The Unexpected Resurrection of Neon Red and its CWs

About two years ago, I gave Vella a try. It went absolutely nowhere. I don’t know, maybe it was my lack of marketing skills. Anyway, I took Neon Red down six months before Vella shuttered and said I’d release it on D2D or Smashwords. I can still do that. I’m still thinking about it, but I figured why not give Substack a go and see what happens. If it doesn’t pick up after about six months, I’ll bring it here. No big deal. I get more reads through FB than anywhere else anyway.
So, with that being said, I will post Content Warnings here. Neon red is a Dramatic Paranormal Romance. Keyword: dramatic. It’s dark, twisted at times, and messy.
The story follows four vampires. First up, there’s Maxine, a depressed, ninety-eight-year-old divorcée living at home. Then we have Low, a bodyguard intent on fucking up his career and personal life. And because I love chaos, there is Jaxon Aubrey, a genius accountant moonlighting as a drug lord.
Lastly, and not my favorite character, Tracy. Maxine’s father, Low’s boss, and Jaxon’s newest client.
Neon Red is the first in a three-book series I completed four-five years ago. It’s not my best work, but it is fun and enjoyable. I have been editing and tweaking since its Vella days, so it ain’t sooooo bad.
Neon Red is a journey some may not like, and others love. Keep in mind, again, this is a dark story with dark themes. I don’t condone drug use or selling, nor do I care for those who actively destroy lives. This is fiction, and trust, I do not glorify it. There are consequences for every action. If you follow along to the very end, you will see what I mean.
The main coupling is a fast-burning polycule. Mmf. Crossing swords and sloppy toppy for everyone! By everyone! I’ve said it many times, but all these characters are Bi or pan. No assuming, just know!
Also, Maxine and Low are Black. Jaxon is not; he is Irish. I suppose this makes it an Interracial and Black love romance. Neon Red is unapologetically Black, and some language will seem dated. That’s intentional. These are old ass vampires with decades behind and in front of them. Time moves differently when you’re immortal.

Without further delay, the CWs and trope card.

Off-page death of a parent, Depression Murder, Parental Neglect and Financial Abuse Trauma, Mild Gore Blackmail, Drug Selling, Drug Use (weed), Parental Abandonment, Mention of Religious Bigotry, Past Domestic Violence
Neon Red trope card includes Polycule dynamic, plus-size FMC, Secret Relationships, morally gray MCs, Paranormal Romance, Forced Marriage

Chapter 7: Lemondrops

A little word before we begin. I want to add a few content warnings. This chapter is loaded with degradation and masochism. No, I am not an authority on BDSM but I have done my fair share of research. Which, I strongly encourage. Yes, books can be used as learning tools, but you will not find that here! Do not take anything I write to be law, it is fiction. And while yes, this is a fabricated world I cooked up, I want to say, I take consent seriously and in this case, without exception. BDSM isn’t about getting off on beating people. It’s not abuse, and it isn’t dark. It is meant to be something profoundly intimate between consenting adults. This lifestyle is about trust and communication. So, if the CWs didn’t scare you away, then by all means, read on. If by chance it’s not your thing, please skip this chapter. I will not take it personally.

Buck

Buck entered the house barefoot and smelled food. He gave thanks to the wife and found his plate in the microwave. Before stabbing start, he read the note she’d slapped on the fridge.
Meet you in the barn.
“Well shit, it’s my lucky day.” With his priorities set in stone, Buck wolfed down meatloaf, home fries, sage sausage, and cabbage. He chased every bite with a swig of honey beer and swallowed two slices of pistachio butter cake. “Imma need my strength.”
Full as a tick and feeling much like himself again, Buck crept into the early morning warmth and made certain to set the alarm. He wouldn’t be coming back. Still barefoot and indecent, he jogged across green pastures and headed for the barn. Buck waved at the sheep, hopped over micro goats, and nodded at James, the stubborn mountain goat.
James was a crotchety old fucker and loved to kick folks in the nuts. Why Hank put up with his shit was a mystery.
“What ya looking at, James?! Huh? Jealous?” He bleated and charged. “Get on with the bull!”
Buck sprinted for the rustic barn door and shimmied inside. He hooped in victory and slammed the barrier shut.
“Whew. What an asshole.”
“Go wash up and make it snappy.”
He grinned on the turn around and spied his lovely bride. Their barn wasn’t for animals or the sheep, but it was away from the house and out of earshot. It also provide them with enough room to play. They’d flipped the space twenty years back, turning it into a loft some called a dungeon.
Buck and Nieema knew what a dungeon felt like, smelled like, and had personal trauma tied to the cursed place. They would never call their love nest such a thing.
Buck eyed the regal woman who posed as any tyrannical queen might. She was impatient on her throne made of core timber and rattling steel. Nieema’s frigid stare promised overtime.
“You lucky I need some TLC.” Buck glared until he reached the bathroom. “Five minutes.”
“Three!”
He smiled and started the shower. Steam pillowed as Buck scrubbed rich soil, moss, and groundwater from his skin. He picked dirt from his claws and washed thorns from his hair. Sweet notes of the land never abandoned him, but he did his best. Not everybody enjoyed the smell of nature.
“Whatchu got for me, beloved?”
A man about his business and confident in his step, Buck exited the washroom, booty naked, and excited as ever. Like a good boy, he waited for instruction.
“Come sit,” Nieema said, patting the throne she’d vacated. “Let me nourish my love.”
Buck sighed and settled into the hard, pockmarked chair.
The punishment chair.
“I got your text.”
Pleasure sparked in his veins as hot droplets pelted his shoulders. Buck relaxed the moment Nieema touched him. Her deft fingers and strong grip loosened knots and kinks. Closing his eyes, he surrendered. It’d been a long night and he deserved this. While Nieema kneaded, she purred.
The familiar melody lulled and soothed. He’d grown to need it over the years. A song to usher him into heightened states of being. Nieema added pressure and caressed his throat, coating it in oil.
“I won’t let them take you from me,” she rasped. “If they even dare, I’ll pick them off, one by one. I swear it, on my soul. And those of our children. I will turn this valley red and sully the rivers with their viscera.”
Buck laughed at her dramatic ass.
“Ain’t I special?”
“You most certainly are. And everyone will know just how much if they cross me.”
Nieema nibbled on his ear, his jaw, and his clavicle. She kissed his nape and raked her nails over his scalp.
“Look at me,” Nieema demanded, circling around to face him.
Buck knew better than to disobey his queen. And matching her intense scarlet stare made him shiver. Dressed in her favorite gown from times past she was dignified elegance.
A choke collar, corset, and chandelier earrings. Maroon velvet, supple leather, and silk ruffles.
It’d be hell to remove but he’d rip that god damn bodice from her back when allowed.
Nieema lifted her sharp chin and sneered. He’d already told her what was on the menu this morning. His dick jumped and thighs spread in anticipation. Buck gripped armrests and squirmed. Her scent alone tempted a weak old man. She was soaked below the waist, and they both knew it.
“Pathetic,” Nieema chided, fishing for a treat between her breasts. Heavy and soft, they undulated as she dug. “Eyes front, Buckley! You vile worm!”
Buck whimpered and bit his bottom lip as she pulled the goods free. A cobalt glass glinted beneath humming overheads.
Nieema plopped down, her dress ballooning. She growled and popped the top as Buck rolled his hips, inviting the woman to stroke him. She scoffed and poured a potent mixture into her palm.
The blend of oils, dusts, and herbs scented the air. Allspice and rich, it pooled in her hand. Buck hissed the moment she clasped his bobbing length. He’d tried not to focus on it, delaying it was best for both parties.
Nieema’s tugging grip warmed. Buck moaned, watching her work him with lazy pulls. She was smart, keeping the head tucked away. Buck appreciated her skill and motion.
“I bet you want me to choke on it don’t you?” Nieema asked.
“Yes.”
“Yes, what?!”
“Your majesty.”
“Too bad. You haven’t been good enough for that.”
She smirked, sliding from tip, to base, to balls. Nieema cupped them. She slathered slowly, massaged, and crushed.
Buck yelped and opened his legs wider. Pleasure and pain popped off, ricocheting from toes to crown.
His eyes rolled and asshole clenched. He went for his nipples and Nieema smacked his hand.
“You bet not! What a disgusting, disrespectful cunt you are!” He grunted as she added another hand and pressed two fingers against his taint. “How dare you try to touch yourself. I did not grant permission.”
“I’m sorry, your majesty.”
“All you want is a nut, you ain’t really sorry.” Nieema laughed, releasing his balls. “Yet.”
Buck panted as she snatched ropes and tightened knots. On his wrists, ankles, around his shaft, and his throat.
The oil soaked into his skin and forbade an orgasm. It halted the inevitable. Ever so close, lodged in his pelvis and stuck, he dropped into a realm of perpetual ecstasy.
The only cure was for Nieema to feed from him. She’d suck the magical substance from his blood and it’d be her turn for about an hour. It had the opposite effect on her, however, and thank gods.
“I want to hear you say it,” Nieema commanded. “Say, ‘I’m a vile wretch who deserves punishment’.”
“I—I—“ The promise of an orgasm wrenched his sac and evaporated within seconds. “I’m—“
She slapped his thigh with the cane, causing endorphines to flood his system, only to be smothered. Buck writhed in his favorite chair and peered into his wifes seeking eye. Nieema Struck Buck again, and he belted a curse.
“I’m a vile wretch who deserves punishment!”
“Sickening how you blither and bow at my feet.”
Nieema flicked his nipple and ventured across the barn. He watched her rifle through drawers and groaned as another almost orgasm rocked his brain loose.
“Ya Majesty, please. Gimme somethin’ anytin’. A kiss a—“
“Hell nah!”
He tried to arch and failed. The magic was working up into his ass now and dear gods he moaned her name.
“Pig!” Nieema belted, whacking him with the cane yet again. The pleasurable streak of pain sent a heat flare to his core. Buck gasped, eyes darting to the back of his head. Sweat beaded on his skin as Nieema pinched his nipples with her needle-like claws.
Buck barked a cuss. “Yes, your majesty! Gods! Pleaaaase.”
“You look quite sad and small doing all this begging.” She yanked each nipple until they split. Hot blood dripped and streamed down his belly.
“Shiiiiiit, I—“
Nieema added clamps to the bleeding nubs and licked him clean. Buck lost all sense of self. The pinch and throb worked quick, calling a would-be release to the surface. He shouted and yanked at the restraints when it scurried away.
“God damn, gooood damn.”
“Foul mouth gets you nothin’. Piece of shit peasant.”
“Unnghhh…”
Degradation, humiliation, and masochism was his balm. Buck had lived for many, many years with folks tiptoeing around him. He didn’t sit on a throne or attend balls, but he was born from gold and crowns. To the public, he was more than just a construction worker, a handyman, a gardener, a stable boy, or a dishwasher. He’d never asked nothing from nobody but they acted as if he’d hung the stars.
Folks never said nothing bad about Buck and treated him like tissue paper. He was surrounded by yes men who had the same holes in their shoes as he did.
Something about pain and humiliation set him straight. His dark sided nature begged for it.
Nieema was the first woman to accept such vulnerability, and as she smacked him with the cane, he fell in love with her for the thousandth time. There was no one he trusted more than the lady who insulted him.
Blow after blow, Buck shivered and shouted for more. Nieema often made him beg for ten welts. He relished in her control and attention.
She inched down to her knees and bit the inside of his thigh, never drawing blood. She wouldn’t drink, only tease. Nieema degraded Buck and scratched his chest. He loved the fuck out of her and growled the moment her fangs penetrated his slick flesh. He moaned at the feel of lips and screamed his obedience.
Sweat cascaded and gathered in his thick thatch of forest green curls, settling under his ass.
When the room grew too chilly and his nuts hiked for the tenth or fifteenth time, Buck roared.
“Lemondrops! Motha fuckin lemon…drops!”
He laughed and sniveled as Nieema dropped the cane. She hurried off and returned bearing gifts. Buck sat there as the wife kissed his forehead and removed clamps with a gentle hand.
“Awww, look at my man.”
“Yeah, you fucked me up.”
Nieema giggled, massaging his nipples. She added a numbing cream and kissed the scratches on his neck. Her aftercare was top-notch and above reproach. She dried him and untied knots. The lack of rope and pain did nothing to douse his need for her.
Nieema was careful with his hardened shaft. She uncoiled the length of hemp and nylon slowly. He grunted at the freedom and the desire to come.
“You smell like you want somethin’ nice,” Buck said.
“I don’t know what that could be, Mr. Sunside.”
She lifted that heavy skirting and straddled him. with Nieema perched on her knees, warmth and fuzz grazed his dick. She rocked, and Buck dipped under and then between. He clutched himself and tugged, revealing his weeping tip.
His damp head kissed her lips.
Buck shifted and winched under her strength. Nieema sunk fangs into his throat and sucked. She pulled at his vein and with it, lust. Undiluted and untamed a fire of desire blossomed in his soul. With zero finesse, he punched hips upward and impaled his wife.
Her muffled scream was glorious, and so were her tight walls. She clothed and bathed. Nieema’s body fit around him like a fine-tailored suit. He had girth more than length and she was often sore, but god damn he took care of her aches afterward.
Buck wrapped arms around her soft, pliant form and rutted.
Nieema detached from his neck and cussed his name. She was soaked through. Her luxurious honey coated his nuts and created a mess. Their connection was obscene. A symphony of quick claps and leaking waters.
“Buuuuuck,” Nieema cried as she clung to his shoulders. “You—damn—ugh!”
“I know it,” Buck panted. “You right there. Let it go for me, baby. Gimme what I come for!”
He dug her out and wasn’t to keep a lady waiting. He shifted and arched.
Nieema belted his name again and scored his shoulders. Pleasure coursed through him in waves and battered his senses.
Blood, vanilla, and moss entered his lungs with each sawing breath.
She cast a spell on him and clenched. Buried to the hilt and pummeling her, he was eager.
Nieema erupted, but Buck continued onward as she gushed. He fucked her raw. Growling and yanking on her perfect braids. Buck snapped her head to the side and kissed the supple curve of her breast.
“Agaiiin, Buck, I’m bouta—fuck me babyyy! Yes!”
His control vanished with the taste of her skin. She was decadent and pure. Gentle yet deadly.
Grace and power.
Her pussy convulsed, snatching Buck by his soul and sac. They howled like starving beasts in the night and came as one.
Buck collapsed in his chair while Nieema trembled against his chest. He covered her damp forehead with kisses and rubbed her back. She laughed, which in turn made him cackle.
“I like the pathetic worm bit,” Buck said, holding tight and pulling out.
He could and would sleep inside of her. They’d done it on more than one—two—ten occasions.
“I wanted to get creative.”
“That you did, baby. I loved it.”
She sighed and wiggled. “This dress is so goddamn bothersome. You know what? I dusted it off and thought it’d be nice, you know? Why in the hell did we ever wear this shit?”
“I think you look fine as wine. Mm!”
Nieema sat upright and tweaked a brow. “How are you gon’ get me outta this thing? I got about five layers and my habits keeping your from these luscious tiddies.”
Buck went at the velvet and leather like they’d pissed in his grits. He tore the fucker loose and her marvelous breasts jiggled, thanks to Nieema’s crackling laughter.
“Now, if I wanted to ruin it, I woulda done so. You old fool!”
“I need these tiddies free.”
Buck held a generous breast in both hands and latched onto her nipple. His wife shouted, and he stood, heading straight for the bed upstairs.

Chapter 7: Welcome To Indigo Plains

Jasper

Before moving to Indigo Plains, Jasper hadn’t researched the town much. Kit had been right; it was an impulsive purchase but a needed one. She knew Indigo Plains operated mostly at night, with its large nocturnal population and all. With three schools, one hospital, and a tight-knit fae community, Jasper figured there wasn’t much to it.
Their delivery run proved her wrong. Sure, Indigo Plains lacked high rises and an urban symphony, but it was rich with life. Far from a sleepy town, pedestrians crowded the sidewalk. Bodies spilled from a rowdy bar, and a group of teenage satyrs laughed into a busy cinema.
Everyone Jasper encountered was kind and quick to introduce themselves. The shops and eateries were packed. There wasn’t a piece of trash in sight. And she hadn’t tripped over a rat or stumbled on a beer bottle.
The air on Great Oaks Street was sweet and savory. The aroma snared her. A food stand in front of Zarbies bakery gathered their attention.
“Oh, hay now!” Nieema doubled back and inhaled with dramatic flair. “These are Nana Fosters’ famous meat pies. Flaky dough filled with salted pork, spices, and extra cheese.”
“Where can we pay?” Kit asked. Quick to spend money he didn’t work for. “Where can—”
“These are samples. She puts them out at the end of every night. We’re coming up on two am, she’s about done.”
“Soooo…” Kit clutched his new journal, waiting for Nieema’s answer.
“Go ahead, sir! They free.”
“Excellent.”
Jasper loved free food and wouldn’t pass on this. The first buttery bite made her sag. She shook her head and grumbled with a bulging cheek.
“This is—“ Kit lost his tongue and moaned. “I can’t think of anything else. I want a basket full.”
“Well, most order by the dozen.” A gentle smile and eyes greeted them. “Hello, there. You must be new in town.”
The fairy elder with pastel pink curls and gauzy wings fluttering at her back hobbled over and extended a hand.
Jasper accepted the salutation with thanks. “Jasper, it’s nice to meet you, ma’am. This is my brother, Kit.”
The man waved, smiled, and chewed.
“I’m Nana Foster, and these here are my Poppin’ Patties.”
“They are positively delightful,” Jasper admitted, her finger itching to grab another.
“You know me, Nana.” Nieema winked and said, “I’ll take two-dozen. Add ten more for my friends here.”
“Now, why are you two hangin’ with this troublemaker?”
The women cackled and hugged, Nieema patting her back on the pull away.
“I may be trouble, but I’m the best kind.”
“You know better than to lie to me, girl!” Nana Foster slapped Nieema’s arm with a towel. “How’s that mall business going?”
“You know, going.”
Jasper witnessed the elder darken, her jovial nature evaporated.
“I never wanted no strip mall. I didn’t vote for it.”
“Ninety percent of y’all did, and Bobbi had to be fair, Nana. He—”
“It ain’t gonna do nothin’ but bring mess and take our business.”
“You know we’re loyal. Indigo Plains will not turn its back on you.”
Nana sniffed and snapped her towel. “Yeah, until a mighty big-name cookie shop promises something new.”
“A cookie establishment will not have these delectable treats, Nana Foster.” Kit gave a curt nod and plucked another pastry.
“Two per mouth.” Nana quirked a brow and her hip.
Jasper nearly choked as Kit grimaced and put the pie back. Demons had elders too, and knew better than to cross them.
“Well Nana,” Nieema piped, “I’ll be by to pick up the order tomorrow. We gon’ get on the good foot. I gotta get supper started.”
“I know, feed those babies.”
“They’re grown!”
“Grown as a sapling.”
Nieema bid Nana farewell and Jasper did the same. The elder pinched Kit’s cheek and he gleamed. The display was erroneous. He’d never let a soul touch his face, let alone a stranger. Then again, Kit appealed to an elders nurturing side. It could be his features and stature.
“She’s nice,” Jasper announced. “Everyone is nice. It’s nothing like Misthill.”
“You stayed in the capital?” Nieema asked, clearly astounded. “Girl, six-million people is too many for me. The hustle of the city isn’t my favorite.”
“I think you’d fit in well,” Jasper said, stopping at her truck.
“However do you mean?”
“Your attire is…”
“What? You ‘spected boots, a cottage dress, and pigtails?”
“Maybe. your husband is a stereotypical cowboy.” Jasper traveled from Nieema’s neat and tidy box braids to the tips of her buckled boots. “Y’all are polar opposites.”
“You know what they say ‘bout opposites, don’t ya?”
For the third time on this wee early morning Nieema opened the door for Jasper. It was sinful how heat flared upon her cheeks and spread. The little woman caused a scene and Kit giggled climbing into the backseat.
Jasper claimed passenger and grinned at the wily vampire. “Are you this chivalrous with everyone?”
“Only those I deem worthy. Buckle up!”
Nieema slammed the door and was quick about hitting the gas. Weird, disjointed music filled the amicable silence.
“What is that raucous?” Kit asked. “It’s offensive and vile!”
“Skat jazz.”
Jasper boomed with laughter because this shit didn’t fit Nieema either. “You’re a strange, perplexing woman, Mrs Sunside.”
Nieema popped a shoulder. “So I’ve been told.”
“Jazz, quilts, and a cowboy husband? You’re two steps away from front-running a death metal band with electric blue hair and black nails. Can’t say it doesn’t suit you, however..”
“I know you can’t, tuhuh! I look damn good.”
“What melody is death metal?” Kit tapped Jasper on the horn. “Will I like it?”
“Think Core Dread.”
“Yuck! I hate it already.”
Nieema smiled, eyes on the road. Headlights illuminated her glossy, tailored brow, the curve of her nose, and the sharp point of her fangs.
“So,” Nieema began, “I think we should go over what we’ll be doing tomorrow.”
“With my house?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“What can be done?”
“For now? Survey and demolition.”
Jasper winced. “I’m sorry, what? Demolition?”
“It’d be doing you a favor,” Kit murmured, not minding his own business.
“At least it’s mine, and Father didn’t acquire it for me.”
“Well, just so you—that’s… I refuse to stoop.”
Nieema chuckled as if something amused her. Jasper failed to see what she had. A demolition was the exact opposite of what Jasper wanted.
“What do you mean by—“
“Calm down, woman. Damn. Listen, in order to rebuild, we must destroy first. The floor is rotten. The walls are crawling with mold. The wiring is faulty, and there probably ain’t no repairing the pipes. Everything must go, then, renovations.”
“Oh, okay. So then I’ll need a hammer and such.”
“Girl, you gon’ need a sledgehammer.”
“Sledgehammer?!” Kit bellowed. “I have a war hammer much like it. Can I help? Can I demolish?”
“Sure,” Nieema said, mid-giggle. “But you’ll have to be fitted with safety gear first.”
“We’ll be wearing armor too? This place isn’t as ab as I thought. First, the bean casserole, then home and goods, meat pies, and now, I get to wield a hammer!”
Jasper loved her brothers enthusiasm and thirst for violence. He was the Dukes favorite thanks to his appetite for war. She didn’t buy it, though. Kit had been molded by their patriarch. He walked the path Carriont paved and ached for approval. Countless children and Jasper was the first to leave.
“What are we gonna do now?” Jasper asked.
“I’ll throw dinner on the table, then call it a night.” Nieema parked in the driveway, gathered her satchel, and slipped out of the truck. “You can mosey about under my roof if you’d like.”
They followed her lead and retrieved Kit’s wares. Jasper had only bought herself a few necessities, whereas Kit, went apeshit on cat toys, journals, and sheet sets.
Nieema’s comment wasn’t a suggestion, but an invitation. The roll of her tongue spoke where she had not.
“Think I’ll catch a rain check on dinner.” Jasper glanced at her yawning brother, then studied the gorgeous farmhouse. “I don’t operate on a nocturnal schedule yet. I’m tired as hell.”
“If you change your mind, let me know.”
“I will.”
Nieema’s carmine appraisal remained for three seconds too long. “Hope so, ‘night y’all.”
“Goodnight, madam,” Kit said. “Thank you for the outing. I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun.”
The vampire frowned. “I wouldn’t call working fun, but you’re welcome. If you wanna see some real fun, I’ll show you. We’ll make a night of it.”
“Excellent.”
With a wink and wave, Nieema jogged into her home. Jasper groaned as her head dropped. She kicked pebbles and muttered.
“I think she likes you,” Kit remarked, stating the obvious.
“Thanks for the news. Come. Let’s get drunk on berry wine and watch Head Chef.”
“Head Chef?” Kit’s lilac stare brightened and sparkled with glee. “Is it like Cooked and Charred?”
“No. It’s more like Bottom Flame Kitchen.”
“Nice. Watching land dweller shows is technically research. I’d loved to learn more about their cuisine.”
“Most people don’t eat what they make on those shows.”
“I will. I’ll be happy to give these dishes my best effort.”
Jasper let Kit prattle. It was nice to hear him talk about something other than battle and ranks.
“I’ll be your taste tester.”
“Terrific.” Kit swung his bags as they marched for the cabin. “This is going to be great. You’ll see.”
“Can’t wait.”
She grimaced and prayed for her poor guts. Whatever Kit had in mind scared the shit out of her.

Thank you so much for reading! You’re an incredible human!

Chapter 6: In Which The Past Finds Buck

Buck

Replacing his classic muscle fifty-block with a new age engine powered by magical stones was the smartest shit he’d ever done. Buck arrived at Jack’s Real Estate and Legal Services in three minutes. He’d spent almost an hour arguing with that god damned city man about permits and regulations. It was exhausting when suits only smelled money.
Omari, their eldest son, was fed up with assholes and called his pappy. Buck was happy to play ref and calm the blue-blooded human down. He was lucky town folk had voted on this project, otherwise, they wouldn’t have shit.
Buck didn’t want a three-level shopping monstrosity in their town. It’d be an eyesore and attract trouble.
“Hiya, Buck,” Chelsea sang. Her wings fluttered as he removed his hat. “He’s in the bathroom. Got a little too happy with an eldonberry smoothie. I tried to tell him to take it easy but…”
“Mom, please.” Jack hung his head, fixed the tie, and exhaled a ragged breath. “Come on, Buck. Let’s talk in my office. Ma, hold my calls.”
“I know it.”
Buck tipped his hat, making Chelsea blush. She was a spry woodland fairy and didn’t look a day over sixty-five though pushing four-hundred. She wasn’t in the market for relationships, but he knew how Chelsea liked to dip and dive on it.
“What you call me for, Jack?”
“Close the door, would ya?”
Buck grunted as the latch clicked. “This feel like bad news.”
Jack settled behind the desk, his stained glass wings twitching. He was a handsome fella but off limits given how the wife and Buck nailed his mama to the headboard once —twice—twelve times at least.
He grabbed a seat and waited for some bullshit. Jack tugged on the point of his right ear and rocked in his executive chair.
“I’m coming to you because my mother asked it of me. This ain’t typical. Don’t be thinking that I’m running my mouth about everyone, but I thought you should know, the Palison purchased some land. The Carters’ old farm. As you know, Packard died last year. His kids opted to sell. And…”
“Why ain’t you say no?!” Buck glared at the man. “Why didn’t you just—“
“Just what? Buckley, I have ten kids.”
“We all got kids!”
“I’m the only income my family has. When faeries leave Lightbridge, their is no support for us and—“
“I know. Shit god damn it.”
“I’m sorry. Maybe it’s a coincidence.”
“No. No. Shiland was buried four months ago. I know—I figured—“ Buck cut the commentary and stared at flat, gray carpet. He’d known this day was coming but damn, not this soon. “Thanks for telling me, Jack.”
“Sure thing.”
“Is the deal closed?”
“Not yet, ten days.”
“Got it. Thanks again.”
Buck gripped wood grain and peeled tires out of the parking lot. He would have stayed in the streets longer, but now, he needed a second alone, in his element. Pushing two hundred horses down the strip of road leading back home, he turned up his comfort tunes.
Highway 56 snaked across the continent. From Lightbridge, to Ravensguard, and continuing through Brasshorne. It ended at the tip of the world, Frostwinds Edge.
Four territories with four crowns.
Buck groaned, parked in the garage, and killed the engine. He cleared the vehicle and sneaked through the side door. Left of the detached garage was the wood. A dense thicket holding his past and dearest of memories. Before crossing the tree line, Buck tugged off his boots and t-shirt.
Barefoot and half naked, he entered the dark beyond and whispered hello to the sneaky elm, old oak, and wise willow.
“What in the hell y’all been up to? Boy, do I got some crazy shit to tell you.”

Chapter Five Coming!

Do I like Jasper? Yes. I do. She’s cute and rugged. I’ve made it my duty to get to know this woman. I have to, I want-no, scratch that, I need to know her secrets. There’s something about Jasper I can’t place. She’s surprised me with her charm. And for a vampire my age, that don’t come easy. So, naturally, I wanna show her around. And there ain’t no tour guide better than me. I’ve lived in Indigo Plains for a veeeeerry long time.– Nieema Sunside

Chapter 2: In Which An Invitation Is Extended

Jasper

“Where is it? Wher—yes!” Jasper found her favorite scarf in a box titled ‘books’. There were books inside but also, non-book items. With a telling whimper, she scurried into the bathroom and tied the rainbow silk length tight. The bright, colorful theme continued all the way down to her boots.
Pink overalls made her hips pop. Jasper had no business trying to look put together. She was celibate! A sexless succubi was a thing of myth, but she was here to defy the odds. Sex, love, and companionship brought nothing but pain into her life.
Of course, when a handsome couple lusted after you it said something. She hadn’t lost her touch. Jasper still had what folks wanted. From the tips of her gold-tipped horns to the soles of her feet she was…she was…

Jasper stared at her reflection in a cruddy, broken mirror and sighed. She was still trying to find herself. Trying to recover tiny shards after a terrible ordeal.
A shrill ring and clatter made her flinch. Jasper rushed from the washroom and saw to her phone. She smiled at the photo and name.

“Kit?”
“Hay.”
“What’s up, lovebug?”
“I… well… Jasper, I quit!”
Her heart bloomed with warmth and hope. “Oh, my god. Kit you didn’t. Oh shit. You, when—quit?”
“Yeah, and Dad’s pretty mad. I—that would make two of us and well—he kicked me out.”

Jasper stopped dead and stared at her laptop. She had orders and shit to fulfill but holy hell, she was going through a lot. Tugging on her necklaces she nodded as Kit went on about their father’s lecture and anger. The Duke was mad and who cared. Not every demon belonged in hell. Not every demon knew how to harvest souls, make contracts, or even kill. Jasper didn’t and had never committed murder. Other demons treated her like a pariah.

“Okay, Kit?”
“Mhm?”
“You’re gonna stay with me. Of course. No questions asked.”
“Are you sure? I don’t want to…”
Her brother mumbled as always, doubting his usefulness and station in her life.
“Yes! Now shut up and get over here. And hay—“
A heavy-handed knock had her jumping out of her skin.
“Just come right in, don’t knock. I’m having my house looked at. Don’t mind the mess and behave. Also, that fucking cat stays outsi—“
“He’s not a feral outside cat!”
“I don’t—“
A third knock put her in motion. “I gotta go. See you in a minute.”
“Kay. Bye.”

Jasper ended their call and jogged downstairs, forgetting about the warped wood. She slipped on the second to last step and stumbled into the vestibule. “Holy god damn.” She was a mess and in a hurry, it seemed. The Sunsides were attractive and soooo off-limits. She hadn’t participated in a threesome in years. Not that it was an option, because it wasn’t. Jasper set aside her obsession with vampires and her curiosity about Buck Sunside to open the door.

“Hayyy.” Jasper waved a hand. “Come in. And watch your step.”
“Forgive Buck,” Nieema said, crossing the threshold. She carried herself like a queen and resembled one. “He’s in writing mode. Ain’t no talking while he’s walking. I’m going to throw some things at him and he’ll jot it all down.”

Jasper scrunched her nose as Nieema turned up hers. She was a gorgeous Black goddess with obsidian skin and a shock of teal braids. They were bound in an elegant crown and suited her regal features.

“Water damage,” Nieema pipped, strolling into what might be formal living one day. Jasper loved the giant fireplace. “Mold damage. Termites are having a time wallowing in their rot. The floors gotta go. There’s a leak below. Solid bones, though.”
Nieema stomped twice and nodded.
“The foundation is crumbling, child. I can hear mice chattering in the walls and squirrels are in the attic. They’ve chewed through the wiring, I’m sure. I wouldn’t turn on a single light if I was you.’
“They don’t work,” Jasper added, though given the lanterns and fake candles, Nieema probably knew.

Buck followed his wife, scribbling every word. They traveled through the house, making Jasper dizzy. There was shit wrong she hadn’t even noticed. They conversed about what to do in the kitchen, leaving her to stare.
Buck was enormous. Taller than them both. Nieema was tiny, maybe five-two, so everyone was taller than her. But it wasn’t every day Jasper found a man over six-two. And he was at least six-three, perhaps five. His brawn caught her quick, but his mysterious nature and impeccable bone structure captured her attention. She found his down-home country attire funny next to the Mrs. Nieema dressed as if she fronted a metal band.
Corsets, chokers, matte lips, and the color black. Yesterday it was a corset dress. Today it was leather pants. Her bottom—

“Jasper? Hello?!”
“You expecting somebody?” Buck asked.
“Shit, Kit. I’ll be right back.”
Jasper hightailed it out of the musty pantry to see about her brother.

Buck

The house was a piece of shit. On a quiet, cozy street it was an eyesore. Boarded, abandoned, and inhaling its last breath. Buck smelled rot and decay. The wood swelled and them termites, yeah. They were eating good. Mother fuckers. Nobody should be living in this house. It was one light breeze away from collapsing. He heard every creak, groan, and snap. Beams screamed under their weight and bolts rattled.

“She shouldn’t be staying here, mama.”
“I was about to say the same. This place is a ruin. I’m wondering how much Hawk Shade got outta her. It ain’t worth more than ten thousand. Knowing his greedy ass he milked the poor woman.”
“You know it too.”

Buck opened a crooked cupboard door and let it slap to a close. Her house was in dire need of an overhaul. There wasn’t shit worth repairing, everything had to go. Down to the nails.
Jasper’s voice was a nice distraction. She entered the kitchen with a stout young man who was much older than he appeared. He cradled an ugly, fat, hairy cat and shook his head.
“What a—Jasper are staying here? It smells terrible. I can taste the mildew. I can get sick. My chest feels funky…”

Nieema hummed in her way and twirled, facing the duo. They were kin, Buck saw it in the eyes. As his wife dallied and pulled on a wobbly drawer, he got to thinking.
“This fella is right, don’t ya know.”
“I’m sorry?”
“Well…” Nieema examined the sink and clucked her tongue. “It’s a health hazard, a health violation. I wouldn’t allow nobody to stay up in here, much less let you buy the place. The realtor was wrong, Jasper. Now, if you want us to fix the house fine. But I can’t imagine y’all staying here overnight. I know you demonic and all, but it smells nasty, looks worse and where is this man gonna sleep? Like I said, I can—“

The second a Wicker Spider come bursting through the floor, Buck pushed the soft fella into the pantry and slammed the door. The eight-legged beast was foul, quick, and mad as a wet hen. They clawed for Jasper who had jumped on the counter.
Nieema was bucking on the fucker like the rodeo goddess she was.
“Don’t worry, mama! Imma—“ He spotted a cast iron skillet in a box and snatched it. The creature with razor thorns lining each limb flailed about and lunged at him. As Jasper screamed and the man in the closet cried, Buck bashed the thousand-eyed freak in the head. “That’s it, baby! Get that sucka!”
Nieema tore into its gray, fibrous exoskeleton. “Don’t let it scratch you!”
“WomanI been fight—“

He danced with the screeching as it tried and failed to throw his wife off. With a final blow, he called every root beneath and above. Vines, nettles, brambles, and barbed boughs fractured planks and studs. They snaked through wallpaper, around rusted pipes, and weaseled through outlets.
From below and behind, branches and trunks pierced the giant bug, spraying guts everywhere.
Nieema shred them to bits until it collapsed in a heap and wheezed. Their neon green eyes flickered and died as its vitality waned.

“Well at least there won’t be much to dismantle up in here.”
Nieema laughed and Buck rushed to her aid. He helped his sweet darlin’ down off the beast.
“Don’t be funny, Buck. She’s terrified.” Nieema extended a gentle hand and Jasper squeezed it. She helped the shaken woman onto her feet. “I think you got more than a termite infestation. Which is even more reason for you and the—“
Jasper cursed and waved at the mess Buck done made.
“My brother!”
“Oh my. Honey, I am sorry. Buck, get the man outta there!”
“Yes ma’am.”
Buck, thanks to his Drendt side, had a way with nature and a strong connection plants. The mess of thorns, sticks, and needles parted for him like any pair of curtain might. He rushed to free poor boy.

“Oh my god is that Wicker Spider?!” Jasper;s kin balked, holding their cat close.
“Mhm.”
“How did it get here?”
“Probably migrated or was brought over by a no good sumabitch. You let these heffas start making babies and you’ll be in a world of trouble. They love meat, ya know?”
“Meat?”
The man was sweating now, and that cat was a fuckin’ mess. His deep brick complexion was washed and damp. Given how his horns were sawed down Buck would wager he wasn’t no killing demon.

“They sure not herbivores,” Nieema said. “Now, seeing as your kitchen is gone and we don’t know if this thing has created a nest, I think you should stay someplace else.”
Jasper nodded as she tugged her brother’s arm. She looked him over and agreed. “Okay. Yeah. Whatever. We’ll get a hotel and—“
“Didn’t nobody say nothing about a hotel, Missy.”
Jasper whipped her head around. “Wait, what?”
“We have more than enough room on our ranch.”
“Nieema, I—“
“That’s settled. Come on now. Get a bag and let’s get going. I got ox tails and rice on the menu.”
Jasper looked to Buck, as if he’d intervene. First of all, what Nieema says goes. And second, he wanted and needed to know her better. This was a fine invitation and beneficial for everyone involved. He smiled and nodded, his wife was never wrong about these things.

Patchwork and Pitchforks

Be prepared for fluff, steam, romance, and paranormal happenings!

After Jasper Marrow relocates to Indigo Plains she’s prepared for paint, hammers, and broken nails. What she finds on moving day is more than she cares to deal with. Busted pipes, growing mold, and an eager-to-please married couple offer too much excitement for one night.

All Jasper wants is her new-ish house fixed and perhaps exorcised. When the happy duo extends a helping hand and free temporary housing, she has no choice but to accept.

This isn’t close to what I normally write, but I wanted something cute on Whitney Houston’s internet. I’ve been trying to do light and fluffy for months. And I don’t know, I thought why not put it out there.

Black Love & Vampires

This is my first read by Nikki Clarke and I was pleasantly surprised. Not only did the steam deliver, but the plot was meaningful. Now, keep in mind, I don’t read dark romance (much) I’m not sure if this counts, but tonally? It is an off-black. With past traumas and hell-on-earth flashbacks of their time as slaves, I thought it was dark and heavy. Which, is fine. I often write about the same subjects when talking about vampires. If, I am writing urban fantasy.

Though the topic may be hard to read for some, don’t let that stop you. This is a story of BLACK LOVE and I for one, loved the moments between Noah and Li were cute and sooooo spicy. They served the latter up quick and in a hurry. Coming in at sixty-ish pages, Taste is a shorty but packed with life and love. I adored it and would categorize it as Erotic Romance. Though my knowledge of the subgenre is loose, I read HELLA erotica shorts. I enjoyed the story of everlasting love and vampires. That is my shit! It’s my bread, butter, jam (i hate jelly), and peanut butter! These two gave me fangs and blood in equal doses!

But again, read them Content Warnings! Pleeeeease. There is on- page, blood, memories of murder, and attempted murder. Also, I’m on the fence about the consent. I think Taste is a solid dubcon. I don’t read books with that trope much but I’m sure it fits.

Fear, My Best Buddy!

For years and years annnnnd years, I’ve let fear run amok. It’s controlled many parts of my life, I threw away huuuuge opportunities because of such cowardice. My lack of spine, and lack of faith in self! I let doubts and impending criticism hold me back from sooo much.
But sis, bro, them!I am so over it. I have been a writer for seventeen long arse years. I have written scripts, poetry and scribbled ideas on napkins, journals and receipts. I have finished 16 MS! No one, has read so much as a word. Not one person, why? Cause I scarwed, or was. I was terrified of someone saying, “yo, this is garbage.” After I’ve just spent months pouring my whole soul into 120k words.
I was polarized and mortified by the mere thought of criticism. Not that I think I’m above it, absolutely not. No, it’s someone looking at my work and thinking I’m no good, cause I wanna be good, I wanna be a published author. And, I think I’m good, I do. I think I’ve got a knack for it, but what if someone disagrees?! That’s the scary part. Thing is, with age, I’ve grown less concerned with what others think of me, what I wear, or how I choose to live my life. For the life of me, I can’t find those same set of balls when it comes to writing.
Letting strangers read what I’ve written is exposing! I think that’s what it boils down to. People get to see what’s inside my dark, dank, attic which some would call a brain. It strips me bare for all to see, and perhaps that’s what I’m fearful of most. But by gods of Olympus, I’m sick of it y’all, I am done! Ya girl is fresh out of excuses. If I want people to read what I have, even ten sets of eyes, I will mush on! I want someone to see this world full of vampires and demons that reside in my head for weeks on end.
I feel it’s time you know, to throw caution to the wind and say, F it! Some will hate it, I am not delusional about this, there will be folks who will give it one star. But, that comes with the territory. Life as a storyteller isn’t easy, but if I can write it, I can publish it.

Fourth Book Blues!

I loooooove writing book series! I mean, I really enjoy it! I tend to have a lot going on for my MC’s. Once they start talking it takes a long while for them to shut up. Which I am not complaining about. Cause well, when they go dark it’s typically in their last book. Hearing them gets harder and they often don’t know what to do or where to go by then. I often refer to myself as a messenger cause I don’t seek out much. Everything comes along naturally. But during the fourth and typically final installment things get stagnant. Not in W*iters B*ock (I hate that word) sorta way, but more of a slow crawl to the finish line. Third acts and the last hundred pages are a pain in the arse to write. I don’t know what it is, but I’ve had this issue for two years. Eventually I type “The End” but it’s a hassle getting there. And being that I’m on a fourth novel as we speak, the turtle pace has begun. I am feeling the drag!