Chapter 22: This Life & The Next

“You can take it, darlin’.” Buck put his weight on Nieema, stealing her will to breathe. “Yeeeeah. That’s it. You like it heavy!” Buck growled as the missus moaned.
“I dooooo. Ohh—Bu—uck! There, baby. Right theeerrre.”
He focused on her sweet spot and she whimpered as bones popped.
“Yes,” Nieema groaned. “Crack my shit, baby. Stomp on that bitch! I said harder, old man.”
“I’m doing it.”
“You ain’t.”
Buck rolled his eyes and stepped on her spine. She hollered in pleasure. “A vampire your age shouldn’t have back problems or any physical ailments at all. Them babies fucked you up, darlin’.”
“Yeah! And who put them, babies in there?”
An ugly belly laugh bubbled up from Buck’s gut as he stamped on his wife’s back.
Buck spent twenty minutes, once a week stepping on Nieema’s spine. Most vampires who conceived had some small physical issue. Pregnancy was hard even on immortal folk and orcs alike.
“And I’ll do it again,” Buck vowed.
“I know that’s right,” Nieema said, hands tucked under her chin. “Fill me up, daddy!”
“Nasty mouth.”
They laughed as Buck continued his business of jumping on her. She was a sturdy gal and loved about three or four hops. When something popped, she moaned once more.
“Darlin’,” Buck started, pressing the ball of his foot into her shoulder, “you heard from Jasper yet?”
“Uhhhm. No.”
“She ain’t come out the house yet, and I’m getting worried.”
“Buckley, we don’t know her well. Maybe she’s a homebody.”
“I mean, yeah, but after the other night she disappeared.”
“Hm. Weirrrd.”
Buck paused and squinted. Her response was short and squeaky.
“Nieema Desiree Falerie Sunside, what did you do?”
“Why do I gotta do something?”
“‘Cause you did.”
“You don’t know shit.”
She didn’t even look up at him. The betrayal. Buck cussed, lowering to the floor. He joined Nieema and lay on her body. She was more comfortable than hardwood. Though his wood was now pressed into her dimpled ass. Buck ignored the tempting juggle and cushion for the moment.
“Nieema.”
The woman smacked her teeth and said, “We were having such a good time, and I figured—she was into it and me. Jasper was interested, earnest, and assertive. She gave proper consent and everything.”
“You did not.”
“Shit, she was quick putting a hand down my pants, and I wanted to taste her. So, you know, naturally, we ended up downstairs. After our climax, she vanished. I think I spooked her.”
Buck knew it had something to do with sex. Nieema was an intense, impulsive vampire with a high sex drive. He’d been dealing with her pangs for a hundred years. They had their ways and proclivities as a couple, but Buck didn’t always think with his dick.
True, he wanted to make it flex with Jasper. Cut the demon down for about an hour or so, but he had a feeling she wasn’t ready.
“Nieema, baby. Why you have to go and do that?” Buck rolled off of his wife and eyed her. The woman knew better than to meet his stare and didn’t. “She was celibate. You heard her just fine.”
“Yes, but you weren’t there. Jasper was about to take lead on the matter. I had to calm her down, shit. That’s not how this show go. Not yet, at least. That woman was on fire. Just sick about it, baby.”
He stood and marched on over to Nieema’s vanity. He snagged the scissors, pulled the chair, and short whistled. She rose with vampire agility, defying gravity as if it didn’t exist. After sprinting over, she sidled up, and sat down.
Buck snagged a twenty-four-inch braid and snipped the end. With practiced ease, he unraveled and loosened the thick strand.
“I know how you feel about wanting to bed her down, but I think, you jumped it.” He discarded the hair into the plastic bag that waited in Nieema’s lap while she mumbled curses. The old woman knew she was wrong, so he didn’t have to say it. “Sweetpea, Jasper moved out here to get away from drama.”
“And we ain’t bringing none to her.”
“Maybe to you this ain’t drama, but for her, it could be a lot.”
“I thought you were in a hurry, Buckley. You the one making bets and shit.”
“That was for a nice dinner, not no thick dick!”
“Well, that’s what I thought.”
“Of course you did, freaky.”
Nieema chuckled, clipping the ends of a braid. They used the next ten minutes to take down her hair with normal chit chat about the family. Norma was on her way, Mace was in marriage troubles, and Trey had another baby on the way with his ex-wife. That was some mess for your ass, but that was his life. Couldn’t tell him or them anything.
Buck tried to steer their babies and grand babies right, but after a certain age, there wasn‘t no changing their minds.
“Jo tell you Trevor wants to press charges?” Buck asked, raising a brow.
“I know he does.”
“That was a love tap! Pussy.”
“I doubt it.”
“Who side is you on?” Buck asked, checking the wife’s reflection, making her giggle. “Mhm. See what I get? Disrespect.”
“That man got what’s coming to him,” Nieema said, pulling free another blue strip of hair. “Monroe is in Misthill now. He can’t seem to get an appointment with the Mayor. He’s indisposed. I sent him a summons.”
“Mm. Had to put on the crown, huh?”
“Unfortunately.”
“At least you look good wearing it.” She smiled, and Buck kissed her thick, natural mane. “I’m sure we’ll get this settled nice and easy.”
“The Voaremonts aren’t known for rolling over, Buck.”
“We ain’t either.”
“I know that’s right.”
After cutting a few more ends, he loosened braids as Nieema breached the Jasper subject yet again.
“I gave her a job at the shop.”
“I mean, we need the help, but do you think she’ll be okay? I still don’t wanna let her outta my sight.”
“I told Maggie about it,” Nieema reassured. “She’s willing to charm the store.”
“That’s quick thinking, my love. On your toes!”
“Aren’t I always?”
Buck barked in laughter and trashed his last batch of hair. “Hell nah.”
“I know you better hush.”
“What? I’m supposed to lie? You said there ain’t to be no lies or secrets between us. I will hold to the vow we made allllll them manymanymany years ago. I know you probably don’t remember. Senile self. We gotta get you to bed, it’s late, Grandma!”
“Shhuuut uuuup.” She cackled right along with Buck. “And it’s you who gon’ put me to bed.”
“Damn skippy!”
As always, Nieema and Buck found solace in each other. There wasn’t a quiet, dull moment between them. After decades, ten and some change, they’d become the best of friends. Marrying the person who made him laugh was the best decision of his life.
The night they’d met, he’d made her chuckle and vice versa. Within hours, Buck had become enamored with some Ravensguard soldier he was likely to never see again.
After a passionate day in bed, Buck had said goodbye. He promised to find her someday.
Turns out he didn’t have to look hard, because ten years later, Nieema showed up at the tavern wearing his favorite smile.
“Ooooooo baaaaby, listen!” Nieema relaxed as Buck scratched her scalp. He focused on the middle of her head and the kitchen, just how Mrs. Sunside liked it. “You know how to use them hands… mmmm, yes you do. Little to the left, litt—ooop!”
Buck cackled and carried on with their routine, which led to the bathroom. These times, the few they shared with such busy lives and a large family, he cherished. They were his priority. Taking care of his dame wasn’t always top of mind. Buck regretted them days, when he didn’t put Nieema first. She belonged on the pedestal he’d built only for her.
After washing, rinsing, and stripping down to nothing, he covered Nieema’s conditioner-soaked tresses with an extra-large shower cap.
“Thereeee you go.” Buck popped the elastic, and Nieema flinched. “Now come here and get what’s coming to ya.”
She giggled as Buck plucked her plush behind off the tile and carried her right on into the shower stall.
Steam laced with lavender and chamomile soothed the mind while Nieema’s lips roused every nerve.
Scolding hot water pelted his back and cascaded, dripping from his tight braid. With little finesse and impatience, Buck set his woman on a stone bench and loomed.
“Well,” Nieema prompted, “go on and satisfy your vicious sweet tooth.”
Her crimson stare provoked several emotions. Buck had never been one to beg or snivel for pussy. That was until he’d met Nieema. He’d snuff the sun if it’d bring this woman peace. He’d vanquish all evil and become the worst version of himself if it pleased his queen.
Nieema spread her delicious thighs and blessed him. Plump and glistening, her southern lips beckoned a motha fucka. She wept for a kiss, and he’d never deny Nieema a thing in this world.
Buck’s knees gave as he was enchanted by velvety brown softness and glittering blush pink. Nieema presented herself and dipped a finger between what he knew to be sopping wet walls.
Buck growled and bristled, snatching her hand away.
“Hands off my goods, old woman.”
She laughed and undulated, cupping her buxom bosom. Nieema’s scent drew him closer.
Buck kissed her flesh, and she hissed. He sniffed and grunted, growling as the beast within longed to devour.
Her wetness coated his lips as he circled her large clit with his nose. His wife was insecure about her precious rosebud. For a time, she hated how it protruded and swelled with her arousal. It took time, care, and reassurance.
Buck loved to suck and tease her large clit.
“Mmmm,” Nieema moaned with every kiss and nuzzle. “Babbbee, pleaaase.”
“You so fuckin’ wet, woman.” Buck clutched his dick and flicked her with the tip of his pierced tongue. “I need another batch for my tea. I’m almost out.”
“You know what you gotta do.”
He responded by suckling her button and mashing his god damn face into her pussy. Buck worked her clit. Around and around while Nieema rocked slowly. She sang his favorite melody and melted with every lazy lave and lap. He sipped from her with gladness and appreciation.
Buck swallowed her rich decadence and vowed once again to be her last devotee. If there was no one left to bow, he’d be the queen’s final hand to bend the knee. If there were none to adore her, he’d be there to shower her in affection. He’d be the last to obey the Ravensguard queen. His final breath would be that of dedication! Of his love, in this life and the next. Until the goddess called him to the Soil of Soul Buck promised to stand tall at Nieema’s side.
Mating be damneed. In truth, he didn’t need it. His lifeblood was hers the second they spoke.
“Oooo shit!” Nieema keened. “You like how I taste, love?”
He responded by gripping her hips. Buck yanked Nieema forward and gorged on his favorite meal of the night until she thrashed, on the cusp.
It was in the tremble of her words and curl of her chubby toes.
Buck studied her body, inside and out. Her arch stiffened and lip curled.
Buck stopped, and Nieema roared. Panting, she pulled his braid and cursed.
“You had better have a good reason, fairy boy!”
He only laughed and stood, taking her with him. Leaving her no room to complain, Buck hoisted Nieema high and flipped her ass.
Nieema cackled as she dangled upside down. This woman loved her some vertical sixty-nine, and once she got to sucking, so did Buck. With her pussy at home on his tongue and thighs framing his face, he lapped with fierce edge.
Nieema’s nectar turned a decent fae feral. As her soul mate, fated, and begging fool, he dove headfirst. And his queen was no slouch, taking him deep.
Buck stumbled and leaned against wet tile, locking himself in place. He lashed at her clit and drank from her blessed fount.
Nieema coughed and cussed. “Ooooo shit! Bite it, baby! Bite—“
Buck tensed as she swallowed him down from root to stem. There was nothing left to do but deep throat.
He came up for air and shouted to the Goddess. His eyes rolled as Nieema sucked him down and continued, nuts and all. Her jaw unhinged, and she devoured.
Claimed and choked.
“Youuuuu devilish slut!” Buck roared. He growled, thrusts meeting her sinful rhythm.
“I’mmmm—ooweeeee…” Needing to shatter and release, Buck screwed his eyes shut and penetrated her with his thickening tongue. The pierced muscle caused her majesty to squirm and writhe, body slick and plush.
Buck tightened his hold and fucked his beloved in quickened fashion. He curled the tip and twirled, twisted, tasted.
She moaned and bobbed, using that neck for the greater good. Sweat and water collected between them, dripping from toes and nipples.
Nieema clung to him, scoring his thighs. Buck grunted and lavished her with his love. Nieema pumped and rolled as he punched. Their shared desire and passion coalesced and seeped through bone.
It pooled in the marrow and heated, setting his soul to a rolling boil.
Buck clutched her ass and drove his tongue deeper. He was set to tear this woman apart until she bit down and let him loose. His spine steeled, and thighs burned with the effort to remain standing.
His fight and refusal to fold were futile. Nieema pulled an orgasm from the body, leaving him for dead. Euphoria sprouted from every cell and limb, enveloping him completely. She wrenched it from the root, and he attacked her gushing pussy without delay.
The woman howled as Buck lost the use of his legs. They’d turned to moss and were unable to bear his weight. Before his ass collided with the floor, Nieema belted his name and flexed them vampire skills by righting herself in half a second.
When his behind greeted wet tile, Buck laughed, allowing his queen to straddle.
“You ain’t tired?!” Nieema kissed his neck and cupped his stiffening dick. “Damn woman, you gon’ put me in the coffin one day.”
“And I will be right there with you, old dog.”
They shared a bout of laughter and reconnected. No matter the time, day, or year, there’d never come a moment when Buck Sunside would ever get enough. She was the mother of his children, the beat of his heart, and the rich soil nourishing his soul. .

“You can take it, darlin’.” Buck put his weight on Nieema, stealing her will to breathe. “Yeeeeah. That’s it. You like it heavy!” Buck growled as the missus moaned.
“I dooooo. Ohh—Bu—uck! There, baby. Right theeerrre.”
He focused on her sweet spot and she whimpered as bones popped.
“Yes,” Nieema groaned. “Crack my shit, baby. Stomp on that bitch! I said harder, old man.”
“I’m doing it.”
“You ain’t.”
Buck rolled his eyes and stepped on her spine. She hollered in pleasure. “A vampire your age shouldn’t have back problems or any physical ailments at all. Them babies fucked you up, darlin’.”
“Yeah! And who put them, babies in there?”
An ugly belly laugh bubbled up from Buck’s gut as he stamped on his wife’s back.
Buck spent twenty minutes, once a week stepping on Nieema’s spine. Most vampires who conceived had some small physical issue. Pregnancy was hard even on immortal folk and orcs alike.
“And I’ll do it again,” Buck vowed.
“I know that’s right,” Nieema said, hands tucked under her chin. “Fill me up, daddy!”
“Nasty mouth.”
They laughed as Buck continued his business of jumping on her. She was a sturdy gal and loved about three or four hops. When something popped, she moaned once more.
“Darlin,” Buck started, pressing the ball of his foot into her shoulder, “you heard from Jasper yet?”
“Uhhhm. No.”
“She ain’t come out the house yet, and I’m getting worried.”
“Buckley, we don’t know her well. Maybe she’s a homebody.”
“I mean, yeah, but after the other night she disappeared.”
“Hm. Weirrrd.”
Buck paused and squinted. Her response was short and squeaky.
“Nieema Desiree Falerie Sunside, what did you do?”
“Why do I gotta do something?”
“‘Cause you did.”
“You don’t know shit.”
She didn’t even look up at him. The betrayal. Buck cussed, lowering to the floor. He joined Nieema and lay on her body. She was more comfortable than hardwood. Though his wood was now pressed into her dimpled ass. Buck ignored the tempting juggle and cushion for the moment.
“Nieema.”
The woman smacked her teeth and said, “We were having such a good time, and I figured—she was into it and me. Jasper was interested, earnest, and assertive. She gave proper consent and everything.”
“You did not.”
“Shit, she was quick putting a hand down my pants, and I wanted to taste her. So, you know, naturally, we ended up downstairs. After our climax, she vanished. I think I spooked her.”
Buck knew it had something to do with sex. Nieema was an intense, impulsive vampire with a high sex drive. He’d been dealing with her pangs for a hundred years. They had their ways and proclivities as a couple, but Buck didn’t always think with his dick.
True, he wanted to make it flex with Jasper. Cut the demon down for about an hour or so, but he had a feeling she wasn’t ready.
“Nieema, baby. Why you have to go and do that?” Buck rolled off of his wife and eyed her. The woman knew better than to meet his stare and didn’t. “She was celibate. You heard her just fine.”
“Yes, but you weren’t there. Jasper was about to take lead on the matter. I had to calm her down, shit. That’s not how this show go. Not yet, at least. That woman was on fire. Just sick about it, baby.”
He stood and marched on over to Nieema’s vanity. He snagged the scissors, pulled the chair, and short whistled. She rose with vampire agility, defying gravity as if it didn’t exist. After sprinting over, she sidled up, and sat down.
Buck snagged a twenty-four-inch braid and snipped the end. With practiced ease, he unraveled and loosened the thick strand.
“I know how you feel about wanting to bed her down, but I think, you jumped it.” He discarded the hair into the plastic bag that waited in Nieema’s lap while she mumbled curses. The old woman knew she was wrong, so he didn’t have to say it. “Sweetpea, Jasper moved out here to get away from drama.”
“And we ain’t bringing none to her.”
“Maybe to you this ain’t drama, but for her, it could be a lot.”
“I thought you were in a hurry, Buckley. You the one making bets and shit.”
“That was for a nice dinner, not no thick dick!”
“Well, that’s what I thought.”
“Of course you did, freaky.”
Nieema chuckled, clipping the ends of a braid. They used the next ten minutes to take down her hair with normal chit chat about the family. Norma was on her way, Mace was in marriage troubles, and Trey had another baby on the way with his ex-wife. That was some mess for your ass, but that was his life. Couldn’t tell him or them anything.
Buck tried to steer their babies and grand babies right, but after a certain age, there wasn‘t no changing their minds.
“Jo tell you Trevor wants to press charges?” Buck asked, raising a brow.
“I know he does.”
“That was a love tap! Pussy.”
“I doubt it.”
“Who side is you on?” Buck asked, checking the wife’s reflection, making her giggle. “Mhm. See what I get? Disrespect.”
“That man got what’s coming to him,” Nieema said, pulling free another blue strip of hair. “Monroe is in Misthill now. He can’t seem to get an appointment with the Mayor. He’s indisposed. I sent him a summons.”
“Mm. Had to put on the crown, huh?”
“Unfortunately.”
“At least you look good wearing it.” She smiled, and Buck kissed her thick, natural mane. “I’m sure we’ll get this settled nice and easy.”
“The Voaremonts aren’t known for rolling over, Buck.”
“We ain’t either.”
“I know that’s right.”
After cutting a few more ends, he loosened braids as Nieema breached the Jasper subject yet again.
“I gave her a job at the shop.”
“I mean, we need the help, but do you think she’ll be okay? I still don’t wanna let her outta my sight.”
“I told Maggie about it,” Nieema reassured. “She’s willing to charm the store.”
“That’s quick thinking, my love. On your toes!”
“Aren’t I always?”
Buck barked in laughter and trashed his last batch of hair. “Hell nah.”
“I know you better hush.”
“What? I’m supposed to lie? You said there ain’t to be no lies or secrets between us. I will hold to the vow we made allllll them manymanymany years ago. I know you probably don’t remember. Senile self. We gotta get you to bed, it’s late, Grandma!”
“Shhuuut uuuup.” She cackled right along with Buck. “And it’s you who gon’ put me to bed.”
“Damn skippy!”
As always, Nieema and Buck found solace in each other. There wasn’t a quiet, dull moment between them. After decades, ten and some change, they’d become the best of friends. Marrying the person who made him laugh was the best decision of his life.
The night they’d met, he’d made her chuckle and vice versa. Within hours, Buck had become enamored with some Ravensguard soldier he was likely to never see again.
After a passionate day in bed, Buck had said goodbye. He promised to find her someday.
Turns out he didn’t have to look hard, because ten years later, Nieema showed up at the tavern wearing his favorite smile.
“Ooooooo baaaaby, listen!” Nieema relaxed as Buck scratched her scalp. He focused on the middle of her head and the kitchen, just how Mrs. Sunside liked it. “You know how to use them hands… mmmm, yes you do. Little to the left, litt—ooop!”
Buck cackled and carried on with their routine, which led to the bathroom. These times, the few they shared with such busy lives and a large family, he cherished. They were his priority. Taking care of his dame wasn’t always top of mind. Buck regretted them days, when he didn’t put Nieema first. She belonged on the pedestal he’d built only for her.
After washing, rinsing, and stripping down to nothing, he covered Nieema’s conditioner-soaked tresses with an extra-large shower cap.
“Thereeee you go.” Buck popped the elastic, and Nieema flinched. “Now come here and get what’s coming to ya.”
She giggled as Buck plucked her plush behind off the tile and carried her right on into the shower stall.
Steam laced with lavender and chamomile soothed the mind while Nieema’s lips roused every nerve.
Scolding hot water pelted his back and cascaded, dripping from his tight braid. With little finesse and impatience, Buck set his woman on a stone bench and loomed.
“Well,” Nieema prompted, “go on and satisfy your vicious sweet tooth.”
Her crimson stare provoked several emotions. Buck had never been one to beg or snivel for pussy. That was until he’d met Nieema. He’d snuff the sun if it’d bring this woman peace. He’d vanquish all evil and become the worst version of himself if it pleased his queen.
Nieema spread her delicious thighs and blessed him. Plump and glistening, her southern lips beckoned a motha fucka. She wept for a kiss, and he’d never deny Nieema a thing in this world.
Buck’s knees gave as he was enchanted by velvety brown softness and glittering blush pink. Nieema presented herself and dipped a finger between what he knew to be sopping wet walls.
Buck growled and bristled, snatching her hand away.
“Hands off my goods, old woman.”
She laughed and undulated, cupping her buxom bosom. Nieema’s scent drew him closer.
Buck kissed her flesh, and she hissed. He sniffed and grunted, growling as the beast within longed to devour.
Her wetness coated his lips as he circled her large clit with his nose. His wife was insecure about her precious rosebud. For a time, she hated how it protruded and swelled with her arousal. It took time, care, and reassurance.
Buck loved to suck and tease her large clit.
“Mmmm,” Nieema moaned with every kiss and nuzzle. “Babbbee, pleaaase.”
“You so fuckin’ wet, woman.” Buck clutched his dick and flicked her with the tip of his pierced tongue. “I need another batch for my tea. I’m almost out.”
“You know what you gotta do.”
He responded by suckling her button and mashing his god damn face into her pussy. Buck worked her clit. Around and around while Nieema rocked slowly. She sang his favorite melody and melted with every lazy lave and lap. He sipped from her with gladness and appreciation.
Buck swallowed her rich decadence and vowed once again to be her last devotee. If there was no one left to bow, he’d be the queen’s final hand to bend the knee. If there were none to adore her, he’d be there to shower her in affection. He’d be the last to obey the Ravensguard queen. His final breath would be that of dedication! Of his love, in this life and the next. Until the goddess called him to the Soil of Soul Buck promised to stand tall at Nieema’s side.
Mating be damneed. In truth, he didn’t need it. His lifeblood was hers the second they spoke.
“Oooo shit!” Nieema keened. “You like how I taste, love?”
He responded by gripping her hips. Buck yanked Nieema forward and gorged on his favorite meal of the night until she thrashed, on the cusp.
It was in the tremble of her words and curl of her chubby toes.
Buck studied her body, inside and out. Her arch stiffened and lip curled.
Buck stopped, and Nieema roared. Panting, she pulled his braid and cursed.
“You had better have a good reason, fairy boy!”
He only laughed and stood, taking her with him. Leaving her no room to complain, Buck hoisted Nieema high and flipped her ass.
Nieema cackled as she dangled upside down. This woman loved her some vertical sixty-nine, and once she got to sucking, so did Buck. With her pussy at home on his tongue and thighs framing his face, he lapped with fierce edge.
Nieema’s nectar turned a decent fae feral. As her soul mate, fated, and begging fool, he dove headfirst. And his queen was no slouch, taking him deep.
Buck stumbled and leaned against wet tile, locking himself in place. He lashed at her clit and drank from her blessed fount.
Nieema coughed and cussed. “Ooooo shit! Bite it, baby! Bite—“
Buck tensed as she swallowed him down from root to stem. There was nothing left to do but deep throat.
He came up for air and shouted to the Goddess. His eyes rolled as Nieema sucked him down and continued, nuts and all. Her jaw unhinged, and she devoured.
Claimed and choked.
“Youuuuu devilish slut!” Buck roared. He growled, thrusts meeting her sinful rhythm.
“I’mmmm—ooweeeee…” Needing to shatter and release, Buck screwed his eyes shut and penetrated her with his thickening tongue. The pierced muscle caused her majesty to squirm and writhe, body slick and plush.
Buck tightened his hold and fucked his beloved in quickened fashion. He curled the tip and twirled, twisted, tasted.
She moaned and bobbed, using that neck for the greater good. Sweat and water collected between them, dripping from toes and nipples.
Nieema clung to him, scoring his thighs. Buck grunted and lavished her with his love. Nieema pumped and rolled as he punched. Their shared desire and passion coalesced and seeped through bone.
It pooled in the marrow and heated, setting his soul to a rolling boil.
Buck clutched her ass and drove his tongue deeper. He was set to tear this woman apart until she bit down and let him loose. His spine steeled, and thighs burned with the effort to remain standing.
His fight and refusal to fold were futile. Nieema pulled an orgasm from the body, leaving him for dead. Euphoria sprouted from every cell and limb, enveloping him completely. She wrenched it from the root, and he attacked her gushing pussy without delay.
The woman howled as Buck lost the use of his legs. They’d turned to moss and were unable to bear his weight. Before his ass collided with the floor, Nieema belted his name and flexed them vampire skills by righting herself in half a second.
When his behind greeted wet tile, Buck laughed, allowing his queen to straddle.
“You ain’t tired?!” Nieema kissed his neck and cupped his stiffening dick. “Damn woman, you gon’ put me in the coffin one day.”
“And I will be right there with you, old dog.”
They shared a bout of laughter and reconnected. No matter the time, day, or year, there’d never come a moment when Buck Sunside would ever get enough. She was the mother of his children, the beat of his heart, and the rich soil nourishing his soul.

Chapter 8: Brunch and Buck

Jasper

Waking at 2pm wasn’t bad. In fact, Jasper loved it. She figured later was best when on vampire time. After a lovely bath in a clawfoot tub, she marched out onto the porch and settled in the adorable swing. Typically, she listened to music and stitched, but with a natural symphony, she opted not to. This new kind of peace was jarring and yet, wonderful.
No matter the time of day their land enchanted her. Sheep, goats, and chickens of various sizes grazed as their canine wardens played with each other. Jasper focused on her project and fed the needle through crisp linen. She poked and pulled with a light hand, listening to birds sing their favorite tune.
It was beautiful up here, above ground, on land. Undervell didn’t have blue jays or robins. They had Tarlickers, Scorgefolls, and Stingburrs. The avian creatures resembled lizards more than anything else. The dust bird thing from last night reminded her of them, only without feathers and beaks.
Jasper smiled at the hint of sweet and woody. She drove the needle through and looked up to find Buck Sunside to her immediate right.
He leaned on the railing and laughed. “Well I’ll be god damn, that’s a unicorn riding a phallus.”
Jasper showcased her artwork and said, “It’s a commission.”
“Ain’t the wildest thing I’ve seen.”
“I bet.”
“So it’s true. You got the sewing bug, too. Shiiit. Some nights I wake up with a pin in my hair and thread in the crack of my ass.”
She stifled an ugly giggle and considered Buck for half a second. Sleeves rolled high like slut, Stetson tilted just so. He belonged on the red carpet, congregating with movie stars who looked like him. Burnished brown skin, full lips, and a black silk stare probably pulled them all within minutes.
“I wanted a hobby and found one,” Jasper said, petting embroidered knots. “You have no idea the type of shit people ask me for.”
“Oh yes, I do.” Buck slapped solid wood and set his sights beyond. “One time, somebody asked Nieema to make a quilt using their own hair and snake skin.”
“Whaaat?”
“Yeah. Old man Joyner. He live up in the mountains. Hermit. You know the type. Few bolts loose but sweet.”
“Ah.”
She hadn’t met a hermit and never wanted to. Refocused on her stitch, Jasper heard his heavy boots climb steps and clomp across the porch. She held her breath as he plopped down next to her without asking. This was, technically his house. His property.
Jasper wasn’t shy, especially around men, but Buck’s soul was dark, whereas his scent was sweet as cane sugar.
She’d like a nibble.
“I hear you lived in the capital?”
“I did.”
“For how long?”
His voice was a problem all its own.
“Nine years.”
Buck high whistled, snatching her attention. She checked on the smiling man and bit her tongue. He lounged with arms splayed and legs wide open. Arrogance wafted, and Jasper nearly took the bait, but she was stronger now. Staring wasn’t going to do a damn thing but piss her off a bit.
“I suppose,” Jasper chimed, “people fawn over you. They trip and fall. Maybe even faint. But you’re not as sly as you believe yourself to be. Have you forgotten that I’m a succubus? An old one who can sense your arousal half a mile out.”
Buck chuckled and shook his head. “Well, since you know then we clear on what is I want.”
“The answer is no. You can’t have it.”
“Fair enough.” He tipped his hat and reached into his pocket for a pack of gum. “I respect boundaries and I respect people.”
Jasper watched him shove a strip of cinnamon between his white teeth and wanted to bite him.
He respected boundaries?
She was befuddled by Buck’s quick acceptance. Men, especially male demons, rarely gave a shit about womens boundaries.
“Listen, I came by cause there’s some business you gotta handle. Papers and contracts to sign. I’m gonna take you on down to the office.”
“Oh, nice. Let me—“
“Jasper?” Kit called, stepping outside in an apron covered with flowers and flour. “Brunch is served. Hello, Buck. What a pleasant surprise. Would you like to join us?”
Buck snapped gum, checked his watch, and laughed. “I mean, sure, you’ll never see me turn down free food. But sir, you’re a few hours late for brunch.”
“Seeing as Jasper and I just woke, I’d say it’s a perfect time.” Kit clapped and ran inside. “This is exciting!”
Buck looked to Jasper and squinted. “How scared should I be?”
“In Undervell, he’s pretty good with a brick oven, but some of our ingredients are… weird. This is his first time making land dweller food.”
“Shit,” Buck grumbled. “I already committed, so I reckon there ain’t no turning back.”
“You can change your mind.”
“Hell no. I’m a man of my word.”
Jasper followed Buck inside, though in no hurry. She put her project in the basket near the sofa and examined the table. It didn’t look bad. Most of Kit’s offerings were standard.
“What we have is French toast, peach and cream crepes, fatty meats, and eggs from those chickens outside. I did have quite the adventure trying to collect them from various hiding places. Some of the ladies attacked me. They are quite feral.”
They both found a seat at the table and grabbed a plate.
“This looks amazin’, Kit,” Buck announced.
“Why, thank you! I don’t understand your measurement system well, but tutorials helped.”
Jasper adored how Kit straightened and beamed with pride. No one had ever cared about his mess in the kitchen. Their father said cooking was for lesser demons, not a Carriont heir.
After loading her plate, Jasper cut into the French toast and sampled it. Kit rushed over with his journal and bumped his knee as he tried to sit.
The old coot was nervous and at the ready with a pen.
“Tell me. You hate it? What’s bad? Does it taste bland or rancid? I tend to enjoy a fermented bread soaked in onion juice.”
Buck coughed, and Kit gasped. Jasper giggled, noshing on a thick slice of the best French toast she’d ever had. And that wasn’t an exaggeration.
Buck sipped his milk and said, “Folks ‘round here don’t go talking about onion juices during breakfast. That’s sick. But I gotta say, this here is some mighty fine toast. Thick, coated just right, and sweet. Mm! I need me a plate to go.”
Kit scribbled in his journal and nodded. “What of the eggs?”
“Oh, uhhhhh.” Buck made a face. “Too salty, and you gotta take it easy on the pepper. We like spicy shit, but the eggs gotta be left alone.”
“Got it. No salt and—:
“Hold on now, I didn’t say that. I said, less, salt. There’s a difference.”
Jasper ran another piece of bread through a pool of maple syrup and said, “I agree. Too salty, but otherwise fantastic. You have outdone yourself, brother.”
“Also,” Buck cleared his throat and dabbed his lips with a napkin, “those ain’t our chickens. Them hens belong to Hank. And he’s not gon’ like you touching their eggs.”
Jasper smiled with a mouthful. Kit’s slate gray cheeks darkened as he frowned. “I didn’t see any in the chiller and I—“
“It’s in the storage bin on the bottom shelf, left-hand side, probably. Nieema loves to keep shit overly organized. Don’t ask me why. She buys a box or container for everything.”
“Sooooo, is that why none of the foodstuffs have packaging? Because I believe it’s a waste of time and actually—“
“I think it’s tidy,” Jasper interjected, defending Nieema’s organizational skills. “Labels would help, though. Last night I had a rough time finding the cheese.”
“That’s what I said,” Buck hollered. “But she don’t like labels. Says they’re ugly.” He shrugged and went in on his victuals.
For fifteen minutes, their trio chowed and finished every bite of Kit’s fare. Even the crepes were perfect. Jasper didn’t think her brother had been at the cooking thing for long, but perhaps she hadn’t paid enough attention.
Several burps and grunts later, Jasper slipped into a pair of sandals and fixed the bow on her head. She’d decided on a crocheted crop top and a fun ruffled skirt. After adorning each horn tip with rainbow caps, she grabbed her phone and skipped out the door.

Buck

Gods and devils, Jasper was the prettiest little thing dressed in purple and red. She had a smile that’d make the sun jealous, prancing toward him like a happy, carefree dame. One moment, Jasper stood tall as an impenetrable fortress; the next, she was soft as spring clouds during April showers.
“I’m ready,” Jasper said, twirling from side to side.
Buck laughed and started their journey back to the house. This woman was a doozy to read. He’d thought they wanted the same thing, and was wrong. Buck assumed he had this demoness figured out when, in fact, he didn’t. Nieema was spot on with Jasper. She was complex.
Environs shifted when they shared the same space but something gave her pause. Jasper’s eyes glittered and sparked talking to Nieema. Buck hadn’t imagined their interactions and attraction. It was there, but Jasper laid the cards flat and was honest. Full stop, she pumped the breaks and they had to accept it.
Nobody said they couldn’t be friends, though. Jasper looked like the kinda fun Buck enjoyed.
“What papers do I have to sign? Hope it’s not my soul.”
Buck cackled as their long legs gobbled up the trail. In no time, he spotted his car. “Isn’t that your thing?”
“Sometimes.”
“Seriously?”
He wiggled keys free from his pocket and stabbed the remote, unlocking doors.
“We only kill other demons. Make soul contracts with other demons. Not every demon can make someone give them jewels or wages. To be honest, most can’t do it.”
“You can.”
Jasper laid a sidelong stare on him and smirked. “Sure, but I don’t. Life’s no fun that way, trust me.”
He sighed and opened the door for her. Jasper was cute as a button and lived honorably. She was far too adorable, and he understood her hesitation. Succubi sniffed out souls like he tracked mint leaves. Buck wasn’t delusional about it, he was not everyone’s cup of sweet sun tea. And you couldn’t hide from a succubus.
Jasper saw straight through his countryside charm and manners.
“Click that belt, darlin’.”
“Cut the pet name shit.”
“Fine by me.”
He knew for a fact she liked it, but wouldn’t press. With Jasper tucked and secure, he revved the engine.
“Ohhhh, my goodness.” She giggled and cupped her mouth. “Do that again!”
He smashed the gas and Jasper exploded in more laughter. The minute he hit the highway she was gasping for air.
“I-I’ve never been in an old car.”
“Had her for seventy years.”
“Seventy?!”
“Mhm. Just swapped the block, tuned her right on up. Got some heated crystal core pistons under the hood now. Some say it kills the transmission, but I haven’t felt no change. Grant it, I ain’t no mechanic, but I know how Ursala rides.”
“I have no idea what the hell you said, but I love your car.”
Buck gripped the woodgrain and added twenty to the dash. Jasper’s smile remained for miles, and he was happy to be the cause. She liked his tunes and complimented his driving. Jasper was a chatterbox, and Buck had always been the listening sort.
“When are we going to start the demolition thing?” Jasper asked.
“Demo—woman, I don’t know what Nieema told you, but we won’t be doing that tonight. We have to survey first. Get an idea of what we can salvage and take a few measurements.”
Jasper deflated and pouted. She muttered and faced the window.
“Yeah, I know. Everybody gets excited about them sledgehammers.”
“I wanted to destroy something. It’d be a good stress reliever.”
“It sure is, but let’s handle the boring stuff first.”
She cocked a brow before rolling her big copper eyes.
Buck hit the exit and rumbled into town. Folks were out and about, mostly human. They got an early start to the day, nocturnal fae were just waking or sleeping in. Buck got about three-four hours, his Drendt side kept energized.
“Okay, here we are.” Buck parked in a near empty lot and locked up. “This shouldn’t take long. ‘Bout twenty. After, we’ll head to the house with Nordizach.”
“This is no fun at all.”
Buck snickered, allowing her entry first. Their construction firm was a two-story glass house. It looked like your everyday city office. Omari took charge some years back and redecorated. Buck thought it was pretentious and stuffy. They even had uniforms and company colors. It was bullshit but not his circus anymore. Yes, Buck and Nieema owned it but neither wanted the job after ten years of running the show.
Blue-collar gigs were not their bag, though they tried for some time. Good thing they had other, more lucrative streams of income.
Omari was quick on his feet with eyes fixed on Jasper. The ever-busy career-oriented male didn’t have time for a lady. According to his ex-wife, Omari was emotionally unavailable. Given how he tripped and stumbled from his office, he was up to no good. Buck quirked a brow as the man-child ran at them with his hand out.
“Hello, hi.” Omari’s smile touched his ears. Buck sighed as he tried to put on a show. “I’m Omari Sunside. What can I do for you?”
Jasper smirked, shaking the boys hand. She exchanged glances with them and hummed.
“Sunside, as in…”
“Hay, Pop.”
She giggled and reached for the glittering gold chains at her throat.
After a quick embrace, Buck got to the introduction.
“This here is Jasper, she just moved into that spot on Great Oaks.”
Omari smacked his teeth and said, “Cold-blooded. Hawke the Realtor?”
“Yeees?” Jasper posed the question, letting Buck know she’d been swindled.
“I bet Jack doesn’t know about this. That house is a death trap and is cursed.”
Jasper flinched. “Cursed? How?”
“No one who moves in stays.”
Buck nodded as she looked to him for confirmation. He didn’t think it was cursed, but rather a shit hole built on shit land. Most of the houses in that neighborhood needed foundational work year-round.
“It ain’t good land, is all. Hard upkeep.”
Omari sniffed and shook his head. “Jasper, if I were you, I’d hire pest control and go to a hotel.”
“Oh, no need. I’m staying at the Sunsides Inn.”
Buck caught her wry grin and popped brows. Omari, the tramp, slouched at the news. He knew damn well when folks found their way onto the ranch they were either going to fuck or had. Unless they were dignitaries or political figures from across The Frothing sea, of course.
Jasper was neither, so she was free to share sheets and sweat with Omari if she wanted. She blushed as if impressed. They yammered about the town, and Jasper asked him about places to eat and where to get fabrics. Nieema was the best to ask for the latter.
Buck cracked his gum, interrupting the fast friends, and said, “We came to see Yardi. Jasper got papers to sign, and I have a house to survey.”
“Alright, Pop.”
Buck embraced his son in a tight, comforting hug and ran a hand over his waves.
“Stop!”
“They need some love, my boy.”
“Leave me be. I’m losing sleep over this mall business.”
“I know it.”
Omari focused on Jasper and said, “It was nice meeting you, Jasper, and welcome to Indigo Plains. Watch it with this one, he’s trouble.”
“So am I.”
Jasper arched a brow and grinned. She was mischievous and sly. Buck knew it by how her eyes stuck to him. She might not want to, but she had thoughts. He was damn certain about that.
With a final wave, they separated, and Buck started the short journey. He banked right with Jasper at his side, still smiling.
“He’s your twin.”
“Ya think so? I always been told he look like his mama.”
“I see her, but he has your eyes and… air.”
“My air, huh?”
Jasper nodded, keeping them eyes ahead. He hummed, cracked gum, and scratched his jaw in confusion.
At their destination, Buck knocked on the glass, spooking Reese Yardi Muckerton. The fine fella was reading the contract he’d drawn up last night for what was sure to be the fifth time. Meticulous and detail-oriented, Yardi was an excellent project manager who memorized every word he typed.
“Hello, there.” Yardi shook Jasper’s hand and ushered them into his office. “It is great to meet you, Jasper. And welcome to Indigo Plains. I hope it’s treating you well.”
“Better than expected.”
“Love to hear it, please have a seat.”
Everybody grabbed a chair, and Buck removed his hat. He placed it on top of the man’s desk. It earned him a glare. To be funny, Buck left it there. Yardi snatched the folder from under the brown brim.
The human fiddled with his wire-frame glasses and said, “I’m sorry about your home. I don’t think anyone would have agreed to buying it if they were made aware of the damage.”
Jasper shrugged. “I went in knowing it was a fixer-upper. I just didn’t know to what degree. I overdid it. I do that sometimes, you know.”
Buck scoffed, and Yardi snorted. “Even so. We know Hawke. He saw easy prey and dove for the kill. He took advantage of you.”
“That’s what I keep hearing.”
Buck ground his molars at the show of Jasper’s nervousness. She went for them chains and gnawed on her lip. He wanted to pat her knee or rub her back, but it’d be wildly inappropriate. The urge was strong, though.
“That’s why we here,” Buck said. “To fix what we can.”
Reese wagged a finger and nodded. “Exactly, and Buck here knows how these things go. Jasper, you will here a bunch of construction talk, but don’t you fret, it’s to keep you safe. It’s to keep our workers safe and to ensure everyone can do their part. We will be going with a time and materials contract on this one.”
Buck propped a booted foot up onto his thigh and grumbled, “I know it. The place is a hellhole. Alls good. Tell me where to sign and I’ll start writing checks.”
“Wait.” Jasper butt-in. Her molten eyes sparkled and bulged some. She was shocked as hell. “What checks? You said it was free.”
“For you, yeah. But materials and labor ain’t free. I gotta pay these people. We’ll be doing most of the structural work, but I’m not an electrician or a plumber. I can pound nails, sand pine, and install drywall all day, but that’s far as I go.”
Jasper was set to refuse, but Buck saw it in her hardening expression.
“The Sunsides do this,” Yardi added. “You’re not the first. They take on a lot of projects and pay for them out of pocket. You’re one of hundreds they’ve saved, financially speaking.”
Reese gulped his coffee and sighed. He made great progress with Jasper. Her shoulders drooped, and so did her resolve. She still flicked at her jewels, but Buck knew they’d won.
“Trust me, Jasper, you want their help. The house, just from what I’ve seen in passing, tells me you’re looking at ten-twenty grand minimum. And I can only guess what the inside looks like.”
Jasper dropped her hand and said, “Fine. I don’t have two thousand, let alone twenty in my account. I’m not going to refuse. But I will figure out a way to pay you back.”
Buck chuckled and popped his gum. “Sure you will.”
“I will and don’t you dare doubt me.”
“Oh I don’t, but I didn’t ask for no reimbursement. And good luck getting that by my wife, she’ll blow a gasket.”
“I don’t care. It’s a lot of mone—“
“Moving along.” Buck stopped her there and inched forward, reaching for a pen. He’d started the business and knew most contract blabber well enough. “We gotta meet Zach at the house. Give her a quick rundown, Yardi. I’ll start signing.”