Dump site

Also Jeremy, my boy, you're all grown up ❤

Cassis I think you're justified in hating your future older brother-in-law (I have no idea if he marries Roxana or not). Also love the fact you kept Lant on the verge of permanent death while taking your revenge. And the fact (I did skimmed over the chapter this was revealed and have not yet reread it properly so I may have gotten this wrong) he has to take the life force of living creatures to give some to others? All for Roxana? Beautiful but also twisted.

However, I am a bit confused about Maria. I was just going off of spoilers and Reddit threads that say she doesn't care much about him. But she saved Dion from Cassis without a second thought and it even said that even though it was too dark to see who exactly was fighting, she instinctively knew one of them was Dion. So, I'm guessing she does care to some extent?? Or am I reading too much in this. If anyone can tell me I'd be grateful.

Roxana I love you, especially when the line where you said Dion placed his leash in your hands. Love you my girl.

Also fuck man, they all need therapy. They could have had a decent relationship at least if it wasn't for Lant.

Also, I could be wrong since I'm not finished with the novel, but I think Dion is finally starting to feel regret/guilt? Idk about remorse, but it does look like guilt is there and he doesn't understand why he's feeling like that. I do think his conversation with Sierra was very much needed.

I feel so fuckinh bad for the Red Master man. She seems like a decent woman and head of the family - she did not deserve what happened. She tried to stop the drug exchange and tried to help the hardcore addicts. Imo I think she could have if it wasn't for the asshole who gave everyone drugged water because they were having a withdrawal.

I do like that they explained what the deal Fontaine made was. I didn't expect it to be a drug deal, and especially one going down between the Agriches and Castros. And if I'm understanding everything correctly (I read this chapter half asleep) her husband is the one or at least the main one who kicked off the addiction for everyone.

I understand why she's letting them get more drugs. They're too addicted to even behave and function normally without them. Her own physicians told her it's probably for the best if they stay on the drugs. If she remains a decent person (I have no idea how she was develop as a character and the same goes for Luzark (I mean in the og timeline weren't all of the male leads horrible?) I hope they manage to help their clan members to recover.

Idk why but I find it both funny and sad that Dion chooses to spite Maria by NOT taking the medication when she's there since he knows she's only tending to him so she can kick him out faster lol.

I also do like how despite not caring for him much, if at all (I'm still getting mixed vibes here), she didn't throw him out on the streets because he's her son. Also man was depressed af. They all are.

Jeremy my boy you are now a man.

Yohan (?) Staying for Roxana is kind of sweet but also funny.

Also... I did read spoilers that said Pandora tries to flirt with Dion but it goes over his head. And that just gives me even more ideas. Delicious ideas.

But I am surprised she didn't try to assault Roxana like she did with Sylvia in the OG novel (if yk then yk. Jfc poor Sylvia).

Nix... Oh Nix. I did read somewhere that he died happily but I have yet to read it.

On Reddit I did see a portion of one of the side stories where Roxana got lost in a maze and Dion Secretly/indirectly helped her when they were kids and the aftermath of Achille's death... And bro. Lant deserved more torture for what he did to those kids. So much more.

If lant has no haters than I'm dead.

I like how Cassis isn't a goody two shoes. Also find it funny how he gave Dion his life span back like it was nothing. Dion just got strangled by both his own mother and his brother-in-law. And he wasn't awake for either.

Thinking of something with that now actually....

Anyway, I finished the main story and I have to wait -

I'M CURRENTLY READING THE FIRST SIDE STORY AS I WRITE THIS AND I DID NOT EXPECT TO SEE SIERRA'S MAIDEN NAME????

Colonis.

OMG CHILD DION WAS JUST AN ASS ABOUT SOME STUFF ("he had the nerve to tell me that no one needs a reason to throw out trash," in reference of Roxana confronting him about throwing away the candy Achille gave him).

THAT'S SO BEAUTIFUL AND SAD. I CRIED WHEN ROXANA MADE THE HALLUCINATION FOR HIM. WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE DIED IN THE HALLUCINATIONS OF KID ROXANA'S AND SIERRA'S ARMS. WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE BECAME YOUNGER BEFORE HE WAS KILLED.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN ROXANA GAVE HIS ASHES TO SIERRA AND BOTH HER AND ROXANA HUGGED WHILE HOLDING ACHILLE'S ASHES, THE LAST EMBRACE THEY WILL SHARE WITH ALL 3 OF THEM.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE WAS LAYING ON ROXANA'S LAP IN REALITY WHEN HE DID DIE.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE CLOSED HIS EYES THINKING HE WAS GOING TO NAP.

You wouldn’t have minded it if you had decided to stay. But you do because you wanted out, tired of his little secrets, the long nights, the hidden phone calls. You would have rather that he was cheating on you, an unfaithful bastard who couldn’t keep it in his pants.

Instead, you got an alien who didn’t understand what ‘no’ meant.

A little too faithful, too love stricken to see past that beautiful, beautiful tinted rose filter. And he wanted the same from you, it seems. With sharp teeth and an iron grip, he held you in place, desperate after an hour of pleas that were so unlike him.

One of his hands held the back of your neck, keeping you in place. His ring feels cold, his blunt nails feel sharp, he’s stronger, bigger than you. Resistance was futile.

His teeth dig deeper, rougher. Tears form in your eyes, running down your face in big, fat streaks, sobbing into the collar of his coat. Everything is a blur, and his free hand rubs circles into your back, attempting to soothe you. It doesn’t, it makes you feel worse because it reminds you that this man is not just a monster but has feelings and guilt like everyone else –

You genuinely, genuinely hate this alien? Man? You despise him, wanted to scalp him alive, to stab a knife through his heart until the only color you could see was red. But you would never be able to do that. Nor will you be able to drive a knife through your own heart just to escape your dammed faith.

“I’m sorry, please endure it for a bit longer…,” he gasps out before he sinks his teeth into your neck again. Your own dug into his hair, fingers pulling at his roots. The tears don’t stop and neither does his bite.

“Hurts – it hurts!” sobbing, you still attempt to push and pull his head away, but to no avail. It’s a miracle you’re still alive, breathing, and able to think. Crimson runs down your neck, stains your pretty lacy white shirt, all the while the man enjoys his sweet, sweet time with you. Like enjoying a juicy steak.

“…Hah… it’s done,” his tone, despite being comforting, was a shrill scream in your ear. His tongue pokes out, only to lick the wound, saliva mixing in with blood. It’s slimy and roughish, with a squishiness to it. Like a warm wet rag pressed against your neck. The only difference being it’s an organic tongue and not some fabric.

“… I’m sorry,” another lick, another circle rubbed onto your back. It hurts, it hurts, it hurts, it hurts –

“I know it hurts… I forgot how… fragile humans could be. I’m sorry.” Too tired to fight back anymore, you fall limp in his embrace. Your jaw goes slack, eyelids too heavy to keep open. The void is calling for you.

You should have rejected his help, that day. You should have carried those heavy bags up the stairs that day, even if it meant you would have pulled a muscle or two. You should have ignored him when you kept running into him, both of you surprised to see the other so frequently. You should have kept your mouth shut and feelings hidden, your confession forgotten and your first kiss nonexistent.

Should have done this, should have done that – it’s too late to wallow in the past. The mirror cracked long ago, just like your sense of self. Like your trust in the one person who should have been your ‘everything.’ Whatever that was.

Something you realized was harmful for you, but he refused to acknowledge it. To accept it.

You should have rejected his invitation to his apartment. To get your stuff back. You should have avoided him instead of still trusting him once he let his true identity slip through that tongue of his. How naïve and stupid of you.

Stupid, stupid, stupid girl.

“I haven’t felt this way about anyone, before.”

Neither have you.

“You make me rethink my stance on humans.” He sits you down on his couch, reaching for the medical supplies sitting at the side. He prepared for this. He’s always been ready for this.

You never had a say-so in the matter. How cruel.

“You make me question myself, and what I’m fighting for.” Your eyes shut close, a towel – wet and warm – pressed against the open wound. He holds it there for a good while. Assuring that his prized ‘lover’ would be patched up in no time.

“Our customs are different from yours. It’s painful, even for us. But you don’t have to relive this pain.” You’re vaguely aware of the cotton ball, of the scent of medical ointments and the towel being pressed against the bleeding wound once more. You’re too tired to open your eyes, but you fear you might die if you don’t.

“… You should… have let me go.” It’s broken and weak, almost less than a whisper, but you manage to talk. It’s painful and took extreme amounts of effort, but you talked. You almost wish you would die – but the fear of meeting nothing but a black abyss on the other side of the road scares you more than this fiend.

He doesn’t say anything. Just tends to the wound that he inflected on you like it was just another Tuesday night. You never asked for this. You would have never asked for this, the pain, the betrayal he’s hidden from you these past two years.

You almost wish he only said ‘yes’ just to use you. A sick twisted sense of humor, a past time he could always forget at a later date. Amusement that would grow boring, dull. A toy he could have left in an open field, neither destroying it nor loving it.

If this was a romance story, then this would have been the best ending. Two crossed-star-lovers who put aside their differences to be together. One changing his view on the ‘enemy’ because his sweetheart was from that group. They fail to show the ugly side of ‘love.’

You had chosen a rotten apple and now it has poisoned you.

“… I know that you must hate me.”

You do, you hate him as much as you fear him.

“But I…”

Ring!

Ring!

Ring!

His phone goes off exactly three times before he fishes it out of his coat pocket, a sneer displayed on his mouth. His teeth show, dyed red. Still sharper than a knife.

You don’t get to see the caller ID.

“– General! Listen, I know that it is your off day – “

“Get to the point. I’m giving you five seconds before I hang up.”

You don’t get to hear the conversation, either. You could barely feel the wet rag dabbing your neck. Or the smell of herbs. You wonder if he would let you die just like this. Or if he would find a way to ‘save’ you.

Nothing matters anymore, you suppose.

Also Jeremy, my boy, you're all grown up ❤

Cassis I think you're justified in hating your future older brother-in-law (I have no idea if he marries Roxana or not). Also love the fact you kept Lant on the verge of permanent death while taking your revenge. And the fact (I did skimmed over the chapter this was revealed and have not yet reread it properly so I may have gotten this wrong) he has to take the life force of living creatures to give some to others? All for Roxana? Beautiful but also twisted.

However, I am a bit confused about Maria. I was just going off of spoilers and Reddit threads that say she doesn't care much about him. But she saved Dion from Cassis without a second thought and it even said that even though it was too dark to see who exactly was fighting, she instinctively knew one of them was Dion. So, I'm guessing she does care to some extent?? Or am I reading too much in this. If anyone can tell me I'd be grateful.

Roxana I love you, especially when the line where you said Dion placed his leash in your hands. Love you my girl.

Also fuck man, they all need therapy. They could have had a decent relationship at least if it wasn't for Lant.

Also, I could be wrong since I'm not finished with the novel, but I think Dion is finally starting to feel regret/guilt? Idk about remorse, but it does look like guilt is there and he doesn't understand why he's feeling like that. I do think his conversation with Sierra was very much needed.

I feel so fuckinh bad for the Red Master man. She seems like a decent woman and head of the family - she did not deserve what happened. She tried to stop the drug exchange and tried to help the hardcore addicts. Imo I think she could have if it wasn't for the asshole who gave everyone drugged water because they were having a withdrawal.

I do like that they explained what the deal Fontaine made was. I didn't expect it to be a drug deal, and especially one going down between the Agriches and Castros. And if I'm understanding everything correctly (I read this chapter half asleep) her husband is the one or at least the main one who kicked off the addiction for everyone.

I understand why she's letting them get more drugs. They're too addicted to even behave and function normally without them. Her own physicians told her it's probably for the best if they stay on the drugs. If she remains a decent person (I have no idea how she was develop as a character and the same goes for Luzark (I mean in the og timeline weren't all of the male leads horrible?) I hope they manage to help their clan members to recover.

Idk why but I find it both funny and sad that Dion chooses to spite Maria by NOT taking the medication when she's there since he knows she's only tending to him so she can kick him out faster lol.

I also do like how despite not caring for him much, if at all (I'm still getting mixed vibes here), she didn't throw him out on the streets because he's her son. Also man was depressed af. They all are.

Jeremy my boy you are now a man.

Yohan (?) Staying for Roxana is kind of sweet but also funny.

Also... I did read spoilers that said Pandora tries to flirt with Dion but it goes over his head. And that just gives me even more ideas. Delicious ideas.

But I am surprised she didn't try to assault Roxana like she did with Sylvia in the OG novel (if yk then yk. Jfc poor Sylvia).

Nix... Oh Nix. I did read somewhere that he died happily but I have yet to read it.

On Reddit I did see a portion of one of the side stories where Roxana got lost in a maze and Dion Secretly/indirectly helped her when they were kids and the aftermath of Achille's death... And bro. Lant deserved more torture for what he did to those kids. So much more.

If lant has no haters than I'm dead.

I like how Cassis isn't a goody two shoes. Also find it funny how he gave Dion his life span back like it was nothing. Dion just got strangled by both his own mother and his brother-in-law. And he wasn't awake for either.

Thinking of something with that now actually....

Anyway, I finished the main story and I have to wait -

I'M CURRENTLY READING THE FIRST SIDE STORY AS I WRITE THIS AND I DID NOT EXPECT TO SEE SIERRA'S MAIDEN NAME????

Colonis.

OMG CHILD DION WAS JUST AN ASS ABOUT SOME STUFF ("he had the nerve to tell me that no one needs a reason to throw out trash," in reference of Roxana confronting him about throwing away the candy Achille gave him).

THAT'S SO BEAUTIFUL AND SAD. I CRIED WHEN ROXANA MADE THE HALLUCINATION FOR HIM. WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE DIED IN THE HALLUCINATIONS OF KID ROXANA'S AND SIERRA'S ARMS. WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE BECAME YOUNGER BEFORE HE WAS KILLED.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN ROXANA GAVE HIS ASHES TO SIERRA AND BOTH HER AND ROXANA HUGGED WHILE HOLDING ACHILLE'S ASHES, THE LAST EMBRACE THEY WILL SHARE WITH ALL 3 OF THEM.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE WAS LAYING ON ROXANA'S LAP IN REALITY WHEN HE DID DIE.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE CLOSED HIS EYES THINKING HE WAS GOING TO NAP.

Sex was no different. He would manhandle you without even intending to do so, wanting to have you close to him, merging your body with his on your bedsheets. That’s why he was currently entrapping your form from behind, as you both lied on your sides, a position perfect to hold you close and feel your body. His strong arms were wrapped one around your hips, pushing you onto his cock with draws in from his arms, the other around your chest, fondling your breasts and nipples with his hand. His lips kept sucking on your nape, biting, kissing.

The arm around your hips, its hand would slip between your thighs, rubbing your clit or against your entrance, wanting to feel where his fat cock drove into you. You were being pushed back and forth onto his length, bed creaking, his balls slapping you heavily, yet not once did his grip on you have loosened up, as he whispered praises into your ear.

“Can you feel it, how deep I go? Of course you can…you take me so well after all.”

Sunday - missionary

Despite Sunday’s oftentimes confident demeanor, you were well aware he could be no less but vulnerable and even embarrassed when it came to you both sharing intimacy. He was stilly fairly inexperienced, though always making sure you get your share of pleasure. Sunday also loved intimacy not just for some hedonistic desire, but for how close it put you two together.

He couldn’t really handle any position where he couldn’t see your face. He wanted to see the one he loves, and he needed to be able to tell if you’re enjoying yourself.

Your legs wrapped around his hips, his arms under your torso, he kept rocking into you slowly but deeply, and his eyes would drift between where he disappeared and back onto your face covered in flush and pleasure, lingering there longer. Sunday was drinking in, not even realizing how much he was staring, and when you finally looked him in the eye, none of you looked away, hypnotized by the sway of your hips against each other. Until it was you who was too embarrassed to keep going, gathering blanket into your hand nervously.

“My darling…” he said softly, “Please keep your beautiful eyes on me. I need to see all of you.”

Blade - prone bone

His life full of misery, you were his respite. He did not like he often felt as if he was using you, despite how often you didn’t feel that way, wanting him the same way, if not more. But he could never deny himself of you, if you were offering yourself so shamelessly.

That’s why his heavy body was on top of yours, your face flattened against the mattress. Blade was not crushing you entirely, slightly raising his body above yours on his forearms against the mattress, each on the sides of your prone body, though it only led his harsh thrusts to be more controlled and with that, deeper. Each shove of his cock, you could hear how wet you were for him, and he would groan into your ear.

His face was buried in the space between your neck and shoulder, where he’d kiss you and latch hickeys onto. Where he felt you tighten around him again, he growled. “That’s it…take this pleasure I give you…you did earn it.”

Aventurine - cowgirl

You were his beautiful girl, one he loved to spoil you and see look her best. He loved for his eyes to take in your body every given time of the day, even more to fluster you with his charming compliments.

He also loved to see you on top of him, where Aventurine could observe and see everything that made you this beautiful, including anything he’d bought you recently. He was seated on the armchair in your shared bedroom like a king, your body straddling him chest to chest.

You worked so hard for him, holding onto his hands on your hips, as you sunk down his hard cock deep and fast to ride him with fervor. The necklace he’s given you same day before, kept bouncing against your tits, its green stone disappearing between breasts.

“I am a person with a great luck indeed…if this is who I get to have,” Aventurine praised with genuine pride and appreciation, his hand on your hip travelling higher to meet and grip your waist to push himself even deeper into you. He loved a whine he forced from you, and his other hand rubbed your clit in gratitude, followed by a heated kiss against your lips.

Dr Ratio - over his desk

Veritas would have never seen you in terms of simple lust. He’s seen you for each aspect of you, everything that made you. But even he, would fall a victim to your allure, and with that, desire.

He’s made it very clear he’s not comfortable with PDA at the very beginning of your relationship, only to keep breaking that rule without you even having to ask for. But this was reaching new levels of him thinking with his body, and not mind.

Dr Ratio had you currently bent over his desk, in the very same office of university he’s been teaching at. He was standing behind you, his body covering yours, and pressing your front against the desk; and kept you in place with an arm secured over your belly he stroked with his hand. You visited your boyfriend only to give him lunch, but whether it was something about the weather or any excuse you’d find for each other, you both couldn’t make it home first.

His other hand was covering your mouth, shushing you with a scold each time you tried to be louder than allowed. As much as he was going so far, he still wanted to protect both of yours privacy, not get caught by passing by professors or students. “Keep your mouth shut, love. You wouldn’t want others to hear you, would you?”

But how could you keep quiet? Him hitting you from behind, his thick cock was angled perfectly, its vein rubbing your g-spot with each thrust. Veritas was not being easy on you either—his snaps of hips were mean and almost too deep, and he occasionally silently cursed when you squeezed around him, or managed to let out a beautiful mewl through his fingers. You could have noticed the effect you had on him, with the way his trapping arm gripped your midriff tightly.

“Just bear with being quiet a little longer,” he said, his deep voice now surely trembling, “And I’ll reward you even more once we get home.”

Thankfully, his desk was durable enough.

Also Jeremy, my boy, you're all grown up ❤

Cassis I think you're justified in hating your future older brother-in-law (I have no idea if he marries Roxana or not). Also love the fact you kept Lant on the verge of permanent death while taking your revenge. And the fact (I did skimmed over the chapter this was revealed and have not yet reread it properly so I may have gotten this wrong) he has to take the life force of living creatures to give some to others? All for Roxana? Beautiful but also twisted.

However, I am a bit confused about Maria. I was just going off of spoilers and Reddit threads that say she doesn't care much about him. But she saved Dion from Cassis without a second thought and it even said that even though it was too dark to see who exactly was fighting, she instinctively knew one of them was Dion. So, I'm guessing she does care to some extent?? Or am I reading too much in this. If anyone can tell me I'd be grateful.

Roxana I love you, especially when the line where you said Dion placed his leash in your hands. Love you my girl.

Also fuck man, they all need therapy. They could have had a decent relationship at least if it wasn't for Lant.

Also, I could be wrong since I'm not finished with the novel, but I think Dion is finally starting to feel regret/guilt? Idk about remorse, but it does look like guilt is there and he doesn't understand why he's feeling like that. I do think his conversation with Sierra was very much needed.

I feel so fuckinh bad for the Red Master man. She seems like a decent woman and head of the family - she did not deserve what happened. She tried to stop the drug exchange and tried to help the hardcore addicts. Imo I think she could have if it wasn't for the asshole who gave everyone drugged water because they were having a withdrawal.

I do like that they explained what the deal Fontaine made was. I didn't expect it to be a drug deal, and especially one going down between the Agriches and Castros. And if I'm understanding everything correctly (I read this chapter half asleep) her husband is the one or at least the main one who kicked off the addiction for everyone.

I understand why she's letting them get more drugs. They're too addicted to even behave and function normally without them. Her own physicians told her it's probably for the best if they stay on the drugs. If she remains a decent person (I have no idea how she was develop as a character and the same goes for Luzark (I mean in the og timeline weren't all of the male leads horrible?) I hope they manage to help their clan members to recover.

Idk why but I find it both funny and sad that Dion chooses to spite Maria by NOT taking the medication when she's there since he knows she's only tending to him so she can kick him out faster lol.

I also do like how despite not caring for him much, if at all (I'm still getting mixed vibes here), she didn't throw him out on the streets because he's her son. Also man was depressed af. They all are.

Jeremy my boy you are now a man.

Yohan (?) Staying for Roxana is kind of sweet but also funny.

Also... I did read spoilers that said Pandora tries to flirt with Dion but it goes over his head. And that just gives me even more ideas. Delicious ideas.

But I am surprised she didn't try to assault Roxana like she did with Sylvia in the OG novel (if yk then yk. Jfc poor Sylvia).

Nix... Oh Nix. I did read somewhere that he died happily but I have yet to read it.

On Reddit I did see a portion of one of the side stories where Roxana got lost in a maze and Dion Secretly/indirectly helped her when they were kids and the aftermath of Achille's death... And bro. Lant deserved more torture for what he did to those kids. So much more.

If lant has no haters than I'm dead.

I like how Cassis isn't a goody two shoes. Also find it funny how he gave Dion his life span back like it was nothing. Dion just got strangled by both his own mother and his brother-in-law. And he wasn't awake for either.

Thinking of something with that now actually....

Anyway, I finished the main story and I have to wait -

I'M CURRENTLY READING THE FIRST SIDE STORY AS I WRITE THIS AND I DID NOT EXPECT TO SEE SIERRA'S MAIDEN NAME????

Colonis.

OMG CHILD DION WAS JUST AN ASS ABOUT SOME STUFF ("he had the nerve to tell me that no one needs a reason to throw out trash," in reference of Roxana confronting him about throwing away the candy Achille gave him).

It’s an image that will haunt your dreams, blood spilling onto the ground as he locks you up in a physical cage, corpses scattered around it. Holding the key as he asks you to sing.

You swallow. Your foot rapidly taps on the floor as your mind races with replies you can’t even say. He wasn’t like this in the manhwa. You heard he only got more violent in the novel until a certain point. 

That he was still crazy obsessed with Roxana.

And yet, it is that very man who got on one knee, calling himself your dog. And for what? An ounce of affection? 

A nervous laugh makes its way out as you attempt to play it off. He’s just tired, he’s lonely, he’s only playing with you until you completely break. This is entertainment for him, but it doesn’t change the fact he still has the keys to your handcuffs. He doesn’t plan on unlocking them.

“O-oh, um, oh my - I-I think… I think th-that yo-you need so-some sleep,” quickly gathering yourself, you stand and walk away once Dion gives you enough room. Of course, he doesn’t do so immediately, his eyes instead becoming glazed over with something dangerous. 

He looks at you like you’re his prey, strategies of capturing you happening in real time. The color of his eyes resembles warm blood, and you become uneasy once you realize you could have made him snap just now. There is no visible anger, which should have been a good thing - however, the way he eyes you makes you feel like you’re already between his teeth.

You can feel them piercing your skin already. You rub the side of your neck at the phantom pain.

Taking the opportunity presented, you quickly walk past him. You stop at the door, sweating buckets, twitching fingers almost wrapping around the handle. The reason for your hesitance is simple - his voice. Anxiety picks at you when he calls your name. 

You should leave now. 

Your lips tremble as you reply. The air around you feels heavy. The room is stifling.

Your husband pauses before he continues. “Whether or not you believe me right now, remember I have no plans of letting you go. But feel free to use me as you wish.” 

What is this guy saying!? He’s mental, why can’t he just -

“... have a good nap. You need one.” 

He doesn’t give chase when the doors shut behind you. You don’t let yourself lean against it despite the desperate pleas of your unsteady body. The fact he’s in there is enough to move you, scampering away like some bug. 

Your heels clack on the tile, footsteps echoing too loudly. The decor is too fancy, too expensive despite it only being hallways. The sound of footsteps is right around the corner and you hold your breath, not knowing who it could be.

Unfortunately, it happened to be one of your in-laws. 

“Oh! And here I thought you already broke,” a cute redhead girl snickers, her green eyes gleaming with mirth. Despite her stature, shorter than you and petite build, Charlotte's pale skin seems flushed.  

A quick glance at her overall appearance shows leaves in her fluffy hair and specks of blood on the hem of her light green dress that ends a bit below her knees. She didn’t show up much in the manhwa and you don’t know what became of her in the novel - you have to tread carefully. 

You give her a small smile. “Oh, Lady Charlotte. I haven’t seen you since the wedding. I hope you have been doing well.” You don’t stutter but your voice wavers. Her head tilts before she smirks.

It resembles Lant’s. 

“You’re funny - shouldn’t you be worrying about yourself? It’s only a matter of time until either Dion or Father decides to dispose of you.” Her pearly whites put you on edge when you notice how sharp her canines are. She keeps going as she crosses her arms with a cocky smile.

“But, whenever that happens, maybe I’ll take you in as a toy - as long as you behave, I’ll take good care of you. I’m one of the less violent ones when it comes to obedient toys.” 

You give her a flat look that goes over her head. 

Yeah right kid…

Unease eats you from the inside out regardless of your inner thoughts. Why is everyone so aggressive? So coy or sadistic? They’re hunters on the prowl, excitement added to their lives as new prey arrives.

If Dion doesn’t sink his teeth into you, they will. 

“O-oh…” How am I supposed to respond to that!? Even with your confusion and fear, you still manage a reply. “I’m sure that you’re keen on keeping them… operational.” 

The girl raises a brow. “You don’t seem surprised… Wait, do you even know what ‘toys’ are?” She questions as her feet spread a bit further, frustration painting her facial features. Now, why is she getting mad…?

No, rather why is she surprised? You’ve been here long enough to know what they are, unless, of course, she was too dense to consider that possibility. It seems that despite her personality, a child is still a child.

“O-oh, mother-in-law explained the basics to me,” a half lie is told through your teeth. While it’s true Maria had given you the barebone definition - against your will -, you already knew what they were from your previous life. From the manhwa. 

She grinds her teeth and stomps her foot. “That’s not fair! I was supposed to be the one who introduced them to you! Not that old hag!” 

Oh, she wanted to scare me.

“Oh…” While she’s fuming, you toy with your fingers, unsure how to proceed further. For one, trying to walk past her might anger her more. But staying here quiet might elicit the same response. You were stuck. 

She mumbles angrily to herself, voice too low for you to make anything out. You stand there awkwardly, waiting for her temper tantrum to end. She whips her head to look at you again, making you recoil back from the sudden movement. Her glare is sharp and she takes a step towards you only to stop herself.

“Ugh!”

“...” You watch as she turns her back and stomps away without another word. She does look back once, her green eyes full of fury that burns. Seems that you narrowly avoided a missile. 

She turns around the corner back from which she came. You remain in place until her footsteps get further and further away. Once no noise is heard, you can finally breathe again. Fixing your posture, you continue on your walk with no destination in mind.

- - -

He had heard news of a guest, but didn’t bring it up with the busy man, instead offering something else. Still, it was odd that the head of the (Last Name) family would keep a guest waiting.

“Father, why don’t we go for a walk?” Zac buzzes around your father like a busy bee, glancing down at the paperwork the older male was filling out. He barely makes out a certain name before the head of the family covers it with his arm, looking at the boy who resembles his wife.

 “The weather is nice and perfect for bug catching.” 

Your father shakes his head. “Not now, Zachary, I still have a few things left to sign.” Your younger brother frowns at the dark circles underneath the man’s eyes. Too deep and dark. The greying man halts his actions before softening his voice.

“Come back in two hours - we’ll take a walk.” He leaves no room for discussion. Taking it as a small victory, Zac bids him farewell, looking over his shoulder at the once joyous man with bright eyes. He has been reduced to nothing more than an overworked dog. 

It’s a pitiful sight. 

And yet, your brother still resents your father for giving you away to a brutal family, the head of which is worse than the devil himself. While he understands why he couldn’t say ‘no’, the fact he caved so easily makes him bitter.

The young boy just couldn’t wrap his head around it. One of  the reasons for your arranged marriage was a bit obvious after meeting Dion, but the full details are still unknown. And even then, the Agriche denied he was the one who suggested marrying into the family. But only a fool wouldn’t have noticed his stare and how conveniently he had a clear view of you at every gathering, every ball.

They called him paranoid. 

‘Hah! And in the end I was… right…’ he kicks the thought out the window.  

Try as he might, Your father kept quiet about the full details, distracting Zac with promises of outings and trips to the forest once he’s done. 

New lessons that are above his age-range so the boy would study more, harder, leaving no room for him to sate his curiosity, answers needed yet not given. However, your father didn't take into account just how cunning his son was when it came to avoiding the teachers and rushing through the lessons. 

He lingers in the hallway after the office door shuts. Across from your father’s office are three small portraits - your sister Elena when she was in her teens, his that was commissioned last year, and yours, taken a month before you turned eighteen.

A small reminder of the person you were before your marriage, bright eyed with a sweet and genuine smile.

‘Oh. So that's why he commissioned it.’

Zac stares at it for a bit longer before he walks away, head high high, a destination in mind. He needs to apologize for his father’s rudeness, after all.

It’s not a long walk, a rather short one to get to the area where they hold guests. A left turn and he’s there, the doors shut as two guards stand outside. He frowns at the challenge that stands between him and his goal.

He needs to talk to that person. He already knows who he is, as he was sent by a certain Agriche every now and then, the man awkward given the situation. He’s not sure why when the doctor isn’t directly involved with the house affairs of Black Agriche and (Last Name). Still, he’s a guest and should be treated as such.

 However, it doesn’t change the fact that one who sent him was the very man who watched you from afar. He should have told you and not them. Maybe then you wouldn’t be in that hellhole. 

Still, he’s slightly, barely better than the first candidate suggested by Lant. He kicks himself for thinking about his repulsive brother-in-law in any sort of decent light.

Small amounts of anxiety sparks throughout his body. They’re armed, stiff. Considering who it was, it would only make sense to keep him guarded. Or to keep him trapped, rather.

He scoffs, knowing that their visitor wasn’t adapted in combat. Nor was he a trouble maker, always quick to leave once everything was said and done.

He wonders what he came here for.

Still, it’s not like he can stop here. He strolls up to the two men with a boyish grin, calming his beating heart. With a whistle, he greets him as they bow, staying in place. Their swords are in their sheaths, ready to be drawn.

He knows they won’t hurt him, but the nervousness is still there.

“Wow. Now this is interesting - who’s the big shot?” Hands in his pockets, Zac’s eyes gleam with mischief, pretending he doesn’t know who’s on the other side. The guards don’t leave their post.

“Just a visitor, Young Master,” one answers with a glance to the other. They look nervous.

“I can see that,” Zac shrugs, amusement building as the man only makes it look more suspicious. Do they not know how to be subtle?

No. Rather, does he not know how to mind his own business? He imagines you right here, scolding him for involving himself in matters that he’s too young to understand, before you sigh and say how you worry about him.

 “But why are there two of you stationed here? Usually it’s one max, unless it’s something dire… not to mention father is still locked away in his office. Are they here for my mother?”

“It’s… complicated. He was promised an audience with the Master at some point, that’s all we know.”

“Then why say it’s complicated?” The man behind that door - he’s the only guest to ever have two guards stand outside the room. Do they think he’s an idiot? No, rather, why are they hiding his identity when the Heir of the (Last Name) family has already met him? 

Or maybe his father had decided to leave him out of it. For his own good or whatever else, he doesn’t know.

The other guard takes his shot. “Don’t mind him, Young Master - always wanting to make things mysterious.” An awkward chuckle that’s returned by the other two. Your brother stays.

However, the severnats and guards of this house have always been weak to him - no, to all of the children of (Last Name).

“Speaking of father… he’s been down in the dumps. He’s been cooped up in that stuffy room all day - how inappropriate would it be to rush him?” He tilts his head, (h/c) bangs falling over his eyes. “He needs a break and that guy,” he points at the heavy doors, “shouldn’t be kept waiting - two birds with one stone.”

He’s spewing out whatever. He just wants to see the man, although, it would also be a lie to say he didn’t want his father to take a break. But he uses the visitor against them as well.

After all,  that doctor must be so fatigued, traveling so far. “It’s rude to keep him waiting. That’s assuming he’s been here for a while, if not, then I apologize for my impudence.” 

The little shit bows as the guards share a look. An uneasy yet guilt ridden furrow of their brows shows he was correct in the visitor waiting for a tad too long. A pause before one responds, only to be interrupted by the youth. 

“Of course, it isn’t exactly my place to speak, but…,” his (e/c) eyes shine as he bitterly smiles, shrugging his shoulders. “I’m just worried about them. The guest since he’s been waiting, and my father is still mourning after he gave my sister away… I just want to show her that our father is still taking care of himself and his duties.”

He doesn’t even know what he’s yapping. He’s saying anything that comes to mind now, trial and error proving what’s working and what’s not.

“To be honest, it feels more like she passed away rather than getting married. I don’t want him to become depressed, and I certainly don’t want our guest to think he’s lousy because of his current actions." When he looks up, the guards look more guilty. 

It’s funny, seeing how none of this was their fault. He does feel some guilt, but not enough to shut up.

If you were here you would have dragged him away. 

“But, if father is too busy, then I wouldn’t mind giving our guest some company - if anything, maybe it’ll show just how much effort I am putting in as the Heir. A guest should never wait for so long.” 

The guards share one last look. “Well… just for a bit. We already checked his person and didn’t find anything suspicious or dangerous. And even then, we confiscated all of his belongings.” Now he feels worse, but also entertained - was it really a good idea to let a twelve-year-old in alone with an important guest?

The answer is no, but they let him in anyway. Then again, why wouldn’t they? He’s Zachary (Last Name), the same boy they watch grow up, who might be impish but is on his best behavior when the time comes for it and -

“Thank you for allowing me to keep him company.” 

There’s a chance one might leave and report this to your father. There’s also a chance they’ll keep quiet and warn him that his time is up when the appointment time is near.

The door closes behind him and he sees a certain redhead sitting on the lounge chair. He looks stiff, relaxing not in his dictionary. The sound of the creaking doors makes the guest jittery.

Once the guest turns his head, Zac greets him. 

“Hello, doctor.”

- - -

“Ack…” shivers crawl down your spine as you hold back a sneeze. The sharp sensation leaves as quickly as it came. 

How odd. 

The distraction is forgotten as you open a door that leads into an outdoor hallway. You stop in your tracks as you look ahead. A heavy metal door greets you at the other end, but on the wall on the right side are many. Full sets of armor serve as decoration.

Your heart flutters. This is the location where Dion confronted Roxana for the first time.

Roxana with her wet hair that only made her golden locks look more like gentle waves. Roxana, where her green skirt prettily went with her semi-sheer white shirt, the blue and gold necklace that, despite being simple, brings the outfit together. Roxana with her bandaged arm that would be drenched in blood as Dion roughly grabbed it and -

Oh. right. Dion.

The memory of the manhwa along with the undesired events that took place earlier increase your dislike of him. But… Why was he so different here than he was there? Maybe… It's because the main story hasn’t started yet. 

Or maybe you’re too tired to think of other possible explanations.

“... I wonder if that door leads into Cassis’ room…” you mumble to yourself, debating if you should just turn around. Truthfully speaking, you were zoned out the entire time, so you don't even know how you got here. Or how to get back. 

But do you want to go back? What if Dion’s still in the bedroom - then what? It’s his, so you can’t kick him out. And even if it was yours, you wouldn’t have the guts to do it then, either. 

“...” with a sharp breath, you start to walk forwards, slowly like an injured animal, wary of what’s up ahead. With each step comes bubbling anxiety, unaware of where it is that you’re going. Your mind won’t shut up.

Should I keep going?

What if it’s a room meant for toys?

Or worse, I run into someone willing to hurt me?

Maybe I should turn back. 

I’m scared. 

It feels like hours but it only took minutes, at most, to reach the doors. You grab it by the circular knob and prepare to open it. But your arm freezes.

Your entire body does. The sun is out but you feel cold. Your breathing picks up once you hear one of the doors to the side open, heavy footsteps accompanying the creak. Pure terror and fear starts to rot you from the inside out as you hear a familiar and disgusting voice - you only heard it once, during your wedding. But you never forgot it.

It’s impossible to.

You bite your lip, wishing that this man was already dead. But he’s not, dread crawling down your spine as seconds pass. It’s cold, the feeling that the fiend gives you.

Repressing a violent tremble, your ears bleed as that voice greets you, gruff and low, once annoyed but becomes amused at the sight of you. You may hate and fear your husband, but this man is worse. 

“Oh? If it isn’t Dion’s little wife - (Name), right?” Fontaine Agriche snickers out and you shut your eyes while mentally preparing yourself. Your hands shake and legs buck under your weight. Even so, you let go of the door knob to face and greet your in-law with a curtsy, eyes shaking with fear.

Of all the people to run into… Why him?

Your right thumb starts to sting, your bad habit never going away. You ignore it.

Alarm bells always go off with your husband. But sirens are screaming as you stand before Fontaine, trying your best not to let out the scream that’s bubbling in your throat. Your body feels heavy and resists you as you force your head up. Against your wishes, you take in his appearance by habit.

He’s not ugly but dull looking - however, when he eyes you like a piece of meat, you decide that he’s ugly after all. Even Dion doesn’t do that, and it’s an extremely low bar. Doesn’t change the fact that both men are perverted, but, ironically enough, you feel safer with Dion.

You almost scoff at yourself - Dion? Making you feel safe? Maybe pigs are flying in your old world.

This man has images of forced intimacy flashing in your mind. Screams that would be ignored if heard. Forget being locked in a cage - your gut tells you that a worst faith awaits you if you were to ever become too involved with Fontaine. You swallow down bile.

Sweat pools at the nape of your neck. A primal, raw fear and caution kicks at you, more vibrant, stronger than the one you feel with Dion. With him, it feels like imprisonment, but with Fontaine it feels like rape.

 You stop yourself from licking your dry lips, from acting too submissively. Your heart hammers against your ribcage painfully, a thud at the back of your head.

You bite your tongue hard enough to almost taste blood. You don’t want to talk to him, but what choice do you have? 

Don’t stutter, please, please please.

“Oh, I’m gla-glad that you remember my name, Young Master Fontaine.” You stutter once as your voice wavers and you’re cursing yourself mentally. Showing weakness in front of this man was a mistake - especially when he licks his lips, his eyes focused on your chest. 

You resist the urge to recoil in disgust. To be so… apparent with his sexual urges… does he have no shame? 

“How could I? After all, you’re a pretty little thing - it wouldn’t make sense for me to not remember your name.” Your eyes travel to the collar of his expensive shirt - specks of blood that stain it. The same goes for his sleeve and even on his cheek, right where his scar is. 

You look at the door where he came from. You put two and two together - he must be leaving a toy’s room. Your stomach twists painfully at the realization. 

The thought of you becoming his has your blood rushing. You look behind him - how far was the door on the other side?

It feels like something is tugging at your feet, making your movements sluggish. You push through the pressure that threatens to drown you. 

“I’m… flattered, but I’m not sure how my husband would react to that,” you gulp when his smile twitches into a scowl at the mention of his accursed brother. However, he quickly breaks into a grin with a quick glance around the area. He sees that you’re alone.

That fact makes panic rise deep inside your chest. Your gut is telling you to run.

“Come now, it’s not like I'm crossing any boundaries. I’m sure Dion would understand where I’m coming from.” He takes a step towards you, gauging how close he should get. You need to end this encounter, your gut screams.

Your legs twitch and you hold yourself back from walking past him. You also hold back from kicking him in the groin, the one area that would have him double over in pain. The thought is tempting when you can barely listen to rationality.

“That’s… interesting. How about we go ask him real quick? I just left our room not too long ago.” Your smile looks warm to the grey-eyed man, but the corners of your lips threaten to slip. It’s painful to keep the facade. 

Your brother-in-law takes another step towards you. His grin widens once he sees the hint of fear in your eyes. His confidence nearly makes you gag.

“You just left? And he didn’t accompany you?” He smells like blood, fresh and raw. A primal look of lust is in his eyes, and when his gaze sticks to the base of your neck, you feel like throwing up. He hums in thought.

Is he really… lusting after me, his sister-in-law!? Wait, considering he wanted Roxana in the manhwa, it’s… still disgusting.

Your voice catches in your throat, so he talks for you. “If it were me,” he starts as he backs you against the doors, “I wouldn’t have left you alone in this maze of a mansion.” One of his hands presses against the metal near your waist. Ever so slowly, it moves from the door and to your waist, teasing the fabric of your dress before he fully grabs you. You glance at it before looking back at his face, stomach churning and faith dwindling further. 

You need to get out of here. 

“O-oh… Lady Roxana!? I didn’t expect to see you here!” 

Fooled by your warm smile and excited voice, Fontaine looks behind him, only to see no-one. While he’s distracted by your lie, you quickly stomped on his foot using the heel of your shoe. Your reflexes have chosen both flight and fight. 

He howls in pain, bringing his foot up enough to hold it.

“Y-you bitch -”

“Sorry, I have to go!” 

Taking this opportunity, you run past him, faster than you ever have. It was like you weren’t even wearing heels, barely able to open the door as his hands grasp at your skirt, the man recovering from the surprise attack. You gasp when gets a hold, and since he was so focused on getting you, he was too cocky and pissed to notice your elbow flying to his throat.

“G-gah!” He gasps for air and in pain, saliva dribbling down his chin. You don’t look back as the door shuts behind you. 

CLACK, CLACK, CLACK

Your lungs scream for air, a sharp pain in your feet as your legs beg for rest. You don’t listen to them, running down the hallway like a mad woman. It’s a ghost town and that makes you fear for your safety even more - no eyes to watch him. No-one to report him to Dion, if they bother to.

But a small part of your mind suggests that maybe this could be a good thing. For one, you don’t know how Lant would react if he were to find out that you injured his first born once it gets reported to him. Not only that, but if it’s a low ranked servant or guard, no-one would fight against him, and even if they did stand up to him, he could and would easily kill them. 

He’s strong enough to do so.

He has the authority to get away with it.  

Then, another thought hits you - what if none of the siblings know about Dion’s obsession over you? That he would willingly punish them if they get too close - or, at least you assume so. Regardless, most would stay far away from you if they ever learn he favors you.

After all, who would try their luck with the most brutal Agriche? The favorite son, the most skilled in hand-to-hand combat and sword fighting - it would be a death wish. Only a fool would try to take what’s his.

Your lungs start to burn. Air is harder to take in, and you have to force your legs to keep going. You have to. Getting caught by your even more perverted brother-in-law is not an option.

You’re starting to regret leaving the bedroom.

“Hah, hah, oh fuck, it hurts,” you pant, your speed decreasing. You push through the smothering pain until you reach a dead end - two doors on each wall. You try the left, rattling the doorknob, only to find that it’s locked. You try the other and it opens, but in your panic, you open it too quickly, falling into the room, twisting your left ankle in the process.

“Where the hell is she!?” He’s not near you but he screams so loud it echoes off the walls.

At Fontaine’s yelling, you crawl into the room, wincing as it shuts close louder than it should.

You can’t hear him anymore. Your lungs work overtime to take in air, on fire despite resting. Drool hangs from your mouth directly as you hang your head. On your knees, you start to dry heave, slamming a hand over your mouth to prevent you from throwing up and to muffle any noise. 

Your left ankle starts to sting almost unbearably. It feels like needles are being stabbed into it, sharp and pointed. Slowly, your gaze travels to it as you move your dress away from the area. You can’t stop yourself from scoffing at your horrible luck, the swelling already forming. 

“Hah. I just sprained it…” ironic that you ran for your safety only to hurt yourself in the process. The pain distracts you from the events that just transpired, running away from Fontatine. Your fingers curl as fists form on the floor.

The tile is nice and cold. But it doesn’t help much with the forming tears and swollen ankle. You want to cry, a tight pressure in both your eyes and temples. A scream is on the verge of being released but you hold it back by biting your lip.

You taste blood and feel something warm leaking from your lip. The metallic flavor overrides the sour and bitter vomit that was stored in your gums and mouth. 

The tears fall easily. Too hot. Too wet. A sob rips itself out of your throat, chest trembling with the action. 

You freeze when you hear a woman’s voice. 

“Oh? What happened here?” A chair scrapes across the floor, soft steps that stop right next to you. Brown heeled boots enter your vision as your head is too heavy to lift. 

The skirt of her dress is a light green, ending right above her feet. She gets on her knees, her dress giving her a thin padding on the floor. One last shaky breath before you manage to lift your head, meeting soft red eyes - softer than Roxana’s, not as bright as your husband’s. Brown hair that ends at her upper back, straight and her bangs on either side that exposes most of her face.

Her eyes have a brown tint, curiosity in them rather than worry.

Grizelda Agriche.

= = =

So, how’s Zac guys? Everything will make sense. Eventually (I am crying). My pacing is horrible.