He pulls my hand up to inspect it, flipping it this way and that, curling my fingers and extending them again. “I could probably make my handle a little slimmer for you. Would you like that?”
“What are you—huh?”
He huffs out in amusement and then leans back to grab something off a shelf I didn't notice a minute ago. It's my mug. The one that the motel owner’s sister apparently gave me.
“Anything else you want me to change about it? Is it too heavy or anything? I've got to say, I love it when you press me against your lips. It really gets me going, Devon. By the way, your name, did you know that Devon is a type of thick clotted cream from England? We couldn't be more suited for each other if we tried.You're delicious. I said that already though, didn't I? I just can't believe I'm meeting you for the first time. Can't believe this is real. My ring looks stunning on you.”
He kisses my other hand, and I notice there's a ring on my finger. I didn’t see it before, but now that he's pointed it out, I'm wondering how I missed it. It's somewhat thick and is a dead ringer for the ceramic on the mug. “When did that get there?”
“Look, a matched set.” He holds his hand up as well, and his fourth finger on his left hand is sporting an almost identical ring. His is slightly wider, though.
I laugh, because it's so absurd. “It's like we're married.”
His face turns very serious. “Devon, we are. You took me into your body; you sealed us together. Now you'll have me for the rest of your life. I know it's kind of confusing trying to figure this all out on your own, but you should know that the more you do what you did tonight, stuffing me right up in that tight little cunt of yours, the quicker my actual body will be finished for you. I’m in hibernation now, but I’m getting stronger by the minute. You’re a true wonder, love. I think you're about to wake up though. I'll see you tonight when you fall asleep.”
I'm frozen as he kisses me, giving me the sensation of hot chocolate running down my throat.
I wake up more than a little confused, feeling no small amount of shame. But that's what showers are for, right?
I tell myself not to give in to a certain temptation again, because it gave me such weird dreams. There must be an element in the hot chocolate that’s magical, something that enhances orgasms. Maybe I should go check out the spell shop and ask the owner about it. But first, maybe I should cleanse the mess between my thighs before I get a UTI.
If it was just a dream though, why does my hair get snagged on a shiny ceramic ring in the shower?
Chapter 2
Devon
All I need is some fresh air,I tell myself as I throw on a hoodie and lock my door behind me.
The cutesy little town sprawls out in front of me, families, couples, and friends meandering along the sidewalks, bundled up against the winter chill. It’s the kind of cold that nearly hurts your lungs to breathe, but no one here seems particularly bothered by it. I should be in something far warmer than a hoodie, but I never expected to stay in a mountain town through winter.
I feel like I’m going out of my mind as I start blindly walking down the street, smiling a hello at people I pass. I’m starting to recognize a few of the faces, which isn’t something I ever thought would feel comforting.
Think. What was it about my dream that disturbed me the most?
If I was a real man, you wouldn’t be having such doubts,a voice echoes through my head.
I stumble at the strength of the voice, nearly bowling over an older lady. “Sorry, I lost my balance!”
I’m definitely coming off as a bit hysterical, but I don’t know how to tone that down at the moment.
“It’s alright dear. Are you okay? You’re new here, aren’t you?”
“I…” How do I say that I’m only visiting but thinking that maybe not at the same time?
“Oh! I know, you’re that lovely lady my mug wanted, aren’t you? Splendid! Please, come with me. We have much to discuss. You must have so many questions.”
She laughs as she folds her hand into my elbow, humming under her breath as we go. “Chip has been waiting so long to find you. I almost dropped him when he alerted me, because I was so excited to get him to you! You’ll make a lovely couple.”
I walk about twenty more steps before I find my voice. “I have no idea what you're talking about. Who is Chip?”
She laughs like I just told the funniest joke in the world. “Yes, I can see why he was besotted with you. You have the exact same sense of humor. I'm Lenore, by the way. It's a pleasure to meet you. I own the spell shop here in town, and I'll be your go-to if you have any trouble with him. You really shouldn't though, he's as devoted as they come. Here we are!”
She unlocks a door to a small shop, and I’m immediately ensconced by the warmth of it. Inside, it smells earthy and fresh at the same time, with candlelight and dark colors making it feel cozy.
“This is great. How long have you owned it? You must be proud of it.”
“Oh, about 500 years, give or take. It's changed a lot over the years of course. Yes. I'm very proud of it. Come on in; I’d offer you a warm beverage, but I don't want Chip to think you're stepping out on him!” She titters again like that's a joke, and I have a sinking gut feeling that it’s not as funny as it should be.
