Merry Christmas.


Well at last I've finally brought out the ebook for Forever And A Day.  The book is basically the same, just a few changes.  I took away the prologue ,  made some corrections and changed the ending a tiny bit. Oh, yeah, and I changed the cover. This girl has the most beautiful eyes.

Stay safe this holiday season


Dyanne and family

I've set several short term goals for myself and I'm happy to say I'm following through. Today as they say, the book of my heart is now available. The Gift, the paranormal psychic war.  I've always been drawn to any and everything dealing with the paranormal.  Psychics hold a mystery I've been trying to understand for years.

I've personally had experience that years ago I refused to accept or believe because of religious upbringing.  Then one day out of the blue something so amazing happened (WHILE I WAS AWAKE) that I had no choice but to believe there's more to this life than I'd initially acknowledged. As I accepted that truth more things began to be revealed to me. Paranormal gifts are just that, gifts.


The psychic war in my tale is fictional though I do believe that there are psychic vampires, people who feed off of others energy either knowing or unknowingly. Either way, that happens.

But for today I'm going to enjoy the feeling of accomplishment, victory. My trilogy was a hard sell as there

Shaun and Dave, part of

Taylor moved up and down on his erection and a low moan slipped out of Michael. His eyes clenched tightly. Resisting the urge to thrust upward, to just grab her buttocks and go at it hot and heavy he concentrated on not having an early climax. “Your skin is so soft, Taylor. You taste delicious and you smell…Um…yummy. I love your scent. One day you’ll have to tell me what that tantalizing fragrance is.” He trailed his hand along the ridge of her shoulder following with his lips, his tongue nipping her lightly, licking her skin in circular motions, sucking her tongue into his mouth, pulling her closer, holding her tighter but never ever taking control. “Ride me baby,” he offered, “ride me hard…or gently if you want." He’d helped her to delay her climax with talk and look at the thanks he’d gotten for it. Taylor was toying with him now. She was deliberately killing him. With one hand Michael braced himself while with the other he attempted to lift Taylor from him. "Stop it, she scolded. It's my turn to have control." “Show mercy,” he whispered. “Taylor, you’re so not playing fair.” “And you think the way you’re touching me is playing fair?” “But I was attempting to be helpful darling.” “How, by burning me up?” He heard the delight in her and once again leaned into the hollow of her neck breathing in her essence, laving her repeatedly. His hands twisted in her hair and he held on as she slid down the length of him. “This is my game,” Taylor reminded him. “I get to do what I want to you.” With that she lowered herself all the way down over his erection, grinding her pelvis, not allowing him to break their connection. She wrapped her legs around his back and held on tilting her head downwards. Her pelvis tilted also giving just the angle she was looking for. Michael was touching her just where he knew she wanted it most and… yes, oh yes, she was coming. "Michael, please." Instead of answering her Michael quickly reversed positions. His flesh throbbed and jerked, delighted to be buried inside her creamy wetness. With a groan of satisfaction Michael pushed into Taylor while bringing her hips forward to meet his thrust. He couldn’t go deep enough into her body. She was circling him with her tightness making him want to come with each stroke. But that would be selfish. He was thrusting into her without mercy, faster and faster and… “Yes, yes, that it’s baby. Oh, that’s it,” he groaned as she ground her pelvis into his. It was time for him to give them both the relief they sought. Taylor was moaning. "I’m going to come. I’m…” The insistent shrilling of the phone pulled Michael from his dream. Damn. Barely opening his eyes he glanced over at the clock and noted the time. 3 A.M. Who the heck could be calling him at this ghastly hour? He wasn't on call and could not think of a single patient who needed him. He thought to ignore the still ringing phone, but the idea that it might be urgent worked its way into his mind. What if Taylor needed him? With that thought, he snatched the phone from its cradle not masking the gruffness of his voice. If it wasn’t Taylor, wasn’t an absolute emergency, he wanted the caller to be aware they’d awakened him. “Michael,” Beth’s voice purred through the lines. “Where the hell are you?” Michael asked, and then followed with: “Are you okay?” “I’m fine. I thought maybe instead of continually telling you and Taylor to check the time before you pick up a phone to call me; I’d show you what I meant.” If he weren’t feeling so annoyed, Beth’s voice would have brought him amusement. After all, she was one of his closest friends. And she had a point. As a model Beth traveled the world and complained often and loudly that he and Taylor were not respectful of even trying to account for time difference when calling her. With a resigned sigh, he finally chuckled. “Sorry, Beth. You’re right. The feeling is different being on the other end. What if I told you, I’d only gone to bed an hour ago and have to be at the hospital in less than three hours?” “I’d say tough. You shouldn't have spent the night out partying.” “Is this call important?” “It is to me. We’ll have to see what you think. It’s about Taylor.” Taylor. Now Michael was wide awake. “Beth, stop fucking around. Is something wrong with Taylor? What’s going on?” “She’s not physically ill or anything. But she’s sounding really down. It’s been like that for a couple of months.” “Shit, you called me for that?” “This is different. You know how Taylor is. Usually, she comes out of a funk in a matter of days. This one has lasted for months.” Beth sighed in frustration. “Michael, this is on the up and up. I’m worried about her. I’m heading home as soon as my Milan shoot is over.” As much as he didn’t want to admit it, Beth was right about Taylor. She didn’t stay depressed for an extended period of time. She was so damn controlling that she wouldn’t allow herself the right or weakness to be depressed. That was one of the many subjects they’d fought about a dozen times. He believed a person had a right to become emotional, while Taylor on the other hand thought it a weakness. It was one of the reasons he’d relocated to California after their last breakup. Considering their being apart appeared to have little effect on her, how was he going to tell her it was killing him without appearing weak? “Michael, are you listening to me? I’m turning down a job to return home and check on her. That alone should tell you how serious I think this is.” If it was making Beth return to the states it had to be big. If she was giving up a modeling job it had to be catastrophic. “Does she know you’re coming?” “Yes. I told her I’d come home if she needed me. Instead of saying I was crazy, that she was fine, the way she normally would, Taylor said she’d love to see me.” “Damn.” Michael whistled between his teeth. “What the hell’s wrong?” “Something about not getting on a research team and receiving nothing but rejections. It’s hitting her hard. Hey, why don’t you know about this?” Beth accused. “You know the reason. She asked me to leave her the hell alone, to stay out of her life. I’ve tried to obey her wishes.” “You don’t even call to check on her?” The guilt Beth was undoubtedly trying to make him feel was working. The remorse traveled clear through his body. “Not as much as I’d like. Not as often as I call you. But I do call her. I call her on special occasions and every once in awhile I'll call her just to check in, to make sure she's okay, so she'll know that I'm still breathing.” He attempted a laugh but Beth was giving her annoyed snort stopping him before the sound could come out. "Okay, so I don't call her every week or even every month. We're not together remember." “Damn! That’s cold.” “What? She does the same,” Michael defended. “Anything other than that and there has to be a damn good reason or she’d accuse me of stalking her, trying to control her simply by wanting to know everything’s well with her. I can’t win with Taylor,” Michael said softly. “It’s either all or nothing with us.” “I can’t believe for three years you haven’t wanted to personally know how she was doing.” Knowing the reason, Michael plunged ahead. “I have you for that. You always tell me what’s going on with her. I’ve no doubt you fill her in about my life.” “Still, I never would have believed the two of you would carry things this far. You’ve been in love with her since you were fifteen.” “Seventeen.” “Whatever.” Michael laughed softly. “I merely had a crush on her at fifteen.” “And you’ve been her friend since you were three.” Annoyance was rapidly creeping back in. Didn’t Taylor have as much responsibility as he to keep their relationship alive? Why should he be the only one to try? She wanted things he wasn’t at liberty to give her. She wanted the truth about why he’d broken her heart over a decade ago. How the hell did he tell her he’d sold their future to her parents for money to help his family with their farm? Better yet, how did he tell her he’d blackmailed them to finance his education? Sure, he’d initially done it out of anger at her parents. They thought Taylor deserved something better than a life of hard work on a farm married to him. He’d thought the same. She was brilliant, always had been. She’d always talked of becoming a doctor from the time they were kids. There was no way Michael had had the money for dreams like those. He’d tried to convince himself after a bit of time passed that what he’d done was for the two of them, that he was making sure he’d have a better future to offer Taylor. What he’d thought of as investing in their future had backfired. With a weary sigh he admitted to himself that the prime motivator had been anger. He’d wanted vengeance and had ended up hurting Taylor and hurting any chance they had of a future. Even so, they’d tried many times. But the lie was always there in the background. “Michael,” Beth said softly, interrupting his thoughts. “If it were you, Taylor wouldn’t hesitate if she knew you needed her. Your agreement wouldn’t stand in the way of that.” And that was the rub. Though it had been Taylor who’d broken things off and told him to stay out of her life Michael knew without a doubt if he called and told her he needed her, she would drop whatever she was doing and come to him. Another longer sigh escaped. But Taylor hadn’t called him. Beth had. “Michael.” “She doesn’t want me in her life, Beth. Don’t you understand? Taylor ordered me to stay out of her life.” “Do you want her out of yours as well?” Saying yes was the one lie Michael was unprepared to tell either to Beth or himself. Hell no, he didn’t want Taylor out of his life. He never had. Every single day his thoughts returned to her. It was by sheer force of will he didn’t call more often. Sometimes he’d go so far as to punch in her number on his phone. Then he’d hang up before a connection could be made. “I’ll call her, Beth. That’s all I can promise.” “It’s a little bit more than nothing. But if that’s all you can do, and if she means so little to you, then what the hell. Call her if you get a spare moment, Michael. I’m sure she’ll appreciate your making time for her. I wouldn’t have called so late if I didn't believe she needed you. Just think about this conversation the next time you want to call me in the middle of the night.” The slam of the phone reverberated in his ear. Putting the phone away Michael turned on the bedside lamp and sat on the side of the bed with his head in his hand. He wondered at the timing. For months now he'd dreamed repeatedly of making love to Taylor. He'd attempted to wash her from his mind with other women, but it hadn't worked. She was under his skin. Now he knew why. It had been a hell of a lot easier to be who he was without being near her. Before he’d even walked to the bathroom he knew it was time to go home. Taylor needed him. Taking a long hard look at his image in the mirror he viewed his appearance through Taylor’s eyes. She no longer liked his country boy blonde hair and blue eyes. She preferred his hair black and his eyes green. With a snort he thought of the green contacts he’d not worn in three years. He’d have to get a new script. The things he’d done to Taylor were awful, but the things he’d allowed her to do to him were almost as bad. Of course he could have said no when she’d come up with the idea for him to change his looks and join her in modeling. He didn’t need a shrink to know he’d gone along with it out of guilt. Hurting Taylor by telling her he didn’t love her, and never had, had been the death of a part of his soul for the telling. And hers, for the hearing. When she’d decided they could remain friends it came after the change in his hair and eyes. Only then did it seem she could look at him without the constant pain that haunted her. To take that away for even a moment had been a fair trade. Or so he’d thought at the time. Running his hands through his hair he knew he’d once again find a stylist who would turn his blonde locks inky black. More urgent things were at hand. The thought that in order to return home to Taylor would put him in direct line of communication with his family, namely his father, made Michael swallow the regret. If he wasn’t home and didn’t go regularly to see what shape the farm was in, to see what other piece of equipment had broken down, he could take care of the basic needs of his parents: Loan to Taylor's parents, utilities, food, insurance and incidentals. And he could continue to help out his four siblings. But the farm was another matter. For the last three years he’d stubbornly refused to buy any more farm equipment. He’d poured tens of thousand of dollars into a never ending sink hole. Now, he’d have no choice but to go and see his parents, and see the farm. And he’d have no choice after seeing the farm but to allow the look in his father’s eyes to persuade him to buy whatever new gadget his father thought would make a go of the farm. Nothing would. His father wasn’t a farmer, never had been. He’d wasted years of his life and most of the money Michael earned, and still wouldn’t accept that fact. With a disgusted grunt he decided to turn the light inward. The life he’d lived for the last three years was no better than what his father had done. He’d believed he could find a life without Taylor and be happy. Every failed relationship proved him wrong. No matter how hard he tried, his damanable heart wanted her and only her. The pretense worked to a degree when they weren’t in the same state. He had little doubt he’d eventually crumble in her presence. The way he saw it, he was left with little choice. As Beth had said, Taylor needed him. He had no option left but to go to her. Reason said it could be a visit, nothing permanent. But his heart said No. he missed being in the same state as Taylor, even when they were fighting it was better knowing she would be no more than a short drive away, that they could eat together, make love, fight and make up again. Running from her hadn't helped him and it probably hadn't helped her. It was time to go home. He'd always known the move to California wasn't eternal. He'd hoped against hope that a call would come, that Taylor's soft voice would reach out to him pleading with him to return home. That hadn't happened and if he stayed away another twenty years it probably never would. The woman he loved was much too in control of her emotions to ever let him know she needed him. The excuse Beth had given him was as good as any. Besides, he was ready to return. First he needed a plan. There had to be a way he could give Taylor what she wanted. He’d made numerous research contacts since moving into the field. If she wanted so badly to be on a research team that it had her depressed for months, he’d make damn sure he used all of his resources to make it happen. Making a mental list of the things he had to do in order to return home and help her, the most obvious was to secure a position at home and give notice to his research team and the hospital. With a sigh he wondered if he were a bit insane. He was giving up a lot. But for Taylor he'd give up everything. Returning to his room, he reached for the phone, smiling a little, wondering if she was in bed alone. “Hey, Ta,” he spoke softly when she answered. “How’s it going?”

The last couple of weeks have been really stressful for our family. The first picture is of my nephew, Michael Jackson Jr. (Mikey) and one of my nieces, Latanya Owens. Two Thursdays ago Tanya was in the hospital having a c-section with little T (Theresa) and lost a lot of blood and had to have transfusions. At the same time her brother was being rushed to ICU with a brain aneurysm and bleeding into his brain. The moment Tanya was realized from her hospital she rushed over to her brother with her husband ane new baby.

Skip ahead to this past Monday. Mikey had a procedure to repair the aneurysm. Yesterday was my son, Bill Jr.'s birthday and Mickey and his other sister,  my oldest niece Ongela Dionne (Peaches) joined us for a birthday lunch. Mikey was able to talk all of us into being part of a family vacation, Bill Sr. included.


The point of my blog today, life is precious, enjoy it and those you love while you can. Second thing, our family has a new member whose first name I keep forgetting. LOL. Happy Saturday.  I'm hosting an old friend on my cable show who'd left writing for about ten years I think. Now she's back with a bang.


Dyanne

http://www.amazon.com/THE-CRITIC-ebook/dp/B00CBG5PPQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1365767262&sr=1-1&keywords=dyanne+davis+the+critic

Check out the new cover for The Critic. Same sweet, funny story, with a new look.  Let me know what you think of the new cover.

Dyanne

Affaire de Coeur Short Story Contest
        Enter Today!
               $500 – First  Place
          For details, go here 
     http://adcmagazine.com/shortstorycontest.html
      


By the way, published authors are eligible to enter this contest.  You must enter with an unpublished story and it can't be under contract. Good luck

 This is the first chapter of my new book, An Imperfect Life.  This book I'm bringing out in three separate ways.  It will be available  at Amazon in chapters. And no, it one be one chapter at a time that would take much too long.  It will be about 4 chapters, at least 50 pages. The first segment is 4 chapters and will be available at Amazon in a couple of days.  Until then, I've decided to give you the first chapter to whet your appetite.

                                                    An Imperfect Life

The smell of lemon oil brought a grin to Dominic’s face.  Glancing around the courtroom he took pride in the tidiness of the place, including the gleaming, fresh polished desk he was sitting behind. All of it was part of his dream come true. He gave a light pat to the shoulder of the man sitting next to him. His client Antonio Remeris glanced at him, his gaze showing the fear of possibly not winning the lawsuit. Dominic gave the man another pat and a nod of confidence. When he saw his client was catching the win fever Dominic shifted his attention to his woman and co-counsel on this case. Sadie Hawkins

Desire instantly curled through him and he swallowed in an attempt to tamp it down. It was damn near impossible. From the moment he’d met Sadie she’d set his libido on overdrive and it had never changed. She had legs that stretched to heaven and back, long, silky, soft hair that he loved running his fingers threw. He especially loved when she’d used the curling iron to curl it and he’d coax her into a hot shower to make love, turning her massive ringlets straight once again. She’d fuss and complain about him making her have to get a perm twice as often as she should. But she’d yet to refuse to make love to him. Her skin was the exact color of warm honey and tasted even sweeter. And her big brown eyes sparkled with little flecks of gold when she was horny, and red flecks when she was angry. And the way she curled just right into his arms was nothing short of magical. She’d been put on this earth with the specific purpose to love him. He was eternally grateful to the creator. Glancing in her direction he moaned and the arousal came.

Catching Sadie’s eye as she sat on the other side of their client, Dominic’s grin widened.  Sadie was impatiently tapping a pencil on the polished desk, her trait when she was edgy. He knew it couldn’t possibly be worry over losing the case. Mr. Remeris had a strong discrimination case. So did the ten others they represented in this one lawsuit. The payoff would be a big haul for each of the clients and an even greater haul for the law firm. Both he and Sadie would be assured of bonuses. For Dominic it would put him one step closer to landing the junior partnership that would be handed out in a few months.

            While Sadie’s pencil tapping became more pronounced his grin grew wider. The side door opened and the jury filed in. He didn’t have to read their faces to know they’d won, but Sadie sure enough turned toward the jury.  A deep but soft chuckle was his way of letting her know he was aware of her actions. He knew she was scanning their faces. That was his woman, she liked to be sure of the outcome. Though confident, still Dominic listened as the jury Forman read the verdicts, each  in their client’s favor, each a multimillion dollar win against Novellan for blatant discrimination.

“Yes.” He heard the strong but softly spoken word from Sadie. That was her trademark each and every time they won. He wondered what she’d say if they ever lost. Why worry about that now, they’d never lost, not once since they’d been paired together, and he had all intentions of making sure they remained paired.

It was all planned out, every second of their lives. He’d make partner in December and on Christmas Day he would give Sadie the ring he’d bought for her months before and miracles of miracles he’d managed to keep hidden from her. He’d ask her to marry him. They’d marry in June and by the following Christmas they’d be working on their first baby. After the third baby He’d persuade Sadie to quit working. Then they’d buy a house in the suburbs and live happily ever after.  Their lives were perfect now and their future would follow suit.

            Snapping her fingers in his face Sadie pulled on Dominic’s arm to get his attention. “Why do you have that silly grin on your face? You didn’t hear a word I said.”

            He gave her a full grin feeling confident and a bit cocky. They were winners and this win was but another diamond in the collection. “I was thinking of our future.”

            “If you want that future you’d better take care of our present.  We won.”

            “Of course we won. You talk as though you had doubt.” Grinning broadly Dominic translated the verdict for his client then turned to the gallery where the remainder of the clients were seated and gave them two thumbs up and laughed.

            There was justice in the world after all and he was proud to be on the winning team that had secured it for so many of the firm’s clients. Shaking hands with his clients, accepting the hugs and thanks he tried unsuccessfully to keep his eyes from wandering over Sadie’s behind or glancing at her beautiful silk encased long legs. Her whispered 'stop it' had the opposite effect she wished on his libido. Yep, a hard on, right there in the courtroom. Sadie had that effect on him, add the huge win and there was no way that wasn’t going to happen. A raised brow from Sadie and he slid his briefcase into position

            “Is that better?” he asked her as they began walking out of the courtroom surrounded by their clients. “You know you’re feeling the same way. You’re just lucky enough that you don’t have outside proof. Why don’t we make a quick run to our apartment and have a special celebration before we head back to the office?”

            At that moment Sadie pulled a little away from him and took out her cell. She liked to play it professionally. But even she wasn’t immune to what this win meant for them. She wasn’t fooling him in the least, a stickler for details she was calling the boss to let him know of the win and that they were going to celebrate before returning to the office. He snickered wondering if she’d said they were going out for drinks or taking the clients to lunch. When she came back and faced the clients instead of him he knew the answer.  Not only had Sadie told the boss they were celebrating by taking the clients out for lunch, she was actually following through with it. With a growl and a smile he moved closer to Sadie in order to translate. Turning toward her he asked, “Do we get to celebrate privately?”

            “Of course. I explained to the boss that the two of us would be celebrating the rest of the day.” She smiled. “This was a big win for all concerned. No one cares that we’re not coming back to the office. We got the job done. Besides, Dom, you gave me what I’ve never been able to resist.  An offer to ah …” Sadie raised a brow and laughed teasing Dom, giving him the quick look that always turned him and her own. Why not give in and go home and make love?

            Keeping his hands to himself was a challenge but one he was sure he could handle.  Considering that Sadie had positioned herself between two of the clients he was left with little choice.  Every few second he’d catch her gaze, teasing and sensual and he fought his erection. A couple of hours celebrating with the clients would be worth it if it meant Dominic got to celebrate with Sadie alone for the rest of the day. Grinning he glanced at her and found her brown gaze set firmly on him. Everything he needed was in that look. The world was theirs and would only get better.

           

     

                                                    ***

Sudsy water sluiced over them carrying the vanilla spice scent to the shower drain. What an absolutely perfect beginning to what would be a picture-perfect weekend. If their lovemaking last night was anything to go by they would be using the fragrant body wash several more times.

Lips, demanding, rough and soft all at the same time claimed her own. Dom pulled her even closer while using his free arm to provide a cushion for her back to lean into. His erection strummed with life making her stop at the wonder of it all, of them. They had always been good together a big win somehow always gave them an invisible extra boost. Accepting the knowledge without question Sadie smiled as her body was lifted and she was filled with Dom. 

“Um,” she breathed drowning in his kisses and his flesh. This man was her life, only one thing was missing, a wedding band that she’d have soon enough. Just a few short months and Dom would propose. He would be her biggest Christmas gift. No matter how perfect a relationship was, legalizing it for the world to see their commitment was always uppermost in a woman’s mind. In their case it had been Dom who’d first uttered the ‘M’ word.

Rational thought left her as magic invaded her body. God had created love and making love just so it would be perfected by them. With a guttural groan from Dominic, her cue to hold on tight Sadie allowed herself to let go. It felt as though she was flying without a net beneath her to catch her in case she fell. But that didn’t worry her. Dom was her safety net and would never allow pain to come to her. That was the last thought she had before bliss wiped out everything else. Pressed against his body they both trembled with the force of their release deciding to remain locked together.

Ever so slowly she uncurled her legs from around his back and smiled as Dom held her around the waist sliding her slowly down his torso creating delicious after waves of pleasure.

“Sadie, my love, you’re my oxygen.”

With a smile she glanced at him struck as always by the love in his gaze. “And you’re mine,” she finally answered. “Dom, sometimes I feel as though I should pinch myself. I’m so happy.  I hope it’s always like this for us.”

“Considering that I would not be able to stop loving you even under threat of execution, I don’t see things changing.” He laughed. “Sadie, I can hardly wait until December. I have never been more excited about Christmas in my life.”

“Why?”

“You think you know me so well, and maybe you do. But you’re not going to spoil Christmas for me no matter what you might think I’m getting you.”

“Would you like to know what I’m getting you?”

Curiosity pulled at him but he wouldn’t give in. Sadie only wanted him to admit to the fact that he was using the holiday to finally make things official. As much as he knew it wasn’t a surprise to anyone that he was asking Sadie to marry him, he still wanted to hold it to himself a little longer. After all he’d shopped for her engagement ring with her father. The man hadn’t told Sadie in actual words but the beaming smile on his face every time they were in his presence was a dead giveaway. Dom had threatened him that if he didn’t stop hugging him when they went over they would cease coming to visit until after he’d asked Sadie. He laughed softly to himself remembering Sadie’s looks after his father’s continued display of affection. She’d joked that her father was in love with him. True to his word her father had not told Sadie no matter how much she’d prodded him for the information. But being a woman, his woman, he already knew she knew. And unless he’d missed his guess she’d found the box.  But the wrapping was undisturbed and even if it wasn’t Sadie loved when he surprised her and would wait for him to present the ring at his own good time.

Sadie was holding out the bath gel. I don't intend to spend the entire day in the shower. At least let's have breakfast."

"And then?"

"And then we can continue the celebration."

Showering hurriedly Dominic turned Sadie so he could wash her back and other places, laughing when she swatted his hands away.

                                                    ***

                                               

If the smile adorning Dom’s face had been any brighter Sadie would have needed shades to cover her eyes. She smiled standing a little to the side as her man took his victory stroll through the office.  She glanced at Paul noting that his head was tilted a tiny bit in her direction and he was observing her. When their gazes met they both smiled and he moved closer to her.

“Sadie, Santiago didn’t win those cases alone. Why aren’t you strutting?”

“That’s not my style.”

“You’re giving him the spotlight.”

“He looks good in it.”

“You’d look better.”

“Paul, you are definitely good for my ego and one day Dom is going to beat you to a bloody pulp because of that.” Paul’s easy smile turned into a laugh and Sadie found herself laughing right along with him. Naturally it had to be in that moment that Dominic turned toward her. He blinked as though he couldn’t believe what he was looking at and it only made the two of them laugh harder. Bad move.  “What did I tell you?” she grinned up at Paul. “If I were you I’d run for cover,” she whispered behind her hand as Dominic strolled up to the two of them.

“Okay what’s so funny that has the two of you laughing so hard?” Dom inquired irritably.

“We’re laughing at you,” Paul said without hesitation.

“That’s a lie,” Sadie objected. “I told Paul that one day you’re going to beat the crap out of him.” Dom stared at her for a moment longer than necessary she thought then he glared at Paul.

“Dom, we’re kidding around.”

“Santiago, I was asking Sadie why you get to do all of the boasting. There were two lawyers on the cases. You always strut and she always move to the side.”

Embarrassment colored Dominic’s cheeks surprising Sadie. Her man was cocky and he had reason to be. He was as he’d put it— a winner. It was time to put an end to the teasing. “Baby, don’t listen to Paul.  I love to see you do your victory stroll.” When he didn’t answer but gave her a questioning look instead, she could have kicked Paul and herself.

“Seriously, Dom. Paul just likes to annoy you. He’s teasing and wishing he was in your shoes right now.”

“Now that statement is true, Sadie. I do wish I were in Dom’s shoes, perhaps in his…” Paul drawled leaving the rest to the imagination. Though his playful leer at her gave no such out. Sadie took Dominic’s arms and turned from Paul before she laughed again.

“Dom, you have got to stop taking the bait every time Paul needles you. He does it just because you can’t take it.”

“I hate him flirting with you.”

“It’s harmless.”

“You like it.”

“Of course I like it. I’m a woman. But for God sake, Dom, when you get angry that’s another win for Paul. He loves it.  I’ll bet he spends hours thinking of new ways to make you explode.”

Dominic turned back to glare at Paul. “So, what’s your excuse for laughing with him?”

“He’s funny.  I like him and he’s my friend. He’s also your friend and even if he wasn’t you can’t tell me who to have as my friend. And you can’t tell me when to laugh. So stop trying.” Sadie stopped walking to look at Dominic. The hint of sadness she saw in the depths of his eyes prompted her to soothe his ruffled feathers.

“But you’re my man, Dom. Listen, if you want that partnership you’re going to have to put a lid on that temper of yours. You have to stop biting Paul’s head off every chance you get.”

“He makes me crazy.”

“Don’t let him.”

“Maybe I wouldn’t if I didn’t know how much you like him.”

Sadie smiled.

“You like making me crazy too don’t you?”

“There is no way I’m going to win this. Telling you, showing you how much I love you seems to have no effect on you. You’re more concerned with this pissing contest you have between you.”

Walking into the conference room Sadie thought for a moment not to sit in her usual spot next to Dominic. Paul was baiting her, laughing still. He was forever teasing that her man had her on a short lease. Sometimes it did look like it. But that wasn’t it at all. There was something about her and Dom being in close proximity to each other that gave each of them more power and confidence. She felt as invincible as her man when they were seated alongside each other, as if nothing and no one could ever come between them. With a smile and a slight negative shake of her head toward Paul Sadie slid into the seat next to Dominic. She held her breath on noticing Dominic had been watching her.

"You could at least stop encouraging him." Dominic growled then sighed and pulled out the chair next to his for Sadie

Turning on every ounce of charm she possessed Sadie smiled at Dominic. "When we get home I have something very special for you." She saw the flare of interest as he leaned toward her to whisper into her ear.

"The same special thing you did before we left home?"

"With a bit of extra." Running her tongue over her lips in a suggestive manner she touched his leg lightly making it appear to any observer that it was strictly an accident. Only she and Dom were aware of what she was doing. "There are conditions though. You have to behave for the rest of the day, like an adult, like a successful lawyer who’s about to become the next junior partner. Like the man I’m in love with, who is cocky and confident and knows he’s the only man I want in my bed."

"And Paul?"

"A friend baby, just a friend."

All eyes turned toward Mr. Secret and the folders in his hands. He was forever trying to keep the lawyers off balance. Some days he’d have folders and hand out random assignments, other times he’d put the cases in a basket tell them was what they were and allow them the opportunity to choose whatever interested them. Today was not going to go that way. He would be passing them out. Sucking up her feelings on all of the discrimination cases being given without questions to her and Dominic, Sadie waited. Her parents and Dom had said she shouldn’t complain. After all they always received hefty bonuses with their wins.

Still something niggled at Sadie. Dom wanted that damn partnership probably as much as he wanted her. She wished she could think he wanted her a bit more but that would be naive. Sure he loved her, but he was trying constantly to impress her father and in some ways her. The only impressing she needed from him was knowing how much he loved her.

The thought that they were practically excluded from most other cases didn’t bode well for Dom to make partner. She’d tried to tell him that over and over. She’d even brought it up several times to Mr. Secret, both in private and in meetings. All the lawyers at the firm were crossed trained in all manner of law. No one really specialized in any one type though they might do certain cases more than others. It was beginning to appear more and more that while the other lawyers at the firm were encouraged to take on cases outside their comfort zone, even  expected to do so, discrimination cases had been relegated to them. Sure they were good at winning them, but they could and should do more. That was all she was asking for her and Dom.

So now she sat with her fingers crossed beneath the table praying there were no new discrimination cases. When Mr. Secret turned in her and Dominic's direction and smiled Sadie's abdomen tightened.

"It looks like the two of you are in luck. You don’t have any cases."

"Excuse me," Sadie said, "we need billable hours. Pair us with another lawyer."

"There’s only one case that could possibly use a second lawyer." The boss turned slightly. "Paul might be able to use some assistant but you know the rules, the lawyer with the case choose who he wants to work with. The case definitely isn’t big enough to justify three lawyers. So you and Dom wouldn’t be working together."

"We’ve worked separately before." 

With a determined look she glanced at Paul.  He was watching her curiously. Dom touched her leg under the table pressing his fingers against her leg followed by a quick caress, a signal she'd said enough, and she had. Her face was burning making her feel embarrassed as though she’d done something wrong, cried foul when there was no problem.

For a long moment Sadie stared at her boss. She was making him and everyone else in the room uncomfortable and she should stop. But she didn’t. Then Paul gave her the tiniest of smiles and she knew with his next words he’d make things better and worse for her.

"Sadie, I’d love to have you help me with the case. We work so well together."

Paul glanced briefly at Dominic and Sadie swallowed. "Thanks, Paul." Defiantly Sadie turned her attention to her boss. "Problem solved?"

"Well, everything’s settled. Dominic, enjoy your free time. Believe me, you’ve earned it."

The meeting continued but the tension that she’d invoked was still felt. Sadie kept her eyes on her legal pad not looking across the table at Paul and definitely not looking at Dominic. He was no longer touching her, instead he was writing on his legal pad as well. Only he was writing in Spanish. She glanced over briefly, yep he was writing curse words.

                                                

                                            

   

Author's Spotlight:  Wendy Byrne
		I know it's been a 'VERY' long time since I featured an author but you know how it is.  Life happens and things fall by the wayside. Needless to say I'm back with a bang and a fantastic author.  This isn't bull I'm giving you.  I've read her work and I do believe you're going to love her. Now without further ado I would love to introduce you to Wendy Byrne.  Wendy had her first two books,    Fractured (published Dec. 2011) and Mama Said (published  April 2012) from Genesis Press. This past Christmas Wendy self published  her first novella, The Christmas Curse. Dyanne: Welcome, Wendy.  Thank you for the interview. I'd like to begin by giving the readers a bit of information about you. Would you tell us a bit about where you're from and a bit about your background, please? Wendy: Hello, Dyanne. First I'd like to also wish a Happy New Year to the readers and to thank you for having me.  Now, about me. I grew up just outside Chicago in the south suburbs. I am the third of four girls in a very traditional family. My father was a teamster (truck driver); my mother was a stay at home mom. My two oldest sisters are eighteen months apart and then I was born nine years later; my younger sister five years after me. I worked as a secretary for a law office until I got pregnant with my first child. At that point, I started to take classes to get my college degree. Twelve years later I graduated with a masters degree in social work. I worked in the child welfare field for twelve years (suddenly realizing I do things in twelve year increments) progressing from case manager to supervisor. The work was hard and exhaustive but the emotional component required sapped most of my creative energy.  When I decided to leave the field and go into education, I knew I could put more emphasis on my writing. That’s when I began in earnest with the goal of publication. I joined Windy City Writers and learned so much I can’t even begin to explain. I found many friends and like-minded people and was relieved that others had these characters running about their heads trying to get their stories told. Dyanne: When did you first realize that you wanted to be a writer? And what was it that inspired you to start writing?  Wendy: For the longest time I thought everyone had these people and their stories running throughout their head. At first I didn’t do anything with them, just let their story unfold in my head. Then I progressed to writing in down long hand, then later to a computer. I didn’t realize at the time I was writing a story about people I could change and make them perfect, and, above all, have a happy ending. I would watch a movie and think, no that should have been different. That’s not how people would react so I re-wrote it in my head as to how I would have done things differently. Being around writers who’ve ‘made it’ helps aspiring writers realize that anything is possible and also their journey is never over. Every writer I know even those on the NY Times list still is striving to be better in their craft. Knowledge truly is power. The knowledge can come through books, or workshops, or just writing, writing and more writing. Dyanne: LOL.  I should ask you if your characters reacted any better than the people you knew in real life but I won't.  I think I already know the answer.  Here's a safer question.  When did you write your first book? Wendy: That depends on if you mean on paper or in my head. When I was young I can remember thinking about stories and talking to myself—a lot. Thankfully, my parents didn’t think I was crazy. Either that, or they were too busy since I was number 3 of four girls. I’m sure there was a whole lot of drama going on in my house at one time or another. I started out writing down stuff in long hand in my twenties or so, then progressed to computer eventually. It didn’t occur to me that this was something I could actually try to do until later. I bought some writing books and started to research. I wrote my first book—which was absolutely horrible by the way—and sent it off to an agent. He wisely rejected it. I was devastated. Then I learned about Windy City RWA and that’s when the magic truly happened. Dyanne: I am in total agreement with you about first books or at least about my first book. But no matter how bad the book is it shows a couple of things: Commitment, perseverance and a willingness to  learn how to do it.  Its definitely not as easy as many people think. And Windy City RWA. What can I say but, Thank God they were there. Wendy, how many books have you written? Do you have a favorite? Wendy: Probably 10-12. My favorite book will always be Mama Said… I love the character, Gabriella. She’s the woman I want to be when I grow up:  tall, gorgeous, with an incredible singing voice. Since that will never happen, I live vicariously through her and her relationship with her man, Shane. It’s the first book where I could feel Gabriella talking through me. I know that sounds a little crazy, but if a writer can get into their character’s head, that’s kind of how it feels.  Dyanne: I absolutely love, Mama Said. When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? Wendy: Before I tell you I have to explain that my father—as much as I loved him—was very old-fashioned about his girls. He believed that girls needed to be taken care of by a man. As a result, I never really thought about career goals. We (my sisters and I) were never encouraged to attend college or think about future careers. As a result I assumed I would work in an office like my older sisters had done. It wasn’t until after I got married that I came to the realization that I wanted more out of a career and went to college. Dyanne: Knowing about your time in social work and teaching I know your intuition was working. Both of those fields you're able to not only help but influence the lives of young people. Well done.  I'm always being asked this question so I'm going to ask you the same thing. How long does it typically take you to write a book? Wendy: It depends on the length of the book, but usually 4-6 months, although I have been known to write faster given an incentive like a challenge from a critique partner or if the story is flowing easily. Dyanne: LOL.  I' always write much faster when my critique partner challenge me. Wendy, can you tell us where the ideas for your books come from? Wendy: Usually from an interesting news story, or an overheard conversation (heads up—writers like to eavesdrop), just people watching or sometimes an idea pops up out of nowhere or after a dream when your subconscious is hard at work. Dyanne:  ROFL.  You weren't supposed to warn people that we eavesdrop then make up stories. Where is your favorite place to write, where do you feel most creative? Wendy: I sit on my couch with my laptop in the mornings. I’m always the first one up and the house is quiet free of distractions. I sit down with my cup of Chai tea and after checking emails, start to write. If I’m on a writing roll, I can keep the writing going all day. If not, I try to make a page count even if it kills me. Dyanne: Do you have any role models? Have there been any other writers that have inspired you? Wendy: I have some great friends who are writers. As a general rule, we tend to be more introverted than most others, but love to talk about stories when we get together. The vibe from being around like-minded people is contagious, even if you think your imagination has gone and left you and you’ll never think of another story, one night with writing friends gets the juices flowing again. So writers who’ve inspired me have been my critique partners. When we get together it’s magic. Dyanne: You know Wendy, I think that's one of the reasons I'm always pointing aspiring writers toward RWA and Windy City in particular.  There is more than camaraderie in being around writers.  You feed each other creatively. There's an automatic cheering squad waiting there for you to succeed and crying with you over the rejections. Thank you, Wendy. I'm so glad you brought that up. So tell us, when you're not writing, what do you like to do for fun? Wendy: Like most writers, I love to read. I read a lot of romances, but also other genres as well. Variety is a beautiful thing and makes reading less predictable, although I do require a satisfying ending. I love to listen to music, everything from current stuff to blues. It makes me happy. My husband and I like to go to concerts either in Chicago or at an outdoor venue in the area called Ravinia. We’ve seen Diana Krall, John Haitt, Counting Crows and Van Morrison and way back when, Marvin Gaye—which was to-die-for. I also quilt. I’ve sewn as far back as I can remember and used to make my own clothes and actually thought at one point I’d be a dress designer when I started classes at junior college. I quickly learned I didn’t want to do that for a living. Then I started making quilts and that’s pretty much all I sew nowadays. Dyanne: Do you have anything that you'd like to say to your readers? Wendy: My hope, as a writer, is that my book has allowed you the time and space to escape everyday life and enter a world that is full of twists and turns and always happy endings. Dyanne: What kind of advice would you give to new writers? Wendy: Write, write, write—every day—even when you don’t feel like writing. Set a daily page count and stick with it, even when the words you are putting out sound like crap, just keep writing, eventually it all comes together. Be patient and don’t give up even when you feel like it will never happen. Believe me, I’ve been there—and still visit that place occasionally—if you’re a writer you won’t be able to quit. No writer than I know of is an overnight success. They’ve worked hard at their craft for years before they’ve made it, even if it seems differently. Find a supportive writing group and, hopefully, a great critique group that you can count on to help you weather the trials and tribulations of what being a writer entails. Everyone needs a support system and while your significant other can be a support, nobody like a fellow writer can both feel your pain and celebrate your joy. Only they know all the blood, sweat, and tears that went into your masterpiece. Dyanne: Yeah!! Wendy has agreed to give us a little sample of her books. Thanks Wendy. Fractured, Genesis Press, December, 2011 Isabella burrowed further into her jacket, and readied her gun. Despite the dark, she could sense their beady-eyed presence; hear them scurrying around in the over-full trashcans, and suppressed a shudder. No way no how would a bunch of rodents deter her. Besides, they were the least of her problems. She fingered the worn edges of the handkerchief tucked into the pocket of her jeans for luck. Waiting in an alley, in this neighborhood at this time of night was dangerous. And stupid. Landry had taken down a gangbanger not even a block from here only about a week ago. Landry Taylor . . .geez, thinking about him or anything remotely connected to him could only distract her. Right now she needed to focus. But every time she tried, he popped into her head. Why? Maybe because he’d tell her how crazy she was for taking this kind of risk. Maybe because it had been six months since they’d broken up. Maybe because he was tall, dark and sexy and she had a serious need to get laid. The sound registered seconds before the bullet knocked her off her feet with the ferocity of an NFL linebacker. Searing pain spread through her chest and lungs leaking into her kidneys and abdomen.  “What . . .the . . .he . . .?” Her chest hitched while she struggled to breathe. Mama Said . . . Genesis Press, April, 2012 Gabriella shifted, clumsily finding the right gear. The Porsche responded with a lurch, the wheels spinning for a second or two before taking hold on the slick pavement. At three a.m. on a Thursday morning, I-294 North, the highway connecting Illinois with Wisconsin, was nearly deserted. After a glance in the rearview mirror, she drew in a long deep breath. Her passenger moaned in his seat, excruciating pain etched onto his face. At least he was still alive. For a terrifying couple of minutes, she wasn’t sure he was still breathing. Despite the circumstances, she nearly smiled as she envisioned the headline:   Gabriella Santos Saves Shane O’Neil She imagined the details that would follow: Gabriella Santos, stiletto-wearing blues singer, courageously saves big bad Shane O’Neil, all six foot four inches and two hundred pounds of him. Then again, she shouldn’t get ahead of herself. G.I. Jane she wasn’t. But still, by some kind of miracle, she’d pulled it off. At least for the time being. Apprehensive after everything she’d gone through in the last several hours, she peeked at his still form. He definitely needed a doctor. But before he passed out, she had promised him no cops and no hospital. Since they had both been preoccupied dodging bullets at the time, she hadn’t asked for an explanation. For the time being, she felt obligated to honor his wishes. Fighting the urge to poke him just to hear him moan so she’d know he was still alive, she settled for finding a centimeter of skin not bruised or swollen and touched it. When he felt warm but not feverish, she let out a sigh of relief. Since leaving Florida a month ago, she’d been followed, mugged, threatened and shot at. She wasn’t in law enforcement like her brothers. She wasn’t even gainfully employed most of the time. She was a blues singer, flitting from one gig to another, never quite knowing where she’d find herself. But the very last place she would have expected to be during the early morning hours of August twenty-fourth was running from a carload of bad guys with a nearly dead man sitting next to her. How could she possibly take care of a half-dead guy when she couldn’t even take care of herself? The Christmas Curse, November, 2012 Ten days until D-Day Tessa Stevens grimaced as she fought to ignore the drunken carolers singing an off-key and rather lewd version of “Jingle Bells”. bahumbug. Christmas was her Achilles’ heel. Her kryptonite. The mother of all curses. She was a menace to society and shouldn’t be out in public. But to get this over with, she’d agreed to come to the home of her soon-to-be-ex Max, despite the warning bells ringing inside her head. With only ten days left until Christmas, she should be in hiding, not traipsing into the night to remedy this last little glitch in their divorce. Max, of all people, should remember the curse that voodoo priestess cast on the women in her family, the one that was especially potent at Christmas. But nooooo, he had to have the papers signed tonight, not after New Year’s. He’d recited something about tax liabilities and a vacation to St. Mortiz, but she’d blocked out the details. With the prospect of finally having this whole marriage fiasco behind her, she’d thrown her coat over her leopard print pj’s, stuffed her feet into her Uggs, started up her trusty Toyota and made the short drive to his brownstone. While she’d never been to his house, she knew the neighborhood well—upscale, trendy and uber expensive. Max was a flashy kind of guy so his home choice wasn’t too surprising. She, on the other hand, liked to keep a low profile and had a home/artist’s studio on Printers Row in Chicago. With the two of them being such polar opposites, she shouldn’t have married him in the first place. She’d never loved him. But then, not loving him was the point. The cautionary words of her great grandmother reverberated in her ears, ‘Never marry for love, or it will surely bring disaster.’ Dyanne:  Wendy, thank you so much for the interview. This is the last thing I promise. Can I have your web address so readers can find you and a buy link for your latest work? Wendy: http://www.amazon.com/The-Christmas-Curse-ebook/dp/B00A9HFMHU/ref=la_B006T5BXQU_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357578037&sr=1-1

MERRY CHRISTMAS,


So I tried to get fancy with the first greeting and couldn't find the delete button. LOL.  I suppose that is an indication that I take to long to post. I see there are many new features that I didn't know about.

Anyway I wanted to take a moment the say, safe and happy holiday to all of you and thank you for your continued support.

Dyanne

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR

Check out the names on the front cover. That's right. Look closely. Yeah, that's me.  Yeah. 

 

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Okay, so I didn't do this yesterday. But...I'm back today.  I know most people are used to reading romance from me.  I also write paranormal under F.D. Davis.  But for this story I wanted to introduce those of you who are not familiar with that side of what I write to my first ever demon. I loved, loved, loved writing Vulcan. This excerpt is the first chapter.  If you have any interest in reading the rest it's available in eformat from Amazon and B&N

Dyanne

AKA

F.D. Davis

                                                THE GOOD SIDE OF EVIL

 

          Vulcan’s tongue was shoved as far down Tatiana’s throat as he could get it and his hand was shoved up her skirt and inside her velvet wetness. She was moaning her desire and with his opposite hand he moved to unzip his pants and give them both what they wanted. Moving so that his back would be the one pressed against the kitchen countertop he caught a glance at the face frowning at him in the massive refrigerator in his doublewide custom built RV. Instinctively his hold on Tatiana loosened as he turned to glare at Bodie.

          “Don’t you ever do anything else? And in the kitchen no less. You have a bedroom, try using it.”

          “Shit,” Vulcan cursed letting go of Tatiana to square off with Bodie. “What the hell are you doing here and why do you always insist on showing up without an invitation?”

          “I don’t need an invitation. Try me demon and I’ll smoke your ass.”

          A low growl began in the base of his throat and traveled upward coming out with fire and some smoke. Vulcan was pissed. Hell, he knew good and damn well he was a demon. He’d been born one, had lived as one for several hundred years. but still the arrogant, disrespectful way that Bodie called him one made him forget that and want to lash out at her to defend his very birth. He was able to control his baser tendencies most times, at least at the times he chose.  She was the proverbial thorn in his side.

          “Have I told you lately I’m getting a bit sick of this shit? I’m a part of the team. How many years will it take for you to understand that? Like it or not and don’t be too quick to think you can ‘smoke’ me because I can assure you it won’t be going down like that.” He glared for a long moment at Bodie, angered that he’d allowed traces of his European accent to slip into his speech. The 6’2” woman standing there glaring at him was the only woman in the world who could touch him on every level.  He didn’t like it and never had. He allowed his gaze to roam over her voluptuous body irritating her in the process. He watched in amusement as color tinged her olive complexion and the muscle in her right jaw jumped noticeably. Tatiana squirmed a bit and Vulcan knew she was backing away. She tried not to show it but she was a bit afraid of Bodie. Hell, who in their right mind wouldn’t be? Tatiana was tall but still several inches shorter than Bodie and about twenty pounds lighter. If it came down to a fight there was no doubt who’d win. Then again, Bodie was a trained fighter Tatiana wasn’t

          Before moving his fingers to angrily rezip his fly, Vulcan pressed his lips once more against Tatiana’s before turning to glare at Bodie. Damn woman, she pissed him off every damn time he saw her. What the hell was wrong with her anyway? Sure he knew she had a chip on her shoulder, a big fucking chip. And an even bigger one where he was concerned. She was a bad ass demon hunter, a member of the Carnivale Diabolique elite guardian squad.

          Well, fuck that shit. So was he. If she couldn’t deal with the fact that he was a demon then fuck her, he’d pulled her ass out of scraps more than once. If he didn’t know his true worth to the team he might have gotten a complex. But he did know his worth. Regardless of all their bluster and magical powers Vulcan had his powers as well as something the others didn’t posses. He was the only one of the team that could step foot in the demon world.

          A smile slipped across his face and he nodded in understanding. That was more than likely why Bodie was here. She needed a little reconnaissance and hated to ask. She hated asking for anything. Whoever had shagged her after him had fucked up her mind but good. It was obvious Bodie wasn’t going to speak so he did.

          “I asked you already to state your business. If you don’t have any business then I’ll go back to mine.”  He grinned in Tatiana’s direction and moved toward her shoving his hand back under her short skirt and his tongue in her mouth.

          “You’re disgusting,” Bodie said finally deciding to speak.

          He ignored Bodie’s words and continued kissing Tatiana.

          “I thought you were sleeping with Jessica,” Bodie remarked.

          Now what business was it of Bodie’s to keep tabs of who he was screwing? He paused and glanced over his shoulder. “I am sleeping with Jessica if that’s any of your concern and before you ask, yes, I’m also screwing Ariel. But we do have an extra bedroom here if you’re interested.”

          “You’re disgusting.”

          “You’ve already said that.”

          “Then it bears repeating.”

          Rolling his eyes Vulcan returned to kissing Tatiana knowing it wouldn’t be much longer before Bodie blurted out her reason for being there.  He moved his fingers purposefully inside Tatiana and tweaked her clit bringing out a moan from her and a disgusted grunt from Bodie.

          “I need your help, okay.  I think a riff has opened up in, No Town Illinois and I need someone to check it out.”

          “Someone,” Vulcan teased as he began kissing Tatiana’s neck.

          “I need you, you demon piece of shit.”

          “You say demon like that’s a bad thing. There are some that believe demons to be the fallen angels.” Vulcan paused a moment to give his words a chance to register. When Bodie’s eyes widened, he smiled and continued. “I am not just ‘a demon.’  I am a Quattrollieum demon.”

          For a long moment Bodie glared at Vulcan until curiosity got the better of her. “I thought you were born of a demon of war and a pleasure demon. Where did the Quattrollieum stuff come from?”           

          “In order to describe my powers you would need to know my proper name. That is my proper name.”

          “What the hell does it mean?”

          “It means that at my birth others came to pay homage and gifted me with a portion of their powers. It means that I can do many things. It means I have the gifts of many demons, not as great as the original but still I have them. I am Quattrollieum and there are very few of us.”

          “And your father is just a plain pleasure demon and your mother is a demon of war?”

          Vulcan gave a short brittle laugh before gazing at Bodie and holding it. “You would be unable to pronounce the proper names, so I simplify for human. My mother is called a Yasaroiro Demon and my father is a Nanewequa.”  A half smile graced Vulcan’s lips as he watched Bodie. “And that’s the shortened version.”

          “I could care less what kind of demon you are. You’re still a demon and I still need your help,” Bodie replied.

          “And if you need me I think you’d better adjust your damn attitude. You knew I was a demon when you brought your ass here.  This,” he said finally pushing away from Tatiana, “belongs to me. This is my domain. I am master over it. If I didn’t take this shit from Kolliadon I’m damn sure not taking it from you. Show some respect.”

          “Why don’t you show me some? Screwing someone right in front of me, that’s no respect for you, Tatiana or me.”

          Vulcan narrowed his eyes. Bodie was really pissing him off big time. If she had an axe to grind let her do it in someone else’s backyard. “You came uninvited into my home while I was in the middle of taking care of my own damn business.”

          “You could have stopped.”

          “And you could have knocked.”

          “Hey, Bodie, listen you go ahead and talk to Vulcan. The mood’s pretty much ruined anyway,” Tatiana said standing and sighing in annoyance as she looked in Bodie’s direction. When she glanced at Vulcan she gave him a smile and sashayed off.

          “Tell me something, Vulcan. How in the world do three women allow you to sleep with all of them?” Bodie asked.

          “First off we do very little sleeping. Second it’s my house my rules.”

          “There’re all lesbians?”

          “I don’t do lesbians.” He stopped. “You should know that. One woman in my bed at a time…for now.  But I’m not going to even begin to lie and tell you that one woman can ever satisfy my appetite.” He held her gaze. “Understand?” He saw her swallow. “It’s nothing personal. I am part pleasure demon.” he said more softly.

          “Yeah and I’m a demon hunter.” Bodie sighed, walked from the kitchen and sat on a beige divan stretching out her legs. “This is wrong on so many levels. I have so many reasons to not trust you. Every time I have to ask for your help it feels like I’m selling a little piece of my soul.” She glanced down the hall toward the bedrooms. “And don’t think I can’t sense that you have a barrier around all three of them. I know they’re not human.”

          “Are they demons?”

          “I’m not sure what the hell they are and that’s what bothers me about all of this. You say you’re on the team but you have too many secrets for my taste. All of the other guardians stay close to the Carnivale. But not you, no you always have to have a place so far out that it takes time to find you. Besides that, you cloak your whereabouts.”

          “If that’s true I don’t do a very good job of it because you always find me.” Vulcan stared into Bodie’s eyes. “Or perhaps I don’t cloak myself from you, Bodie.  Perhaps I want you to be able to find me if you need me.”

          “You’re up to something and I know it. It has to do with the women. I’m not stupid and neither is the council. They allow you liberties because so far you’ve done as they’ve asked. So far you appear to be on our side.”

          “They allow me liberties because first and foremost they can’t control me. And secondly, I make them nervous. After all the years of working with them, they still flinch in my presence.”

          “If you’re so uncomfortable why do you stay with the CD?  Besides, you and Anuru are good friends.”

          “But what about you, Bodie?  I’m still a demon to you.  Like you, Bodie, I’m not stupid. I live away from the Carnivale to bring peace of mind to you.”

          “Bullshit. You’re up to something.”

          “Is that the reason you burst in here, to see if you could catch me up to something?” Vulcan lifted his chin a bit and pierced past her block.  “Ahh so I see. A couple of demons came out on your watch and you’re ticked. Now you want me to go and find them.” He waited. When she didn’t answer he continued. “You’re aware aren’t you that every time I return to the demon realm I put myself in danger?”

          “I’m aware.”

          “And you just don’t care is that it?”

          “You’re expendable. We all are.”

          “So it’s like that?”

          “It’s like that.”

          “No, it’s not like that.  If it were, the council would have never made me a guardian. You should be thanking me for joining the fight. Should Kolliadon ever come you’re going to need me and you’re going to be begging me to bring more demons into the battle.  Nothing is ever as it seems Bodie.  There are as many sides to evil as there are many sides to good. At times the two are interchangeable. It can take one deed to make the good turn evil and one to make the evil turn good. Think about that, Bodie. Your harsh judgment of me is a slow slide into hell. Judge not lest ye be judged. And if it were I doing the judging I would pronounce you evil. If you had the ability to bring forth fire from your body you would roast me where I stand. But look at me, I have that ability and I allow you to live unscathed from the fire that burns within me.”

          Rubbing his hands together Vulcan studied Bodie then he steepled his hands lacing the fingers together and came to a decision. He’d help her. He always did. “What’s my assignment?”

          “Find the two demons that escaped me. I can’t give you a lot of information. I only sensed them. But a dozen reports that can’t be anything but demon activity has me worried. There’re cloaked as usual.” Bodie paused and smirked at Vulcan. “You should know all about that. That’s what you demons prefer.  I want you to find out where the riff is and close it. It would help if you can tell me what kinds of demons are streaming out and if they’re planning something big or if this is just some low level demons escaping like you did,” she stopped.

          “Baby, I was never low level and I never escaped. I left.”

          “And just like that decided to go all good guy?”

          “I never told anyone that I’d gone all good guy. I have enemies in the demon realm and for now it suits my purpose to work with the Carnivale. The enemies of my enemies are my….well let’s say, you’re ‘Not’ my enemy.”

          “So you’re not working with us to help us to save the world?”

          “Not exactly. But if the world gets saving while I do my thing, cool.” He gave her a hard look. “For now lets say it suits my purpose as well as yours that no demon finds a portal to slither through.”

          “Are you afraid?”

          “Do I look afraid?” Vulcan asked calmly his tone underlying his annoyance. No other woman could anger him the way that Bodie did. Then again no other woman could... He licked his lips and gave her a long hard look.

          “Don’t go there, Vulcan, not even in your thoughts or I will and I mean will, ice your ass.” Bodie gave him a look and got up from the divan touching her finger tips to the pieces of Egyptian art scattered about Vulcan’s massive RV. Her breathing was rapid, she swallowed several times wishing that she could keep it from Vulcan but she couldn’t.  He was a high level demon with powers she’d never witnessed in anyone else and powers he’d never shown even in battle. But the powers were there just the same, raging just beneath the surface being contained by Vulcan. She was so aware of his powers that she’d not even needed her telepathic abilities to know that he was the best weapon they had in their arsenal against evil. Now if only she could trust that the power would be used in the fight for good. But she wasn’t. Like Vulcan said good and evil were both sometimes just different sides of the same coin.

          “How soon can you leave, Vulcan?”

          “Give me a day or two.”

          “I was thinking more like an hour or two.”

          “Well you thought wrong. I have to make sure my ladies are safe while I’m gone.”

          “I’ll take care of them.”

          For the first time since Bodie’s arrival Vulcan laughed.  The thought of leaving his ladies with Bodie was a joke, something he’d never do in a million years. She was spiteful and vengeful on a good day, who knew what she was like on a bad day. Well, he did for one. And he’d never leave them in her care not if he wanted to come back and find them in one piece, alive, and well and breathing on their own.  “No, thanks, I’ll take care of them. I’ll get back to you when I have info.”

          “You’re afraid I’ll hurt them?”

          Vulcan grinned not bothering to answer.

          “I wouldn’t hurt them.”

          “I’m a demon not a fool. Besides, if we’re to use the Carnivale as our cover I can’t just walk away.  I have fans that come religiously to see me perform.”

          “Lockridge will give you the time off that you need.  Why do I have to explain this? You know the deal. You don’t get to pick and chose when you work. You work when a demon appears or hopefully before one appears.”

          “Lockridge is not my master. I told you I will do my show and take necessary precautions to ensure the ladies are here when I return.  These demons got out on your watch, Bodie, not mine. Either take what I offer or leave and ask for another guardian to help you.  Ask Anaru, he’ll help.”

          Bodie gritted her teeth in anger wishing the council didn’t give Vulcan such a wide berth. “Fine, two days,” she snapped.  “You’d better hope nothing really bad jumps off or the council is not going to hold you in such high esteem. Your ass is going to get called on the carpet like anyone else if you screw this up.”

          “See you later, Bodie, and next time please knock before entering my home.” Vulcan stood wondering if Bodie would leave without a fight or a parting remark. When she vanished without either he knew she was seriously worried.

          If the Intel he’d been receiving was correct Bodie and the entire Carnivale had a reason to be worried. Vulcan had been getting some serious vibes for a few months that things weren’t right. His ladies had said things to him that alerted his senses and he’d stepped up the patrol. A long heavy sigh filled the spaces in his chest cavity but he refused to allow it to come out. Sighing was useless and he generally only gave into it when Bodie was around. She pushed so many buttons in him, the same buttons he’d once wanted her to push.

          Regardless, the sigh came out unbidden. Bodie was right. He’d better not go down that road.  He needed to do as he‘d said and make sure his ladies would be safe. They were his personal charges and he’d hate to go into a killing frenzy if someone did something to hurt one of them. They belonged to him and he’d fight to the last breath to protect what was his.

          A chuckle slid out. He was sort of like his mother on that point. She was a true Yasaroiro, a one-hundred-percent- warrior-demon, kick ass, take no prisoners, kill with finesse and drop you where you stood demon. He wondered as he’d done a million times how his father had ever found the courage to approach her. It wasn’t as though his father was without skills and powers but his main attribute was giving pleasure. He was a Nanewequa demon and Vulcan was a combination of the both with some serious DNA from all the demons past in his family. They’d found a way to instill the attributes of all the ancient ones to keep them strong. Oh yes, he had powers that no one was aware of, powers he’d never allow them to see. They knew what they needed to know about him and that was enough.

          Besides giving his allegiance to the guardian team Vulcan enjoyed his work with the Carnivale Diabolique. Being a fire-eater who also swallowed swords for the amusement of the paying customers in order to keep his cover suited him. He was good at it and it was something he did with finesse and little effort. Though he made a big spectacle, lights, cameras, action that sort of thing, he could have done his act in the dark. He’d been ordered to keep things low key, stay out of the human radar, blend in as it were.  

          And that was when the trouble stated. Taking orders was the last thing Vulcan planned to do. So he’d made his act the most visited in the whole damn Carnivale. Perhaps he was being a bit ornery. He wouldn’t deny that possibility. After all his being a demon by it’s very nature meant that within his makeup it contained many traits that on occasion Vulcan had tempered, malice, deceit, greed, envy, vindictiveness. He had them all and each day he did battle with one of them. Then of course there was Bodie who’d accused him of male bravado and cockiness. If it had been possible to have been with any woman and remain faithful it would have been Bodie.

          As the women strutted back into the room Vulcan smiled. One by one he observed them. When Vulcan had his charges lined up he looked at each of them in turn. “When the show is over tonight I do not want you returning home until I come for you.  I do not want you hanging around the Carnivale either. No matter how nice they treat you, you have to be wary. They are not family. I will send you away until it is safe for you to return.”

          “Where are you sending us?” Ariel asked.

          “I can not tell you that. I need to know you’re all safe.”

          “But why can’t we know?” Ariel insisted on asking again.

          “If you don’t know you can’t accidentally tell anyone.” He gave the women a small smile and shrugged. “Sorry, but that’s the way it has to be. We’ll do our show tonight then we’re all going to leave here for a few days.  I have a mission and so do you.”           

          “Yeah something dirty. Bodie treats you like a piece of shit and us as well. But anytime she wants a job done that will more than likely get someone killed she comes to you. Why does she come to you so often to do jobs if she hates you so much? Is she seriously wanting you dead?” Jessica asked with her hand on her hip and the other resting on Vulcan’s inner thigh.

          Vulcan couldn’t help but laugh. The answer to that question was yes; Bodie wanted him dead and had for a very long time. Some of the blame was his. He could have and should have told her what he was before taking her to bed, before she fell in love with him. But hell that had been years ago and he’d cloaked what he was out of past knowledge of humans, not out of malice. The same for his charges, she’d kill them without batting an eye if she knew for sure they were demons. The women didn’t even know that all these years he’d kept them cloaked. Part of their cloak came about when he made love to them. They went about their business thinking that humans at the Carnivale were so used to different creatures that they didn’t care how they looked. He’d wanted to shield them for as long as possible. He didn’t want to tell them that prejudices existed on all level and in the mortal world when it concerned demons it was some truly foul shit. As near as he could figure the shield lasted a month or so. The information was vital to Vulcan so he could gage how long he could leave the women. He sighed. He’d have to tell them eventually. They had a right to know.

          Humans and many other creatures wanted to label demons, give them a certain look, a race, horns and bulging eyes. When the plain simple truth was that each person that looked upon a demon saw what they wanted to see.  Most demons did have some birthmark that would scream, not human. That was the danger in them being uncloaked. If a demon had… say a tail… for instance, the human would automatically perceive him with horns he didn’t have and things would happen, words spoken, anger and there you go, another dead human.

          Rarely did Vulcan reveal his true essence to anyone, not even to his charges. He was like a chameleon able to change to whatever was needed with no more than a thought, able to hold a million different images simultaneously. He’d never understood why the human race was so hung up on its origin, its race. They were all the same species, weak, selfish beings that required the protection from such as him, but would be the first to take up arms against him if they knew what he was.

          Vulcan shook his head slowly as he realized he’d contemplated much too long. His charges were anxious, taking their cue from him, wondering if things would go wrong, if Vulcan would return for them. He had to assure them this was mainly a scouting mission just to find the riff connected to the portal and see who and what caused it.  If it were an easy job he’d take care of it, if not he’d plan maybe calling in the Calvary. But for now the women had little reason to worry.  They were relatively safe.

                                                               

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