Kyle had once thought the gay bar scene would never be his thing. It hadn’t been when he was in college. And it certainly hadn’t been once he’d made his contract with Ryka. Regular pubs were dangerous enough; he was already a walking beacon for the damned, and liquor was nothing if not sin fuel.

But as much as he was starting to detest most of his fellow mortals, sometimes he needed human contact. And this was one of those times. He’d been stuck in front of a slot machine for days, and giving drink orders to the waitstaff just wasn’t filling the need for socialization. He needed more.

Grabbing a drink and watching the drama unfold at a club on a Friday night was definitely more. No doubt someone would chat him up; he attracted attention wherever he went, and showing up in a gay bar dressed to - hopefully not - kill all but guaranteed he wouldn’t be wanting for company.

It was a dangerous game, letting other men flirt, and even risking returning coy smiles or racy remarks. But Ryka didn’t intervene, and somehow, these encounters became foreplay. All the demon’s jealousy turned to lust when they were alone again, Ryka eager to demonstrate why he was the only one Kyle needed.

Kyle imagined it would be more of the same tonight. Fine by him, as long as the other party didn’t expect too much. Then he supposed there wouldn’t be much he could or say or do to stop Ryka from making his presence known if the other party didn’t respect his boundaries.

I’m always here to help, stud. With anything - big or small. I’ll tell the fuckup eyeing you from the bar where to go, and gladly send him there. Or if you want this entire world on its knees, I can do that, too.

This was where Kyle’s confidence still failed him. Years ago, he had thought such promises were boasting, that there was no way Ryka was powerful enough to grant that kind of wish. He worried that now it was well within Ryka’s abilities to subjugate mortals en masse. But Kyle had never wanted that – he was happy it was just the two of them, and they could move around as they pleased. And he was more than a little scared to find out just how strong Ryka had become.

“Having you on your knees is more than enough for me,” he returned, shoving his way through the crowd and up to the bar. A man Kyle passed looked at him with arched eyebrows, but Kyle shook his head and pointed to his ear. Everyone wore their phones almost constantly now, which made talking to his other half much less conspicuous. The rest of the world appeared to be talking to themselves all the time, too.

You don’t even need to ask for that service, stud. So go on and have fun. When you get tired of being pawed at by these novices, head back to the hotel and let me remind you how you deserve to be treated.

Since he had Ryka’s say-so, Kyle decided he’d enjoy himself. “I certainly will. But now that you’ve said it’s okay, I’m going to have a little fun here first.”

And fun started with a drink, the strongest they could make him. He took a sip and tried not to choke – he was fairly certain he’d just been served a tall glass of fluorescent-blue paint stripper. But it didn’t need to taste good, it just needed to work. And the buzz came quickly.

From the bar, he studied the crowd, and was disappointed to see that most people seemed to have already paired up. The dance floor was full of couples, and even patrons around the bar were in pairs, heads leaning in close as they tried to chat over the blaring music. Not that there was no chance of him joining in, but it was easier to find someone alone to strike up a conversation. Watching a soap opera play out around him was one thing, being the cause of it was another.

Sighing, he finished his drink and wandered toward the club’s quieter back room. Here, he could still feel the pounding bass, but it was much easier to at least eavesdrop. But no one looked up when he walked in, though he did notice one man sitting by himself at the bar, his back to the entrance.

Kyle sat down near, but not immediately next to, the man, and ordered himself a beer. Already tipsy, he sipped it slowly, studying his prospect over the rim of his glass. He was quite handsome, with perfectly styled dirty blond hair and hazel eyes. And he was dressed to flatter his fit build. Apparently, Kyle was staring longer than he intended, because the other man looked up and smiled at him. Kyle quickly averted his gaze, but could feel himself blushing.

Are you actually interested in this asshole?

Physical attraction - lust - was one thing. It was a permissible sin. Real attraction was something else. And not something Kyle had suspected he’d feel for another mortal again. He wasn’t even sure that’s what he was feeling, so Kyle ignored Ryka, and met the other man’s eyes. “Uh, hi. I’m Kyle.”

“Remy. Nice to meet you.” Charmingly shy, Remy looked down at the wet rings his drink had left on the bar. Motioning at the empty seat between them, he asked “Do you mind if I-?”

“Please. And let me buy you a drink. Your beer’s almost gone.” Kyle called over the bartender and ordered them each another round. Remy slid onto the stool, his knee bumping into Kyle’s. Goosebumps rose on Kyle’s arms.

“Thanks. So, uh, are you here alone?”

Usually this was a tricky question; Kyle had a tendency to overthink it. But not this time. Without missing a beat, he answered, “I am. You?”

“Well, my coworker dragged me here to help me meet new people, but he’s been in the bathroom with someone he just met for the last half hour. So, I think I’m on my own now. And this really isn’t my thing.”

“Mine either, really. I just like the people-watching. It gets pretty good once everyone’s really drunk.”

Remy laughed. “I can’t wait. Are you from around here?”

Kyle shook his head, partly to clear it from Ryka’s ranting. The demon had been cursing him since he’d first started speaking to Remy. But it was rare that Kyle got to have a nice conversation with another mortal, and since Ryka only seemed jealous, he assumed that Remy had no ill intentions. “Just passing through,” Kyle finally responded. “You said your coworker brought you? What do you do for a living?”

“I’m a teacher. High school Physics, to be precise.”

“No kidding? I taught American history for a little while. Same age group.” The familiar pang in his gut when he brought up his past was less every time, though he thought maybe it was because now his stomach was too busy doing giddy somersaults. Remy was even more attractive up close.

“They’re either amazing or little terrors, right?” Remy smiled at him, and Kyle’s heart skipped a beat. No wonder his vision was going red.

Ryka finally interjected. I’m going to kill him.

Trying to stop himself from reacting, Kyle pointed at his ear. “So sorry, I just got a call. I’ll be right back.”

“Take your time.”

Once he was far enough that Remy wouldn’t be able to hear him, Kyle responded to Ryka’s threat. “Why? What’s his sin?” To that, Ryka didn’t have an answer. “You’re just jealous, so no, you don’t get to kill him. I’m just looking to flirt a little. So what’s the problem?”

It’s more than just physical attraction, came the reply, and Kyle immediately knew the demon was right.

“He’s nice. But that’s not what I came here for; not what I’d ever be looking for. And do I need to remind you about your confession?”

You just did, didn’t you?

“I didn’t mean-”

No, you did. And I’d much rather have some horny creep looking for a hookup bothering you than someone trying to make an actual emotional connection. But like I said earlier – have your fun. I won’t stop you, and I won’t hurt him unless he does something to really deserve it.

“Ry ….” But there was no reply. For a moment Kyle was overwhelmed with guilt – he really hadn’t meant to use some long-ago feeling against Ryka. It only lasted a moment, though, to be replaced by anger. He would have fun. It was nice to talk to someone they weren’t hunting. Someone who, in another life, would have been just Kyle’s type.

Shaking his head, Kyle headed back to his seat. Remy had ordered them both another round. “Thanks. And sorry about that. I turned it off, so no more calls.”

Remy smiled, and they dove right back into their previous conversation. It had been a long time since Kyle had truly enjoyed chatting with someone. They shared teaching horror stories – Kyle’s carefully edited – talked about places they’d traveled, or hoped to, and bitched about previous relationships. It had been ages since Kyle had opened up to someone like this, and he couldn’t remember it coming so easily.

“Do you not like that beer?” Remy interjected.

“What? Oh, no, it’s great,” Kyle laughed. “I just forgot to drink it.” He’d been so wrapped up in Remy, he’d forgotten about his drink. He took a few swigs, then made a bold suggestion. “Should we dance? Since we’re at a club and all.”

With a bashful smile, Remy nodded, and the two made their way back into the crowded main room. The music was deafening, and the dance floor packed, but Kyle found a spot near the edge of the chaos. He’d never been a great dancer, but most of what was going on around him could hardly be called that, anyhow.

He was nervous at first, and kept a safe distance from his new acquaintance. But Ryka kept his promise, even as Remy continued to close the gap between them. His heart thudded when he felt Remy’s hands on his hips, drawing him closer still. “Is this okay?”

“Fantastic,” Kyle answered, his world strobing red. But he didn’t care, and somehow learned to ignore it, especially when those same hands found their way into his back pockets. A stranger was groping his ass, and Kyle was the complete opposite of repelled. That same attraction compelled him to do his own exploration, palms eventually settling on Remy’s pecs. “You’re gorgeous.” The words were out of his mouth before he could stop them. And there was nothing to be done about the color flooding his cheeks.

“Me? What about you?” Remy rested his forehead against Kyle’s. Another point in Remy’s favor - he nearly matched Kyle in height.

Kyle wasn’t sure what possessed him – it certainly wasn’t Ryka in this case – but he reached up, tilted Remy’s head back, and kissed him. He hoped it was enough to distract from his rapidly stiffening cock. Though panic set in the instant his tongue was back in his mouth. “I’m so sorry. I’ll be right back.”

If Remy answered, Kyle didn’t hear him as he jogged to the nearest men’s room. Once inside, he shut himself in a stall and leaned back against the wall, covering his face with his hands. “What the fuck am I doing?” he muttered, hoping maybe this time Ryka would answer.

The demon didn’t, but Kyle heard the bathroom door swing open again. “Kyle? You in here?” It was Remy.

“Yeah.”

“Are you okay?”

“Embarrassed, I guess. I’m sorry I just-”

“I liked it. And I’d like it if you did that again, actually.” Incredulous, Kyle cracked open the stall door. Remy was standing on the other side, smiling. “May I come in?” Kyle nodded, and Remy squeezed into the stall with him, locking the door. “I noticed you were in the same boat as me,” Remy said, briefly glancing down. Kyle followed his gaze to see Remy’s erection straining against the front of his jeans.

“Oh.”

“Maybe we should do something about these.” That was all the invitation Kyle needed. He backed Remy up against the wall, pressing their lips together again. It was strange, and strangely freeing, not to worry about claws and sharp teeth. Between deep kisses, Kyle pulled off Remy’s shirt, running his hands over his chest and stomach before sliding them down to undo Remy’s jeans.

“That’s so much better,” Remy sighed, pulling himself out of his briefs. Without hesitation, Kyle took Remy in hand. Ryka must have given up fighting this, because Kyle could feel the heat of Remy’s skin against his palm. He closed his fist around Remy’s shaft, sliding his hand up and gently massaging the tip.

“Now how about you?” Kyle nodded his assent, and Remy shoved Kyle’s pants and underwear down past his knees. “Well, shit,” was all Remy could manage as he reached down and closed a fist around Kyle’s cock, letting Kyle roll his hips and fuck into it.

Kyle was more than happy with just that, but Remy had more to offer. He sank to his knees, taking Kyle in his mouth. And then Kyle had the experience of feeling not only his own immense pleasure, but also Ryka’s soaring blood pressure. But Remy was skilled enough to make it easy to ignore the demon’s anger and focus on his own emotions. Doing so made him realize he was all too quickly approaching orgasm. “Stand up,” Kyle pleaded, trying to haul Remy up the shoulders.

“If you insist.” Remy grudgingly complied, getting back to his feet and leaning his weight against Kyle.

“Thank you,” Kyle muttered, hungrily kissing Remy once more. Remy’s hands were working on finishing what his mouth had started, and Kyle was eagerly returning the favor. He was sure he heard people come and go from the restroom, but found he didn’t really care. Because Remy was sucking on his neck, and they were pleasuring each other, hips pressed close together.

Maybe it was his other half’s influence, but Kyle pushed Remy hard against the wall, practically growling under his breath. “You got us both?” he hissed, waiting for Remy to nod before moving his hands to Remy’s ass and pulling him even closer. They were thrusting together, Remy masturbating them both.

“My ear,” Remy pleaded, and Kyle obliged, sucking on Remy’s earlobe until he started to cry out. “Should … probably … toilet paper …” the other man managed between gasps.

Somehow, Kyle managed to find it just in time. “Oh, Kyle.” One more groan, and Remy climaxed, with Kyle following a moment later. Panting, Kyle took a step back, cleaning himself up before handing Remy a fresh wad of toilet paper.

“Thanks. And thanks for that.”

“No, thank you.”

“Well, you’re welcome then,” Remy replied with a laugh. He opened his mouth to say something else, but was interrupted by the restroom door slamming open.

“Hey, Remy, are you here? Remy?”

Remy shook his head and sighed. “All night I can’t find this asshole, and now …. Yes, Lou, I’m here. What’s up?”

“Our taxi’s on the way. You said you didn’t want to stay here long, right?”

Closing his eyes, Remy leaned his head against Kyle’s shoulder. “I had said that. Now I regret it,” he mumbled. Louder, so his friend could hear, he replied, “I’ll be out in a minute. Meet me up front.”

“Sure thing, Rem.”

The door closed, and Remy sighed again. “Damn.” Remy picked his head back up and resumed redressing himself. “Tonight’s been amazing. I’m sorry I have to go.”

“I had fun, too,” Kyle told him, leaning in to peck Remy’s cheek. Casual affection, and maybe the worst thing he’d done tonight.

“How long are you in town for?”

“I leave tomorrow,” Kyle lied. Though he supposed after this, Ryka would be wanting to leave as soon as possible.

“Shit.”

“I wish I could see you again.” This was the truth. What Kyle had just let happen he was sure he’d never want to repeat - no matter how good it felt - but Remy would have been a good friend.

“I should go before this gets any more depressing. Thanks again.” Remy kissed Kyle, deeply, once more, then let himself out of the stall. Kyle locked it shut behind him and sank to the floor, tears already falling.

Don’t cry.

“I am so, so sorry,” he sobbed.

Why don’t you ever cry like this after I make you cum? Unsurprisingly, that didn’t help. Just take a deep breath. Kyle did, and began bawling. Shit. You know, I’m not mad. Anymore.

“Thanks for clarifying.” Kyle rubbed at his eyes, wiping them dry. “But how are you not pissed at me?”

Like you said, I’ve had my … indiscretions. Besides, you thought of me when you came.

“If I’d opened my mouth, I would have said your name.”

And promptly been kicked in the nuts. So good job there.

Kyle laughed. “But I’m sorry, Ry. I just ….”

Wanted to be touched for real, I know. And now?

“It wasn’t the same.” Quietly, in case anyone was eavesdropping, he added, “You’re so much better.”

The chuckle that followed gave Kyle chills. You know, I wish there’d been a mirror so I could have seen that.

“So you’re not angry, you’re just horny?”

Very. I may be incubus enough to get a boost from sexual energy, too. Though your guilt is pretty satisfying.

“Oh, gee, thanks.” Kyle sniffled, feeling an oppressive wave of that very thing.

Save the tears for later. I’ll give you something to cry about. It should have sounded like a threat, but Kyle knew better.

“Ry….”

Begging probably won’t help. But it’ll be worth trying. So, why don’t we get the fuck out of here? I’ll give you just what you need, and you don’t have to worry about saying the wrong name.

“That sounds great.” After washing his hands and splashing some water on his face, Kyle made his way back to the dance floor. They were only about ten feet from the exit when Ryka stopped him dead in his tracks. Kyle worried that Remy was still in the building and Ryka was going to go back on his word, but his gaze locked on a young woman who had just entered the club.

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

If Kyle thought he looked like a deer in the headlights, that was nothing compared to the newest patron’s reaction. She gasped, her entire frame going rigid, held captive by the immense weight of Ryka’s glare.

And that laser focus revealed the truth of her nature to Kyle; wings – the white membrane folded against her back – and the barest nubs of white horns hiding in her mussed, bleach-blonde pixie cut. A tail, also purest white, hung below the line of her skirt, pressing tightly against her left leg. “A succubus?” he asked.

Yup.

Kyle’s legs were no longer under his control as he made his way in her direction. She was frozen to the spot, cowering against the closest wall and trying to stop her wings from fanning out and giving her away. “Why’s she so scared?”

She’s young. Very young. And very weak.

It was only another moment before they were standing in front of the succubus, and she quickly averted her gaze. “I’m so sorry,” she mumbled, staring at the dirty floor. “I didn’t know you were hunting here.”

Kyle knew what was coming, but still instinctively put his hand to his throat as Ryka’s deep voice rumbled out. “We’re not hunting. Besides, we’d be going after much different prey here.”

“Of course.” She sounded cowed, and couldn’t bring herself to look up and meet their gaze. Kyle felt bad – it had been a long time since they’d run into another demon, and this was the only time one had been abjectly terrified of him. Though he supposed Ryka was probably enjoying this.

You have no idea. To the other demon, he asked “What’s your name?”

“Demetria.”

“I’m Ryka. My host is Kyle. So, who are you after?”

Demetria’s confidence briefly resurfaced as she motioned at a downtrodden brunette at the bar. “Her girlfriend cheated.” Kyle winced, then did so again when he realized how obvious his reaction was. Demetria didn’t notice. “I’m giving her the opportunity to do the same. And help her find other ways to get revenge. Hopefully ending in violence.”

“I see.”

“They came here together often. She’s looking for someone to hook up with. I’ll tease her here, and in her dreams tonight.” Demetria paused, then finally looked up and met their gaze. “You know this trick?”

“Intimately,” Ryka answered.

“I see. I-I’ve heard your name before.”

Even Ryka seemed taken aback. “Have you?”

“Val was caring for me as an imp. He said you have Lord Satan’s favor.”

Ryka bristled at Val’s name, and growled at the mention of Lucifer. “I wouldn’t go that far. I’m here, after all.” Kyle knew that demons were vain, but he also knew that wasn’t what prompted Ryka’s next question. More likely, he was looking for an excuse for future retribution. “What else has he said?”

“Nothing bad,” Demetria answered quickly, obviously worried her caretaker’s words would get her punished in his place.

“Don’t lie.”

It seemed as though Demetria was willing to confess, but hesitated just a moment too long. And after everything that had already happened that night, Ryka couldn’t be bothered to wait for an answer. Already, his growl was becoming noticeable to those standing nearby.

Decades together meant Kyle knew that if he wanted to have a shirt to leave in, he needed to hurry. Regardless of the strange looks he was getting – and a few appreciative glances, as well – Kyle pulled off his top and shoved it quickly into his back pocket. And just in time.

Snarling, Ryka sped through a transformation, spreading his wings, and Demetria backed against the wall. Staring once more at the floor, she muttered, “But we’ll get caught.”

“No, we won’t.” In an instant, glances slid off them as though the two demons simply didn’t exist. Although they were given a wide berth, no one seemed to actually see them. Kyle was impressed, and also a little scared. But not nearly so much as the succubus, now that she was the subject of Ryka’s full attention. “Now tell me, what did Val say?”

It seemed to pain her to reply, but Kyle suspected she was worried her response might end up doing just that. “He said you’re foolish to think your host won’t be taken away from you.”

Somehow, Ryka’s seething silence was worse than the outburst Kyle had been expecting. “Look at me,” he hissed. It was Kyle’s understanding that immortals couldn’t influence each other the way they did mortals, but Ryka’s strength was enough to guarantee obedience.

“I’m sorry,” she whimpered, just barely making eye contact.

“I know you’re just the messenger, so I’ll give you one to send back. Tell him that if he has something to say, he can say it to me himself. Because I’d love to hear how that worked out for him last time. And I dare him, or anyone else, to take Master away from me. I can promise it won’t end well for them.” To add some weight to his threat, Ryka took two steps closer to Demetria, trapping her against the wall. She tried to shrink away, but there was nowhere to go. Hoping to avoid a show of force, she flattened her wings and bared her throat. Even over the blaring music, Kyle could hear her quiet pleas for mercy.

Go easy on her, Ry. She didn’t do anything.

It seemed like Ryka was going to obey, backing off at least one step. But then the door opened, and Remy made his untimely reappearance. Having been outside when Ryka started tweaking the club-goers’ free wills, he was unaffected, and upon entering the club, was instantly met with the sight of not one, but two demons. One of which rounded on him with blazing eyes and an enraged roar.

Oh shit.

“Don’t fucking move,” Ryka ordered Demetria, now turning his full wrath on Remy. Wide-eyed and pale, Remy staggered back toward the door, but lost his footing and ended up sprawled out on his backside. He tried to scramble back to his feet, but Ryka was looming over him before he even had the chance to get his hands under him.

From Ryka’s perspective, Kyle could see firelight reflected on Remy’s face, and briefly worried the fire suppression sprinklers would go off. Though Ryka surely had that under control, too.

“Why’d you come back?” Ryka snarled, reaching for the front of Remy’s shirt and hauling him back to his feet. Desperately, Remy tried to back away, but Ryka wasn’t letting go. “Oh, I know, you wanted Kyle?” Even as a passenger, Kyle thrilled to hear his name pass the demon’s lips.

Please, Ryka. Don’t hurt him. Take it out on me, but let him go. Kyle supposed his words were falling on deaf ears, but at least Ryka didn’t seem to be doing more than keeping Remy’s shirt collar clenched tightly in his fist.

Just as Demetria had been, Remy was trying to look anywhere but Ryka’s eyes. “I just-”

“You thought you had a chance,” Ryka sneered, using his free hand to turn Remy’s face to his. “Well, he forgot to tell you about me.”

Remy managed a strangled “Oh” and somehow went even whiter. But at least he didn’t seem to need it explained to him – his eyes widened again as the realization of what he’d done set in. “I’m sorry. So sorry.” His sincerity seemed to defuse Ryka’s temper, at least enough so that the demon released him. More than grateful, Remy backed toward the exit, turning to sprint the last few steps when it was clear he wasn’t going to be followed.

Thank you.

But Ryka was ignoring him in favor of the succubus still trying to disappear into the wall. She had been closely watching his interaction with the intruding mortal, and looked hopeful she’d be given a pass as well. “I’ll give him your message,” she whimpered, understanding that if she even mentioned Val’s name again, she was risking Ryka’s fury.

“I’ll find out if you don’t,” he warned. With one last snarl, he extinguished the fire that had been dancing on his wings and turned away from Demetria, stalking toward the club’s back door. Without really seeing him, the crowd parted to let him pass. At least they still had self-preservation, even with their senses lying to them, Kyle thought.

The back door was an emergency exit, but no alarm wailed as Ryka burst through it and into the empty lot behind the building. The second the door closed behind him, it sounded like normal activity resumed in the club. Kyle hadn’t noticed that although everyone had still been going on as though two demons weren’t having a standoff in the lobby, they had been doing it quietly – only the music had never dulled. Now, he could hear the usual roar of half-drunk club-goers trying to chat over house music.

In the moment it took Kyle to realize all this, Ryka had shaken out and readjusted his wings. “Can you do me a favor?”

Although Ryka seemed much calmer, there was still thunder behind his words, and Kyle could see the demon’s tail lashing in his periphery. Kyle knew he should have already said “Of course,” but was more than a little nervous. This evening had gotten way out of hand, and he suspected Ryka was one more inconvenience away from burning the building to the ground, likely with everyone trapped inside.

“Master ….” No, he didn’t sound at all calm.

Of course, dear. What is it?

“Well, stud, you’ve had a lot of fun tonight. Me, not so much.” The guilt was back in full force. Kyle had done just what Demetria’s victim had: cheated. And he wasn’t sure if it was better or worse that he’d been unable to hide the deed. Either way, it had been done.

Worse, he had been attracted to Remy, and not just physically. Ryka hadn’t seemed upset earlier - maybe even the opposite - but that was before running into a succubus bearing unwanted tidings from Hell.

What can I do to fix that? It would be actions, Kyle knew, not words that fixed his other half’s foul mood.

“Well, I’d like to get my dick sucked, too.”

Kyle supposed he should have anticipated this much. Fighting back envy, he asked, Is paid for acceptable?

“It doesn’t matter how. Just make it happen.”

I’m going to need my body back, then.

Without another word, Ryka gave up control. Kyle stumbled to his knees, but caught himself before he landed flat out on the pavement. He quickly shrugged his shirt back on, then walked around to the front of the club to hail a taxi.

***

It was simple enough to find not only an hourly hotel, but an hourly companion as well. Sex work had been decriminalized and regulated, and it was as easy as online shopping to find just what, or who, you were looking for.

Of course, there was no way to prepare the young man Kyle had hired for the fact that he was going to be sucking the cock of a very irritated demon. That was something he had to discover for himself when he arrived at the hotel room.

The deep, gravelly voice that answered from the other side of the door was not the same as the voice of the man he had spoken to when he’d called from the lobby to get the room number.

And when the door opened of its own accord to reveal a red-eyed, growling monster, the only thing that stopped the young man free fleeing back down the hall was a command from said monster. “Stay.”

“Get in here.” With a wooden gait, the escort marched into the room, freezing in place as the door slammed closed and locked behind him. It wasn’t fear alone that kept him immobilized. Ryka approached slowly, letting his wings drag behind him. “You are a cute little thing, hmm?” Kyle had been tasked with picking their company for the evening, and had chosen someone who looked as submissive as possible.

A quick search had pulled up Devon, a slight blond man barely out of his teens whose profile said he was very willing to perform the requested service. He was in possession of a set of big, blue eyes, but not a gag reflex.

“I’m going to let you go, kid, but no running away or screaming, got it?” Devon tried to nod, but only managed to slightly tilt his chin down. That was enough.

The force that had been holding Devon in place relaxed and he slumped forward, subject once more to gravity. “Are you my client?” he asked, voice shaking.

“I am. Name’s Ryka.” The monster was circling him now, and Devon felt very much like prey. He couldn’t meet the creature’s eyes, but he was fascinated by its wings, horns and lashing tail. “Do you know what I am?”

Devon nodded. “Am I going to Hell?” What he’d wanted to ask was if he was going to die tonight, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to know the answer.

Eyebrows raised, Ryka told him, “Only if you do well.”

The demon stopped in front of him, and somehow Devon only then noticed he was completely naked. He still couldn’t meet those burning eyes, but he was looking everywhere else. Monster or not, this client had a great body. He was hung, to boot, and already fully hard.

Ryka followed his gaze, palming his cock and thumbing away a bead of precum. “That’s because you’re so scared. I can hear your heart pounding. But you’re safe; I made a promise, and I can’t break it.” This had been part of the deal, before Kyle had bought Devon’s time and services – that Ryka wouldn’t kill him. Kyle only hoped that included accidental maulings as well. He wasn’t sure how good Ryka’s self-control would be, especially given how angry he’d been only an hour earlier.

And Devon didn’t know he could trust that promise. “Oh. Uh, um, so what do you want me to do?” Even though Ryka had told him not to be scared, that was impossible. But half his fee had already been paid up front, and he was determined to earn the rest, especially since he was being paid double. Now he knew why.

“Strip,” the demon ordered. “Slowly,” he added, when Devon started pulling his shirt off. Nervous but obedient, Devon did as he was directed, leaving his clothes in a pile at the foot of the bed after performing a brief strip tease. “Now come here.” Trembling, Devon stepped into the demon’s embrace. He was feverishly warm, a good half a foot taller than Devon, and much more muscular. Black wings encircled him, and it felt like the room was closing in. Never had Devon felt so fragile.

He wasn’t given much time to dwell on that, however, as Ryka put one clawed finger under his chin, tilted his head back and kissed him. And Devon felt himself melt. His fear was gone, replaced by lust.

Most clients weren’t looking for romantic gestures, just whatever service they’d paid for. And when they were looking for more traditional love-making, they generally weren’t very good at it. But Devon found himself locking his knees, trying not to lean against the monster as they kissed.

His eyes were closed, but he could feel Ryka’s grin. Surprising himself, he threw his arms around Ryka’s neck and pushed his hips close, rubbing his own now-erect cock against Ryka’s thigh. How was he not the one paying for this?

Ryka pulled away. “Your fear tasted good, but you’re delicious when you’re horny, too.” Kyle was sure his extreme jealousy was also quite delectable.

Devon had no idea what this meant, but his only concern was his pleasure. No, his client’s pleasure. “What should I do next?” he asked, sounding almost desperate. “I mean, you paid extra, so really anything you want.”

“Hmm.” Smirking, Ryka dragged a chair over for himself, but motioned back toward the bed. “Sit there.” Devon did. “Make yourself cum.” Without hesitation, Devon started jerking himself off. His eyes were open long enough to see the demon’s smug smile. It only took him a few minutes to finish, and when he opened his eyes again, it was to see Ryka leaning back in his seat, arms crossed over his chest. His cock was dripping, Devon noticed, licking his lips.

“Hungry for some dick, are you?” Devon nodded. “Come sit first.” Ryka patted his lap, and Devon practically ran over, straddling Ryka and trying to impale himself on that impressive cock. Long and thick, Devon really couldn’t have wished for more.

But his dreams were dashed. “I’m not fucking you, kid.” Ryka grabbed Devon’s waist and sat him down on his thighs. “Not part of the deal. Not unless you want to leave here in a body bag.”

Eyes wide, Devon bowed his head and muttered a quiet apology. He had no idea what had come over him – was he really throwing himself at a client this way? There was acting, playing along like he usually did, and then there was this - suddenly hoping for far more than he was being paid to do.

“Don’t think that means I won’t give you anything.”

“What do you mean?” Why did he sound so hopeful?

“Kiss me again and find out.” Devon eagerly obeyed, tangling his fingers in the monster’s hair and slipping tongue between his lips. He pulled himself forward, groaning at the sensation of his cock rubbing against Ryka’s. Having just been told in no uncertain terms that he wasn’t going to be fucked, he thought the hot hands on his ass, slowly spreading his cheeks, were nothing more than teasing.

At least until something nudged its way inside him. With an exhale somewhere between ecstatic sigh and panicked gasp, Devon flinched away. Or tried to.

In Ryka’s grasp, his attempt was worthless. “I thought you wanted something up your ass?”

“B-but ….” All his mind’s eye could see were claws, and his skin crawled thinking of the damage they could do.

“My tail,” Ryka explained, lips quirked in a grin. “Or should I not?” Even if he had been about to say “no,” the moment he opened his mouth, Ryka found his prostate. The only sound he was able to make was a porn-worthy moan. “I’ll keep going, then. Now touch me, too.”

Hoping to give as good as he was getting, Devon reached down and started stroking Ryka’s cock. He could swear the demon purred in response. And it was entertaining to hear its pitch and speed change as Ryka directed him to be more rough or gentle, to speed up or slow down his strokes.

“You’re making some cute noises, too,” Ryka rumbled, and Devon’s eyes went wide. Laughing, Ryka pulled his tail out, and Devon sighed, finishing untouched and splattering his cum on both their stomachs. “You are cute. And very obedient.” It sounded like a compliment, and Devon eagerly accepted the kiss that came with it. “So, can you cry for me? Or do I have to make you?”

“What?” Devon looked up, meeting Ryka’s eyes. His gaze had been kind a moment before, now it was cruel, slit pupils nearly lost in burning Hellfire. “Cry? But ….?”

“You heard me. Cry, beg, whatever. Because I think I want you scared after all.” Devon felt his stomach knot – he’d been lured in, weak prey that he was. He tried to stand, but Ryka grabbed him by the throat. “You said anything I wanted, right?” Oh, that had been a trap, Devon thought. And he’d walked right in. Knowing he couldn’t argue now, he made an attempt to nod.

Ryka’s hand was tightening around his neck, and although he could still breathe, it wasn’t easy. Gasping, he tried feebly to pull the demon’s arms away, but the only thing his effort got him was a vicious growl. “Please, not this,” Devon wheezed.

“But you said anything,” Ryka reminded him, malice in his eyes.

And now he regretted it. How had he gotten so caught up? Tears were starting to fall, but he was snarled at again when he tried to swipe them away. He choked out a few sobs. “Please,” he begged again.

The demon showed a mouthful of sharp teeth, then leaned forward and bit Devon’s shoulder. To stop himself from screaming, Devon gnawed his own lip. The bite didn’t hurt as much as he’d expected, but he felt skin break, and knew the spreading heat on his chest was blood running from the wound. He tried to pull away, but struggling was pointless. Ryka only needed one hand to keep Devon hostage. Devon felt the other between his legs, trying to tease life back into his limp cock. And it was working.

Moaning, he squirmed closer, and Ryka released his throat, instead placing his hand on the small of his back. Neck now exposed, Devon offered it up. This bite hurt, and he felt more tears spring to his eyes. “That’s it, kid,” Ryka hissed, lapping crimson from one wound before creating another next to it. Now the bites were harder, and Devon could smell the iron tang of blood. Tears were streaming down his cheeks and burning in the wounds on his neck. But somehow, he was hard again, and brazenly directing Ryka how to best touch him.

With a snort, Ryka removed his hand, and let Devon finish himself off. Bewildered, Devon looked up and was relieved to see that Ryka’s expression was one of amusement. “I’m sorry,” Devon said again, trying to find somewhere to wipe his hands.

“Don’t be.” Ryka grabbed his wrists and licked his hands clean. “But it’s my turn now. So I hope you’re still hungry for this.” Devon didn’t need further instruction - his hands were slicking up and down Ryka’s cock before the demon had finished speaking. “Good boy. Your profile said you like swallowing big cock. So?”

Nodding, Devon slid off Ryka’s lap to kneel before him. Hands cupping Ryka’s balls, Devon lowered his head and got to work. Groaning, Ryka let his head fall back. As advertised, Devon swallowed him whole. Repeatedly.

Purring once more, Ryka glanced down to admire the view. Dried blood covered the escort’s neck, chest and shoulders, and tear trails stained his cheeks. Devon felt his gaze, and peered up through pale blond lashes to meet it.

“Let me up,” Ryka ordered. He kicked the chair out from under him, and grabbed Devon’s head. “Hold still, kid.” A true professional, Devon let Ryka fuck his mouth without a complaint. In fact, he eagerly obeyed any and all directions the demon gave him. But he was starting to understand why he had really been paid double – the demon wasn’t quick to cum like most of his clients. Quite the opposite.

Throat raw and jaw aching, he fought off a grimace. But Ryka noticed. “I’m almost there. But I meant it when I said I hope you’re hungry. I’m a little pent up, so brace yourself.” For all his efforts, Devon was rewarded with far more than a mouthful of hot, nearly sweet cum. Tears in his eyes, he swallowed what he could, letting the rest dribble down his chin. “You’re not done yet. Open up.”

Exhausted, Devon did as he was told, glad that Ryka’s hands were back on his head, holding him in place so Ryka could simply use him. This time, Ryka came with a roar, and Devon flinched, nearly choking. Ryka gently pushed him away before taking a step back himself.

“Clean up and go.” Devon staggered to his feet and toward the bathroom. By the time he was done, Ryka was gone, and his account had been credited with not only the remainder of his payment, but a generous tip as well.

***

Kyle wished Ryka had stayed to clean up, too, but he supposed this was part of his punishment. A silent ride back to the casino covered in someone else’s bodily fluids. The casino staff recognized him, and offered him the private elevator to their penthouse when he trudged into the building. He gratefully accepted, then treated himself to a long shower and thorough scrubbing.

It had been a very long night, and after he felt sufficiently clean, Kyle flopped naked onto the bed.

Thanks, stud.

“You’re welcome. So, how was it? Have a thing for skinny blonds now?”

Ryka made a noise of disgust, and Kyle laughed. Well, he got the job done.

“I’d say. You came twice.”

Once. Had to stop myself halfway. Didn’t want the poor thing to drown. You told me not to kill him, so …

“Very kind of you.”

But he was a bit too willing.

“Oh?” Kyle had suspected the young man’s obedience wasn’t entirely natural, but also that he really hadn’t needed that much of a push to submit completely to Ryka.

I don’t mind being sassed a little. Or, you know, tied up and abused.

“You’re saying you need someone to remind you that you aren’t, in fact, Master of All Creation?”

Something like that, stud. Now that that’s all settled, how about we get what we really wanted?

“Oh, I’m allowed to touch his Highness after my indiscretion?” It was meant as a jest, but for a brief moment, Kyle truly worried he’d fucked things up beyond repair.

You’d have to do a lot worse than get a blow job. Holy water would probably have to be involved. And I’d say we’re even now, yes? Kyle only nodded at first. For all the guilt he’d felt earlier, the night hadn’t turned out too badly. They’d both gotten to have some fun, and no one had died for it. That’s right. So do it again sometime? As long as you don’t want more than a good fuck from them.

“Sure. And as long as you let them walk away in one piece.”

I can handle that.

“Then I think we have a deal. Add it to our contract.”

Ryka chuckled. Done. But you’re still going to have to beg for the privilege of touching me tonight. You need to be punished like the dirty sinner you are.

Kyle had been in trouble before, and knew what was in store for him. He’d be bound, blindfolded and gagged, the latter only until Ryka put something else in his mouth. Then he’d be used just as Devon was. No considerations would be made for his usual rules. He’d be forced to swallow, then Ryka would bend him over, fuck him, and fill him up. His heart was already racing. “I don’t think I should be looking forward to it this much when you put it that way, but I am.”

Then what the fuck are we waiting for?