I can't even begin to imagine.

The dark angel swallows loudly but holds his ground. "Sire?"

Lucifer continues to stare out into the hallway. "Tsaric nor namiriac."

Belphagor is silent for an instant, his eyes nearly popping out of his head. The rest of the group has fallen silent, too, staring at Lucifer with fearful eyes. My gut twists and I'm tempted for an instant to pull away from him and step back so he can have room to explode.

Uh oh. That must be a really bad code.

Clearing his throat again, Belphagor manages to regain his equilibrium. "Shoot to kill, sir?"

Lucifer can only nod.

Belphagor nods in response. "I'll see it done."

"Not yet." One of Lucifer's hands flies up, halting any idea of them leaving. "I'll say when it's clear. Until I give the order, neither Michelle nor Leyna's bodies are to be harmed."

"Yes, sir." Belphagor nods in response, seemingly relieved but still concerned.

I stare at my husband, confused, nervous and worried that his mind may have snapped. Yes, I'm pissed about Leyna sending and execution order for Kerion, too. But I'd like to think I'm the slightly more emotionally stable one in our marriage. His silence and coldness has me anxious that I may have lost him for a moment.

Until he gives to order? What or-

The pieces start to fall together in my head. The kill order is for Leyna, meant for after I get my body back. Lucifer's planning to set her free into Hell and have her gunned down -- or whatever weapon they plan to use on her -- once I'm back to normal. But he wants them to wait until he gives to order in case things don't go as smoothly and she ends up running off with my body or they accidentally shoot me instead. Once I'm back to being me, he'll give the order and Leyna will be gone for good.

Well, as pissed as I am about mom forcing me into this marriage, I must say I've ended up with one hell of a loyal, protective husband.

Lucifer sighs and closes his eyes, hanging his head as he turns to face me again. His eyes flutter open, staring at me but not really focusing on anything. "Go."

Belphagor and the other angels nod and bow respectfully before turning to leave. I watch as Belphagor and Samael take one last glance back and grin at me, relieved to know that their master knows what happened and that their world is on it's way to being set right again. I smile back, relieved to know I've got more than just a handful of allies on my side; I've got a whole damn army of powerful fallen angels ready to attack in my defense at a moment's notice. Freaking awesome.

Once my husband and I are alone again, I can refocus on him. Lucifer's still furious, but his face is as calm and serene as ever. Again, I stare up at him in awe. He has such control over himself, so much power held back behind those eyes. I wonder how he blows off steam when the stress gets to be too much.

Oh, yes. That's what I'm for.

I reach up and cup his cheek, running my thumb over the razor-sharpness of his cheekbone. "Hey."

A small smile cracks on his lips. "Forgive me."

"Nope. I'm the same way right now." I smile back and shake my head.

He relaxes a bit, exhaling slowly. "Kerion. I never thought she'd sink that low."

Honestly, I'm not surprised.

"It's okay," I whisper. "We knew she was nuts."

He gives a soft laugh. "Crazy, yes. But treasonous? Even for Leyna that's a bit extreme."

"Well..." I trail off, deliberating if I should answer honestly or let it go.

Before I can decide, Lucifer lets out a low groan and leans forward, pressing his lips to mine once again. I smile against him and kiss back, letting my train of thought go and allowing my husband to hold my attention. His hands resume their previous teasing, holding me steady and spinning circles around the flesh of my hips.

He pulls away, breathing heavily. He leans forward, pressing his cheek against my neck as his warm breath spills down my back. "Damn it."

I reach around and run my fingertips along the length of his back. "What? What is it?"

"I've had a hard-on all fucking day," he groans into my shoulder. His hands reach under the fabric of my dress and slide up and down my thighs, warming my cold skin and making me tremble.

I lean my head back against the wall, closing my eyes and relishing in the feel of my husband's cool hands on my skin. I bite my lip as one of his fingers brushes against the edge of my sex. I tremble again, and I hear his laugh just as his finger strokes my clit. This time, I inhale sharply and dig my fingers into his back, my body now on fire and begging for more attention.

No, no. Not like this.

I groan in frustration, but I know my conscience is right. As much as I want my husband to throw me on the floor and tear me to pieces, I do not what to do it while I'm still stuck in Leyna's body. Once I'm back in my own skin, I plan for us to smash every piece of furniture in that bedroom.

"No, no," I whisper in his ear. "Not now."

He stills, confused that I would turn down his offer for sex.

"Michelle," he groans.

I stroke the length of his spine with my thumbs. "Not while I'm like this. After all the shit she's put us through, I don't want Leyna to walk out of my room knowing that her body got a piece of you even when she wasn't there to enjoy it."

Thankfully, he gets the message and pulls his hands back an inch. He's got the same idea: no sex, even while I'm the one in this body, until we get things back to normal. Relieving ourselves now will still give Leyna a tiny bit of satisfaction knowing some part of her managed to capture him. If we can hold out for a little bit longer, we can send her to her execution as a complete failure.

Still, I hate seeing my husband in the grip of such a painful need for release. I feel awful for making him hold his libido back, even if it is for a good reason. I sigh and decide that even though I won't allow him to take what he wants, I'll give him what he needs.

"Come here," I whisper, pulling him against me.

He comes willingly, pulling his hands away from my pussy and looping them around my back. His face remains buried against my shoulder, but I don't care. He's dealt with enough shit today. It's time he gets a little relief.

I pull one of my hands away from his back and reach down to trace the edge of his tattered jeans. His body trembles slightly, and he bucks his hips against my fingers. I smile and dip my fingers past the sturdy denim, tracing my way around to his chiseled abdomen. The light hairs on his treasure trail tickle my fingertips, and I continue to teasingly trace the deep lines of muscle carved into his flesh.

"No, sex," I whisper. "But I'll get you off."

He groans against my shoulder and hugs me tighter. "My godsend."

I laugh. "Not quite a godsend, but you're welcome."

I manage to unbutton and unzip his pants with one hand, using the other to stroke his back and keep him close. The instant his jeans come undone, his cock flies out, hard and ready for some serious attention. I laugh softly and rub his back in apology. My poor husband. He must have had one nasty case of blue balls.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



Here, let me help.

I don't waste any time getting him the relief he so desperately needs. I reach down and grip his enormous girth in my hand, holding completely still when he twitches and groans softly. I wait for a second so he can steady himself, then I slowly, gently start to stroke him. I move my hand all the way up and down his cock, taking my time to make sure no part of him goes unloved. He groans again, his wings flaring out a bit before falling limply to the ground.

I continue to keep my leisurely pace, giving him the pleasure he needs but making sure he has time to enjoy it. With his chest pressed against mine as I squeeze him off, I'm unable to see exactly what I'm doing. I'm flying blind here, so I have to rely on my sense of touch and his reactions to know if I'm doing a good job.

Apparently when it comes to hand jobs, I'm a fucking rock star. Every time I pull back on his cock, his hips jerk and a low groan escapes his throat. His body twitches under my fingers, and a tiny bit of pride swells in my chest. First I've got the best rack he's ever seen, then he tells me I'm awesome at blowjobs, and now I rock at jerking him off, too. My husband is a lucky, lucky man-angel-thing.

"Doing alright?" I whisper in his ear.

He groans and straightens his spine, pulling back just enough that his mouth can touch mine again. Our kiss is gentle, a long, slow melding of tongues and lips that send a flurry of sparks racing up my spine. I tighten my grip on him and he moans, a sound that's half animal, half surrender.

"More," he begs, his mouth barely brushing against mine.

I smile against his lips and quicken my pace a little, secretly enjoying his gasp of surprised pleasure. As I continue to kiss and stroke my husband, I realize just how far we've come from our wedding day. It's been barely a week that we've been legally married, and I've gone from being terrified of his touch to relishing it. I love being close to him, whether it's curling up with him in bed, or laughing with him over screwing with people, or jerking him off in the middle of the hallway. I finally, really love this creature like I promised I would.

I break away from his mouth and pull his body back against me so I can whisper in his ear. "I love you."

"I love you, too." His whispered breath grazes the skin of my neck, making me shiver.

I never stop stroking him, but I'm surprised at how quickly he responds. Before tonight, saying he loved me was a challenge for him. He would pause, almost thinking if he did love me, then say it with a strained voice. But now, his response was automatic, as if he spoke his feelings without thinking. I smile and kiss his shoulder, elated to know I've finally won him over and claimed the Devil himself as my husband.

A few seconds later, he stiffens and buries his face against my neck. His groan is muffled slightly, but just as powerful. I can feel his cock twitching in my hand, and small drips of his cum spill onto my arm. I don't care, he's my husband. Why would I be freaked out? I've already given him two mind-numbing blowjobs, so this is nothing. If anything, it has solidified my status as an awesome queen. I switch into good-girl mode and slowly, gently stroke him through his climax, savoring the fact that I can drive my husband wild with just my hands.

Mission accomplished.

He throws out one arm and braces himself against the wall, pulling away from me a bit to catch his breath. I look up at him as he comes down from his high, once again enamored with his painful beauty. His eyes are barely open, thin rings of electric gold surrounding enormous pools of jet black. His perfect lips are parted, torrents of warm breath spilling out of them and down my chest. There's a thin sheen of sweat glistening on his skin, highlighting every dip and bulge of his muscled body.

I'm married to this. God damn...

Finally, Lucifer manages to regain his balance. His eyes flutter closed as he laughs quietly, leaning into to claim my mouth. I stand up on my toes and accept his kiss willingly, letting go of his cock so he can dress himself properly. He doesn't, instead stepping closer and pressing his hips against mine, holding me against the wall so I can't escape... as if I'd want to?

He pulls away breaking the kiss and leaning in to nuzzle my cheek with his. "Thank you. I needed that."

I giggle and close my eyes, savoring the chill of his skin on my own. "You're welcome. I hate to see my poor, sweet husband suffering from blue balls like that."

He laughs in my ear. "Such a tease. I may have to find a way to make you a bit more agreeable. Maybe we'll find something that will make sure you never leave me." His tone is light, teasing and playful.

I pause, considering my options. I know Lucifer would never hurt me, so I'm safe from being whipped or beaten in any sense of the thought. But there are others ways he could torture me, like cutting me off from sex with him or denying me caramel. But neither of those things would make me subservient, just annoyed. And does he even want me to be docile? He's always said he likes my independent spirit, so probably not. Teasing me is just another way for him to have fun and get a nice thrill at the same time.

Still, the gears in my head start to spin. I love this creature, despite his reputation, and I feel the need to prove to him that I'm all his. After this little soap opera drama we've just been through, he'll need something to prove to him that I'm not going to leave him for anything. Something dramatic, something that's sure to make him understand that I'll do anything for him...

"I...may know a way you can start..." My voice is soft, a little shaky from the idea that passes through my mind.

He pulls back an inch, concerned by my sudden shyness. "Michelle?"

I take a deep breath, forcing down my fears and insecurities. "Remember the first night we were married? The night I told you about my dream of being pierced?"

He nods, suddenly silent and focused on hearing me out. I'm slightly relieved that he's willing to listen to this. Having him shoot me down now would destroy my fragile sense of security and personal worth.

I swallow loudly. "I didn't tell you all of it."

His eyes widen, his expression both curious and alarmed. "Yes?"

"There was another piercing..." I can't finish the sentence, I may be married to Satan himself, but the very though of what I'm about to suggest has made my throat lock up.

There's a silence between us as Lucifer's face shifts from confused to thoughtful to surprised. His gaze locks on me, stunned that I would dream of such a thing and excited that I'm brave enough to try. I can only stand there and breathe shakily as the puzzle pieces click into place inside his head.

"Your clit?" His eyes never leave mine. "Really?"

I nod and chew my lip nervously, unsure of what to say or think or feel.

A slow, wicked smile spreads across his face. He's probably been imagining this for months, maybe even years, but he's never had a chance to try it out. Until I come along and gather up every ounce of my strength to suggest it. I suspect that his smile is just the tip of an iceberg of excitement. Were he less calm and controlled, he'd probably be bouncing off the walls.

"Oh, Michelle." He leans forward and kisses me again, wrapping his arms around my waist and crushing me against him.

I'm relieved that he's taking this in such good stride. Not that I'm surprised -- what man would turn down an opportunity to play with his wife? -- but I was honestly worried that he might reject the idea and make me feel foolish. With his burst of enthusiasm, I can relax.

He pulls away and grins at me. "Do I get to have the honors?"

I manage a small laugh. "Nobody touches this body but you."

"Good." He leans in and peppers kisses along my neck and shoulder. "Are you willing to let me devour you as well?"

His question catches me off guard. I'm by no means ashamed of giving oral sex, but I've never been the recipient. All three of my previous boyfriends either shrugged the idea off or made a face when I asked. Having someone devour me has always been a huge wish of mine -- when I was 15, I actually wrote it down on my Christmas list - but the chance never showed itself. His proposal sparks a deep-seated curiosity in me that's been begging to be satisfied.

I nod and smile shyly. "You'll have to break me in."

He gives me a shocked, confused face. "Never?"

I shake my head. "No guy I've ever dated was interested."

He scowls at air. "Bastards."

I stare at him, surprised. "Have you done it?"

"Once or twice." His lips twist into a mischievous smile. "I'm not a master, but I know how it woks."

My smile returns. "You're more experienced than I am."

In one smooth motion, Lucifer sips one hand behind my back, then scoops me up into his arms. I lace my finger behind his neck and let him carry me down the hall back to our room both relieved about his acceptance and nervous about what possibilities now lay beyond that door. Once we're through with Leyna, there are a thousand different possibilities of tricks and games he could throw at me. And I've just given him permission to come at me with full force.

Clit piercings, oral sex and executions. Oh my.

He lips brush my hair as we make our way down the hall. "Don't worry, my queen. When we've got you back to normal, we can play all we want. I'll show you everything I know and try everything I can think of."

He picks up the pace, flying down the empty hallway so fast the walls become a blur. I cling to him, nervous about what's going to happen once we pass through those doors. Leyna probably knows her game is finished, so she'll be ready for a fight. But so am I, and my determination to keep what's mine far outweighs her determination to steal it.

We round the corner and the doors to our room come into view. Lucifer slows to a leisurely pace, his steps stead and strong. My heart is racing, but my anger and pain at what this woman has done to me -- to us -- has set my soul on fire. I don't care how angry she is or how much she wants my life. I'm reclaiming my husband, taking back what's mine and tossing her out with the rest of the garbage.

Ready or not, here I come.

Just before we reach the doors, Lucifer stops and gently releases me from his arms. I stand, still dressed in Leyna's skin and way more nervous than I should be. I don't want to fuck up this fight, even with Lucifer fighting with me, and lose everything all over again. If I do lose, I don't know if I could ever look at my husband again. But I somehow manage to push down my unnecessarily strong worries and force myself to focus on the task at hand: kicking Leyna's ass and getting my body -- and my life -- back.

Strong arms wrap around my waist, and soft lips press against my neck. "Ready?"

I swallow. "Yes and no. I want to kill her, but I'm scared I might lose."

His arms tighten around me, holding me close. "I'll be right behind you."

"Are you going to help me?" My voice is shaky, worried that he might back down and send me to fight on my own.

He kisses my neck again. "Always. And whether you win or lose, I've got your side."

I relax a little in his arms. Liar that he is, I can hear in his voice -- I can almost feel it when he touches me -- that's he's being honest. Not only will he not abandon his queen that he took so much time and effort to win over, I doubt that if I do lose, he'll be very enthusiastic about being stuck with Leyna. He has to stand by me, or he's screwed.

One last breath and I'm ready. My hand almost itches to punch Leyna in her face -- my face really, but now I'm splitting hairs. All I know is that just beyond that door is the woman who nearly ruined my life and stole my husband. And she's going to pay for it.

Before Lucifer can give me a pep talk, I step out of his embrace and march towards the door. He follows right behind me, his wings flaring out as he prepares to either take my side in the fight or drag me out of harm's way.

I stop just in front of the door, my chest heaving and my heart pounding. Looking down, I can see a shadow moving around in the room, and I can hear my voice whispering softly. She's right there, barely a foot away from me on the other side of the door. She knew I was coming, but she's got no idea how close I am. Closing my eyes, I take a deep breath, clench my fist and grab the handle of the door.

A heartbeat later, it's wide open and for an instant, I'm staring at myself. My eyes are wide with shock, surprised to see my adversary so close, so soon. I take a few precious milliseconds to let Leyna adjust to the truth that, yes, I'm probably going to kill her, before I fire the first shot.

I come out swinging, throwing my fist into my face with as much force as I can muster. I connect perfectly, and my body stumbles back with a sharp cry. Leyna cradles my face in her hands, groaning in pain as I storm through the doors with my husband in tow. I've got a good head start, taking her by surprise and dealing out a good, solid punch. If I can just keep her confused and off guard, this should be easy.

Thankfully, Leyna's still too stunned to block my next two punches. I knock her back again and finally send her to the floor. A flashback of my father teaching me how to fight properly pops into my head, and I smile knowing that my dad did the best he could to take care of me.

Unfortunately, he also made sure I didn't punch like a girl, and the thought of seriously damaging my body crosses my mind. I could do some serious damage, even though I'm fighting for my life and my family. I need to be careful and direct my punches to less sensitive areas of her body. The last thing I want is to come out of this fight with my crown, my body and a concussion.

At this point, my adrenaline is roaring through me, and I suddenly don't care whether Lucifer will come to my rescue or not. I'm more concerned about getting my life back. If he can help me, that's fine. If not, I can handle myself.

I watch as Leyna regains her balance and hauls herself to her feet. The bruises that have started to flower on my face fade away quickly. I panic for a moment -- she may have my body, but her demonic soul is healing her faster that I would have guessed.

Maybe I won't end up with a smashed-up face after all...

I shake off my nerves and try to plan my attack. Leyna is glaring at me now -- it's strange to see my own body looking so angry when I'm not in control -- and she looks ready to tear my heart out. I'm not shaken by her obvious hatred. I'm too pissed to be scared of this whiney little home wrecker. Besides, her dad never taught her how to fight.

Screaming out her rage, Leyna charges at me, swinging wildly and trying to scare me off. I'm caught by surprise by her ferocity, but I manage to duck and doge out of the way and land another good smack to her face. She stumbles back again but keeps her balance, though I can see in her -- my -- eyes that she's surprised that I can fight back so well. I send her a caustic smile and take a defensive stance, wanting to end this as quickly as possible.

This time, I'm caught off guard. Still clearly possessing her demonic powers, Leyna charges at me quickly, moving so fast that she almost disappears for an instant before flickering back into view and landing a solid punch on my cheek. I'm sent flying across the room from her strength, luckily caught in the strong arms of my husband before I can smash into the marble wall. He steadies me, placing his hands on my shoulders so I can gain my balance again.

At this point, I silently thank that asshole that he calls his father for creating him. Without him, I may not walk away from this.

As my head clears, I see Leyna staring daggers at Lucifer. She's furious because he's siding with me. The idiot's forgotten that despite having my body, Leyna doesn't have my soul. Lucifer could never lover her. She's too cold, too selfish and too rotten to ever give him the TLC he needs. Even if she owned my body, my mind and my soul, she could never be me.

Stepping out of my husband's gentle embrace, the need to strangle this woman almost driving me nuts. I charge at her, giving another good shot to her face and sending her stumbling back. She groans a bit, but recovers and races toward me, missing my face with her fist but managing to scratch my face as a cheap shot.

I cry out, and stumble back, blocking another punch with one hand, while cradling my face with my other. She's scratched me hard enough draw blood, but it's not enough to do any real damage. I pull myself up and we both retreat to our corners, our chests heaving and out eyes watering from the flurry of blows we've taken.

Lucifer steps behind me and pulls me into his embrace, sweeping his wings around me to shield me in case psycho-bitch decides to take another free shot. The chill from his skin shock me awake a bit, forcing my nerves to respond and the gears in my head to start turning.

I stare at Leyna, confused, exhausted and annoyed. Neither of us is going to back down, no matter how many punches we throw. This punch-fest could go on for decades and we'd still be going at it. There's got to be another way to break her down and get my body back.

Maybe...

An idea clicks into my head, one so simple I almost burst out laughing. As much as I want to, I don't need to fight Leyna; I need to get my body back. If kissing me switched us the first time, maybe it will work again.

"Let me go," I whisper.

Lucifer tightens his grip on me. "Michelle."

"I have an idea." My voice is stronger than I feel.

He hesitates, but relents and releases me from his delicious hold. Straightening my spine, I storm over to Leyna, a deep, sarcastic smile plastered to my face. She sees me and bolts upright, her face twisting into a mask of rage. When I come within ten feet of her, she starts screaming at me and throwing wily, directionless punches. I bob and weave easily, making my way closer to her with every step.

Finally, I make it all the way through her gauntlet and come right up to her face, staring into my hate-filled eyes. She growls at me and throws one last punch. I dodge and make my own move, wrapping my hand around her neck and pulling her close. Taking one final breath and mentally crossing my fingers, I press my mouth to her.

The world goes black for an instant, and a bolt of lightening rips through me. I'm weightless for an instant, then incredibly heavy. I'm hit with another bolt of electricity, then I'm jerked backward out of the darkness and into a blinding white light...

I flick my eyes open, staring down at Leyna as my bearings start to roll back into place. I'm dizzy, but my senses slowly come back to me. I can hear my own ragged breathing, feel the beat of my heart in my chest, and feel the soft silk of my gown rubbing against my skin.

Curious, I look down to see that I'm dressed in my usual corset dress. My chest is bursting out as usual, and my own dark brown hair is tickling my shoulders. Looking up, I see Leyna staring up at me, her yellow eyes misty and unfocused, her cherry-red hair wild and unkempt.

YES!

Relief floods through me. I'm back! I've got my own body again! Finally! I almost break way from Leyna and start dancing. After all this fighting and arguing and tears, all it took was a simple kiss to set things straight. I nearly smack myself. Usually, I hate when things are this easy, but right now I'm too ecstatic to care. I've got my own body back and that's enough reason to celebrate.

Leyna's soft moan interrupts my internal celebration. My attention snaps to her, and I watch as she slowly recovers from our switch. Her eyes flicker as she adjusts to her new surrounding, widening when she sees me staring down at her. She gasps, snapping her head down to see herself dressed in her old clothes. She looks up at me, fear, anger and confusion in her eyes.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 04



I smile warmly at her. "Welcome back."

She glares up at me, but my smile never fades. Instead, I curl my hand behind my back, cock my arm as far as it will go, and deliver the hardest punch I've ever given. Leyna cries out and stumbles backwards, crumpling to the floor and cradling her face. I smile proudly, elated to know I'm back and she's down.

I step forward, intending to haul her ass off the floor and smack her again, when the fabric of my dress brushes against my nipples. There's no tug from my piercing, no shivers racing up my spine from the fabric. I screech to a halt, looking down at my chest as I pull the bodice of my dress away. My breasts are plain, my nipples their usual rosy pink. But no gold, no stones. All the effort and care Lucifer used to adorn my skin is gone.

I've gone from mad to furious. She's taken out the few things that symbolize my union with Lucifer, the one way I could prove to the world that we belonged to each other. I snap my head up to stare at her, my eyes narrowing as I give her my you're-fucking-dead glare.

"Lucifer," my tone is surprisingly even despite my anger. "She took out my piercings."

My husband's eyes flick to me, narrowing then relaxing as he realizes what's happened. His smile could outshine the sun, and I sense his desire to steamroll over Leyna and tackle me to the ground. Instead, he manages to control himself enough to focus on my source of anger. His gaze shifts back to Leyna, his golden orbs narrowing in silent fury.

"Indeed she did. What should we do about that?" He cups his chin with his fingers, staring lovingly at me.

Leyna stares up at me, her sickly yellow eyes filled with fear and anger. She knows how pissed I am -- I had to kiss her to get my body back -- so she's expecting me to go nuclear on her ass and tear her to pieces. I'd love to, believe me I would, but killing is not my forte. I was raised to brush the dirt off my shoulder and keep going. Karma would take care of her children and destroy those who opposed her.

I think it's time Karma took the reigns. She wants Lucifer so badly, she can have him.

I shrug nonchalantly and smile at Lucifer. "I don't care."

Lucifer's warm smile falters a bit. "Michelle, she stole your body."

I keep smiling at Leyna. "Yes, but she lied to you. That's the worse offense."

Leyna's eyes widen in horrified shock. She knows my plan -- she played with Lucifer, so I'm going to toss her to the wolves. Her lip trembles a bit, but I can see in her eyes its anger, not fear, that's diving her to make such a pitiful face. She's a predator, and she'll likely strike if I show any mercy. I may be back in control, but she's not above trying to kill me or switch again.

Before I can scowl back at her, and idea explodes into my head. It's incredibly simple and foolish, and it makes me stop for an instant as I try to rationalize my sudden burst of thought. As I mold it and smooth out the edges, I start to smile. It's a perfect idea.

They fit so well...

"Lucifer," I purr, suddenly feeling more mischievous than I have in years.

His eyes snap to me, curious. "Yes."

"I may have the perfect punishment for out little doppelganger here."

My smile becomes slightly evil, an expression that crosses my face less often than a solar eclipse comes around. I watch as Leyna's eyes suddenly fill with genuine fear. She can't read my mind, but she knows I've gone something very nasty and perfectly fit planned for her.

"How well would a demon and an angel get along together?" I ask innocently.

Lucifer is silent for a moment as he ponders my question. "Oil and water. They'd try to kill each other. Why?"

I raise my eyes to smile at him. "Our Leyna here is a bit of a self-absorbed whiner, wouldn't you say?"

He nods, but stares at me curiously. "Yes..."

I cock my head and grin at him. "Who's the most self-absorbed, whiney angel you know?"

He glares at the floor as he racks his brain for an answer. Suddenly, he goes completely still. He raises his head to stare at me, a most devilish smile crossing his lips. He looks thoroughly pleased with my plan, as if I've just passed Demon Thought Processes 101 with flying colors.

His gaze drifts back down to Leyna, his wicked smile still plastered to his face. "Yes, I agree. She and Michael would make a fine match."

Leyna's eyes early burst out of her skull. She whips her head from me to Lucifer and back again, the panic and anger starting to boil under her skin.

"You bitch!" she screams. "You can't!"

"Why not?" I gaze at her, waiting for her illogical answer.

She's rendered silent, her eyes flicking back and forth frantically as she tries to plan her escape. But she's not going anywhere and she knows it. She's royally fucked.

"Lucifer, how do I call Michael?" I look at him expectantly.

He shrugs, his smile still plastered to his face. "Just go out into the hall, show your tits and call his name. One look at your chest and he'll fly down here in an instant."

I smile back at him and nod, turning towards the door. I take brisk even steps, the train of my dress flowing majestically behind me, slightly brushing against Leyna's arm as I pass by her. I smile down at her, a triumphant, proud smile that makes her scream futilely at me.

If dad could see me now...

I reach the door and grab the handle, then freeze. Belphagor and the other angels are in the hall, waiting for Leyna to come out so they can drop her dead. But they have no idea we've switched back to normal, so if I go prancing out there, I might get seriously injured.

"Lucifer," I turn to face him. "Belphagor?"

His head snaps up and he races to the door, gently nudging me aside, he pulls the massive block of wood open and takes a single step out into the hallway. He turns quickly, pointing a finger at Leyna and commanding her in his demonic tongue to stay put. Honestly, I don't think she would move if she could.

"Belphagor! It's Michelle! Lay down your weapons!" he shouts into the air.

There's an eerie silence as he steps back, smiling at me and bowing so I can pass. I hesitate, peering out into the silent hell, my guts turning out of instinctive fear.

"You're sure they won't attack me?" I ask shakily.

He straightens and kisses my neck. "I promise."

I inhale a slow breath. "If you're sending me to my death, I swear I'm coming back as a ghost and haunting your ass."

He stills. "Why would you think that?" He sounds wounded, almost pained to know I don't trust him.

Oh...that earned us some sexy time, didn't it?

I hate to admit it, but I still have some reservations about my fallen husband. I love him with all my heart, but he is a trickster who's been know to turn on those who care about him the most. If he can lie and turn against his father, he can lie and turn against me.

My silence is enough to answer his question. His eyes slide to the floor, pained and starting to well with tears. Mine do as well, my conscience screaming at me for my mistake. But I can see in his expression that he understands my fear. He would never deny that he's tossed a few good friends and family members into the fire, so my fears aren't foolish. Still, I've stabbed him in the heart. I did so with a needle, so he won't die or fall apart on me, but it still hurts.

I shake my head and turn to face him, throwing my arms around his shoulders and pressing my face against his solid chest. His arms close around me automatically and he holds me tight, forgiving me when no one else would. I moan softly into his skin, voicing my stupidity and regret. I can hear the rumble in his chest as laughter bubbles up, and his hands gently stroke my hair.

"Don't be," he whispers into my hair. "You're more right than you know. I would never throw you into a situation where you might get hurt. I care about you too much. But I have done it in the past. You have every right to be apprehensive."

At this point, I wonder if Michael would be so forgiving. Taking an uneasy breath, I gently pull away from Lucifer, snapping my head to the floor so I don't have to look at him. He doesn't take my silence, and reaches down and tips my chin up with his fingers. He's smiling warmly at me, then leans forward and kisses me long and hard. I kiss him back, apologizing for my stupid remark and begging his forgiveness.

He responds by stepping forward, pressing my back against the door and pinning me in place. One hand snakes down past my hips and grips my thing, hauling it up and locking my knee over his hip. It's a mirror image of our time in the hallway, but less I-really-missed-you and more I'm-really-sorry-can-we-have-make-up-sex-now?

Reaching down with icy hands, Lucifer tugs at the remaining two chains on my dress, pulling them away from their silver rivets and setting my dress free. The two panels at the front of my dress fall away, allowing my breasts to spring forth into the warm, dry air. My nipples, bereft of their protective piercings, are sensitive to the change and harden instantly.

Lucifer takes this opportunity in full, dipping his head and suckling at my breast hard enough to make me squirm. I gasp softly and weave my fingers through his tousled hair, holding him close as he teases and torments my flesh. I moan softly and arch my back so he can pleasure me more. He takes the hint and intensifies his play, gently biting and tugging at my nipples until I'm writhing against the rough wood of the door.

In a small, clear corner of my mind, I realize that Leyna must be watching us. My pride swells at the thought of my rival -- the woman who nearly stole everything from me -- being forced to watch as Lucifer and I get hot and bothered. She must be fuming and I'm having the time of my life.

He pulls away too soon, but leans forward and kisses me again to make up for it. I smile against his lips, relieved to have been forgiven so quickly and so pleasurably. I need to act out more often.

Pulling away from his kiss, I toss my head back against the rough wood of the door and take a deep breath. Closing my eyes, I steady myself against my husband and prepare for an onslaught of being ogled and reprimanded by an angle less captivating then my own.

"Michael!" I call out as loudly as I can, my gut twisting as I say the name. He's the last person I want to see, but the best way I can think of to punish Leyna.

Lucifer steps back, giving me one last kiss before he strides back to Leyna. "Seduce the hell out of him. I'll do the rest."

I glance at him, nervous. "You can force him into this?"

He smiles proudly. "He'll be in my house, not dad's. It's my rules and my powers that run this place. He won't have a choice."

I smile back and nod, grateful to have such a powerful man by my side. Watching silently, I see Lucifer grab Leyna's arm and haul her to her feet. She stares up at him fearfully; he smiles back mischievously. I sigh, relieved, look out into the hall, waiting for our guest to arrive.

Nothing.

I scowl. "How long does he usually take?"

"Not this long," Lucifer's as confused and annoyed as I am.

I exhale sharply and set my tone to honey-sweet. "Michael. I need to talk to you. You were right about Lucifer -- he doesn't love me. I'm...I'm considering going back."

A soft breeze flutters past me, and I hear that fait whisper of feathered wings slice through the air. He's definitely here, but I can't see him. The hall is still empty; he must be hiding on the ceiling. I sigh. This boy is going to need a bit more sugar in his coffee.

"Michael, please," I please softly. "I really want to come back. I miss my family. I miss my school. I-I miss my dad. I don't want to be married to Lucifer anymore! Please!"

Suddenly panicked, I look back at my husband, praying he doesn't believe a word I've just said. Instead, Lucifer smiles widely at me, ushering me to keep up the charade. He's got Leyna hidden behind him, ready for Michael when he takes the bait.

I smile and nod, turning my attention back to the vacant hall. "Michael...if I...if I offered you something...would you help me out of this?"

"And what kind of something are we taking about?" Michael's deep, seductive voice floods the hallway, nearly knocking me off balance.

I hesitate, looking back at Lucifer for the go-ahead. He and Leyna have moved to one side of the room, out of sight if Michael should take the bait. He gives it willingly, almost excited to see his brother fall into his trap so easily. I take a deep breath and focus on the hallway once again.

"I'm not sure...what would you...like?" I make my voice shakier than I feel, trying to play the part of the nervous, scorned lover.

"Oh..." He purrs into the air. "So many options, so little time."

Ugh! Gross!

I can't help my giggle. "I though you angels were supposed to be chaste and holy."

"We are, but we can afford a little playtime here and there. I've been very good this year, so I can afford what most can't."

What? You're suddenly on Santa's nice list?

"Well..." I forcibly stumble on my words, acting shyer than I really am. "I guess you can have your pick."

There's a silence for a moment. "Where's your husband?"

"Down in the Fire Pits. He has some business to take care of with Beelzebub. He'll be stuck down there for another few hours figuring out which souls go where."

"Ah, a clog in the pipes. Yes, that should keep him occupied for a bit. Very well then."

He drops down from the ceiling, his white wings flaring out around him. He stands up, flexing his thick muscles and staring at me like a starving dog. A sly smile I plastered on his face. He may not be fond of his brother of his work, but the idea of bedding Lucifer's nubile little queen has made Michael a bit more accepting of our heating surroundings.

He takes a slow, sensual step forward. "Let's talk business."

Thankfully, I've spent too much time rolling around with my husband to find him sexually attractive, so easily I shift into shy seductress mode and let him have it.

I force myself to nod shakily. "Alright. What is it that you'd like?"

He looks me over a few times before his eyes settle on my breasts. "Those will do for a start."

I pull back an inch. "For a start?"

There's no split payments for this! This isn't a bank loan!

His smile grows mischievous. "I may not be as cruel as my brother, but I do charge a high fee. Now, do you want my help or not?"

I sigh and drop my head. "Yes."

"Good." He steps forward, his hand lashing out to snake around my waist. He jerks me close against him, the heat from his skin searing my own. "Hold still."

Before I can protest, he dips his head and wraps his lips around one of my bare nipples. The sensation is sharp thanks to the absence of my piercings, but not pleasurable. Nothing, not even Michael's tongue, compares to my husband's skill and technique. He can tease me all he wants, but I will never find him enticing.

As Michael takes his payment, my eyes flick over to my husband hiding in the shadows. He's biting his lips to keep from screaming, but his eyes tell me to keep the game going. I need to convince Michael that I really need help. To do that, I'll need to turn up the volume and play along.

I mouth an apology and force a moan from my throat. It's convincing enough for Michael to tug harder, and I weave my fingers into his thick hair to push him farther. While I sound like I'm having the time of my life, I'm really just staring up the ceiling waiting for my husband to make his move...which had better be soon or else I'm going to punch Michael in the dick.

Seconds later, Michael pulls away, straightening so he can grin down at me. Thankfully, an honest blush floods my cheeks, making me look all the more convincing as I look away shyly.

"You are delicious, Michelle." He licks his lips playfully. "If only you were mine."

I offer a faint smile and glance at Lucifer. He smiles back at me and nods, jerking Leyna up from the floor as he readies himself for the attack. I'm relieved that he's finally ready to help me, but I still need to play my part. Begrudgingly, I turn back to Michael, my eyes filled with false hope and worry.

"Now, then. For the rest of my payment..."His smile widens a bit, and he steps back and begins to undo his pants.

EWW!

"Oh, Michelle. Do I have a surprise for you." He croons to me softly, his tone light and airy, filled with joy and a little bit of mischief.

"My dear brother," Lucifer hums as he steps out from the shadows. "And I have a surprise for you."

* * *

Okay, so chapter 5 is in production. This probably won't be a 10-chapter story like Kara or Claire's, so I'll probably do about two more and finish this fairy-tale. Sorry guys, but I just don't think I'll be able to stretch it out six more chapters. Michelle and Lucifer do need some time alone. ;)



The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



Okay. I have good news and bad news. The good news it this chapter will finally take care of Leyna and Lilith and set things straight. The bad news is this is the last chapter. I'm sorry, but there's no way I can find to extend this series without making it campy and predictable. Michelle and Lucifer have gone through so much shit already, I think it's time we wrap this story up and let them be.

 Also, I apologize for taking so long to write this one. Final exams wiped all of my creativity, so I had to start working from the beginning to get my mind turning again. But I managed to finish it just before the angry mob broke down the door and demanded answers.

 Enjoy.

Chapter 5: Peace at Last (Mostly)

Lucifer steps forward, dragging Leyna with him as he approaches Michael. It takes the glorious un-fallen angel a second to actually register his brother's voice. His eyes narrow in confusion, not sure what to make of the situation. He'd come here to ravage me and haul me back to the mortal world, and yet his brother, previously hidden in the shadows, is slowly creeping up on him like the predator his is.

Still frozen in place in front of Michael, I steal a glance at my husband. His warm amber eyes are focused, seeing nothing and no one but his meddling brother. His grip on Leyna's slender wrist would be enough to crack stone, yet he drags her along as if she's made of glass. I understand: if this trick is to go over well, it's best to leave the merchandise alone, lest he risk further damage to an already worthless piece.

Ugh, just kill her already...

As Michael turns to face his brother, I start to worry this plan might not end up being as triumphant as we need it to be. Both he and Leyna have tried to break up my marriage to Lucifer, although Leyna was far more successful. But even though Michael didn't do quite as much damage, he still tried to interfere with me and my husband. In my book that's a big no-no, so there's still a risk that he'll pussy out and race away.

Panicking, I reach out and grab Michael's free arm, holding onto him with everything I've got so he won't fly away. He whips his head around to glare at me, recognizing the trap. I'm terrified, but I don't let go. I've suffered through too much shit at the hands of these two vermin, and I'm not about to back down and fail my husband now.

Michael's eyes narrow at me in fury. "You! You set me up! Little bitch!" His arms pulls back and I can almost see crosshairs forming on my head.

I take a tiny step back, trying to put another inch of distance between us, but my grip stays firm. I'm queen, damn it. I may be scared, but I'll stand my ground if it means getting back at the ones who fucked with me. And Michael majorly tried to fuck with me. Just as the archangel is about to swing, Lucifer's free hand shoots out and catches his brother by the wrist. Relieved to not have my head smacked off, I peek around Michael's hulking form to see my husband.

Michael has picked a bad time to attack me. Standing so close to each other, I notice that not only is Lucifer the older sibling, he's also a good two inches taller than his brown-nosing brother. There's a fury in his eyes I've never seen before, but it's with good reason. Michael is a pain in his brother's ass, and even Lucifer can only take so much. Lashing out at his beloved queen was the straw that broke the demon's back.

Lucifer jerks Michael's hand down out of firing range, tightening his grip so I can actually hear the bones crack. Michael winces slightly, but remains glaring at his brother with all the anger he can muster. But the archangel's anger is nothing compared to my husband's. Lucifer cocks his head, a slow smile spreading across his lips as he holds his brother tight.

"Tucoric? Nama hisienthor ni sinaromac." The words flow from his mouth like silk, wrapping around my skin and making me shiver.

It's a tongue I've never heard before, much more delicate and fragile than the demonic language used here. It must be the old language he used back in Heaven; a softer, chime-like speech meant to show the gentleness and charm of Paradise.

Huh. Sounds like Elvish.

Michael's eyes widen, then narrow. "This is what you want? A lying, manipulative whore who tricks angels with sex? This is your queen?!"

Lucifer's perfect lips curl up into a soft, sinister smile. "Yes. This is my queen. A woman who cares for me, who's honest with me, who listens to me. A woman who is beautiful, charming, intelligent and strong. Who does lie – at my behest – only to assist me in my punishment of those who tried to ruin us."

Dragging Michael's arm downward, Lucifer drags Leyna out from behind him and jerks her arm forward. He presses their palms together, and a soft sizzle begins to fill the room. Both Leyna and Michael wince at the sound, then panic and start to pull apart. It's a vain attempt; their hands have been welded together, fusing them into one person.

"Yes, brother," Lucifer sneers at Michael. "This is my queen. And now, you have yours."

Still struggling to free herself, Leyna turns to me and glares with everything she's got. She screams and lunges at me, one clawed hand slashing at the air as she takes off. But Michael's solid angelic form is still rooted in place, and she's yanked back to where she was before. I can't help my smile. I've taken back everything that's mine, and she can't even muster the strength to pull away and attack me. She's stuck, trapped with an angel she despises while I watch her struggle. 

Ah, karma. How I love you.

Lucifer steps back, letting the demon and the angel continue struggling to separate for a moment, a wicked smile plastered to his face. He raises his own hands, claps the twice, then waits. A heartbeat later, a blinding beam of light erupts through the roof of our room and surrounds the two struggling immortals. I lift my arm to shield my eyes from the brilliant light, but my eyes start to tear anyway. Lucifer steps beside me and spreads one of his enormous black wings. He reaches out, wrapping his arm around my waist and pulling me against his chest, folding his wings around me until I'm surrounded by darkness.

"Father!" he calls out. "Here is your favored son. He has a guest with him. Take good care of them!"

There's a loud explosion, then silence. Lucifer waits for a few seconds before unfurling his wing, taking the time to allow my eyes to adjust to the suddenly normal light. I pull away gently, looking around the empty room. Leyna and Michael are gone, leaving Lucifer and I completely alone.

"Where did you send them?" I ask quietly.

His cool lips brush my hair in a gentle kiss. "Home. They're both obnoxiously selfish and utterly infuriating, so I figured they'd make a great couple."

I scoff playfully and slap his arm. "You're awful."

He nuzzles my neck. "You married me."

I smile and tilt my head back so he can have more access to my neck. "How long do you think it'll take form them to go nuts?"

"If my father doesn't intervene? Maybe two days. If he does, they'll be separated and Leyna will be executed for crossing enemy lines." His hands drift up the front of my dress and cup my still-bare breasts.

"Poor baby," I purr as he starts to mold my breasts with his fingers.

His soft laughter is music to my ears, and his cold hands add fuel to my growing fire of need. Now that Leyna and Michael are gone, Lucifer and I can finally have some well-deserved alone time. And I need my alone time with my husband. After the huge mess Leyna threw me into, I'm dying for some attention and loving from my man-angel-thing.

"You know..." I draw out the words seductively. "I never got that bath I wanted."

He literally growls in my ear. "You're right. You've been stuck inside Leyna's body all day." Moving smoothly, he scoops me into his arms and turns toward the doors that lead to the bathroom. "Let's get you cleaned up."

I giggle and kick my legs up so I can nestle in his grip. Looping my arms around his neck, I press my cheek against the icy skin of his chest, taking the time to revel in my husband's touch once again. It's lovely being back in my own body with my husband's arms holding me tight. So wonderful, really, I doubt Heaven could compare with this.

He laughs softly and kicks the bathroom door open. "Good to have you back."

I moan softly and nuzzle his chest. "Good to be back."

As we enter the lavish bathroom, Lucifer gently softens his grip on me, letting me gently slide to the floor. I turn to face him, reaching up so I can pull him into a kiss. Instead, he smiles and grips my shoulders, spinning me around so I face the full, steaming tub.

"Not yet," he whispers in my ear. "Let's get you bathed first. We have the rest of the day to destroy the room."

Still slightly disappointed that I didn't get my kiss – one I think I deserve at this point – I stand quietly as he unlaces me from my dress. It comes off easily, gliding off my skin and pooling at my feet. The sudden rush of warm air makes goosebumps rise on my skin and make my nipples peak almost painfully. Icy hands press against my shoulders, urging me forward towards the bath.

"Come on, you. In."

I laugh softly. "Yes, sire."

We reach the bath quickly, although Lucifer's still pushing against my shoulders, trying to coax me in. Staring down at the steaming, crystal water, I really want to. It looks so good and inviting and perfect. But I also want Lucifer to join me. After our last adventure in this tub, bathing by myself seems lonely and painful and not nearly as fun.

Spinning around, I successfully loop my arms around my husband's neck and pull him in for a kiss. Lucifer, while take aback slightly, smiles against my lips and kisses me back. I pull him tight against me, taking a step back so that the backs of my thighs press against the warm stone of the bath. His hands go everywhere, touching every inch of my skin in a slow, loving caress. It's delicious, almost addictive. 

I married this creature. Fucking score!

I pull away just long enough to catch my breath. "Join me?"

Lucifer gives me a winning smile. "You ask?"

"Good." I give my own mischievous smile.

I step back, pressing my legs hard against the smooth edge of the tub. It's enough to knock my body off balance, and the two of us collapse into the warm water below. We sink to the bottom of the tub, sending a tidal wave of water spilling onto the floor. I rise up, dragging a deep breath of cool air and laughing. Lucifer breaks the surface just inches away, sputtering and shaking his head to clear it.

I swim to the far side of the tub, tipping my head over the edge and laughing so hard my belly starts to hurt. Out of the corner of my eye I see Lucifer is giving me a mix of annoyance and devilish glee. His wings are soaked, preventing him from taking off, so he's stuck here with me until we finish. The poor thing, although I don't think he'll mind all that much.

Slowly, I regain my senses and reach out to him with my hands, begging him to come closer. He gives a wicked smile and launches himself from the other end of the tub, using his wings as breaks to slow down as he nears me. He glides toward me, stopping just inches away from my now heated skin. His wings, still soaking wet, lift and flare out over the tub, trying to dry themselves. Lucifer himself inches closer to me, stopping just short of pressing his icy body to mine.

I pout and grab his shoulders, trying to pull him closer. He resists, holding so still it's almost like he's a statue. I pull my hands away and deepen my pout. I make my eyes as big and guileless as I can, hoping to play the sweet girl image enough that he'll finally give me some relief.

"What?" I ask innocently.

His brilliant smile remains. "That was a clever trick, Michelle. Almost cruel."

I scoff playfully. "I know. I'm so mean to you, aren't I?" 

I lean forward, looping my arms around his neck and hauling myself up so my breasts are at his eye level. I can see the flicker of lust pass through those gorgeous amber orbs, and I decide to take full advantage of his weakness. I run my fingers through his soft, wet hair, pulling him closer so that his face is pressed against my breasts.

"You're right. That was very cruel of me," I purr. "How can I ever make it up to you?"

He's still for a moment, his face crushed against my breasts, his breathing shallow and his eyes closed. Finally he pulls away and rises up so he can look me in the eyes. I give yet another innocent smile as he creases his brow in concentration. His warm golden eyes flick to me, and a devilish smile crosses his lips.

"That last piercing you mentioned..." he draws the words out torturously. 

I stop and think for a moment, my memory slowly coming back. "On my clit? Yeah?"

His smile widens an inch. "After our bath."

I pull back an inch, biting my lip in apprehension. I know that particular part of my body very well, and I know it can't take much of anything before it starts to hurt. The idea of having a slender ring of metal jammed through it isn't very appealing, but I did tell him about it as a means to solidify our bond. I've dug my own grave for this one.

Nice one, genius. Any more brilliant ideas you want to give him?

I glance back to him. Lucifer is kneeling in the tub, staring at me with a mix of curiosity and worry. His wings have relaxed a bit, slightly folded against his back and soaking in the water. He looks honestly worried, but not surprised. I told him the first night we were married that I didn't like pain, so he knows how apprehensive I can be about things like this. Hell, it was hard enough for me to let him pierce me the first three times, so this will be extra difficult. 

I take a slow breath and stare at him. "You promise to counteract the pain?"

His smile returns with a vengeance. "I promise. Your pick."

"My pick?" I arch a brow at him, another smile replacing my nervous frown. "I get to pick the way I've relieved?"

He nods, his smile still plastered to his face. I mull my options over for a moment until I settle on the thing I want the most: my curiosity of being eaten out satisfied. I've never experienced it, though I've given more than enough bj's to have earned such an honor, so I'm dying to know what all the fuss is about. 

"Fine, then." I straighten my spine and stare into his hypnotic eyes. "You get to pierce my clit, and I get to have you devour me. Deal?"

His smile nearly splits his face in half. "Deal."

Good." I hold my arms out a second time. "Now come here. I've been stuck inside Leyna all day and I'm dying for you to tear me to pieces."

"My lady, I'm all yours," he croons. 

He leans forward, pressing his chest against mine and forcing me back against the edge of the tub. I go willingly, almost hypnotized by the icy chill of his skin. I love it; it's cool and calming and oh-so-seductive. It's the physical version of crème Brule.

My back pressed against warm, smooth stone, I welcome his cold, loving embrace with abandon. It's wonderful to feel him against me again. His impossibly strong hands reach down and grip my hips, lifting my body off the bottom of the tub and suspending me in the water. I reach out and grip the edge of the tub for support. On land, I can flip, walk, run and kick ass. In water, I'm a rock.

Lucifer edges closer until his hips are directly under mine. He kneels in the tub and slowly brings my hips down to meet his. My ass rests on his legs while his cock presses against the cleft between my thighs. It's enough to make me shiver slightly, the anticipation inside me building into an inferno. My body is begging, nearly screaming for him; my mind is slowly losing itself. All for this fallen angel.

Dear god, what's happened to me?

Lucifer pulls my hips forward an inch, pressing his cock harder against me. I squirm and moan his name, begging him to stop his endless tortures and finally get down to business.

"I don't now, Michelle..." his voice is low, playful and sinister at once. "I'm still upset with you over that trick."

I moan desperately. "Lucifer! Please!"

"Oh. Is my poor queen getting desperate?" He laughs at my discomfort, pressing the head of his cock against my slit just to tease me. "Perhaps you should have thought about this before dragging me underwater."

At this point, my body is so fired up I'm an inch away from spontaneously combusting. His teasing isn't helping much to quench the blaze. My mind is slowly beginning to unravel, steadily sending me into a lust-fueled haze of madness. I shake my head to clear it, glaring down at my impossibly beautiful husband. I scowl at him, part annoyance, part need. 

If he can play games, so can I.

"Fuck me, or no more blowjobs. Ever." I growl.

His evil smile fades, replaced by a look of pained worry. I smile inside. I've hit his weak spot. As manipulative and cruel as he is, my bj's have the power to bring him to his knees. I'm fairly sure that going one week without me sucking him off will drive him nuts.

Ha! Gotcha.

He shakes his head, scowling. "No ultimatums."

I glare at him. "Lucifer."

His eyes flick to me. "None, got it? Or no sex for you. Ever."

"Come on!" I groan, desperation starting to pool in my head.

He shakes his head. "Promise me. No ultimatums."

The lust I'd been feeling seconds ago has been replaced by a severe case of annoyance. I love my husband and I still want him, but his attitude and games are getting under my skin. I've survived a night in Leyna's skin, dealt with Lilith and her shitty attitude and managed to claw my life back. And now, I'm stuck with a painfully seductive husband who's determined to play mind games for his own enjoyment.

Honestly, I'm done for the night.

"Fine, then!" I snap.

I pull my hips back sharply, ripping them out of his grip. I glare at him and grab the sides of the tub and haul myself up. I swing my legs over the edge and hop off, landing gently on the slick tile. Cautiously, I spin around the tub and march towards the door, my body still starving but my mind completely fed up. 

"Michelle!" Lucifer calls after me, confusion and pain in his voice.

I skid to a stop, glaring at him over my shoulder. "No! I've been through ten tons of shit tonight. All I wanted was a bath, some good, hot sex and a quick piercing. And you can't even manage all of that without trying to fuck with me!" 

His eyes are a mix of confusion and irritation, as if I don't get his sense of humor. "I was just having a little fun."

I nearly explode. "Then have fun with yourself! I'm going to bed!" 

I resume my angered marching, my mind set on leaving him in that corner so he can think about what he's done. My body is still on fire, but my emotions are far too volatile to allow for any make-up sex. If Lucifer won't give me relief, I'll head to bed and do it myself.

"Michelle! Come on!" He clambers out of the tub and starts to chase after me. "Come back."

He closes in on me just as I pass through the door to the bedroom. On fury-fueled instinct, I spin around, grab the edge of the door and slam it closed. I watch as it comes within millimeters of smacking him in the face, but I'm too pissed to care. I spin again, storming towards the bed with new determination. My body is craving release, and I'm gong to have it with or without his help.

I hear the door swing open behind me and smash against the wall. I do my best to ignore it, but a tiny spark of fear suddenly races up my spine. As angry as I am, Lucifer is an immortal with a legendary temperament. In a battle of pissed-off wills, he could crush me any day. That, and he's about fifteen times stronger than I am, so fighting back is a lost cause for me. I guess sex deprivation will have to do. 




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



"Michelle." His voice is low, threatening and deadly. "Come here."

I don't turn around, instead keeping my focus on the bed. "Fuck you."

Oh, goody. Our first major fight.

"Michelle," he warns again.

"Stop it," I hiss back. "I'm not in the mood."

"I don't give a fuck. Get back here."

I don't give a fuck either.

I make it to the bed, still furious. I flip the sheets back, hop into the cool bedding and yank them back up, rolling onto my side so I don't have to look at him. This is ridiculous – us fighting over sex and making ultimatums – but I've been through hell tonight and he doesn't seem to care. As hard as it is to admit, I can kind of see why God kicked him out of Heaven. He's gorgeous and intelligent and, at times, an amazingly loving person. But he's also got the attitude of a spoiled five-year-old mixed with an inch-long fuse. Not a good combination, and tonight I'm getting the full dose of Lucifer's tantrum.

I smash my head into the pillow and glare at the wall. There's silence on his side of the room, so I close my eyes and try to force myself to sleep. It's always easier for me to deal with situations like this after a nap – it gives me a chance to cool off and regroup my thoughts – so maybe we can talk this out like adults after we've have a moment to breathe.

I don't get my wish. My eyes still closed, I hear soft footsteps cross the room and stop at the edge of the bed. Seconds later, the sheets are pulled away and icy hands have grabbed my ankles. I cry out in surprise as I'm rolled onto my stomach and twisted so only my torso and head remain on the bed. My legs dangle over the sides, my feet barely able to graze the ground. Two loops of scorched black vines spring up from the floor and wrap around my wrists, pulling back so I'm held in place.

I panic and struggle against my restraints, fear replacing any anger I once had. I knew pissing him off wouldn't be the best idea, but I never thought he'd actually punish me.

"Lucifer!" I cry out, my voice filled with panic.

"You're queen now. It's time I taught you about respect." His voice is dark, almost malicious, tinged with an evil smile I never want to see.

A heartbeat later, the palm of his hand comes down on one side of my ass, smacking me hard enough to go beyond the normal sting. I cry out, both in surprise and pain. I realize now that telling him I hated pain was a mistake. It's ammunition he can use against me if I get too far out of control. Or, if I don't do what he wants, it's a tool he has to get me back in line.

A second smack, harder than the first, makes me cry out again. This isn't any playful punishment meant to tease me into submission. This is the real thing. He's pissed, and now he's got a way to take out his anger.

"Apologize," he growls.

Another smack, this time on the other side of my ass, catches me off guard before I can respond. My fingers dig into the sheets, still restrained by the vine-like restraints that hold them.

"I said apologize!"

Again, before I can speak, he rains down two more hard smacks, one for either cheek. These are even harder, closer to abuse than punishment. Tears start to prick at my eyes, and I do my best to formulate the words in my mouth.

"Damn it, Michelle! Say it!"

Another vicious smack causes my mind to short-circuit. I now realize his new game: he smacks me every time I try to say I'm sorry. In his fury-fueled mind, he doesn't actually want me to say it just yet. He wants to take out his frustration first, then we can start rebuilding out bond. He's probably so blinded by anger, he doesn't even realize how hard he's hitting me. Unfortunately, that doesn't make my situation any better, just more confusing.

I'm starting to cry at this point, burying my face into the sheets to muffle my sobs. This hurts, and I start to question if our marriage will truly ever work. He's got a much more volatile temper than I do, and I'm probably the most insubordinate woman who's ever caught his eye. If this happens every time I mouth off, I may have to do the unthinkable and seek out a lawyer. On the bright side, I'm in hell, so finding one here should be insanely easy.

"Say it!" He sends one more vicious smack and I break.

"I'M SORRY!" I scream it into the air loud enough that people in Scotland are probably wondering who was yelling.

I sink back into the bed, sobbing into the sheets. My ass is on fire from his brutal punishment, and I wonder if I'll even be able to sit down in the morning. I hear a sharp intake of breath and watch as the vines that had held me down free my hands and retreat into the floor. Released from my restraints, I roll onto my side and curl into a tight ball, still crying out my pain and fear. 

The bed dips beside me and Lucifer's cold hand reaches out to stroke my shoulder. I flinch away involuntarily, still frightened that this might just be another series of tortures he's been waiting to dish out. Instead, his hand travels south, sliding around my waist and gently pulling me against him. When my shoulder blades touch his chiseled chest, his night-black wing swoops over and cloaks me in darkness again. The soft feathers tickle my skin, and his cool lips press into my hair.

"Oh, Michelle," he whispers, his voice hollow and cracking. "I'm so sorry. I never meant to hurt you. I was just so angry that you didn't give me a chance to explain."

Well, dumbass. Did you learn your lesson?

I stay quiet, softly crying out the last of my tears. I know he never meant to harm me, but he did. I still love him with all my heart, but I've learned not to allow myself to be so angry at him. Walking away probably fired up his old fear of being abandoned, and my attitude probably set off his microscopic fuse because he thought I was challenging him. Stupid me. Justified, but stupid.

Wiping away any residual tears, I suck in a sharp breath and try to face him. "I'm sorry."

He hugs me tighter, burying his face in my hair and stroking my arms. "No, no, no, Michelle. I'm sorry. I should have never lost myself like that. I should have walked away like you did. I'm so sorry, Michelle. I just...you didn't deserve that. You never deserve anything like that. This was my fault. All my fault." 

Warm tears seep into my hair, calming my broken heart slightly. I sigh quietly in relief. He does care, and he does regret going after me like that. He just lost control, the fear and the anger overriding his reason and love. 

"Forgive me," he pleads. "Please."

I nod, my heart mending itself quicker than expected. "Yes."

"Thank God," he whispers. "I swear to you on whatever soul I have left, I will never harm you again. I swear it."

I manage a small smile. "I promise. No more ultimatums."

He laughs into my hair, a sign of mutual relief and forgiveness. My heart has finally healed itself, allowing me to take a cleansing breath of sweet calmness. It's been one hell of a night – Leyna, Michael, this fight – but we've survived. I'm back home with my husband, Leyna and Michael are both gone, and the two of us have recovered from our first vicious fight. All in all, a successful day.

Still lying in his arms, the chill of Lucifer's hands starts to rev my body up once again. That bonfire is back again, and my skin itches for a different type of sex: I want it slow and steady, something that will set me alight without breaking every bone I have. I want him again, a sure sign that I'm back to normal. 

"I know how you can make this up to me..." I whisper into the soft sheets.

He feverishly begins to kiss my hair. "Yes, yes, of course! Anything."

I smother my tiny laugh and gently take his cold hand in mine. I lead him down to my thighs, twisting his arm so his fingers slide between my legs and brush against my sex. It's just enough to make me twitch in yearning, and thankfully Lucifer is more than ready to play nice. He laughs into my hair again and takes the reigns, pressing his middle finger hard against my clit and spinning it delicious circles. I moan and close my eyes, savoring both the wonderful feeling of finally finding relief and of having my playful, loving husband back once more.

I shiver against him, savoring the feeling of his finger twisting in and around my sex. His free hand reaches up to fondle my breast, making me bite my lip and arch my back. A hear another soft laugh and feel his cold hands start to work harder, his palm chilling my nipple to a solid point and two finger dipping inside my pussy. I moan softly and burying my face in the sheets and whispering his name. After his rough punishment, he's hell bent of proving himself to be a caring, dutiful lover again. 

Honestly, he's doing a great job proving his point.

"More," I whisper. "Please more."

"As you wish."

His hands leave my skin for an instant, leaving me empty and begging for his comfort. His icy fingers return to my skin, gripping my hip to roll me over onto my stomach. I go willingly, anxiously waiting for him to render me breathless like he always does. He shift, kneeling behind me and grabbing my ass to pull me up and back, setting me in the same position that he'd used to claim my virginity.

I'm nearly shaking out of excitement. He'd taken me this way on our wedding night, and it was fantastic. When he brushes against my ass, I can barely keep myself from screaming out my joy and rubbing against him. His cock brushes my thigh, ice cold and solid as granite. I bit my lip and anticipation. I lean back slightly, begging him silently to give me more, to tear me to pieces like I've been craving all night. He doesn't disappoint, laughing softly and pressing the tip of his cock against my sex, heartbeats away from ravaging me.

Something in my head clicks, snapping me out of my lust-fueled haze and turning the thinking part of my brain back on. My need is still bordering on desperation, but my body and my mind both want something more than just the basics I know. I want something different, something I'd never normally do.

"Wait," I plead, just in time to prevent him from bucking his hips and driving into me.

He stills, his hands lightly resting on my hips. "What?" His voice is soft, concerned that he may have done something wrong or that I'm having second thoughts.

Truthfully, I am, but only in the way I want to do this. After that round of spanking, I'm craving my chance to be in control, to watch him squirm. I inch away and roll over onto my back, staring up at him with desire-hazy eyes as he watches my in inquisitive confusion. I smile and wrap my legs around his waist, pulling our bodies flush together even though we're still two separate beings for now.

With my legs locking me to him, I simultaneously arch my back forward and press my feet against the small of his back. The weight shift is enough to throw him off balance and he tumbles backward, falling into the bed as I'm hauled forward. I end up kneeling over him, straddling his hips and grinning down at him like a lunatic.

Ha! It worked!

He blinks up at me twice before a sly smile breaks onto his lips. His hands reach out and gently grip my hips, tracing my curves while holding me in place. I smile to myself and rise up enough to reach down and grab his cock in my hand. I help aim his body and ease myself down, savoring the sensation of him inside me again. This new position is wonderful, offering an entirely different way of feeling him as he slips inside. I close my eyes and bite my lip as I finally take the last inch of him inside me, settling down until my ass brushes against his thighs.

I flick my eyes to his, watching his expression change from elated to fiery to expectant. He knows what I want – to have a tiny bit of control and to find my own pleasure - and he's more than willing to oblige. I lean forward and kiss him, jumping at the sensations of him rubbing me in completely new ways. I pull back a bit and smirk down at him, watching the flickers of lust dance in his eyes.

"My turn," I whisper. "I'm going to ride you like a stallion."

He grins back, happier than a kid in a candy store. "Ride away, cowgirl. Show me what you've got."

I can't help my own smile. At last, some good, quality sexy-time with my husband. I brace my hands on his chest and push myself up. The movement makes his cock shift around inside of me, and I shiver. Damn it, that feels good! How I'm able to go an hour without dragging him into bed is a mystery.

Sitting back, I suddenly frown and stare at his sculpted chest. I've never ridden anything before, so I have no idea what I'm doing. My surprise may have been ballsy, but it's also screwed me into a corner. I stare at his golden flesh for a few more seconds until I finally close my eyes and give my mind a quick shake. 

Best guess, I suppose.

Taking a deep breath, I rock my hips forward towards his chest, feeling his body brush against mine in a million different places. The action makes me quiver with delight, and I let out a shaky breath as I try to stabilize myself. I've figured out what to do; now I just need to find my rhythm. I sway backwards, feeling his cock move inside me again. Holy shit, this is fantastic! Even at a slow pace, I could get addicted to this.

Having figure out exactly what needed to be done, I start to rock my hips back and forth, finding a slow but steady rhythm that makes me groan and dig my nails into his chest. Lucifer reacts below me, moaning my name and closing his eyes as his back arches off the bed. I grin down at him like a fool despite my own rushes of pleasure. It's a small relief to finally have a few ounces of control. Not enough to dangle over him as a way to assert my tiny amount of authority, but it's enough to make me relax and show him that I'm strong in my own right.

If he'll tie me down and spank me on a bed, then I'll bring him to his knees.

I toss my head back and close my eyes, letting my thoughts and rationality fly out the window. I'm tired, rattled and still a little upset – I'm ready to let loose and grab the bull by the horns. I'll worry about what happens to Lilith later. For right now, my body is craving release, and I'll be damned if that piece of shit will get in the way of me fucking my husband.

On instinct – and with my body screaming for more – I rock my hips faster, making small flickers of lightening race up my spine. It's wonderful, but I'm craving more. Taking a chance, I lean forward an inch, pressing the edge of my pussy against the base of Lucifer's cock. His flesh rubs against my clit, and I gasp in delicious surprise. It's the perfect amount of pressure, and exactly what I needed to wipe my mind clean of any stray Lilith thoughts.

My mind reeling, I barely register my husband's deep, resonating laugh. By the time my brain has recognized that he's laughing at me, his hands have already left my hips and are slowly working their way up my back. They press down slightly, slowly pulling me down against him. I push against his chest, tying to force myself back up, but his grip holds me down. I look up at him, his golden eyes shining in the light of the glow of the hellfire below us. 

"Come here," he croons to me. "You've made your point. Now relax and let me take over."

I'm hesitant, bracing myself against his chest while my stomach brushes against his. My mind and body are warring inside my head, each trying to push the other's opinion aside and come out the victor. My mind wants me to reject his idea and continue riding him myself so I can solidify my stance as his queen and, more importantly, his equal. My body is begging me to collapse into his arms so Lucifer can take control and bring me to his usual mind-blowing climax.

Decisions, decisions...

Lucifer rolls his eyes and gives a soft chuckle before pressing his hands against my shoulder blades and pulling me down. My hands seem to melt away and I'm pulled flush against him, my chest being crushed against his. He rolls his head to the side so I can nestle my cheek against his shoulder, and I fall into my childlike self as I nuzzle his cool skin. He laughs in my ear as his hands slide down my back to my thighs. The grip my legs and pull them forward, forcing me into a semi-hunched position with my torso flush against his and my legs pressing against the sides of his waist.

Lucifer presses his icy lips against my neck, making me shiver at the contact. "Hold tight," he whispers against my skin.

Onto what, exactly?

I don't have time to ask. He bucks his hips upwards, driving his cock deep inside me with deadly precision. Unbeknownst to me, he'd pick this particular position not because it was a good transition from my earlier plan, but because it allowed him to grind against my clit and my sweet spot simultaneously. His motion renders me speechless, the pressure against both points nearly making my head explode. I let out a soft whimper and collapse against his chest, my bones melting under my skin.

He laughs in my ear again. "There we go. That's not so bad now, is it?"

He slams into me again, making me moan into his shoulder and grip the sheets hard enough to crack my knuckles. It's great, fantastic actually, and my body has no intention of letting this feeling pass. Involuntarily, my body clamps down on him, trapping him inside me so he can continue his delicious teasing.

Thankfully, he never stops. He resumes thrusting into me, the pressure making my head spin and my toes curl. His pace is achingly slow, but worth the wait. He gives me just enough time between bursts of pleasure to try to collect my thoughts, then slams into me again and destroys any progress I've made. It's meticulous, well-planned and debilitating. God, he's good.

His aim and determination render any rebellion on my part useless. I end up splayed out on his chest, my face buried against his neck as he continues to slowly but surely thrust into me. I whimper at every shove of his hips, my throat unable to allow anymore sound than a strangled gasp. He continues to laugh in my ear, reveling in his ability to take me from zero to sixty in half a second.

"Stop." I barely manage to whisper the word, my mind beyond hazy and my body on fire. 

He freezes, giving my mind a desperately-needed moment of relief. I can think – and breathe correctly – again. I relax slightly, coming down off the high he'd created for me. My body is screaming at me, wondering why I would dare ask for him to stop that delicious pleasure, but I need to think. I need to breathe.

"Michelle," his hands tighten around me as he whispers my name.

I catch my breath and swallow, clearing my throat. "Please stop. No more teasing. I can't..."

He chuckles again and crushes me against his chest, immobilizing me. "Ah, I see. I'm driving you mad."

Yes, damn it. Now stop fucking around and finish me off!

"Alright. I'll let you go."

Still pinning me against him, he bucks his hips hard against me, forcing a ragged cry from my throat. A stick of dynamite has gone off inside me, and I collapse against his chest again. He goes for gold this time, thrusting into me with the same amount of power but with far more speed. He's relentless, wanting to see me lose control like I always do.

"Dear sweet God," I whisper the words, my mind slowly melting away as my body takes the reigns.

"Not quite," he whispers back. "I can lift you far higher."

He redoubles his efforts, slamming into me with the speed and force of a category five hurricane. I scream into his shoulder, the pressure building inside of me becoming too much to bear. Before I can prepare myself, my body erupts in a shower of sparks and gold. I scream again, digging my hands into the sheets as my body tenses and spasms involuntarily. Flames race up my spine as I collapse into him, my breathing ragged and my heart going fast enough to alert the CHP.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



Below me, Lucifer himself implodes himself. He's quiet through his eruption, but his hands digging into my skin give his weakness away. He groans finally and stiffens against me, unleashing a torrent of semen into me that leaks out of my body and soaks into the sheets. His body spasms below me, but we're both finally satisfied. I smile against his shoulder and stroke his biceps with my fingers. After all that effort, the man deserves a little relaxation.

After several seconds, he stills below me, letting out a slow breath that devolves into a chuckle. "Feel better?"

I nod against his shoulder. "Much. You're very good at that."

"Glad you approve." He leans in and kisses my neck.

Kind of hard not to...

I settle in against him, pressing my body flush to his and nuzzling his throat. It nice to feel him again and know that we've forgiven each other. As odd and blasphemous as it sounds, I feel more at home here than anywhere else. Honestly, though, he's exhausted me, and I feel my body slowly start to relax against his as my mind tries to switch into sleep mode.

"What now?" I ask sleepily.

He sighs and stays quiet for a moment. As exhausted as I am, I secretly hope he'll suggest another round of furniture-smashing sex or a calming walk along the edges of the Styx that will let us clear our heads. Or a nice long nap.

Nap. Nap. Please say nap.

He sighs again. "I suppose we deal with Lilith."

FUCK!

I scowl at the wall. Lilith is the last issue I want to work out right now. I've just had some great welcome-back make-up sex with my husband and recovered my crown from Leyna; I don't need superbitch ruining all my hard work. Without thinking, I let out an annoyed groan and squeeze my eyes shut, trying to block out the sound of her stupid laugh.

"I know." Lucifer whispers as he strokes my back faster. "I'm not happy about it either. But it's something that has to be dealt with. She practically sacrificed you and turned her back on everyone here. That's an act that can't be forgiven or forgotten."

I nod and give him a small kiss on his shoulder. He's right: the sooner we do this, the sooner she's out of the way. Still, she's got to know Lucifer's pissed at her, and I know she'll try to pull some sleight of hand to weasel her way out of her punishment. I just hope he can see through her tricks and put her in her place.

Below me, my husband stirs. He lifts his hips and slides his body free of mine, leaving me feeling suddenly empty and hollow. Groaning, Lucifer gently rolls me off of him, pushing himself upright and tapping my shoulder. I sigh and mirror him, now severely unhappy about being superheated from him and at the thought of dealing with Lilith. He runs his fingers up my spine and kisses my shoulder, then slips off the bed onto the floor, bending down to scoop up the heap of fabric that is my gown. He holds it out in front of him, grinning like a fool.

I can't help but smile back. He's so childlike at times it's almost absurd. It's also very disarming, and it feels like his smile can break down any barrier I have and make me a thousand times more agreeable no matter how angry I am. 

I roll my eyes and slip off the bed, making my way over to him. He spins the dress around and holds it open for me. I grip his shoulders and step into the dress, spinning around so he can lace it up. As he pulls the velvet ribbons tight, I look down and rediscover that every last chain on the front of my dress is gone. The last two were pulled apart during my tempting of Michael, leaving every single inch of my cleavage open to view. The front panels still cover a good portion of my chest, but very little is left to the imagination now.

"Tarioc!" Lucifer calls out as he laces me up.

Shit! Which one is that?

I flip through my Rolodex of high-ranking demons, hoping that this one isn't high in the chain of command and that I haven't missed meeting him. I'd hate to make an ass out of myself now by forgetting to properly greet a powerful demon.

Tarioc. Wait a minute...

I freeze, my breath catching in my throat and my heart screeching to a halt. Dear God, it's the creepy coachman! I almost collapse out of horror. That creature is living nightmare fuel, and Lucifer has just called him to our room. He'll be lucky to have me in the same room without cowering in the corner waiting for that fiend to leave.

A quick succession of knocks snaps me out of my inner panic. Lucifer calls our guest forward, finally lacing up the last inch of my dress. The door swings open and Tarioc – in all his horrifying glory – strides into the room. He's still wearing his tattered top hat and formal coattail jacket, and his eyes are still that disgusting color of swamp water. He saunters forward, having an almost pimp-like swagger to his step. His eyes find mine, and he gives a regal nod and smiles gently.

I barely keep myself from fainting.

Tarioc stops just feet away from Lucifer and I, executing a prefect bow and standing patiently for instructions. "Sire?"

"Tarioc, I need a favor," Lucifer's tone has switched from warm and loving to cold and commanding. "Fetch Lilith and bring her here. If she asks why, tell her it's about her betrayal of our world and her disregard for the queen's well-being. If she tries escaping, take her down."

Tarioc nods again. "Yes sir."

Lucifer places a hand on my shoulder. "Be careful, Tarioc. You know her. She'll try anything and everything to get out of facing her punishment. Take her alive if you can."

Tarioc bows. "Your will be done, sire." 

He lifts his head and grins at me, showing two matching rows of rotten teeth and blackened gums. I fight the urge to vomit – this man is the living, breathing incarnation of meth-mouth. No wonder he's so highly respected here. He fits in perfectly.

His smile fades, then returns. He straightens and steps forward, reaching out so he can take my hand in his boil-covered hand. He lifts it to his mouth and places a gentle kiss on the back of my hand. On the outside, I look calm and compliant. On the inside, I'm screaming in revulsion.

He smiles softly at me. "Your majesty. I know my appearance is unbecoming, but I promise you that neither my flesh nor my soul will do your harm. I look this way as a punishment for my own faults, but doing damage to one so kind and fair is not in my nature. I am here to protect and serve you, mistress, not harm you."

In the span of thirty seconds, I've gone from reviling this creature to actually liking him. He's the epitome of never judging people by their looks. Behind his horrid eyes and crumbling skin is the soul of a man suffering in eternal pain for his mistakes. He's loyal and honest, doing our dirty work without a single complaint or thought. I'm amazed by him, and I now understand why Lucifer holds him in such high regards.

Well played, sir. I am impressed.

I return his admission with a genuine smile. He grins back, showing more of his disgusting teeth. I respect him and like him now, yes, but he's still hideous.

Satisfied, he pulls back and faces Lucifer again. "The witch will be found, sire. I guarantee it."

Lucifer smiles and nods. "Good. Be quick and harm her as little as possible. I want her alive to face her punishment."

"Sire." Tarioc bows again and steps back. An inky blackness bubbles up around his feet, forming a pool of liquid shadow. He sinks into it, his warm smile still plastered onto his face. Something about his smile makes the gears in my head start turning.

If he tells Lilith the truth, she'll never come.

"Tarioc! Wait!" I step forward, hoping to catch him before he slips out of view.

The demon halts his descent, stopping just as the inky liquid reaches his waist. Hs smile has faded, replaced with a look of confused anticipation. 

"Michelle," Lucifer croons in my ear. His arms wrap around me, holding me tight. "He'll find her. Don't worry."

I shake my head. "I have an idea." I pull out of his embrace and race to the edge of the black pool that holds Tarioc. I gather the hem of my dress so I can kneel beside him, pulling the fabric back so whatever liquid he moves through doesn't stain my gown. I stare into his swamp-colored eyes, making sure I have his attention.

"Don't tell Lilith that she's being called back for punishment. She'll panic and make a run for it." I say, speaking loud enough for Lucifer to hear. "Tell her that Lucifer didn't believe my story about Leyna switching bodies and killed me, but also killed Leyna out of confusion and anger. He's discovered his mistake and is inconsolable, and he needs someone to comfort him."

Tarioc's face has broken into an enormous grin. Out of the corner of my eye, I see my husband barely holding back his laughter. I'm glad they like my plan. It's a nasty trick I'm having them pull, but it's what Lilith deserves.

"Play up the fact that she continually warned him about me failing him. Feed her ego and make sure she knows that he needs someone to help him heal through this tragedy. She'll practically jump at any chance to take my place, so it shouldn't be hard to convince her too come with you."

Tarioc bursts out laughing and lifts a hand from the sticky liquid holding him. He grasps my hand again and kisses it a second time. "An innocent beauty, but an intelligent one as well. Your majesty." He pulls his hand back and continues his descent into the pool of blackness. His top hat disappears beneath the surface, and the pool is drawn into the tile floor, vanishing with him.

A split-second of silence follows, then Lucifer breaks into a round of breathless laughter. I turn around to see him splayed out on the floor, his wings flaring out around him, cackling hysterically.

"Is it really that funny?" I ask, slightly nervous that he thinks my plan absurd.

He catches his breath and turns his head to gaze at me. A lunatic's grin is still plastered on his face. "No, it's beautiful! It's just so perfect! She'll fall for it faster than a brick in the ocean."

I blush shyly. "Thanks." 

He rolls onto his side and stares at me, a gleam of mischief n his warm amber eyes. "Oh, Michelle. You never cease to amuse me. That mind of yours could destroy nations."

Or bitchy women.

I smile back at him, happy to know I've yet again solidified my place as a queen who can handle herself on and off the battlefield. If I can take out Leyna, then I can fight Lilith.

"Tell me about Tarioc," I speak without thinking.

His smile fades, switching to a look of thoughtfulness. "What do you want to know?"

I hesitate, then shrug. "How became the way he is. How he became your wingman." 

He smiles and gives a soft laugh. "Wingman." He rolls onto his back again and pats his chest, beckoning me over. "Come here."

Like a child about to have her bedtime story, I scramble over to him and curl my body up to his, resting my head on his chest. I'm honestly intrigued about our mysterious coachman. He's so dark and intimidating, and yet seems so broken and damaged. I want to know his story.

"Tarioc started out as a normal man, as most demons do. He wasn't an abuser of women or an alcoholic prone to bursts of rage. He was a living, breathing Don Juan."

Tarioc? A womanizer? Impossible!

"Even for Portugal in the eighteen thirties, he was quite the dashing young aristocrat. His hair was lighter then, and his teeth in far better condition. The son of a land-rich count, Adrian-"

Adrian?!

"-was known to be a bit of a womanizer and a gambler. He stayed away from alcohol, though. A nice, honest young man, but loose with his money and his cock. However, as many tragedies go, he happened to fall in love with the daughter of an inn-keeper. He was too far up on the societal ladder to ever consider marrying her, so he contacted me through a crooked monk and made a deal to have the courts change the romantic protocol of the day."

I stay silent, listening intently. I'm stunned. Tarioc was the son of a count? And he lost it all because of a peasant girl? Honorable and romantic, but still stupid.

"I granted him his request and the engagement was made official, but the girl died before the wedding could be arranged. No, I didn't have anything to do with it. There was a nasty streak of cholera going around at the time and she happened to get hit. Blame Pestilence for that one."

Damn. All that work and she dies on him. Poor thing.

"Anyway, with the reason behind his deal gone, I collected on his payment early. He was distraught after losing his fiancé, so he never resisted. All he asked was that I give him something to do while he whittled away the years here. He didn't mind going to Hell for making his deal, he simply didn't want to go mad out of boredom or desperation."

I nod silently, my heart slowly starting to crack for this damaged, broken creature. He was never threatening or menacing. All he wanted was his poor girlfriend. My soul aches for him, and suddenly I'm no longer frightened of our dark traveler.

"It was one of the few times I felt pity for a human. He was so quiet and accepting of his fate. So kind and honest with me. It figured if he could be so calm now, he'd make a great servant later. He still had to hold up his end of the deal – he had to lose his dashing good looks that had captured and broken so many hearts – but other than that, he's got free reign here. He's proved himself indispensible a few times. He's an excellent tracker, and he can hunt down even the most grievous debtor within days. He's also very intelligent and a bit wise beyond his years. He managed to help us outsmart Gabriel and send him crying back to dad when he tried to steal a damned soul back. He's a good man, Michelle, and one of my few dear friends here."

Aww. That's sweet.

I hadn't realized my husband – the bold, brash, unforgiving Lucifer – could be so sentimental. He'd memorized Tarioc's life story for all this time, and never once did he try to divert the subject when I asked. He seemed genuinely proud to know Tarioc. I turned my head and stared up at the delicately tiled ceiling, happy to know my husband does, in fact, have a soft spot somewhere.

As I stared up at the marble ceiling, my thoughts switched to our marriage. Honestly, I'd lost track of the time I'd been here. I was so busy kicking Leyna's ass and trying to be a good queen that I'd completely forgotten how long he and I have been legally bound together. It can't be more than a few weeks.

"Lucifer. How long have we been married?" Maybe he's kept better track of the days.

"Five and a half months."

What?

"That long?" my voice betrays my shock.

"Yep."

I'm stunned. We can't haven been married for five months! It barely feels like three weeks!

"But how?" I turn to stare at him, begging for an answer.

He smiles down at me, running a hand through my hair. "Time moves much faster down here. What feels like days to you is actually weeks. That's what makes the eternity part of punishment here so awful. One day will pass, yet the damned sense it as a month."

I stare at him, dumbfounded. This place is more confusing that calculus, and yet he rules it as if it's the simplest form of equation. There's no stress for him here beyond traitorous succubae and escaping souls, so it should be easy for him. But for me, as an outsider, it's the most screwed up place in the world.

"Five small months," he grins down at me. "Only an eternity left to go."

I manage a small, honest smile. "I don't think I'll mind that."

A thunderous knock at the door snaps us out of our light mood. A quick succession of sharp knocks follows the first, indication that whoever is on the other side is annoyed and very impatient. Lucifer groans and gently pushes himself up, giving me time to haul myself to my feet before her rises to his full height. He reaches out with one arm and presses it against my stomach, forcing me back a few steps so I'm out of the way in case something goes wrong.

"Yes?" His voice shifts from calm and soft to thunderous and unforgiving.

"Sire?" Lilith's sickly-sweet voice comes wafting through the door, making my stomach turn and my blood boil. "Tarioc sent me here. He said you weren't feeling well."

A devilish smile crosses my husband's flawless lips. "Excellent." 

He turns to me and spins me around, gently shoving me towards the bathroom. I go willingly, knowing that for our plan to work I need to be hidden. We reach the doors quickly, and Lucifer opens it just enough that I can slide through. He closes it until only a crack remains, allowing me to stay hidden within the shadows while I watch.

"Stay here," he whispers. "Not a sound until I beckon you."

I nod and blow him a kiss. He grins and reaches out in the air to catch my invisible kiss, fisting his hand over his heart once he does. He spins around and heads toward the bed, spinning around once he reaches it and sits down on the edge. He takes a deep breath and cradles his head in his hands, his wings going limp against his shoulders.

"Master?" Lilith calls out again.

"Yes." Lucifer answers, his voice shaky and broken as if he'd just been weeping.

The door cracks open a bit, and Lilith peeks around the door to scope out the scene, satisfied that I'm 'dead' and that Lucifer is heartbroken, she slips though the door and closes it behind her. There's a vicious smile on her lips, but it disappears after a heartbeat, replaced by a look of heartbroken empathy.

In true Lilith fashion, she's not dressed for the occasion. Supposedly I'm dead and this should be a sorrowful occasion, but she's all dressed up like she's going to a club. She's wearing a skin-tight floor-length ruby gown with braided fabric on the shoulders and an insanely deep neckline that stops at her bellybutton and shows way too much skin. There's a slit on one side of the bottom of the dress that reaches all the way to her hip. It shows every inch of her long legs and her ridiculously embellished six inch heels.

For Lucifer, this is a funeral. For Lilith, it's the Miss America pageant. 

Lilith walks over to the bed, her heels clicking softly on the tile floor. She kneels down on the tile, placing a perfectly manicured hand on my husband's shoulder and giving him her best pouty-face. Lucifer keeps his face cradled in his hands, but his shaky breathing and cracking voice give the illusion of sorrow.

"Oh, master," Lilith purrs. "I'm so sorry."

"I know." Lucifer responds, still sounding horrified and heartbroken.

"I warned you she'd be easy to lose." Her voice is soft, but there's a tiny hint of joy in it. 

Lilith starts stroking Lucifer's back, an action that almost makes me go nuts and storm out of the bathroom. Somehow, I keep my anger and possessiveness down – great, now I'm the jealous one – and stay quiet, waiting for the moment Lucifer calls me in to join the show.

"Humans always are," Lilith continues to stroke his shoulders as she rubs my demise into him. "They're fragile and uneducated about our world. It must have been painfully easy for Leyna to catch her. The bitch was always too ambitious for her own good."

"I killed her..." Lucifer trails off, his tone heartbreaking and overwhelming.

"But not on purpose," Lilith counters. "You were trying to protect her. She was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was an accident."

Lucifer is silent for a moment, and I start to second-guess our game. Maybe he doesn't want to punish Lilith. Maybe he just wants to toy with her for a bit, then let her go. She is his favorite after all. My guts twists, hoping that isn't the case.

Finally, Lucifer lifts his head from his hands. His cheeks are stained with dark rivers of wetness, the tears leaving black streaks on his skin as they roll down his face. His perfect lips tremble in pain as he stares aimlessly at the wall. My heart actually skips a beat in pain and pity. I know this is all an act, but my husband is doing a dead-on impression of a grieving husband.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



And the Oscar for Best Actor goes to...

Lucifer turns to look at Lilith, his expression still filled with pain. "Kerion came to see me after I broke the news."

Lilith nods. "As he should. He's a good friend of yours. Coming in your time of grieving is a good thing for him to do."

Lucifer nods and swallows. "He told me he and Michelle had sought you out. They requested your help to deal with Leyna."

Lilith's face falls, her ocean-blue eyes slowly widening with shock. True, I actually told him what had happened, but hearing him say Kerion ratted her out is far more painful and believable. A slow smile crosses my face and I watch Lilith's charade slowly implode.

Lucifer is still staring at her with pained eyes. "Why didn't you help her? She needed you. You could have saved her. You could have saved me."

Lilith's mouth drops open, and a soft, strangled sound escapes her throat. She knows her plan is falling to pieces, and I can almost see the gears in her head spinning as she tries to find a way to save her ass.

"Sire, I..." she trails off, desperately seeking an escape.

Although still sorrowful, Lucifer's expression shifts slightly to show his growing anger. "You sacrificed all of us. You put everything we have in jeopardy. And for what? Because she was human? Because you hated her?"

Lilith gives a nervous smile. "Lucifer, please. She's just a human. She wasn't that important. The world still turns and people still sin. Just because she died doesn't mean we have to stop everything and grieve. We can all still move on and heal ourselves. And each other."

Damn. This woman just doesn't give up.

The tears on my husbands face have dried and the dark marks have faded. His 'sorrow' has been replaced with anger, and he gives Lilith a wicked, malicious smile. 

"Heal ourselves," he whispers. "Oh, I know exactly how to heal myself."

He rises from the bed, standing at his full height as he glares down at Lilith. He flicks his fingers at her, beckoning her to stand. She does, swallowing loudly, as she rises to face my pissed-off husband. Lucifer smiles kindly at her, reaching out to cup her face in his hands. He forces her to make eye contact with him, his kind smile turning more malicious by the second.

"That kind of action – sacrificing the queen and our world...Oh, Lilith. It's not good. Not good at all. It's treasonous." He purrs the words at her, stroking her hair in his hands. "There must be consequences for such deplorable actions."

Lilith is shaking in her skin, horrified that her betrayal has been revealed and that she's about to pay for it. Her lip trembles, and I almost hear see her mind nearly screaming for her to apologize and beg for mercy. But she won't. Her pride will never allow it.

"I have a surprise for you," Lucifer whispers. He turns his head towards me and nods, a warm, welcoming smile on his lips.

I smile and nod, straightening my dress and making sure everything is in place. Gently, I push one of the doors open and step out into the bedroom, smiling triumphantly at Lilith. Her eyes go wide, absolute shock and horror crossing her beautiful face. She'd been banking on Leyna actually finishing me off, but here I was, her greatest enemy, standing just feet from her with a devilish smile plastered to my face.

Ah, karma. How I love you.

"No." She mouths the word, but no sound comes out. Her fear and anger have overcome her ability to speak, leaving her furiously mute.

Lucifer's fingers force her gaze back to him. His kind, warm smile still graces his lips, but there's a fire in his eyes that could melt stone.

"There must be consequences for turning against your own world and your masters," he croons, obviously taking pleasure in exacting revenge on my behalf. 

"Sire..." Lilith starts, making a last-ditch effort to save herself.

His smile never fades, and his fingers trail up her cheek, feeling her smoother, supple skin. "I think we'll start by taking back what you treasure most."

His fingers press into her cheeks, leaving small dents in her skin. Slowly, faint trails of silver-tinged strands of black threads seep out of her skin and wrap around his fingers. They caress Lucifer's skin before sinking into his hands. As they crawl into him, I watch Lilith's face slowly become gaunt and pale. Her skin begins to shrivel and crack, her lovely face turning into a mask of old age and disgust as her youth and beauty are slowly sucked away.

Take what you treasure most...

Of course! Her beauty. She's a succubus, after all. She needs her hotness to seduce and kill men. Without it, she's out of a job. But that's not all my husband planned of when he thought of this punishment. Taking away her infamous good looks serves another purpose: her ego and self-worth depend on her being beautiful enough to corrupt the Pope himself. Without her beauty, Lilith will be reduced to a life of mockery and self-loathing.

Poor thing...oh, wait...nevermind.

As much as I hate to see people suffering and in pain, Lilith deserves this. She's fucked me over and insulted me – and God knows how many other people - more times than I can count. She practically gave me the middle finger when I asked for her help to save Hell. And she tried to move in on my husband when she thought I was dead. The bitch had this coming from day one. It's hard to feel pity for a woman like that.

Lilith, for her part, just stands there and takes it. I don't know if it's because she's accepted responsibility and chose to take her punishment honorably – highly unlikely – or if she's too scared of pissing of my husband even more to try and break away. I'm almost convinced that it's option two. That's more her style.

Moments later, Lucifer pulls his hands away from Lilith and steps away from her, a dark smile caressing his lips. Lilith crumples to the floor, her face and body now shriveled like a dried apple husk. Her eyes are large and hollow, her mouth thin and pale, her cheeks full of wrinkles and scabs. Her hair has lost its luster and hangs limply around her shoulders. The skin on her hands has receded to the point of showing her nail beds, her nails themselves chipped and yellowed. Her frame is now dangerously thin, the ruby gown pooling around her and hanging off her body. Her breasts are heavily veined and sagging. The once-smooth flesh of her arms and legs now hangs from her bony limbs in miles of folds and wrinkles.

She's hideous now – inside and out.

"There, now," Lucifer proclaims as he smiles down at her. "That's the first part."

Lilith lifts her head to stare at him, fear, horror and despair swirling in her faded-blue eyes. "Master?"

His smile never fades. "We still need to deal with your betrayal of my queen. You abandoned her – quite willingly, in fact – when she needed you most. Knowing you, Lil, you were probably begging for her death. You, from the very beginning, have never showed Michelle the respect she deserves. For that action, you will be stripped of you title as the succubus queen and will be placed into servitude for Michelle."

Lilith's eyes go wide. "Servitude!" She nearly spits the word, turning her hideous face to glare at me.

"Indeed. It's about damn time you learned your fucking place, little girl," Lucifer snaps right back.

Lilith looks at him again, confusion and panic marring her once-lovely face. "But who will be the whore queen?!"

Lucifer pauses for a moment, thinking. "Mireena. She's intelligent, strong and can handle anything the girls could throw at her." He pauses again, spearing Lilith with his glare. "She's also loyal and respects the queen. She's perfect for the job."

Lilith, her eyes nearly bursting out of her head, opens her mouth to protest. She stops, though, and pulls back, hanging her head and glaring at the floor. She knows that arguing with Lucifer any more will just get her into more trouble. She's already been sentenced to serve me, so her head must be ready to explode. Quietly, though very begrudgingly, she nods and accepts Lucifer's new plans for her.

Smiling, Lucifer turns and strides towards me. I smile gently at him, happy he's put Lilith in her place but still pained to see anyone put in that position. Lucifer stops just inches away from me, staring down at me with a seductive smile on his lips. The chill of his skin makes me shiver and I reach up to loop my arms around his neck. He reciprocates by wrapping his hands around my waist and pressing his lips to mine. We kiss slowly but passionately, gently nibbling each other's mouths and tongues.

"Tarioc," he whispers against my lips.

"Sire?" 

I peer over Lucifer's shoulder to see Tarioc standing in the middle of the room, top hat perfectly balanced on his head and a warm smile on his face. How did her get here so fast? More importantly, how did her hear my husband whispering his name?

"Escort Lilith to the Mitroria and have her changed into her servant's clothes," Lucifer commands between kisses. "See to it that she's properly dressed and well informed of her new duties."

Tarioc smiles and bows. "Sire. My lady." He spins and walks over to Lilith, placing a hand on her shoulder and squeezing it painfully. "Let's go, Lili. Time for your first day at work."

Lilith doesn't move, though her eyes slide to me to give me one last withering glare. I stare back as Lucifer trails his lips down my neck, watching as the pool of shadow opens up around Tarioc and spreads to encompass Lilith's dress. The two of them slowly sink into the floor, finally disappearing with one last war smile from the coachman himself.

"Feel better?" Lucifer straightens and grins down at me.

"Much," I answer honestly.

"Good." He pauses for a moment, his smile fading into a look of curious concern. "You trust me?"

His question takes me aback. After all the shit we've been through, after all the hurdles we've cleared, he asks if I trust him? Of course I do. He's funny and gentle and loving and more than willing to protect me. Besides the fact that he's Lucifer, why wouldn't I trust him?

I nod. "Yes."

His smile returns "Good."

He pulls away and takes my hand in his, gently tugging me towards the door. I follow quietly, wondering what his sudden insecurity was all about and what he might have planned for me.

"Come with me," he whispers. "I have someone I want you to meet."

My gut lurches forward. "Who?"

His grin widens an inch. "You'll see."

He pulls me along, pausing only briefly to open the door to our room before resuming his quick pace. The door slams behind us as we make our way down the now-crowded hall. In the seconds before they see us, I catch hints of conversations passing between the demons.

"...yes, well she always was a brat. About time Lucifer..."

"...Leyna? No! To the queen?"

"I told you that bastard angel was trouble. Always trying to play with the master's toys...."

News of Michael's arrival – along with Leyna punishment– has already made their way to the populous. It's only been a few minutes! God damn, news travels fast here. Still, there's no conversation about Lilith, so it can't travel that fast.

A few demons look up and notice us, snapping to attention and nudging their friends to do the same. The hall, once filled with the sounds of gossip and laughter, is now deathly quiet as each demon bows to us. The silence is eerie, and I shiver slightly from being watched by so many eyes.

"Do they have to be silent?" I ask quietly.

"No. they simply do it out of respect and fear." Lucifer looks over his shoulder at me. "Why?"

I meet his gaze. "It's unnerving."

He never stops walking, but his mind seems to pause for a moment. His eyes slide back and forth between the rows of demons surrounding us. He lifts his head, eyes facing forward, and straightens his wings.

"As you were," he announces to the crowd.

There's a deafening silence in the hallway, followed by a burst of noise. The demons resume their chatter once we've passed by them. They're all clearly relieved that they can talk freely again, as am I. The noise stops that horrifying silence from taking over.

We make our way down the hall, moving faster than usual. I manage to peek up at my husband and see a slight sly grin on his face. He's excited about something, though I can't imagine what. I run through the rolodex of demons in my head and can't come up with any powerful enough that he'd want me to meet. Mentally, I shrug and follow him closely, anxious to meet this mystery person he's so eager to drag me to.

Near the end of the hallway, Lucifer takes a sharp left and pulls me down a pitch-black corridor. There's no candles, no sconces – nothing to light our way. But Lucifer seems to know exactly where he's going. He darts left and right, leading me through a black maze that I could never escape by myself. I grip his hand tighter, terrified of losing my grip and getting separated in this dark labyrinth. 

"Lucifer," I gasp, frightened by the lack of light and sound.

"We're almost there," he whispers. I can hear the smile in his voice.

We make a final turn and pass through an enormous archway, spilling into the deepest, darkest part of Hell. We stand on a giant rock outcropping jutting out into the middle of the Fire Pits. The souls of countless sinners swirling around us at the flow along the flaming river Styx, screaming for a salvation that will never come. I stare down at them, pitying their fate but reminding myself that being here is their fault. There's nothing I can do to help them.

At the very edge of the ledge is a throne, made of twisted metal much like my own but far more sinister. The spikes are longer and sharper, the jewels encrusting the surface only black and red, the metal rusted and jagged-looking. Resting on one gilded armrest of the chair is a heavily muscled arm. The skin is the color of a starless sky and covered with thick veins that bulge and pulse. Long, talon-like claws stretch out from long fingers. They tap rhythmically on the metal chair, waiting for something.

Holy shit! Who the hell is this?

"My brother," Lucifer calls out as he takes a step forward.

Brother?

The talons freeze, the muscles in the arms tensing in anticipation.

"There is someone I want you to meet." Lucifer's smile has erupted into a wide, enthusiastic grin.

"Is that so?" A deep, booming voice rumbles toward us, full of malice and intrigue. "Who is it?"

"Our queen, brother." Lucifer responds happily.

The voice lets out a deep, excited sigh. The arm shifts as the body attached to it rises from the chair. The chair itself is too tall for us to see the owner of the voice, so I wait anxiously for our guest to show his face.

Truthfully, I'm not sure I want to meet this 'brother' of my husband. The voice alone has me scared to death, so I can only imagine what his actual form looks like. I take a tentative step behind my husband, using his immortal angelic body as a shield for my fragile human one. Quick, sharp steps echo across the rock, alerting us of our guest's appearance. He steps around the chair and turns to face us, a wicked smile crossing his lips.

I nearly faint. This 'brother' of my husband is the actual physical embodiment of evil himself. Black-skinned, flame-eyed and all-around vicious-looking. His teeth are filed to razor points, making his smile a shark's grin. I'll admit he has a darkly handsome face, but it's much more sinister and malicious than my husband's. The flesh of his well-muscled body is covered in thick scars and striking designs of glowing gold. He wears a pair of plain black jeans and nothing else. His feet are covered in a sticky black substance that sizzles on the rock. The bright crimson of his eyes are offset by the darkness of his pupils, elongated and turned sideways like a goat's

Well, I'm dead.

Our dark guest strides toward us, the smile on his face widening. "Ah, so this is our Michelle," his voice, deep and resonating, shakes me to the core. "Prettier than I thought she'd be."

"You knew how she looked!" Lucifer snaps playfully.

"Have a little patience with me. I'd forgotten how blessed she was," he snarls, his eyes sliding down to my very exposed chest.

I take another step back, horrified that this is who Lucifer was so excited for me to meet. I don't like him staring at me. He's horrifying, certainly not the beautiful husband I'd come to love and cherish.

"Michelle." Lucifer notices my apprehension and reaches behind his back to grab my wrist. He pulls me around to stand in front of him, spinning me so that I'm facing his darker friend. His hands grip my shoulders and his lips brush against my ear. "Meet my other half."

I pause, becoming painfully confused. "Other...half?"

He nods. "I'm a man created of many ideas. My father made me an almost identical copy of himself, but with free will and a mind of my own. I possess the qualities of both a kind, intelligent angel - " 

" - And a sadistic, playful demon," the other half finishes for him, giving me a wicked grin.

"A few centuries after dad kicked me out, the opposing sides of my personality split into two separate beings that shared one mind. The two of us-" he motions to himself and his darker half, "-are the physical incarnations of those sides. I'm the lighter angelic side; he's my darker, more malicious side."

The other half smiles proudly. "Think of me as all your husband's evil thoughts and pent-up rage given form."

I stare blankly at the darker half, still confused. So, technically I have one husband, but with two bodies? My mind stops turning for a moment, overheated from the amount of information passing through. Slowly, I manage to piece the puzzle together and my brain resumes its original movements.

"Michelle?" Lucifer croons in my ear.

"Okayyy..." I manage to breath again and respond too him. "So...what do I call him?"

Lucifer pauses for a moment. "That's a good question."

His darker half shrugs. "Just let her use it."

Lucifer snaps his head up to loom at him, curiosity in his eyes. "You're sure?"

"I don't really give a shit. With a rack like that, she can call me whatever she wants." He grins at me again.

I shoot Lucifer a confused look. "Call him what?"

"Since the two of us are opposite sides of one person, we can't both be 'Lucifer'. He's the darker half, so you might as well call him Satan." He shrugs slightly. "Normally, he hates that name – leaves a bad taste in his mouth. But apparently you've won him over."

Sadly, it fits him well...

"Oh." I turn to face Lucifer's darker half again. "Alright then...Satan. It's a pleasure to finally meet you." I try to be cordial despite his obvious harshness, hoping I can start off on his good side.

Satan smirks at me. "Sweet. Maybe a bit too much. But very well." 

He strides over to me, stopping just inches from my body. He takes my hand in his, raising it to his lips. Contrary to Lucifer's icy touch, Satan's flesh is red hot, almost uncomfortably warm. They really are opposites.

Satan presses his lips to the back of my hand, his crimson eyes never leaving mine. "It is a joy to make your acquaintance as well, my queen." 

Well, gotta give him points for trying.

I give the warmest smile I can muster and curtsey slightly. His smirk widens an inch and he releases my hand. He steps away just as Lucifer pulls me back into his embrace. He holds me tight, standing completely still. I look up to see him staring off into space, a look of pure concentration on his beautiful face.

"Lucifer?" I ask quietly, hoping to drag him out of his trance.

He remains silent for a moment, then inhales sharply. "I think it would be good for the two of you to become better acquainted."




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



Satan and I share a confused look, then turn back to Lucifer. Amazingly, he's managed to confound both his queen and the person he shares his mind with. I sigh to myself. Only my husband could do that.

"Meaning what?" Satan asks, as curious as I am to know my husband's thoughts.

Lucifer snaps out of his trance and locks eyes with his darker half. "You busy the rest of the night?"

Satan pauses for an instant. "I have a meeting with Beelzebub in an hour, but nothing else after that." My husband smiles softly. "Good. Come by the room when you're done."

A fresh look of confusion settles on Satan's face. "What for?"

Lucifer's smile widens, and he stares at his 'brother' intently. The bright gold of his eyes darkens to a deep burgundy and his pupils disappear completely. Concerned, I swing my head around to look at Satan. His eyes are the same dark red color and are also missing their pupils. I stare at them in panicked wonder.

What the hell?

...the opposite sides of my personality split into two separate beings that shared one mind...

Oh.

The answer finally clicks into place in my head. They must be sharing a thought. That's why their eyes are the same. I nearly smack myself for being so foolish. They share the same mind, but they must have the ability to pick and choose what thoughts the want to keep hidden. This clearly isn't one of those thoughts. Obviously, this is an image Lucifer wants to communicate.

A few seconds later, I watch their eyes shift back their normal amber gold and crimson red. Apparently, they've finished sharing thoughts and have retreated back to their own minds. I'm slightly relieved. Seeing my husband go mentally blank like that makes me nervous, like I've lost him for a moment in time. I only hope he doesn't do it too often.

Content, I turn to see Satan staring at his twin, a wicked smile crossing his face. It's menacing and hungry and excited all at once. And it's terrifying me.

"Oh, I like that." His smile widens another inch, turning hungrier by the second.

Lucifer smiles back, his grin decidedly less malicious. "Glad you enjoyed it."

Still grinning, Satan shifts his famished gaze to me. "I may have to reschedule Beelzebub if that's what you're planning."

Lucifer shakes his head. "Keep your appointment. Knowing Beelz, this is something that can't be missed. Join us after your meeting. We'll be waiting for you."

A look of disappointment crosses Satan's face, but he recovers and nods quickly. He turns and makes his way back to his menacing throne. Lucifer loops his arm around my shoulder and leads me back towards the entrance to the main hall.

"Don't start without me!" Satan calls after us.

Lucifer looks over his shoulder. "Wouldn't dream of it."

On an instinct, I turn my head to see what's going on. Satan is standing beside his massive chair, looking back at us. His eyes flick down, then back up, giving me a quick once-over. He purses his lips for a moment, then turns and steps around to the front of his chair and settles into the hard surface.

"Undress her," he calls out. "I want to get a good look at her."

"Will do." 

Lucifer picks up his pace and we exit into the black maze we'd come through before. He takes his time going through the tunnels now, but he's just as assured of where's he's going. I cling to his arm, still terrified of losing him and getting lost in here.

"So...if you two are so closely connected, why do you live so far apart?" I can't help my question. I'm seriously curious about this whole brothers-but-the-same-person thing.

"We have different talents that work in different areas," he answers. "I'm a bit more diplomatic, he's more authoritative. Think of our world as one giant prison. I'm the guard you meet when you first come here and tells you how everything works. He's the warden that makes sure the punishments are carried out."

"Oh...Okay, that makes things a bit easier." He's got a point, though. Those two particular occupations fit their personalities perfectly.

I hear his small laugh. "I know. He's a bit more brash than I am, but I promise you he's just as loyal. You're his queen as much as you are mine, so there's nothing he won't do for you. He's just darker and a bit quieter than me. You'll get used to him."

God, I hope so. I'd hate for the two of us to have any major issues.

"How long have you two been split?" I ask cautiously.

He thinks for a moment, calculating the number of light-years that have passed. "A few millennia, at least. I can't remember exactly how long. Perhaps once man became 'man' and started to screw themselves over."

"Oh..." I trail off, not sure how to respond.

We burst into the light-filled main hall, once again stuffed full of demons and succubae. I'm relieved to be out of that maze, and I'm honestly looking forward to hearing the endless chatter of the demons that surround us. It's almost a blessing compared to the deathly silence of that cavern.

"Come," Lucifer pulls me down the hall. "I promised him we'd wait in our room."

I'm gently dragged through a parting sea of demons, each bowing to us as we pass. They immediately resume their conversations once we're gone. Lucifer pulls my hand harder, anxious to speed me up so we can get back to our room.

"What exactly did you tell him?" I ask, curious to know the thought they shared.

My husband grins over his shoulder at me. "Something he'll love. I'll explain when we're back."

"Hey! But I-" 

I'm cut off as Lucifer yanks on my arm, flying down the hallway with me trying desperately to keep up. I nearly lose my footing a few times, but I manage to regain my step before I end up being dragged across the floor behind him. I can't see anything out of place, but Lucifer is moving so fast I could swear there's a trail of fire behind us.

We reach the door to our room in record time. Lucifer pauses just long enough to haul the door open before dragging me into our bedroom and slamming the door behind him. I stumble slightly, trying to regain my balance after having to run so quickly. My husband's cold hands wrap themselves over my shoulders, holding me steady as I clear my head.

"You alright?" His breath cascades down my back, making me shiver.

I nod. "Fine. I wish you wouldn't rush like that. It makes me dizzy."

"Ah, I'm sorry." He trails kisses along the back of my neck. "I'm just excited."

"About what? You promised you'd tell me what the two of you were thinking."

He sighs. "I thought it would be a good idea for him to explore you a bit."

I spin on my feet, staring up at him with a mix of shock and confusion. "Explore me how? What did you say?"

There's a sly smile caressing his lips. "A threesome would be nice, no?"

I'm stunned into silence. A threesome? With that thing? Even is Satan is technically his other half, I can't quite fathom sleeping with him. He's not my devilishly playful debonair husband, so any images of coupling with him make my stomach turn. I shiver inside myself at the thought of those clawed hands touching me. For Lucifer to suggest such a thing...if I had the guts to do it, I'd slap him.

His smile fades instantly. "You don't like my idea?"

I shake my head. "No."

His shoulders slump, and he looks almost hurt. "Why not?"

Really? You have to ask?

"I just..." I pause, trying to formulate my thoughts. "He's so different from you. And we've just met. I'm not sure I'd be comfortable doing something so intimate with him this soon."

It's the most conservative I can keep it. As much as I'd like to scream that he's disgusting and scary and downright weird, I remind myself that dark creature is my husband's opposite half. Of course he knows how his other half looks, so yelling insults will only injure him. That, and I have to stay in queen mode. Losing my temper here and now will just make it worse.

Lucifer sighs and looks away for an instant. "You don't like him, do you?"

I shake my head again. "No. Not at all. I'm frightened of him. I can't tell if he'll be as playful and thoughtful as you are, or if he's just going to throw me onto the bed and do what he wants. I don't know if he'll accidentally hurt me. I've barely met him. I don't trust that side of you yet."

I'm sorry, but I had to say it.

I know what I've said probably hurts, but it's better than lying to him about it. At least now he knows my concerns. I won't have to dance around his questions or try and switch to another subject.

He sighs again and walks toward the bed, sitting down on the thick blankets and staring at the floor. "I didn't know you were that uncertain of me."

I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY! I'M REALLY SORRY! 

My gut twists itself into a pretzel. Great, now I've wounded him. And just when the dust had settled and things were staring to get better. I chew my lip and shift on my feet, unsure of how I can fix this. A blowjob, while fabulous, wouldn't help anything. This is something that will have to be discussed.

"I didn't mean to hurt your feelings about this..." It's the most honest start I can make right now.

He's silent for a moment, then looks up at me with a soft smile. "I understand. He's a part of who I am on so many levels, but he's not me. You have every right to be concerned about his appearance or his behavior. He's the one giving me a bad reputation, so year concerns are completely reasonable."

I take a cautious step forward. "Lucifer..."

He shakes his head. "I told you, I understand. I know him. He won't be gentle or kind with you. You're as much his queen as you are mine, but he'll use and abuse you for as long as he can. I just thought it would be a good idea for you to get to know each other just once so you'd know who you were really dealing with."

My conscience and my heart are screaming at me to fall to my knees and apologize. Looking at him right now makes my soul crack a bit. This was incredibly important to him, and I've shot down any semblance of joy or hopefulness he has left. I scowl to myself. The devil isn't the only one who can wound people.

Nice work. Would you like to tell him he's an idiot and worthless, too?

I sigh to myself and pick at my fingernails. I want to fix this, to make him smile again and know he's happy. But my fear and uncertainty are holding me back. Suddenly, my mind starts to race through all of the shitty things – Leyna, my mother selling me, Lilith – that I've survived here. I was afraid of everything, but I managed to pick myself up and kick some ass. My fear can get the better of me sometimes, but I'm not one to back down from something just because I'm afraid. Eventually, I'll psych myself up and charge at it with everything I've got.

Like now?

I take a long breath and walk over to him. Silently, I kneel down beside him on the floor, reaching out to hold his hands in mine. Lucifer swings his head around to stare down at me, a puzzled look on his beautiful face.

I inhale quickly. "I know this meant a lot to you, so I'm sorry if I did hurt you."

His smile returns for a moment. "Michelle, its fine. I said-"

"I'm willing to give him a shot," I cut him off before he can stop my change of heart.

He stars at me, shocked. "You are."

I nod shakily. "I'm willing to give him a chance because it means so much to you. But I'm still scared of who he is and what he could do. I need you to promise me that you'll keep him in check once we start."

It's no longer a smile that graces his face, but a grin. "He won't get too pushy, I promise. I'll keep him on a tight leash."

I breathe a small sigh of relief. I've promised to give the unloved half of my husband a chance, mended his broken pride and managed to salvage his award-winning smile. Not a bad list for five minutes.

"So how long until we start?" I ask quietly.

Lucifer shrugs. "Not until his meeting with Beelzebub is finished. That could take hours."

Okay, so I have time to breath and prep for this.

As relieved as I am that this won't start immediately, we still need something to do. Sex – at least until Satan arrives – is out of the question, and I'm hardly the type of person to sit around and stare at the wall for hours. I shift slightly, trying to get comfortable, the action causing the fabric of my dress to rub against my nipples.

Wait...

Of course! How could I have forgotten? In an unparalleled bitchy move, Leyna removed my piercings while she still had control of my body. I have no idea where she could have hid them, and I'm desperate to get them back. They are mine, after all. That's what we could do!

I stand quickly, excited to possibly find my mementos of bonding with my husband. I pull on Lucifer's hand, trying to urge him up off the bed. I'm not a hellion, so I can't imagine where Leyna could have tossed my rings. I'm going to need his help for this.

"Come on. I need your help." I pull his hand again.

He looks up at me, confused. "With what?"

I scowl slightly. "Leyna removed my piercings when she still had my body. We need to find them."

His eyes widen in recognition, and he rockets up from the bed. There's a look of excited thoughtfulness on his face, as if he's thrilled about finding my jewels but can't think of where to start.

I let go of his hand and spin around, placing my hands on my hips as I survey the room. "Okay, how do we do this? Lucifer pauses for a moment. "Leyna hated those piercings because they reminded her of you and your position. She wouldn't want us to find them, so she would have hid them somewhere we would never look."

I chew my lip silently. "So...maybe we start looking under things? Maybe she didn't really care about me not finding them as much as she cared about me never getting them back. If I can't reach them, I can't have them."

"It's worth a try," Lucifer sighs. "I'll take the bed and the other heavier pieces."

I nod. "I'll start with the dresser."

We separate and head towards our respective hunting grounds. I start by flinging open the doors of the armoire and rummaging through the clothing. I pull out each piece, shaking then folding it and setting it aside so I know I've checked everything and don't lose my place. Behind me, Lucifer grunts as he shifts the bed to allow him better access. 

An hour passes before I'm finished looking through the clothing. I've checked every single piece, even the sky-high stilettos that are shoved into my wardrobe, and I haven't found anything. I sigh and put everything back, double checking them one last time just in case I may have missed something.

"Anything?" I call out as I hang an expertly embroidered corset.

"Nope," Lucifer growls, resetting the bed.

I actually growl myself. I'm beyond annoyed that Leyna took out the few items that I can really consider mine, and now she's hidden them just to fuck with me. Damn that woman.

I spin around and walk towards the bathroom doors, pushing them open and making a b-line for the tub. I take a quick glance inside the exquisite marble creation, disheartened hen I see that there's nothing but warm, clear water. I drop to my hands and knees and peer into the small space under the tub. Still nothing. I sigh and stand up again, my eyes scanning the entire bathroom. Besides the tub, there's only a beautifully carved sink and a solid porcelain toilet here. So unless Leyna flushed my rings, there's nowhere to hide them.

"Could she have dropped them down the sink?" I ask, a bubble of anxiety starting to form in my gut.

"No," Lucifer yells back. "If anything valuable or unusual gets dropped into the pipes, the demons in the Gluttony department would alert us immediately. It's been three days, so they must still be here."

Phew. Crisis averted.

I spin again, knowing that there's nowhere left to look here. I walk back out into the bedroom, my mind turning in ten directions, trying to find an answer. I see Lucifer standing at the edge of our bed, scowling at the floor in frustration. He's as annoyed as I am, but neither of us can think of any other place Leyna could have hidden my piercings. I copy him, glaring at the floor as I rack my brain for an answer.

Wait...the floor!

My head snaps up as an idea rushes into my mind. I spin and stare at my husband, hoping that my hunch is right. "Lucifer, are there any false panels in the floor here?"

He looks up at me, thinking for a moment before answering me. "A few. One in each corner and one under the bed."

"Dou you think she could have hidden them under one of those?" I ask excitedly.

His eyes start to light up. "It's possible. She's a demon after all, so lifting one of the stone wouldn't be difficult for her."

Hopeful, I rush over towards him as he shifts the bed again. Pulling it away, he drops to his knees and digs his fingers into the thick grout lines between the block of marble. He grunts softly as he hauls the massive stone up and over. I stare silently at him, marveling at his strength and the way his muscles flex as he moves the rock.

No! Focus!

Lucifer heaves the rock to one side, and I kneel down beside the large hole. Moving quickly so my fear of the dark doesn't get to me first, I reach my hand down into the black abyss, feeling around the smooth rock for any sign of gold or gems. I can't find anything, but I feel around one last time before pulling my hand out, disappointed.

Lucifer's cool hand strokes my shoulder blades. "We have four more to check. They're around here somewhere."

I hope so...

Lucifer replaces the stone block in the floor, then stands up and offers his hand to me. I take it gratefully, letting him pull me up so we can continue on our quest. We move to the nearest corner and repeat the process again. Still, I find nothing. Lucifer replaces that stone and rubs my back, a look of apologetic ruefulness on his face. I give the best smile I can muster, happy to know he's trying to comfort me in this. Honestly though, I don't think I'll be content until we find my jewels.

We move on to the next corner. Lucifer lifts the rock out of the way again and I feel around in the darkness. Again, there's nothing inside, and I feel my confidence slowly slipping with each failed venture. I'm beginning to doubt my idea of Leyna hiding my piercings at all. Maybe she's jut destroyed them.

A loud knock at the door pulls me out of my pity party. Lucifer looks up just as he drops the stone into place, a soft smile on his lips. His gaze shifts to me, his eyes warm and hopeful.

"We have company."

Uh oh.

"Come in," Lucifer calls out as he helps me to my feet.

The door swings open and Satan strides in, spinning around and slamming it behind him. He pounds the door once, setting the locks into place before turning to face us. His crimson eyes narrowing confusion as he watches Lucifer and I make our way to the next corner.

"What's going on?" he ask, curious about or task.

"Leyna hid Michelle's piercings when they were switched. We're trying to find them." Lucifer lifts the next block as he speaks.

Satan nods. "Ah, yes. The bitch that started all the trouble. Her little stunt certainly got Beelzebub in a pissy mood."

"Really?" Lucifer asks as he shoves the block aside. "I didn't think the old man would get so emotional about it."

Satan shrugs and makes his way toward us. "Neither did I. Although, I'm not that surprised. The old codger despised that bitch, and he was practically singing praises of our queen."

I reach in and search the hole as Lucifer turns to talk to his other half.

"I suppose that's a good thing." His hand strokes my back. "Better you have him as a fan than a hater." 

I can't help my laugh. He's got a point. I may be queen now, but it's a good idea for me to keep Lucifer's head commanders on my side. Many kings have fallen because the people under them are upset. 




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



I sigh and pull my arm out of the hole. Still nothing! I sit back and sulk, glaring at the floor. Where the fuck could Leyna have hid those damn things? We only have one last false panel to check. If my piercings aren't there, then I'm officially out of ideas.

Lucifer hauls the block back into place and helps me up. "Damn it," he hisses.

I sigh hopefully. "One more."

He nods and heads toward the last corner. I follow sheepishly behind him, hoping with all my heart that my piercings are hidden under that block. If they aren't, I'll be heartbroken for having lost them and I'll have to go through that torture again.

Dear God, please be there.

I kneel on the cold stone floor and watch as my husband lifts the block out of position. My heart pounding, I reach into the abyss and feel around the smooth rock of the hole. I gasp quietly and pull my hand back, a few tears starting to tell in my eyes.

Strike five. We're out of options.

I sit back on the floor, my tears escaping from behind my eyelids and dripping onto the floor. Lucifer sighs and replaces the block, a look of absolute heartbreak on his face. The last symbols of our devotion to each other are gone, hidden away in some unknown spot by an insane succubus with a grudge.

My tears fall freely now, and the tiles of the floor do their best to absorb them. Lucifer scoots over to me, looping an arm around my shoulders so he can pull me close. I lean into him, pressing my cheek against his chest as his cool hand strokes my hair.

"It's okay," he whispers. "They're just rings. Nothing really important or damaging."

I nod. "I know. But still..."

"Yes," he sighs. "I know."

"I just...I just can't think of where else to look." I can barely force the words out through my tears.

Lucifer's hand never stops stroking my hair. "Don't worry about it. We can replace them."

As apprehensive as I am to do that again, he's right. No one – besides Leyna – was hurt or injured because I lost my piercings, and we can always pick new ones to put in if we want. It sucks that they're gone since Lucifer took so much care in putting them in, but yes, they're just piercings.

I wipe away a few of my tears and calm my breathing again. "Yeah, it's just I can't think of - AH!"

I cry out and jump back an inch. Satan has magically teleported himself in front of me, kneeling only inches from my body. He leans in, his face so close to mine I can feel his hot breath on my skin. A sly smile graces his lips, and his goat's eyes are glinting with mischief. 

I swallow and steady myself against Lucifer. "Hi."

His smile widens an inch and he reaches out, holding his closed fist in front of me. His clawed fingers unfurl to reveal three shining rings of gold and small black jewels resting in his palm.

My piercings!

I'm stunned into silence. The fact that he's so close, holding my prized possessions just inches away from me, seems unreal. I almost think it's an illusion, but as I watch the gems sparkle in the light, I realize it's not. He's really holding my jewels!

Lucifer lets out a small cry of joy. "Where did you steal those from?"

Satan gives a soft laugh. "I managed to swipe them from Leyna's hiding place before any real harm could be done. She knew no one would check her body, so... "

At this point, I'm so overjoyed to have my piercings back that I lose control. I launch myself from the floor, plowing into Satan and knocking him backwards onto the tile. In a rare moment of absolute joy, I kiss the darker half of my husband passionately, forgetting that I'm terrified of him long enough to express my gratitude. He tastes like exotic spices and leather - a nice combination, but not one I could get addicted to.

I pull back after a few seconds, smiling proudly down at him. Satan grins up at me, reveling in his conquest on his twin's sheepish queen.

"That was for returning what was mine," I croon at him.

His grin widens, and according to the rock-hard lump pressing against my thigh, he's obviously imagining getting a good reward for being a good samaritan. Honestly, I think he does deserve a reward. Silently, I pull my hand back, hold my fingers steady, and swing as hard as I can. My smack echoes off the tile walls. Satan lies beneath me, his eyes wide and a glaring red mark slowly appearing on his face. Lucifer rests beside me, staring at me with a wild, frightened look in his eyes.

I'm still grinning as I stand up, stepping away from Satan as I brush off my dress. "That was for taking so damn long." 

I reach down and scoop my piercings from his hands, then straighten and make my way over to the bed. I pull down the bodice of my dress and begin to replace the rings back where they belong. It stings a little at first, but the knowledge that I have my prized possessions back makes the pain bearable. Behind me, I can hear Lucifer and Satan discussing my oh-so-brazen stunt.

"What the fuck-"

"She has a point."

"She didn't have to slap me for it!"

"Well..."

I smile slyly and shake my head. For two beings who are basically the separate personality traits of one person, they act more like distant cousins than twins. It's almost like listening to Michael and Lucifer duke it out. Really, it's hard to believe they're the same guy.

I finally slip the last piercing into place and peer down at my newly-adorned body. The gold shines in the light, and the black gems sparkle and wink at me. I smile back. It's nice to have them in again. I feel whole now.

Satisfied, I spin around to see both men on their feet. Lucifer is giving me a sly, you've-put-him-in-his-place-well-done smile, while Satan is refusing to look at me. I shake my head and laugh softly. They're almost like children sometimes.

I mentally shake myself and swallow loudly. I know what the two of them were prepping themselves for, and the day of reckoning has to come sometime. It might as well be now. Id' rather get it over with than drag it out and have it hit me when I least expect it.

Alright. Let's just do this so we can go to bed.

I take one final deep breath and walk forward. As soon as I'm just inches away from both men, I reach out, take one hand from each, then spin and start dragging them towards the bed. They stumble at first, caught off guard by my sudden pulling, but then quickly gain their footing. The walk quietly behind me, holding onto me with their icy and fiery hands.

"Michelle?" Lucifer asks curiously.

I sigh again. "Come on. We promised him a threesome."

There's silence behind me for a moment, then a rush of wind blows past me as Satan races forward and scoops me into his arms. My cheek is pressed against his scarred chest as he sprints towards the bed. Once we reach our bed, I'm unceremoniously dropped into the pile of blankets as Satan quickly strips himself of his pants. Lucifer is terrifyingly calm as he makes his way to the bed, smiling at me gently as he sits on the edge of the mattress. He leans in and kisses me on the cheek.

"I appreciate this. We both do."

"I know," I say, blushing. 

"There!" Satan tosses his pants aside, staring down at me as he rubs his hands together gleefully. "Ready?"

Not really, but I'm stuck now.

Lucifer grips my arm and stand up, pulling me with him. He spins me around and carefully starts unlacing my dress. His warm breath spills down my shoulder as he peppers soft kisses along my neck. I close my eyes and lean my head back, making a true effort to avoid looking at my husband's darker half. I'm terrified of him, so I don't want to see his body. I really don't want to.

"Sex or piercing first?" 

I swallow and try to calm my racing heart. "Piercing. Let's do it now and get it over with."

He laughs against my ear. "That's my brave girl."

My dress slips off my shoulders and pools at the ground. I blush furiously, aware that this is the first time my husband's darker half has seen me naked. As close as he is the Lucifer, I still feel slightly uncomfortable around him.

"Brother," Lucifer calls to his other half. "The box of rings."

"Yes, sir," Satan sings and races off towards the wardrobe to retrieve the box.

"Come on," my husband whispers to me. "This will only take a minute."

I nod, though I'm still shaking from nervousness. Lucifer crawls onto the bed and beckons me forward. When I reach the edge of the mattress, he spins me around and pulls me onto the bed, holding me against his chest. His hands stroke and massage my shoulders, trying to calm me down. Fat chance of that. After experiencing the pain of my last piercings - and knowing just how sensitive the next target area is - I'm have second, third and fourth thoughts about doing this. 

I'm too late to back out now, though. Satan has found the box of piercings and is making his way back to us, a giant foolish grin on his face. I take one last hesitant breath and sigh. I'm stuck with doing this whether I like it or not. But as scared as I am, hopefully this will prove that I'm strong enough to take on any challenge Hell has to throw at me. If I can handle Lucifer's darker half, I can do anything. 

Finally, Satan reaches the edge of the bed and kneels down on the floor. He places the box of piercings beside him and looks up at me, still giving me that evil grin. Lucifer's cold hands slip between my tightly closed legs and gently force them apart. I whimper softly, frightened of how much pain might be coming, but acquiesce anyway. I've come too far to put up a fight now.

"Fuck," Satan whispers as he gets an eyeful of my body. 

"I know," Lucifer smiles at him. "Beautiful in every way."

His other half nods, taking one last long look at me before meeting my gaze. "Which one should we use?"

I shrug and close my eyes. "I don't care."

"Nothing outrageous," Lucifer chimes in. "It's her first one there. Be gentle."

Satan nods and opens the box of metal rings. He digs through it for a few moments, trying to find something that will adorn me well without being too painful. Finally, he seems satisfied with something and closes the box.

"This shouldn't do too much damage."

I open my eyes and see him holding up his selection between his fingers. It's a thin curved barbell piercing with small blue glass beads at the end. I let out a relieved sigh. He's made a good choice with this one. It'll be enough to enhance any stimulation, but it's small enough that I won't have any permanent disfiguration. 

I take a sharp breath and nod. I decide that this is probably the best choice for him to have picked. If I deny him, he might choose something heavier and less discreet.

Satan grins and shoves the box aside. Lucifer's hands holds my legs down, not forcefully or painfully but enough to make sure I don't escape. His darker half reaches down and picks up that damned silver needle, holding it close enough to my skin I can almost feel the heat radiating off it. I whimper again and jump back instinctively.

Lucifer rubs my shoulders again, kissing my neck to calm me down. "It's alright. You'll be fine. It will only last a second." 

I nod and try to scoot back onto the bed. My body is still responding automatically, so I'm not in complete control. But I do my best to quell my nerves. I manage to stop my shaking and watch Satan with a semi-fascinated eye.

The demonic half of my husband smiles up at me, then refocuses on my body so he can work. He brings the needle close to my pussy, the heat from the metal warming my skin. I watch as he takes careful aim, tying to make sure he doesn't scar the most precious part of my anatomy. He holds the uncovered tip of the piercing next to my clit, waiting for the moment when he can slip it into place.

"Make sure you give her some relief after this," Lucifer chides his twin self. "She's been through enough shit today and I've promised her a good introduction into cunnilingus."

"Have you now?" Satan's smile widens into a grin. "Perfect." 

He takes one final breath to focus on his task, then flicks his crimson eyes up to meet mine. They're filled with hunger and elation and a tiny bit of malice. But mostly, they're filled with excitement.

"Deep breath, my queen."

He gives me half a second to inhale before ramming the needle into my skin. I scream and jerk my body back. Tears roll down my cheeks as my body burns in the worst way imaginable. This isn't the soft, sharp pain of my nipples or belly. He's hit the most nerve-packed part of my body and violated it mercilessly. Now it's crying out in pain and making me body betray my commands. Lucifer holds me tight, trying to calm me down with soothing words as my body aches uncontrollably.

Satan moves quickly, removing the needle and inserting the piercing in one fluid motion. The cool metal takes some of the edge off, but it's nowhere near enough to bring me relief. I'm still crying as Satan pulls away, leaving my husband to deal with the aftermath. He picks up the box of metal and leaves to return it to the wardrobe.

I slump into the bed, my tears falling onto the sheets. I'm incredibly relieved it's finished, but I can't quite get over the pain. It stings and burns and aches all at once. I really just want to curl into bed and cry myself to sleep, but I know there's far more to come than this. My usual defense mechanisms aren't an option right now.

Soft, feather-light kisses tickle my shoulders and neck. Lucifer's hands stroke my thighs, trying to soothe an ache that's beyond his control.

"You did so well," he whispers against my back.

I sniffle softly. "Ow." It's all I can manage.

His hands leave my legs as he lops his arms around my waist. "I know. I'm so proud of you. That's the last one, I promise."

He looks up as Satan returns to the bed, kneeling in front of me to inspect his work. He nudges my thighs apart so he can take a good look, making me feel like an insect under a microscope.

"No blood or any mess we should be concerned about," He says. "Not a bad job for a first-timer."

"I told you to be gentle!" Lucifer snaps at him.

Satan whips his head up to glare at his other half. "I can't help that. It's like getting punched in the balls. It's going to hurt no matter how slowly you do it."

Lucifer rolls his eyes and groans. "At least soothe her a bit."

Satan's scowl transforms back into his dark grin. "With pleasure." 

Before I have time to recover from my wounds, he moves. Within an instant, a soft, warm tongue is pressed against my sex, making me squeal and jump. It runs along my slit, causing my body to become traitorous despite my struggles. Again, Lucifer holds me tight, making sure I don't try to escape while I'm receiving my reward.

At this point, I'm not certain I want to flee. I've never been given any type of oral sex before, but I can see why so many of my girlfriends rave about it constantly. Once I've calmed down from the initial shock, that warm tongue starts to feel really good and my body responds automatically. I groan softly and inch my hips forward, trying to get a better angle. Satan chuckles quietly and obliges, pressing his tongue directly against my newly adorned clit.

The pressure makes me jump again, but this time it's out of pleasure, not shock or pain. His teeth gently pull at my new piercing and I moan. The alien pressure fades into a warm tingle that works its way up from my toes to my cheeks. It's beyond wonderful, and I wonder if I can have this exquisite torture put on my Christmas list for next year.

"Enough," Lucifer's voice breaks into my mind. "Don't give her too much. We still have our own plans."

What? So not fair!

With one last flick of his tongue, Satan pulls away and grins up at me triumphantly. I'm breathless and looking out into the world with hazy, unfocused eyes. My mind is still spinning from the events of the last few hours. First Leyna is shipped off to her death with Michael and Lilith's ass got tossed into the pits, then I meet my husband's darker half, and now I've just received my first genital piercing and oral session. What a day.

I'm shifted suddenly as Lucifer slips out from underneath me and pulls me backwards until I'm laying across the bed with my feet hanging over the edge. My head leans over the opposite side of the mattress, leaving my body open and exposed.

Lucifer slips off the bed and kneels down beside my face, pulling my hair out from under my back so it spills onto the floor. He smiles at me, stroking my neck and cheek as me moves.

"You agreed to this."

I nod and take a shaky breath. "I know."

"Any preferences?" His golden eyes shine as he asks.

I give him my confused face, not understanding his question.

An embarrassed smile comes across his features. "Oh, that's right. I didn't explain this to you. The two of us had planned for you to suck one of us off while the other takes your body."

"Oh," I whisper. 

How romantic. Will there be rose petals and candlelight, too?

"Do you care which one of us does what?"

I pause for a moment, considering my options. Personally, I consider giving any type of oral sex more intimate than regular coupling. Even though he technically is my husband, I'm not comfortable enough with Satan to share something I feel is sacred.

God, it feels weird calling him that.

"I'll take you," I tell him.

His smile could melt the poles. "You've made my day."

I smile at him as he stands up. I'm left hanging for a moment, staring at his tattered jeans. I can only hear their conversation. He turns slightly, waiting to address his other half.

"She wants you there. I get her mouth."

"Perfect!"

Lucifer steps around so the zipper of his jeans is level with my eyes. I swallow loudly, more afraid of what's going on at the other end of the bed since I can't see. My husband's cock doesn't frighten me at all. But I am worried that his darker half might not be so gentle or caring when it comes to my fragile human body.

Lucifer reaches down and unzips his jeans, freeing his engorged erection and letting it hang temptingly in front of my face. Below, I feel Satan's rough, clawed hands slip under my hips and raise my body off the bed. His own warm cock presses against my inner thigh, the tip brushing my still-sensitive clit. I flinch instinctively, my body reacting to my inability to see what's happening.

Lucifer slips his own hand under my head to support me, stroking my hair between his fingers. He smiles down at me, the excitement and elation obvious in his giant grin.

"You'll be fine. I'll make sure he doesn't go crazy."

I nod, then look at him worriedly. "You're okay with this?"

His smile falls into a look of pure confusion. "Yes. Why wouldn't I be?"

I swallow loudly. "You're not going to consider this adultery or anything, are you?"

He freezes, then bursts out laughing. "Of course not! It's not cheating when it's with your own husband, no matter which half."

I let out a relieved sigh. Thank God. I know Lucifer would never pull such a trick on me, but it's certainly not below him to do something similar to others in the waking world. He didn't get his reputation for being fair and honest.

"Just relax, will you?" he chides gently. "You're fine." 

He looks up and nods to his twin. My body shifts again, and I feel the thick head of Satan's cock press against my entrance and slowly slip inside. I whimper one last time, the inhale deeply and close my eyes, trusting my husband to keep me safe. Lucifer leans forward, pressing his own cock against my lips. I block out what's happening at the other end of my body and open my mouth willingly, letting him slip inside. I'm comfortable with this, so maybe giving a blowjob will help take the edge off.

He tastes just a delicious and indescribable as always, and being in my comfort zone helps the rest of my body relax. A few second later, Satan has sheathed himself inside me, much thicker than the body I'm used to taking. He's heavily veined and almost ribbed along his entire length. It's not a bad feeling, just odd for my slim body to accommodate such a large intruder.




The Old King and the New Bride Ch. 05



Lucifer strokes my neck and shoulders as he smiles down at me. "Just relax your body. We'll do all the work."

I try to nod, but end up just staring at him and breathing heavily. I relax my jaw and close my eyes and his fingers slip around to cup my chin. He pulls his hips back slowly, giving me a chance to get used to the feeling of not being able to move. He pauses just long enough for me to breathe before sliding back in.

"You alright?" he asks.

I take a breath and try to mumble a response. Yes, I'm fine. A little uncomfortable and uneasy, but fine. He grins down at me, stroking my hair one last time.

"Good girl. Just stay calm and try not to bite me." He nods to his other half, signaling the start of my torture.

Truthfully, it's amazing. The incredible taste of my husband – which, for some reason, turns me on every time without fail – mixed with the wonderfully rhythmic thrusting of Satan's cock makes for on hell of an experience. With every buck of his hips, my newly pierced clit gets rubbed and stroked with deadly precision, making my body spasm and jerk. Lucifer does his best to keep a slow, even pace so I can breathe freely. His balls swing freely, brushing against my nose with every push of his hips.

Hoping to ease my nerves, Lucifer's hands slide down my neck to my chest and start gently kneading my breasts. His cold hands cause my nipples to harden, which makes them rub deliciously against his palms. I moan, relaxing into the bed as he continues his wonderful teasing.

My first orgasm comes as a surprise. One rough stroke along my clit sends a bolt of lightening racing up my spine and causes fireworks to go off behind my eyes. I stiffen automatically, barely able to keep myself from clamping my teeth together. Both men pause as I climax, giving me a little time to enjoy myself. Ripples of pleasure roll through me as I lay back down, breathing heavily and my heart racing.

Lucifer laughs as he strokes my cheek. "Easy, there. We're not even half way done with you."

I force myself to swallow and relax my body again. Lucifer smiles and starts moving his hips again, again taking his time to make sure I don't choke. His twin starts moving too, resuming his delicious thrusting. My body reacts again, bucking and twitching with every wonderful motion. Lucifer's attention on my breasts resumes, making me actually start to enjoy this stupid game of theirs. 

Again, it's wonderful...at first. The rhythm and pressure are exhilarating, and I honestly start to relish this unique coupling. If we did this on a weekly basis, I don't think I'd really mind it that much.

Unfortunately, as I feared, Satan starts to lose control. His thrusts become more vicious and erratic, and the pleasure starts to morph into a dull ache. I'm still technically human despite my new immortality and position, so my body can only take so much of his demonic power. I groan softly, trying to voice my discomfort as best I can. Neither man hears it though, and the uncomfortable pressure continues.

My bad luck is bound to continue, especially with my clit being so sensitive now. Satan bucks a little too hard and fast, and I squeal again, trying to let Lucifer know I'm not happy. His darker half thrusts again, scraping his shaft roughly across my hypersensitive clit. It hurts, and I arch up off the bed as tears roll down my cheeks.

Thankfully, Lucifer notices this time and stops thrusting into my mouth. He leans forward and growls, and I hear a loud smack echo around the room. Satan stops moving as well, giving me some much-needed relief.

"I told you to be gentle!" Lucifer hisses, his voice dark and angry. "Damn it, she's still human!"

There's a vicious growl at the other end of the bed, but neither man leaves his spot. I'm relieved, though. Although a little late, Lucifer did hold up on his word about keeping his other half under control. Now, if we can just keep things at an even pace, all three of us should be alright.

A few second later, Lucifer leans back and looks down at me, a soft apologetic smile on his lips. I try to nod again, flicking my eyes down then back up at him, silently asking him to keep a close eye on his twin.

His smile lightens a bit. "Don't worry. I'll keep him under control."

I take another cleansing breath and close my eyes again, putting myself and my body's fate back in my husband's hands. There's a split-second pause – no doubt Lucifer giving his other half the evil eye – then the motions begin again. This time, Satan keeps his steady, gentle pace and Lucifer resumes his easy thrusting. I'm able to relax again, and I sink into the bed as waves of pleasure roll through me.

Once again, I'm assaulted by an unexpected orgasm. My back strains off the bed, and a fresh blast of fire rushes through my veins. Somewhere in the distance, I hear a low growl and feel Satan's clawed hands dig into my skin. His body bucks hard against mine, then he stills as he unloads his seed into my body. It's burning hot, but I take it begrudgingly, knowing that pleasing him will make Lucifer happy.

For his part, Lucifer is gentle even in the last few seconds of his assault. He moves fluidly but softly, giving me time to breathe and make myself comfortable. His fingers twist into my hair as he finds his own climax, thrusting deep into my throat as he groans and loses himself. His warm semen spills into my mouth and I drink it down as best I can. Thankfully, it's as inhumanly delicious as before, so I have no qualm about this part. 

Seconds later, he relaxes and slips free of my mouth. I swallow the last few drops of his seed and inhale deeply. All in all, that wasn't bad, but it's not something I'd ever want to do on a daily basis. If it wasn't for his twin's loss of control, I would be walking away from this much happier

Lucifer slips his hands under my shoulders and eases me up into a sitting position, letting me lean my head back against his chest as I recover. I moan softly and close my eyes, relaxing against him as the chill from his skin cools my exhausted body. I open my eyes again as see Satan leaning against one of the bed's wooden spires, breathing heavily with a giant grin on his face. His crimson eyes flick to me, narrowing in lust.

"Round two?" he asks maliciously.

Oh dear God, no!

"No," Lucifer snaps, his fingers combing my hair again. "You've had enough for today."

Satan straightens his spine and glares at his twin half. "What? So now you're rationing sex with our queen?"

"Until you learn to control yourself around her, yes," Lucifer hisses back. "When you've shown me that you can play with her without doing any harm or losing control, then I'll let you have free rides all you want. Until, then, you're done. Out."

His twin's eyes widen in outrage for an instant, then narrow again in anger. He doesn't argue, though he looks ready to launch himself at us. He inhales deeply, then glares at us one final time before turning and walking away. He storms towards the door, grabbing his pants from the floor before flinging it open.

"Don't expect any favors from me after this!" he shouts.

Lucifer continues to stroke my hair. "I never have."

Satan growls in frustration and slams the door. The force shakes the ground and makes the bed rock a bit. Once he's gone, I let out a relieved sigh. Thank God he's finally gone. Between his attitude, his viciousness and his lack of control, I'm not sure if I could stand being near him for another minute. I'd be fine if I didn't see him against for a few years.

Cool lips press against my shoulder, bringing me back into the real world. "I apologize for him. That part of me has never taken rejection well."

I shrug. "It's fine."

He laughs against my shoulder. "I'm sorry. That didn't work out as well as I had imagined it."

I give a soft laugh myself. "No, not really."

"Are you alright?" he asks, nuzzling my shoulder.

I nod. "A little stunned and sore, but I'm fine."

He sighs. "I'm going to have to do something pretty amazing to make up for this."

Moving slowly, I turn around to face him. His eyes are bright and playful, but his smile is broken and embarrassed. I reach out and cup his face in my hands, running my thumbs along his exquisite cheekbones.

"You don't owe me anything. You were just trying to experiment."

"Yes, but my experiment went horribly wrong." His eyes soften a bit. "I feel the strange need to make it up to you."

I can't help my grin. "Awww. Is the great king of demons suddenly feeling a little guilt? Could it be that he does have a heart?"

A dark smile graces his lips. "Careful."

I shake my head and lean in to kiss him. "You. Owe. Me. Nothing."

He accepts my kiss, but pulls away too soon and looks at me desperately. "Please? I love you, Michelle, but this feeling of guilt is uncomfortable. I've never liked it. Let me try to make this up to you before my black heart shrivels up out of confusion and pain."

I throw my head back and laugh. He's certainly got a way of explaining things. I collect myself and look at him again, nodding as I try to stifle my laughter. He grins, kissing me on the cheek before slipping off the bed and making his way towards the middle of the floor. I spin around and watch him carefully, crossing my legs on the mattress and leaning my elbows on my knees.

What's he up to?

He stops, pausing as if thinking of something, then turns and walks back towards me, pulling me off the bed. "We'd better get you dressed. The surprise I have for you might not enjoy seeing you naked."

What's that supposed to mean?

I nod and wait patiently as he crosses the room and picks up my dress. He carries it back and holds it out for me, letting me use him for support as I step inside. I spin and stand still as he laces me into my dress. The cool fabric rubs against my pierced nipples, making me feel more at home than I've felt in years. Once I'm tied in, Lucifer motions for me to sit on the bed. He waits until I've found a comfortable spot before turning around and walking back across the floor.

Lucifer stands in the middle of the room, his face turned upwards and his eyes closed. His hands hang at his sides, his fingers twirling in the air without reason or pattern. His lips move slowly, mouthing silent words in a language I can't begin to understand. Golden eyes flick open and stare at me, a soft, warm smile playing on his lips.

"I want to give you closure, if that's alright," he calls to me. "A little something to redeem myself by."

Closure?

I stare at him, dumbfounded. What would I need closure for? Leyna's gone, Lilith's being tortured and mom's under my command. What could I possibly need a therapy session for?

Lucifer smiles at me again, then turns his head up towards the ceiling and continues his incantations. A circle of black fire appears in front of him suddenly, enclosing a small marble block in inky flames. As Lucifer continues chanting, the flames grown, reaching up to the sky until they're nearly seven feet tall. The flames are solid and pitch black, making it impossible for me to see what's behind them. With a final line of chants, Lucifer drops his head and steps back, watching with me as the flames disappear and reveal my gift.

The circle of fire sinks into the tile floor, leaving its occupant standing in its place. A tall man, with light brown hair, hazel eyes – my eyes - and a warm smile stares back at me. His jeans and flannel shirt and ripped to shreds, and there's huge smudges of clotted blood streaked across his face. His grease-streaked hands are shoved into his pockets, and he leans on one leg like a cowboy. His cheeks dimple with his grin, and his eyes shine in the light.

My jaw hits the floor and my throat closes up. Tears well in my eyes and my heart nearly stops. I lose my ability to breath for an instant, my brain shutting down completely as shock settles in. 

It can't be...

"Dad?" I whisper.

The man's grin widens. "Hey there, 'chelly girl."

I cry out and pull back, cupping my hand over my mouth. It is my father, the man I loved and adored and who was taken away from me so suddenly and violently. Tears flow down my cheeks, painful, heartbroken tears that render all my strength useless. I sink into the bedding, crying for reasons too painful to explain or understand.

Lucifer walks quietly over to me, looping his arm around my shoulders and pulling me against his chest. His cool hands rub my skin and run through my hair, calming my heart and soothing my soul a little.

"Your mother sacrificed him to gain power. She never gave you the chance to tell him anything," he croons in my ear. "I called him down for you. I wanted to redeem myself to you and give you what your mother never could."

I manage to calm my crying enough to look up at him. His glorious smile almost burns my eyes, and this rare act of kindness tears at my heartstrings. He's too beautiful and loving to be real, yet here he is. All glory and heart and love, despite what Michael may say.

He presses his palm against my back, slowly inching me off the bed. My lip trembles as I watch him, still stunned that a creature so dark and sadistic could be this generous.

He keeps nudging me forward. "Go say goodbye."

I nod and slip of the bed, trying to keep as much decorum and poise as I can. Unfortunately, once my feet touch the floor, my queenly strength dissolves as I rush towards my father, my tears flying behind me. I crash into him, knocking him back a few steps as I wrap my arms tightly around him. I bury my face into his shirt and weep, crying out all my pain and anger and sorrow.

My father laughs and strokes my hair, kissing the top of my head as he does. "It's okay, kiddo. I'm right here. I've missed you, too."

"I'm sorry" I cry into his shoulder. "I'm sorry."

"For what? You're not the one who did this to me."

I shake my head like a small child. "I never got to say I loved you or goodbye or anything! I didn't stop mom! I didn't do anything!"

My father pulls me tight against him, stroking my hair as gently as he can. "Michelle, you were fifteen. You couldn't have done anything. Your mother may have set this up, but my death was still an accident. None of this falls on you."

Dad's reassurances can't stop my tears. Four years worth of fury, heartbreak and confusion are pouring out of me, and he's getting the full blast. Ever since my mother made that damn deal with Lucifer, I've blamed myself for never doing anything to save my father. I've wondered why she'd picked him and no one else. Why I didn't choose to go with him on that trip and die, too. Questions that were redundant and painful to ask, but spun through my head anyway. Accusations of myself that piled on unnecessary guilt for a crime I didn't commit. 

Slowly, I recover from my guilt trip and dry my tears. I pull away from my father, wiping my eyes and regaining control of my breathing. It still hurts to know I've lost him, but four years is time enough to sit down and forgive yourself. I didn't do anything to harm him, but it's still easy to carry the blame when you're a child. And at fifteen? Dear God, how was I able to stay sane? 

My father's warm calloused hands cup my face and tilt my chin up. He smiles down at me, tall and imposing as always. But as big and bulky as my father was, he was always the kindest and warmest person in the room. This was the man who helped me with my homework, went prom dress shopping with me and taught me how to pitch. It was almost like dad was more of a mother than my mom was, and I adored him for it.

"Hey," he brushes a strand of hair from my face. "You're fine, alright? You're the same smart, sweet, loving grill I raised, right?"

I nod, choking back the remainder of my tears.

He grins. "Good. Now, let me see."

He releases my face and steps back, looking me over with curious eyes. The realization of what he's actually seeing – me with a very revealing dress and sex hair – washes over me and I blush furiously. This is definitely not what every father has envisioned for his daughter when she grows up, but he no doubt knows the situation I've been pushed into won't necessarily follow the straightest path.

My father clears his throat softly and gives me a strained smile. "Well, it's not... what I was expecting."

I flush deeper and give him a shy smile. "Ditto."

Dad sighs and smiles wider. "But you look beautiful either way."

I giggle shyly. "Thanks."

Dad steps forward again, cupping my cheek in his hand and grinning sorrowfully at me. My heart sinks. I knew he couldn't stay here forever. I sigh heavily but force a smile anyway.

"I have to go now, sweetheart." he whispers. "I was wonderful to see you again."

I launch myself forward and wrap my arms around his neck. "I love you."

He hugs me back. "I love you, too, 'chell. Take care of yourself. And watch your mother."

I hold onto him for as long as I can before reluctantly letting him go. It would be selfish of me to keep him here just because I miss him, and he needs to move on as much as I do. Dad's eyes are as pained as mine, but we both recognize the need for him to go back to wherever Lucifer called him from.

My father's eyes flick up for an instant, narrowing when he spots my husband. "And you."

I turn to see Lucifer still sitting on the bed, his head snapping up to stare back at my father. His eyes are wide with surprise, obviously caught off guard by my father's stern voice. His spine straightens and his wings flutter slightly, waiting to be addressed.

"You take care of her," dad growls at him while placing his hands on my shoulders, his parental instincts going into overdrive. "I swear, if any harm comes to her, I'll teleport myself back down here and tear your eyes out with my bare hands."

Lucifer smiles warmly and nods. "Sir, she's in the best hands possible. I wouldn't dream of letting her get hurt."

Dad's mouth tightens, a warning light that he's about to say something that will put his opponent in his place. "You didn't do so well protecting her from that succubus."

Oh! Burn!

Lucifer's smile fades, and a look of shocked wariness crosses his face. My gut tightens. Dad's stepped over the invisible line and challenged Lucifer on his most infamous fault with me. First I'm elated to see my father again, now I'm scared my husband will burn him to a crisp.

Lucifer takes a deep breath, a slow, dark smile crossing his lips. "Touché. I'll watch her more closely from now on."

Dad smiles proudly and nods. I release my breath, relieved that neither man has decided to go for the jugular and start a real fight. My dad's shown his spine and my husband's proven his self-control. Reason and rationality have overcome testosterone this round.

Well played, you two. Now separate.

Satisfied that he's made his point, dad spins me around and hugs me one last time. He whispers praises of love and respect and pride into my hair. For the last time, a few stray tears roll down my cheeks. I've forgiven myself and he's gotten then chance to see the woman his daughter has become. We're whole now, he and I, just like we should have been years ago. 

"I love you, Michelle. I always will."

With my heart still aching, I give dad a quick squeeze goodbye and step back. He smiles at me, mouthing how proud he is as the circle of black flames erupts around him. The flames reach up towards the ceiling again, cutting off all contact. The fire remains blazing for a few seconds before retreating, revealing a plain slab of marble where my father had been standing only seconds before.

A menagerie of emotions flicks through my head. I'm happy to see my father again, surprised that he had the audacity to challenge my husband, and sad to see him go. But the few minutes I had with him were more than enough. My heart has healed itself. Finally.