8 comments/  30146 views/  26 favorites

When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 01

By: Kay Derwydd



Part One 
* 
Chapter One

A brisk breeze blew across the lawn and Jordan tugged his jacket closer. He hunched down inside it, mumbling various curses he had acquired over the years. If anyone in his clan had heard him, they would have died of shock. Jordan chuckled. What did they expect? Did they expect him to just settle into a normal life in the human world without picking up the annoying bad habits of humans? Jordan knew better. Hell, his sister was worse, having gone through several legal hoops to marry a Marine.

It was late autumn and despite having lived in the outdoors for so long, Jordan was never this cold. Then again, trees always did provide the warmth his people sought in the colder months. Now he was stuck simply trying to exist once winter set in. Sure, he had an apartment with all its usual amenities, but there were no trees. No evergreens for Jordan to climb and sleep in; no evergreens to provide the needed life for an elf in the dead of winter.

Here he had only the dying remnants of his beloved oaks as they stood sentinel along the walkway leading the way from the Liberal Arts building to the parking lot. Yes, he had a car too, and he was getting better with it. He could drive like any adult human could, but it was a matter of getting used to moving without walking that he was working on. As he neared the parking lot, the green top of his truck loomed over the smaller cars in its row. At least he had been able to find green; it was a nice compromise.

Once the truck was running, Jordan turned up the heater full blast. He hadn't been gone long enough for the engine to go cold, so the heat was a blessed relief from the chill of November outside. As he buckled up, Jordan looked up and watched as a group of students crossed in front of his truck. One of the young men looked his way, and Jordan swore he saw one eye flutter down in a quick wink. He smiled, but the man kept on walking. 

Jordan sighed as he put the truck into drive and pulled out. Being an elf in a human world wasn't all it was cracked up to be. Sure, some guys winked at him, getting his hopes up for the possibility of not having to sleep alone, but they never came through. Jordan grumbled. Nothing had changed by moving to the city. Nothing.

Halfway home, Jordan realized he still needed to go grocery shopping. That was another thing he still wasn't used to: buying his food. With most of the world's forests disappearing in the name of development and expansion, elves had no choice but to move to the cities and take up living as humans do, which included buying their food. Although he wasn't quite used to it, Jordan realized it wasn't all that bad. Much to his family's chagrin, he had developed a taste for such unhealthy things as soft drinks and alcohol. Eating meat was never an issue, provided a prayer of thanks to the animal's spirit was said before the first bite was taken.

Jordan paid little attention to the few stares he received as he walked through the grocery store. He had to admit, he did feel a little strange pushing around a shopping cart, but it must have looked even stranger to those who saw him. Most of the younger ones weren't old enough to remember the first elves. Their parents, however, were, and Jordan often found himself talking about those old days with them. At nearly four hundred years old, he remembered quite a bit. 

Jordan took his time walking up and down the aisles. It had been longer than he had originally thought since he had last gone shopping. He ran through his groceries at home, mentally seeing every shelf in the pantry and refrigerator. Soft drinks were one of his guilty pleasures, as was chocolate. Alcohol held its own soft spot in his heart, although he hated drinking alone. As he walked through the liquor aisle, he snatched up a bottle of white wine and set it in the cart. He knew just who to call to share it with too.

"Mommy! It's a elf!"

Jordan chuckled and smiled down at the little girl who stood beside him as he looked over the selection of potato chips. Her golden pigtails bobbed up and down on either side of her head as she bounced excitedly. Jordan looked up at the apologetic smile on the child's mother's face.

"I'm sorry," the woman said as she placed her hands on her daughter's shoulders. "She's never seen an elf up close."

"It's okay," Jordan said. "It doesn't bother me." He crouched down and smiled at the little girl. "What's your name?"

"Sarah."

"Well, I'm pleased to meet you, Sarah," Jordan said as he held out his hand. "My name is Jordan Shields."

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?" the little girl asked. "Are your ears pointed?"

"Sarah!" The mother's face turned beet-red as she admonished her daughter.

Jordan laughed and pulled his hair back to reveal pointed ears. "They are," he said. "And I have one sister named Selina."

"Wow!" The girl's eyes grew wide as saucers as she stared at Jordan's ears.

"We have to go now, sweetie. Tell Mr. Shields goodbye."

"Bye bye!"

Jordan watched and waved as the little girl and her mother disappeared around the corner of the aisle. He stood and turned around, and just as he started to move his cart forward, he ran into someone. He looked up to apologize, but ended up laughing instead when he realized the person was only Bobby, the only human he trusted implicitly.

"It's still really fucking weird to see you grocery shopping."

Jordan rolled his eyes and grinned. "Yeah, but it's necessary. Didn't expect to see you around."

Bobby fell into step beside Jordan as they walked towards the checkout. "Had to go to the doctor this morning."

Jordan looked over at him, worry etching across his face. Bobby was always the epitome of health. "Why? What's wrong?"

Bobby chuckled. "Not me. Your sister."

Jordan stopped dead in his tracks. "What?"

Bobby's grin broke through. "Selina's having a baby, Jordan. We just found out this morning."

Jordan knew he had to look insanely funny as he stood in the middle of the grocery store with his mouth hanging open. When he finally regained his composure, he blinked several times. "You're kidding."

Bobby shook his head. "Nope. She wanted to tell you herself though, so you didn't hear a damn thing from me."

"Not a word." Jordan got in line and leaned onto the cart as he waited. "You in town for a visit? Or for good?"

"For a visit," Bobby said as he picked up a tabloid newspaper and chuckled. The headline touted a global take-over by gnomes. He set the paper back down and shook his head. "Not sure for how long though. Selina wanted to come visit, so we'll be here for a little while at least."

As Jordan started putting the groceries on the counter, Bobby leaned down and picked up the wine. Jordan didn't bother to look at him; he knew how Bobby was switching his gaze between him and the bottle. Jordan pulled the wine from his brother's hand and set it on the counter. As he watched the clerk scan each item, he pulled his wallet out.

"What's the occasion for the wine? You never drink alone," Bobby asked.

Jordan shrugged. "Matt will drink with me." He handed the money to the cashier and pocketed the change a few seconds later.

"Among other things," Bobby quipped.

Jordan couldn't help but lick his lips slightly at the images Bobby's words brought to mind. "Yeah, among other things."

"You thinking of getting serious with him?" Bobby asked as they walked outside. 

Jordan looked over at him and laughed. "You kidding? I don't think Matt even knows how to spell 'commitment.'"

"Yeah, I'll give you that," Bobby chuckled. "So why screw around with him then?"

Jordan began loading the groceries into the cab of his truck, but he stopped long enough to give Bobby a look that clearly said: 'why do you think?' Bobby opened his mouth and then promptly shut it again.

"Don't answer that."

"Hey," Jordan said as he closed the door, "you asked."

"I need to get back home. You gonna come over tonight?"

Jordan shoved the cart into the cart return space and climbed up into the truck. "If I'm not getting laid, then yes." Bobby just shook his head. "Tell Selina I love her." 

"Will do," Bobby yelled over the rumbling of the truck's engine.

* * *

Once the groceries were put up, Jordan collapsed onto the couch with a can of soda in one hand and the cordless phone in the other. He hit number two on speed dial and took a drink. 

"Hello?" a sleepy male voice answered.

"Come over. I've got wine and an empty bed."

"What time is it?"

Jordan looked at the digital clock sitting on top of the television. "Nine. I know it's early, but I..." He trailed off for a moment, falling silent as he closed his eyes. He hated this part. He hated admitting that he needed anything. 

"Nuff said. I'll be there in about twenty minutes, man."

Jordan hung up the phone and leaned his head back against the couch with a sigh. It was one aspect of his kind that not many were aware of: the need for warmth, in whatever form they could get it. It was why winter was always so difficult, why elves remained physically close to one another during those harsh, cold months. It was why Jordan bit back his pride every time he picked up the phone to call Matt. Matt was the only friend Jordan had who knew it went far beyond simple sex. The heat generated would sustain Jordan for a full month, so long as he didn't take to standing outside in the middle of the night, which wasn't likely. Besides, Jordan had to admit; the sex was pretty damn good.

Before he realized twenty minutes had passed, Jordan heard a knock on the front door. He set his empty can on the coffee table and got up. As soon as he opened the door, he found himself pressed against the wall, Matt's mouth descending on his before the door could even close. 

Jordan groaned and slid his arms around Matt's neck, pulling him closer as Matt's tongue slid between his lips, teasing him with promises of blissful warmth. Jordan spread his legs as Matt's knee wedged between them, pressing hard against his crotch. If there was one thing Jordan loved about Matt, it was the man's blatant moves. Matt never wanted to wait until they got to the bedroom. They had known each other for nearly six years, and since moving into his apartment, Jordan surmised that he been fucked on nearly every feasible surface Matt could find.

Unlike Jordan's thin but strong frame, Matt was muscular, built like any football player would be. Jordan loved to run his fingers over those biceps, over those thighs. He delighted in the way the muscles moved beneath Matt's smooth, tanned skin when Matt had him pinned to the bed. Elves weren't built like that. Elves were graceful and thin, but just as fit. Jordan loved nothing more than to trace each muscle with his tongue as Matt writhed beneath him. 

"I want," Matt whispered gruffly as he kissed his way to Jordan's neck, "to watch you come. I want to see you with your legs spread wide open and your cock in your fist."

Jordan shuddered. Dear gods, but this man had a way with words. A lack of commitment sucked, but the sex with Matt was enough to make up for it for now. Jordan pushed those thoughts away, however, and concentrated on the muscled thigh pressed tight against his denim-covered cock. Matt's breath caressed his skin, drawing another shiver out of him. He clung tightly to Matt's shoulders as his body took matters into its own hands.

"Oh, yeah," Matt groaned as Jordan began rubbing up and down his thigh. "Fuck, you're sexy when you're horny."

Jordan's head fell back against the wall and a soft whimper escaped him as Matt pressed harder. Sweet shocks of pleasure and pain shot through Jordan's body and he bit at his lower lip as the movements of his hips sped up. Gods, he had never been this fucking desperate. Not desperate enough to dry-hump Matt's leg in the living room, at least. 

"Fuck me, please." His grip on Matt's shoulders tightened as he continued to rock his hips, grinding against Matt's thigh. "Please, Matt," he pleaded. "I need it."

The faint sound of a zipper was the immediate answer and Jordan wiggled as his jeans slid down his legs to the floor. His underwear quickly followed, leaving him bare to Matt's touch. A large, strong hand wrapped tight around his cock, taking his breath away as Matt squeezed. Jordan gasped and thrust forward, his head swimming with the sweet, warm friction of flesh on flesh. 

"I want you to come for me, Jordan," Matt whispered close to his lips. 

Jordan shook his head, closing his eyes tightly to stop that very thing from happening. It had been entirely too long. "Not yet. Please, not yet."

He heard Matt chuckle, which told him that he had no say in the matter. He never did. No matter how much he protested, Jordan knew he would give in; he always gave in to Matt. A single stroke. A well-placed kiss. Those were all it took. Jordan's cry died out in Matt's searing kiss as his body shook between Matt and the wall. Warmth spilled over Matt's fist, yet he didn't stop milking his hand up and down Jordan's shaft. Every stroke brought out another tortured whimper and Jordan dug his fingers into Matt's shoulders. 

"More, Jordan," Matt coaxed. "If you want it, you'll have to work for it."

"No more," Jordan said breathlessly, despite the lingering effects still buzzing through him. He could come again, but his legs were growing weak after that first one.

As always, Matt was insistent, knowing Jordan like no one else did. Jordan felt the first touch of green, edging just out of his field of vision. It was something no one else could see, but its effects could be felt, like a warm summer breeze that carries nature's sounds on it. It was to feel the color green, cool and crisp to the touch, and to taste the sweetness of the new grasses of spring. That's what Matt wanted. Jordan's elven magic.

"Bedroom. Now."

Jordan stepped out of his jeans and led the way to the bedroom. Matt closed the door and moved over to the bed, stripping as he walked. He crawled onto his hands and knees between Jordan's legs, then dipped his head down without warning, licking a trail from Jordan's balls to the tip of his cock. Jordan arched off of the bed, curling the sheet into his fists. 

"Turn over."

Without wasting a single second, Jordan did as he was told, flipping over onto his hands and knees. It was how Matt liked him; how he liked it too. From this position, Jordan could jerk off and back up onto Matt, driving his fingers, tongue, cock, whatever he put inside Jordan's body, deeper.

Jordan sank down and rested his head on his forearms, leaving his legs parted and his ass in the air. He shivered when he felt Matt's hands on him, caressing his skin slowly, slipping a single finger down the crease to tease him. Then Matt gripped his buttocks and spread them apart, diving into Jordan's ass with his tongue. Despite knowing what Matt was going to do, it never failed to make Jordan cry out in surprise. The movement was sudden and Matt kept his tongue rigid as he pushed it inside. Jordan backed up and ground against Matt's face, wanting to feel more, wanting to feel something bigger and deeper. 

As Matt pulled away slowly, Jordan expected a cock to press into him, but then he felt fingers. From the stretching of his body, he knew Matt had two fingers buried deep inside him, twisting and stroking as he slid them in and out. A soft moan escaped Jordan's lips and he rose up onto his hands. He rocked back, impaling himself on Matt's fingers as they glided in and out of his body. Gods, he needed more. He needed to feel the heat of Matt's body, slick with their sweat. He needed the heat of their combined releases, warming him inside and out.

"Please," he begged. "Just fuck me. I need this."

He felt Matt pull away, and then came the sensation of cool liquid. Matt's fingers slid back inside. Then the fingers were replaced by something larger, hard and thick. Impatient and near desperate, Jordan backed up, impaling himself hard on Matt's cock. The entry was quick and brutal, and Jordan cried out, fisting the sheet in his hands as his body began to shake. 

"Feel good?" Matt gripped Jordan's hips, pulling him back as he ground against him. 

"Yes!" Jordan cried out. "Gods, yes!" He reached under him and started stroking his own cock furiously. "Fuck me," he ground out through his teeth as his orgasm grew near. 

Matt pulled out until only the tip remained, then thrust back inside, jerking Jordan hard against him. He wound his hand in Jordan's hair, holding his head back at a near painful angle. Every thrust he made sent shockwaves through Jordan's body, and within seconds, Jordan's body went rigid and he cried out Matt's name. Matt made several rapid thrusts before burying his cock deep inside Jordan's body as he came.

The heat was immediate, an intense rush of energy that singed along Jordan's spine, waking every nerve in his body. A lush warmth enveloped him, surrounding him in green brilliance. Only when the light began to fade, did Jordan move.

"Holy hell." He collapsed onto the bed, face first. Matt quickly joined him, slipping out and stretching beside him. He stroked his fingers along Jordan's spine and Jordan groaned softly. 

"Did I break you?"

Jordan chuckled. "No, but damn..." He turned his head, which was next to impossible considering how limp the rest of his body felt.

"I need to get ready for work," Matt said. He kissed Jordan's shoulder before sliding out of bed. Jordan could only nod.

"Parker and Jess were talking about heading over to Elixir this Friday," Matt said from the bathroom. Jordan barely heard him over the sound of running water. "Wanna go?"

"This Friday?" Jordan rolled over onto his side with a groan and watched Matt clean up. "Yeah, I guess so."

"When is your class today? Maybe we can catch each other for lunch." Matt turned off the water and tossed the towel into the clothes hamper by the door. He walked over to the bed and sat down, stroking his hand slowly over Jordan's cheek.

"Two." 

"You wanna do lunch?"

Jordan shrugged and closed his eyes, turning his head slightly into Matt's touch. He knew Matt cared about him as a friend and occasional lover, but it never went beyond that. He couldn't help but feel the slightest twinge of relief. He cared greatly for Matt as well, but he couldn't imagine spending a lifetime--well, a human's lifetime--with the university's star quarterback. Matt might be open about his sexuality, but commitment was something he simply wasn't into. Jordan sighed and sat up, needing more than anything to take a shower.

"Yeah, we can do lunch." He slid off of the bed and made his way to the bathroom. He felt the soft press of lips on his shoulder as Matt left. When he heard the front door close, Jordan closed his eyes. "Someday," he said to the empty room. "I swear I'll find him. Whoever him is." 

* * *

"Come to Elixir with me."

Jordan sighed and sat down at his desk. The last of his class was filing out of the door, leaving him alone with Jessica Merchant. He looked up at the young woman and couldn't help but notice the glimmer of hope in her eyes. "I told Matt I'd be there Friday."

Jessica looked back to the door as it closed behind the last student, then knelt down beside Jordan. "Come on, Jordan. Parker won't be here until Thursday night, and I need to get out of the house."

"None of your sorority sisters are into that sort of thing, are they?" Jordan asked her. 

Her gaze narrowed. "Are you kidding? They'd be too afraid of breaking a fucking nail. Heaven forbid they should be witness to a mosh pit."

"Okay, I'll give you that," Jordan laughed. 

"Please? There are lots of cute, single guys there."

"If I really wanted to get laid, I'd call Matt again," Jordan said as he stood. He gathered the essays and slid them into the backpack on the floor. "Fine. I'll go, but I can't stay out late. I really do need to catch up on my sleep."

When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 02



Chapter Two

"You wish to feed, Master?"

Dorian smiled and held out his hand. The young man before him slipped his hand into Dorian's and Dorian pulled him into the room. As the door shut behind them, muffling the sound of the music from the club below, he led the young man into the bedroom. When he turned, he nodded. The young man removed his clothing with the silent command, and Dorian pulled him close.

"You are so kind to me, Josef," Dorian said. "Why do you remain when others will not?"

"Because I care for you."

"Even when I have no love to give you?"

Josef smiled and slid his arms around Dorian's neck. "You have love, Dorian. You only need to find the one who can bring it out." He brushed his lips over Dorian's, taking Dorian's breath away. "Now, take what you need. All I ask is pleasure in return, as always."

Something within him resented this, resented using Josef this way. Dorian closed his eyes with the feel of those lips against his own. Yes, he had the capability to love; he did not doubt that. Yet after six hundred years, he wondered if he would ever find someone who would accept what he was, the monster he was. The press of Josef's body to his was insistent, and it aroused other needs within him as well. 

"Please," Josef murmured. He snaked his tongue over Dorian's lips.

"Yes." Dorian backed up towards the bed, pulling Josef with him, never breaking the contact of their bodies. When the backs of his legs touched the bed, he turned and eased Josef down before standing to remove his own clothing. 

"You are so beautiful, Dorian." Josef extended a hand, which Dorian took as he settled between the young man's legs. "And you will find the one for you."

Dorian reached over to the bedside table and grabbed the small bottle. He sat back on his heels as he slicked his cock with the gel, watching Josef watching him. He loved seeing the desire in a young man's eyes, the flush of it as it colored smooth skin. But there was always something missing, something kept just out of his reach. Perhaps it was love he was searching for, eluding him just when his fingertips touched it, only to slip back into the abyss. He wanted to follow it; his desire for the world outside was beginning to wane.

"Dorian..."

The whispered plea brought his mind back to the matter at hand, so to speak. Josef was beneath him, his body arching to Dorian's touch. Dorian leaned his head down to brush a soft kiss to Josef's lips as he positioned his cock. As he slipped his tongue into Josef's mouth, he pushed with his hips, sinking himself deep inside that luscious heat. Christ, if only it went soul-deep.

Josef panted as Dorian pulled away from their kiss. With one hand by Josef's head, propping himself up, Dorian began stroking in and out of Josef's body, watching the pleasure contort Josef's face into a mask of bliss. He slipped his other hand between their bodies and circled Josef's cock with it, stroking it to match the thrusts of his hips. Josef's eyes rolled back as they closed and Dorian felt the young man's body tighten around him. With a throaty cry, Josef came and Dorian struck swiftly, sinking his fangs deep into Josef's neck.

With every pull, every life-giving swallow, Dorian extended Josef's pleasure, knowing the effect was akin to rapture. As Josef bucked wildly beneath him, Dorian growled against his throat, his cock pulsing deep inside Josef's body as he came. When his own orgasm subsided, he pulled away from Josef's neck, licking the wounds to close them.

"Damn," Josef said breathlessly. "I think it gets better with time."

Dorian nodded and closed his eyes as he rested his head on Josef's shoulder. At this point in his life--or unlife, as it were--Josef was his last link with sanity. The façade was becoming tiresome.

"You know, you really should find a boyfriend and stop with the brooding."

Dorian lifted his head and kissed Josef before pulling away. Josef curled up on his side, sated and sleepy. Dorian walked into the bathroom and washed off before slipping his robe on. The black silk felt cool against his still-heated skin and he looked up in the mirror. A pair of cobalt blue eyes stared back at him, from just over his shoulder. 

"Why? So you can find something else to nit-pick about whomever I choose?"

There was a touch of dark amusement in those eyes and Dorian shook his head as he turned off the light. He walked out, and felt the presence follow him into the living room.

"There are so many pretty ones down there tonight. You could always go play."

"Shut up, Lorik." Dorian picked up the television remote and hit the power button. The evening news flickered on, yet he kept the sound muted, preferring to read the news anchor's lips. The music from downstairs was much more enjoyable.

"Then get your ancient ass down there and enjoy it already!"

"My ancient ass?" he asked aloud. "And just pray tell who is more ancient? Shall we debate this one again?"

"You're no fun tonight, Dorian." There was a pout within those words. Dorian groaned.

"Why? Because I refuse to argue with a disembodied voice?"

A brush of a hand drifted over Dorian's thigh, pulling away the edge of his robe. It wasn't often Lorik made himself known, but when he did, things were bound to get interesting. The hand drifted up Dorian's thigh, slipping between his legs and parting them slowly. He let his head fall back as the caress moved higher to brush over the silk covering his cock. He wasn't hard, but if Lorik kept this up, he certainly would be.

"You are cruel," he grumbled.

Lorik chuckled. It seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at the same time. "And you would have me no other way."

"Don't you have better things to do than torment a lonely vampire?"

"And where would I go, my dear Dorian? I am tied to you. You know that."

Dorian grumbled and stood, needing to get away from those ghosting touches. He walked over to the bay window overlooking the dance floor below and sat down. At ten o'clock in the evening, the crowd was already a thriving mass of sweat-slick bodies, gyrating together to the driving rhythm of the music. There was no live band tonight, only the usual house music pumped out of enormous speakers by the man hidden in a dark booth to the left of the dance floor. Dorian scanned the crowd with little more than a passing interest.

"Look at them, Lorik. All so beautiful, but none of them strike me as being..." He sighed and shook his head. "The one."

"You're looking too hard, Dorian. Just go down there," Lorik coaxed. "Go play with them. Dance with them. Touch them and let their essence fill you. You will find the one for you; of that, I have no doubt."

"I'm tired of waiting," Dorian muttered. "Six hundred years, and in all that time, you were the only one I ever loved."

He watched the people continue to file in through the front door, stepping to present identification and pay the cover before stepping into his world. None of them held so much as a spark. Giving up on the game entirely, Dorian started to turn away from the window. Then he stopped. 

A young man stood at the front door below, chatting with the woman beside him. The doorman looked him up and down, then handed the young man's ID card back to him. When the young man turned to face the club, Dorian froze. If he'd had a heart, it would have skipped a beat.

Dark brown hair brushed the man's shoulders, drawing Dorian's gaze down a lean, lithe body covered from head to foot in black. His skin was paler than those around him, and when he raised his head to look up towards the dancers on the catwalks, Dorian's breath caught in his throat. The young man's green gaze focused sharply on the club surroundings, then drifted slowly around the cavernous room. Dorian shivered when that gaze slid by him. He knew he could not be seen through the two-way mirror, but for the first time since installing it, he wished he could be.

"Ah, yes. Now that is a pretty one. Fine, delicate features. Lithe form. Such luscious lips, made perfect for a kiss. Wouldn't you agree, Dorian?"

Dorian paid little attention to Lorik's running commentary. Everything Lorik pointed out, Dorian could see for himself. And how he wanted it. He wanted to touch the sliver of smooth flesh that peeked out from the top of the man's shirt where it lay open. He wanted to run his fingers over those leather-covered thighs and feel them tighten under his caress. He longed to see those eyes darken with passion as he teased and tantalized him. And he didn't even know his name.

"I want him." Dorian looked to his left, knowing Lorik was there, watching him as he watched the young man downstairs. "I must have him."

"It is not like you to obsess."

Dorian tore his gaze from the young man and forced himself to walk away from the window. "I am not obsessing." At the sound of rustling clothes, he walked back to the bedroom. Josef was awake and dressing, but stopped when Dorian stepped into the doorway. "Did you sleep well?"

Josef smiled and finished buttoning his pants before walking over to Dorian to slide his arms around Dorian's neck. "Oh, yeah." He licked Dorian's lips. "But I need to get back downstairs. Steph is probably wondering what happened to me."

"She knows where you are," Dorian said with a smile as he slid his arms around Josef's slim waist.

"Yeah," Josef said with shrug, "but as her assistant bartender, I kind of have to be there when the crowd starts to become too much to handle." He kissed Dorian softly and pulled away. "And it looks like they're already getting to that point," he said as he stared out the window. "You coming down?"

Dorian shook his head. "Not tonight, I think."

Josef leaned over to kiss him, then turned and left, closing the door behind him. Dorian looked back down at the dance floor, suddenly wishing he had not. The entrancing sight of the anonymous young man greeted him. Dorian watched him as he danced; his movements easy and fluid, serpentine and sleek. Not until the sharp, coppery taste hit him, did Dorian realize he had been biting his lip. He licked the blood away with an absent swipe of his tongue.

"You want him for more than a casual fuck."

Dorian nodded slowly. "I do."

"But you do not know him."

"I want to."

"So go down there and meet him, Dorian. Steal a taste of him. It is the only way you will know."

"Not yet. It's too soon."

  

"Dorian!"

Dorian groaned before looking up from the book in front of him. He had managed to escape Carl for rest of that night and with dawn quickly approaching, he needed to get finished with the expenses tracking and get to bed. As his manager burst in through his office door, the prospect of sleep didn't look very likely. Dorian sighed and put down as his pen as he sat back in the chair. He eyed the middle-aged man curiously, as it was unlike Carl to get winded.

"Yes?"

Carl plopped down into the wing chair in front of the desk. "We're completely out of Captain Morgan, and Josef is nowhere to be seen. I swear, when I find that boy, I'll-"

As if on cue, the missing assistant bartender padded out of the bedroom, shoes in hand and looking thoroughly well-fucked. He had come back up to the apartment during a lull in the crowd, and Dorian had taken full advantage of it. Josef stopped when he saw Carl fuming in the chair. Dorian fought like hell to suppress the grin that wanted out upon seeing his manager's mouth hang open in disbelief. Josef looked from Dorian to Carl, then back to Dorian.

"Did I miss something?"

Carl snapped his mouth shut and shot Dorian a look that made it clear he was not believing what he was seeing. "Please," he said as he dropped his head to his hand, "tell me I'm not seeing what I think I'm seeing."

"What?" Josef said rather defensively as he sat down in another chair to slip on his shoes. 

"Please tell me my little brother isn't fucking his boss," Carl groaned.

"And if I am?"

"Oh, Christ." Carl stood abruptly and began pacing. "Have you no sense?"

"Are you regulating my sex life now?" Josef asked him calmly.

Dorian simply sat back and watched the two brothers exchange quips back and forth. The situation was, at best, comical. He knew Carl wouldn't take too well with Josef's choice in fuck buddies. Heaven forbid Carl should find out his other aspect aside from being the club's owner. He watched Carl storm out of the other door of his office, and a few minutes later, the front door of the apartment slammed shut. 

"You think he knows?"

Josef looked up after tying his shoes. "What? That we're fucking? He certainly does now."

Dorian stood and walked out into the living room. He looked out the window and watched as Carl stacked boxes of lemons in the cooler. It was obvious the man was angry.

"That's not what I mean," Dorian said quietly. When he felt a pair of arms encircle him, he leaned back, not taking his eyes off of his manager downstairs.

"He hasn't shown any indication of suspecting," Josef said. 

As Dorian watched Carl, he wasn't entirely convinced. Something about the way Carl had looked--no, glared--at him before storming out of the apartment, set Dorian's nerves on edge. More than usual. 

"Are you really worried that he might know?"

Dorian sighed and turned, confident in the knowledge that they could not be seen as he slid his arms around Josef's neck. "I do not worry for myself," he said. "I worry more for you. Your brother has a nasty temper about him."

"Tell me about it," Josef grumbled with a roll of his eyes. "Look, he's just being protective."

Dorian lifted an eyebrow dubiously.

"Okay, overprotective," Josef corrected himself. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind Dorian's left ear and smiled. "Just give him some time to cool off. Carl's an asshole, but he's not the vindictive type."

Dorian nodded, having little energy to do much else. The incident with Carl had left his nerves in shambles and he was already growing hungry again. A single finger slipped under his chin, lifting his head to meet Josef's calm, knowing gaze.

"You didn't take much before," Josef said as he tipped his head to the side. "Drink, before you collapse."

"I can't." Dorian shook his head, determined not to rely so heavily on Josef, especially three times in one night.

"Dorian."

He looked up and realized he wasn't going to win this one, simply by the look of determination on Josef's face. With a defeated sigh, Dorian brushed Josef's hair back from his neck and leaned into him. A soft sound escaped Josef as Dorian sank his fangs into his throat. The rich liquid ran over his tongue and down his throat, easing both the hunger and the battle on his nerves. He took only enough to dull the ache, then licked the wounds softly to close them.

"I need to get down there and help out before he freaks and comes back up here," Josef whispered. 

Dorian nodded and raised his head for a kiss. When Josef walked out, Dorian turned to look out the window, hoping Carl wouldn't try to start anything. Carl straightened himself as Josef walked over to the bar. They exchanged a few words, some of which seemed to be not-so-gentle, then Josef shook his head and went about cleaning. Carl watched him for a moment before returning his own work, but not before casting a dark glance up at the two-way mirror.

"Be watchful of that one."

Dorian nodded, knowing Lorik was right. "I am. I only hired him because of Josef, and now I'm wishing I had not."

"Probably not your wisest move to date," the spirit quipped.

"Everyone makes mistakes, Lorik." Dorian watched the two brothers, finding a bit of dark humor in how different they were from each other. "Everyone holds a regret of some sort."

"Uh huh. And yet you let the lovely dancing beauty get away..."

"Oh, shut up," Dorian grumbled. 

He turned away from the window and crossed the living room, heading towards the kitchen. He hated drinking from bottles; absolutely hated it. He had only taken a tiny amount from Josef, not wanting to overdo it so soon after their tryst in the bedroom. As he pulled open the refrigerator, he felt the brush of a hand over the small of his back.

"Please, Lorik...not now."

"I haven't touched you in so long, Dorian."

Dorian closed his eyes as the unmistakable sensation of warm breath caressed his neck. It was the least he could do. Dead or no, Lorik was still his Master, and Dorian still held love for him, regardless of the passing of time. He closed the refrigerator and opened the bottle, drinking nearly half of it in one swallow. Behind him, Lorik's body pressed to his, and the brush of his long-dead Master's lips over his neck sent chills rippling through Dorian's body.

He finished the bottle and tossed it into the garbage can before turning around. The ephemeral form of his creator--his Master--watched him with a wistful expression. Dorian reached up, wanting to touch, but his hand passed through Lorik's body, just as he had expected it would. Lorik, however, could touch him, on many levels. It was a game they played as often as they could, as often as Lorik could. It took a great amount of energy on his part to come into form, and it came with a hefty price. Dorian could no longer kiss him, or touch him. 

"Come," Lorik coaxed softly. "Please. You need this, Dorian. We both need this."

Dorian put up no resistance. He knew Lorik was right. Hell, Lorik was always right. He allowed himself to be led to the bedroom, then lowered onto the bed. He slid up to the pillows on his back, watching as Lorik crawled across the bed to settle between his legs. He kept his hands locked under his head. It was far more painful to try to touch and not be able to, than to not try at all. As Lorik pulled his pants down and off, Dorian grew hard, simply remembering what his Master had been like in all his former glory.

"Do not think of me," Lorik murmured as he drifted over Dorian's body, stopping to push his shirt up. Dorian gasped when the tip of Lorik's tongue teased over his right nipple. "Think of your dancing beauty; open, slick, his sweet flesh glistening with sweat, the warmth of his mouth, his body."

Gods. Lorik always did have a way with words--sarcastic one minute, sultry and seductive the next. Dorian closed his eyes, and he did think of his dancing, nameless beauty. The lilting kisses that rained over his chest soon descended; lower and lower, until he felt a dusting of kisses over the length of his cock. He caught his lower lip in his teeth, nicking it with one of his fangs. The blood which spilled over his tongue was a mélange of flavors, each one as unique as the body it came from.

As Lorik's lips surrounded his cock, Dorian could no longer contain himself. He thrust up, burying his length in his Master's mouth. Lorik's thoughts drifted through his mind, bringing back images of the nameless beauty he had seen. And wanted. 

"Yes, Dorian," Lorik purred. "Taste him; imagine his sweet, rich blood as it flows over your tongue. The strength of his thighs as his legs wrap around you, pulling you deeper inside his body."

"Oh, gods..." Dorian's breathing grew labored and he lifted his head to watch Lorik. For him, Lorik did what no one else ever would. As Lorik's slick finger entered him, Dorian was mesmerized as his Master's form gave way to that of his nameless dancing beauty. 

When a green gaze fell on him and Lorik's finger twisted inside him, Dorian cried out. He fell back onto the bed as the unrelenting thrust of his hips drove his cock deeper into his Master's mouth. Rush after rush hit him, drawing out one cry after another. When his orgasm finally began to relinquish its hold, Dorian didn't fight the pull of sleep. He felt the nudge of Lorik's body as Lorik slid up to kiss him, then he was aware of nothing else. 



When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 03



Chapter Three

The driving rhythm of the bass vibrated the walls of Elixir and the music spilled out into the street. The doormen seemed oblivious as one checked IDs while the other collected the five dollar cover charge. Jordan shivered as he waited in line. No doubt the others—Matt, Jessica, and Parker—were already inside, drinking without him. As the line moved slowly, he huddled deeper into his coat. A few passers-by stared at him, obviously finding great amusement in his predicament. At sixty degrees and only a slight breeze, most were not greatly affected by the chill night air. Jordan, however, felt like he was going to freeze to death.

As his turn at the door finally came, Jordan pulled out his wallet. He handed the first man the small, government-issued card and held the man's dubious gaze. Jordan knew he looked young—nineteen or so by mortal years. Then the man looked down at the card. Jordan forced his expression to remain neutral when all he wanted to do was laugh.

"Go on," the man said, handing the card back to Jordan by pinching it between his thumb and index finger. The gesture reminded Jordan that, despite the government's recognition of elves, there were those who did not feel the same, or at the least, simply didn't know what to think at all. Judging by the man's reaction, Jordan figured the doorman was of the former mindset.

After paying the cover, Jordan walked into the club and was immediately assaulted by the thunderous music. He scanned the dark room, searching through the mass of black-clad bodies for Matt and the others. Nearly every surface in the club was painted black. Steel bars acted as footrests along the bottom of each of the three bars, and steel catwalks lined the walls and ceiling. A steel staircase led up to the second level and there, people leaned over the rails and danced along the catwalks. Jordan marveled at the ability of the general drunk populace of the place; he was constantly waiting for someone to fall. The only lights in the entire club were one of two fluorescent colors: blue or purple.

On the stage, a gothic band Jordan had never seen before was playing to a crowd of yelling, moshing, and near-fucking people. Jordan was amazed that clothing wasn't optional, as many wore very little at all. Just as he had nearly given up, Jordan spotted Matt sitting at a table near the bar. Beside Matt, a head full of fire engine red curls rose and a ruby smile greeted Jordan. He started for the table, looking for Parker. 

"Parker's here," Jessica shouted over the music. "Somewhere. I think he went looking for you."

Jordan nodded and twisted the chair around to straddle it. "How long have you all been here?"

"About twenty minutes," Matt said as he leaned over to give Jordan a kiss. "Glad you could make it. Wanna dance?"

Jordan grinned and stood, pulling Matt up with him. "Anytime."

He squeezed through the crowd on the black lacquered dancer floor. When he found a small opening, he turned around and pulled Matt close. The pulse of the music settled deep inside him as they began to dance, moving their bodies together in a rhythm that left nothing to the imagination. Jordan gasped and bit his bottom lip as Matt's body grazed across his own. Then he felt another body behind him and an arm slid around his waist. Thinking it was Parker, since the arm was definitely a man's, Jordan simply leaned back.

He rocked his body in time to the hard rhythm of the music and quickly found himself sandwiched between Matt and Parker. He opened to Matt's sudden kiss, moaning as their tongues met. When he felt his hair brush away from his neck, Jordan reached back with one hand and pulled Parker's head to his throat. Parker knew how sensitive the nape of his neck was, and as Matt's kiss turned more heated and insistent, Parker's kisses on Jordan's neck mirrored them. A soft tongue flicked across his skin, followed by the slightest nip. Jordan shuddered hard and groaned as both men caught him between their bodies. Then Parker began to move away. Jordan's protest died out in Matt's kiss.

"Your taste is unique, one that I cannot forget."

Jordan felt every inch of his flesh ripple. That voice did not belong to Parker. He pulled away from Matt's mouth and spun around, but there was no one there, only the others dancing around them. He looked back to Matt.

"Who the fuck was that?"

Matt pulled him close again and resumed their dance, despite Jordan's slight resistance. "Dorian Baptiste," he said. "Owner of Elixir."

Jordan remained silent and finally pulled away from Matt altogether. "I need a drink."

Matt shrugged and took Jordan's hand, pulling him out of the crowd and towards the bar. The bar area was no less crowded than the dance floor and it took several minutes before Jordan was able to get close enough to even order. Just as he opened his mouth to tell the bartender what he wanted, the words completely escaped him. In a doorway behind the bar, leaning against the doorframe, was a tall man with long chestnut hair. Pale blue eyes stared back at Jordan and another chill ran through him. He tore his gaze away from the man and looked back to the bartender.

"Rum and coke," he said. When the bartender turned away once more, Jordan looked back towards the doorway. The man was gone. Jordan's drink was set in front of him then, but as he started to count out the money to pay, the bartender shook his head.

"On the house," he shouted over the noise. He turned away before Jordan had a chance to ask anything more.

Jordan looked around and giving up on finding the man again, he took a sip of his drink and turned to squeeze back through the crowd. As soon as he made it back to the table, he sat down and drank half of his rum and coke in one swallow. As he set the cup down on the table, he met Matt's steady gaze. Jessica and Parker were nowhere in sight.

"Where did the others go?"

Matt grinned. "Parker's in town for the weekend. Where do you think?"

Jordan laughed and shook his head. "That explains things."

"You okay?"

He looked back up at Matt. "Yeah, just a bit weirded out, I guess. I thought that guy was Parker."

"Dorian likes to do that," Matt said with a shrug. "He likes to check out the new faces personally."

"How do you know so much about him?"

"Hearsay. I've been here before, remember?"

Jordan nodded and looked back out at the crowd. That's when he saw him again. Caught between a woman in front of him and a man behind him, Dorian Baptiste danced. One arm was tight around the woman's waist, holding her body close to his. Jordan's mouth ran dry as he watched every sinuous move the owner made, the glide of muscles beneath smooth skin tantalizing him. Dorian's black silk shirt shimmered in the purple and blue lights, and his black leather pants hugged every graceful curve of his body from the waist down. His hair was damp with sweat and his eyes were closed, but Jordan could still feel that blue stare settling somewhere deep inside him. 

"Jordan?"

Jordan shook his head quickly, bringing his attention back to Matt. He grinned sheepishly, but knew Matt wasn't buying simply from the look on his face. "What?"

"Nothing," Matt said, throwing his arms up and shaking his head. "Just wondered if you had come back to this world or not."

Jordan looked back to the dance floor, but Dorian was gone again. "Yeah, I'm here. I'm fine."

"He's single."

He gave Matt a dubious look. "Oh, come on. A man that fucking gorgeous? I bet he has men and women at his beck and call," Jordan laughed. He fell silent, however, when Matt's gaze shifted. When Jordan turned around, his heart nearly stopped.

"Good evening." 

Sensuous lips curled up into a smile, revealing pristine white teeth. A spellbinding gaze held Jordan in its grasp, rendering him utterly speechless. A slender hand extended towards him.

"My name is Dorian Baptiste. I always find it a pleasure to meet those who are new to my club."

Jordan looked down at the hand and back up at Dorian's face. Swallowing hard, he took the man's hand and gave it a tentative shake. "Pleasure. I'm Jordan Shields."

Dorian's smile was almost as haunting as his stare, and Jordan found himself standing to look at the man at an equal level. Dorian slid his thumb lightly over Jordan's hand, and with a gentle tug, Jordan followed the man out onto the dance floor, unable to find the words to protest.

Before he could say a word, Jordan found himself pressed tightly to Dorian. Their bodies slid together in time with the steady pulse of the music and every brush sent waves of sensations through Jordan. When Dorian drew closer, Jordan offered no protest. When Dorian's lips met his, Jordan opened for him without hesitation. He snaked his arms around Dorian's neck and their dance stilled as their tongues touched, stroking across each other in a slow, drugging dance of their own. 

Dear gods. This man was dangerous.

"What are you?" Jordan whispered as Dorian slowly broke their kiss.

Dorian chuckled. "What am I?" He brushed his lips across Jordan's cheek to his ear. "I think," he whispered, "the question would be: what are you, Mr. Shields."

Jordan bit his lip and closed his eyes as a shudder ran through him. He didn't bother to stop Dorian as the man lifted his hair. 

"Ah, I see," Dorian said. "That explains the way you taste."

"The way I taste?" Jordan tried to turn his head, but Dorian held his hair, preventing movement. 

"Yes." Dorian tilted Jordan's head down slightly and slid his tongue along the curve of Jordan's ear. When he reached the pointed tip, he sucked it into his mouth. Had it not been for Dorian's other arm around his waist, Jordan would have hit the floor then.

"Oh, gods..."

"Feel good?" Dorian murmured as he licked the tip of Jordan's ear. Jordan could only nod and hold tighter to Dorian. "I can make you feel so much better, Jordan. If only you let me."

"I..." Jordan lost his train of thought as Dorian's tongue flicked over his ear before he sucked it back into his mouth. "Gods, what are you doing to me?"

"I want you, Jordan," Dorian whispered. "I want to taste you again. Deeper. And longer." 

"I can't..." Jordan gasped as Dorian's tongue slid slowly over the curve of his throat.

"Shh," Dorian purred softly. "I would never hurt you."

"But you don't even know me." Jordan knew it was a weak protest, and in truth, it took all he had to form even something so simple. Dorian's kisses on his neck drew out shiver after shiver, rendering Jordan incapable of any coherent, sensible thought. 

"I want to know you, Jordan. I want to touch you." Dorian placed a light kiss to the hollow of Jordan's throat. "To taste you." His lips drifted across Jordan's neck, leaving a trail of tingling heat. Dorian moved his mouth back to up Jordan's ear and whispered, "to devour you."

Despite the warning signals going off in his mind, Jordan was unable to resist. The need within him for something more tangible than intimate whispers on a dance floor consumed him until the only thing he could say or think was, "please."

"Come."

A soft whimper of protest escaped Jordan as Dorian pulled away. With a tug on his hand, Jordan followed the man off of the dance floor and up one of the metal staircases. Several others stared at them, many looking quite jealous, as Dorian led Jordan by the hand down the catwalk. When they reached another staircase, Jordan looked up and swallowed hard. Only a single door stood at the top. This was it then. He had officially lost his mind. Yet when Dorian started up the steps, Jordan was right behind him, nervous and biting at his lip again in breathless anticipation.

Dorian opened the door and stood to the side, ushering Jordan into the room with a graceful sweep of his hand. Jordan walked in and looked around in stunned silence. It was an apartment, complete with an entryway and several long hallways on both sides. A spacious living room was directly in front of him, and to its left, a small kitchen. The apartment was decorated in much the same way as the club downstairs, even down to the steel piping of the black leather-covered furniture. With a flip of a switch, blue and purple lights flickered on overhead in the living room. 

"Make yourself at home," Dorian said with a cryptic smile. He brushed past Jordan and started towards the kitchen. "Would you like something to drink?"

Jordan resisted the urge to say, 'yeah, you,' and instead opted for something to break the awkwardness of this sudden situation. "I don't suppose you have any rum up here, do you?"

Dorian chuckled as he opened up a lower cabinet in the kitchen. "Any particular brand suit you?" He crouched down and looked up in Jordan's direction. Jordan shook his head slowly. "Then a surprise it is." Dorian reached into the cabinet and pulled out a bottle. He then stood and opened another cabinet and took out a small tumbler. Once back in the living room, he set both on the steel coffee table. 

"You don't drink?" Jordan asked as he sat down on the edge of the couch, taking care not to sit too close. Not yet, anyway.

"I do," Dorian said with a nod, "but I prefer my poison a little more..." When his words trailed off, Jordan looked over at him. "Delicate."

Jordan itched to touch those lips, to run his fingers over them and then kiss them. He wanted to know what Dorian Baptiste sounded like when he cried out in pleasure. Or if he cried out at all.

"I do on occasion."

Jordan's eyes widened. "You can read minds?"

Dorian smiled slowly. "I have been known to, but with you, I can see your thoughts reflected in your eyes." He moved closer, sliding across the leather cushions until their thighs were touching. "You desire me," he whispered as he slipped a hand beneath Jordan's hair to turn his head. "Yet you are nervous. Why?"

Jordan opened his mouth to respond but found that he really had no answer. He had no clue why he was so nervous, but he definitely was. "I don't know."

Instead of answering, Dorian leaned forward and brushed his lips across Jordan's. A soft, almost desperate sound escaped Jordan as Dorian's gentle insistence pushed him back. He shifted and spread his legs, and Dorian knelt between them, slipping his tongue into Jordan's mouth. Jordan moaned softly and unable to keep them to himself any longer, he moved his hands over Dorian's shoulders and down his back. The ripple of muscles, growing tight and relaxing with every move Dorian made, was fascinating. Sweet gods, the man was beautiful.

"Touch me, Jordan," Dorian murmured on Jordan's lips. He reached up and pulled one of Jordan's hands down, sliding it over his chest as he held himself up on one arm.

When Jordan's fingertips touched the waistband of Dorian's leather pants, he looked up to Dorian's face. He popped the snap on the pants and slipped his hand inside. Much to his surprise--and delight--Dorian wore nothing underneath. Hard flesh met Jordan's fingers and he was rewarded by a slight catch in Dorian's breath. Those blue eyes disappeared beneath long, dark lashes as Jordan wrapped his fingers around Dorian's cock. 

"Yes," Dorian breathed. He groaned softly and rocked his hips forward, sliding his length through Jordan's fist. "So warm."

Jordan was breathless. Utterly breathless. Never in a million years did he ever think he'd have such a beautiful creature, right in the palm of his hand. Literally. The hardness in his hand sent a direct message to Jordan's brain, short-circuiting it within seconds. Taste. He needed to taste Dorian. Now.

"Lie down," he said. Dorian acquiesced without a word, only a knowing smile on those full lips. Jordan sat up on his knees and with a hearty tug, pulled Dorian's pants down to his knees. The sight of Dorian hard and wanting was intoxicating. "Gods," Jordan whispered. He looked back up to Dorian's face. "I want to taste you."

Without giving Dorian a chance to say a word, Jordan leaned down and drew his tongue up the graceful line of Dorian's cock. A sharp intake of breath greeted him and he smiled. He circled the base with his thumb and forefinger, then rolled his tongue over the tip. Dorian shuddered and slid his fingers through Jordan's hair, pulling it away from his face as he thrust up. 

"Jordan."

Hearing his name on such a breathy sigh was nearly Jordan's undoing. He had never been driven so close to the edge by a simple whisper. He rolled his gaze up to hold Dorian's as he opened his mouth. Blue eyes painted dark with lust focused sharply on him as Jordan closed his lips around the head of Dorian's cock. Then he closed his own eyes and slid further down, swallowing well over half of Dorian's length. 

Hard, hot flesh. Those sweet drops from the tip were as potent as any elixir. Jordan could drown himself in it. He pulled back slowly and rolled his tongue around the tip again. When he opened his eyes, he found himself pinned by a near-black gaze. Dorian stroked Jordan's cheek softly and slipped a finger into his mouth. Jordan released his cock to suck on the finger, swirling his tongue around it. Dorian's skin wasn't salty and rough like any other man's. His skin was sweet and supple, smooth to the touch. He tasted of cloves and ginger, with a hint of cinnamon. And something more, something rich.

He watched as Dorian withdrew his finger and sucked it into his own mouth, as if he wanted to savor the taste of himself mingled with Jordan. Those dark eyes glittered, reflecting the purple and blue lights in their blackened depths. Jordan had long since forgotten that he wanted to suck Dorian's cock. All he could think about was seeing those lips wrapped around him. A smile spread slowly over Dorian's lips and Jordan knew his desire was laid bare once more.

Dorian sat up and finished removing his pants. He then rid Jordan of his in the blink of an eye. For the first time in all of his existence, Jordan felt self-conscious as he sat naked in front of another man. Dorian gave him little chance to ponder on the matter and slipped an arm beneath Jordan, turning him around as he dropped gracefully to his knees on the floor. Kneeling between Jordan's legs, Dorian placed light kisses up one thigh and then the other, lingering near the top but going no higher. Only when Dorian pulled away slightly did Jordan remember to breathe. 

"So hard," Dorian said as he stroked a finger up Jordan's inner thigh. "It's so hard to sit here, watching the rhythm of your breathing, watching the way your body moves into my touch, and yet I cannot take what I wish."

Jordan blinked several times, unsure if he had heard Dorian correctly. "Why can't you?"

Dorian smiled. It was an almost wistful gesture, as if he held regret within him. "Because I am afraid of wanting too much."

Jordan sat up and slid his fingers through Dorian's hair, tilting his head back to see his eyes. "I want you," he whispered. "I want to feel you, Dorian."

Dorian closed his eyes and turned his head enough to kiss Jordan's palm softly. "To hear my name on your lips..."

Jordan turned his head back around. "Then give me the chance to say it when you're buried inside me."

A soft sigh fell from Dorian's lips as they parted. Jordan closed the distance between them this time, wanting to regain the feeling of barely-leased passion they both had been caught in only moments before. In reality, it didn't take long. The moment their lips met, Dorian's hand circled Jordan's cock, drawing out a cry from Jordan as he stroked it. Jordan fell back onto the couch. Every slow stroke was torture, pure exquisite torture. 

He lifted his head just enough to see Dorian's gaze shift from his face to the glistening tip of his cock. Then those lips parted and a soft, pale pink tongue slipped out to flick across the tip. Jordan gasped and his head fell back once again. He reached down and held Dorian's hair back, his breath catching as Dorian rolled his tongue around his cock. Then there was warmth. Sweet, blessed heat. Jordan cried out as the slick velvet of Dorian's mouth engulfed him, surrounding him in a warm, silken sheath.




When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 03



"Gods." At that moment, Jordan was unsure if the word was a curse or a prayer. Perhaps both. Dorian's tongue was like a flame, dancing around the hardened flesh and teasing Jordan to no end. If he died now, he would die happy. 

Slicking the shaft with saliva, Dorian began stroking his hand up and down Jordan's cock as his lips surrounded and caressed it. That tongue, those enchanting lips; they drew every little touch of resistance out of Jordan, resistance he wasn't aware he'd had at all. He began moving his hips, slowly at first, working his cock in and out of Dorian's mouth in slow strokes. When he felt a hand brush his inner thigh, he spread his legs, pulling them up and apart. A single fingertip, slick with spit, touched him and he groaned. He rocked his hips downward as his thrusts into Dorian's mouth grew more desperate. Dorian pushed his finger inside and Jordan lost it. He cried out as he shoved his cock all the way into Dorian's mouth. Dorian put forth no resistance and he slowly withdrew his finger.

"I want," he said as he slowly licked the come from Jordan's cock, "to feel you, surrounding me, drawing out every last drop."

Jordan could only nod. Yes, yes. Please. Gods, yes. He watched as Dorian stood and walked over to a small shelf in the entertainment center. When Dorian returned, he set a small bottle of clear liquid on the coffee table. 

"As an elf, I'm assuming you require no sort of protection?" he asked as he uncapped the bottle. He squirted a generous amount onto two fingers and set the bottle back down. 

Jordan shook his head, unable--and unwilling--to take his eyes from the sight of Dorian stroking himself. His cock glistened and Jordan licked his lips. His body ached for that. He knew, somewhere deep in his mind, he knew Dorian would be different. He knew this was no casual fuck. And that single thought made him want Dorian even more.

Dorian knelt between Jordan's legs, one hand on the arm of the couch above Jordan's head and the other wrapped around his cock to position it. He rubbed the head over Jordan's hole, all the while smiling down at him with a knowing look in his eyes. Jordan drew his legs up more and tried to push down on Dorian's cock; Dorian pulled back with a teasing flick of his tongue over his lips. The heat of his breath seeped into Jordan's mouth, and deeper still, into his soul. 

"Please," Jordan whispered. 

"Say my name, Jordan." Dorian kissed him softly, then pulled back to look at him. He kept his cock in its precarious position, pressing in a fraction of an inch, then pulling away. Jordan whimpered and closed his eyes, arching his back, his neck, his entire body, to that touch.

"Dorian, please!"

With a sound that greatly resembled a growl, Dorian thrust his cock inside, leaving Jordan breathless. Sweet gods! Jordan dug his fingers into Dorian's shoulders as he wrapped his legs around Dorian's waist. He wanted him as deep as he could go. Dorian withdrew until only the tip remained inside, then thrust forward. Jordan cried out and his hips left the couch, driving Dorian deeper. 

The sensation of fullness, of sheer pleasure, was nearly overwhelming. Their bodies slid together, slick with sweat as Dorian's cock acted as a piston, thrusting in and out of Jordan's body in a maddening rhythm. And the heat. Dear gods, the heat between them was searing, burning straight through to Jordan's soul. He trailed his fingers over Dorian's back, marveling at the way his muscles moved beneath his slick skin. While one of Dorian's hands remained on the arm of the couch for leverage, his other slid down Jordan's side to grip his hip tightly as their movements became more frantic, more primal. 

Dorian kept his eyes closed and his forehead against Jordan's, and soon their breaths became indistinguishable. With every hard thrust Dorian made inside him, Jordan slipped a bit closer to the edge. He moved one hand to Dorian's waist and the other to cup the back of his neck. He pulled Dorian down into a kiss just as his body went rigid. Dorian growled into his mouth and a tiny pinprick followed. When Dorian began sucking on his tongue, Jordan cried out into their kiss as he came. Seconds later, Dorian made several hard, quick thrusts before groaning as he came as well. 

When he finally released Jordan from their kiss, Dorian dropped his head to Jordan's shoulder. Jordan struggled to catch his breath and unsurprisingly, found it difficult to move any part of his body.

"Holy shit," Jordan said. Dorian nodded and nuzzled deeper against his neck. Jordan slid his arms around Dorian's shoulders and closed his eyes. This was a mistake. He should have never done this. Once would never be enough for him now.

"I have to go," he said quietly. He swore he heard a sigh of regret, but he really had to leave.

"Will you be back?" Dorian lifted his head and looked down at him as he stroked Jordan's cheek with the backs of his fingers.

"I..." Jordan swallowed hard and closed his eyes. "I don't know. I just need to go right now."

Dorian nodded and pulled out, then sat back on his heels. Jordan couldn't bring himself to look at him, and Dorian simply watched him dress. 

"I had a lot of fun," Jordan said as he stood. "Really, I did."

"As did I."

"Yeah. Well, I'll be seeing you." Jordan turned away then and walked towards the door. It was the hardest thing he had ever done in his lifetime. When the door shut behind him--between them--he felt a tug somewhere within him, wanting desperately to go back.

"No," he said to himself. "This was a bad idea. Something isn't right. No matter how much you want him, Jordan." He sighed and started down the stairs, slipping back into the tireless throng of sweaty, dancing bodies. "Bad idea."



When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 04



Chapter Four

When the door closed between them, Dorian was left bewildered. He sat on the couch without a stitch of clothing on, still staring at the black door, hoping against hope that Jordan would come back. When two hours passed and the door remained closed, Dorian finally peeled himself off of the leather couch and shuffled into the bedroom, dazed and thoroughly confused. 

"What did I do, Lorik?" he whispered as he sat down on the bed. "What did I do wrong? I was so sure he was the one."

"Perhaps he is."

Dorian leaned over and rested his elbows on his knees as he cradled his head in his hands. "God, what did I do wrong?"

"Praying, Dorian? Now that's something I haven't seen you do in some time."

Dorian shook his head. "I can't do this, Lorik," he muttered. "I can't go on like this."

"Oh, Dorian..."

Dorian raised his head to see Lorik standing before him, in all his spectral beauty. Lorik smiled and reached out with translucent fingers to stroke through the lock of hair that had fallen over Dorian's face. 

"If I could take your pain away, you know I would do it."

"I know," Dorian whispered as he closed his eyes.

"One time was not enough, was it?"

Dorian shook his head. "He..." His words trailed off and he swallowed. "He's still with me, Lorik. I think he's been with me since the first moment I saw him." With the ghost of a touch to his chin, Dorian raised his head to look at Lorik.

"He will be back," Lorik said. "I don't know how I know, but trust me. He has been with you, and if memory serves me right, elves mate for life, Dorian."

Dorian wasn't sure then if the tears that fell were in response to Lorik's words, or the fact that Jordan was standing in the bedroom doorway. He had not heard the front door of the apartment open, but the look on Jordan's face told him that the elf had seen Lorik. And if Jordan had seen Lorik, then he had certainly realized how far gone Dorian was. Dorian opened his mouth to speak, but Jordan walked over and knelt down in front of him. He reached up and brushed a tear away from Dorian's cheek with his thumb. 

"I'm sorry," Jordan said. He looked away for a moment and closed his eyes. "I wasn't ready to admit to myself what happened between us. I never expected..."

"Yes?" Dorian said when Jordan trailed off.

"I never expected to feel anything," Jordan sighed. "For you."

Dorian remained silent for several minutes, unsure of what to say. Hell, he wasn't sure if he was just hearing what he wanted to hear. When Jordan looked back at him, Dorian felt an ache well up inside him. He reached out, wanting to touch him, to feel the warmth of Jordan's skin against his own, but he hesitated, too afraid for even such a simple touch. As if sensing his uncertainty, Jordan moved closer and placed his hand over Dorian's, bringing it up to cup his face gently. 

"Jordan, I..."

"Shh," Jordan murmured as he rose up on his knees to bring their faces level with each other. "Just tell me if I'm doing the right thing," he said. "Or if I'm throwing myself at someone who doesn't feel the same."

Dorian looked into those green eyes and felt himself falling deeper into an elven spell, one he had no hope of escaping. Truth be told, he didn't want to escape; he only wanted to drown himself in Jordan Shields. He slid his fingers deeper into Jordan's hair and pulled him closer until their lips brushed together. 

"The only way to know the answer to that," he whispered, "is to look into yourself. Do you want this, Jordan? Do you want me?"

Jordan hesitated for only a brief moment, then nodded. He tilted his head slightly and pressed a soft kiss to Dorian's lips. "If I didn't," he murmured, "I would have stayed away." The movements of his lips as he spoke brushed across Dorian's, causing Dorian's breath to catch. Jordan threaded his fingers through Dorian's hair and moved until their bodies were barely touching. "I didn't make it to the front door."

When Jordan's tongue touched to his lips, Dorian opened for him, taking Jordan's answer for what it was. He slid his arm around Jordan's waist, pulling him close as their kiss deepened. He had no idea how Jordan would react to his true nature, but at this moment in time, it was something Dorian refused to think about. Jordan was back, and in his arms; they would have time enough for secrets later.

"I need you," Dorian murmured as Jordan eased him onto his back. 

"Yes, need."

Jordan straddled him, sliding his hands over Dorian's sides, then his chest, his fingertips brushing over Dorian's nipples. Dorian arched into his touch, breathless and already shaking. 

"Gods, you're beautiful," Jordan whispered. "Want to taste you, Dorian." He knelt between Dorian's legs and began a slow descent, kissing and nibbling his way down Dorian's body.

"Oh, God." Dorian threaded his fingers through Jordan's hair, torn between pulling him up for another kiss, and pushing him lower. He needed this. He needed Jordan.

Jordan continued his kisses, and when he reached Dorian's cock, he slipped his hand beneath it. Dorian watched breathlessly as Jordan slid his tongue slowly up his length. When Jordan's lips circled the head, Dorian fell back onto the bed and thrust his hips up, driving his cock into Jordan's mouth. Jordan put up no resistance, and began sliding his lips up and down the shaft, rolling his tongue over the hard, smooth surface.

Dorian gasped and tightened his hold in Jordan's hair, pulling him down and pushing him back up as he fucked the elf's mouth with slow strokes. The heat surrounding him was exquisite; pure, searing heat. It was like nothing he had ever experienced. 

When he felt a slick finger press against him, he spread his legs further apart, giving Jordan as much access as possible. As Jordan's finger slid inside him, Dorian groaned, rocking his hips in an effort to drive the finger deeper. Another finger slid inside with the first, then Jordan spread them apart. Dorian's hips left the bed entirely and he shoved his cock down the elf's throat. His body shook and he knew he wouldn't last much longer like this, not when he really wanted Jordan buried completely inside him. 

"Now, Jordan," Dorian pleaded. "Inside me. Please."

Pulling off of his cock, Jordan looked up at Dorian. His emerald eyes were clouded with lust. With need. He sat up and spit in his palm, then stroked his cock to slick it up. Dorian bit at his lower lip as Jordan removed his fingers and leaned over, positioning his cock. 

"Please..."

Dorian's breath left him completely when Jordan gripped his thighs, pushing his legs up and apart. With the head of his cock pressed to Dorian's hole, all it took was a firm thrust of Jordan's hips. Dorian cried out as the full length of Jordan's cock impaled him, hurling him over the edge in a sudden rush. He clung to Jordan's arms, digging his fingers into his skin as his body tightened around Jordan, sucking him in deeper with every contraction of his muscles. 

"Fuck me!" He was begging now, desperate for more. Jordan was quick to oblige and began thrusting in and out, the hard rhythm of his hips driving his cock deeper inside with every stroke. 

"Come for me, Dorian," Jordan panted. 

Wrapping his fingers tightly around his cock, Dorian started jerking off, the movements of his fist matching Jordan's unrelenting thrusts inside him. Yes! Yes! Harder...faster... 

As if reading the thoughts he could not voice, Jordan sped up his strokes. Dorian gripped the back of Jordan's neck with his free hand, and without losing the frantic pace their bodies set, he crushed Jordan's mouth with his. With a tiny pinprick, Jordan's blood washed over Dorian's tongue, setting his body on fire and shoving him over the edge. He screamed into Jordan's mouth as he came, his cock pulsing hard in his hand. Moments later, Jordan groaned. With several hard strokes, he deepened their kiss as his cock pumped his release deep inside Dorian's body. 

When they both began to come down from their mutual highs, Jordan rolled off and pulled Dorian close, wrapping his arms around him. Dorian nuzzled against him, breathless and sated. And happy. He smiled as he closed his eyes, hearing Lorik laugh and smile in his mind. 

"Something tells me," Jordan said, breaking the peaceful silence, "that my life has just gotten a hell of a lot more interesting."

Dorian chuckled and angled his head to look up at Jordan. "Is that a good thing?"

"Yes, it is." Jordan smiled and stroked Dorian's cheek with the backs of his fingers. 

"Can I ask you a question?"

"Of course."

Dorian sighed, wondering how to word what he wanted to ask. He finally decided on the direct approach. "Do elves really mate for life?"

Jordan remained silent for a moment, then laughed. "Technically, yes," he said. "But not all do at this rate."

"Oh." Dorian closed his eyes and nestled closer, hoping this time would be an exception, but unable to voice the fear that it might not be.

Jordan slipped his hand under Dorian's chin, tilting his head back up. "Why?"

"No reason." Dorian shrugged in an effort to appear nonchalant about it.

"Dorian."

The tone of Jordan's voice told Dorian he wasn't buying it. "Okay, okay. I guess I just...just hoped that maybe...this time would be different."

Jordan smiled slowly and gripped Dorian's chin gently, sliding his thumb over his bottom lip. "Who is to say it's not?"

Dorian opened his mouth to answer, but Jordan's tongue slipped inside, silencing him. With a tug from Jordan, Dorian rolled on top of him without breaking their kiss. With Jordan's hands on his hips, Dorian began rocking back and forth, rubbing their still-slick cocks together. Before he could stop it, Dorian found himself growing hard again. Jordan broke the kiss and grinned as he shifted Dorian, causing his cock to slip between the cheeks of Dorian's ass. 

"Jordan..." 

"Gods, I want to bury myself inside you again," Jordan groaned. He rocked his hips up, the motion causing Dorian's breath to catch.

"Yes, yes...please." Dorian leaned up enough to grip Jordan's cock, then slid back down, slowly driving it deep inside him. His head fell back with a throaty groan.

The feel of Jordan stretching him again was exquisite. Dorian began moving, sliding back and forth; Jordan's hands on his hips guiding him. Jordan's cock slid in and out, driving Dorian closer to the edge quicker than he had expected, or wanted. As if sensing how close he was, Jordan's grip on him tightened and he sped up their movements. He started thrusting in and out as Dorian leaned forward, giving him better leverage. Every stroke in left Dorian breathless and teetering on the edge. 

"Oh, fuck," Jordan panted. "Oh, gods. Dorian!"

Dorian didn't have to touch himself this time. The second Jordan slammed inside him and came, Dorian cried out as his own cock throbbed, coating Jordan's chest once again. Dorian fell forward, panting and heedless of the sticky mess between them. Jordan chuckled and stroked his fingers down his spine.

"Don't know about you, but I need a shower."

Dorian nodded, but was reluctant to move. The necessity of a shower, however, won the battle and he groaned as he slid off of Jordan to stand on shaky legs. Jordan was behind him immediately, catching him before he could lose his balance.

"Come on," Jordan laughed. "Let's get cleaned up. I'm starving."

That one statement made Dorian's heart sink to his feet. How the hell was he going to explain things? How was he going to tell Jordan what he really was, without scaring him off? He couldn't lose him. Not now.

* * *

"You sure you aren't hungry?" 

Dorian shook his head and watched as Jordan devoured the burger. Truth was, he was hungry, but not for the ground flesh of a cow. Every time Jordan looked away, Dorian found himself staring at the juncture of his throat, where his shoulder met his neck. That...was what he wanted, the precious liquid that flowed within those veins. He licked his lips to wet them, but stopped when Jordan pointed the straw of his cup in his direction. He resisted the urge to throw up; his stomach wasn't used to normal food or drink.

"You look pale," Jordan said. "You sure you're okay?"

"Yes, I'm fine," Dorian chuckled. "Stop worrying about me."

Jordan shrugged. "Can't help it, I guess." The look in his eyes betrayed his nonchalant demeanor, and it warmed Dorian from the inside out. 

"Did you get enough to eat?"

Jordan nodded, making a sound of acknowledgement as his mouth was full. He swallowed and smiled. "Yes, thank you. You really didn't have to buy me dinner, you know."

Dorian smiled and, much to his surprise, felt himself blush slightly. "It was my pleasure," he said. "Although next time, I insist on something more substantial than McDonalds." Jordan leaned over the table and kissed him softly, effectively taking his breath away.

"And next time," Jordan whispered, "I pay."

Dorian started to protest, but Jordan's finger on his lips stopped him. When Jordan pulled his finger away and sat back down, Dorian's smile widened. "We'll see."

With a chuckle, Jordan shook his head and stood. "I need to get going. It's already midnight and I have a class in the morning."

"You're in school?"

"No. I'm a part-time instructor at the college. I teach a class on Elven History."

Dorian stood with him and picked up the tray. "I see, very interesting."

"How about you come by tomorrow afternoon and we'll have a late lunch?"

"I..." Dorian blew out a breath, acting as if he were thinking of his schedule. "I can't tomorrow. However, tomorrow evening is free. Come by the club? You won't ever have to pay a dime for anything there."

Jordan seemed to think on it for a moment, pursing his lips. Dorian resisted the sudden urge to kiss him. "Sure. I can do that."

Giving into the urge, Dorian leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to the elf's lips. "Wonderful. I will see you then."

He watched Jordan leave, giving him a wave as he headed outside. Dorian left a few minutes later and made it back to the club just as the last customers were leaving. As he started up the stairs, he nodded discreetly to Josef. A few minutes after he closed the apartment door, it opened again. The look on Josef's face was one of worry.

"You're pale," he commented. He ran his hands over Dorian's shoulders, then up to cup his face. "Your new beau doesn't have any idea, does he?"

Dorian shook his head. "Not yet."

"Dorian," Josef sighed. "This isn't something you can hide forever, especially from the man you love."

"How did you know?" Dorian asked as his eyes widened.

Josef chuckled and brushed his hair from his neck. "Oh, come on, Dorian. I know you." He cupped the back of Dorian's neck and pulled him close. "Now drink."

With the hunger growing worse, Dorian wasted no time. He brushed a kiss to Josef's throat before biting down. As the sweet, rich offering flowed over his tongue, he moaned softly. Josef's hold on him tightened, enveloping him in warmth as he fed. 

"Dorian, have you seen-"

Dorian pulled away abruptly, barely remembering to lick the wound closed. He spun around quickly and felt his blood run cold. Josef's hold on him tightened considerably. "Carl, I-"

"What the fuck is going on?" 

Carl looked from Josef to Dorian, and only then did Dorian realize he had missed a drop of blood on his lip. He licked it away as he said, "Carl, please. I can explain."

"Oh, fuck no," Carl said with a dark laugh. He shook his head as he inched his way towards them. "A vampire. You're a motherfucking vampire." He reached out and grabbed Josef's arm, jerking him away from Dorian before Josef could say a word.

"Carl, stop!" Josef pulled away and glared at his brother. "He has never harmed anyone. He doesn't kill when he feeds, and he only feeds from the willing."

"Yeah, right. Come on." Carl grabbed him again and shoved him towards the door. "No fucking way in Hell I'm going to sit by and watch a goddamned bloodsucker drain my little brother." He kept an iron grip on Josef and shot Dorian a dark, hateful look before slamming the door behind them.

Dorian dropped to his knees, stunned and terrified. Being ten years older, Carl had a strong hold over Josef, and Josef's life. And now, he knew the truth. Dorian closed his eyes and shuddered. He had to get Josef away from Carl, and then he had to leave town. Quickly. And, oh, God...what about Jordan?

"Perhaps next time you will listen to me."

"Not now, Lorik," Dorian grumbled. He stood slowly and looked around. "I don't have time for a lecture."

"I knew nothing good would come of hiring that bastard. Where are you going to go?"

Dorian walked into the bedroom and ran his fingers through his hair, sighing and feeling quite lost all of a sudden. "I don't know. Back to Rome, I imagine."

"And Jordan? What of him?"

Dorian sank down onto the bed, where only a few hours before, he had lain with the most beautiful creature in existence. "I..." He sighed and shook his head. "I don't know, Lorik."

"I don't see you leaving him, Dorian."

"Yes, well, I don't see him uprooting and moving to Italy, either." Dorian fell back onto the bed with a pained groan. How had life come to this? In the blink of an eye, everything had turned upside down.



When Darkness Falls Pt. 1 Ch. 05



Chapter Five

Jordan tried to keep his mind on the lesson, but every time he looked at the class, he saw Dorian. Every voice was Dorian's, and on more than one occasion, he had drawn a blank when someone asked a question. About his own damn race. By the end of class, he was a wreck and a half. He slumped down into his chair as the class left, and looked up to see Matt staring at him with an amused grin.

"What?"

"Oh, nothing," Matt said. "So, when are you going to introduce us?"

Jordan looked at him like he had lost his mind. "Who?"

Matt lifted a dark eyebrow and gave him one of his famous 'give me a break' looks. "Your new boyfriend."

"My new...? Oh!" Jordan sat up in the chair and began shoving papers and books into the bag in front of him. "He's, umm..."

"It's not like you to be anything less than articulate, Jordan."

He looked up and glared at Matt. "It's Dorian Baptiste, all right?" 

"Whoa! You're fucking the owner of Elixir?!"

Jordan groaned as Jessica swept in, Parker hot on her heels. "Yes," he grumbled.

"You don't seem thrilled about it," Parker said. 

"On the contrary," Jordan said as he stood, "I'm beyond fucking happy, but I've never been one to brag about my sex life." He made his way out of the building and the others followed.

"So?" Jessica prodded. "How long has it been?"

"About..." Jordan looked at his watch. "About a day now."

"You're kidding." 

He looked up at her and shook his head as he unlocked the door of his truck. "Nope. Met him last night, he fucked me, I fucked him, had a late dinner, went home."

"You going back tonight?" Parker asked him as Jordan climbed into the truck.

"Damn right, I am." Jordan started the truck and buckled up. "Don't wait up for me either." He winked at them and pulled away, leaving all three of them standing in the parking lot. He wanted to get home and get cleaned up. He was determined to look his best for Dorian tonight.

As soon as he got home, he tossed his keys on the counter and set his bag down before heading for the bedroom. He rummaged through his closet, looking for something...perfect. Then he found it. It was the last remnant he had from his life in the forest, and as he held up in front of himself as he looked in the full-length mirror, he smiled. Dorian would love it.

He tossed the shimmering green outfit on the bed, then went into the bathroom to take a quick shower. One of the advantages to being an elf was the lack of body hair. He was bare, save for the hair on his head and his eyebrows. And the feel of Dorian's hands sliding up his smooth skin... Gods, he needed Dorian, and bad. He started the water for his shower, but just before stepping in, the phone rang. He grumbled and rushed back into the bedroom, catching it before the answering machine could pick up. 

"Hello?"

"Ah, I knew I had the right number."

That sexy voice belonged to one man; Jordan smiled. "Dorian."

"Listen, love. Something has come up. I need to leave town for a bit."

Jordan felt his heart sink to the pit of his stomach. "You're leaving me."

"No! Oh, God, no, Jordan. Anything but that."

"Okay..." Jordan prodded. He laid down on his back, his shower forgotten.

"I called...because I want you to go with me."

Jordan remained silent, unsure of what to say. "Um. Go with you? Where to and for how long, are we talking?"

"The where, is Rome. For how long? I can't say, love."

"What's going on? Are you, like, on the run or something?" Jordan joked in an effort to lighten the mood. Dorian's next words crushed that attempt.

"Of a sort."

Jordan sighed. "Dorian, what's going on?"

"Hold on, love."

Jordan grumbled as he heard the mouthpiece on Dorian's end being covered up. He heard muffled voices, one of which was definitely Dorian's and he didn't sound entirely happy. When he came back, the tone of his voice confirmed Jordan's suspicions.

"Jordan, I need you to come to the club."

"I was going to, but I need a shower. Give me-"

"No. I need you here now, Jordan. Please."

Jordan started to ask what the rush was, but a knock on his front door interrupted his train of thought. "One sec. Someone's at the door." He set the phone down and grabbed his robe. As he slipped it on, he could hear Dorian's voice, rising in volume as if he were trying to get his attention. When he picked the phone back up, he said, "hold on. Just let me answer the door and then we can talk."

"Jordan, no!"

Ignoring Dorian, Jordan opened the door, the phone still held to his ear. He was surprised to see the manager for Elixir standing on the other side. 

"Can I help you?"

The man looked around Jordan's shoulders, then at him. "You're Jordan, right?"

Jordan shifted nervously, and whispered, "shh," into the phone. Dorian was near pleading. "Yes, I'm Jordan."

The man held out his hand. "I'm Carl. I was the manager of Elixir until about an hour ago. You're dating the owner, Dorian Baptiste, aren't you?"

Jordan's mouth dropped open. "I don't see how that's any of your business, but yes, I am."

"Knowing I'm protecting someone before something can happen makes it worthwhile," Carl said.

"What the hell are you talking about?"

"Jordan!"

"Dorian, just wait a damn minute." Jordan looked at Carl dubiously. "Now what's going on?"

"Dorian Baptiste is a vampire, Jordan. He's been fucking my brother and feeding from him for only God knows how long. He'll do the same thing to you if you don't get away from him."

Jordan nearly dropped the phone. "What?" He shook his head. "You're lying. No fucking way in hell."

Carl sighed impatiently. "Damn it! I walked in on them, Jordan! Dorian even had the audacity to lick the blood off of his lips in front of me. My little brother's blood!"

Jordan backed away, shaking his head. "No." He gripped the edge of the door tightly. "Get away from my door, or I will call the cops." With that, he slammed the door.

"Jordan, please..."

"Dorian, we need to talk."

* * * 

Jordan couldn't even bear to look Dorian in the eyes. He stared at the floor, his head cradled in his hands, as Dorian sat across from him. The only thing he could do was shake his head.

"Jordan, I'm sorry."

Jordan closed his eyes. "I was falling in love with you," he muttered. "And you kept something like this from me."

When he felt a hand touch his shoulder, he jumped up, wanting to get away from the man--the vampire--he had fallen in love with. He backed away from Dorian, closing his eyes to avoid seeing the pained look on the vampire's face. 

"Jordan, please," Dorian pleaded. "Let me explain."

"Explain what?! That you suck people's blood? That you were fucking someone else?" Jordan stopped and his shoulders dropped. He hadn't realized that it hurt more to find out Dorian was seeing someone else. Not until now.

Dorian sat slumped on the floor, his back against the couch where Jordan had been sitting. When he spoke, it was almost in a whisper. "Is that the real problem? That I was with Josef?"

Jordan sighed and sank down into the recliner. He had no idea what to say anymore. He simply nodded.

"Oh, Jordan." Dorian moved onto his hands and knees, and crawled over to the recliner. Within his eyes, Jordan could see the plea; Dorian begging him to understand. "Love, please," Dorian whispered. "Please let me explain."

"Fine." Jordan crossed his arms protectively over his chest and glared down at Dorian. Yet despite the anger and pain within him, he could not look at Dorian long without softening his features. He still loved him.

Dorian rose up on his knees and placed both hands on the arm of the recliner. From such a position, Jordan mused the vampire looked like a puppy begging for attention...and love. A bit of the anger slipped away.

"I love you," Dorian said. "But I was so afraid of losing you, that I didn't tell you what I am. I only took a tiny amount each time, only enough to taste you; never enough to feed. But how I wanted so badly to." He reached up, touching Jordan's face lightly, tentatively. Jordan closed his eyes. "I only fed from Josef when I needed it."

"And the sex?"

When Dorian sighed and pulled his hand away, Jordan felt a twinge of deep pain, as if part of him left as well. 

"When I feed, it's a choice: pleasure, or pain. Josef has always chosen pleasure, except...except the last time. He was so worried about me when I came back from taking you to dinner, that he offered to feed me without sex. He knew I needed it."

Jordan felt anger at himself begin to well up in the pit of his stomach. Dorian had been hungry then, but had denied himself the chance to feed, only for his benefit. "Oh, gods...Dorian..." He opened his eyes and met Dorian's terrified gaze. 

"Please," Dorian begged in a whisper, "don't leave me. I need you, Jordan. I love you."

Jordan wasn't sure what made the difference then: the desperation he saw in Dorian's eyes, or the image of Dorian literally starving while he ate. Whichever it was, it hurt, and it hurt deep. Jordan slid off of the chair, settling onto his knees beside Dorian. He reached out and touched Dorian's cheek, stroking his thumb slowly over his lips. How could he deny the man he loved something as vital as nourishment? He could he ever deny Dorian anything?

"Make me one promise."

"Anything, love. I'll do anything."

Jordan smiled slowly and gripped Dorian's chin, pulling him closer. "No one else but me, Dorian." Dorian looked momentarily confused. Jordan leaned forward and kissed him softly. "When you feed, you only feed from me."

Dorian's mouth fell open and Jordan chuckled softly. "Are...are you serious? You're not...leaving me?"

Jordan wrapped his arms around Dorian and sat back, pulling Dorian onto his lap. "No. I'm not leaving you," he whispered against Dorian's hair. "I don't think I could live without you, Dorian."

"Love..." Dorian's arms wrapped tightly around Jordan, as if he was afraid to let him go. "I'm so sorry I didn't tell you. I promise, I swear; no one but you."

Closing his eyes, Jordan kissed Dorian's hair. "And Josef?"

"He knows already," Dorian said, his voice muffled as he burrowed against Jordan's neck. "He only wants me to be happy."

"Are you?"

Dorian nodded. "Yes, love. Very happy, especially now."

Jordan took a deep breath, readying himself to ask the next question which need to be asked. "Are you hungry now?"

Dorian fell silent; even his movements stopped. A few minutes later, he nodded slowly. Jordan pulled him away enough to see his face, and was surprised to see Dorian's cheek streaked with tears. He wiped one away as it fell. Dorian closed his eyes and nuzzled into his touch. 

"Then feed," Jordan said, brushing his hair away and tipping his head to the side. Dorian looked hesitant and Jordan slid his fingers through his hair, pulling Dorian's face closer to his throat. "Please, Dorian."

Dorian stopped, pulling back to look at him. "Pain...or pleasure?" He bit at the corner of his bottom lip, revealing the tip of a sharply-pointed tooth.

Jordan reached up and brushed his finger over Dorian's lips, then slipped it inside his mouth. Dorian's eyes closed and his mouth opened with a sigh. Curiosity being a strong elven trait, Jordan touched his finger to the point of Dorian's canine, and was met with a swift prick. His breath caught as Dorian moaned, sucking on his finger to taste the small drop of blood on the tip. Jordan groaned as he felt himself grow hard. 

"Dorian..." he whispered breathlessly.

"Yes, love," Dorian murmured, releasing his finger and easing him onto his back. "Yes." He moved down, brushing soft, sweet kisses over Jordan's skin, setting every inch of him on fire.

Threading his fingers through Dorian's hair, Jordan arched his body into Dorian's touch, closing his eyes with a soft sigh. As Dorian's kisses continued their descent, his hand reached for Jordan's. Jordan took it, lacing their fingers together tightly just as his jeans fell open. He groaned as Dorian's breath warmed him, heating his flesh. Then those lips slid down his shaft and Jordan gasped, thrusting his hips up. 

"Dorian, please!" He squeezed Dorian's fingers, desperate for more. "I need you."

Dorian pulled away and slid back up Jordan's body to capture his mouth in a devouring kiss. Jordan lifted his hips and released Dorian's hand to shove his pants down. He kicked his shoes off, then kicked his pants to the side. When Dorian's palm touched him, he rocked his hips up, sliding his cock across Dorian's hand. 

"Need you, love." 

"Yes...please, Dorian, yes."

Dorian pulled away long enough to take his clothes off, then reached down to pull Jordan's shirt over his head. "So beautiful," he murmured, claiming Jordan's mouth as he knelt between his legs. He stretched his body over Jordan's, bringing their cocks together, sliding alongside each other. Jordan moaned into their kiss and draped his arms around Dorian's neck, his body trembling from the friction between them. 

"More," he pleaded. "Inside me, Dorian...please."

Dorian broke their kiss long enough to spit in his palm, then stroked himself, slicking his cock. He rubbed the head over Jordan's entrance and when Jordan wrapped his legs around Dorian's waist, Dorian pushed inside him. Jordan's breath left him as Dorian's cock settled completely, deeply inside him. He closed his eyes, holding Dorian close as they began to move, slowly, gently. 

Reclaiming his mouth, Dorian slid his arms beneath Jordan's shoulders, enveloping him in blessed heat as their bodies moved together, sliding against each other, in and out. Every stroke left Jordan breathless, his desperate whimpers drowned in Dorian's sweet kiss. 

When Dorian broke the kiss slowly, he began thrusting in and out with quicker, harder strokes. The sounds of their panting breaths, their moans of pleasure, filled the room. As his body began to tighten, nearing the edge of his release, Jordan gripped Dorian's head and pulled him down towards his neck.

"Please...Dorian. Do it now..." He gasped as Dorian's cock hit that spot deep within him, and seconds later he cried out. As Dorian's fangs sank deep into his throat, Jordan shook beneath him, tears flowing down his cheeks as his orgasm ripped through him in a heated rush. 

A split second later, Dorian growled and thrust hard, driving his cock deep as he came. Jordan held him tight, the tremors of his own release still radiating through his body. Dorian shook above him, then pulled away from his neck, licking the wounds softly before capturing his mouth once more in a soul-devouring kiss.