Um...next time I say I'm going to update quickly, just remember: this is a dirty, filthy lie. I am terribly sorry for the wait. And if anyone is still here, then I am mighty impressed ._. On the bright side, long chapter! Hurrah! It's not edited yet, but I'll do that later. I just wanted to get this little bugger posted. So...enjoy!!

Chapter Five: Frostbite

When I wake up, I realise Sage is gone. At first, I’m alarmed. But after a minute, I realise I’m being idiot. It’s Monday, isn’t it? Obviously Sage has a job. They probably all do. I bet I’m alone in the house.

Warily, I step out of the room, holding my breath. I don’t hear anyone.

The stress leaves my body, and I slump against the wall.

Alone. I’m actually alone.

A hand rubs across my eyes as I let out a soft laugh. I can’t believe how much of a relief it is to finally not be around anyone.

The first thing I do is take a shower. Although I’m alone in the house, I still lock the door behind me. That run-in with Sei last night has just upped my paranoia.

My pants fall to the floor in the corner, the only article of clothing I was wearing. I pad over to the shower-stall, leaning in to turn on the faucet. Hot water splashes against the smooth white floor, and I make a face. I really hate water.

Switching the flow of liquid to the showerhead, I step into the stall, shutting the rippled glass door. My displeasure grows as I’m instantly soaked.

Guess I’d better get this over with quickly.

Reaching for the first bottle of shampoo I see, I realise my bandages are coming off.

I sigh.

I really can’t win.

The bandages peel off easily, and I lean out of the shower to drop them into the garbage, before turning my attention back to my hair. I manage to keep the bubbles out of my eyes, but the herbal scent makes me sneeze. The body wash is worse.

Ugh, citrus.

I shudder, rinsing off, then quickly hop out of the shower. I turn off the water and grab a towel, wrapping myself in the fluffy white fabric. Thank God that’s over.

The bandages on my knees peel off as I’m drying, and I sigh. I bet I’m gonna start bleeding again.

Naked and only slightly damp, I grab my pyjama pants again, having nothing else to wear. Even in an empty house, I shouldn’t wander around in the buff; I don’t know when someone’s going to come back.

Pants back on, I glance at the mirror. Biting my lip, I shuffle over to it, morbid curiosity compelling me to look at myself. The mark on my neck is still there. It doesn’t look as bad as two days ago, but it’s still ugly. My fingers lightly run over it, feeling the slightly puckered skin.

I think I’ve figured out what Sei is…but I really hope I’m wrong.

And Neve says I’m the dangerous one.

Dragging my gaze away from the reflective glass, I run my tongue over my teeth, grimacing at their fuzzy texture. I wonder if I can find a toothbrush…

A few minutes of rummaging under the sink produces a still packaged brush, which is quickly removed and covered in toothpaste. I feel much more human (oh, irony) after my teeth are clean.

Placing the damp brush on the vanity, I move to the door and leave the steamy bathroom. The hallway’s still quiet, so I head downstairs, feeling more relaxed. My stomach growls suddenly, and I realise I haven’t really eaten since I got here, except for last night’s fish.

I can’t believe they’ve managed to keep me here for two days.

The first thing I notice is a note sitting on the island. Curious, I pick it up, brown eyes flicking over the words.

Kit-

Faolan, Felix, and I are at work. Feel free to eat whatever you find in the kitchen. There’s leftovers in the fridge. You can borrow some of my clothes, if you’d like, or ask Neve for some. He’s more your size, I think.

Have a good day and see you when we get home!

-Sage

(P.S. Sei and Neve are going grocery shopping, so if they’re gone when you get up, they should be back soon.)

My eyes widen in dismay. Shit, Sei and Neve don’t have work?

It’s time for me to go back into hiding.

Just as I’m turning to leave the kitchen, I hear the front door open, and the murmur of voices. I freeze, still in the kitchen.

Shitshitshitshit…

I look around wildly, trying to find a way to get out of here without either of them seeing me. But before I can even begin to plan my escape, Sei and Neve appear in the doorway. They don’t notice me, both too caught up in a conversation. I’m shocked to see a wide, happy smile on Neve’s face.

I think I can see the attraction now.

Of course, that smile disappears when Neve turns his head, warm grey eyes becoming steely as soon as they land on me. I shiver, stepping back.

I’mgonnadieI’mgonnadieI’mgonnadie…

“Oh, hey, Kit. Didn’t think you’d be up.”

My eyes snap to Sei, who is smiling pleasantly at me.

Pleasantly.

Nothing predatory.

I stare.

It’s a trick. Has to be. He’s just trying to get me to let my guard down so he can jump me.

My eyes flick back to the glaring Neve.

He won’t save me.

“You eaten anything yet?”

My attention flies back to Sei, body stiff.

“I, uh, no…I have to…go get dressed.”

I start edging my way out of kitchen, nails digging into my palms.

Sei raises an eyebrow. “Where you getting the clothes from?”

I’m almost at the doorway…

“Um, Sage said I could borrow some of his,” I reply, voice weaker than I’d like.

That makes him laugh. “His stuff won’t fit you. Borrow some of Neve’s.”

My wide eyes fly to Neve, who looks less than pleased with the suggestion. He’s still putting away groceries, but his cold eyes are on me.

I shake my head, shifting away. “Uh, no, it’s okay.”

Sei rolls his eyes, walking towards me and grabbing my arm. “Don’t be an idiot. Neve’ll lend you some stuff.” A glance over his shoulder with a bright grin. “Won’t you, Neve?”

The other man stares at him for a minute before rolling his eyes, and muttering, “Whatever.”

Satisfied, Sei turns back to me, a wide grin revealing sharp teeth. “There ya go. Now, let’s go do something about your knees.”

It takes me a minute to realise what he means, and by that time, I’ve already been pulled out into the hall. The taller man doesn’t need to make much of an effort to drag me along.

“Hey, wait,” I object, tugging at the grip he has on my arm. “I can take care of myself.”

“It’s no problem,” he replies, happily ignoring my unwillingness to go with him.

“Seriously, I can handle a bandage,” I insist, already resigning myself to the fact that I won’t win.

He doesn’t answer, and in a few minutes we’re in the bathroom, where I’m pushed down on the edge of the tub. This is a familiar position.

My face instantly flushes at the memory of what happened last time I was sitting here.

Sei reaches into the vanity, pulling out some new bandages before walking over to me. I cringe back, staring up at him. He just raises an eyebrow, kneeling down in front of me.

“Problem, Kit?”

I quickly shake my head, eyes wide, watching as he rolls up my pants to bare my knees. Dark eyes flicking up to meet mine, he leans in, tongue flicking out. I stare, transfixed, as it touches my skin, carefully and methodically licking up the blood. His eyelids flutter, a soft moan escaping his mouth before he moves to my other knee. I bite my lip, nails digging into the side of the bathtub.

This shouldn’t feel so good…

“Y-you’re a vampire.”

Sei pulls back, looking up at me with a smirk.

“And what finally clued you in?”

I gulp, suddenly more scared than I was before. I try to shift away, but am blocked in by his arms.

“Let me out,” I whisper, voice shaky.

One of Sei’s fingers reaches up, gently tracing the bite-mark on my neck. I flinch.

“This marks you as my property, you know,” he remarks idly. “Any other vampire who sees you will know you’re taken.”

“I’m not your property,” I hiss, body stiff.

His eyes glimmer with amusement. “Vampires are very territorial about what is ours. And you are mine. If anyone but me or our lovely husbands lays so much as a finger on you…” He leans forward, lips brushing my ear. “…I will tear them limb from limb.”

My heart’s pounding in my chest as a shiver races down my spine. I can’t move away from him, and God, his words are getting to me. I don’t remember the last time someone’s actually wanted me…

But vampires are skilled at seduction, aren’t they?

Head bowed, I force his words out of my head, panting. I can’t listen to him. Vampires are liars.

I start when he suddenly moves, expecting the worst, but he’s just grabbing the bandages. Swift hands wrap up my knees before rolling my pant-legs back down. He lifts my hands, tracing the palms.

“Looks like you’re all healed up here.”

I shiver, nodding in agreement.

He raises my hands to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to each palm. I hold my breath, watching him. Grey eyes rising to peer at me through his hair, he uses the appendages to pull me forward as he leans up, easily catching my mouth with his. I gasp softly, which lets him slip his tongue into my mouth. And despite everything, I moan, pressing closer.

I really am a slut.

One of his cold hands slides around me, pressing against my bare skin. My back arches away, a surprised sound catching in my throat. The moan grows louder as he drags his nails down my spine, the sound morphing into a rumbling purr.

“That’s an interesting sound,” he murmurs, nipping at my throat.

I try to stop the purr, but can’t, not with the way he’s touching me. I nuzzle his soft hair, gasping when his hands slip past my waistband, fingers sliding lower…lower…

“I got the brat some clothes,” announces a cold voice from the door.

I wrench back from Sei, panting and wide-eyed. I stare over his shoulder at Neve, face instantly flushing.

What the hell was I just doing?!

Neve glowers at us, arms crossed.

“You done yet? Or should I step out while you finish fucking him, Sei?”

The vampire rolls his eyes, standing up.

“I was just finishing up. Meet you downstairs when you’re done.”

He leaves the bathroom, meaning I’m alone with Neve.

I stare at him, heart pounding.

He doesn’t say anything, just quickly walks forward, grabs my arm, and hauls me to my feet. I stumble as he drags me from the bathroom and down the hall.

“Wh-where are we going?” I stammer. Oh, God, he’s gonna murder me. He’ll hack my body into little pieces and hide me in the walls.

He shoves open one of the bedroom doors, pushing me in. I stumble, crashing into the bed.

“Get dressed,” he orders, leaning against the shut door with crossed arms.

“Fucker,” I mutter, straightening with a wince.

There’s a neat pile of clothing on the bed, apparently meant for me. I carefully unfold it, eyeing the white halter-neck tank top and jeans.

I glance at him questioningly, and he shrugs.

“Complements your skin.”

I blink. Wasn’t expecting that.

I pull on the tank-top first before sliding off the pyjama pants and shaking out the jeans. A pair of boxer-briefs fall out. Blushing, I tentatively pull them on before quickly dragging on the jeans, wincing when the fabric brushes against my bandaged knees.

Good Lord, I’m wearing Neve’s underwear.

Picking up the pyjama pants, I turn around, awkwardly shoving my fingers through my hair.

“Um…what should I do with these?”

He holds out a hand, so I step forward, pants held out. Suddenly, I find myself pinned to the wall, icy lips pressed against mine, hungry and demanding. I gasp in surprise before moaning when a leg’s shoved between mine, my hands gripping Neve’s arms.

After a minute, he pulls away, sneering at my panting and flushed form.

“God, you really will put out for anyone, won’t you?” He steps back, pulling the door open and disappearing.

I groan, covering my face with my hands. Shame shoots through me and I feel sick.

“Bastard.”

Sighing, I leave the bedroom, heading into the hall. I knew I hated Neve for a reason.

“All dressed?”

I jump, shooting a glare at Sei, who’s leaning against the wall with a smirk.

“What does it look like?” I snap, stalking past him.

His eyebrows shoot up. “What’s got you so pissy?”

“Just your asshole of a husband,” I growl, shoving the hair out of my eyes.

“He’s yours too,” Sei reminds me, grinning widely. I notice his fangs this time, which sends a shiver down my spine.

“Not by choice,” I retort, once again heading for the stairs.

Suddenly, I find myself pinned to the wall, Sei’s fingers biting into my arms. His dark eyes are narrowed, lips pulled back.

“Would you stop being such a bitch already?” he hisses, hair sliding over his shoulders.

My heart’s pounding, eyes wide. I manage to drag up my voice, spitting out: “Would you stop trying to fuck me already?”

His face takes on a predatory edge. Oh shit.

One of his hands slides into my hair, twisting tightly and yanking my head back. He trails his lips over my exposed throat, followed by two sharp points.

My heart speeds up, breath panting out in fear. Oh, fuck, those are his fangs, oh God, oh God, oh God!

“What’s the matter, sweetheart?” he whispers, tongue flicking out. “Afraid I’m gonna bite you?”

A weak whimper escapes me as his fangs slide over the still healing mark, pressing against the bruised skin. I squeeze my eyes shut, praying it’ll be over soon.

“St-stop,” I gasp, beg. Tears are prickling beneath my eyelids. “Pl-please!” My voice hitches in a sob. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it!”

The pressure instantly disappears, fingers loosening from my hair. My eyes fly open, scared of what he’s going to do…but he’s just watching me, eyes serious.

“I’m not going to do anything,” he murmured, palm sliding against my cheek. “I don’t get off on rape.”

I stare at him, eyes wide and wet. My breaths are still shallow and fast, and I don’t really get what he means.

His thumb brushes my cheekbone and a small smirk tilts his lips, familiar glow returning to his eyes.

“Blood-drinking is the exact same thing as sex,” he continues, voice husky. “That bite from before is nothing compared to what we’ll do later.”

I bite my lip, the words going straight to my groin. My eyes slide shut again, trying to reorient myself.

“I’m not going to have sex with you,” I mutter, trying to put some force behind my words. I fail horribly.

“Yeah, you will,” he drawls, nails dragging under my chin. He takes advantage of my raised face, pressing his lips to mine before I can say anything. He quickly pulls back, hooking a finger through one of my belt-loops. “Now, c’mon. Neve and I have a proposition for you.”

It’s no surprise that my mind flies to something sexual. However, I decide not to say anything, letting Sei lead me down to the kitchen.

Neve looks up when we walk in, pale hand wrapped around an apple. He shoots me a glare as he takes a vicious bite, and I have a feeling he’s imagining it’s me…although I don’t think I want to know which part.

I break eye contact, pulling away from Sei.

“Okay, what did you want to tell me?” I demand, crossing my arms defensively.

Sei moves to Neve’s side, wrapping an arm around his waist and pressing an affectionate kiss to his hair. I feel a stab of jealousy.

“A position just opened up where we work,” Sei said, letting his other hand play with the ties of Neve’s pants. “Figured you could take it.”

I frown, confused. “Where do you work?”

Sei shrugged. “Bar. The position’s for a server, so you don’t need a lot of training. Pay’s alright. Pretty nice place, so you don’t get too many creeps tryin’ to feel you up.”

That thought hadn’t actually crossed my mind, but now I’m a little worried.

Oh, what am I talking about? I’m a slut.

“Okay, fine, I’ll take the job. Do I need a resume or anything?”

Sei shook his head, smirking. “Long as you got a pretty face, manager won’t care.”

…what kind of place is this exactly?

I sigh, waving a hand. “Whatever. When do I go in?”

Neve licks his fingers, watching me through his hair. I try not to stare.

“Our next shift is tomorrow, so I figure you can go over today, make sure you get the job, and they’ll start you with us.”

I blink. Fast.

“Yeah, sure. When are we leaving?”

Sei shrugged. “Now? Unless you’ve got something else to do.”

Yeah, right.

“Now’s good. Do I need to wear something…I dunno, professional?” I glance down at my outfit. It covers me, but it’s not exactly interview material.

The vampire smirks, dark eyes taking in my appearance. “You look fuckable. You’re good.”

My face turns red and I quickly look away. “Right. Thanks.” He’d better notice the sarcasm.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart,” he replies, tone sweet. He turns his attention to Neve, plucking the apple-core from his hand. “You coming?”

The pale man shrugs, sighing. “Whatever.” He pulls away from Sei, walking past me to the foyer. I shiver.

Cold hands touch my stomach and I jump, looking up to see Sei grinning down at me.

“You’re less bitchy today.”

I scowl at him, shoving away. “Fuck off. Stop touching me.” I stomp out of the kitchen, shoving my feet into my battered shoes once I reach the foyer. I hope my feet aren’t a big factor in landing this job.

Neve is standing there with his arms crossed, watching me. I try to ignore him as well, although it’s difficult, considering that kiss is still running through my brain. His lips are fucking cold.

My eyes quickly fix on the floor, avoiding his.

The jingle of keys alerts me to Sei’s presence, and I jump back as he slides past me to open the door.

“Neve, you take the bike, alright? I’ll meet you two there.”

What?

I glance at Neve, confused, but he just rolls his eyes, taking the keys from the vampire.

“Fine.”

Grinning, Sei gives him a quick kiss. “Don’t crash.”

“I won’t,” mutters Neve, slipping past his (our) husband. His icy eyes find me, mouth pulled into its usual frown. “Come on.”

Shivering, I reluctantly follow him, glancing back at Sei. I don’t know why he’s sending us on a bike instead of, y’know, taking a car.

Then again, I didn’t realise the bike was referring to a motorcycle.

“You can drive this thing?” I ask, surprised. My eyes slide along the smooth planes, fascinated.

“Obviously.”

My fast reflexes are the only things that save me from getting clocked in the head by a helmet. Shooting Neve a glare, I shove the helmet onto my head. It feels weird…

“Get on,” orders Neve, already straddling the silver machine.

Rolling my eyes, I climb on behind him, perching awkwardly on the seat. Not really sure what I’m supposed to hold onto…

A surprised sound escapes me as my arms are grabbed and yanked forward, forced to wrap around Neve’s thin torso. I shiver, heart pounding at the close proximity.

He snorts, turning on the bike. “Hold onto me, and maybe you won’t die.”

…somehow I think he’d purposely crash just to get rid of me.

Still, I do as he says, my hold tightening as we suddenly shoot forward out of the driveway, speeding along the road. My eyes squeeze shut. Oh, fuck, I don’t like this…

I can’t hear anything as we race along, wind howling against my sensitive ears. Shitshitshit, I’m gonna die! Fuck, and I was finally getting my life on track and fuck I don’t want to die on this thing!

I try to count the seconds, my heartbeats, anything, but it’s kinda hard to distract yourself when you’re trapped on the back of a death machine.

I might black at one point, because next thing I know, everything quiet except for the buzzing in my ears. Slowly, I open my eyes, convinced I somehow died. Instead, I find Neve, hair tousled from the helmet, staring down at me.

I blink.

“Would you let go already?” he growls, voice edged with pain. “Your claws are kind of digging into me.”

I instantly let go, eyes wide. Glancing down at my hands, I realise that, yes, my nails have lengthened and hardened into points. Flushing, I quickly force them down before yanking off my helmet. I look at him guiltily.

“Sorry. Didn’t know they’d grown.”

He rolls his eyes, sliding off the bike. “If you don’t want anyone finding you out, maybe you should keep that sort of thing in control.”

I follow him, looking away. “You don’t think I’m trying?”

He snorts. “If you’re still that bad? Then, no.”

I glare at him, mouth pressed into a thin line. “I didn’t exactly have anyone to teach me how to.” My hands have tightened into fists.

“What, and you couldn’t figure it out yourself? I manage just find.”

My lip curls. “Oh, yeah? And what are you?”

He smirks nastily, leaning forward to blow icy air in my face. “You’re just going to have to figure that out, sunshine.”

Shivering, I reach up to realise my eyelashes are dusted with frost.

I just stare at him. However, before I can say anything, hands suddenly clap down on my shoulders, making me yelp in surprise. I turn my head to see Sei peering over my shoulder at Neve, eyes warm.

“So, let’s show him to the boss.”

Neve nods, offering the vampire a small smile as he heads around the back of the building. Sei follows, pulling me along with him.

Around the two of them, I feel totally out of place. They’re just so…loving. Well, I’m not sure that’s the right word. Maybe it is.

I sigh internally. Either way, I seriously don’t belong with these people.

The world suddenly goes dark, and a few blinks reveals that we’re inside. I peer around, but there’s not much to see: just a couple halls.

Neve starts down one, Sei and I following close behind. I repress a shiver. The place is so empty.

When we stop a short distance later, we’re in front of a door bearing the nameplate ‘Leigh Walker’. Neve knocks, opening the door without waiting for a reply.

At first, I see nothing strange about the man behind the desk; standard drow, pitch black skin, stark white hair…only thing weird is his presence in the city. Drow are pretty reclusive, just like most elves.

But it’s not until he looks up that I realise just how weird he is. Pure gold eyes peer up through his hair, pupil- and white-less. It’s like his irises just leaked until they covered the entirety of his eyes. His ears are oddly shaped as well, like fins, and I think I see scales peeking out of his collar.

What the hell?

Eyebrow raised, the man (I’m guessing Leigh?) scans me slowly. I shift uncomfortably, resisting the urge to wrap my arms around myself.

“This a new addition to your harem?” he drawls, voice whispery and rough.

“It’s not a harem,” replied Neve, arms crossed.

Leigh shrugs. “A bunch of men fucking each other in one house? Sounds like a harem to me.”

Sei grins brightly. “You know you’re jealous. Anyway, this is Kit. He can take that server job.”

“Hm.” The drow props his chin on his hand. His fingers are webbed. “You served before?”

Silently, I shake my head.

He sighs. “Well, I guess you could pick things up.” His creepy eyes scan me again. “You have the looks.”

I blush.

He leans forward, staring into my face.

“So, what are you?”

I blink. “What?”

Leigh rolls his eyes…well, I think he does. “Species, kid.”

Like hell I’m telling. “Human.”

He raises an eyebrow. “Somehow, I think you’re lying. Hiding something?”

I shift uncomfortably. “I’m not lying.”

I can feel Neve staring at me. I just really hope he doesn’t give me away.

Sighing, Leigh turns his face to Neve.

“Care to tell me what he is?”

I watch him, stiff. Maybe I should start running now…

Expression not changing at all, Neve replies, “As far as I know, he’s human.”

My eyes widen in surprise. He…covered for me?

I try not to react.

Snorting, the drow leaned back, crossing his arms. “Fine. I’ll drop the subject.” Head tilting slightly, he looks at me again. “Alright. I’ll give you a try. Neve will show you everything you need to do tomorrow.”

That’s it?

“Th-thanks,” I say, surprise obvious in my voice. “Do I…need anything?”

“With Sei and Neve recommending you? No.” He leans over, digging around in one of his drawers, producing a couple sheets of paper. He gestures to the chair next to me, sliding the papers across the desk. “Read these over and sign them.”

Obediently, I sit down, peering cautiously at the sheets. Just the usual forms. Biting my lip, I pick up a pen, filling in everything I can and adding my signature before sliding them back. Leigh glances them over quickly, before slipping them back in the desk. He looks up, eyebrows raised. “I guess I should show you around a bit.”

I shrug, not really sure what to say.

Pushing the hair out of his dark face (I can’t help staring at the webbing), he stands up, walking around the desk. “Alright, follow me.”

Glancing at Sei and Neve, I slowly follow him.

“We’ll wait here,” drawled Sei, wrapping an arm around Neve’s waist.

Leigh waved his hand. “Sure. Just no sex on my desk.”

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice Neve’s cheeks turn bright red. I quicken my steps, feeling very uncomfortable.

The hall is even worse when I’m alone with a man I just met. Going home with a stranger for sex is different than getting a tour from one who’s your new boss.

“So. How did you meet the boys?” asks Leigh as we walk, strange voice putting me on edge.

Nervously, I tug at my hair. “It was…sort of an accident.”

His eyebrows shoot up, gold eyes flicking to me. Like most elves, he’s really tall.

“An accident? Are you dating them or married?”

I clear my throat, looking down. “M-married.”

“So…an accidental marriage?” He leads me through a door, then down a flight of stairs. “How did that happen?”

My laugh is short and fake. “Went home drunk with one. Woke up married.”

“Really? Which one?”

“Felix.”

His mouth is twisted. “Somehow, I’m not surprised.”

“Why’s that?” I ask, wondering if Felix has done this before.

Leigh shrugs. “He’s the rash one.” He frowned. “You don’t sound like you know them very well.”

I roll my eyes. “No kidding. I’ve only known them for a few days.”

He stares at me. “That’s…different.”

I tug at my hair, one arm wrapped around my waist. “Yeah, I know. It’s fucked up. But…trying to make it work.” I give him a wan smile.

“Hm.” He doesn’t say anything else, so I guess the subject’s dropped.

Opening another door, we step into what I assume is the main bar. It looks like a standard upper class bar, except with more tables around the dance floor. I also notice the multi-levelled stage and balcony. Fancy.

“Nothing really to explain,” he says, shrugging. “Your job will be to take the customers’ orders. The kitchen is behind the bar. Any tips you get, you keep.”

I highly doubt I’ll be getting tips.

“No standard uniform. Just wear something you’d wear to a club.” He smirks slightly. “Skimpier the better.”

I raise an eyebrow. “I’m just gonna be serving, right?”

Leigh’s smirk widens. “Yes. The customers just like a good view. Just make sure you can handle being hit on.”

Nodding, I shove my hair back. I can definitely handle being hit on.

“Oh, right, the most important piece of your uniform.” He heads behind the bar, crouching down. Curious, I follow him. Unlocking a drawer, he digs inside, standing up. He holds something out.

I blink.

“A collar?”

He shrugs. “Choker necklace. They light up, so the customers can find you. Don’t worry, it isn’t anything kinky.”

I take it, studying it carefully. Jewel-studded black leather that laces up in the back. It’s pretty.

“Okay. Anything else?”

He shakes his head. “You’ll pick everything up during your shifts. Neve’ll help.”

Yeah, right.

“So…Neve is a server…what’s Sei do?”

He raises an eyebrow. “You don’t even know that? Are you sure you’re married to them?” My glare makes him roll his eyes. “Bartender. Customers love him.”

“I bet,” I mutter. I almost expected him to say ‘stripper’.

“You…don’t really get along with them, do you?”

I avoid his strange eyes. “Who? Sei and Neve?” Slowly, I shake my head. “I’m around Sage the most.”

“You planning to divorce them?”

Wow, way to make me even more uncomfortable.

“Ah…no. They…don’t want me to.” I give him a bright smile, which earns me an odd look.

“I guess they like you.”

I nod. Yeah, sure. We’ll go with that.

Glancing at his watch, Leigh sighs. “Well, that’s it. I have things to do today. And I just know those two are fucking in my office.”

I blush at the mental image. I refuse to admit how hot that is.

Leigh apparently notices, because he gives me a knowing smirk.

“Maybe if we get there fast enough, they’ll ask you to join.”

My blush darkens. “Shut up.” My eyes widen as soon as I say it. “Sorry.” Pissing off my new boss is probably a bad idea.

He smiles. “Don’t worry, it takes a lot to bother me.” He leads me back up the stairs. “Speaking of, I’m a drow and merman. I know you’ve been wondering, so I thought I’d clear that up.”

I blink, staring at him in surprise. “You…are? I…didn’t know that was possible.”

His smile is somewhat strained. “The mer rarely mate with other species. It’s not exactly looked upon favourably.”

I bite my lip, looking down. “Oh.”

“I find no reason to hide what I am. And maybe knowing what I am will you make you less worried about revealing what you are,” he adds, glancing at me sideways.

I wince. “Sure.”

Like hell.

His mouth twists a bit, and I know he knows that I have no intention of telling him ever.

I don’t really want to lose my job right after I’ve gotten it.

At least he doesn’t press me. Instead, he leads me through the door at the top of the stairs, and we start down the long hallway. It’s not as awkward as I expect. Usually, I’m really bad around strangers.

Maybe it’s because he’s as ostracised as I am.

“So…do you just swim normally?”

I am the master of dumb questions.

He looks at me, amused.

“I get a tail when I get wet.”

I raise an eyebrow, arms wrapped around my waist. “That’s gotta be awkward.”

He snorts, giving me a crooked smile. I think he’s warming up to me.

“It only happens when I’m really wet. I don’t come to work during bad storms.”

I can’t help but snicker at that. “Never heard that excuse before. So…if there’s just a little rain, you’re okay?”

“Unless I fall in a puddle.” He sighs, stretching his hands in front of him. I still can’t stop staring at the webbing. “Having a tail’s a bitch.”

I roll my eyes, a small smile on my face. “I know.”

As soon as I realise what I said, my eyes widen, snapping to Leigh’s face. He’s looking at me, a considering look on his face, lips tilted slightly.

“So. A tail?”

I quickly shake my head. I’m good at denial.

“I mean, I can guess how annoying it is.”

“Mhm. That narrows it down some.” His eyes roll to the ceiling. “So, you could be a were, or fae…some of them have tails. Or…” He glances at me sideways, eyebrows raised. “Now that would be interesting.”

I immediately stiffen. “I’m not.”

“I haven’t even said it yet.”
“I know what you’re thinking,” I glower, arms tightening defensively. “And you’re wrong. So don’t even think of it.”

He smirks, leaning closer. “I’m right, aren’t I? You’re so defensive.”

I refuse to look at him, eyes fixed on the floor. He knows he’s right. Not much I can do at this point.

I jump when an arm wraps around me, body pressing to my side. Eyes wide, startled, I stare up at Leigh. He ruffles my hair with his other hand, smile lopsided.

“I won’t do anything. Promise.”

I bite my lip, not wanting to believe him. “I can’t trust you. You just met me.”

He sighs, arm tightening. “Really, Kit. You can trust me. Unless you’re as dangerous as your kind is accused of being, I have no reason to do anything.”

I look down, finally admitting defeat. “We’re not all that bad. I’m not like that. I’ve never hurt anybody.”

“It’s okay,” murmurs Leigh, petting my hair.

I unconsciously lean into the touch, eyes fluttering. It’s nothing sexual. I just…really like being touched.

“Y’know, I’ve always been a cat person.”

I sigh as he rubs behind my ears. “Am I really that obvious?”

“Maybe I’m just really observant.”

My laugh is breathy. “Okay.”

I should not be getting along this well with a stranger. But damn, is he good with his hands…

All too soon (in my opinion), we’re in front of his office door, and his hand falls away to open the door. He sighs, rolling his eyes.

“Please tell me you at least did it on the couch and not my desk.”

Sei smirks, yanking on his shirt.

“Hey, somebody’s gotta use this office for more than business, and I know it ain’t gonna be you.”

Neve fixes his hair, shooting Leigh a small grin. I can’t help but notice the bright red mark on his neck. Bite mark.

…that’s not jealousy, is it?

…no way.

Rolling his eyes again, Leigh releases me to walk around his desk and drop down in the large chair. He leans back, eyebrows raised.

“Well, if you two are done, you can take your kitty home. I think he’ll be fine.”

I shoot him a look, which he ignores. No time to dwell on it, however, since the next moment, Sei’s got his arm wrapped around my waist and is pulling me to the door along with Neve.

“See ya tomorrow, boss,” he tosses over his shoulder with a bright grin.

Leigh gives a small wave, already looking down at the sheets sprawled across his desk.

When the door shuts behind us, I decide that the silence is a lot more awkward than when I was with Leigh.

And that just seems wrong.

I sneeze.

“You two smell like sex,” I comment, rubbing at my nose.

“Well, that is what happens when you have sex,” Sei drawls, fingers pressing into my hip. I flinch. “You should try it sometime.”

My lip curls as I shoot him a glare. “That’s what got me into this mess in the first place.”

His dark eyes narrow as his hand tightens. “Mess, huh?”

“Well, yeah.” I try to move away, uncomfortable.

He won’t let me. “You’re pretty ungrateful.”

“I think it’s a mess,” drawls Neve from his other side.

Of course he does.

“You’re not helping,” growls Sei, annoyed.

Neve’s eyes roll, a derisive sound escaping him. “Like I want to help him.”

Jaw clenched, Sei pulls away from us with a glower. “I’ll see you at home.”

And then he’s gone.

Face twisted into a scowl, Neve grabs my arm, yanking me down the hall. I stumble, pain shooting through the limb as icy cold sinks into my skin.

Gasping, my fingers scrabble at his hand.

“Sh-shit! Let go!”

“It’s really hard to upset Sei, you know,” he mutters, apparently ignoring me. Shocker.

He pushes open the door, yanking me outside.

“Then maybe he shouldn’t keep hitting on me,” I growl, shivering violently.

Neve snorts, pulling me over to the bike.”He’s married to you; he’s allowed.”

I narrow my eyes. “I married Felix, not him.”

The pale man traps my jaw in his cold, cold hand, eyes narrowed to icy slits. “You marry one of us, you marry all of us. Deal with it.”

My breath is gasping, painful. His hands are so fucking icy…

Abruptly, he lets go of me, shoving a helmet into my hands. He doesn’t look at me as he pulls on his, slinging a leg over the bike. I awkwardly wrap one arm around it, the other too cold to move. It’s even harder to put the helmet on and get on the bike behind him.

I really want to run away.

When the bike starts, I quickly wrap my arm around his waist, the other hanging uselessly at my side.

My eyes squeeze shut as we speed out onto the road. God, I wish I was anywhere else right now.

I barely notice most of the ride home, too focussed on the horrible numbness of my arm. I would look at it, but I’m too scared to open my eyes.

When we finally come to a stop, I feel like I’m going to pass out.

Neve slides gracefully off the bike, yanking off his helmet. He looks at me with cold eyes, mouth thin. I slump, left arm shakily bracing my body.

Obviously running out of patience, the other man drags the helmet off of my head.

“What the hell are you waiting for?”

Face ashen, I look up, grimacing.

I really don’t want to deal with an angry Neve.

Pushing myself up, I manage to swing my leg around, but before I can get on the ground, I topple off the seat. I’m pretty shocked when an arm wraps around me, holding me upright. Startled, I pull away, turning to face Neve. Never put your back to your enemies.

He stares at me, eyes narrowed.

“What’s wrong with you?” His eyes flick down, staying on my arm. I guess he notices the strange way I’m holding it. Frowning, he steps forward, grabbing my hand and pushing up my sleeve, making me yelp in pain. His eyes widen. “Shit.”

Finally, I look down. The blood falls from my face.

My arm has taken on a nasty mottled red colour, the flesh swelled.

“What…did you do?” I whisper, shaking.

Grabbing my left arm, he drags me quickly into the house. I’m too focussed on the fact that I can barely feel my arm and that it’s swollen and red to care about the way I’m being pulled along.

I find myself back in the bathroom with a worried Neve.

Worried?

He carefully wraps my arm in a blanket, shoving the hair out of his eyes.

“Sit down. I’m filling the tub.”

Staring at him, I slowly sit on the toilet. I can’t stop shaking.

“What did you do…?” I repeat, voice strained.

“It’s frostbite,” he mutters, testing the water as it slowly fills the tub.

My eyes widen. “Frostbite? How the hell did you do that?!”

He scowls, shooting me a look over his shoulder.

“Because that’s part of what I am.” He turns his attention back to the water, dipping his fingers in and adjusting it. After a minute, he gestures for me to walk over. “Come here.”

Warily, I stand up and go to the tub, kneeling when I tug on his pant-leg. I copy his position, watching as he unwraps the blanket. Fuck, my arm looks awful.

Hands weirdly gentle, he brings my arm toward the water, pushing me closer to submerge it. I hiss as pins prickle up my arm, unable to move away due to the hand on my back.

“Just let it soak,” he mutters, staring down at my arm.

I whimper softly, biting my lip. “I hate water.” Random, but it helps to talk about something else.

“I figured.” He continues testing the temperature of the water. I guess he’s making sure it stays constant.

I whimper again, eyes squeezing shut.

“Fuck…it hurts.” My other hand clings to the side of the tub desperately. It feels like my arm is on fire.

“You’re going to have to keep your arm in for about an hour,” he mutters, sounding a lot less biting than usual. He sounds almost…guilty.

“Okay,” I whisper, body stiff. I really don’t want to stay here for an hour…but Neve seems to know what he’s doing. And for once, I don’t think he’s trying to hurt me.

Then again, he is the one who did this to me…

I feel him move away, and a second later I hear him opening drawers.

“What’re you looking for?” I ask, voice barely there. Just gotta keep talking. Talking is distracting and that’s good.

“I’m getting bandages,” he replies, footsteps returning.

Finally, I open my eyes, squinting at him. “Do you do this a lot?”

Slowly he nods. “Yes.”

I grimace as my arm spasms. “You should figure out a way to fix that.”

He snorts, studying my arm. “Only happens when people piss me off.”

“And you say I don’t have enough control?”

“You don’t,” he replies. Standing up, he dries his hands. “Stay here, I’ll be back.”

I roll my eyes, swallowing a pathetic moan. “Like I’m going anywhere.”

He doesn’t reply, and as soon as he’s gone, I slump against the tub, gasping in pain while tears spring to my eyes. Now that Neve’s gone, I’m not bothering to try and keep my composure. The pain is fucking unbearable, and I can feel my skin blistering.

I’m never letting that bastard touch me again.

It’s not long before Neve comes back, a mug held between his hands. Face blank, he sits next to me, holding up the mug.

“It’s hot chocolate. Thought it might help.”

I blink at him, surprised. “Th-thanks.”

He nods. “I cooled it down a bit, so it shouldn’t burn.”

A small, unconscious smile touches my lips as I take it. I don’t think I even realise my expression until I find him staring.

I sip the hot chocolate, confused. “What?”

Oh, God, he put in milk…

He shakes his head quickly, testing the temperature of the bath water. “Nothing.”

I don’t believe him, but my arm spasms again, and I nearly drop the cup. Fuuuuck.

“Do you want some painkillers?”

I nod, teeth clenched. I’ll question later why he’s actually being nice to me. But for now, I’ll just enjoy it while it lasts.

Well. As much as I can, anyway.

The hour passes slowly and in mostly silence, but finally, Neve lifts my arm out of the water, carefully drying it and wrapping the limb in bandages. Still red and now blistered, but at least I can feel it again. And the bandages hide the damage.

Draining the tub, Neve pulls me to my feet. “Can you move your fingers?”

Wiggling them, I nod with a wince. “Hurts, but yeah.”

“Okay.” He leads me to his bedroom, which I instantly find suspicious. But he doesn’t do anything but find a sweater, helping me to pull it on. The warmth is nice.

“If you have any problems, just tell me,” he mutters, fingers restlessly straightening his clothes. He won’t meet my eyes.

My brow furrows as I slowly nod. “Alright. Um…thanks.”

His head bobs quickly, but he doesn’t say anything before quickly leaving the room.

I sigh, cautiously flexing my fingers.

And he calls me dangerous.