Once the two of them escaped the ballroom and snuck out of the town. Raven took Angel’s hand and raced into the dark parts of the forest. They ran as fast as they could. It wouldn’t take long before werewolves and vampires were sent to find them. Once she took Angel’s hand, he was sure to put a curse on her that blocked her scent. That way it would be harder for the werewolves to track her. In order to hide his special ability from her. He mixed in an invisibility curse that would make it so Raven couldn’t see the curse that he placed on her wrist. The two of them stopped for a moment as Raven began to catch her breath.

“Raven,” Angel crouched down to check on her. Once he did, he took notice of a dark figure hiding in the shadows of the trees. They were being followed, he wasn’t sure if it was Lycan or Blaire or anyone from their armies. It didn’t matter whatever it was, it was stalking them like prey. “We have to go now.” He threw off his shoes and socks. He quickly took her hand. He placed curses on his bare feet leaving curses wherever he stepped. He hoped this would be enough to slow whatever was following them down. “Faster,” Angel increased his pace, he could feel it, this dark figure. It wasn’t slowing down. It was there lurking in the trees following them.

“I can’t,” Raven began taking deep breaths. “Unlike you I need to breathe.” She brushed her hair back. “Besides, my feet hurt, do you have any idea how hard it is to run in heels?”

“You’re right,” Angel searched the shadows of the tree. The dark figure was gone, they were safe for now. But whatever it was, it wouldn’t take long for it to start tracking them. “Here, let me help you with those.” He took off her high heels carrying them for her. “Would you like me to carry you?”

“No, I’m fine,” Raven began fixing her hair. “I wouldn’t worry about anyone following us.” She took Angel’s hand, taking him deeper into the forest. “Look up there,” She pointed up in a tree. Angel noticed an owl nesting in the trees. “These types of owls make noise when nobody is around. They also do it when they sense danger. Right now, They’re quiet.” She explained.

“I don’t see how that helps us,” Angel added. “We are strangers to their forest and they are quiet right now.” He couldn’t hear a single noise from the owls. The entire forest was filled with a cold silence.

“You might be a stranger,” Raven crossed her arms. “My sister Claire and I, we take care of these owls. They don’t see us as a threat.” She leaned against a tree. “One day, I need to take you with me when we feed them. After you feed them enough, they won’t see you as a threat either. Come on,” She grabbed hold of his hand. “We are getting close.” Angel turned his head looking back at the owls as they left. Behind one of the trees stood a lone red fox, its eyes looking directly at them…

“I nearly walked right into that,” The fox transformed into the crimson haired woman from the ball. “Owls,” She looked up at the pesky birds. “Such a cheap trick, not to mention outdated.” She continued to follow the couple deeper into the forest...

“How did you and your sister find this place?” Angel continued walking next to her. “I didn’t think the forest went out this far. Granted,” He stepped in front of her moving some thorn bushes to the side. “Most of the forests belong to the werewolves.” Raven walked through the path he made for her. “We don’t get to explore them often.”

“Claire and I, we were still at the training camp.” Raven began. “You see, werewolves don’t join the war right away. Not like vampires do, we get put in a training camp for several months.” Her bare feet continued to crush the fall leaves.

Training camps, Angel knew all about those. Lord Alexander made a habit of attacking these camps. Angel was sent to destroy one of their camps. That was when he realized they kept their children there for safety. He was expected to kill a child, a werewolf child. He couldn’t bring himself to do it. It was the first time he ever failed to carry out an order. It scared him to know that the rest of his team wasn’t afraid of that task.

“Is something wrong?” Raven placed her hand on his shoulder.

“It’s nothing,” Angel put his hands in his pockets. “So you and your sister were in a training camp. How did you stumble across this place?” He walked next to her, taking hold of her hand. “I thought that werewolves weren’t allowed to leave training camps. At least not until they get assigned to a pack.” He wondered. “Not that I know much about werewolf customs. Lord Alexander doesn’t see the point of us learning your ways when our job is to-,” He cut his words. “I’m getting off topic,”

“I suppose that would make sense.” Raven agreed. “Why learn about your enemies' and their customs? When you’re only going to kill them all anyway.” She stopped at a cave. There was a large rock blocking the entrance. “We’re here, me and my sister’s secret hiding place.” She walked up to the large rock.

“We found this place by accident,” Raven explained. “This part of the forest.” She tried to move the rock but was struggling with it. “It doesn’t belong to the werewolves or the vampires,” She kept trying to push the rock. “I’m not sure who this forest belongs to but neither side travels out this far.” She let out a deep sigh.

“It won’t budge,” Raven put her hands on her hips. “It usually takes me and my sister to move this,” She stepped back. “I could transform but then.” She turned around noticing he was standing behind her. “No that would be a bad idea,” Wait, her dress, it had to be expensive. She didn’t want to ruin it. Unless, she was thinking about-. Angel forced a swallow, surely not, she wouldn’t get naked in front of him. “Close your eyes for a sec, just for a sec,” Raven assured him. “I just need to move this rock real quick. Whatever you do, no peeking.” She started to remove her dress.

“Actually,” Angel fixed the strap on her dress. “Why don’t you let me give it a try?” He offered. Besides, he didn’t want to miss this opportunity to impress the woman of his dreams. That would be foolish of him. “I wouldn’t want you to ruin your nice dress.” He gestured. Raven casually stepped aside. He approached the large rock. He wasn’t cut out for heavy lifting. This task was more of a Brandon or Ziek task. Still, if Lord Alexander’s training holds its promise. He should be fine.

“Hold this,” Angel handed her back her high heels and removed his suit jacket. He pressed his shoulder against one side of the rock and began pushing. “Damn,” He let out a grunt as he tried to move it with strength alone. “Damn, it’s heavier than I thought.” He couldn’t get it to budge so much for trying to impress her. Raven was over here laughing at him. Luckily, he didn’t need muscle, he had a better idea.

Angel placed his hand on the large rock placing a curse on it. This curse was the very small drawing of a feather barely noticeable at night. Though, a lot of his curses are since they are written in black. With this curse, the rock would become light as if it were just a mere feather. If strength fails you, then one must learn to rely on brains instead. He used one arm to push the large rock aside showing little to no effort. “Ladies first,” He stepped to the side letting her pass. Raven began clapping for him.

“Strong and fast,” Raven acknowledged. “I like it.” She went to walk by him. Angel took her hand and held it.

“Prince charming at your service.” Angel pressed his lips against the top part of her hand. Raven shook her head at him and walked inside. “Let me just move this back,” He scooted the large rock back in place. Angel removed the feather curse and placed a new curse on the rock just in case they were still being followed by the dark figure.

This particular curse was the drawing of an eye, it notified him when someone touched the rock. It allowed him to see that person and immediately identify them. This way if they were being followed, it gave Angel the edge. As a precaution, He blended the curse with another one. The invisibility curse. This would mask the curse from view making it difficult for their pursuer to notice the original curse. Once they touched that rock, he would know exactly who and what he was up against. Let’s see their pursuer try to outsmart this trick…

“That vampire,” The crimson haired woman arrived at the cave her targets had escaped to. She noticed the entire cave entrance was blocked. She went to touch the rock but her instincts told her not to. She lowered her hand and took off the glasses that concealed her eyes. Her red orange eyes spotted a marking on the rock. It was shaped like an eye, if it wasn’t for her special eyes she wouldn’t have been able to see such a marking. This marking is-, she pushed the button on her choker.

“My Lord,” She spoke into the mic. “It seems our love birds are smarter than I gave them credit for.” She stepped away from the rock. “One of them has access to curses. I’m not sure how this is possible. A power that great should not be in their hands.” She continued to examine the curse that was left on the large rock.

This vampire is a clever one. He put a curse within a curse which allowed him to hide his ability. He was a bit more reckless with those other curses but this one was more thought out. If she had touched that rock. He would have known everything about her. He would’ve known her strengths, her weaknesses, but most importantly. He would know what she is. Her cover would be compromised.

“It would be foolish to let someone with a gift like this live any longer.” She stated as fact. “Perhaps, If I were to go inside-,” Before she could get another word out. Her leader spoke over her, breaking her train of thought.

“No,” Her Leader interrupted. “We don’t know how proficient this person is with these curses. If there’s even the slightest chance, they could escape.” She stared at the cave entrance. “We’d be risking too much. We need to handle this matter delicately just like we always have. Our methods have never failed us before. I don’t see why they would fail us now.” He explained. “Report back, Karrin,” He ordered. “I have all the information I need.”

“As you wish,” Karrin closed her eyes. She transformed into a cunning red fox. She scurried off into the woods to rejoin the rest of her kind. The lovers thought they were safe, they thought they would be allowed to live. This is far from the truth. This was only the first stage. Now that they knew that these two had indeed broken the contract. Something far worse would be coming for them. The hunt had only just begun...

“We are going to need some candle light. It is really dark in-, Whoa,” Angel’s foot stepped Raven’s dress right as she moved. The instant pull caused him to trip. Raven turned to catch him but it was too late. His fall caused him to tackle her to the floor. Raven lit a match causing a faint light to emerge between them. His eyes lingered on her gorgeous navy blue eyes. Her eyes held so much beauty, it was so easy for him to get trapped in them. “Um, sorry about that, I tripped and-,” He got back on his feet and held his hand out to her. “I hope I didn’t ruin your dress.” She took his hand and he helped her up.

“No, it’s fine.” Raven dusted her off her dress. “I’m just going to go ahead and light this,” She reached into a dresser and took out a candle. “I mean, I wouldn’t want someone to trip and die.” She joked as she lit the candle. In an instant the large cave was filled with the sweet scent of Cinnamon. The faint light from the candle allowed Angel to take in his surroundings.

“We wouldn’t want-,” Angel’s words came to an abrupt halt. The second his eyes met with the steel frame full size mattress. The bed was made, the sheets were made of white silk, it didn’t take for lecherous thoughts to whisk around in his head. The two years of sexual tension between them was starting to take it’s toll on him. He was already envisioning himself on top of her. He could already hear her soft moans as they filled him with ecstasy. Each one would land right into his ear while the bed shook violently beneath them. The steel frame being bent by his hand while he thrusted into her.

“Something wrong?” Raven put out the match. He forced a nervous swallow as his eyes finally looked away from the bed.

“It’s nothing,” Angel took off his solid black tie. “It’s just a little hot in here that’s all.” Raven took the tie and his suit jacket he handed her earlier and hung them up in the armoire for him. His eyes began to wander the cave. The cave was built more like a room. The wooden dresser against the wall had ravens carved into the wood. Next to it was a wooden armoire with trees carved on it.

“Nice furniture,” Angel ran his index finger along the carvings on the dresser. “You carve these yourself?” She nodded. It’s nice to know that she hasn’t lost her creative touch. “I like it, it feels like a home. It’s a nice place to escape and just,” He laid down on the bed. “Get away from it all.”

“I do all the shopping for my pack members,” Raven placed her high heels on the floor. “While I’m out shopping, I try to decorate this place a little. I can’t do much seeing as it’s a cave but I try. I had to move this furniture by myself. It was not easy,” She sat down beside him. “I just wanted a place to, well, like you said, get away from it all.” She let out a deep sigh. “When I’m here there’s no Lycan, No war, It’s just me and sometimes my sister.”

“Sounds like paradise,” Angel laid his head on a pillow. “If I could get away from it just for a day. No Blaire, No war, just a day to myself. Hell, I’d kill for that. The only thing that could make it better is if,” He rose up. “You were by my side.” His eyes shifted over to her, Raven’s cheek flushed slightly. “Then,” He half smiled. “I’d never want to leave.”

“If only it were that simple,” Raven rose to her feet. “They would eventually find this place. We’d only be safe for a little while. When they find us, we’ll be dead and that will be the end of it.” She grabbed the box of matches and put it in her drawer. “This war of theirs, there’s no escaping it.” She let out a deep sigh. “No matter what we do or how hard we try, it will always find us. Which is why,” She closed her eyes. “I shouldn’t have brought you here.”

“Don’t say that,” Angel got back on his feet. He stood behind her running his hands down her shoulders. “I’m glad you brought me here.” He brushed her hair to the side and gently kissed the side of her neck. “The war, it does change things for us. I’m not denying that,” He wrapped his arms around her neck resting them on her chest. “Blaire won’t rest until werewolves are extinct. She hates your kind and she won’t listen to reason. The war will continue and there’s nothing we can do to stop it.”

“Well, we are at a cease fire for now but not for long,” Raven turned to face him. “They are waiting for the wedding. Once I marry Lycan everything goes back to normal. That’s what I heard at least,” She looked down sadly. “Lycan was talking about it with his friends at the ball. Do you think it’s true?” Her navy blue eyes looked up at him.

“It’s true,” Angel answered. “Blaire was telling me the same thing. The reason they are rushing this is because both sides are eager to fight each other. But,” He put his hands in his pockets. “It came to Lord Alexander’s attention that if he died during the war. No one would be able to take his place.” He explained. “In order for him to pass his throne over to his daughter, she had to be married first. So Lord Alexander offered a cease fire.”

“Lord Grimm must have agreed to it so he could prepare Lycan to take his throne in the event of his death.” Raven took a deep breath. “So this is really it,” She placed her on top of the wooden dresser. “Once the war starts up again the fighting won’t stop until a winner is decided. Is it really as bad as they say?” She took her necklace off and tucked it away in her drawer.

“I’ve never been on the battlefield but I’ve heard stories.” Angel answered. It was easy to tell that part of Raven was afraid. He didn’t blame her, once on the battlefield. It was kill or be killed. The fighting never ceased. “To be honest,” Angel let out a deep sigh. “If we were to meet on the battlefield and were forced to kill each other.” He walked over to the bed taking a seat. “I don’t think I could bring myself to do it.”

“You’ll have to do it,” Raven argued. “You can’t spare me besides,” She opened her dresser drawer. “I’m just one girl who happens to be a werewolf.” She took out a hair brush and ran it through her gorgeous black hair. “You can’t risk your life for a woman you’ve barely met.” She pointed out.

That’s where she’s mistaken. They didn’t just meet, Angel knew her even though she didn’t remember him. He remembered her. Now that he knew who she was, he couldn’t let anything happen to her. He still-.

“Promise me,” Raven set her hair brush to the side. “If we do meet on the battlefield.” She turned to face him. “You will do,” She started walking toward him. “What you have to do in order to save yourself.” She stared straight into his eyes as she said these words. This promise she wanted him to make, he couldn’t make it. He would never hurt her. Even if it meant that he would be saving himself in the process.

“What about you?” Angel asked. “If we were to meet on the battlefield.” Raven returned to brushing her hair. “Would you be able to kill me?” She stopped in mid brush and set her brush to the side. She stood there for the longest time giving him no answer. “You wouldn’t be able to kill me yet.” He walked up to her. “You would expect me to kill you.” He pointed out. “Answer me this,” His eyes narrowed. “Why would you throw your life away for a man you’ve barely met?”

“I don’t know,” Raven placed her hands on the dresser. “That doesn’t make sense why would I want to do that?” She shook her head. “This isn’t right, that thought shouldn’t have even crossed my mind. You’re just one guy, a guy I barely even-,” She cut her words when she looked into his eyes.

“It’s your eyes,” She walked up to him. “I don’t know how it’s possible but I feel like I’ve seen them before. When I look at them,” She stared deep into his eyes. “It’s like I’ve known you for years. That’s crazy,” She went back to the dresser and continued brushing her hair.

“It’s not crazy,” Angel shut his eyes. It can’t be crazy when it’s true. It was clear that she didn’t remember him. He’s no longer the human, she once knew. That human was buried deep inside himself. Right now, that human needed her. It was time he showed her the truth.

“You know,” He forced a laugh. “It’s still a bit hot in here,” Angel tugged at the collar of his white dress shirt. “I hope you don’t mind if I take off my shirt.” Raven turned and faced him. “I’m not a huge fan of dressing up and this shirt is really hot.”

“Go ahead,” Raven allowed. “You can take off whatever you’d like. I do have a brother so it’s not like I haven’t seen a shirtless man before.” She ran her brush through her hair. He slowly unbuttoned his silk dress shirt, revealing a solid white tank undershirt. Her eyes lingered on his protruding collarbone and his broad shoulders.

“Thanks,” Angel opened the armoire. He hung his shirt up on the rack. “That feels much better,” This wasn’t going to suffice. What he needed her to see was located underneath the undershirt. He half smiled as she continued to stare at his body. “I know my skin is pale, it’s a vampire thing don’t judge me. If you must know, my nipples are always hard because my body is naturally cold. So if you can see them through the shirt, that’s why.”

“No, I was just,” Raven turned around and resumed brushing her hair. “Nevermind, it’s weird because I could have sworn.” She paused. “No I’m sure that I have seen a man with a body like yours before but. It was less pale and well,” She turned to face him. “Could you ugh-,” She pointed at his shirt. “It’s just your body, it looks familiar. You see there was this guy, know what, forget about it.”

“Don’t worry,” Angel laughed. “I’m not the jealous type.” He assured her. “Tell me more about this guy,” The reason he wanted to know about him. This guy she was going to talk about is him. She did remember, she just didn’t recognize him as a vampire. “Was he hot?” Raven raised her brow. “I’m comfortable enough in my masculinity to ask these questions.”

“Well yeah,” Raven chuckled. “He was really hot. He shocked the shit out of me when he took his shirt off. When I first met him, he had no abs, just your regular shirtless male body. Sure he was still attractive, I mean, I saw him naked once.” She continued brushing her hair. “The boy had some nice features.” Nice features huh? His lips formed a slightly cocky smirk.

“We were best friends for a long time,” Raven continued. “I always sort of had a thing for him. The last time I saw him, I asked him to take his shirt off and when he did.” She shook her head. “The man had a six pack,” She stressed. “Just when I thought he couldn’t be more appealing. He goes out and gets a six pack. Like a nicely toned, melt your ice cream on it, six pack.”

“Melt your ice cream on it?” Angel laughed. That’s a line he’s never heard before. Though, he doubted he would have heard it. She had no idea it was him she was talking about. Still, it was nice to know those months he spent at the gym back then paid off. He didn’t choose to get stronger just for her. That was something he did for himself. She knew it wasn’t for her and maybe, that’s what made it more appealing to her.

“Well yeah,” Raven laughed. “I mean come on.” She shrugged. “What was I supposed to do with that?” She asked. “I already thought he was hot then he goes and does that. I was fully prepared to let him have my virginity. Just when we were about to-,” She let out a sigh. “It’s not important, I’m probably bumming you out by talking about another guy.” He wasn’t bummed at all. In fact, he was drowning in confidence. He had no idea she thought he was that good looking.

“This guy,” Angel couldn’t help it, a confident smirk formed on his lips. He was shocked that she still remembered so much about him. “I’d say he was rather foolish for letting you walk out of his room that day.” He gripped the end of his shirt. “He might have deserved that,” He began to lift his shirt up for her. “Slap on the ass you gave him for ditching you. He just had to go and help his little sister with her fraction homework.” His white tank undershirt began to peel from his skin. “Now that nipple pinch was uncalled for.” She laughed. “A man’s nipples aren’t for pinching.”

“Yeah,” Raven laughed again. “He really hated that.” Her laughter ceased. “Wait,” She stopped for a moment. “How did you know that I-,” His undershirt fell to the floor. Angel placed his hands against the wall letting her have a look at the angel wing tattoo that rested on his back. He knew once she saw that, she’d know it was him. He heard the sound of her hair brush fall onto the floor, her hand quickly covered her mouth.

“That drawing,” Raven raced over to get a better look. “I drew this for-,” She ran her fingers along the line work of the tattoo. “How?” She backed up. “He was a human, Not a vampire.” She explained. “It can’t be you, Issac?”

“It’s me, Erika,” Angel eyes peered back at her. “You drew this for me the last time we saw each other.” He closed his eyes. “I knew once you left. It would be a long time before we saw each other again. I told you to draw something that made you think of me.” He explained. “This was your answer.” He half smiled. “I asked why, and you said-,”

“It was the only thing you were missing.” Raven stood in disbelief. “Issac, it’s really you.” He turned to face her. The second he did, she ran into his arms. “I missed you so much. Leaving you was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.” She wrapped her arms around him. “I’m so sorry, I hurt you.”

“It hurt for a while, I can’t lie to you about that.” Angel confessed. “Despite that, I still had to let you go. It was your dream. I couldn’t let my feelings get in the way of that.” He brushed her hair back. “That kiss we shared before you left.” He ran his finger along her lip. “It kept me going even when I wanted to give up. You were the only thing that held me together.” He held her tighter. “You have no idea how much I’ve suffered or,” He caressed her cheek. “The amount of pain I had to face just for a chance to-,” Angel brought his lips close to hers. “Taste your lips one more time.” He ran his fingers through her hair. “I’ve missed you so much.” He crushed his lips against hers.

“What are you talking about?” Raven stared into his eyes. “What happened Issac?” She stepped out of his embrace. “How did you go from being a human to a vampire?” She kept searching his eyes for an answer but he wouldn’t look at her. He was afraid. He didn’t want to dive deep into the dark corners of his past. “Why are you calling yourself Angel?” The confusion in her eyes, she wanted to know. He wanted her to know but he was still so afraid.

“Issac, please,” Raven grabbed onto his shoulder. “I need to know what they did to you.” Her voice shifted to a calm tone. “Tell me, where’s your family, your sister. What happened to them?”

These memories, the more she asked. The more Angel had to face. These chapters of his life were too dark, too horrifying. He never wanted to speak of them. He never wanted to go back to being afraid of chains. He could still hear his loud cries for help. He wouldn’t go back to the isolation of-, He began to see a steel cage, the concrete floor covered in blood. Still, he had no choice, it was the only way she would understand.

“Issac,” Raven stood in front of him. “I know I left you behind once.” She wrapped her arms around him. “I won’t leave you again. So please,” She stared into his eyes. “Share your story with me.”

“I’ll tell you everything,” Angel ran her fingers through her hair. He walked over to the bed and sat down. He patted the spot next him. Raven nodded and took a seat beside him. He felt the comfort of hand take his. “It began with the small town, the town where we first met. You left, I stayed to look after my sister.” His dear sister, he aspired to be the best brother he could be. It’s a shame that he failed her. “The town used to belong to the humans. We were under their protection. However, as the war progressed, a new deal had to be made with the vampires.”

The flames, Angel could still see the roaring flames. The people of the town running as vampires hunted them down. Some were being taken to the castle, others were being killed. He tried to help them, his friends, his family. What could one human do against an army of blood thirsty vampires? Nothing, he could do nothing.

“Not even a day after the deal was made,” Angel began. “My hometown was reduced to nothing but a pile of ashes. Blaire sent her army to tear it to shreds. She sought to hunt down every human and kill them all. Some, like myself, weren’t so lucky.” He could remember the first time he laid eyes on the castle. The first time, he came face to face with his worst nightmare. Blaire, the woman who would steal everything away from him.

“My life as a human ended with a bite to the neck.” Angel placed his hand on the side of his neck. He remembered lying on the ground in agonizing pain. His heartbeat fading, fangs forming, his body growing cold. An insatiable thirst for blood. “Blaire told me, she gave me a gift that it would be a waste to kill such a handsome man. Not when she could have me as her personal pet. She told me to propose to her, to be her prince.” He forced a swallow. “I refused and for that I was punished.” The sound of a cage door slamming shut echoed loud into his ears.

The steel cage, no matter how much Angel wanted to forget. He could remember every detail. Those steel iron bars, the way the cold concrete floor felt against his bare feet. The smell of blood on the bars. The blood that stained the floor. That corner, the small corner, he retreated to when he was afraid. That cold breeze against his unclothed upper body as he stood there wearing nothing but his underwear. Blaire’s heels clacking as she walked around the outside of the cage. She was so proud of her cage.

“The moment I awoke,” Angel’s hand started to shake. “I was inside a cage, a cage that I would spend the rest of my immortal life inside. The only way she’d let me out is if I agreed to marry her.” He explained. “I tried to escape at first but nothing worked. I was being starved, my muscles were getting weaker. I was fighting just to move. As bad as that sounded,” He could still hear the screams. “What came next was far worse.”

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After laying there weak for days, the cage door opened. Blaire walked in and presented him with his first meal. His father’s hands were tied behind his back. He was unable to defend himself. He was trying desperately to reason with him. However, Angel was no longer in control, his body craved nourishment, without it, he would die. He fed on his father’s neck, bled him dry by the time he realized what he’d done. His father was dead.

This was only the first of many. After a while, his friends, people that he had once sworn to protect were nothing but faces. He would try to spare them but his thirst for blood was too strong. He even resorted to hurting himself as a way to spare them. At most, it gave them a couple minutes but the results always met the same end.

“It was after the death of my mother,” Angel lowered his head. “I began to think it was over. I had no friends, no family, I was completely alone. Everything I could possibly care about was gone, I killed them with my own hands.” He forced a swallow. “She found a new way to hurt me. A way to make me feel inferior.” His hands started to shake in fear.

“Don’t tell me she-,” Raven placed her hands over her mouth.

Angel could hear Blaire’s heels clacking as she entered the cage. He could still feel the tight chains holding him in place. It was then, he was shown what it meant to be powerless. Blaire’s hand reached into boxers and she started to touch him. She continued to tease his pride, fondle it, jerk it. He tried to break free of the chains but couldn’t. She refused to stop, he tried everything to ignore it. When it came time for his release, she fed it to him. He retaliated by spitting it back at her. It didn’t change how weak he felt after the fact. Chains, how he feared them.

“I was certain it was over,” Angel spoke. “She had done everything she could possibly do to break me. Even so, I refused to marry her.” He stared at the ring on his finger. “It wasn’t over, Blaire had saved the best punishment for last.”

His little sister, once she walked into the cage as Angel’s last meal. There was nothing left for him to do but surrender. Marriage in exchange for his sister’s life. If only Blaire had kept her end of the bargain. He watched as Blaire sunk her teeth into his sister’s neck turning her. A trick, his sister would live but as a vampire. He could not allow that. This life was not meant for a kind heart like hers. Angel sucked the venom out of her neck and left her to die as a human.

“I was free of the cage but the guilt.” Angel shut his eyes. “That was a different matter.” His eyes ventured down to his hands. He could remember the burns that ate away at this flesh. His hand was reduced to bone. The bright light of the sun beaming down on him burning him alive. A slow and painful death. What he deserved for killing all of those people. “I wanted to be set free, I couldn’t live with myself after everything that happened.”

“What made you change your mind?” Raven placed her hand on his lap.

“You did,” Angel glanced over at her. “Scythe, he was carrying your brother on his shoulder. When I saw him. It was like seeing a tiny glimmer of hope.” He knew if her brother was here then she would come looking for him. There was a chance that Angel would see her again. He couldn’t afford to die. He had to live for her sake. To be allowed to see her one more time, that alone was worth living for. “Scythe saved me that day, but only because I wanted him to. He said it was my choice to make.”

“I see well,” Raven smiled. “I’ll be sure to thank him for saving your life.” She rose to her feet. “I guess that leaves one question.” Her eyes met with his but only for a moment. “Why Angel?”

“Issac was a man who lived to protect his family. He aspired to the best brother he could possibly be. In that cage, he failed them.” Angel explained. “I couldn’t go on living pretending I didn’t fail them. Pretending that I was any of those things. If I was going to live, Issac had to die. In those flames, I laid him to rest. I became Angel instead.” He rose to his feet. “Angel only lived for one purpose. That purpose was to see you once more, it was all that kept me going.”

“Come here,” Raven urged him to move closer, once he got closer. She wrapped her arms around him, hugging him tightly. “I’m sorry you had to go through all that alone. I wasn’t there to help and because I wasn’t.” She laid her head on his chest. “I almost lost you, that won’t happen again. I’m here now and I’m not going anywhere.” She ran her fingers through his hair. “We’ll get through this together.” She assured him. “I’m not going to let this war come between us. It took a while for me to figure out. But, I know what I want and that’s you.” She pressed her lips against his. “I’ve missed you so much.” She held him close.

“I’ve missed you too,” Angel wrapped his arms around her. “I was starting to give up but I’m so glad I found you. You’re all that remains of my human life. I’m not going to let anyone hurt you.”

“Well ugh, in case you didn’t notice.” Raven traced a line on his bare chest. “I’m more than capable of protecting myself.” He was well aware of her strength. She was never the type of woman to let others fight her battles. She didn’t need to be protected. Even so, this fight wasn’t one she could win on her own.

“I know,” Angel kissed her hand. “I’ll still be here if you need me.” He pressed his forehead against hers. “It was nice seeing you again but I really should-,” Raven crushed her lips against his. His hand grabbed her waist as her reckless tongue explored his wet cavern.

“Don’t leave,” Raven raked her fingers through his hair. “Stay,” She jerked at his leather belt. He could hear the belt rattling as she tried to remove it. Her tongue proceed to fuck his cavern, flicking in and out. He leaned in eagerly accepting more. His hand caressed her neck as he glided his tongue over hers.

Angel could feel it, this cruel wanting to feel her. How he craved it, to have her beneath him, his hands touching every piece of her skin. Raven placed her hands on his bare chest and pushed him down onto the bed. She climbed on top of him, kissing again and again. Intoxicating him with her lust. He’s dreamed of this connection for so long but as much as he wanted it. He couldn’t have it, He clenched the bed frame as a way to combat these powerful urges. His grip, so tight the metal was now bent out of shape. He parted their lips and got out of bed.

“We can’t,” Angel fixed his belt. “If we have sex,” His eyes lingered on the bed. He could still see himself, touching her, kissing her, fucking her. There’s nothing he wanted more, he wanted her so bad, he could taste the sweet smell of her perfume. This war. No matter how bad he wanted her, it would not allow it. If he was to cross the line and have sex with her.

They would both die, they were already breaking the contract as is but to go this far. To betray Lord Alexander, his friends and everything they stood for. It was an unforgivable crime, the ultimate form of betrayal.

“We can’t,” Angel repeated after collecting his thoughts. “This is dangerous.” He stated as fact. “If we have sex, I run the risk of losing you. I can’t afford that, I have to protect you even if it’s from myself.” He was trying his best to deter his thoughts but his lust knew no restraint. He couldn’t stop envisioning himself on top of her.

“It’s about the war isn’t it?” Raven got out of bed. “I’m so sick of this,” She tightened her hand into a fist. “This war of theirs has taken so much from us. I’ve lost my brother and now, I’m losing you too.” She stared into his eyes. “When is it our turn? When are we allowed to stop making sacrifices for them?”

Angel knew the answer to that. Never, as long as this war between vampires and werewolves exists. They will continue to take things away from them and others. It was all about power and that’s all they cared about. Nothing could be done to stop it, their only choice was to accept it.

“You want this too,” Raven brought her lips close to his. “I know you do,” She caressed his cheek. Her lips getting closer, he could feel the heat of her breath dancing on his lips. He wanted this so badly. “Why are you letting them take something else away from you?” She raked her nails through his hair. “Haven’t you lost enough?”

“That doesn’t matter,” Angel closed his eyes. “The end result of this crime will kill us both.” He turned his head before she could kiss him. “I’m not afraid of death but,” He ran his fingers through her hair. “I do fear losing you.” He took hold of her hand. “I do want this Raven,” He kissed her hand softly. “But not if it means losing you.” He pressed his lips against hers. “I have lost so many people that I care about. Don’t make me have to go through losing another.” He went to the armoire to get his clothes.

“You’d really let Lycan have me?” Raven asked him. “You would let someone like him take me from you.” He stopped just before grabbing his clothes. “Honestly I can’t stand the idea of you being with Blaire. She doesn’t deserve you not after what she’s done.” She admitted. “I’m sure the two of you had sex and just the thought of it.” She growled. “I just want to rip out her throat and throw her clear across the room.” She shouted. “I hate her so much for what she’s done to you and I’m willing to bet.” She stepped forward. “The mere thought of Lycan taking me and-,”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Angel’s words were filled with anger. The last thing he wanted was to picture that spoiled Prince on top of her. The more he thought about it, the more his rage started to build. That bastard jammed a knife in Raven’s arm. Not just any knife, a silver edged knife, fatal to werewolves. He had the audacity to hurt Raven like that and claim her as his. No, Lycan had no right to her, treating her like some trophy. Angel couldn’t wait till the war started up again. He would seek out and kill Lycan personally for hurting his-. No, stop, she’s not his woman. He couldn’t think like that, no matter how much he wished she were.

“I’m leaving,” Angel grabbed his shirt and put it on. “It’s only a matter of time before-,” Once he turned around, his body was stricken with a whirlwind of arousal. His legs were weak, his mouth dry, he could barely contain himself. Raven’s elegant white dress was on the floor, she stood there in her white lace bra and panties. Her body, flawless, her skin perfection, No, he couldn’t, it’s too dangerous. He tried to turn away but couldn’t.

“It’s either you or Lycan,” Raven started to walk slowly toward him. “I made my choice once before.” He forced a swallow as his eyes ventured to her nice breasts. “I chose you, the way I see it. The only man that should be allowed to take my innocence is you.” He watched as her smooth legs came closer to him. “Lycan doesn’t deserve it and if you don’t take it now. He will and I don’t want it to be him.” She placed her hands on his unbuttoned shirt. “I don’t have feelings for him, not like I do for you.”

“Raven, I-,” Angel had no words to say. She pressed her lips against his and slid his shirt down past his shoulders. “I care for you so much,” His shirt fell to the floor. “I can’t-,” He threw his neck back as her warm lips teased him. “I don’t want to lose you.” This torturous ache that rapidly grew inside his pants, it was unbearable. He tried to resist the urges but his entire body was filled with the strong desire to feel her.

“You won’t,” Raven whispered in his ear. “I’m strong enough to take care of myself.” She removed her switchblade from its case. “You of all people should know that.” She cut the belt with the sharp edge of her knife. She grabbed the back of his neck forcing their lips together. His hands took firm hold of her taunting curves. He wanted this, to succumb to his lustful desires. His grip on her waist tightened. He let out a faint moan as her tongue dipped into his cavern exploring every inch as her tongue fought with his.

“R-Raven,” Angel let a soft moan escape his lips. His whole body quivered once her hand felt his jewels, rubbing them. Clothed but still, it didn’t stop his entire body from jumping into her hand. She had him by the balls and It felt so…good. “Unh,” His hips pushed into her hand demanding more attention. That hand felt so good. He gripped her curves tightly, as his hips rubbed his heft jewels over and over again. Her light grip squeezed his pride, jerking slowly. “Ah,” Angel’s back struck the wooden armour, his weak legs stumbled causing the weight of his body to break it. “Sor-,” He let out another moan as her hand tormented his aching lust.

“I miss this,” Raven whispered these words into his ears. “Your surrender, the sound of your moans.” He forced a hard swallow. “It’s just like it was when we were in your bedroom.” She climbed on top of him. “It was so hot watching you thrust,” He bit his lip trying so hard not to succumb to his deepest desires. There weren't enough words to describe how bad he wanted to feel himself inside of her. “It was like you were begging for it.” He’s begging for it now but still he had to-. He felt her cleft rubbing against his pride. He let out a loud moan. she felt so. Man, He’s missed this so much.

“That’s because I was,” Angel mustered. “You got me so turned on I could hardly,” He groaned lightly into her ear. “Oh, Raven,” He grabbed her hip, lifting her up a bit. He held her still with one hand as his other hand lowered his zipper and unbuttoned his pants. He let go of her hip. He could feel her rubbing herself against the soft fabric of black boxer briefs. He heard a sexy moan escape her lips as his aching pride was rubbed against her. He was so hard, he could see it poking out of his boxers. She’s just so hot, he crushed his lips against hers. His right hand gave her breast a light squeeze, teasing her.

“Oh, Angel,” Raven made his hand squeeze tighter on her breast. He hitched another moan as her body continued to chafe against his pride. The more she fed his lust, the more his hips pushed. Her warm hands ran down his neck to his bare chest, before he knew it. The elastic band of his boxers was in her grasp. He quickly caught her hand before she could remove them. The two of them stared deep into each other’s eyes.

This was it, The final deliberation. There was no denying that both of them wanted each other. Even so, was this cruel wanting enough to betray everyone? Was it worth the ridicule, the anger, and even worth dying for? Once they crossed this threshold, there was no going back. They would always be remembered as traitors to their kind. Angel’s willpower was gone, he could no longer deny her but he had to make sure. She was willing to accept the risks.

“This is what you want?” Angel ran his fingers through her hair. “If it is then,” He took her hand. “I will gladly throw myself into the flames but know this.” He stared into her eyes. “You will be throwing your life into these flames as well. I will try my best to protect you,” He caressed her cheek, bringing his lips close to her. “I’ll give my life if that’s what it takes.”

“If you’re willing to risk your life for me then,” Raven pressed her lips against his. “I should be allowed to risk my life for you.” Angel grabbed hold of her smooth legs as she wrapped them around his waist. In seconds, he fell into the soft sheets of the bed and slammed her onto it while he tasted her sweet lips. He pushed his clothed erection into her, rubbing his aching lust against her over and over again.

“Unh,” Raven laid her head on the soft pillow, while his hands moved slowly down her curves and up to her chest, lightly squeezing her breasts, cupping them. “Oh, Angel,” She moaned into his ear as he took off his boxers and threw them behind him on the floor. Her eyes lingered on his fully naked body with a slight smirk on her lips. She quickly grabbed him by his upper back forcing his body onto her. He moaned as he continued to rub his exposed cock against her white lace panties. She grabbed the back of his neck forcing their lips to connect. As they kissed, Angel reached behind her and unclipped her bra, she took her bra off, exposing her nice supple breasts to him.

Raven let out a faint howl as Angel’s bare hand squeezed her breast, his palm rubbing against her sensitive buds again and again. He kissed his way down her neck moving further down to her chest. He felt her whole body quake once he ran his slick tongue over her buds. He slowly licked at her right breast while he held it in the palm of his hand. Her legs wrapped around him forcing his naked body closer as he tasted her breasts. He gently kissed her right breast just before switching over to her left bud providing it with the same attention. She held him tightly while his cock continued to rub against her panties. Each time, he moved his hips, her moans grew louder, her grip got tighter, her legs still were coiled around him like a snake. He moved faster and faster until…-

“Fuck me, Angel.” Raven begged. He let out a grin of satisfaction. The tables have turned, before he was one begging. Now it was her turn to beg for him. “Unh,” she clawed his back as continued to tease her with his cock. He slid his hand down from her hard buds to her belly button to her taunting curves. Curious, Angel reached into her panties and stuck one finger inside her. This one finger had her at his mercy. “Oh, yes,” It amazed him, she was already this wet just from his teasing. He took his finger out of her, it was drenched in the sweet scent of her lust. A lust he was now eager to taste.

“You didn’t get to be my first,” Angel ran his fingers through her hair. “But you will be my first for this.” He pulled off her panties with one quick jerk and threw them behind him. He ran the tip of his nose down her stomach, his lips gently kissing their way down to her cleft. He had to be careful with his vampire venom, one bite could kill her but luckily this was something that didn’t require biting. He licked his lips and buried his head between her legs, his tongue ran along her edges the second it did. He felt Raven’s hand grab hold of his hair pulling at it.

“Oh, my-,” Raven’s words were breaking. He could hear her fighting just to breathe. He went to stop so she could catch her breath but she shoved his face back down. He grabbed her waist, licking at her lust with his skillful tongue. Each lick, he felt her getting wetter to the point she was begging him to fuck her. “Unh,” She grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled him off her. He tried to go back down before he could, she kissed him and rolled on top of him. Her tongue swirled around in his mouth as she placed her hands on his shoulders. She forced his back against the mattress.

Raven began to kiss the side of his tender neck. Her warm hands were going up and down his bare chest and over his hard nipples. He felt like he was getting a massage on his chest, it felt so good. He let out a soft moan once her warm lips kissed his skin, her smooth lips ran down his chiseled abs getting closer to his. He forced a heavy swallow as she got closer and closer to his cock. He wanted to stop her but damn it, he wanted those lips to taste him, to suck him dry.

Raven placed the tip of her finger over the tip of his cock. He bit his lip as her finger ran along his shaft slowly. Her gentle hands caressed his jewels and she lightly tugged at the skin. Angel forced a swallow. The entire warmth of hand encased his cock. She started to move the skin of his shaft up and down over and over again. Each time getting faster and faster, Angel tried to fight but his hips were eager to surrender to the pleasure. He was thrusting hard into her hand, damn near fucking it.

“F-Fuck,” Angel let out. The head of his cock started to drip with ecstasy. He laid his head back into the pillow, shutting his eyes. With each jerk, he let out more. He was trying so hard to contain it but her hand had enslaved him. “Oh, Raven,” It was then, right then, he felt her wet wicked tongue run along the slit of his pride. That one action almost made him lose control, he gripped the pillow under his head so tight. He thought he tore it, -This intense feeling,-

Angel’s bit back a powerful moan. He could feel her tongue licking and her mouth sucking his. Her head was moving up and down in fast motions. Her navy blue eyes were looking up at him. He couldn’t believe it, Raven was sucking his…

Angel couldn’t help it, he threw his hips into her fucking her throat. She accepted his every thrust. He gripped the long strands black hair holding it in a ponytail as she continued to taste him. Oh damn, her werewolf tongue, so strong, so powerful. So amazing. He let out moan after moan trying so hard to suppress them but damn it, he couldn’t. She was just that good, he had to stop her if he didn’t he was going to. Angel threw his head back, as her right hand jerked his cock, her left teased his jewels and her tongue was. He couldn’t take this anymore he had to fuck her now. He quickly rolled over top of her. He pinned her down by her wrists and crushed their lips together. He grabbed Raven’s hips and positioned himself in place. This was it, his cock was only inches away from claiming her. He was so eager to make the connection. His cock pulsing his hand as Raven laid there ready to accept him.

Angel was moments away from entering her but stopped himself. He slammed his hand down on the mattress and gripped it tightly. “Wait,” He forced out. “Hybrid, Raven, I don’t have any-,”If he got Raven pregnant, he’d never forgive himself. She wouldn’t survive giving birth to Hybrid. Even if it is a rare case, did he really want to risk it?

“It’s okay,” Raven stared into his eyes. “The chances of that happening are rare.” She pointed out. “Even so,” She half smiled. “I would gladly bear your child over Lycan’s.” She raked her fingers through his hair. “You’re the one I want, I’m willing to accept all the risks that come with that. So please,” She pressed her forehead against his. “Don’t let Lycan be my first, finish what we started two years ago.” She placed her hand in his.

“Okay,” Angel kissed her hand. He grabbed the back of her neck, kissing her. Once their lips met. He slowly pushed his pulsing pride into her, breaking her innocence. “Unah,” He husked. This wide array of warmth that now encased the tip of his pride. This alone was enough to beckon his hips. She felt so warm, his cold skin was even beginning to thaw, he was starting to sweat. It took all he had, not to push every bit of his cock inside her.

“Fuck me, Angel,” Raven hooked her arms underneath his and placed her hands on his upper back. He was pulled in by her strength as she gripped his shoulder blades. “I want to feel all of you.” He threw his hips forward. His pride now buried deep inside her, the deeper he got, the warmer he felt. The more his skin started to sweat, this feeling, it was so intense it was like her body was literally bringing life to his body. It was toxicating, he needed to feel more. He pushed his vigorous hips into her, shaking the bed with his strength.

“Oh, Raven,” Angel pushed his stern hips into her again and again. His pride was already drenched in her heat. She felt so incredible, there was nothing like it, she was just so fucking hot. Raven claws emerged as she tore at the sheets. Her legs coiled around him as he fed her his everlasting lust. His cock was pulsing out of control inside her and with each thrust. He felt nothing but pure ecstasy.

“Unn,” Raven let out moan after moan, each and every one landing right in his ear. She was begging for it, he threw his hips into her harder, sparing none of his strength. The metal frame was even starting to bend out of shape. He could feel her arousal drenching his pride cloaking it in an intense heat. “Oh, Angel,,” She ran her claws down his back.

“Ah,” Angel cringed as her claws tore at his back by accident. He ignored the pain and focused on his thrusting. While his hips vigorously pushed his pride deep into her, he removed her claws from his back. He pinned her down by her wrists so she wouldn’t be able to hurt him by accident again.

“Oh god,” Raven threw her head back into the pillow. Her skin was glowing as her lips cried out for more. Angel continued to feed her every bit of his euphoria moving his passionate hips faster and faster each time she cried out for him. “Oh, yes,” Raven was fighting to contain herself. Her whole body was crying out in sheer undeniable pleasure. He spared none of his supernatural speed as he threw his wild hips into her. His fast hard rhythm didn’t begin to stop until…

Angel felt it, he was getting close. His muscles were tightening, his cock was dripping with pleasure ready to burst at any minute. Not yet, he quickly slowed his pace down a bit. He released her wrists, now, focused on regaining control of his euphoria.

Not yet, Angel thrusted harder. He bit his lip trying to fight it. Not yet, Raven dug her claws into the sheets tearing at them. Not yet, just a little longer. He could feel her heat drenching him, getting wetter every time he threw his stern hips into her. He lightly squeezed her firm breasts, teasing the nubs with his tongue as he pushed his hard, pulsing cock into her.

“Oh, Angel, yes,” Raven cried out. He wiped sweat from his forehead as his muscles started to coil once more. He’s at his limit, just a bit longer. He fought with his release trying to force out more powerful thrusts. He maintained a steady rhythm pulling pleasurable moans from her lips.

“S-So Cl-Clo-Close,” Angel continued to fight with his release. He had almost won that was until. Raven’s navy blue eyes started to change color. “What’s happening?” He could see the full moon in her eyes. “Is she changing?” He prepared to withdraw his hips but before he could. He felt Raven’s warm hand grab his firm ass pushing his pride deep inside her. The collision caused him to lose control and-

“R-R-Raven, Nnah,” Angel cringed as he gave her every ounce of his euphoria. His cock continued to pulse as he filled her with his release. He thought this was it. But, it wasn’t. It was as if the time itself had been manipulated. Everything stopped and the next thing he knew he felt the strong wave of another release. -Two?!- He didn’t understand. That shouldn’t even be possible, how did she- He tried to stop it but then.

“A-Ang-gel,” Raven grabbed him tightly. The strong current of her release drenched his pride. Her back was caught in a powerful arch. It was then, he felt his pride getting soaked by her potent release. He held her tight as he hit his second release. His cock was caught in an aching pulse. He felt like he had been drained completely.

“R-R-Raven,” Angel collapsed on top of her. “H-how d-did y-you nah,” His entire body felt so heavy. His legs were completely numb. This thick fog, where did it-? The fog was endless, while he was in it, he felt nothing but pure bliss. He laid there waiting for the fog to clear. He tried to move but his body was so weak. He rolled trying to get off her but fell off the bed by accident. “Fuck,” He laid there on the ground his entire body numb. He didn’t know what bothered him more. The fact he fell or the fact he didn’t even feel it when he hit the floor.

“A-Angel,” Raven held her head. “Where’d you-,” She looked over the bed. “How’d you end up on the floor?” He grabbed the sheet trying to use it to help him back on his feet. “Here let me help-,” He grabbed her arm and pulled. “Angel, wait, hold on, I’m-,” He pulled her off the bed causing her to fall on top of him. “Dumbass, I said wait.” She punched his chest.

“Ou, I felt that.” Angel touched his chest. “That’s a good sign, do it again.” She rolled her eyes at him. “That was,” He forced himself to lean forward. “Intense,” He wasn’t sure where the time manipulation trick came from. It occurred soon after Raven’s eyes changed color. Whatever the case, Raven didn’t appear to be aware of it when it happened. He didn’t want to worry her with this matter either. So instead he chose to ignore it for her sake.

“Here,” Angel forced himself to stand up. His legs were still a bit shaken but he’d manage. “Let’s get you back on the bed.” He carried her in his arms, cradling her. He struggled a bit but he was able to make it to the bed. “Here we go,” Angel laid her on the bed. “It was nice seeing you but I should really-,” He tried to make it to his clothes. In the process, he banged his foot on the bent steel frame. He was still so weak, he used the steel frame as leverage to prevent himself from falling to the floor.

“You’re not going anywhere,” Raven wrapped up in the torn blanket. “You are too worn out, look at you. You can barely walk.” He’d be fine, this would subside. The moment he started making himself walk again. He’d recover. “So stubborn,” She went to leave the bed, her breath was heavy, and her legs were moving so slow. He was certain she’d fall if she tried to stand on her feet.

“No,” Angel held his hand out to stop her. “I’ll stay, just don’t leave the bed, please.” He wasn’t sure he’d be able to catch her if she fell.

“Good,” Raven returned to where she was laying. “I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to stop you.” She laid her head on the pillow. “Much less walk, I need a minute.” He was sure if two ejaculations hit him like this. Then two releases for her had to be much worse. “You should probably wait this out anyway.” She rubbed her head. “Man, I still feel a bit fuzzy, that trick you did was pretty badass.” She thinks he did it, whatever he’d take the complement and leave it as that. No need to worry her.

“Right, my trick,” Angel walked over to the bed. “You’re right, I should stay.” He climbed in bed with her. “It would give us time to discuss our next move.” Raven wrapped her arms around his side, laying her head on his chest. It was clear at this point that their options are limited. Neither of them were good.

His first original thought was to hide in this cave with her. Escape from the war and spend forever here with her. Raven was right, if they tried that plan. It wouldn’t be long before they were found. If found together, they would both be killed. The only other option and perhaps their best move was to...

“We have to go back,” Angel ran his hand up and down her shoulder. “I have to go back to Blaire and-,” Before he could get another word out. He felt a pillow strike him in the face. “Hey,” She struck him with the pillow again. “Why are you hitting me?” He tried to stop her but she kept hitting him with the pillow.

“Why?,” Raven yelled. “I think it’s pretty damn obvious why,” Her navy blue eyes were filled with anger. “You’d really go back to her.” She threw the pillow at him, he caught it with both arms. “After everything she’s done to you.” She tried to grab the pillow from him but he held it tight. “Why the hell would you want to go back to-,” She scoffed. “Sex,” She growled. “That’s it isn’t it?”

“What?” Angel felt her fist strike his upper arm.

“You bastard,” Raven took deep breaths. “You fucking bastard,” She repeated. “You prefer that bitch over me.” She tightened her hand into a fist. “I can’t believe you’d, know what, maybe you should go.” He kept rubbing his upper arm. She really is Ziek’s sister. She packs a mean punch just like him. “I said go,” She pointed at the exit. “Get the fuck out now.” Raven yelled at him.

“This is ridiculous,” Angel threw the pillow aside. “Sex,” He was still rubbing his upper arm. “You think this is about sex.” She’s impossible. How could she even think that Blaire is better than her? For her to accuse him of liking Blaire better. That was so far from the truth, it was unreal. Raven’s anger started to build even further. It’s obvious, she’s not thinking clearly. She had to be out of her mind to think that.

“You’re a guy,” Raven stressed. “It’s always about sex.” She flipped her hair back. “I can’t believe you’d treat me this way.” She grabbed the pillow. “I can’t stand you,” She struck him with the pillow. “You used me, “ She hit him again. “Made me think that you actually cared.” Raven’s eyes started to fill with tears. “When it was just about-,” He caught the pillow and pulled her into his arms making her stop.

“Listen to me,” Angel made her look into his eyes. “I’m not going back to Blaire because of the sex. That means nothing to me,” He held her close to his chest. “She means nothing to me,” He ran his finger through her hair. “You are everything to me,” He placed his hand on his chest. “I wasn’t using you.” He stared into her eyes, wiping the tears away. “What I told you is the truth. I know you believe that and if you don’t.” He pressed his forehead against hers. “Please,” He begged. “Tell me what I need to do to prove it.”

“I believe you, I do, it’s just-,” Raven rubbed her eyes. “Why are you going back to her?” She stared into his eyes. “She’s hurt you so much. In ways,” She set the pillow to the side. “I wouldn’t even dream of. I need to understand why. If it’s not sex, what other reason could there be?”

“Survival,” Angel answered. “I need to go back to her, tell some lies as to why I left the Lunar Ball. The longer I stay in the castle and play by their rules. The better chance we have at keeping what we did here a secret.” He ran his fingers through her hair. “I’d do anything to keep you safe. Even if,” He glanced down at the ring on his finger. “That means I’d have to marry Blaire.”

“I just hate her so much.” Raven took a deep breath. “I guess going back to her makes sense.” She brushed her hair aside. “Which means that I’d have to-,” She cringed. “Oh god, you’re killing me here.” She took another deep breath. “I would have to be okay with you and her having-,” She forced out the word. “Sex.”

“It pains me to say it but,” Angel let out a deep sigh. “Yes,” Raven growled. “I have to commit to my role as her fiance. If I don’t,” Surely she knew what the consequences were. He told her his story. She knows how dangerous Blaire is. “She’ll have me killed.” Raven’s claws emerged, he backed up, She stole the pillow from him and began to tear it with her claws. Her eyes were filled with so much anger. Cotton was over the floor, the pillow in shambles. She must have imagined that pillow as Blaire. She was so angry, It was starting to scare him. Once she was finished, she took a calm deep breath.

“Okay,” Raven put away her claws. “I’m good,” She breathed through her nose. “You can have sex with Blaire. I just want you to know,” She held up a finger. “If I ever,” She shook her head. “If I ever see that bitch’s face, I’m going to-,” She bit her lip. “Oh boy, you don’t even want to know what I’m going to do to her. That bitch is so dead.”

“Fair enough,” Angel raised his brow. He feared for Blaire’s life if she ever came across Raven. “So um, I guess this goes without saying but,” He bit his lip, he didn’t want to say it. Like him, her best option was to. “You have to go back to Lycan.”

“Oh shit,” Raven grabbed her head. “Lycan is going to beat the shit out of me.” She shook her head. “No, I can’t do it. I’ve been pissing him off since day one.” She explained. “We were supposed to get married last night.” She pointed out. “He is going to hurt me.”

“If you don’t go back,” Angel replied. “He’s going to kill you.” He added. “Hurt is better than being dead. At least if you’re hurt, I can still protect you. Besides,” Angel closed his eyes.”I might have something that will help you deal with Lycan.”

He’s never done this before. Lord Alexander didn’t want Angel to showcase his ability to others. Especially not to werewolves. He would be breaking one of the rules but, if he could help her. It was worth it.

“Give me your arm,” He held out his hand.

“Sure but,” Raven placed her arm in his hand. “What are you talking about?” She raised her brow. “Do you have some kind of silver bullet or something?” No, what he had in mind would only give her the edge she needed to fight Lycan. But first, he had to explain what he was doing by demonstration.

“Curses,” Angel shut his eyes. He removed the invisibility curse which he used to hide the curse he put her on her wrist earlier. Once it was gone, Raven could see a rose drawing on her wrist. “It’s my special gift, a rare one at that.” He explained. “Don’t worry, this curse won’t hurt you. It can only hide your scent.” He placed his hand over the curse. He shut his eyes and it disappeared.

“Curses huh?” Raven’s eyes remained on her wrist. “How do they work?” She asked. “Do you just conjure them at will or is there some kind of trick to it?” Something like that. It was going to be difficult to explain but he’d try.

“In order for a curse to be made,” Angel began. “It would require some negative thinking on my part. That’s where it gets difficult. Obviously hiding your scent so that you can’t be tracked by Werewolves is a good thing. So,” He cleared his throat. “I need to think of a different kind of scenario where hiding a scent is a bad thing.” He explained. “Imagine being a flower with the most beautiful scent in the entire world and yet. Not one person could smell it. It would be pretty sad to have that sort of curse cast on you wouldn’t it?”

“Well yeah,” Raven agreed. “It would be like stripping it of the one thing that made it special.” She looked over at him. “So basically, you’d have to think of it as a bad thing and not a good thing.” He nodded. “Like, let me give an example just to see if I got it.”

“Sure go for it,”

“Invisibility,” Raven brought as an example. Ironic, that was the very first curse he was able to make. “To some people it would be thought of as a gift. However,” She moved her hair to the side. “If you think of it like how sad it would be to be unnoticed by everyone. No matter how much you want someone or anyone to see you. They can’t.”

“Yes, if you think of it like that. It becomes a curse.” Angel replied.“There’s no limit to the amount of curses I can make.” Raven’s eyes started to drift in and out. She’s tired but she’s trying to fight it. “You’re tired.” He placed his hand on her cheek. “You should get some rest,” He went to give her a goodnight kiss but she stopped him.

“I’m fine,” Raven rubbed her eyes. “I don’t want to fall asleep. Let’s face it,” Her eyes drifted to the candle as the flame started to fade. “This is the only time we’re going to be able to see each other. Two years apart and this is all we get.” She glanced over at him. “We had to break the rules just to get this and look at us.” She faked a laugh. “We’re over here talking about surviving our punishment for when we get back.” She closed her eyes. “We can never be together, we couldn’t be together then and we can’t be together now. You know I’m right so let’s just cut our losses and say goodbye.”

“For the second time,” Angel’s heart couldn’t take that pain, not again. He wasn’t ready to say his goodbyes. There’s so much, he wanted to say to her. He just couldn’t find the words. He thought maybe if he saw her again as a more confident vampire. He might be able to tell her how he felt but even now. There was nothing he could say. “I’m so weak,” He curled the sheets up in his hand.

“Those curses of yours,” Raven traced a heart on his chest. “Are there any risks to using them?” She asked. “Like do they explode if you mess up or what? Everything has a downside right?” His ability had one of the worst downsides.

“They could kill me,” Angel answered. “If I make one mistake, even the slightest mishap. The curse would then send me straight to hell.” He explained. “Vampires automatically go to hell when they die. But still, I shouldn’t be rushing it like I do. Though,” He let out a deep sigh. “Lord Alexander wants me to test my limits. I can’t stop using them because I need my curses to protect my friends. So, even if the cost is great.” He ran fingers through her hair. “I’m prepared to pay for it.”

“I see,” Raven ran her finger down his chest. “Those curses will inevitably kill you then.” He nodded. “Well if that’s the case, I’d have to decline your offer to help me with Lycan.” He went to argue. “It’s not up for discussion Angel,” She glared at him. “I’m not going to let you use one of your curses on me.” He kept trying to argue but she cut his words. “No,” She repeated once again. He let out a defeated sigh. “I don’t want you putting your life at risk trying to help me. That won’t help either of us because then I’ll just worry about you.” She looked up at him. “Just let me deal with Lycan, okay?”

“Okay,” Angel agreed. She kissed his chest. “Just, Let me say this then,” He turned and pressed his lips against her shoulder. “I will continue to ignore Lycan’s behavior.” He ran his finger along her curves. “How long I continue to ignore his actions is entirely up to Lycan.” He explained. “Until then, I will leave Lycan in your capable hands.”

“Trust me,” Raven laid her head on his chest. “I’ll have it settled before it comes to that.” He watched as her eyes started to drift in and out again. “I’m trying to stay awake but I can’t.” She shouldn’t fight it. She needs her rest. “If I fall asleep, will you be here when I wake up?” He let out a sigh.

“Yes, I will stay.” Angel pressed his lips against hers. “Now get some rest.” She closed her eyes. She’s lucky, he kept a single dose of Sun Repellant IX in his pockets. Otherwise, he would have to leave.

The sad part is, as much as Angel talked about leaving. The truth is he didn’t want to leave her side. He couldn’t stand the idea of being without her. If only this war hadn’t divided the two of them then maybe they’d have a chance. Still, there had to be another way, some way for them to be together.

“I’ll think of something,” Angel slowly ran his fingers through the soft strands of her gorgeous hair. “I have to,” He gave her a gentle kiss on the top of head. He laid there in bed with his dearest Raven, holding her close to his chest while she slept.