Reluctant Royal (AU,M/L,M/M TEEN) Pt 19 - 05/2/04 {WIP}

[oObubblesOo]

Hey you guys!!

First of all I would like to thank all of those who have read and left feedback on my little story...

:multi:((Lady_without_a_clue, Gigo, Starlight, roswellluver, Mango Maiden, Pegleg, Juli and dancepixie)):multi:

I'm glad that you all have liked what I've written so far...I'm also glad that I gained the responses that have fueled my muse to continue to write more. I've said this about a million-ba-jillion times...BUT IT'S TRUE...your feedback helps me and my muse write more.

To answer a few questions:

Starlight
** I forget did you say this before but what time period is this in??

I never really said what time period it was in because I don't really know how to address this subject. But I'll try. I didn't have a particular time period in mind per say...but my story is full of mythical creatures...so I guess I could say that it is era of castles and fantasy...definitely not present...somewhat ancient I suppose. ((Does this answer your question?))

Mango Maiden
**Crazy dream that Max had. He's not crazy is he? Or can he see the future?

I'm sorry to say...but I can't answer this question fully without giving something away...but I can tell you that Max isn't crazy.

dancepixie
**And didn't you say in your authors note last time that you had the next part written and were just editing it or something? huh huh huh?

Yes Nikki...oh impatient one...I did say that I had the next part written...which was 100% true...I was just waiting for you to get caught up so I could post the next part. Shame shame...you kept everyone from reading the next part. ((j/k)) I've been waiting awhile so that way I could not only perfect the last part but so I could see if there was anything missing from the storyline that I hadn't worked in yet. I also had to type it all up...I handwrite my stories in a notebook before transferring the info the computer. I think that my imagination leaks out of the pen and onto the paper easier than it does while sitting in front of a computer.

Anyhoo...I believe that I've babbled on long enough...so without any further ado...I give you Part XI!

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


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“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Max bellowed into the sleepy soundless night.

He sat up with such a start that the sudden movement caused his head to throb and his stomach to lurch. Little beads of sweat covered Max’s body as he struggled to remember what had terrified him so.

The world went black.

Screams of pain and fury pierced the air.

Things came crashing down around him.

Unbearable heat.

Searing pain.

Then everything turned red.

This hadn’t been the first time that Max had dreamt this particular dream. However, it never had been this vivid before.

“What does it mean!?!” Max angrily muttered to himself.

He hated waking up all shaken up, terrified to the bone without having the slightest idea of what it all meant. Wiping the sweat from his brow, Max stood up and walked towards the bluff. He needed to think of what had just happened; the last time he had this dream, he had forgotten all the details before he had a chance to write them down. Max was determined not to let this dream slip away quite so easily.

…the large bone furniture…

…the sound of laughter…

…those almond-shaped eyes…

…the booming laughter…

* Crash *

* Hiss *

The sea rumbles breaking Max’s concentration. That little wave was all it took to allow the intricate details of Max’s dreams to slip from his consciousness and into the sea. Frustrated and still a little tired, Max sat down on the sweet grass lining the bluff’s edge as he tried to recall bits and pieces of the dream.


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* Gasp *

A terrifying yell somewhere up above stirred me from a delicious dream I was having about that gorgeous…ummm…I mean that day back at the waterfall. Standing up I wrap my blanket around my body as I peer into the darkness up above. Kai growls protectively and sniffs the air intently; we stand there for a minute just listening.

“Hmmm…probably just an animal looking for its midnight snack.” I say to Kai. She seems to understand what I have just said for she trots to my side and happily licks my hand. Sitting back on the beach’s smooth sand, I poke my small fire with a long stick stirring the dying embers back to life.

The waves gently lap at the beach’s shore and Kai reluctantly lies back down upon the beach’s silky sands. Lifting my pillow, I scooted closer to both Kai and to my makeshift hearth. Nestling closer to both Kai’s lush pelt…I turn my eyes to the heavens and gasp aloud.

“Wow!” I breathe. “Have you ever seen anything so beautiful Kai?”

Kai whimpers and whines at me as she attempts to throw one of her dainty paws across my face. Giggling I cover both of her eyes with my hands as she playfully nips at my elbow. Before I knew it we were both on our feet frolicking on the sands, taking turns chasing each other.

I had just tackled Kai sending both of our bodies tumbling head over heels when I heard a noise somewhere up above. Kai seemed to have heard it as well because she stopped nibbling on my finger and perked her ears skyward.

Since we were both panting really hard and we heard no other suspicious noises, Kai and I slowly shuffled back to our campsite where we both enjoyed a well-deserved rest.


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Max was fiddling with an odd shaped stone when he heard laughter from somewhere down below. Max stood up and squinted his eyes as he tried to spy the source of the sound. He saw a small fire pit off to his left and even further he thought he saw shadows tumbling in the sand.

Probably an amorous couple out looking for a good time. Max thought laughingly to himself.

He was so intent on finding the source of the noise that he allowed the rock to slip from his hand and noisily tumble over the edge.

Max took a quick step backwards hiding himself from the “lovers” view.

I hope I wasn’t seen. That would have been awk…wait a minute…didn’t Michael say he was meeting Maria later this night…that means…they could have…ERLACK! That could have been them down there!

Max felt a shudder of disgust wiggle from his shoulders all the way down to his toes. Feeling thoroughly grossed out, Max turned his back on the romantic couple and slowly strolled home.


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I woke the following morning just as the sun came over the horizon. Sitting up I rub the sleep from my eyes and stretched my legs. Kai was nowhere to be seen, but I had a feeling that she might be catching herself some breakfast.

“Mmmm…breakfast…” I say softly. “…that sounds good.”

I grabbed my knapsack straps with my toes in order to bring closer to me. Rummaging around a bit I finally withdraw an apple and happily bite into its sweet fleshy meat. Humming softly to myself, I take in a deep breath of air.

“This is the perfect day to start a new life.” I sigh contentedly aloud and begin to plan what I should wear on what I intended to be one of the happiest days of my life.


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“Rise and shine my lil’ ray of sunshine.” Michael cooed into Max’s ear early the next morning.

“Arg! Leave me alone Michael…it’s too early.” Max grumbled as he pulled his pillow over his head.

“Actually Maxie boy…it is almost noon. You’re lucky I let you sleep in so late.” Michael replied jovially.

“Uggg…why are you yelling?” Max mumbled from underneath his pillow.

“So Max…how does it feel to lose to Michael the Great.” Michael chuckled as he pulled open the linen curtains causing sunlight to flood into the room.

Grumbling incoherently, Max wriggled deeper into the comforting darkness of his quilts.

“Ah ah ah…” Michael sang out as he pulled Max’s quilt off of the bed. “…it is time to get up my little sleepy head, we’ve got a big day ahead of us.”

Max reluctantly sat up causing his head to slightly throb with a dull pain that he vaguely recalled as a hangover. Never had he lost so badly that he actually felt the pain of drinking too much; then again, never before had his mystery woman plagued his mind.

“And what, pray tell, does this big day entail?”

“Come on Max. I’ve been preparing this for weeks. Don’t tell me you actually forgot?!?”

Max thought hard to himself.

I can’t remember. What are we supposed to be doing today??? What…what is today???

Scratching his head, Max tried to recall what was so damn important about this particular day that Michael felt that he should get up before he was ready. Max had just opened his mouth to admit that he hadn’t the slightest clue of what Michael was talking about when he saw Michael’s crestfallen face. Max didn’t want to disappoint Michael so he rubbed his chin, looked up and smiled as he feigned an epiphany.

Michael slowly smiled and wagged his finger at Max.

“Ahhhhh…you had me goin’ there for awhile Maxie boy. I almost believed that you had forgotten. Maria would have skinned you alive if she knew that you forgot about her birthday. Hurry up and get changed…oh…and do something about your hair. It looks like a bird tried to nest in it or something.”

With that being said, Michael turned on his heel and walked out of the room.

SHIT!


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It took me a little while to find the fresh water spring that ran along side the town, but when I did find it I plunged right in. I spent approximately an hour and a half scrubbing with scented soap and anointing my body with gardenia and night blooming jasmine oils. I had just started to put on my undergarments when Kai came trotting along. She hungrily lapped at the cool water while her eyes scanned the surroundings. I felt so protected under her watchful gaze, my heart swelled with happiness towards my loving companion as I scratched her tenderly between the ears.

Turning my attention back to the task at hand, I focused on what I should wear on my first day in town. I was torn between a blue-green gown and a one a soft shade of lavender. Each was quite lovely in its own way, I just wasn’t sure which one was “first day in my new home” material.

Holding up both gowns I turn to Kai.

“Which one do you think I should wear Kai?”

Kai cocks her head and thoughtfully gazes at each one. She then turns tail and tugs at my knapsack.

“Ka-ai…” I whine dropping my hands to my sides. “You just ate you little piglet! Help me decided what to wear.”

However, my protestations are of no use for Kai’s head had already disappeared within my knapsack’s leather folds. Tossing the two gowns over a low hanging branch of a nearby tree, I huffily march over to Kai and withdraw her head from my bag.

“Kai…I just wanted your opinion now if you would just…”

Kai had pulled a soft pink gown that my Nanai had given me last winter. Kai gently released her hold on the fabric and carefully nudged it with her nose in my direction. A small smile tugged at the corners of my mouth as I lifted the sleeveless dress from the ground.

“It’s perfect.” I breathe. “I don’t even remember packing this.”

Kai softly licked the back of my hand and placed one of her dainty paws on my knee. Holding the dress close to my body, I bend over and look at my reflection in the slowly moving stream.

“You don’t think its too provocative…do you Kai?”

“A woh woh woh.” Kai grumbles at my question before sitting down with a huff.

“I’m sorry…I don’t mean to question your taste...will you listen to me.” I say laughingly, “I’m taking fashion advice from someone who runs around naked all day.”

Kai then stands up and playfully nips at my heels.

“Hey! Okay okay! I’m sorry. I’ll put on the dress.” I reply pleasantly while bending down to kiss Kai on the nose.

With one final twirl, I begin to put on the dress.


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[oObubblesOo]

Hello all!

I know...I know...I MAJORLY suck! But...I have to say...I've definitely enjoyed my summer vacation while it lasted. Now I'm back in school and will soon be drowning in homework. And since you've all been sooooo patient and understanding...I decided to post the next part. It's kinda a filler...but that's only because I've introduced some new characters.

For you fellow dreamers out there...not to worry...there will FINALLY be some dreamer interaction in the next part...but until then...this will have to do. I hope you like...please let me know what you think of it...

<center>...with out further ado...PART XII...</center>

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>

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Everything seemed twice as bright and twice as cheerful than it had been yesterday. Not even the best of days could compare with this one. Then again, it could be because yesterday wasn’t the first day of my new life.

I spent another hour doing my hair and smeared the slightest bit of rouge on my cheeks before I was fully satisfied with my appearance. By then the sun had already had been up for a couple of hours. Now would be the ideal time to make my first appearance in town. It wasn’t too early nor too late.

It was perfect.

Picking up my bag, I followed the stream towards the outskirts of Sapphire Bay.


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”SHIT!” Max cursed aloud jumping off of his bed.

“How could I forget…woah!” His sudden movement seemed to make the room spin so he braced himself by grabbing hold of the back of a nearby chair.

“WHAT! What’s wrong?!?!”

Michael came bursting back into the room worry written all over his face.

”Oh…ummm…I stubbed my toe on…um…on…that uneven floorboard again.” Max nervously stammered bending down to rub said ‘injured’ toe.

“Oh…” Michael replied obviously relieved, “…how many times are you going to have to stub your toe on that thing before you finally fix it?” He asked laughingly as he retreated down the hall.

“At least one more time.” Max murmured under his breath. Inhaling deeply, Max slowly tilted his head side to side stretching his aching neck muscles.

“Okay…okay…I just gotta move quickly that’s all.” Max mumbled to himself as he pulled fresh clothes out of his armoire. “If I hurry…I can make it to Adelaide’s and back before the party starts.”

Max quickly changed into his clean clothes, slipped on his leather boots and then walked purposefully out of the room.


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“Hmmm…hmmm…hmmmm hmmm hmm…hmmm…hmmm…hmmmm hmmmm hmmmmm…hmmmmmmmm…When I think of you…” I half sing under my breath as I hopped from stone to stone as I crossed the happily gurgling spring.

My heart felt light as a feather as I half skipped-half walked towards the town. Kai was trotting along off to my right, snapping playfully at falling leaves as they tumbled and danced in the wind. The closer I drew to Sapphire Bay, the lighter I felt. I was absolutely certain that at any moment, I would take to the air and float away like a happy pink cloud.

I was approximately a hundred yards away from the town’s edge when Kai’s whimpering brought me to a halt. Turning to face my faithful companion, I noticed her obvious discomfort in the situation. She had fallen back a few paces and would not go any closer; she instead paced fretfully back and forth nervously sniffing the air and every now and then she would quickly leap like a skittish colt before a thunderstorm.

“Kai…? What’s wrong?” I called out to her as I nervously surveyed the area.

She continued to mournfully whimper and whine as she paced. Her distress deeply troubled me. I couldn’t see anything that seemed dangerous, and was slightly frightened that a courageous soul as she was edgy when she had been so confident moments before.

Taking a small step towards her, I tried again to call her to my side.

“Kai? It’s okay…come here…” I cooed as patted my thighs.

Kai took a couple nervous steps backwards before turning tail. The rich green foliage almost immediately devoured the brightness of her white pelt and she disappeared from my sight.

“Kai!” I called out to her as I took a few steps forward, but I knew it was of no use. She was already gone. It was at that moment when it hit me.

Of course she wouldn’t want to come with me. We’d probably be attacked if I strolled into town with a wolf by my side. She was probably doing me a favor by staying in the woods…at least…I hope that’s what she’s doing…

“Don’t worry Kai…” I murmured, “…I’ll be back later tonight!” I continued a little louder.

Resting my hand on a nearby tree I wiped a stray tear from my cheek.

“I hope she comes back…” I softly hiccough. Shaking my head and inhaling sharply I turn my eyes heavenward in a vain attempt to keep the tears in my eyes from spilling over. I exhale deeply and pick up my bag.

I wish I didn’t have to lug this heavy bag around…it makes it even more obvious that I’m a nomadic traveler.

“Well…who says I have to…I think I’ll only need my cloak for tonight…I’ll just leave it here and come back for it later.” I say aloud as I scan the immediate area for a good hiding place.

The tree that I rested my hand upon had a small hollow at its base. Luckily for me, it was just large enough to shove my bag in. I knew that she wouldn’t be there, but I couldn’t help taking one last look around.

Oh well…I hope I’ll see her later on tonight.

Lifting my chin and squaring my shoulders I turn on my heel and stride confidently towards the bustling town.


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“Hmmmm…maybe the blue one…”Maria ponders thoughtfully aloud as she holds the fifteenth dress up to her slender form as she gazes into the floor length mirror.

Nope…no no no. I forgot…this one makes my calves look fat. Maria wrinkles her nose distastefully and tosses the garment on the towering pile of rejects. Hmmmm….what about…the teal one…no. I think I ripped some of the seams on it after that night in the woods with Mikey-moe.

Maria couldn’t help but smile at the memory as a faint blush of excitement stains her cheek. It was early on in their relationship, nearly a year ago come to think of it, and she was eager for Michael to finally make the first move. The low cut dress, the fabulous dinner on the beach, the romantic stroll in the woods and the countless flirty comments gave Michael the final push he needed. It didn’t really matter that she was pulling random twigs and leaves out of her hair for the next couple of days, what mattered was that she was sure that Michael was the one.

Well that….and…he’s an absolute animal in bed! Or forest…beach…anywhere…actually. Maria happily thought to herself as she plopped on top of the pile of “hideous” gowns. She was just about to replay the happy memory in her mind again when she remembered the crisis at hand.

Picking a suitable party dress.

Chuckling softly to herself, Maria stood up and slowly sauntered back to her immensely large closet.

She wasn’t supposed to know about the fabulous party that Michael was “secretly” planning for her, however being as intuitive and as intelligent as she is, it only took a matter of days to find out what all the whispering was about. Well…that and a few threats of closing down the place, she found out pretty quickly.

Maria had been working at the Sapphire Bay Pub since the young age of three. Her mother, Hazel, was a singer and had the voice of an angel, her father, Isaiah liked to make sure that both of his girls were safe and happy and did so by running the place. By the time that she was able to stand, Hazel knew that Maria was a performer. She could sing and dance better than anyone else for miles around, and after her parents passed away, Maria had inherited the Sapphire Bay Pub and kept it just as lively and entertaining just as it had been when Hazel commanded the stage.

Maria’s fingers quickly flicked through garment after garment, each one was beautiful in its own way, but none seemed appropriate for the occasion.

“Oh…I can’t show up to my own party dressed like an old hag!” Maria pouts plopping back down on the bed jostling the ornately carved birdcage hanging over her bedside table. Several distressed squeaks and chirps called out from behind the behind the bars of the rosewood cage.

“Oh…I’m so sorry my little angels. Mommy didn’t mean it.” Maria cooed at her startled canaries. The birds chirped nervously as they shook their tail feathers and smoothed the ruffled wings.

“I’m sorry my little…wait…that’s it! Raelyn’s Shoppe! Oh! Why didn’t I think of that before! If I hurry…it could still be there!”

Sweeping a white cloak over her shoulders Maria blew a kiss to her still slightly flustered birds and walked out of the house.


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Please don’t be closed…please don’t be closed… Max urgently chanted in his mind. Many shoppe’s were closing early so the whole town could attend Maria’s party later that evening.

“How could I be so stupid!” Max angrily muttered under his breath. “I was supposed to have ordered those flowers a couple of days ago for Maria’s party but then...then I ran into her…and everything changed.”

Max felt his legs turn to jelly and he tripped over his own feet and fell face first into the soft earth.

“Ow!” Max muffled into the dirt. Pushing himself off of the floor Max brushed the soil from the front of his clothes. He has to stop torturing himself this way!

Forget it Max! You’ll never see her again…just…forget…HER!

Max was just about to start running again when a blur of pink off to his left caught his eye. He took a few steps towards it and then changes his mind.

“Eh…probably just a bird.” Max mutters as he turns and continues his way towards Adelaide’s.


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“Hmmmm…what should I get someone whom I absolutely hate!” Tess thought as she tried on yet another dazzling hat.

“Oh…I dunno…a dead animal or something?” Chelsea replied as she held up a dark blue dress up to her body and gazed at her reflection thoughtfully.

“Don’t be disgusting.” Tess snapped irritably as she yanked off the hat and replaced it with another. “I would never touch a dead animal unless it was served as the main course.” Tess replied as she tilted her head and puckered her lips.

“Speaking of never touching something…” Tess continued holding Chelsea’s gaze in the mirror, “…I would keep your hands off of my dress. It was custom made to fit my body, and my body alone. I don’t want you stretching it out or worse…ruining it.”

Chelsea blushed furiously and put the dress back on the bed.

“Besides…I was planning on wearing that tonight. I’m sure Maxwell will love it.”

“But what about…”

”Oh! Never mind him…he’s no fun at all. It’s always the same with him. He’s not exciting…it’s Max I want.”

”But…he’s never really shown any interest in you before…”

Tess whipped her head around and narrowed her eyes at her ignorant sibling.

“He’s playing hard to get…that’s all.” Tess retorted coldly before returning her gaze to her flawless reflection.

I mean…who wouldn’t want me. Tess thought to herself. I’m every man’s dream! Ringlets of gold, sky blue eyes, soft creamy skin, voluptuous curves and a bountiful bosom. I have the complete package…and tonight…Max will finally come to his senses and into my bed. Tess thought happily to herself.

“Tonight…Max will be mine.”


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[oObubblesOo]

Hello all my lovely readers!

I know I've said this countless times in the past...but I'll say it again. I SUCK! I'm sorry to have kept you all waiting for so long...but I have a good excuse this time...he he he...school started in the beginning of this month and I've been up to my eyeballs in homework and readings ever since. But I know how much you all love this story...so I set aside some special time today to finish up the last part of the thirteenth installment of my fic...(( I'm supposed to be working on an English paper...but hey! I love you guys more ))

So...if I ever fall behind again...which I'm sure will happen...just continue to bump and I'll get my lazy ass into gear...otay? Well...without any further ado...I present to you...

<center> Part XIII</center>

<center> oO bubbles Oo</center>


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Just act natural. Don’t act suspicious. Blend.

I feel my heart pound loudly underneath the thin layers of pink silky material as it threatens to pop right out of my chest. Even though I try my best to act as if I belong, I can feel eyes on me as I stroll down the street. As I survey the area, I catch the gaze of a blonde man as his eyes roam up and down my body. I feel uncomfortable under his piercing stare and quicken my pace a bit.

Okay…just don’t let it bother you. Think about something else. Ummm…flowers…. Uhhh…lush green grasses…er…what else…sparkling lakes…pounding water…skin to skin…those amber eyes…mmmm…those strong arms…

I was so wrapped up in reminiscing that I forgot to pay attention to where I was going and bumped right into an old woman.

"Oops. Careful dearie." A voice called out from behind a mountain of fabric; a few tumbled off her pile and onto the floor.

"Oh! I’m so sorry. I should have been more careful. Let me help you with that." I stammer out, as my face turns pink with embarrassment.

Oh why did I have to start daydreaming? I’m so clumsy! How humiliating!

"Don’t fret my dear, it could have happened to anyone. I appreciate your help though."

The old woman’s salt and pepper hair was wound up into a thick bun at the top of her head. Her sparkling cornflower blue eyes were filled with joy and laughter as she bent down to help me pick up the bolts of fabric I had caused her to drop.

"I’m really sorry. I hope none of these are ruined. I’ll be willing to pay…"

"No dear heart…that’s unnecessary. Finally meeting you was payment enough."

I was a little taken aback by this statement. I couldn’t help but wonder what her comment meant.

Does she know who I am? Did she mean that the way I think she meant it? Oh no! My cover is blown and I haven’t even been here a whole day and now I’m going to have to leave!

She must have noticed the blank look on my face because she continued.

"Aren’t you Rose’s daughter?"

I let out a shaky breath and smiled.

"No…I’m sorry…but I’m not."

"Well honey…to be honest…I’m glad you’re not."

"Why is that?"

"Because I’m supposed to be making this dress for Rose’s daughter’s upcoming birthday and I haven’t even started yet." She whispered conspiratorially from behind her hand.

"Oh…well…I’ll make sure not to tell her." I replied with a giggle.

"Try to avoid her if you can. That Leslie is a real monster…but don’t call her Leslie…she’ll tear your head off if you do…she goes by the name…"

"Wendy! Is that you Wendy?" A woman called out as she came walking up towards us.

"Iris? Is that you Iris? My stars! How long has it been since I last saw you?"

"The last time I came to see you up in Lemon Grove I think. I didn’t know you were in town!"

"I’m here on business…" she deposited a few bolts of fabric into Iris’s hands before turning back to me. "It was nice to meet you my dear. I hope to run into you again soon."

"Same here. See you around Wendy…"

"Until we meet again…I’m sorry…what was your name again."

"Oh…ummm…it’s Lizbeth…but call me Liz."

"Okay…Liz. Good-bye."

"Good bye Wendy."

With that, Wendy and Iris bustled down the street and I continued to explore the town.


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"Oh! It’s even more beautiful than I remember it being!" Maria gushed as she spun around in circles in front of the large mirror.

"Well of course it’s beautiful…it only took me three weeks to perfect the design." Raelyn chuckled softly as she tried to keep her hold on the gown’s hem. "Now hold still…if you want it altered today you’re gonna have to stop prancing around my store."

"I just can’t help it. It’s so gorgeous!!" Maria gushed.

Maria recalled the lemon yellow silk dress after consoling her distressed canaries. The fabric matched the shade of the bird’s feathers exactly. Maria tried as hard as she could to repress the excited shudder that tickled at her spine.

The dress was absolute perfection. It hugged her curves in all the right ways and flounced gently at her feet. The straps were thin and gauzy and what appealed to her the most was how low the back went. The silky material came just above her round rump.

Michael is going to DIE when he sees me in this! Maria thought happily as wiggled excitedly.

"So…is there any particular reason why you want this dress in such a hurry?" Raelyn asked quietly, trying her best to seem indifferent.

"Oh knock it off Rae-Rae…I know about the party." Maria replied while twisting her hair into different styles as she tried to decide the best way to wear her hair.

"You know?!?" Raelyn gasped.

"Of course I know! You didn’t expect me not to find out…did you?" Maria replied with a giggle.

"Whew! I didn’t know how much longer I could have kept that secret from you! I was fighting the urge ever since you stepped in my store!" Raelyn replied as she shared Maria’s giggles.

"So…how much do I owe you Rae-Rae? For the dress and everything?"

"Not a single thing. Consider this your present."

"Really?"

"Yes. Really."

Touched by her thoughtfulness Maria stooped down and swept her friend in a bone-shattering hug.

"Thank you so much. It’s absolutely breath taking."

"Okay…okay… I think we’ve established that the dress is beautiful…now will you let me go…I’d like to keep my ribs intact." Raelyn croaked out.

Both of the women laughed heartily as Maria stood back up and Raelyn continued working on her hemline.


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"So do you think you can do it?" Max inquired after her had stated his problem to Adelaide.

"I don’t know Max…that’s a lot of work that I’d have to do in such a short amount of time…" Adelaide replied slowly as she twisted a strand of her long fiery red hair around her finger.

"Please Adelaide…PLEASE! Michael will kill me if I don’t have those arrangements by the time the party starts."

"Oh…okay…but you gotta promise me a couple of things."

"Anything!"

"Well…first of all…you have to help me make them."

"That sounds reasonable. You’re helping me out after all."

"And then…you have to…to promise…to dance with me at least once at the party." Adelaide replied hurriedly as she stared intently at the floor.

Max was a little surprised by her request. He had never thought about Adelaide in that way before. Sure she was cute, blazing red hair, hazel eyes, creamy fair skin with a handful of freckles sprinkled across her nose, but for some odd reason he just didn’t feel the sparks of romance towards the girl.

Whoa…wasn’t expecting that…well…she is doing me a favor…she is cute…not exactly my type…not nearly as gorgeous as…NO! Forget her. Quit torturing yourself. You’ll never see her again. Besides…I don’t want to feel the wrath that Michael was talking about. Well…

"Ummm…sure…why not." Max replied with false brightness as he nervously ran a hand through his hair.

Adelaide shyly brought her eyes to meet Max’s.

"Really?"

"Of course…" Max replied reassuringly as he took one of her hands in his.

A big smile slowly spread across Adelaide’s face as she took a step closer to Max.

"Okay…let’s get to work!"


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The sky was already tinged with the electric pinks and yellows of the late afternoon sun when I finally took a break from sightseeing.

Hmmm…let’s see…I think I’ve seen everything on the western borders of town and some of the central shoppe’s…I still haven’t seen the pub or the tavern…I think I’ve accomplished a lot today! I thought cheerfully to myself.

* Gurgle gurgle growl! *

Oops. I guess in the excitement of sight seeing…I must have ignored my stomach.

Taking in my surroundings, I noticed that I was about five buildings away from the pub.

"Well…I guess I could grab a bite to eat…grab my stuff and then head back to the beach before nightfall."

I pinched my cheeks and smoothed my hair and set off towards the Sapphire Bay Pub.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


"I think that’s the last one.” Michael stated as he placed the final arrangement of flowers on the last empty table. “These are perfect Max! How in the world did you know Maria’s favorite flower?”

“Ummm…good memory I suppose.” Max replied sheepishly as he tugged nervously on his golden chain.

“Hmmm…tell me Max…which flower was her favorite again?” Adelaide coyly asked as she poked Max in the ribs.

Crap! I knew I should have confessed when I had the chance!

The truth was that Max hadn’t a single clue on what kind of flowers Maria would like so he asked Adelaide to use her imagination when she was making the bouquets. So, Adelaide used a variety of her own favorite flowers to create the beautiful centerpieces, which consisted of lavender stock, pink gerbera daisies, delphinium, spray roses, alstromeria and snapdragons.

“Snapdragons of course…right Max?” Michael replied laughingly as he smacked Max heartily on the back.

“Snapdragons. Right.” Max nervously chuckled.

Adelaide shook her crimson locks and laughed as she straightened the bow around a vase.

Max rubbed his eyes and sighed.

This is gonna be a long night!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Hmmm…I think I’m going to wait awhile before I make my appearance at the pub.” Tess muttered thoughtfully as she peered out her window.

Tess was still in her undergarments as she stood with her forehead pressed against the glass that looked out into the street. Sure people could see her from where she stood, but she didn’t care, it wasn’t anything that half the men in town hadn’t seen before. Yet she liked to tease those who hadn’t experienced her soft flesh first hand.

Sighing softly to herself, Tess reluctantly took a step back away from the window and strolled back towards her immense bed.

“I guess I might as well take a nap…after all…I’ll need my beauty sleep if I intend to keep Max in a state of eternal bliss tonight.” Tess murmured happily as she pulled the blankets around her body.


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Wow. I wonder if it’s always this busy. I thought to myself as I drew closer to the Sapphire Bay Pub. Looks like the whole town is here. There must be something special going on tonight.

I carefully climbed the steps that led into the building and some how managed to squeeze myself inside. The place was absolutely packed. The majority of the people sat in clusters around tables while the rest stood either along the bar or in any other open space available. Since I saw no empty tables, I decided that I might as well visit the bar.

As I made my way towards the bar, I found myself being pressed against different strangers, which made me a little uneasy. Halfway towards my destination, I could have sworn that someone had reached out and pinched my rear end, but when I turned to confront the rump-assailant I saw no offending hands that weren’t either preoccupied clutching presents or drinks. From then on I kept my hands clasped behind my back in order to protect my bum.

I guess it must be somebody’s birthday.

When I finally made it to an empty stool, I placed an order for a large glass of juice and the day’s special.


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“Oh Mikie-mo…today was perfect.” Maria cooed as she snuggled deeper into Michael’s arms.

“No…you make today perfect. The mere fact that you are here…in my arms…on this day…makes this perfect.” Michael whispered as he planted a kiss on her head.

Michael had taken Maria out on a picnic on the shore to give the other guests time to arrive without drawing any suspicion. He also wanted to give Maria his gift to her in private.

“To add to your perfection…I have…uhh…something for you.” Michael continued as he sat up.

“Oh? And what is that?”

Michael smiled secretively as he pulled a small box out of his pocket.

“Well…you’re gonna have to open this to find out.”

By the gods! Is that…is that what I think it is?!?!


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“Attention! ATTENTION!” Max shouted as he jumped up onto the stage. “Maria and Michael should be here anytime now…so I’m going to ask that you all lower your voices and try to hide. I know that there isn’t much space…but please do the best you can.”


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


Well…I guess this is a party. I thought to myself as I took another bite into my chicken. I couldn’t really see anything from where I was located due to my severe lack of vertical-ness but it didn’t really matter. I was too engrossed in the succulent meal that had been laid before me.

I’ll probably stay for a little while…and leave if it gets too boring. I reasoned as I happily kicked my feet to and fro and placed the chicken bone back on the plate.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


* Whew! *

It wasn’t a ring! I don’t know what I would’ve done if it was a ring. I know that I love Michael…but I don’t think I’m ready for that type of commitment yet. Maria thought as she walked hand in hand up the trail that led back to town.

When Maria’s shaky hand reached out and opened the box, she almost fainted with relief when she saw what lay within. Michael had traveled all the way to Emerald City to get the best stone for Maria’s new star shaped emerald pendant. He had crafted the chain himself and told her that she was more beautiful than any heavenly body in the universe. She was his star.

Maria nearly broke down in tears as she leaped into his arms and pressed her lips passionately against his.

I’m the luckiest girl in the world!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


”SURPRISE!!! the crowd roared as Maria and Michael walked in the back door of the pub.

Maria let out a little yelp of surprise. She had actually let the party slip from her mind after Michael presented her with the best gift in the world, but she swiftly recovered and began to make her rounds around the throngs of people delivering hugs and kisses along the way.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


I guess the birthday person is here. I thought as I tried my best to see over the heads of the people around me.

If only I could see.

“You trying to see Maria?” a voice called out from behind me.

“Who?” I reply turning to see who was talking.

“Maria. The birthday girl.” The bartender replied. “You can stand on the stool if you like. I don’t mind.”

“Oh…thank you.” I reply as I carefully stand on the wooden stool.

The view is much better from above the crowd. A sea of happy people raise their glasses and cheer as a petite blonde girl in a fabulous lemon yellow dress makes her way around the room. It’s then when I see him.

The man from the falls is standing near the stage next to a cute red head. I can see his discomfort as he nervously rakes a hand through his hair and fakes a laugh at something the red head says. The mere sight of the man makes my legs tremble and I feel myself lose my balance.

“Whoa! Careful there missy.” The bartender calls out from below as he grabs hold of one of my calves in an attempt to steady me.

“Er…ummm…thank you.” I reply as I feel my face flush hot with embarrassment. “How much do I owe you?”

“Nothing…today’s Maria’s day. It’s on the house.”

“Oh…thank you.” I reply as I hop off the barstool.

Gotta get out. I gotta get out! My mind screams as I try to make my way towards the door.

“Marie-ah! Marie-ah! Marie-ah! Marie-ah! Marie-ah!” The crowd chants as I try to squeeze my way back towards the door, but there are too many people in my way and I hardly get anywhere when I hear a voice over the din.

“Thank you for coming!” Maria shouted from the stage. “I’m so glad that you all came to celebrate my eighteenth birthday with me!”

The crowd roared with appreciation as Maria smiled and waved.

“I would like to share my happiness with you all by singing you a song my mother used to sing to me a girl. I know it might be a little difficult due to the amount of people here tonight…but could we also make some room on the dance floor?”

The crowd parted and left the dance floor open as Maria began to sing her song. People began to sweep back and forth across the empty space as Maria’s rich voice filled the air. Unfortunately, the shift of people further blocked my exit so I was forced to remain where I stood.

“Ex-chuse me miss…* hiccough *…would ya…liketa dance.” A man slurred as he grasped my hands in his and began pushing me towards the dance floor.

“Ummm..sorry…I was just on my way out.” I replied as I tried to wrench my hands from his vice like grip.

The big oaf didn’t seem to have heard me because he continued to drag me closer towards the dance floor and was soon swinging me around, with little concern for the integrity of my joints.

“Stop…” I sputtered as I tried to unhook the man’s arm from around my waist, but my actions only made him hold onto me tighter.

“What…doncha like the way I dance?” The man slurred out as he pulled my body closer to him. I practically gagged at the way the pungent smell of sweat and alcohol clung to his body.

“I don’t want to dance!” I persisted, but the more I struggled, the tighter he held on. We were spinning around so fast that I was getting dizzy and beginning to feel a little sick.

“But you need to dance…come on honey…loosen up a little bit.” The man growled as his lips drew closer to my naked neck.

Taking matters into my own hands, I remembered the one weakness of all men. So during one of his clumsy turns, I hoisted my knee up and made firm contact with his family jewels. The drunken beast stumbled slightly and released his hold from around my body.

“What…was…that…for?!?” The man gasped as he slowly crumbled to the floor.

“That’s for not leaving the lady alone.” A voice called out from behind me.

A man stepped in between us and dragged the drunk to his feet.

“What are you? Her father? You don't know what the lady wants!”

“I think it’s time you went home Joseph.” My rescuer asserted with a firm voice refusing to budge from his place between us.

Crossing my hands across my chest I noticed that the people around us had stopped dancing and were watching the exchange between the two men. Joseph’s face flushed with anger as he looked like he was going to strike, but another man reached out and touched Joseph’s shoulders and he appeared to have changed his mind.

“Fine. This party is dead anyways.” Joseph growled as he turned and stalked towards the exit.

With the show over, people began to dance again and soon my rescuer and I were left standing alone in the midst of swirling dresses and quick moving feet.

I touched my rescuer on the shoulder in order to thank him just as he turned to face me.

“Thanks for…”

“Are you…”

We both started at the same time, it was then when we noticed who we were talking to.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


<center>It’s her!</center>


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


<center>It’s him!</center>


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>

[oObubblesOo]

Hey you guys!

I was planning on having the next part posted out yesterday....but since I was too busy celebrating my 21st Birthday...that didn't really happen. BUT I am happy to inform you that you guys will get the part today! Yay! I hope you guys like it...there is more interaction between the dreamers so that should make a lot of you happy.

Well...there isn't much more to say...so without any further ado...

<center>Part XIV!</center>

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


My stomach did a two-and-a-half somersault with a three-and-a-half twist.

I can’t believe it! It’s him! Oh please…just let me melt into the floor and ooze away!

The man seemed to be as taken aback as I was and nervously ran a hand through his dark locks and licked his lips.

“Ummm...hello.” He said in that soft sexy voice of his.

I felt my knees begin to quake just as a tipsy couple bumped into him; it was then when I remembered that we were still standing pretty much in the middle of the dance floor. We looked a little out of place given that we were the only people standing still while the others continued to float around to the sweet sounds of Maria’s song.

“Want to dance?” Max asked as he raised his hands uncertainly. “We should, for our own safety. Well…at least until we can make it to the edge of the floor.” He added with a tentative smile tugging playfully at the corners of his mouth.

I felt my cheeks burn with embarrassment and looked up at his face, fully intending to refuse. But when I looked into those large amber eyes and opened my mouth, I said, “Yes” instead of “No” and placed my hand in his.

My mind swirled with an assortment of emotions, half the time I wanted to flee towards the door, the other half I prayed that I could stay wrapped up in this man’s arms for all eternity. One thing was for certain.

This man could dance.

He didn’t seem to know all the proper steps as the men in the royal court do, but he had something that they lacked. He had confidence. He elegantly steered me around the room as we floated like butterflies in a gentle breeze. I noticed that we were drawing nearer to the edge of the floor and I couldn’t help but slightly veer him off course thus forcing us back into the throngs of the dancers.

I felt his body tense up.

Uh oh…did he notice what I did? Maybe he just wanted to get rid of me. I shouldn’t have steered us back into the crowd.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


Did she just do that? Or did I do that subconsciously? Oh well…what harm will a little dancing do? Max thought to himself as he brought Liz’s body a little closer to him and he continued to whirl around the floor.

This must be heaven!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“The party should have been going for at least a few hours by now…I think now is the perfect time to make my grand entrance.” Tess muttered softly as she gave herself one last approving look in the mirror before turning towards the door.

“Ready or not Max…here I come.”


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


The first dance of the night…I wonder where Max went off to? Adelaide wondered as she scanned the crowds for her soon-to-be dance partner. He was just here a moment ago…then he went somewhere over there…something about a fight…this has sure been an exciting night.

Adelaide had been absolutely elated when Max agreed to dance with her at the party. She had kept her feelings from him for so many years that she wondered when she would ever find the courage to tell him how much she cared about him.

“Well…I’m not going to find him just sitting here like a bump on a log…” Adelaide muttered under her breath as she stood and began to pick her way through the crowd.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>



“Who is she?”

”Huh? Who?”

“That girl…the one dancing with Max.”

“Oh…I dunno…isn’t she the baker’s niece?”

”No…that’s Lanah…right?”

”Don’t ask me…I’ve drunk so much I couldn’t tell the front of a horse from the back end! * hiccough *”


Adelaide had just pushed her way through a tight knit of people when she saw him. Max was elegantly spinning around the room with a raven-haired goddess tightly intertwined in his arms. Adelaide was no fool and could tell that there was some type of feeling between them just by the way that the pair held each other as they gracefully glided over the floor. Hot tears of shame and jealousy sprang into her eyes as she turned and pushed her way forcefully towards the door.

It isn’t fair! He was supposed to dance with me and fall in love with me tonight!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Watch it cow!” Tess barked angrily as a flustered red head came barreling out of the pub. The girl didn’t even seem to notice her and ran down the street.

Tess smoothed her dress and shifted her bosom so she looked even more voluptuous before striding confidently into the already pack room.

Well well well…it’s not such a bad party after all… Tess thinks to herself as she slowly snakes her way around the room. She makes sure to press her body a little to firmly against the men she passes by as she searches the room for her prey. Now…if I were awaiting my arrival…where would I be?

Tess finally made her way to the edge of the dance floor when she spotted him. Max was merely a few feet away from her when he whished right past her with a breath taking brunette wrapped happily in his arms.

“What!?!” Tess squawked angrily as her jaw dropped to the floor.

How dare she! That ignorant little twit thinks that she can take Maxwell from me! Well I’ll show her!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


I can stare into his golden eyes forever. I thought dreamily as we continued to spin around the room.

The sound of the music and of happy people conversing seemed to slowly disappear as the gorgeous man steered me gracefully across the floor. My eyes slowly roamed over his beautiful face as I slowly took in the soft lashes framing his intense eyes and the slow delicate curve of those delicious looking lips. My mind seemed to hum with excitement as we continued to sashayed and swirled across the floor.

It only took a soft chuckle from nearby to shatter the bubble of bliss that surrounded the stranger and I. The man reluctantly tore his gaze from mine and looked quickly from his left and to his right and I did the same. It only took me a moment to realize that we had been dancing long after the birthday girl finished her song. I could feel the familiar hot flush of embarrassment as I stared down at the floor. However…what shocked me even more is how the stranger continued to hold my hands in his.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Well…I’m glad that you guys really liked my song. I guess that’s my cue to keep on singing!” Maria announced as she joined the crowd in a robust snigger.

The crowd roared with appreciation as Maria began to sing a more upbeat song. Max was just about to ask his mysterious beauty for another dance when he felt someone’s arms snake around his waist.

“There you are Maxie…have you been waiting long?” a throaty voice purred behind him.

The beautiful stranger’s eyes flicked between the hands and his face and he could see an idea churning within that little head of hers. She quickly pulled her hands from his grasp and began to slowly back up.

“Thanks for keeping him company dear.” Tess continued as she moved in between Max and the dark haired beauty. “He’s in good hands now.” She stated with a wink as she slowly dragged her hand down Max’s cheek.

Max was too stunned to say anything at first but it only took him a second to find his voice once he saw the hurt expression on his goddess’s face.

“Wait! This isn’t what you think!” Max began as he plucked Tess’ arms from his body, but the girl was already beginning to disappear into the crowd before he even got a chance to finish.

“Max?!? Where do you think you are going?!?!” Tess purred again as she grabbed hold of Max’s wrist.

“I lost her once! I’m not going to lose her again!” Max hissed, as he pulled free from the seductress’ grasp.

Tess was shaking with rage as she watched Max disappear into the crowd.

That girl must have bewitched him! No one plays with my things and gets away with it! That girl will pay! Max will be mine!


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I can’t believe I let that man humiliate me again! I think angrily to myself as I hoist my dress up to my knees and sprint down the main road. I can hear men catcalling as they see my tan legs exposed, but I pay them no heed and pump my legs faster as I run towards the safety of the forest.

“I should have known that he was with someone! No man that gorgeous doesn’t have a beautiful woman to call his own! How could I have been so stupid!”

“WAIT!” A voice calls out somewhere from behind me.

I steal a glance over my shoulder and see that it is the source of my humiliation.

“Leave me alone!” I scream as I pump my legs even harder.

“Please…wait! It’s not what you think!” He continues.

I barely hear his last statement as I plunge into the darkness of the trees.

I can’t outrun him...he’s too fast…I need to hide!

I duck behind a large knotty tree and pull my cloak tightly around my body and tug the hood over my face just as the man rushes past me.

His steps falter as he passes the tree that I’m hiding by. I try to regulate my breathing so I’m not panting so loudly as he bends over and catches his breath. The man hungrily gulps in the fresh cool air as he searches the nearby vicinity. His golden eyes seem to shine brightly as he tries to determine what direction I went off to.

I feel a large bug crawl over my foot and gasp. The small sound attracted his attention and the man took a few steps towards the tree. My heart pounds loudly as the man slowly closes the distance between us and before I know it we are face to face.

I’m caught!


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>

[oObubblesOo]

Hello my lovely readers...

Hurray for me! I'm so proud of myself. I wrote this entire part in one day! ((actually in only a few hours)) This part is also a little longer than the others...so I hope you all like it.

For those of you who are curious...my home was untouched by the fire ((THANK GOD!))...and the fire has finally been extinguished. Double Hurray!

There is a little A/N at the end of this part...I wanted to make sure I stated it but if I put it in the beginning then it would give something away. So...ummm...yup...that's it. Anyhoo...without any further ado...

<center>PART XV!</center>

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Damnit!” Max cursed as he pounded his fists against the tree. Worn out from his brief chase, Max pressed his forehead against the cool bark of the tree as he tried to catch his breath.

“I can’t believe I lost her again!”


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


I couldn’t help but flinch when the man forcefully pounded the tree I was leaning against. Luckily, his hands hit inches away from the sides of my head. It took all the self-control I had to keep from screaming in terror. The wild look in his eyes both scared and intrigued me. In fact, I was so lost in the intensity of his honey colored orbs that it took me awhile to process what he had said.

‘I can’t believe I lost her again!’ That means! He can’t see me! Of course…it all makes sense, the cloak must be hiding me…like it did back at Pearl Ridge! I discovered the secret!

My fear instantly changed to relief as I carefully studied my pursuers gorgeous features. By tilting my head upwards slightly I was able to feel his warm breath on my forehead as he panted to regain his breath. My eyes were tracing the delicate curve of his slightly chapped lips when his pink tongue darted out to moisten them. I couldn’t help but mimic his action as I drew my face slightly nearer to his.

That’s when he pulled away.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


Max growled with frustration as he fretfully pace back and forth. Every now and again he’d pause and listen for any foreign sounds.

By the gods…she was even more beautiful than I remembered. I can hardly believe that she was in my arms. If only Tess hadn’t shown up!

Max raked his hands through his hair as his eyes darted hopefully through the trees.

“Ugh! It’s of no use. I won’t be able to find her tonight. No doubt she has run for the protection of that white wolf of hers. I guess I’ll just have to try again tomorrow.” Max muttered under his breath.

Surveying the area once last time, Max reluctantly trudged his way back towards town.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>

My pursuer had wandered a little too far from the tree I stood by so that even my keen elven ears couldn’t pick up what he muttered under his breath. I didn’t dare move until I was sure that the man had departed lest he hear me and decide to continue the chase. My heart rate had just returned to normal when a giant shiver cascaded down my spine.

“Boy is it chilly.” I mumbled under my breath as I rubbed my chilled shoulders. “Better find my knapsack.”

Pulling my cloak tighter around me, I began my search for the hollow tree.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Hmmmm…I could have sworn it was this way…Damn that gorgeous man…if he just let me be and hadn’t chased me I wouldn’t be so turned around.” I grumbled unhappily as I rubbed my eyes with the backs of my hands.

I had been wandering around for at least an hour and my legs were beginning to feel achy from the chase.

“Maybe it’s in a little deeper.” I mumbled through my now chattering teeth. I took one last look at the twinkling town lights as I plunged deeper into the woods.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Okay…don’t panic…nothing’s going to happen…everything is fine.” I whispered as I tried to convince myself that there was nothing to worry about.

By now the moon had fully risen and was currently hiding behind dark wispy clouds thus shedding an eerie muted light upon the ground. I had given up my search an hour ago and was just trying to make my way back to the beach.

“oo OO oo!” An owl hooted from somewhere up above.

“Oh! I wish Kai were here.”

The boughs above my head groaned as their leaves rustled slightly in the wind. Then somewhere off to my left a few twigs snapped.

My posture became rigid as I strained my ears and sought out the source of the noise.

A bush off to my right rustled a bit and then fell silent.

By now my heart was thundering in my chest and the little hairs on the back of my neck were prickling as I whipped my head around in a vain attempt to locate the source of the sound.

All of a sudden a loud crash came from somewhere behind me. The noise was all it took to send me running as I shrieked at the top of my lungs.

Branches pulled and snagged my hair as I ran in no particular direction. I couldn’t help but steal glances over my shoulder to see if some ravenous beast was pursuing me but my hair flew across my eyes and I really wasn’t able to see anything. I had just turned back around when…

* THWACK! *


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>


“Are you sure it was her?” Michael asked as Max finished gulping down his second glass of water. “Maybe it was the baker’s niece…you know…what’s her face…Lanah.”

No…for the millionth time! It was her! I’m such a fool…I let her slip away again.” Max moaned as he put his head down on the still cluttered table.

Max had slowly made his way back towards the pub to see if Michael needed any help cleaning up. Luckily…there wasn’t too much to be done. Michael had told Maria that she wasn’t allowed to lift a single finger and told her that she should go home and the he would meet her later on. Most of the cleaning had already been done…there were only a handful of dirty glasses on the table, but Josiah, the bartender, said he’d take care of that in the morning.

Michael sighed and patted Max on the back.

“You know Max…it seems like every time you meet up with this girl…you end up scaring the pants off her.”

“Hey! She was fully clothed the entire time tonight.” Max mumbled not bothering to lift his head from the tabletop.

“You know what I mean though. What was that saying again…something about bees…and…molasses?”

“That’s flies and honey you dolt.” Max chuckled as he pushed his chair away from the table. “And yes I understand…I gotta back off a bit…I just hope it’s not too late…I know I don’t know anything about her…bur she plagues my thoughts. I can’t forget about her. It’s like…I’m drawn to her.”

Max looked up only to see Michael smirking at him with an eyebrow arched in an amused fashion.

“Oh…shut it…” Max replied testily. “I’m going home.”

“What?” I didn’t say anything!” Michael replied laughingly as he grabbed his coat off of the back of his chair.

“You didn’t have to…your face betrays your thoughts.” Max replied as he walked out the door.

“Was it that obvious?” Michael chuckled. “OH!”

“ ‘ OH!’ What?”

“I just thought of something…”

“What?”

”What if Maria meets your goddess? Do you think she’ll tell about what happened at the falls?”

Max looked at Michael’s panic stricken expression and burst out laughing.

“Shut up man! But seriously…do you really think that she’ll tell??”

By now Max was howling with laughter as Michael chased him down the road.


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“Maria?” Michael whispered as he softly knocked on her door. “Maria? Are you still awake?”

After Michael had chased Max all the way back to their home he turned around and headed back towards Maria’s house for a little late night cuddling.

Maria refused to move into town after her parents passed away. She continued to live in the home that her father had built even though it was a good fifteen-minute walk from the pub and the rest of town. Even now, nearly ten years after their passing, Maria believed that every once in awhile she could feel her parent’s presence in the house.

Michael never pressured her to leave her home. He understood that Maria had clung to the home for sentimental reasons yet in some ways her actions surprised him. She cherished her past while he couldn’t care less about the family that had left him behind. However, her strong sense of family ties is one of the reasons why he cared for her son. She possessed the qualities that he wanted to instill in his own children.

Their children.

Michael couldn’t help but smile as he allowed that thought to roll around in his head. Sighing contentedly, Michael slowly raised his hand to knock again when the door suddenly opened.

Maria’s hair was sticking up in different directions as she stuck her head out into the chilly night air.

“Hello my little pixie…do you mind if I …”

“Not tonight Mikey-moe…I have a headache.” With that Maria shut the door in his face.

Michael stood there for a moment with his jaw hanging open before he tapped on the door again. The door opened a split second later and Maria stepped out onto the porch shutting the door behind her.

“Yes?” Maria drawled while she slowly shook her head side to side.

“Well…ummm…” Michael stammered as he eyed the closed door before refocusing his attention on his sweet angel’s face, “…we don’t have to do anything…er…uh…we could just cuddle.” Michael stated hopefully as he kicked a random pebble on the porch.

“Sorry Michael…not tonight…”Maria said softly as she moved towards the door but Michael caught hold of her arm.

“Maria…is there some reason why you don’t want me to come inside?” Michael inquired with a slightly hurt tone.

“Well…since you asked…it’s that time of the month again. It’s been really heavy this month and…”

Michael had long since dropped her hand and had already started backing off the front porch with his hands held up in mock surrender.

“Oh…er…sorry…sorry I asked. I guess I’ll uh…see you tomorrow then…right? Right. Okay…bye then.” With that, Michael turned on his heel and took off running towards his home.

Maria stood there for a moment before chuckling to herself. She loved how she could push Michael’s buttons…especially when she mentioned anything related to her feminine hygiene. She could always rely on her monthly cycle to send Michael running for the hills.

Well…that buys me some time. I just hope it’s enough to find out a few things before I tell him.

Sighing aloud Maria headed back indoors.


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“How dare she!” Tess hissed under her breath as she angrily shimmied out of her dress.

Bewitching Max when I was away…who does that cow think she is?!? Tess fumed as she slammed her cosmetic drawer shut.

“Is everything alright?” A masculine voice called from her bedroom.

“Everything’s fine.” Tess forcefully purred as she spritzed some perfume behind each ear and around her navel.

Just because she couldn’t have Max tonight didn’t meant that she couldn’t have a little fun with Noah, the black smith’s son. Tess felt herself growing slightly aroused as she recalled the forceful way Noah had pushed her against the pub’s crowded walls kissing her with a fervent desire as his hands alternated roaming over her voluptuous breasts and cupping her bum.

She’d have Max another time but right now there was a pulsing throb of desire between her legs that demanded Noah’s explicit attention. Blowing out the candle, Tess slinked into the bedroom.


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“Mmmmmmm…” I sighed contentedly as the delicious smells of sausage and muffins wafted to my nose, but I felt way too sleepy to attempt getting up.

“Rosemary…keep my breakfast warm for me and wake me up in an hour.” I managed to croak out as I snuggled deeper into my down-filled blankets.

Wait?!? I thought as I scrunched my face up as I tried to remember something that was prickling in the back of my mind.

The chase…

Those eyes…

The woods…

The crash…

Then…

Then…

Nothing?!?

Bursting free from the blankets, I jolted upright, however I instantly regretted it.

A dull ache throbbed throughout my head and I was forced to lie down again. Wincing, I tired to pry open my sleep filled eyes. When I finally succeeded, I was greeted with blurred images dancing before me.

“Ugh! What happened?” I said aloud as I blinked my eyes repeatedly. I soon discovered that the more I blinked the less wobbly the room became. I had almost completely righted my vision when I felt the mattress shift. I tried to muffle a small yelp as I felt an unfamiliar arm snake around my waist.

Turning ever so slowly onto my side, I tried to get a better look at my bed buddy. I had just turned my head when my bed buddy’s leg suddenly wrapped around my own.

“AHHHHHH!” I shrieked.

“AHHHHHH!” It shrieked.

Just then the bedroom door flew open with a bang startling us both.

“AHHHHHHHHHH!” We screeched in unison.

The woman who had entered the room dropped a silver tray brimming with food and different teas and fled from the room screaming.

“Rosie?!?” My bed buddy cried out as she took a few steps towards the door. She smoothed her hair down with one hand and placed the other on her hip. The striking blonde tutted over her spilled breakfast before turning her attention back to me.

“Sorry about that. I didn’t know Rosie would be coming in today.”

My mind was whirling with pain and all sorts of crazy thoughts when I once again watched the world go black.


<center>«·´¨*·.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.·*¨`·»</center>

A/N: I know it seems like Liz is a big weenie because she keeps fainting a lot...but she really isn't. She's a pretty tough cookie ... she just had a pretty crazy experience...plus she injured her noogin. So....

Ba deep ba deep ba deep...that's all folks!

[oObubblesOo]

Hello Everybody!

I'm so ashamed....I can't believe that I neglected this story for sooo long! I need to be punished severely! I hope you all don't hate me too much. I could give you a million excuses...I had family from out of town over, finals were brutal and starting school again was a little crazy...but things have settled down a bit and I finally had some time to concentrate on the story a bit. This next part is a little short....but I wanted to leave it in a certain place...BUT...I promise the next part will be longer!

:: oObubbles crosses her heart :: I hope you like this little part though...

So...without any further ado...here's Part XVI!!

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


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* SMACK *

A crimson shaped hand slowly emerged on Lizbeth’s face, as she lay unconscious on the floor.

By the gods…I think I scared her to death! The woman thought to herself as she pulled her long blonde locks away from her face. Bending over cautiously, the woman brought a tentative ear to the raven-haired girl’s lips.

Nope…not dead…she’s still breathing…

Standing upright, the woman walked over and retrieved a glass of water from her bedside table.

“Well…here goes nothing…”she muttered under her breath as she stood over the still girl’s form.

* SPLASH *


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“Mmm…Mmm” Max happily stretched as the early morning rays filtered into his room. He had just had the most tantalizing dream about his illusive maiden when the sunlight began to tug at his reluctant eyelids. Grabbing a nearby pillow, Max rolled onto his side and came face to face with Michael.

“Geez!!” Max cried out as he jumped back a bit. “How long have you been there?!?”

“Not long…a couple of hours…”

“A couple of hours?!? But…wh…why aren’t you with Maria?” Max jested jovially as he sprung out of his bed stretching the sleep from his limbs.

“She didn’t want me to stay with her…said she was…er…never mind.” Michael replied as he buried his head under a pillow.

“Come on…a woman not want you? Impossible!” Max replied laughingly as he tossed a pillow on top of Michael’s head.

“Well…at least I have a girl!” Michael retorted as he tossed the pillow back.

“Don’t worry about me Mikie my boy…I’ll have my mystery girl wrapped in my arms in no time.”

“Yeah yeah…I’ll believe it when I see it!”

“You don’t believe me?” Max replied as he tilted his bed rumpled head with laughter dancing in his eyes.

“Like I said before…every time you see her…you end up chasing her away. Who’s to say that she’s even still in town?”

Max paused for a moment as her let this new idea roll around his head for a bit. He hadn’t considered that she might go away. She couldn’t…she wouldn’t! She had to get to know him! He had to get to know her!

“I don’t think she’ll leave…she just got here…why would she leave?”

”Well…hmmm. Let’s think about this shall we. Well…there is the fact that there’s some crazy guy in town who keeps stalking her every time he sees her and puts her in awkward situations. Now…this could just be me…but those seem like good reasons to leave…don’t they?”

Max raked a nervous hand through his hair as a sheepish smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

Have I spoiled my chances before even really meeting her? Max thought as he rubbed his hands over his eyes.

“I know! I’ll ignore her…for a while at least…that way it won’t seem as if I’m obsessed with her…”

“Even though you are…” Max threw a lethal look in Michael’s direction and Michael held his hands up in mock surrender. “I’m sorry…please continue.”

“This way…instead of me going to her…she’ll come to me.”

”Right...and what if she doesn’t come to you?”

”What if she does?”

“But what if she doesn’t?”

”She will.”


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“Hey Jos! What’s with Rosie?” a voice calls from the next room as Josephine empties yet another drawer in her pursuit for smelling salts.

“I think I scared her…”Josephine calls back as she brushes a blonde lock of hair out of her face.

“Hey! Did you borrow that pink dress of mine last night after I told you not to?!?” Adelaide asks as she walks into the room.

Josephine looks up just in time to see the glass of water tumble out of her sister’s hands and splinter into a hundred pieces as it hit the floor.

“It’s her!” Adelaide hisses as she flees from the room.


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“Now where could she have gone?” Maria whispered under her breath as she lifted the bed skirt of her bed. “Come on out sweet heart…I won’t hurt you…”Maria crooned as she continued her search for her new visitor.

** …The Night Before… **

Maria was just within sight of her house last night when she noticed the injured animal laying near a tree. It had been years since she had seen a white wolf in these parts. In fact, the last white wolf she had seen was about ten years ago, just before her parents past away. Filled with curiosity she cautiously approached the injured beast.

The poor animal whimpered a bit and struggled to get back on its feet. Afraid that she might scare the animal away, Maria got on her hands and knees and slowly approached the poor wolf. Maria was only a few feet away when she noticed the large gash that went from the beast’s thigh to the middle of its stomach.

“Oh…you poor thing…”Maria softly whispered as a tear slowly slid down her cheek. She could almost feel its pain as the creature once again struggled to get on its feet. However was in so much pain that it just fell back into a heap on the floor. As she extended a hand out to the animal, a low rumbling growl sounded deep within the wolf’s belly, but it was shortly followed by a soft whine. Maria slowly stood and took a few steps backwards.

“Don’t worry honey, I’ll be right back…please don’t run away.” Maria took a few tentative steps towards the house before she took off running. Once she reached her house, she flung open the door grabbed a blanket and ran back to the wolf. It took a little while to get the animal securely onto the blanket and even longer to slowly puff her way back home with the animal nearly past out in her arms.

Please…don’t let her die…let me help her… Maria silently prayed as she kicked the door shut.

Even though she didn’t learn all of her mother’s medical wisdom, she could still recall what herbs and roots would make a soothing salve to heal the animal’s wounds. Maria was just about to apply it when Michael appeared at her door.

** …Back To The Present… **

Maria couldn’t help feel a little guilty as she continued her search for the white wolf. She had never lied to him before…and the false statement came so naturally to her lips the night before…that it slightly worried her.

I just didn’t want to worry him…that’s all… Maria reasoned as she closed her bedroom door and headed into the front room. I wasn’t cheating on him or anything…he has nothing to worry about. Maria thought as she nervously chewed her bottom lip.I hope he doesn’t think that I’m cheating on him…he knows I wouldn’t do that….doesn’t he.

“This is absurd! Why am I over analyzing this?” Maria cried as she threw her hands up to her face and shook her head as she tried to free the obnoxious thoughts from her mind. “I’m just worried about the wolf…and I’m letting this situation stress me out…come on Maria…GET A GRIP!”

Standing upright and rolling her shoulders and neck, Maria continued her search for her new house guest.


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Why is she there?!? Adelaide thought to herself as she quietly sobbed on the side of a tree. Josephine tried to run after her sister but gave up when Adelaide lost her in the brush.

As she wiped the tears from her eyes, Adelaide couldn’t help but repeat the events of last night in her mind’s eye. She could vividly see the happiness in the girl’s eyes as Max whirled her around the dance floor.

It’s so unfair! Adelaide thought angrily as she tried to shake the image from her head. “That should have been me last night! Why did she have to come and spoil everything…?” A fresh wave of sadness wrapped itself around her body as she slowly slid to the floor.

“I wish she never came here!” Adelaide whimpered as she cried softly into her arms.

“Who?”


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>

[oObubblesOo]

Hello all my fabulous readers...

I thought that I'd post this next part on a day that only comes once every four years...it makes it a little more special I think. I can't believe that I've been writing this fic for over a year already! Wow! Time really flies... but...I have my wonderful readers to thank for that...if it weren't for all of you and your feedback...then this fic would have died long ago. THANK YOU ALL!

I know I said this part was gonna be longer...and it is...but once again...I wanted to leave it in a particular place...but I will try to make the next part even longer...I promise

Well without any further ado....Part XVII! Enjoy!

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


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“Come on precious…come on out…”Maria softly crooned as she slowly pulled the table cloth up. A soft growl rumbled from the darkness and was shortly followed by a whimper.

“Come on sweetie…”Maria continued as she slowly crouched by a chair, “I just want to check your wound and put some more medicine on it.”

A soft grumble of an empty stomach was the only response Maria got. Putting her hand on her own empty belly, Maria sighed deeply as she slowly stood up.

“Okay…how about I make us a little something to eat before I check you out.”

Backing up slowly, Maria turned around and headed into the kitchen.


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* Gasp…Choke…Cough *

I sputtered as my hands flew up towards my face however on their way there they came in contact with something warm and soft.

“OW! My eye!” A woman cried.

Blinking fast to get the droplets of water off of my eyelashes, the room slowly came back into focus. Along with the room, so did the woman who now had one hand over her left eye.

“Oh! I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to…”

She held up her free hand in order to halt my apologies.

“It’s alright…I shouldn’t have been hovering so close to your face. I probably would have done the same thing.”

It took me a moment to realize I was still lying on the floor, however as soon as I tried to sit up my head began to throb.

“Ow!” I whispered as I slowly brought my hand to my aching head. I found a large lump immediately and winced audibly as soon as my fingertips brushed the bump’s surface. The bulge felt like a small volcano on the edge of my hair line, the slightest vibration or touch sent tremors of pain sweeping through my head.

“Do you wanna stand up?” The woman asked as she slowly stood up.

“Um…in a minute…I just have to wait until my head stops pounding.”

“Oh…right…the bump…let me see…”she replied as her hand carefully swept the hair from my face, “…well…the swelling went down a bit…I could put some more cream on it…”she continued as she turned her back to me.

“Oh…um…thank you…Miss…?”

“Hmmm?” The woman momentarily halted her search through countless creams and turned her sky blue eyes towards me. “Oh…my name. I’m Josephine…” She turned to continue her search, “but you can call me Josie.”

“Josie. Thank you for your hospitality and generosity.”

Finding the right jar, Josephine turned back to me and flashed me a smile.

“No problem…believe me…I know what it’s like to come stumbling home after a long night at a party.” She giggled as she knelt in front of me. “I’ve gotta be honest though…I’ve never been drunk enough to run right into a tree.”

A flush of embarrassment slowly crept up my neck and spilled onto my cheeks.

A tree!?! And here I thought someone psychotic person whacked me over the head and left me for dead. Ugh! Why do I always let my imagination get the best of me!

I was so wrapped up in my own thoughts that I hadn’t even noticed that Josephine had returned to my side.

“Now hold still…this might sting a little…”

“AHHHHHHHHHH!”


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Ok…I just gotta focus my attention else where… Max thought to himself as he strolled down the path that led to the beach. He and Michael only lived a short walk from the cliffs that led to the beach, for some odd reason they always seemed to be drawn to the crashing waves and the soft silken sands. Max couldn’t help but think that there was a connection between the sea and his mysterious past, but every time he tried to remember something…anything… prior to his arrival at Sapphire Bay he only ended up with a headache.

Now that’s interesting….the two things I would like to think about…I can’t. Max thought to himself as he neared the soft sandy trail that led to the shore. Sighing loudly, Max whipped off his shirt and rubbed his hands idly over his taut stomach.

He just needed to lose himself in the waves and allow the cool water to wash over his skin. Wanting to cheer up Michael, Max had promised to get some fresh mussels and abalone for dinner that night. Although he was completely sincere about his intentions Max couldn’t be happier for the distraction. A nice day on the beach would be the perfect thing to wipe away unnecessary thoughts about a life he couldn’t remember and a woman he’d never forget.


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Maria nibbled on some bacon as she peered at her guest out of the corner of her eye. After about half an hour of coaxing and bribing, Maria was still unable to persuade the snow white canine to come out from under the table. Unwilling to accept defeat, Maria decided to take a different approach. She tossed a few pieces of ham underneath the table and then made a small trail that lead out into the open space in the middle of the room.

It took some time, but eventually the pup cautiously began to scoot into view. It would carefully flick a piece of meat into its mouth with a quick dart of its soft pink tongue and then eye her warily for a moment. Shifting ever so slightly, Maria quickly glanced at the animal’s wound.

Curse it. The cut opened up again… She absent mindedly rolled the thin tube back and forth across the table, she hated to do it but this was the only way.

Maria waited until the animal was completely out from underneath the table before whipping around with the tube up at her lips. There was a faint whistling, and then a yelp, then the wolf was still.


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Stretching luxuriously in her satin sheets, Tess snuggled deeper into her feather pillows. She was just about to drift off to sleep again when she felt a warm body press up against her back. Scrunching her eyes tight, she willed him to get up and leave on his own accord.

Why don’t they ever learn? Doesn’t he know that nothing can ever come of this…sure he’s cute…very well endowed…and pretty good in bed…but he’s not who I want! Tess thought as she slowly opened her crystal blue eyes. Licking her lips and slowly rubbing the sleep from her eyes, Tess rolled over to face Noah.

“Noah honey…why don’t you go downstairs and get us a little something to nibble on.” Tess purred as she lightly kissed his lips.

“Well, I don’t know about you…but I think I already see what I want to nibble on…” Noah replied huskily as he rubbed his body suggestively against her while nibbling on the lobe of her ear.

Tess could already feel her nipples stiffening as Noah’s nibbles traveled from her lobes to her neck.

To hell with it…I can give him one last ride before I kick him to the curb! Tess thought as just as Noah disappeared underneath the covers.


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“So…Lizbeth…what’s the deal with you and my sister?” Josephine inquired nonchalantly as she popped another juicy section of orange into her mouth.

“I beg your pardon?”

“My sister…Adelaide…she ran out of my room in a fit when she saw you lying on my floor.”

“I’m sorry…I don’t know your sister.” I replied as I nibbled on an apple slice.

“Are you sure? She’s about my height…has deep cherry red hair…hazel eyes…does any of this ring a bell?”

“I’m sorry…we’ve never met…I’m new to town and you’re only the second person that I’ve become formally introduced to.”

“Really? Are you sure you didn’t your little bump isn’t fuzzing up your memory? Because it seemed as if she knew who you were.” Josephine continued as she ate yet another section of the orange she had in her hands.

“Nope…I’m sure of it…you and Wendy are the only people that I’ve really met here in town.”

“Huh…I wonder...maybe she thought that you were someone else. I’ll just have to ask later I guess.” Josephine continued indifferently as she swept the orange rind into her hand.

“Well…if you’re done eating…do you want me to show you around town a bit?”

“Umm…sure…that would be nice.” I replied as I rubbed my sticky hands together. “Do you have a washroom…my hands are all sticky from the melon and apple juices.”

“Yeah…just down the hall and it’s your first right.”

“Thanks…for everything…you’ve been so kind.” I replied as I smiled warmly at the young blonde.

“Don’t worry about it Liz…you can make it up to me later.”

Pausing in the hall, I turned to face Josephine.

“How do you mean.”

“Well…you’re new in town…you can tell me all about yourself and what brings you to Sapphire Bay. Heaven knows I’ve always loved a good intrigue.” Josephine giggled as she admired her reflection in a nearby mirror.

“Ah…umm…sure…why not.” I stammered as I quickly continued down the hall.

Uh oh! What am I gonna tell her?


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>


Still hiccoughing softly, Adelaide felt strangely at ease with her recent conversation. She had never met Luna before, but there was something about the girl’s warm honey colored eyes and slightly husky voice that allowed Adelaide to vent her feelings so freely.

She hadn’t used the cursed girl’s real name, mainly because she didn’t know it, but it felt good to release the gut wrenching feelings of jealousy all the same. The woman, Luna listened attentively as she smoothed Adelaide’s hair and made soft soothing noises when she felt like Adelaide needed an answer.

Luna sympathized with Adelaide’s feelings and even gave her a small blue vial of medicine to make her feel better. Right before she left, she kissed Adelaide softly on the lips and gave her a small silver whistle.

”Just blow on this when you need someone to talk to…” the mysterious woman whispered as she pressed a small metal whistle into Adelaide’s hand, “…and I’ll be there in an instant. But please, let’s keep this our little secret.” Kissing her once more, she gave a little half smile before walking into the brush.

Adelaide wasn’t quite sure how she felt about kissing another woman, it definitely was strange but she brought her fingertips to her lips and couldn’t help recall the soft feeling of Luna’s lips pressed next to hers. It took Adelaide a few minutes to snap her mind back into the present she carefully stood up and heard a soft rustling by her feet.

The whistle had slipped out of her fingers and onto the forest floor. Adelaide bent down and picked up the peculiar shaped whistle by the red silken cord it was attached to. Adelaide admired it for a moment before slipping it over her head as she walked towards her shoppe.


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>

[oObubblesOo]

Hello you guys!

I know this gets redundant...but I would like to thank all of those who post feedback...it really inspires me to continue writing. Your comments mean a lot to me!

Just a short note on this part ... I did borrow some ideas from different "Snow White" tales for this part ... however ... none come directly from any one story... but I just wanted to state this fact ... therefore avoiding any "plagerism" crap.

To answer a question from before...No Luna has not been mentioned before.

Well...there's some interesting things in this part...so I hope you all enjoy! So here's...

<center>PART XVIII</center>

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>


“Oh you poor dear…” Maria whispered as she carefully tugged the needle through yet another part of the wolf’s hide.

She was just about to wrap up the stitching session when she noticed a few stray dark hairs near the tail end of the hook-shaped wound. Maria gently pinched and plucked the hairs out of the blood matted fur and brought them up to eye level. She studied them for a moment and pondered. However, it wasn’t until she brought the hairs up to her nose that she realized who the culprit was.


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Using his shirt as a make-shift sack Max bundled up the mussels and abalone he found during his first trip out. Now a few hours later, he was just enjoying the sounds and smells of the sea. Securing the bundle with a knot, Max slowly strolled back toward the waters edge. Sighing contentedly Max laid down and reveled in the feeling of the sand grains against his skin as the gentle surf slipped in between his toes and crept up to the ticklish spot behind his knees.

With one forearm thrown over his eyes and the other resting on his lower stomach, Max slowly drifted off to sleep.


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“…and that’s how I ended up here.” I concluded as I brushed my wind tossed locks out of my face. I knew I faced a huge consequence for telling such a bold face lie, but I was hoping that the shade from the apple tree would disguise my tell-tale blush. Ever since I was a child, a faint blush of guilt would creep up into my cheeks every time I told a lie and this one was a big one. Once I felt confident the pink stain subsided a bit, I stole a quick glance at Josephine’s reaction. The look on her face told it all.

GOBSMACKED!!!

“I…um…WOW! It almost sounds like a fairytale!” She finally replied as she wiped a tear from her eye.

“Really?” I croaked weakly.

Crap! I over did it! She probably didn’t believe a word I said! Maybe it was what I said about the…

“I just can’t believe your mother…er…I mean…stepmother would do such a thing!”

”Um…which part?” I replied as I nervously twisted and untwisted a strand of hair around my finger.

“All of it!” Josephine exclaimed as she jumped to her feet and began to pace back and forth in front of me. “I mean…she was married to your father…sure he might not have always shown you his love but that’s probably because you reminded him so much of your deceased mother…and to think! Your stepmother was so jealous of your beauty and the attention you received in your town and forced you to work as a servant in your own home…and when that didn’t work she hired an assassin to kill you and…and…wanted him to cut out your heart as proof of your death! Erlack!!! How disgusting!!” She paused briefly in front of me and took my hand in hers, “Why did she want your heart again?”

For a moment I was momentarily stunned. The story sounded twice as heinous and inconceivable once Josephine recounted my lies out loud. What shocked me even more was the sincere and caring look in her eyes, I was still a little thrown that she had believed it all, but I quickly recovered my voice.

“I’m not quite sure…” I paused for a moment and licked my lips as I tried to add to the already tangled web of lies, “…but the rumors were that she believed if she ate my heart she would obtain my youth and beauty.”

“That’s monstrous! You poor dear…Do you ever think you’ll go back?”

I paused for a moment and saw Pearl Ridge in my mind’s eye. Sure I’d miss some more than others…but I had to make my own life…and in this particular moment, I wasn’t sure if that meant living out here or back within the palace walls.

“I don’t know…I haven’t decided quite yet.” I mumbled softly as I absently twisted a strand of hair around my finger.

Josephine brushed the hairs from my forehead and gently brought my head to her chest and softly smoothed my hair.

“I just can’t believe your father had no idea…”

“Hmmm…” I muttered noncommittally under my breath.

I felt emotionally drained from all the lies that poured from my mouth like water tumbling over a waterfall. They just kept coming out, one lie after another until I had wrapped myself so tightly in my imagination’s fabrications that it was too late to go back. What was even worse is that I felt bad lying to Josephine…but it was the only choice I had…I couldn’t tell her that I was a princess on the run. Although…by the way she lapped up my story…

Josephine pulled away and cupped my cheek with her hand.

“Oh!” She said suddenly as her hand dropped back to her side.

Uh oh!

“What’s wrong?”

”Well…it’s just…it’s just that…we’ve got to come up with a story.”

”A story?” I asked already growing nervous about adding more deceit to my already elaborate tale.

“Yeah…a story…Sapphire Bay isn’t exactly a small town…but gossip does spread like a brush fire. And I know exactly where we should go…come on.”

In a matter of seconds, Josephine had clasped my hand in hers and we took off down a trail.


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Adelaide absently fingered the petals of a nearby vase of blood red roses. She couldn’t help but recall the soft soothing tones of Luna’s voice and those large liquid gold eyes. Adelaide had been around flowers and herbs all of her life, but the spicy scent that clung to Luna’s body was something her olfactory senses had yet to encounter.

Shaking her mind from the memory that lingered in her mind, Adelaide stretched her limbs and walked to a display of pink and white ginger near the front of the shop. The day was early yet and the midday shoppers had yet to finish their morning chores. It would be another couple of hours before the lunchtime rush started. Fingering the small whistle, Adelaide rubbed her fingertips over its small grooved details before tucking it inside the collar of her dress.

I’ll find out later if this really works…


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Locking the door behind her, Maria set off in search of the tree that she found the wolf by. If her guess was right, then she would find evidence to prove her theory there. She wasn’t worried about the wolf it would be out for a couple of hours thus giving her plenty of time for her mini excursion.

Maria slowly rolled her neck to the left and then back to the right. She still felt a little drained from both the lying and the surgery she performed only moments ago.

I’ll tell him…once he sees that the wolf is harmless…he’ll understand… Maria thought as she pulled a small vial from the front pocket of her simple linen shift.

I just need to relax and stop overanalyzing everything. She decided as she placed small dots of the cedar oil at her temples.
“I’ll just focus on one thing at a time…and right now I just have to find that tree!” Maria stated aloud as she put the vial away and placed one foot firmly in front of the other. The faster she got there the sooner she would solve the the mystery surrounding the wolf’s wound.


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”Come on silly…hurry up!” a soft feminine voice calls out to Max.

“Hold on!” Max replies as he tries to continue his search under the bed. “I don’t remember where I left my other boot!”

“I’m leaving without you then…” The voice sings back.

“Wait! I think I found it!” He calls back as he pulls the lost boot from the dark recesses of the bed. Hopping on one foot, Max tries to balance himself as he attempts to pull on his boot and secure his trousers at the same time.

A door downstairs clicks shut just as Max leaves the room. A peal of laughter sounds from outside like a dozen small tinkling bells. A small smile tugs at the corner of Max’s lips as he bounces down the stairs.

She won’t get away so easily this time! He already knows where here secret hiding spot is.

Max opens the door and crosses the large meadow that greets him. The sun makes the grass glitter like polished emeralds as the early spring rays dance off beads of dew. The sweet smell of wildflowers invades his nostrils as Max saunters towards his love’s ‘hiding spot.’

This was going to be fun.

He had just reached the trail that lead to the hollowed tree when another girlish giggle rang out.

He had her now.

Quickening his pace Max licked his lips and raked his hands through his hair. He could already smell her. She smelled familiar yet exciting. He can already imagine the look of amusement and anticipation in her eyes.

Max reaches the opening of the old hollowed tree and pauses for a moment. He wants his eyes to adjust a bit before he plunges into the dark alcove of the enormous tree. However his impatience gets the best of him and he begins to walk forward slowly with his hands out stretched.

“Maaaaaaxxxx…” Her voice softly calls out to him teasing him to find her.

Max turns in the direction that the voice calls from and slowly takes a few steps towards it.

“Maaaaaaxxxx…” her angelic voice calls from behind him.

Smirking Max whips around and grabs at the empty air.

“Hold still…” he responds as he continues to walk with his hands outstretched. His eyes slowly adjust to the trees muted light and he searches for her lithe outline.

“But that’s no fun…” She murmurs huskily into his left ear.

Max whips around and pins his love against the wall. Her breath comes in short pants against his neck as he slowly wraps his arms around her waist.

“Max…” she murmurs just before his mouth descends on his.

Soon their simple kiss turns feverish as she parts her lips and accepts him fully. Her hands dance from his neck to his hair just as his roam up and down her back and to the fullness of her butt. He only pauses to catch his breath when he feels something cold creep up to the ticklish spot behind his knees.

“Stop tickling me…”

“I’m not. Just kiss me.”

In his half sleepy state, Max complies with the request and kisses his love deeply.

“Oh Max!” An unfamiliar voice faintly moans against his lips.

Max’s eyes pop open and he is immediately dazzled by the late afternoon’s light. Giant sun spots dance before his eyes as he holds his companion at arms distance.

“What’s wrong?” The voice continues as her fingertips drift slowly back and forth across his firm stomach muscles.

Max blinks away the spots and beholds a halo of gold and bright sky blue eyes. The woman is straddling him with her creamy hands on her curvaceous hips.

“Tess! I um…I’m so sorry…I must’ve been dreaming…” Max stammered as he held up his hands in mock surrender.

A satisfied smile spreads across her face and she brushes a loose tendril of hair from her rosy cheek. Her perky breasts almost peek out from the tight white flowing gown as she leans over and places a kiss on Max’s forehead. She grinds her body seductively against him one last time for good measure and stands.

“Thanks for the fun.” She replies as she licks her lips. Tess then turns and walks back down the beach.

Completely embarrassed, Max slaps his hands to his face and groans. He peeks between his fingers and looks off into the direction that Tess walked off to. Yup. It wasn’t just part of his dream, he had completely just made out with Tess. Max rolls over and brushes the sand from his body then grabs his sack and heads back up the trail.


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Tess idly rubbed the forearm of her left arm as she tried to get rid of the excited goose bumps that tickled her flesh as she recalled her encounter with Max. She could hardly believe her luck as she came across his sleeping form on the beach.

He even seemed to call out for her. She couldn’t resist kissing him, especially when he seemed as though he really wanted her to. For a few moments, it was just her, Max and the sea. It was too bad that he woke up when he did. She could have had some real fun and by the way Max’s body responded to her touch she was sure that he would have fun too.

She’d have to remember to thank her sister for the idea of taking a stroll on the beach.


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“Um…I don’t mean to bother you...” I sputtered between breaths as Josephine continued to pull me down the forest path, “…but could you tell me where we’re going?”

“It’s a surprise.” Josephine called over her shoulder as we continued to jog down the leafy trail. “I’m taking you to my friend’s house. She’s really sweet and she’ll know what to do!” She flashed me a smile and continued to yank me down the path.

Ugg! Why are we running?!? Is this house mobile or something! Oh well…I guess I’ll just have to see what happens… Shaking my head at Josephine’s enthusiasm to help me, I can’t help but smile and quicken my pace.


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>

[oObubblesOo]

Hello my lovely readers!

I'm sorry it has taken so long for me to get out this last part! School, work and life in general have been keeping me from working on this story. However, once I started...it was hard to stop...I hope you all like this next installment of Reluctant Royal. Thanks for the letters and messages...like I said a BA - ZILLION times before, you guys inspire me to write. THANK YOU!

Well...with no further ado...

<center>Part 19 </center>

<center>oO bubbles Oo</center>

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Stumbling for the third time in the past twenty paces, Max couldn’t help but glance one more time to see if it was true.

Yup…that’s Tess alright. I can’t believe that I attacked Tess. Ugg…I’m never gonna live this one down!

Tripping over his own feet, Max went sprawling face first into the soft dirt. Grunting with pain, Max tossed another quick glance over his shoulder in hopes that Tess didn’t see him fall.

She hadn’t.

Collecting the abalone and mussels once more, Max continued to trudge back up the trail.


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Maria had been walking a good half an hour before she reached the “scene of the crime.” Not wanting to disturb any potential “evidence,” Maria slowed her pace and only took a step once she was certain she wouldn’t upset anything.

The leaves near a section of thorny brush were still stirred up from the recent conflict. Upon closer inspection, Maria noted that there was blood dotted on several leaves and a rather large puddle next to the tree the beast had lain under. A gentle passing breeze caused the leaves to swirl in mini cyclones around Maria’s feet before settling a few paces away.

“Hmmm…what’s that smell?” Maria muttered as she titled her slightly upturned nose into the wind, “I didn’t notice that yesterday.”

Following her nose, Maria walked a dozen paces closer to the brush. It was there that she noticed the scars on the tree’s bark and the pungent aroma grew stronger.

“Ugg…Urine.” She muttered pinching her nose in hopes to block out the horrendous smell.

Convinced that her theory was right, Maria trudged deeper into the brush in order to confront the wolf’s attacker.

Approximately five hundred paces away from where she started Maria found the body of the wild boar. From the looks of it, the boar had received the worse of the attack. Digging into one of her many pockets, Maria produced a small pouch of herbs and sprinkled it on the carcass. The smell of death was quickly whisked from the air and all that remained was a small mound of flowers. Maria knew that she should have left the animal’s remains in order to frighten any others in the area away, but she just couldn’t leave it to be picked away by scavengers.

It was her own fault this happened after all. Maria had started putting up charms sometime last year when she discovered her herb garden demolished by a hungry boar. But with things going the way they had been with Michael, Maria spent less time worrying about her garden and more about what she and Michael would be doing the next time they saw each other.

Humming a little tune under her breath, the trees around her bent their boughs and allowed Maria to secure some sparkling gems on some of their lower branches. Tugging her left ear twice, the trees returned to their full heights. Maria walked back to the “crime scene,” hung a few gems and then slowly started her walk home.


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“Oh!” Josephine suddenly cried as she came to an abrupt halt.

I hardly had a chance to think when my face smashed into her shoulder. The impact sent us both flying into the sweet grass along the trail.

“OW!” I yelped as I brought my hand to my now red nose.

“Oops.” Josephine said laughingly as she brushed the dirt from her elbow. “Sorry about that.”

“Ugg…I’m beginning to think that you like hurting me on purpose.” I muttered as I slowly stood up.

“I’m sorry…it’s just that…I just remembered that I have to go do something right now. I promised Raelyn that I’d help her finish some dresses.”

“So we’re not going to your friend’s house.” I replied gently sniffing through my still tender nose.

“Oh…well…you’re still going. I’ll meet you there at dinner time.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“Sure…” She insisted and she pulled a few pieces of grass out of my hair, “…she won’t mind. I go over unannounced all the time.” By now, she has already taken a few steps backwards down the trail.

“But…WAIT…um…what if she’s not home?” I stammer uncomfortably, “Do I go back to town?”

“No…just go and wait for her inside…she won’t mind…” She replies quickly, “ …listen…I hate to do this to you…but I really got to go…just follow this path, take the first fork to the right and follow the sounds of the stream. You’ll be there in no time.” With that she turned and started running back down the path.

“But…HEY!” I cried out taking a few steps towards her fleeing form.

“Don’t worry about it!” She called over her shoulder, “You’ll like her. I’ll be there as soon as possible!”

I stood there, dumbfounded, watching her form getting smaller and smaller before something suddenly occurred to me.

“Wait! Josie! I don’t even….What’s her name?”

I had realized this just a moment to late, for Josephine was no longer in sight.

Sighing softly to myself, I played with the idea of going back into town. I might be a princess, but I’d still feel uncomfortable just walking into a stranger’s house…especially when I hadn’t been invited in the first place.

I took a few steps back towards town before turning around.

I got to stop acting like such a big baby. Josephine’s probably right. I’ll like her friend…she’ll probably like me too.

Squaring my shoulders I started back down the trail to Josephine’s friend’s house.


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Michael was still moping around when Max walked in the door however, he did perk up a little once he saw that Max’s shirt seams were nearly bursting with seafood.

“Wow…good day huh? How was the water?” Michael inquired as he took the heavy make-shift sack from Max’s tired arms.

“Huh? What girl? There wasn’t any girl.”

Michael’s eyebrows cocked in a laughing way as he placed tonight’s feast on the table.

“Girl huh? I didn’t say girl…but speaking of which…what girl are you talking about Maxie-boy?”

Max groaned inwardly once he realized what he had said.

Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! I can’t believe I just said that!

Exhaling slowly, Max darted a quick glance at Michael’s face. Michael was cupping his face in his hands as a playful smirk tugged at the corners of his mouth. His eyes twinkled with mischief as he watched Max fidget under his stare.

“Oh…it’s that good is it?” Michael crowed as he poked Max in the ribs. “Come on Maxie-boy…don’t get all shy on me now. You’re not one to get shy about the things you’ve done with women.”

Max could feel the stain of humiliation creep up his neck and settle into his cheeks. Swallowing the lump of his embarrassment in his throat Max slowly retold his story of what had happened down at the beach.

At the end of his tale, Michael was roaring with laughter.

“Tess huh? I would have never guessed she was your type!” Michael cried as he wiped the tears of laughter from the corners of his eyes.

“She’s not!” Max snapped. “She’s not even close! Like I said before, I must have reached out and grabbed her while she was walking by.”

“Uh-huh…you don’t have to make any excuses Max…I mean…Tess does have a nice body…”

“Shut-up Mike.” Max grumbled as he hid his head in his hands.

“Okay…okay…gees Max…it’s not like I want your girl…”

”She’s not my girl.” Max mumbled

“Right…I almost forgot about waterfall girl. How could I forget…speaking of which…what do you’ll think she’ll do when she finds out.”

“There’s nothing to tell…like I said…Tess isn’t my girl…it was just a mistake…”

Rubbing his aching ribs, Michael sensed that Max was no longer in the joking mood and changed the subject.

“Right…well…you know what I think…”

“What?” Max muttered under his breath.

“I think it’s a mistake to leave these beautiful mussels and abalone uneaten, how about we start dinner?”

Glad that the ribbing was over, Max moved towards the kitchen as Michael followed with seafood in hand.


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“Hello…is anyone home?” I call out softly as I land a few hesitant knocks on the sturdy wooden door. I wait momentarily clenching and unclenching my hands before raising my hand to knock again. The door is intricately carved with large ornamental blooms and twisting curlicues something was inscribed all around the door but it written in such a fashion that I couldn’t decipher what it said. A few slow minutes drag on by before I decide to sit on the steps.

“I guess no one is home.” I mutter softly under my breath. A gentle breeze sweeps past making my hair fly up around my face. It takes a moment for me to smooth my long strands back into place.

Exhaling deeply, I recline against the one of the porch’s supporting beams. Closing my eyes, I start to softly whistle a few bars of “When I think of you.”

Bump!

The sound from within the house startles me a bit as I turn to face the door. Everything seems as it was before, no sounds, just a quiet house.

I squint my eyes trying to determine whether the noise was of my own imagination or if something made it.

Settling back into my post, I start to whistle again.

Bump! Whimper. Bump!

Jumping to my feet, I reach for the knob. It felt a little wrong to burst into the house, but then again, it would be even worse to just sit outside twiddling my thumbs if someone had been injured inside. Twisting the knob, I opened the door and cautiously stepped inside.


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Eager to try out her new trinket, Adelaide closed the shoppe early. She knew she should have waited until the sun had set, but she was too anxious to care at the moment.

Adelaide walked briskly half way home before stopping in an empty meadow. The sun was still pretty high in the sky and was sending gentle beams dancing across the tall blades of sweet grass. Adelaide use to come to this meadow when she was younger. She’d spend hours upon hours just lying amongst the thigh high blooms, reading books and playing with her dolls. She couldn’t come here as often as she wanted nowadays since she had the shoppe to run and Josephine to think of.

Shaking all feelings linked with responsibility, Adelaide turned her attention to the matter at hand.

The shiny whistle in her hot little hands.

The charm dangling at the end of the scarlet rope was in the shape of a mean looking bird. The creature’s emerald green eyes seemed to glitter mischievously and its inanimate claws would snag in her hair as if eager to pierce her flesh with its needle like talons.

Closing her eyes, Adelaide brought the trinket up to her lips and blew softly.

She had scarcely finished the melodic note and opened her eyes when she came face to face with the peculiar woman from before.

Adelaide was so startled that she tumbled backwards off of the rock.

Luna smiled and watched as Adelaide struggled to upright herself with a little dignity and grace.

The raven haired woman was even more beautiful than Adelaide remembered. Her honey eyes stood out like glowing lumps of gold framed by her lush dark lashes. Her full pink lips softly curled into a smile as she watched Adelaide’s flustered attempts at standing in amusement. The simple crimson gown she wore clung to her lithe body as her long dark hair fluttered softly in the wind around her waist. If perfection did exist in human form she would be one of the top contenders for the title.

“You called?”


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Maria had just made her way back home when she noticed her front door open. Normally this wouldn’t really bother her, Michael was always stopping by unexpectedly, but he never forgot to close the front door.

Reaching for her dagger safely tucked in her pocket and Maria silently slipped inside.

She had only taken a few steps through the door when she beheld a woman with long brown hair cradling the head of the white wolf.

“HEY! What do you think you’re doing?!?”


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The sudden outburst startled me for a split second before I jerked my head angrily towards my opponent. Kai grumbled a low growl into to my lap as I sized up the armed woman. She looked familiar however her identity wasn’t my concern at the moment.

With a flick of my wrist, I whipped the letter opener from my boot and prepared to defend myself.

“What did you do to my wolf?!?”

“Your wolf? I found this animal bleeding to death in the woods after she had a run in with a wild boar!”

“How do I know you’re not lying to me?” I cried doing the best I could to keep calm.

I had scarcely fluttered an eyelash when a quick breeze of air ruffled my hair. The wild eyed blonde woman had thrown her dagger and it had landed only a petal’s breadth from my exposed calf.


<center>«•´¨*•.¸¸.* TBC *.¸¸.•*¨`•»</center>