Sorry for the long chapter and any grammatical errors.🤍
...

I gazed at my reflection, ready for the party, a mix of excitement and anxiety coursing through me. It had been a while since I'd been around a large crowd, and the idea of human interaction felt both exciting and nerve-wracking. I usually felt out of place in large spaces with numerous people, but today I craved that discomfort.

My own reflection stared back at me as I ran my hands through my hair. I felt oddly invigorated – whether it was the excitement, nerves, or perhaps the satisfaction of having done my hair, I couldn't tell. My eyes lingered on my chosen hairstyle – a mixture of braids and cornrows with curls known as "sweet and sour." I rarely experimented with cornrows due to my sensitive scalp, but I decided to give it a shot. Surprisingly, I liked the outcome, and I enjoyed how my hair's versatility managed to intrigue Lachlan in a charming manner. I found it adorable.

My hairdresser, provided by Lachlan, skillfully executed the intricate style. I couldn't help but admire Lachlan's meticulous grooming habits. His hair and beard were consistently well-kept, a testament to his fastidiousness. He may be a savage beast, but he was undoubtedly a handsome and impeccably clean one.

Shifting my focus, I appreciated how my dress complemented my curves perfectly. The neckline had a plunging design that managed to be sensual without being overly revealing- the grey colour of the body con dress made the brown pigment of my skin glow in a manner I couldn't believe. I thought of my best friend, knowing she would be thrilled with my choice, she was literally my biggest fan.

Anele would be proud of me just as I was; I haven't felt self-conscious in a long time more especially after meeting Lachlan. His adoration for my body in every form had contributed in a great way. Even my stretch marks became sexy, a testament to the way he cherished and embraced every part of me. Every fibre of my being was terrified of the Viking man but he had achieved something I didn't think was possible– silencing my insecurities.

Despite this newfound confidence, I still remained shy and apprehensive around him. My preference for loose clothing was something I would never part with, although they were  becoming harder to find. Since Lachlan revamped my wardrobe, sweatpants were a thing of the past, at least with T-shirts I used his because they were baggy but his sweatpants didn't even begin to fit me because of my smaller frame compared to his gigantic Viking genes.

My position in his life remained unclear, something I wasn't ready to confront. His gaze conveyed emotions that defied sanity, leaving me petrified. He looked at me as if I were his soul, yet there was a primal intense hunger mixed with possessiveness that sent my nerves into overdrive. It was unsettling and at the same time exhilarating – a mess of emotions that I couldn't begin to untangle. To be precise it petrified me. I didn't think any sane person would understand neither did I. My stomach fluttered, and goosebumps trailed over my skin. It was twisted, but it was my truth.

After one last glance in the mirror, I decided to leave. We were at one of Lachlan's properties, reminiscent of the one in Ireland. This one was grander, similar to a sprawling hotel. His sisters had asked to stay over instead of the rented hotel rooms, and I agreed, not wanting to be alone with Lachlan – the very reason for this trip. Later, I learned they only asked me because they knew Lachlan would have declined their request. I wasn't surprised he was very mean when he had the chance. I didn't mind; I welcomed their presence.

As I prepared to depart, I suspected most of the guests had already left. We were running late, and despite my enthusiasm, exhaustion weighed me down. Strangely, if I were anyone else, pregnancy might have been creeping on me, yet my only concern was the fact that Lachlan wasn't human, I barely slept.

As I walked down the stairs I wondered exactly how much staff did this place have. It wasn't really as busy but people were walking up and down. The white tiled floors were always shiny so was the furniture with shiny surfaces, not a single particle of dust in sight. The only people from the staff that I knew so far were Alexis and Pete. Alexis had helped me with how to control all of things around here and Pete had been so kind to me when I got here. Spotting Alexis, I greeted her with a gentle wave. She seemed to be in a rush, holding something in her hand, yet her warm smile radiated kindness and melted my heart, even as she carried on with her tasks.

I opened the white door leading to the kitchen with cold water in mind, it helped calm my nerves. Just the thought of seeing him again after this morning had me shaky and also the thought of being around people made my insides buzz.

I felt like I had stepped into one of those magazines with luxurious kitchens - the first time I saw Lachlan's Kitchen I was in a hurry but after he basically kidnapped me I could not help but be in awe, this one didn't disappoint either. Seamless built-in cabinetry matching the woodwork which provided the ample storage while preserving the aesthetic of the historic architecture. It was beautiful- smaller than the one at home but beautiful plus this was just one of the kitchens in this place because there were different wings.

I heard another set of footsteps, turning around as a maid and a male servant walked in, I turned back after smiling at them. I looked at the glass slanted on one side that I had pulled out of the glass cabinet, Lachlan's sisters advised me not to linger with the staff so I made sure to keep everything short with everyone else aside Alexis I couldn't help it she was naturally inviting and had shown me such a warm smile I had almost cried. My emotions were all over, a recent discovery I had made.

I filled my cup with some water from the fridge- convincing my self that the chilled water would lower the scorching temperature of my body and bring down my nerves.

I reached his office, my determination to leave evident in my steps. As I walked in, the expanse of his office seemed to slow down, and there he stood, surrounded by his brothers, each of them putting final touches on tasks. His tie hung loosely around his neck undone, a sign of the morning's trials. He was always busy. Never before had I seen so many commanding figures gathered in one place. Each time they gathered, it was as if I was encountering their overwhelming presence for the first time. They had a way of shrinking the room, making furniture look like toys in their grasp.

One of them was departing from the table, the rest settled in chairs or stood, while Lachlan positioned himself on the opposite side of the large table, his gaze fixed on the proceedings. Their robust laughter echoed through the room, simultaneously comforting and sending a shiver down my spine. The atmosphere was saturated with raw masculinity, the essence of testosterone practically tangible in the air. Even after hearing their laughter, they were still terrifying.

My eyes involuntarily fixated on him in his black suit, drawn to him despite the others' presence. He effortlessly stood out, a central figure among the room's occupants, a modern-day deity of the Vikings. His sins, though known, couldn't tarnish his appearance. Time seemed to stretch and suddenly I realized his intense gaze was fixated on mine. It was a gaze that held weight, intense and heavy, and it never failed to unsettle me. The darkness within his eyes hinted at an insatiable appetite, a hunger that couldn't be easily contained.

My heart's pace quickened instantly, and a swarm of butterflies took flight in my stomach. The sheer weight of his gaze made me feel small, like a mouse scrutinized by a predator. My entrance seemingly prompted by an unspoken cue, the room's occupants began to leave, as though they anticipated it. Except for the youngest one, who sported a mischievous glint in his eyes, a playful spark amidst the intensity.

"What ever you guys need to discuss you can do it in front of me. Wonder Woman is my friend she will tell me later anyways." The Viking God let out something in his mother tongue directed at Lucan, I lacked comprehension but his tone chilling, the brothers chuckled disappearing from our view. I was too stunned to speak just learning of what Lucan referred to me as.

"-Of course she is my friend. Why, are you jealous?" My mouth was sealed as I watched the young man slowly call out to the heavens for his timeline to be cut short.

"Get the fuck out." Lucan paused smiling at his brother before looking at me. He smiled before disappearing from my sight but not before letting me know we would have a word later on about some games. The was something terribly wrong with him, anyone could tell.

"Temptress." He said flooding my stomach with batter flies- warmth spreading through out my body. He single handedly possessed an uncanny ability to diminish the space around him, rendering furniture mere playthings within his hands. I gazed at him now in his arms looking up at him, captivated, the man exuded masculinity in every way possible.

"You never are content." I recognised the look in his eyes, trapping me between his hard body and the table. I felt like a child compared him, his towering presence resembled that of a Viking warrior. I was intimidated, anyone would intimidated.

I was lost, the sensation of his lips on mine sent a whirlwind of emotions, his scent wrapping around me like a haunting melody. As we parted, the lingering possessiveness of the kiss left me breathless.

"I don't see the importance of this party," he mused, his hands navigating my body with an unnerving ease, he knew every part. Once more, his lips claimed mine, sending shivers cascading down my spine. Lost in the intensity of the dominating kiss, I was abruptly pulled back to reality by my racing nerves. I nervously watched him, my stomach twisting with unease.

"Well, I-I just wanted to come and get you so we could leave," I stuttered, my heart racing as his overwhelming presence bore down on me. Scenes of just hours before dominating my mind, making me gulp nervously. I couldn't help but shiver. Lachlan introduced me to the authentic depths of pleasure, yet with each sexual encounter, my fear towards his manhood intensified -despite that my arousal for him was unmatched.

"Your body is trembling, yet I have barely done anything." His hands were strong and swift as he quickly placed me on the table -my trembling hands pressing against his hard chest as I fought to regain my composure. My arousal ignited a fiery sensation, leaving a searing trail beneath the fabric of my panties.

Of course, he approved of the effect he had on me. I couldn't help how my body was helpless around him. My core was burned in need just because he was in between my legs- actually close. I couldn't help it, my body trembled in his mere presence. I could feel his fingers in between my thighs slowly teasing me as he closely watched me making me hold my breath, utterly falling upon his touch.

"I - we will be late-I," I struggled out, my hold tightening on the table an attempt to steady myself feeling his long thick fingers inside of me, the sound of the slow pace of his fingers made me ashamed of how wet I was as I unconsciously spread my legs wider.

"I'-I'm still sore," I tried to reason pleasure lacing my tone, I moaned his name feeling his mouth take one of my nipples in his mouth. I could tell the dress was a nuisance to him and he would rip it off at any second now. My breathing picked up as his pace picked up bringing me to my climax, I shuddered biting my lip. I shouldn't be encouraging him. I was going to die.

"You will kill me—I will end up dying. You have to give me a break- you can't just-," I breathlessly rushed out feeling the bottom of my stomach tighten, goosebumps prickling my skin as my heart raced chaotically. I reached my climax, the sounds of my pleasure filling his office.

"There isn't a single inch of you that doesn't belong to me." He said, disregarding the panic in my eyes. Removing his fingers, half of my brain coming to it's senses. A mixture of pleasure and fear coursing through me. The intimacy between us only heightened my emotions, and with each touch, my unease grew deeper.

"Lachlan--" my voice wavering, grateful for the space to catch my breath but I didn't dare move knowing better, my voice a mere whisper as I watched him his suit jacket now removed as he rolled up his sleeves, the veins that adorned his arms now visible as his ravenous gaze made me antsy. How do I reason with that.

"I don't disagree; I'm simply asking for a break."I was still breathless, trying to reason with this man as I was almost half naked on his table with my legs wide open for him. It felt pointless.

"You'll have your break at the party." His voice was gruff and deep, his tone letting me know it was final.

"I-I don't even think I can feel anymore- "

"Let me put that theory to test." His voice was deep, raspy, his tone holding no sympathy whatsoever.

"Spread your legs for me, love," he commanded, I didn't hesitate- spreading them further apart, his words sending a spine-tingling shudder down my spine. The damp heat between my thighs igniting an irresistible ache within me, seeing as my body was only mine by name. I was scared.

As I witnessed him lower himself between my thighs, my trembling was sparked by the possessiveness in his dark eyes. Even as he positioned himself before me his gaze now on the core he has claimed as his, an undeniable aura of dominance and menace emanated from him, enveloping me in a captivating spell. I wasn't sure where my panties went, I struggled to keep in touch with reality as my core burned from the feeling of his tongue inside of me, still sore but the pleasure that washed over me was intense. I was still very sensitive.

Lachlan, a man of unwavering integrity when it came to his word, has always upheld his promises to me. He bestowed upon me novel realms of ecstasy, whether he was deep inside me or indulging fervently and dominantly in the warmth between my thighs. Tears of pleasure and fear brimmed in my eyes, an overwhelming dichotomy that left me gasping for breath, my stomach tightening as I climaxed, he didn't stop.

Amidst the overwhelming pleasure, I ensured my silence, allowing only occasional soft gasps to escape. I could be very petty when I felt like it. I feel like this was the only win I would have-try and have. I didn't think the task would be this hard, I bit my lip refusing to let up as another wave of pleasure washed over me my eyes burning in pleasure.

"Isla, we can play this game. Please, do humor me, love. " he challenged, a glint in his eyes that sent a shiver down my spine. Yet, I couldn't back down, not now. He always got his way. I aimed to provoke his anger.

"I will." I met his gaze, my determination unwavering. My body belonged to him but at least for now my mind was mine.

A smile twisted his lips, my heart pounding as a sudden sense of dread washed over me, the gravity of my decision crashing down. He returned to his position between my trembling legs, igniting an orgasm that surged through me, leaving me panting and clinging to the table for dear life- eyes shut. As I caught my breath, I felt him loom over me, his arousal brushing against my wet core- sparks enveloping my body. I trembled, realising what was to come as I looked up at him.

"Lachlan—" I was breathless, my dignity didn't matter, realisation of the challenge setting into my bones.

"Please-."

"I am sorry- pleas-"

"Lachlan, —please-. -I -" I begged, my mouth agape as I felt his intrusion, filling me in a way that I could never become accustomed to. Tears stung my eyes, moans escaping my lips as I wrestled with the intense blend of pleasure and discomfort. I heard his chuckle, a sound that only heightened my inner turmoil.

"Do not yield so quickly, love. The game has not even begun, and I revel in the anticipation." he intoned with a chilling calmness, a hint of sadistic pleasure glinting in his eyes, I knew I fucked up. His movements were deliberate as he controlled the rhythm of my breath, matching it with every calculated thrust. Trembling, tears flowing down my cheeks, mute , I held onto him, feeling a rush of pleasure intertwine with the growing pain.

"I'm so—sorry!" I gasped, my words disjointed as the sensations overwhelmed me. Unable to contain myself, I screamed with each thrust and orgasm, each more intense than the last. I couldn't speak the pain and pleasure clogging my throat. I scrapped at his back as he railed into me against his desk.

He didn't pause to let me come down from my orgasms he fucked me through them, I could feel every single inch of him inside of me and with each thrust it felt like he was hitting my g-spot, I could not stop crying. I would never get used to his size nor the pleasure. His inability to get tired scared me as I bit into his shoulder feeling the world turn upside down, my fingers unable to move.

I was convinced I had nothing left to give, my voice raw from the unrestrained moans and cries he had so effortlessly drawn from me. He was proving a point. He didn't need to anymore he knew I surrendered from the beginning but he wanted the point across. I shut my eyes trembling, feeling every inch of my body tremble as he relentlessly drilled into me.

I begged with my heart I couldn't get the words out. I could only let out moans and screams not coherent words. Burning stars filled my eyes as my entire body trembled a wave of pleasure more intense than the last washed over me. The only sounds in the room where of him railing into me and myself. He was going to break this table. I regretted opening my mouth.

I felt him release his ropes of seed inside of me as a groan left his throat even though I wanted nothing more than to run from him I couldn't help but find it as the sexiest thing I have ever heard, a complex surge of relief and exhaustion flooded my senses. He withdrew, leaving me sprawled on his desk, immobilized by the enormity of what we had just shared—a twisted journey into the depths of our own madness. The joy was short lived seeing him hard again for a moment I couldn't see anything as my body tried to conserve energy. I was high on pleasure.

"Hands on the table." He commanded. I needed to speak to him about getting medical help, this couldn't be normal.

"Lachlan." My voice was hoarse and low, standing on my feet that were jello knowing better, than to not jump at his command. This was all I could manage to say. My words fell of deaf ears I felt him enter me yet again. My insides gripped him as I left this earth coating his manhood with my juices. I was sure I would pass out.

...

I wasn't mad at him anymore, he was all I wanted. I felt the tears brim my eyes as I blinked focusing on the chandeliers for a second. I looked around close to the bar- my new favourite spot in here. My surrounding blurred for a second as I blinked the tears away. I looked at the glass shelves seeing a small refraction of myself. My braided hair was pulled up in a bun a few curls from the braids dangling here and there, diamonds adorned my neck and ears. I was in a light blue gown that complimented my short heels that looked like Cinderella's glass slippers- just looking at my heels made me feel a little better, I really liked them-although my eyes looked dull, I couldn't hide my disappointment and sadness. I wanted to get out of here.

I regretted going to the bathroom, a little too cliche for my liking. I don't think they had noticed that I was inside and they made it pretty clear how much I stuck out and was an outcast. I wouldn't be crying had I not been dosed up on this medication- I wasn't sure anymore, at least I didn't have anymore cramps.

I have never felt like such an outcast in my entire life. I felt very alone, I had resided to the bar to compose myself knowing Lachlan would be here at any second. I needed to calm down. I chuckled thinking how mad I was for missing yesterdays event because Lachlan was inhumane but now I kind of wished I didn't come. I looked around trying to distract myself.

It wasn't hard to see the giant Viking man from the crowd, Lachlan stood out easily. He exuded a devilish handsomeness, his aura demanding attention and dominating the room wherever he moved. The man was on a different spectrum I could even feel his stare across the room as I made sure not to meet his eyes I didn't want him to see that I wasn't okay. We arrived about an hour ago and I already wanted to leave, but I didn't want to offend the bride in anyway.

I had been mad at him when we arrived, he made sure I didn't leave his side. He tired and stretched me out just because of a little statement I had made - he made sure I took it back and I did screaming and moaning- I was still sore but more hurt that he had ripped my dress. I made sure the dress I picked for today hid all the marks he had left on me- there were too many to count.

Hours of soaking were the only thing that allowed me to stand on my feet. Lachlan had made it abundantly clear that he could claim me whenever he desired—I belonged to him. I had suppressed any anger that attempted to surface, knowing well that Lachlan was unlike anyone else; he might very well erase my anger with more scars. My mind effortlessly pushed aside those thoughts, staying solely fixated on the present hour.

During the time I spent at his side here, I observed that only specific individuals dared to converse with him. No one looked at me -if they did it was brief. The man was highly respected and everyone maintained a cautious distance, it made me question how much I truly knew about this man. I did catch a handful surprised faces seeing me with him, Lachlan's demeanor wasn't one that invited casual interaction. Although there was a slight softening in his gaze when he looked at me, the underlying darkness never wavered, leaving me on the edge.

The cold glares I received from a select few women, from a distance and certainly not in the Viking man's presence, caught me off guard. When he was around, they maintained an amicable facade, which was a relief considering I was nestled in his arms. I couldn't help but observe another intriguing aspect – not a single woman dared to encroach upon his personal space. Everyone seemed to grasp the boundaries, even after I departed from his side. Yet, despite this, the hunger in their eyes persisted. I wondered if they were aware of the depths of his psychopathic nature.

I had made efforts to persuade him to allow me to engage with his family, yet he remained resolute in his decision not to let me leave his side. He was adamant about keeping others away from me. The only reason I wasn't currently in his embrace was because I needed to use the bathroom. Immediately I had felt cold and without shield. He gave me five minutes- I had used ten to mingle before heading to the bathroom with the aid of his sister. It was going well until I went to the bathroom.

"What's troubling you, Mo Grà?" he inquired, his voice, deep and raspy, coated in his accent, pulled me from the corners of my mind.

"I need some fresh air. Your sisters, the bride and her friends are the only friendly faces I've encountered here. I just need a little break." I admitted, scanning my surroundings. Feeling exposed and vulnerable, I locked eyes with him. There was a deep darkness in his eyes that sent a shiver down my spine. I had to take a deep breath to regain my composure, fighting back the fear that threatened to overwhelm me.

"Please," I whispered. He didn't say anything but instead took my hand, leading us through the crowd and out to the car. He didn't press for more answers as he started driving. The moment we left the venue, I buried my emotions, though the overwhelm still there.

"Where are we headed, love?" he asked, effortlessly taking control of the steering wheel as we made a turn his other hand on my thigh, I have never seen anyone make driving look so swift and sexy. This man had his unique way of doing things, and a thought popped into my head, instantly altering my mood.

"Anywhere that has ice cream." I beamed, looking at him. It felt like I was seeing the most human side of him. The slight tenderness in his eyes giving me comfort. This somewhat made me a little calmer.

"Your relationship with ice cream is truly concerning." he said, making me raise an eyebrow.

"You're not judging me right now. I know you're not. Do I ever complain about how you choose to have fun?" I asked. His deep chuckle filled the car, providing a refreshing sound. I felt so much better, in the confines of this car under his shield.

"Aye."

"Well, comparing ice cream to bloodshed isn't exactly fair." I quipped. It turned out the ice cream store wasn't too far away. I watched as he parked the car; our attire but mostly Lachlan and the aura around him ensured we stood out, the man wasn't one who fit in with everyone around him. I knew better than to open my own door. Observing him walk around, I marveled at how he embodied the image of a Viking God.

Taking his hand, we entered the store, a cheerful bell ringing as we walked in. There weren't many customers inside, and though the atmosphere shifted slightly, I paid it no mind. My attention was consumed by the array of flavours displayed. Unable to contain my excitement, I beamed and practically dashed to the counter, my eyes scanning the list of flavours on the wall. So many options, so little time. I noticed the old woman behind the counter hesitated her eyes behind me before they moved to me -mustering a smile at me. Interestingly, she avoided making direct eye contact with Lachlan – a pattern I realized I hadn't seen broken, except by his siblings. No one ever looked him in the eye.

"Do you really have all these flavours?" I asked, my voice inadvertently squeaking with enthusiasm. Anele would go crazy. The woman beamed at me, confirming that they did indeed offer all those flavours. Her kind eyes stirred a whirlwind of emotions within me. I could sense Lachlan's gaze on me, and it only added to my restlessness. After such a terrible encounter I was on the edge.

"Oh, um, can I please have the Buttermil- Wait, no, what's the Buttered Baguette? Or maybe the Chocolate Coconut Chip? I can't decide! Lachlan, I might just faint – so many flavour's, so little time. " I babbled, turning to him, my face flushed with excitement. My emotions seemed heightened, likely due to the pills I had taken before the party.

As he pulled me closer, his scent seemed to have a calming effect, easing my frantic state. Thinking about how I was just crying a few minutes ago compared to how I felt now made me think I was crazy.

"You can try as many as you please."

"Really? You don't have to work?" I found myself oddly irritated by the word "work."

"No. We will remain here until you're satisfied." he assured me. Tears stung the corners of my eyes as I looked at him. This was the kindest thing he'd ever said to me, and in this moment, I felt like it was all I had ever wanted. For the first time in his presence, I didn't feel trapped. Amidst a day where I'd felt like an outsider, I finally sensed a feeling of belonging. I had felt like dirt not so long ago but he didn't even take a minute to think over my request.

Being at the place Anele loved the most in the world also triggered tears from me, even though she wasn't here we had so many memories in ice cream parlours.

"Why are you crying?" he asked gently, studying my face. His eyes darkened, holding a mixture of concern and confusion.

"Because I'm happy!" I exclaimed, it was the first time I saw slight confusion in his eyes as his brows depended.

"Each time your tears fall, blood will be spilled." he pronounced, his words carrying a somber weight. I watched him a mixture of feelings inside of me as a chill ran down my spine.

"Choose." he commanded. As if he didn't just make a grave proclamation, I decided I didn't want anything to change my mood right now as I gulped facing the counter.

"May I please start with a scoop of Buttered Pecan?" I softly requested from the older woman behind the counter. I was aware of Lachlan's eyes on me; I probably looked like a weirdo. The anticipation of my periods also loomed, threatening to bring on a migraine, but I pushed the thought aside.

"What would you like, Lachlan?" I asked, genuinely smiling at him. The thought of ice cream making things better.

"I don't share your sweet tooth, Mo Grà. Just watching you is enough for me." he said, carrying the ice cream for me and leading us to a booth. He handed me my ice cream after letting me sit.

I wasted no time, indulging in my ice cream as a glint danced in his dark hypnotising eyes.

"This is amazing. " I moaned, lost in the taste, feeling a deep connection between us- myself and the ice cream at the moment, feeling the deep stare of the Viking man.

"Had you told me you disliked ice cream when we first spoke, I would've instantly sensed something amiss. It's a red flag, Lachlan." I chuckled, focusing on my treat, feeling a calmness wash over me as if we were in our own world.

"Are you suggesting that you would gauge someone's character based on their ice cream preference?" His voice held amusement, his accent lacing words.

"Absolutely!"

"I should never let you out of my sight; your judgment is terrible." he responded. I beckoned a waiter and ordered water, realizing there was no bourbon available there was only ice cream and desert which I knew he wouldn't want. His eyes lightened at my actions.

"But it has worked before! Anele adores caramel ice cream, and show me one person who loves it and also happens to be a killer," I asked with sincerity, acknowledging the oddity of it. Initially, I had dismissed Anele's theory as silly, but she proved it right consistently plus as much as the conscious side of me that held common sense begged to differ I wanted to hold onto this. I wanted to hold onto her. I also liked scaring the man before even though I strongly doubted that he had the ability to feel that emotion.

"Lucan. It will get him killed someday—by me." he replied, an edge of frustration in his tone, as if recalling something.

"No! The the little crazy one?" I was taken aback by my theory's betrayal- gasping at the thought. His laughter was a satisfying melody; I paused to watch him. The man was enigmatic.

Seated across from me in this serene ice cream parlor, he stood out like a striking anomaly. Even in a seated position, he loomed over me. My gaze drifted over his striking, finely chiseled features—his well-kept hair and meticulously groomed beard. I found myself unusually captivated by the way his beard accentuated his appearance. He emanated the aura of a poised, potent, and formidable Viking deity. Even in the midst of this vibrant setting, he exuded an air of authority and menace that couldn't be ignored.

"I thought your theory was foolproof," he said, amusement in his eyes as I processed the information. While I knew it wasn't scientifically sound, I wanted to hold onto this side of me—my untainted belief, my tooth fairy if I would.

"I'll just embrace denial," I quipped, as if it were the ultimate comeback. His smirk greeted my words, and I gazed at him, lost inside his eyes soulless eyes.

"I have a sincere question: What do you love more than anything in the world?" My gaze locked onto him, searching for a deeper understanding.

"-Something that doesn't involve violence, torture, cruelty, or causing sadness," I added, my gaze fixed on him.

His smile was direct, his eyes locking with mine for a moment, holding me captive. "I take pleasure in manipulating your breath, whether with my tongue or being inside of you. Watching you crumble beneath my touch, your form surrendering to my control." he declared, causing me to unconsciously clench my thighs, his words and dark gaze making me cough, choking on my ice cream. I averted my gaze, feeling my body heat up.

"Alright," I managed, gulping, I couldn't ignore the intensity in his gaze, which stood in stark contrast to his outwardly calm demeanor.

"Are you alright, Mo Grá?" The smirk on his face sent warmth to my stomach.

"Yes, I'm fine. I just. I -."

"You seem flustered," he remarked, the smirk widening the amusement evident. Despite my flustered state, I found myself oddly drawn to this side of him.

"I'm fine. I just wanted us to know each other better." I stammered, feeling more flustered under his gaze.

"There is not much I don't know about you. For instance, I'm aware that creating alternate universes with your pen or spending time with your sister are your greatest joys." he stated. A shiver ran down my spine at how accurate he was with his choice of words was exactly how I felt and although I already suspected he knew about my sister, hearing him say it aloud was different.

"But I can never tire of hearing your voice, so do indulge me." he requested.

"Lachlan, I have a question," I changed the topic, my thoughts returning to the first time I realized he was not mentally stable.

"Why did you have me wear that chain initially, but not anymore?" I asked , glancing at the friendship bracelet on my wrist, my feelings washing over me momentarily.

"I intended to convey a message, and once it was received, the chain was unnecessary," he responded, a sinister glint in his eyes. I decided never to bring it up not liking the feeling at the bottom of my stomach.

"Do you ever wonder where we might be if our paths never crossed?" I mused, my gaze resting on my ice cream. I was really enjoying it.

"They eventually would, you were made for me." he replied, a seriousness in his words that left me on edge, they carried a deep promise.

"After this can we please go somewhere else before we go back home?" I asked watching the cone in my hand I had specifically asked for a cone because I loved cones as much as minutes go by they become mushy and the ice cream melts the cones, I still loved them they reminded me of mom, Serenity, Anele and Sam. They were a norm from my past and I loved them. I also loved eating it. I smiled when I heard his response. I felt the only person in his world.

"I really like your beard," I confessed, my gaze fixated on it. The well-kept beard added to his aura, making him appear even more formidable—a true Viking God. He raised a brow watching me as if he sensed something else was coming.

"Okay- I already know the answer to this but I will shoot my shot nonetheless. Would you be open to me plaiting it?" I asked a smile on my face, I have always wanted to but I was too scared to try, especially his hair.

"You've had enough ice cream."

"Okay -can we please go now." I smiled deciding I'd attempt it when he was asleep. I wasn't surprised at how full I had quickly become. The thought of somewhere else wasn't of interest anymore, I was full and that instantly meant I needed to nap-

"I'm done plus I won't sit here eating ice cream while you watch me." I added. Fatigue was slowly enveloping my body despite my sugar rush.

"Don't worry about me, love I'm enjoying myself more than you are." I could feel my face heat up. I watched him stand to his feet as I craned my neck before standing up myself. I was almost done with my ice cream but I was too eager to leave. I needed a nap.

"It's really a shame I wanted you to taste my favourite ice cream- well my recent favourite ice cream, it made it on the list." I said beaming at him as he towered over me.

"Or would you have preferred if it was vanilla and chocolate -the vanilla for -" I stared moving my eyebrows up and down as he watched me worry in his eyes probably because of the way I moved my eyes brows, Anele had told me in the past how much it freaked her out; the thought alone of weirding out this man me me laugh as I finished of the last portion.

"It's an innuendo! Oh my word am I that terrible at word play-" I squeaked as he gently drew me closer swallowing my words, his tongue gently caressing mine making me shudder.

"Are you now pleased?" He inquired, observing me as I pulled away. Feeling my entire body heating up, freezing for a second, the eyes of people heavy on me- making vigorously blush.

"That is nasty! Tasting food in someone's mouth Lachlan -ewww- you are such a freak." I reprimanded in a hushed tone my tone wavering. His laughter had a strange effect on me, making my heart dance, even as I felt bashful under the stares of others around us. Sensing my discomfort, he drew me in, shielding me from their eyes, and that gesture sent my heart aflutter. His massive frame enveloping my smaller one.

I cleaned my hands as we departed. As I settled into the car, feeling drowsy, he ensured my seatbelt was on. Emotions churned in the depths of my stomach.

"Lachlan."

"Mo Grà."

"Thank you." The drive back home was one I didn't remember, it wasn't long before I feel into slumber with a ghost of a smile on my face, a stranger emotion claiming territory over my heart.

...

Tell me what y'all think.