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<<nobr>><<audio "romance" stop>> <<set $sa = false; $pos = "unknown"; $cookgame = "unknown"; $encourage to false; $sock to false; $food to 0; $meat to false; $gl_chris to false; $gl_roe to false; $gl_fj to false; $gl_syd to false; $gl_death to false; $gl_rahim to false>> <</nobr>> //Journey into a slightly AU story. Your group is still as amazing as ever, but the constant fear of being hunted has never been a thing. You are all specialists and hunters, taking jobs wherever you can and living your best life without the fear of the apocalypse looming so close.// //With Thanksgiving so close, the crew decides to have their own feast. But who will make the cut? Will the day end in happiness or as a total disaster? // There are 4 possible endings to get dealing with the dinner. Each has to do with choices made throughout the story and who you invite to the table. Can you collect all of them? //Note: In order to make sure ''all'' stats reset themselves. Restart the game.// [[Play the Game]] [[Credits]]
© 2020 Bum Studios | 13Leagues ~~Version 1.0 //Thankful for You// is a short story existing in the Superstition series. It contains strong language and sexual content, as well as trigger warnings dealing with - and thus is rated 18+. Reader discretion is advised.~~
<<set $name to "Unknown">> <<set $gender to "Unknown">> <<set $showec to false>> <<set $sex to "na">> <<set $trans to false>> <<set $pos to "unknown">> <<set $wha to false>> <<set $encourage to false>> <<set $sa to false>> <<set $td_yes to false>> <<set $cookgame to "unknown">> <<set $sock to false>> <<set $food to 0>> <<set $meat to false>> <<set $noone to false>> <<set $gl_chris to false>> <<set $gl_roe to false>> <<set $gl_fj to false>> <<set $gl_syd to false>> <<set $gl_death to false>> <<set $gl_rahim to false>> <<set $first_visit to true; $second_visit to true>> <<set $visit_chris to false; $visit_roe to false; $visit_fj to false; $visit_syd to false; $visit_death to false; $visit_rahim to false>> <<cacheaudio "theme" "audio/sleeping_peacefully.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "theme2" "audio/inspirational_piano.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "turkeyday" "audio/hopeful.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "romance" "audio/sexy_ambient.mp3">> <<createplaylist "theme">> <<track "theme" volume 0.40>> <<track "theme2" volume 0.40>> <</createplaylist>>
Hey, you! Yes, you, you amazing person! Thank you for your support. Thank you so much! Stay safe and healthy out there! All images, unless otherwise stated, are copyright by Bum Studios Productions LLC. All audio is licensed under Bum Studios Productions LLC and courtesy of AudioBlocks and Envato. Copyright infringement is punishable by law. The book at the beginning is //The Count of Monte Cristo// by Alexandre Dumas. CG Art done by [[Grigoriy Romanov aka Everybery.|https://www.deviantart.com/everybery]]. For access to art you must be of the Sailing Master ($10) or First Mate ($20) tier. Background Art by Image by [[Rebekka D|https://pixabay.com/users/castleguard-2970404/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=1776746]] at Pixabay <<return>>
[[Endings]] [[Credits]]
<a href="https://13leaguestories.tumblr.com/"><img src="images/logo.png"></a>
Before you begin, let's get the important information out of the way first. Please state your name. <<textbox "$name" "" autofocus>><<button "Enter">><<replace "#name">>Nice to meet you, $name.<</replace>><</button>> <span id="name"></span> [[Next->Gender]]
Choose your pronouns. <<link 'Your intended pronouns.'>> <<pronouns>> <</link>> And now your gender? [[Male.|EC][$gender = "male"]] [[Female.|EC][$gender = "female"]] [[Nonbinary.|EC][$gender = "nonbinary"]] [[Transgender Female.|EC][$trans = true; $gender = "female"]] [[Transgender Male.|EC][$trans = true; $gender = "male"]]
This story contains mature content that will be rated M or 18+. Within this paragraph are two options regarding the visibility of the material. If you choose to [[Show Explicit Content|FurtherEC][$showec to true]] then the material will appear if further prompted by the reader. If you wish to not see this content, then please choose [[Hide Explicit Content|Start]].
Due to the specifics of the explicit scenes, more information is needed to tailor the experience just for you. You can either choose the genitalia your character possesses below or not. If you do not wish to disclose this information then the scenes will be adjusted accordingly. [[My genitalia is a penis.|Start][$sex = "p"]] [[My genitalia is a vagina.|Start][$sex = "v"]] [["No thanks, I don't wish to disclose this information."|Start]]
Great! Here we go, I hope you enjoy. Press the title image below to start the game. <<message 'Click here for further tips'>>\ <ul>\ <li>The guest list doesn’t just change the speeches at the end but also the flavor, giving you different conversations.</li> <li>There are three possible romance routes with Rahim: vanilla, dom, and sub. Unlike other stories, this choice will only matter at the end.</li> </ul>\ <</message>>\ [img[images/title.png][Intro]]
<<nobr>><<audio "theme" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.45>><</nobr>> //“There is something true in what you say,” said the count, with that smile which made him so handsome; “I have descended from a planet called grief.” -- “I believe all you tell me without questioning its meaning; for instance, you told me to live, and I did live; you told me to hope, and I almost did so. I am almost inclined to ask you, as though you had experienced death, ‘is it painful to die?’”// I hum more to myself than to Rahim as his rich baritone voice fills my ears as he reads. I wasn’t listening to the words he was saying so much as I was focused on his voice. The rise and fall. The bits of emotion he added to exaggerate whatever he was reading. I sigh, burrowing myself farther … [[… into his chest and lap.][$pos = "lap"]] [[… into the seat.][$pos = "seat"]] [[… into his shoulder.][$pos = "side"]]
… burrowing myself deeper into his chest and lap, relishing not only the subtle warmth he was letting off but also the way his chest reverberated whenever he spoke. “Oof,” he chuckles, “are you done listening?” “What makes you think that?” I ask, my eyes starting to close, fluttering open a second later before giving up the fight once again. “You seem like you’re fighting a losing battle. You sure you don’t just want to take a nap or something?” The day had been exciting enough. None of us had gotten any sleep due to the hunt we had been on, pursuing the target for a few days on end. In a span of a few hours, we had eliminated the mark, got paid, and then flew back here. I hadn’t seen or heard of the others since we got back, which was shocking in itself since it wasn’t like we were in the bedroom. We had parked ourselves right in the living room, and no one has yet to disturb us. [[“Maybe a quick nap.”]] [[“No, keep reading.”]] [[“Honestly, I’m listening to your voice.”]]
… pressing myself farther into the seat in which we sat. The lounge chair was thankfully large enough to fit both of us. Rahim resides in my lap, his body resting against mine flawlessly. “Are you good?” he questions, moving his head just a bit, but I surmise that even he was too comfortable to actually move enough to look at me. “Yea, why?” I ask, my eyes starting to close, fluttering open a second later before giving up the fight once again. “You seem like you’re fighting a losing battle. You sure you don’t just want to take a nap or something?” The day had been exciting enough. None of us had gotten any sleep due to the hunt we had been on, pursuing the target for a few days on end. In a span of a few hours, we had eliminated the mark, got paid, and then flew back here. I hadn’t seen or heard of the others since we got back, which was shocking in itself since it wasn’t like we were in the bedroom. We had parked ourselves right in the living room, and no one has yet to disturb us. [[“Maybe a quick nap.”]] [[“No, keep reading.”]] [[“Honestly, I’m listening to your voice.”]]
… nestling myself closer into his shoulder, my cheek rubbing against his smooth skin. Even with us as close as we were now, my leg draped over his, my arms around his waist, and my head on his shoulder, I still wished to be closer. “Everything alright?” “Never better, why?” I ask, my eyes starting to close, fluttering open a second later before giving up the fight once again. “You seem like you’re fighting a losing battle. You sure you don’t just want to take a nap or something?” The day had been exciting enough. None of us had gotten any sleep due to the hunt we had been on, pursuing the target for a few days on end. In a span of a few hours, we had eliminated the mark, got paid, and then flew back here. I hadn’t seen or heard of the others since we got back, which was shocking in itself since it wasn’t like we were in the bedroom. We had parked ourselves right in the living room, and no one has yet to disturb us. [[“Maybe a quick nap.”]] [[“No, keep reading.”]] [[“Honestly, I’m listening to your voice.”]]
“Maybe a quick nap will do me some good,” I state, and a yawn soon follows it, “will you stay?” <<if $pos is "seat">>\ I begin to play in his hair, combing my fingers through it as my head droops back. I get lost in the soft texture, not even listening for whatever answer he gives me. <<elseif $pos is "lap">>\ I begin to trace circles along his skin, an absentmindedness to the actions as I simply stare on. I was far more focused on the feel of his skin than what I was doing or even the answer he had just given me. <<else>>\ “I don’t think I have much of a choice,” he laughs, the sound warming my insides, “unless you’re going to get up.” <</if>>\ “Yea, that’s not going to happen,” I say, turning just enough to wrap my arms around him and to inhale his subtle scent. I feel my fight against sleep weaken just as the door opens, and Bradley’s voice fills the large room. The potential for rest hangs in the air, slowly dispersing until it’s no longer a possibility. Just some mere thought that I once had. <a data-passage="TY1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“No, no,” I argue, “keep reading.” “I have a feeling you don’t even remember what I’m reading.” “Uh,” I sigh, summoning up all my energy to move just enough to see the cover, “//The Count of Monte Cristo//.” He rolls his eyes, fighting a smile. Doing as I had previously asked; he starts to read again. //“Monte Cristo looked upon Morrel with indescribable tenderness. “Yes,” he said, “yes, doubtless it is painful, if you violently breaking the outer covering which obstinately begs for life. If you plunge a dagger into your flesh, if you insinuate a bullet into your brain, which the least shock disorders, -- then certainly, you will suffer pain, and you will repent quitting a life for a repose you have brought at so dear a price.”// I feel my fight against sleep weaken just as the door opens, and Bradley’s voice fills the large room. The potential for rest hangs in the air, slowly dispersing until it’s no longer a possibility. Just some mere thought that I once had. <a data-passage="TY1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Honestly,” I chuckle, “I’m more so listening to your voice than what you’re reading.” “Ah, surprise, surprise,” he laughs, “//The Count of Monte Cristo// not interesting enough for you?” “It’s not that. But when something is fighting for my attention, then you’re always going to win out. Call it a weakness,” I state, shrugging my shoulders, trying to catch and quell my yawn but failing. “Definitely calling that a strength,” Rahim chuckles, <<if $pos is "seat">>turning his head just enough so that he could place a kiss on my chest,<<else>>placing a kiss on the top of my head,<</if>> “now you see how I feel all the time.” I feel my fight against sleep weaken just as the door opens, and Bradley’s voice fills the large room. The potential for rest hangs in the air, slowly dispersing until it’s no longer a possibility. Just some mere thought that I once had. <a data-passage="TY1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“It’s not that interesting anyway,” Chris huffs, noticing us and our position and blushing, mouthing an apology. “But I’ve never celebrated Turkey Day,” Bradley whines. “Turkey Day?” Rahim questions, brow raised. He closes his book and exchanges a look with me. That moment of peace was over, it would seem. “What’s Turkey Day?” “A better name for Thanksgiving,” Bradley begins to explain, “because Thanksgiving is named after a sham and fuck Christopher Columbus and the pilgrims. Am I right?” Chris chuckles but shakes his head, placing the bags he was carrying on the coffee table, “I’m not a fan of the idea. In fact, out of all the holidays, I hate that one the most.” “You loved it when we celebrated it,” I point out, and he rolls his eyes. “When me and you sat around eating cheap-ass Lunchables and making fun of stupid holiday movies, sure. But I didn’t consider that actual Thanksgiving. That holiday was just another excuse for my dad to sit at a table and lord himself over people who were too compliant to disagree. I had way more fun at the kid’s table. At least they had coloring books.” “I bet you didn’t even know how to color in the lines,” Bradley says, poking Chris’s cheek and having his hand swatted away. “We can make a new tradition!” he exclaims, “come on.” Chris frowns, and Rahim looks a bit doubtful, both of their faces causing Bradley to huff. “Fine. We’ll put it to a vote. I vote yes.” “No, from me,” Chris sighs, something we could’ve all guessed. [[“I’m in.”][$td_yes = true]] [[“Count me out.”]]
“I’m in,” I say with a shrug, chuckling when Bradley prompts me to fist bump him, “he’s right. Might as well make a new tradition and get fat in the process. So, why not?” “Rahim?” Bradley asks, but even I could tell Rahim was undecided. His frown and the way he refused to meet our eyes, though, made me feel that there was something else going on. “Let’s go see what the others say,” Rahim suggests. Bradley gazes around as if they would magically appear, “where are they?” “Haven’t heard anything from them since we got back, so they’re probably out back,” Rahim answers, there being no indication on his face about what he thought so far. <<if $pos is "seat">>\ I pat Rahim’s shoulders, waiting for him to rise so that I could also move and follow behind the other two. “No,” he whines, “let’s stay here. They can handle that by themselves.” I snuggle into him, once again letting his warmth encapsulate me. “You know if we sit here, they’re just going to come back and make themselves at home in the living room.” He’s quiet for a minute before growling, “next time, I’m locking us in one of our rooms.” He gets to his feet and turns to help me up, holding my hand as we walk outside. <<else>>\ I move to get up when Rahim grabs my hand and pulls me back down, wrapping his arms around me. There’s a stubborn and determined scowl on his face as he watches Chris and Bradley’s figures grow farther away. “Someone’s grumpy,” I tease, and he rolls his eyes, giving no answer. “As much as I’d love to stay right here,” I begin to tell him, cradling his cheek and pressing a thoughtful kiss to the corner of his eye, “if we don’t go out there, they’ll come in here.” He groans but agrees, finally moving so that both of us could stand. He grabs my hands, and we both walk outside. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TY2"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Count me out. It’s a stupid holiday, we could do literally anything else, and it’ll be much more meaningful.” Chris mouths a thank you to me while Bradley narrows his eyes. “Rahim?” Bradley asks, but even I could tell Rahim was undecided. His frown and the way he refused to meet our eyes, though, made me feel that there was something else going on. “Let’s go see what the others say,” Rahim suggests. Bradley gazes around as if they would magically appear, “where are they?” “Haven’t heard anything from them since we got back, so they’re probably out back,” Rahim answers, there being no indication on his face about what he thought so far. <<if $pos is "seat">>\ I pat Rahim’s shoulders, waiting for him to rise so that I could also move and follow behind the other two. “No,” he whines, “let’s stay here. They can handle that by themselves.” I snuggle into him, once again letting his warmth encapsulate me. “You know if we sit here, they’re just going to come back and make themselves at home in the living room.” He’s quiet for a minute before growling, “next time, I’m locking us in one of our rooms.” He gets to his feet and turns to help me up, holding my hand as we walk outside. <<else>>\ I move to get up when Rahim grabs my hand and pulls me back down, wrapping his arms around me. There’s a stubborn and determined scowl on his face as he watches Chris and Bradley’s figures grow farther away. “Someone’s grumpy,” I tease, and he rolls his eyes, giving no answer. “As much as I’d love to stay right here,” I begin to tell him, cradling his cheek and pressing a thoughtful kiss to the corner of his eye, “if we don’t go out there, they’ll come in here.” He groans but agrees, finally moving so that both of us could stand. He grabs my hands, and we both walk outside. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TY2"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
We walk outside, the cool autumn breeze hitting us immediately while the sun warms our skin. The spectacular colors of fall take my breath away, causing me to pause and appreciate the warmth before continuing on. We easily spot the other three down the trail, sitting on the short dock leading to the lake. Zillah is reclined back on a lounge couch, Amari close by painting his nails a dazzling gold that matches that of the shifting leaves. [[Sydero sits nearby, her head in Amari’s lap as she looks at her phone.][$sa = true]] [[Sydero sits on a nearby chair, absentmindedly looking at her phone.]]
The way Amari was sitting, it allowed Sydero to rest her head in the vaewolf’s lap without impeding her. I was more shocked that Sydero wasn’t competing with Zillah for Amari’s attention, an action that wasn’t rare. “Guys, we have a big question to ask,” Bradley shouts, “which of you are in favor of celebrating Turkey Day?” “Ooh, I never celebrated that holiday,” Amari starts, her eyes widening as she pauses her work, “the most I was able to see was when I ran around in my dog form and saw people around the table. I’m in!” <<if $sa>>\ “Whelp, there goes my answer,” Sydero sighs, “the puppy’s never celebrated it, and though I think the holiday is fucking ridiculous, who am I to say no?” Amari leans down and plants a kiss on Sydero’s forehead, causing her to smirk in victory. <<else>>\ “Yea, no –,” Sydero starts, but Bradley puts on his best pouting face. “Please, Sydero. I never celebrated it. And … you guys are my family.” Her eye twitches, “I was going to say yea, no way we’re not celebrating it.” <</if>>\ “Wow,” Chris sighs, “the one time I depend on you, and you still manage to let me down.” “Chris, I would agree purely because I know you’re against it,” she smirks, and the two flip each other off. We turn our attention to Zillah. He nods, not seeming to care much either way, “sounds disgusting, and I really don’t know what this turkey thing is but whatever, sure.” <a data-passage="TY3"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Sydero sits backward on a nearby lounge chair, her legs resting against the reclined part of the chair where her back should be. She stares at her phone with a blank look. I can’t necessarily see what she’s looking at from her current angle, but I suspect it was something boring. “Guys, we have a big question to ask,” Bradley shouts, “which of you are in favor of celebrating Turkey Day?” “Ooh, I never celebrated that holiday,” Amari starts, her eyes widening as she pauses her work, “the most I was able to see was when I ran around in my dog form and saw people around the table. I’m in!” <<if $sa>>\ “Whelp, there goes my answer,” Sydero sighs, “the puppy’s never celebrated it, and though I think the holiday is fucking ridiculous, who am I to say no?” Amari leans down and plants a kiss on Sydero’s forehead, causing her to smirk in victory. <<else>>\ “Yea, no –,” Sydero starts, but Bradley puts on his best pouting face. “Please, Sydero. I never celebrated it. And … you guys are my family.” Her eye twitches, “I was going to say yea, no way we’re not celebrating it.” <</if>>\ “Wow,” Chris sighs, “the one time I depend on you, and you still manage to let me down.” “Chris, I would agree purely because I know you’re against it,” she smirks, and the two flip each other off. We turn our attention to Zillah. He nods, not seeming to care much either way, “sounds disgusting, and I really don’t know what this turkey thing is but whatever, sure.” <a data-passage="TY3"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Chris throws his hands up and looks to Rahim, “please tell me you’re not going to agree.” “Does it matter?” he asks, “whether I say yes or no, the majority still chose it.” “Yea, I don’t care. I just need to hear you say no.” “No.” “Thank you. Thank you so much. <<if $td_yes>>At least I have Rahim on my side<<else>>At least I have Rahim and $name on my side<</if>>,” Chris grumbles before stomping away. “Exactly what does this holiday consist of?” Amari asks, peering up at me and then at Bradley, hoping one of us would give her an answer. “You mean besides trying to put yourself into a food coma?” Sydero snorts. [[“It’s all about the food.”]] [[“It’s about family and friends.”]] [[“I have no clue what it’s about.”][$wha = true]]
“You buy a butt load of food that you won’t eat. Then you get fat, you sleep for about a week, and then you wait until Christmas rolls around so that you can do it all over again,” I tell her. She’s just about to reply when Bradley smacks my arm, “that’s not it, and you know it.” “Isn’t it?” “No. The food part is just to bring people together. You know like the saying 'good food and great company'. It’s about being around those you love and, like the shitty name implies, being thankful.” “Excuse me,” I huff with a broad smile, “which one of us actually celebrated this holiday again?” “About that,” Rahim starts, his attention on Bradley, “your parents never celebrated the holiday with you? Weren’t you at least ten when they were taken from you?” Bradley’s smile grows so broad that it threatens to take over his face. He doesn’t answer Rahim, or our questioning gazes as he begins walking back up towards the house. “One of these days, we’re going to stop being played by him,” Sydero sighs. I shake my head, “yea, I don’t think so. He’ll be thirty years old and still giving us a run for our money.” <a data-passage="TY4"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“It’s all about spending time with family and friends. Being thankful that you have them.” “Okay then,” Amari begins, “but why is one day just dedicated to that?” “Because we live in a capitalistic society where the market tells us that we must spend money and adhere to expensive traditions to fit in and be ‘normal’,” Bradley answers, performing air quotes around the word normal. “Then why do you want to do it so badly?” “Because even I am not immune to propaganda.” He spins around on his heel and heads back up towards the house, walking in a weird way that garners all of our attention. “I’ve seen those shorts,” Zillah randomly adds in. <a data-passage="TY4"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I actually have no clue what it’s about. I never celebrated it and barely ever heard of it.” “How have you never heard of it?” Bradley asks. “I don’t know, maybe because I’m not American,” I wink, causing the entire group to give me a look. “Jokes on you, other countries celebrate Thanksgiving too. Might be a different name and date but it’s celebrated.” “Ever think maybe I’m from one of the countries that don’t?” “Wait!” Sydero shouts, pointing an accusatory finger at me, “you’re not from America?” “I didn’t say I wasn’t. Didn’t say I was.” “That’s it,” Amari growls, getting to her feet and rushing back up towards the house, screaming over her shoulder, “I’m asking Chris.” Zillah and Sydero are close behind her, Bradley growling as he follows. <a data-passage="TY4"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
There are 5 possible endings to get dealing with the dinner. Each has to do with choices made throughout the story and who you invite to the table. Each ending also has it's own personalized speech made by Rahim. <<message 'Show all possible endings and how to get them.'>>\ <ul>\ <li>''Family Doesn’t End with Blood'': Only invite the gang and/or Faye & Jeff.</li> <li>''We’re Going to Need a Bigger Table'': Invite everyone on the list.</li> <li>''Daddy Issues with a Side of Stuffing'': Invite Death, Michael, Ryan, and Lust.</li> <li>''Food Fight!'': Get the wrong ingredients for the dinner. (Note: if you get all the wrong ingredients, it will always take precedence over the other endings.)</li> <li>''Default Ending'': If none of the other requirements are met then you will find yourself with this ending.</li> </ul>\ <</message>>\ <<return>>
My attention finally returns to Rahim, who seems stuck in his own mind. Times like this, I wish my abilities extended to empathy. At least then, I could feel what he was feeling. As it stands right now, I was only able to guess. This meant that I relied more on facial tics and just my general knowledge of Rahim and his moods. “Penny for your thoughts?” I say, bumping his shoulder, “you’ve been quiet ever since Bradley and Chris brought up the idea.” “I heard about this holiday here and there. But I never really celebrated it. Between my sister and me constantly warring, my mother’s safety, and my dad being well … my dad, family never really seemed all that important. If anything, family was the thing that I wanted to avoid the most.” “And you still feel that way?” “Should I?” he questions, his eyes searching mine. He points towards the house, “Sydero and I are better, obviously. But what about the rest?” He sighs and shakes his head. “I’m mainly talking about my dad.” He runs his hand down his face, “nevermind.” “No, come on,” I grab his hand, and we walk to a nearby table. He sits on the bench while I park myself on the flat surface of the table, and I wait for him to continue. “It’s just, Chris got me thinking when he was talking about why he hates it. We’ll be able to invite whoever we want, right?” “We’re putting it on, so I see no reason why we can’t be in charge of the guest list.” “Yea, should I even invite my dad? Would he even come if I did?” He buries his face in his hands. <a data-passage="TY5"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I frown, “Rahim, something tells me that this is more than, ‘should I invite my dad?’ If you didn’t want to or if you only felt like you should because you were obligated, then we wouldn’t be having this discussion. Do … do you want to invite him?” “Yes,” he groans, getting up and pacing back and forth, “but I know how stupid that is. It’s just … something keeps saying that I’d be mad for not trying. What do you think?” [[“It doesn’t matter what I think.”][$encourage = true; $gl_rahim = true]] [[“Invite him.”][$encourage = true; $gl_rahim = true]] [[“Don’t invite him.”]]
“It doesn’t matter what I think. This is up to you. If you want to invite him, even if you think you’re going to regret it, then do it. If you think it’s wrong too, then don’t. You have to make this decision.” “The one decision I refuse to make, and you don’t even want to help me,” he snorts, a light smile appearing and reassuring me that he was just joking. “You’re right. I’ll figure it out … hopefully.” I grab his hands, “either way, whatever you choose, I’m here for you. Whether that means we have to get through a whole dinner with your dad or through one without him.” Rahim leans in and kisses my forehead, wrapping his arms around me as he breathes me in. He pulls back with a playful grin, “I don’t even want to imagine what you would do if he did get on your nerves.” [[“I’d just kick him out.”]] [[“I’ve always wanted to fight an archangel.”]] [[“Kill him with kindness.”]] [[“That’s what I have Amari and Sydero for.”]]
“I say invite him. What’s the worst that can happen?” “I don’t want to answer that,” he smiles. “What I really mean is not inviting him will always have you asking, ‘what if.’ Inviting him, whether it’s good or bad, will at least give you an answer.” He kisses my forehead, “you’re right, and I’ll keep thinking about it.” I grab his hands, “either way, whatever you choose, I’m here for you. Whether that means we have to get through a whole dinner with your dad or through one without him.” Rahim leans in and kisses my forehead, wrapping his arms around me as he breathes me in. He pulls back with a playful grin, “I don’t even want to imagine what you would do if he did get on your nerves.” [[“I’d just kick him out.”]] [[“I’ve always wanted to fight an archangel.”]] [[“Kill him with kindness.”]] [[“That’s what I have Amari and Sydero for.”]]
“You said it yourself; a large part of you is warning you against it. It’s not like this would be the first time. You’ve tried so many times in the past to give your dad a chance and, correct me if I’m wrong, but it never ends well.” “Yea,” he says, trailing off, “you’re right there.” I grab his hands, “either way, whatever you choose, I’m here for you. Whether that means we have to get through a whole dinner with your dad or through one without him.” Rahim leans in and kisses my forehead, wrapping his arms around me as he breathes me in. He pulls back with a playful grin, “I don’t even want to imagine what you would do if he did get on your nerves.” [[“I’d just kick him out.”]] [[“I’ve always wanted to fight an archangel.”]] [[“Kill him with kindness.”]] [[“That’s what I have Amari and Sydero for.”]]
“I’d just kick him out, simple and to the point.” He laughs as he takes a step back to look at me, “forgive me. I’m having a hard time picturing you just kicking my father, one of //the// archangels, out of the house.” “What? Is he going to just burn it down as he throws a temper tantrum?” “No, I just find it hard to imagine. Funny, but hard to imagine regardless.” “Come on,” he yawns, “I’d rather turn in for the night.” I raise a brow, glancing over towards the sun that was still taking its time in its descension. I don’t try and guess the time. With the time shift, it was probably far earlier than I would assume. “You mean day?” “Shut up, I’m an old man right now,” he snickers, grabbing me and pulling me close as we head towards his bedroom. <a data-passage="TY6"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Well,” I shrug, “I’ve always wanted to fight an archangel.” “Have you now?” he questions with a smirk and a raised brow. “Yea. I’ve fought a Prince –” “And you barely won that fight. Or do you not remember?” “No one likes a cynic, Rahim. I was still learning how to use and master my abilities.” He laughs, just fight Sydero or me. High-balanced, we’re almost as powerful as our counterparts.” “And full?” He places a lingering kiss on my forehead, “I pray that you never see the answer to that question, Kudu.” “Come on,” he yawns, “I’d rather turn in for the night.” I raise a brow, glancing over towards the sun that was still taking its time in its descension. I don’t try and guess the time. With the time shift, it was probably far earlier than I would assume. “You mean day?” “Shut up, I’m an old man right now,” he snickers, grabbing me and pulling me close as we head towards his bedroom. <a data-passage="TY6"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I’ll just kill him with kindness, the quickest way to down any foe.” “You’d think you’d use that on Raum then,” Rahim counters, and I move to hit him. He dodges out of the way, throwing me a lopsided grin. “Raum is an exception.” “But if it’s to –,” he’s unable to finish his sentence as I get up and lunge at him, refusing to let him finish. He darts around the table and to the docks with me hot on his heels, always just barely evading my grasp. “I yield,” he finally states, catching his breath as he laughs, but I’m already upon him. I tackle him to the ground, and the two of us wrestle. I quickly gain the upper hand and pin him to the ground, looking down at him with a superior smirk. “Would you look at that,” he says between chuckles and lazy kisses, “you got me down and didn’t use kindness.” I roll my eyes and rise off of him, helping him up. “Come on,” he yawns, “I’d rather turn in for the night.” I raise a brow, glancing over towards the sun that was still taking its time in its descension. I don’t try and guess the time. With the time shift, it was probably far earlier than I would assume. “You mean day?” “Shut up, I’m an old man right now,” he snickers, grabbing me and pulling me close as we head towards his bedroom. <a data-passage="TY6"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I’m not a fan of violence,” I say in a mock superior voice, “so that’s where Amari and Sydero come in.” “Amari hates violence,” he points out. “Yea, but if I tell her that someone was bullying me, she’ll jump on their case faster than Bradley would a politician.” “And Sydero?” he questions, not needing my answer as we both say it at the same time, “would just fight him for the heck of it.” “Come on,” he yawns, “I’d rather turn in for the night.” I raise a brow, glancing over towards the sun that was still taking its time in its descension. I don’t try and guess the time. With the time shift, it was probably far earlier than I would assume. “You mean day?” “Shut up, I’m an old man right now,” he snickers, grabbing me and pulling me close as we head towards his bedroom. <a data-passage="TY6"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
We hear the others shouting at one another from the living room but make no move to investigate. Once we make it to his room, Rahim wastes no time in proving to me just how sleepy he really was. He takes off his shirt and climbs into bed. He releases yet another yawn and lazily pats the space beside him. “You got my favorite shirt stashed away in here?” I ask, stripping as I gaze for the teal baggy plaid shirt that I had practically stolen from him. It just meant so much more when the shirt you steal is your boyfriend’s favorite. “I’m still highly conflicted about you wearing that,” Rahim grumbles, moping from his spot in bed, “I really liked that shirt.” [[“Would you rather it off?”]] [[“Yea, I do too.”]] [[“Your fault for having good taste.”]]
“That was such a build-up,” I laugh, placing a kiss on the tip of his nose. I’m about to pull back when his hands grab my cheeks and pull me back towards him, kissing me deeply. It’s deep and emotional, a similar feeling to most of his kisses. It was always like he was laying out his emotions right there on a table for me. Or baring his heart, caring nothing for how vulnerable it led him into being. “Something on your mind?” I question, and he shakes his head as he pulls me closer. “Sometimes, I just truly forget how lucky I am. That I’m the one who gets to receive your affections. That when I pull back,” he does so, and again my heart aches at the raw emotion reflected in his eyes, “I’m the one who gets to look into those beautiful eyes. I don’t think you’ll ever understand how much I cherish you, Hayati.” “If it’s anything like what I feel for you, then I think I do.” He claims my lips, biting down on my lower lip softly before pulling on it with his teeth. [[Just cuddle.]] [[Straddle him.]] [[Motion for him to straddle me.]]
I let out a breathless laugh, giving him a quick but needy kiss. “So are you,” I say right as I pull away. He places his hands on my cheeks and pulls me back towards him, eliminating the small space that I had created in order to speak. He kisses me deeply. One so deep and emotional that I get lost within it as soon as it begins. It was always like he was laying out his emotions right there on a table for me. Or baring his heart, caring nothing for how vulnerable it led him into being. “Something on your mind?” I question, and he shakes his head as he pulls me closer. “Sometimes, I just truly forget how lucky I am. That I’m the one who gets to receive your affections. That when I pull back,” he does so, and again my heart aches at the raw emotion reflected in his eyes, “I’m the one who gets to look into those beautiful eyes. I don’t think you’ll ever understand how much I cherish you, Hayati.” “If it’s anything like what I feel for you, then I think I do.” He claims my lips, biting down on my lower lip softly before pulling on it with his teeth. [[Just cuddle.]] [[Straddle him.]] [[Motion for him to straddle me.]]
I rest my forehead on his, trying to control the beating of my heart. He had a tendency to make me feel like I was the most loved being in the world. Probably because, in all actuality, I was. The pure admiration that I felt for him was unrivaled. If anything, it hurt how much I adored him. How much I craved to have him close and just be swept away in his presence. It was always like he was laying out his emotions right there on a table for me. Or baring his heart, caring nothing for how vulnerable it led him into being. “Something on your mind?” I question, and he shakes his head as he pulls me closer. “Sometimes, I just truly forget how lucky I am. That I’m the one who gets to receive your affections. That when I pull back,” he does so, and again my heart aches at the raw emotion reflected in his eyes, “I’m the one who gets to look into those beautiful eyes. I don’t think you’ll ever understand how much I cherish you, Hayati.” “If it’s anything like what I feel for you, then I think I do.” He claims my lips, biting down on my lower lip softly before pulling on it with his teeth. [[Just cuddle.]] [[Straddle him.]] [[Motion for him to straddle me.]]
I pull back and nuzzle into his chest, relishing the feel of his arms around me. Close was truly never close enough. I felt like I would never be fully satisfied. It would make my day to just be lost in his arms, to never find my way back no matter how hard I tried. I hum to myself, letting his steady breathing lull me to sleep. <a data-passage="TY7"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I straddle him, giving him little time to react as I lean in and press a want-filled kiss to his lips. He rests his hands on my hips, and I begin to slowly grind against him, feeling <<if $showec>>his member growing<<else>>him grow<</if>> harder against me. The room’s mood had gone from pure sensual to an overpowering want mixed with high emotions. One thing that I admired most was that it was never lusting. Or at least I wouldn’t describe it as such. There was desire, but it wasn’t sexual desire per se, not as much as it was a desire to take part in all that he had to offer. To allow him to experience the rush of emotions and pleasure that I know his empathy allowed him to take in. I didn’t desire sex. I wanted him: his being, his heart, his soul. Sex, between us, was just another way for us to become closer. “Do you –,” I start, jumping in fright at the loud banging outside the door. I hear laughter following, and as the banging continues, the laughter rises. Following that was a groan that sounded like it was from Chris. “Shut up!” I hear Bradley say, “they’re asleep.” The laughter doesn’t subside, but it does grow distant. We sit there in silence. “I hate them,” Rahim finally sighs. I laugh. The moment had passed as I get off of him. He wraps his arms around me and pulls me close. “Get some sleep,” he tells me, and I nod, letting the sound of his heartbeat lull me into a magically swift rest. <a data-passage="TY7"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I motion for him to straddle me, and he does so without hesitation. He leans against me as my hands find purchase along his hips, gripping his flesh in need and want as he begins to grind against me. I bite down on his lips, a growl forming as the heat in the room rises. The room’s mood had gone from pure sensual to an overpowering want mixed with high emotions. One thing that I admired most was that it was never lusting. Or at least I wouldn’t describe it as such. There was desire, but it wasn’t sexual desire per se, not as much as it was a desire to take part in all that he had to offer. To allow him to experience the rush of emotions and pleasure that I know his empathy allowed him to take in. I didn’t desire sex. I wanted him: his being, his heart, his soul. Sex, between us, was just another way for us to become closer. “Do you –,” I start, jumping in fright at the loud banging outside the door. I hear laughter following, and as the banging continues, the laughter rises. Following that was a groan that sounded like it was from Chris. “Shut up!” I hear Bradley say, “they’re asleep.” The laughter doesn’t subside, but it does grow distant. We sit there in silence. “I hate them,” Rahim finally sighs. I laugh. The moment had passed as I get off of him. He wraps his arms around me and pulls me close. “Get some sleep,” he tells me, and I nod, letting the sound of his heartbeat lull me into a magically swift rest. <a data-passage="TY7"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
The next day, we all gather in the kitchen. I eat my cereal as I sit beside Bradley, who’s waiting patiently with his laptop open. Chris appears mere steps away from death on the other side of the table, and everyone else was crowded around the blender. “Don’t you dare!” Sydero growls, swatting Amari’s hand away, “you go last.” “But I’m hungry now,” she whines. “I just want to make my applesauce!” Zillah screeches. “Hey, chill!” Chris barks, picking up his head, “some of us got wasted last night.” [[“Exactly what did you all do?”]] [[“It’s way too early for Zillah’s screeching.”]] [[“Let the puppy get her breakfast.”]]
“Okay, I’m curious. Exactly what did you all do last night?” Bradley shakes his head, “they decided to play dare or dare and see who could get drunk the fastest on an empty stomach,” he jabs his thumb in Chris’s direction, “I’m pretty sure he has alcohol poisoning now.” “Why do all of you need babysitters?” Rahim asks, his eyes on Sydero when he says it. “Why you gotta look at me? Zillah’s the one who suggested it.” “Hey,” Zillah barks defensively, “I might be the oldest one here, but I have a sort of childlike sentimentality.” “Meaning?” Amari inquires, slowly bringing the unused blender closer to her. “Meaning. I cannot be held responsible for my actions and I //want// my applesauce,” he swats her hand, “you’re last.” “We should go over what we’re going to do for the holiday,” Bradley says, moving to sit on the table as if the chair wasn’t quite cutting it. “Ass off the – you know what, I don’t care. Sit wherever you like,” Chris grumbles. “What do we even need to go over?” Zillah asks, taking a seat with a bowl of applesauce and an almost empty bottle of vodka. He looks quite pleased. “Everything. Who's cooking, the guest list, decorations, the shopping. All of this is important.” “This should be easy,” Sydero states, “the only people in this entire room I trust to cook is Chris and Rahim.” [[“Hey, I can cook.”][$cookgame = "great"]] [[“I’m a decent cook.”][$cookgame = "decent"]] [[“Yea, I’m a horrible cook.”][$cookgame = "bad"]] [[“You can’t even eat regular food.”][$cookgame = "decent"]]
“I don’t know how many times we have to say this,” I start, turning to look at Zillah, “but it’s way too early for you to be screeching.” He opens his mouth to do it again but instead groans in pain as Sydero’s elbow meets his stomach. “Not in my ear,” she berates. “We should go over what we’re going to do for the holiday,” Bradley says, moving to sit on the table as if the chair wasn’t quite cutting it. “Ass off the – you know what, I don’t care. Sit wherever you like,” Chris grumbles. “What do we even need to go over?” Zillah asks, taking a seat with a bowl of applesauce and an almost empty bottle of vodka. He looks quite pleased. “Everything. Who's cooking, the guest list, decorations, the shopping. All of this is important.” “This should be easy,” Sydero states, “the only people in this entire room I trust to cook is Chris and Rahim.” [[“Hey, I can cook.”][$cookgame = "great"]] [[“I’m a decent cook.”][$cookgame = "decent"]] [[“Yea, I’m a horrible cook.”][$cookgame = "bad"]] [[“You can’t even eat regular food.”][$cookgame = "decent"]]
“Gosh, guys, you’re all monsters. Let the puppy get her breakfast already.” <<if $sa>>\ “Oh, please,” Sydero smirks, “she already had breakfast today.” I choke on my cereal, dropping the spoon into the bowl as I attempt to get myself under control. “Shut up!” Amari growls, about to slap her chest when Sydero catches her wrist. “What did you say to me?” Amari fights the blush and looks at the ground, stumbling over her words as Sydero stares on with a dominant look in her eye. “Disgusting. Can you let some of us eat breakfast in peace?” I question, throwing a piece of cereal at Sydero. <<else>>\ “How about we let you get a smoothie after she gets her breakfast, and she swears she’s cleaned up the blender. Then you tell us if she should go first,” Zillah counters. “Plus, I was here first.” “You weren’t,” Sydero corrects, “you barely got here before Rahim.” She turns her attention to Rahim, “what …” she trails off, her eyes flickering to me as a broad smile encroaches onto her face, “or should I ask who caused you to stay in late?” “Get your mind out of the gutter,” he groans, pushing her, so he was closer to the blender, “the four of you kept me up with your drunken screams.” “Our drunken screams or $name’s?” Zillah snickers, earning a piece of cereal to the head. <</if>>\ “We should go over what we’re going to do for the holiday,” Bradley says, moving to sit on the table as if the chair wasn’t quite cutting it. “Ass off the – you know what, I don’t care. Sit wherever you like,” Chris grumbles. “What do we even need to go over?” Zillah asks, taking a seat with a bowl of applesauce and an almost empty bottle of vodka. He looks quite pleased. “Everything. Who's cooking, the guest list, decorations, the shopping. All of this is important.” “This should be easy,” Sydero states, “the only people in this entire room I trust to cook is Chris and Rahim.” [[“Hey, I can cook.”][$cookgame = "great"]] [[“I’m a decent cook.”][$cookgame = "decent"]] [[“Yea, I’m a horrible cook.”][$cookgame = "bad"]] [[“You can’t even eat regular food.”][$cookgame = "decent"]]
“Hey,” I frown, “I can cook.” “Say that to the bowl of water you managed to burn.” “I didn’t burn it,” I mumble in self-defense, “… I forgot it was on the stove, and it evaporated.” “Burned, evaporated. You messed it up.” “Water doesn’t count.” “To hell if it doesn’t.” “So, Rahim, Chris, and $name will be cooking,” Bradley says, typing something in. “What’s next?” I ask, glancing over to see Rahim taking a seat next to me, subtly moving his chair so that he was closer to me. Subtle since even he didn’t seem to know that he was doing it, let alone the others. [[Lean into him.]] [[Play with his hand.]] [[Focus on Bradley.]]
I shrug, not taking her words to heart, “I’m a decent cook. Nothing fancy, but I can at least help.” “I’m surprised you said you trust me to cook,” Rahim points out to Syd. “I didn’t want to put that much pressure on Chris’s shoulders,” she sneers, “he’s very fragile.” Chris gives us a thumbs up, saying nothing as his face stays buried behind his arm. “So, Rahim, Chris, and $name will be cooking,” Bradley says, typing something in. “What’s next?” I ask, glancing over to see Rahim taking a seat next to me, subtly moving his chair so that he was closer to me. Subtle since even he didn’t seem to know that he was doing it, let alone the others. [[Lean into him.]] [[Play with his hand.]] [[Focus on Bradley.]]
“Yea, I agree with Sydero,” I chuckle, “I’m a horrible cook.” “But that doesn’t mean the rest of us are,” Amari pouts. “Amari,” I start, “what’s the last thing you cooked?” “A sandwich!” “You don’t cook sandwiches, <<if $sa>>babe. Gosh, you’re adorably clueless, and I love it.” Amari looks pleased enough, blushing and sitting straighter in her seat.<<else>>Amari,” Syd sighs tiredly.<</if>> “So, Rahim, Chris, and $name will be cooking,” Bradley says, typing something in. “Wait,” Zillah interjects, “didn’t ?he just say ?he’s a terrible cook?” “Yes, but I damn sure don’t trust you near electronics, Sydero near sharp objects, and Amari … at all. So, $name it is.” “What’s next?” I ask, glancing over to see Rahim taking a seat next to me, subtly moving his chair so that he was closer to me. Subtle since even he didn’t seem to know that he was doing it, let alone the others. [[Lean into him.]] [[Play with his hand.]] [[Focus on Bradley.]]
“Wait, why do you even care, Syd? You can’t eat normal food anyway,” I remind everyone, including her it seems. “Wrong,” she smirks, “I can eat your typical human food since I’m balanced. But I don’t need it, and it doesn’t really do anything for me but pack on calories.” “Same goes for all of us, besides Zillah, I think,” Rahim informs, gazing over at the shade for confirmation. Zillah shrugs, “it does literally nothing for me. But if it tastes good, then I don’t care.” “Yea,” Bradley sighs, “and I don’t think they’re selling faerie essence at the supermarket.” “So, Rahim, Chris, and $name will be cooking,” Bradley says, typing something in, “you okay with that $name?” I shrug, “I’m a decent cook.” “What’s next?” I ask, glancing over to see Rahim taking a seat next to me, subtly moving his chair so that he was closer to me. Subtle since even he didn’t seem to know that he was doing it, let alone the others. [[Lean into him.]] [[Play with his hand.]] [[Focus on Bradley.]]
I lean into him, turning in my chair just enough so that it wasn’t impeding and so my head could meet his shoulder. He places a soft kiss on my forehead before placing his attention back on Bradley. “Shopping list. Chris and Sydero, you two are in charge of alcohol.” I gaze over to see Sydero throw her head back in laughter, raising her hand just in time to give Chris a lazy high-five. “Zillah and Amari, you’re with me. We’ll be going out to get decorations.” “Why can’t I be part of the alcohol team?” Zillah whines, “does it look like I’m an interior designer?” Bradley stares at him for a second longer, “I’m thinking about getting lime green and blood orange streamers.” “You wouldn’t dare,” he growls, “who the hell puts that combination together for streamers? At least do an …” he trails off, his face soon becoming void of emotion. He huffs and grumbles but no longer questions Bradley’s teams. Bradley gazes over at Rahim and me, “you two are in charge of food. Just get the regular.” “Ooh, please get a nice juicy turkey,” Amari proposes, “and a ham or two. I kinda want one raw.” “If we’re making requests, then you need to grab ingredients for a sweet potato casserole. No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without that. I know my mom’s recipe, too,” Chris informs next. “Apple pie!” Zillah shouts. “I just want those really nice flaky rolls,” Sydero suggests. I turn to see if Bradley would request anything, but he just shakes his head. A subtle smile on his face as the table descends into a conversation about their favorite dishes. “Alright. Well, I’ll call an Uber for the three of us,” Bradley tells us, “while the four of you can just leave whenever you’re ready.” Everyone gets up, but Bradley grabs my arm before I can get far. “Can the two of you also make the guest list? If I make it a group thing, then I’m pretty sure we’ll just be sitting here arguing the entire time.” I nod in compliance before walking to my room to get dressed. <a data-passage="TY8"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I grab his hand, and he gives it willingly, using his free hand to sip his smoothie. With most of my attention still on Bradley and what he was saying, I begin to play with his hand, running my finger over his skin and trailing it up and down the back of his hand. “Shopping list. Chris and Sydero, you two are in charge of alcohol.” I gaze over to see Sydero throw her head back in laughter, raising her hand just in time to give Chris a lazy high-five. “Zillah and Amari, you’re with me. We’ll be going out to get decorations.” “Why can’t I be part of the alcohol team?” Zillah whines, “does it look like I’m an interior designer?” Bradley stares at him for a second longer, “I’m thinking about getting lime green and blood orange streamers.” “You wouldn’t dare,” he growls, “who the hell puts that combination together for streamers? At least do an …” he trails off, his face soon becoming void of emotion. He huffs and grumbles but no longer questions Bradley’s teams. Bradley gazes over at Rahim and me, “you two are in charge of food. Just get the regular.” “Ooh, please get a nice juicy turkey,” Amari proposes, “and a ham or two. I kinda want one raw.” “If we’re making requests, then you need to grab ingredients for a sweet potato casserole. No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without that. I know my mom’s recipe, too,” Chris informs next. “Apple pie!” Zillah shouts. “I just want those really nice flaky rolls,” Sydero suggests. I turn to see if Bradley would request anything, but he just shakes his head. A subtle smile on his face as the table descends into a conversation about their favorite dishes. “Alright. Well, I’ll call an Uber for the three of us,” Bradley tells us, “while the four of you can just leave whenever you’re ready.” Everyone gets up, but Bradley grabs my arm before I can get far. “Can the two of you also make the guest list? If I make it a group thing, then I’m pretty sure we’ll just be sitting here arguing the entire time.” I nod in compliance before walking to my room to get dressed. <a data-passage="TY8"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Despite his closeness, I place all of my attention on Bradley. “Shopping list. Chris and Sydero, you two are in charge of alcohol.” I gaze over to see Sydero throw her head back in laughter, raising her hand just in time to give Chris a lazy high-five. “Zillah and Amari, you’re with me. We’ll be going out to get decorations.” “Why can’t I be part of the alcohol team?” Zillah whines, “does it look like I’m an interior designer?” Bradley stares at him for a second longer, “I’m thinking about getting lime green and blood orange streamers.” “You wouldn’t dare,” he growls, “who the hell puts that combination together for streamers? At least do an …” he trails off, his face soon becoming void of emotion. He huffs and grumbles but no longer questions Bradley’s teams. Bradley gazes over at Rahim and me, “you two are in charge of food. Just get the regular.” “Ooh, please get a nice juicy turkey,” Amari proposes, “and a ham or two. I kinda want one raw.” “If we’re making requests, then you need to grab ingredients for a sweet potato casserole. No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without that. I know my mom’s recipe, too,” Chris informs next. “Apple pie!” Zillah shouts. “I just want those really nice flaky rolls,” Sydero suggests. I turn to see if Bradley would request anything, but he just shakes his head. A subtle smile on his face as the table descends into a conversation about their favorite dishes. “Alright. Well, I’ll call an Uber for the three of us,” Bradley tells us, “while the four of you can just leave whenever you’re ready.” Everyone gets up, but Bradley grabs my arm before I can get far. “Can the two of you also make the guest list? If I make it a group thing, then I’m pretty sure we’ll just be sitting here arguing the entire time.” I nod in compliance before walking to my room to get dressed. <a data-passage="TY8"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Rahim and I leave soon after, heading towards the supermarket that resides near where we live. Turkey Day was three days away; I suppose this was more last-minute shopping than anything. Rahim and I lazily make our way up and down the aisles, going over the extensive list Bradley had given us. “I can’t remember,” Rahim sighs, “what did Zillah say he wanted?” [[“Cherry pie.”]] [[“Apple pie.”][$food +=1]] [[“Blueberry pie.”]] [[“Who cares?”]]
“He said he wanted cherry pie, right?” “I don’t know, that’s why I asked you,” he laughs, grabbing the concealed cherry pie and putting it in the cart. “We should probably head over to the meat, make sure we get one before everyone takes them.” We head towards the meat section, stopping here and there to add something we see to the cart or just pointing it out to the other. “This is … nice,” I start, frowning as I try to figure out if that was indeed the word I wished to use, “right? Or am I just being weird?” Rahim idly picks up a can of cranberry sauce and puts it back down in disgust, though he speaks in a dreamy timbre, “I think the word you mean is domestic. Normal. Average.” “When you say it like that, it sounds like you actually enjoy it.” He pauses, “I do.” He leans on the shopping cart and faces me, “I like this a lot especially with you. It’s nice to sometimes play pretend.” “It doesn’t have to be pretend, Rahim.” “Doesn’t it,” he grumbles and points to some punch, motioning for me to grab it. “This can never be our life, even if I crave it as much as I do.” <a data-passage="TY9"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“He said he wanted apple pie, right? I mean, it only makes sense.” “He really should stop eating apples,” he snorted, grabbing the concealed apple pie and putting it in the cart. “We should probably head over to the meat, make sure we get one before everyone takes them.” We head towards the meat section, stopping here and there to add something we see to the cart or just pointing it out to the other. “This is … nice,” I start, frowning as I try to figure out if that was indeed the word I wished to use, “right? Or am I just being weird?” Rahim idly picks up a can of cranberry sauce and puts it back down in disgust, though he speaks in a dreamy timbre, “I think the word you mean is domestic. Normal. Average.” “When you say it like that, it sounds like you actually enjoy it.” He pauses, “I do.” He leans on the shopping cart and faces me, “I like this a lot especially with you. It’s nice to sometimes play pretend.” “It doesn’t have to be pretend, Rahim.” “Doesn’t it,” he grumbles and points to some punch, motioning for me to grab it. “This can never be our life, even if I crave it as much as I do.” <a data-passage="TY9"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“He said he wanted blueberry pie, right?” “I don’t know, that’s why I asked you,” he laughs, grabbing the concealed blueberry pie and putting it in the cart. “We should probably head over to the meat, make sure we get one before everyone takes them.” We head towards the meat section, stopping here and there to add something we see to the cart or just pointing it out to the other. “This is … nice,” I start, frowning as I try to figure out if that was indeed the word I wished to use, “right? Or am I just being weird?” Rahim idly picks up a can of cranberry sauce and puts it back down in disgust, though he speaks in a dreamy timbre, “I think the word you mean is domestic. Normal. Average.” “When you say it like that, it sounds like you actually enjoy it.” He pauses, “I do.” He leans on the shopping cart and faces me, “I like this a lot especially with you. It’s nice to sometimes play pretend.” “It doesn’t have to be pretend, Rahim.” “Doesn’t it,” he grumbles and points to some punch, motioning for me to grab it. “This can never be our life, even if I crave it as much as I do.” <a data-passage="TY9"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Who cares what he wants?” Rahim frowns, “come on, $name, don’t be like that.” “Be like what? If he wanted it, he should’ve come with us. Plus, whatever he asked for, he’ll probably be stingy with it. So, he’ll be fine without it.” Rahim shakes his head but doesn’t argue his point any further. He nods to the far side of the store, “we should probably head over to the meat, make sure we get one before everyone takes them.” We head towards the meat section, stopping here and there to add something we see to the cart or just pointing it out to the other. “This is … nice,” I start, frowning as I try to figure out if that was indeed the word I wished to use, “right? Or am I just being weird?” Rahim idly picks up a can of cranberry sauce and puts it back down in disgust, though he speaks in a dreamy timbre, “I think the word you mean is domestic. Normal. Average.” “When you say it like that, it sounds like you actually enjoy it.” He pauses, “I do.” He leans on the shopping cart and faces me, “I like this a lot especially with you. It’s nice to sometimes play pretend.” “It doesn’t have to be pretend, Rahim.” “Doesn’t it,” he grumbles and points to some punch, motioning for me to grab it. “This can never be our life, even if I crave it as much as I do.” <a data-passage="TY9"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I peer over at him. This wasn’t the first time he’s told me how he wished he could leave our life behind and just live like an average person. But that conversation always stopped right there, with the idea hanging in the air, suspended and not doing much else. “What do you see for your future or want at least?” “You tell me what you want first, and then I’ll tell you,” he promises, glancing over at me with a gleam of hope in his eye. [[“I want a family.”]] [[“I just want you.”]] [[“I want a mix.”]] [[“I’m good with where we are.”]]
“I want a family,” I say, just as surprised as he looked. I didn’t talk about it much, mostly because it never seemed like an attainable goal. I was the child of Death, for crying out loud. Wanting and having always felt like two widely different things, light years away from one another. “I do too,” he whispers, “I know it’s not possible, but I always wanted to just see a little mini-me running around.” He chuckles at the thought, lost in the idea. “You know it’s possible, right?” “Adopting yea, and I have no problem with that. Every kid deserves a chance, regardless of their past. But I wanted //my// kid or at least my partner’s kid. Something that felt closer … I don’t know how to describe it. But that isn’t possible; we’re infertile.” “Not even with another nephilim or angel?” I question. “No. Nephilim’s are completely infertile like most hybrids save for witches and vaewolves. But I’m okay with adopting, really. But I don’t think I could raise a normal human. How would that even go? I don’t know the first thing about being human. I wish I did but the sad truth is that I don’t. I never will.” [[“You do your best.”]] [[“You raise them the same.”]] [[“I don’t do kids.”]]
“As corny as it may sound, I just want you in my future. Everything else feels like minor details in comparison.” His eyes sparkle, and I can see his body shudder in pleasure. “I can agree there.” “But there’s nothing wrong with you wanting a family,” I add-in, “just because I didn’t say it doesn’t mean you can’t want it or we can’t ever have it.” “Yours sounds far more possible than mine.” “You know it’s possible, right?” “Adopting yea, and I have no problem with that. Every kid deserves a chance, regardless of their past. But I wanted //my// kid or at least my partner’s kid. Something that felt closer … I don’t know how to describe it. But that isn’t possible; we’re infertile.” “Not even with another nephilim or angel?” I question. “No. Nephilim’s are completely infertile like most hybrids save for witches and vaewolves. But I’m okay with adopting, really. But I don’t think I could raise a normal human. How would that even go? I don’t know the first thing about being human. I wish I did but the sad truth is that I don’t. I never will.” [[“You do your best.”]] [[“You raise them the same.”]] [[“I don’t do kids.”]]
“I think I want a mix of things. I’m okay with the life we have now, but I would also like a family. Is it not possible to have both?” “I’m sure it is, but just look at Faye. It’s not without its danger. The hunting not so much as the supernatural aspect, it always comes with a host of dangers and issues. Issues you may not always be able to shield your family from, Bradley’s a good example of that. You either teach your kids to fight young or make it to where it doesn’t exist; neither is healthy. I would be fine without the supernatural aspect, though. I mean, I know it’s never going to happen, seeing a little mini-me running around.” “You know it’s possible, right?” “Adopting yea, and I have no problem with that. Every kid deserves a chance, regardless of their past. But I wanted //my// kid or at least my partner’s kid. Something that felt closer … I don’t know how to describe it. But that isn’t possible; we’re infertile.” “Not even with another nephilim or angel?” I question. “No. Nephilim’s are completely infertile like most hybrids save for witches and vaewolves. But I’m okay with adopting, really. But I don’t think I could raise a normal human. How would that even go? I don’t know the first thing about being human. I wish I did but the sad truth is that I don’t. I never will.” [[“You do your best.”]] [[“You raise them the same.”]] [[“I don’t do kids.”]]
“I’m good with where we are. I like it. I know it’s dangerous, and at some point, I’ll want things to slow down and actually go down a different path. But for the foreseeable future, I’m happy right here.” “And that’s great. At least one of us will be happy,” he chuckles warmly. “But not you?” “You know me. I want a family. I want to see a little mini-me running around. Even if that’s never going to happen.” “You know it’s possible, right?” “Adopting yea, and I have no problem with that. Every kid deserves a chance, regardless of their past. But I wanted //my// kid or at least my partner’s kid. Something that felt closer … I don’t know how to describe it. But that isn’t possible; we’re infertile.” “Not even with another nephilim or angel?” I question. “No. Nephilim’s are completely infertile like most hybrids save for witches and vaewolves. But I’m okay with adopting, really. But I don’t think I could raise a normal human. How would that even go? I don’t know the first thing about being human. I wish I did but the sad truth is that I don’t. I never will.” [[“You do your best.”]] [[“You raise them the same.”]] [[“I don’t do kids.”]]
I place my hand on his and give it a light squeeze, “you do your best. You remind them every day that you care about them and that you support them unconditionally. And, hopefully, the end result is something everyone can be proud of.” “So, do what my dad didn’t do,” he laughs, a touch of sadness to it. Despite both of us having father issues, mine were not the same. In my case, mine was more of an absent father than an abusive one. Death was never around for obvious reasons, and so, on the rare occasions that I did see him, it was never for long. Rahim strived to make his proud, knowing what to do but not knowing how. I, well, I sought to just make myself relevant to Death whenever I could. Remind him that I was here. “Yea …” <a data-passage="TY10"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Supernatural or human, you wouldn’t raise them differently.” “You would, though,” he claims, “I think I know where you’re coming from. You mean you’d raise them with the same amount of love, care, and respect. True. But you wouldn’t have to spend added time trying to show a human how to control their bloodlust or that they need to lock themselves away during a full moon. The same way you wouldn’t tell a witch that they have no need to control their abilities or a vampire not to hide their true nature.” “I see what you mean.” <a data-passage="TY10"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Beats me,” I snort, “I’m not a big fan of kids, so I don’t know what to tell you.” “Really? You never thought about having them at all?” “A family to me doesn’t necessarily mean a bunch of children running around. It just means I’m surrounded by those I care about.” “That makes sense.” “But that doesn’t mean you have to change your future dreams to fit mine,” I add, “if anything, we just have to talk this through later and agree on something. Neither of us should live a life we don’t like because we’re scared of angering our partner.” Rahim kisses my forehead and smiles. “Later.” <a data-passage="TY10"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
We make it to the meat section and look over the numerous turkeys and hams out on display. “I know Amari wanted us to get a turkey and then an extra one, I’m guessing, so she can eat it raw.” “Does that ever become normal to say?” I laugh. “No. No, it doesn’t.” He picks up a turkey and looks it over, “I don’t exactly know how to judge this … do we judge this?” “I don’t know. Maybe just get the one that’s a good price?” “Does that mean it’s cheap?” “That means it’s not cheap, but it’s not expensive.” “That makes no sense,” he blurts, picking up two turkeys, “should I weigh them?” I snort, “and find out what? Which turkey has more steroids pumped into it?” He frowns and drops both of them, “well, that just makes me not want to get them at all. What about a plant-based turkey?” [[“Oh, good idea.”]] [[“Plant-based what?”]] [[“Amari would kill us.”]]
“Oh, that’s actually a good idea. It’s healthier too, though not always cheaper.” “Sounds better than getting a turkey that could have tons of chemicals inside of it. How does Amari even manage to eat this stuff?” “Well, she does eat it raw. I think her stomach can just handle it better. Blood by itself can be filled with harmful diseases and stuff too, but she seems healthier than most people.” “So, get the plant-based turkey or the real one?” Rahim questions, holding up both options. [[Get the plant-based turkey.]] [[Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$food +=1; $meat = true]]
“Plant-based what?” “You’ve never heard of plant-based meat? It’s fake meat that tastes like real meat but made out of soy products and such.” “Why have you heard of this?” He opens his mouth to reply and then closes it, “you know, that is actually a good question. I can’t remember where I heard about it.” “So, get the plant-based turkey or the real one?” Rahim questions, holding up both options. [[Get the plant-based turkey.]] [[Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$food +=1; $meat = true]]
“Amari would kill us, and that’s after she finished crying. Have you ever seen Amari cry? It’s not a pretty sight … well, it is. She’s adorable when she cries, but I don’t want to see it. It’s heartbreaking.” “It’s just a suggestion. Neither choice sounds good to me now.” “I could be wrong. Maybe the turkey isn’t as bad as we think.” “So, get the plant-based turkey or the real one?” Rahim questions, holding up both options. [[Get the plant-based turkey.]] [[Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$food +=1; $meat = true]]
<<if $first_visit>>\ “Let’s go with the plant-based one. Though, if Amari throws a fit, I’m totally blaming this on you.” “I’ll take it.” We continue on, knowing there were a few things left to grab from the list. Rahim looks over some of the ingredients for Chris’s casserole, adding them to the basket before stating, “Bradley asked us to make the guest list. Maybe we should start thinking about it. There’s only a few people I can think to invite over.” I take out my phone, ready to potentially send any invitation emails and texts out. <</if>>\ ''Discuss'': <<if $visit_chris is false>>[[Chris’s parents][$visit_chris = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Chris’s parents<</if>>, <<if $visit_death is false>>[[Death and Azrael][$visit_death = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Death and Azrael<</if>>, <<if $visit_rahim is false>>[[Rahim’s dad, Michael][$visit_rahim = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Rahim’s dad, Michael<</if>>, <<if $visit_roe is false>>[[Uncle Matheus][$visit_roe = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Uncle Matheus<</if>>, <<if $visit_fj is false>>[[Faye and Jeff][$visit_fj = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Faye and Jeff<</if>>, and <<if $visit_syd is false>>[[Sydero’s dad, Lust][$visit_syd = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Sydero’s dad, Lust<</if>>. <<if $visit_chris and $visit_death and $visit_rahim and $visit_roe and $visit_fj and $visit_syd>>\ <a data-passage="TY11"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
<<if $first_visit>>\ “Let’s grab a normal one. I feel like we just talked ourselves into believing it’s worse than what it really is. Worst case scenario, we don’t eat it at all. At least then Amari can’t blame us.” He nods and grabs a turkey and ham. We continue on, knowing there were a few things left to grab from the list. Rahim looks over some of the ingredients for Chris’s casserole, adding them to the basket before stating, “Bradley asked us to make the guest list. Maybe we should start thinking about it. There’s only a few people I can think to invite over.” I take out my phone, ready to potentially send any invitation emails and texts out. <</if>>\ ''Discuss'': <<if $visit_chris is false>>[[Chris’s parents][$visit_chris = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Chris’s parents<</if>>, <<if $visit_death is false>>[[Death and Azrael][$visit_death = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Death and Azrael<</if>>, <<if $visit_rahim is false>>[[Rahim’s dad, Michael][$visit_rahim = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Rahim’s dad, Michael<</if>>, <<if $visit_roe is false>>[[Uncle Matheus][$visit_roe = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Uncle Matheus<</if>>, <<if $visit_fj is false>>[[Faye and Jeff][$visit_fj = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Faye and Jeff<</if>>, and <<if $visit_syd is false>>[[Sydero’s dad, Lust][$visit_syd = true; $first_visit = false]]<<else>>Sydero’s dad, Lust<</if>>. <<if $visit_chris and $visit_death and $visit_rahim and $visit_roe and $visit_fj and $visit_syd>>\ <a data-passage="TY11"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
“Chris’s parents? Do you think he’d want us to invite them?” Rahim asks, scratching the back of his neck. “After what he said earlier about them, I feel like he’d be pretty upset to learn that we sent them an invitation.” “Chris’s problem is with his dad, not his mom. In a way, it’s kinda the same problem you have with your dad.” I see Rahim stiffen as he glances over at me, “and what problem is that?” [[“I know you, Rahim.”]] [[“Nevermind.”]] [[“Daddy issues.”]]
“How about my dad and Azrael?” I present, still trying to figure out how I felt about it. “Why add Azrael?” Rahim question. “The two are practically inseparable, so I don’t think we can get away with inviting Death but not Azrael.” “This is your call. Death and Azrael are more so for you and Zillah.” He had a point there. Though Zillah didn’t like Azrael, he still bowed to Death. Not inviting them, even if I personally had a good reason, might upset Zillah. [[Invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_death = true]] [[Don’t invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
I let out a long sigh as I glance over the ingredients that Chris needed for his casserole. It was //that// time. “So, are you inviting your dad or not?” Rahim seemed to have already been waiting for that question. His demeanor had shifted entirely. He starts to answer but stops, running his hands through his hair and looking troubled, staring off into the distance as if it would hold an answer. If he was this worried about his answer, then, to me at least, the answer was obvious, don’t bring him. But that wasn’t my decision to make. I had already told him what I thought earlier. It was on him now. <<if $encourage>>\ “Yea, add him to the list. If the worst happens, then I’ll live with it. If not then, I’ll take it as a good day.” I nod and type his name in the email. <<else>>\ “No. This dinner might be stressful by itself. Adding him will just make it worse. I’ll be okay; he probably wouldn’t show up anyway.” His words seem to strike him deep, and he glances away. I grab his hand and place a light kiss before squeezing it. “Let’s move on. Who’s next?” <</if>>\ <<return>>
“Your uncle,” Rahim begins, “did you want to invite him?” “He might be working. He typically does on Thanksgiving,” I point out, a bit ashamed that I hadn’t thought about inviting him until now. “Did you ever celebrate it with him?” <<if $wha>>\ “No, never. Like I said, he was always working, and when he got back, he was too tired to ever cook. I wasn’t the best cook, so I had no idea how to even go about preparing it. Maybe this’ll be the first for us then.” <<else>>\ “Yea,” I say, a small smile appearing as I reminisce, “it was small, always just the two of us. But that’s not what I remember. I remember that he called it Thanks-Tardy since we always celebrated the day after. He’d wake me up as soon as he got back, and we’d either cook something small together or eat takeout. But it was nice … really nice.” I chuckle and shake my head, “gosh, did he love his awful puns.” <</if>>\ Rahim grabs my hand and squeezes it, “I for one love your Uncle. So you know what my choice would be.” [[Invite him.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_roe = true]] [[Don’t invite him.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
“The obvious ones, Faye and Jeff?” “I really see no reason why they’re not just automatically added to the list. Faye would kill us if we didn’t add her.” “Let’s be honest,” I laugh, “she’d probably just come over anyway. Invitation or no.” “And Jeff,” Rahim rolls his eyes, “I still don’t understand that man.” “I think that’s part of Jeff’s whole persona. I don’t think he even understands himself. If we don’t invite him, Chris might be upset. You know Jeff is his biggest fan.” Rahim hums in agreement, both of us knowing how much Jeff loves Chris’s bartending skills. [[Invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_fj = true]] [[Don’t invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
“How about Sydero’s dad, Lust or Asmodeus. I don’t know which one he prefers to be called.” Rahim is quiet, and I can’t blame him. Rahim’s feelings concerning his father were understandable and straight to the point, but Sydero was still much an anomaly. On the one hand, she hated him, or at least that’s what it seemed like. On the other, it was evident that they cared about one another, or at least Lust cared for her. To me, it always seemed like circumstance caused the two to butt heads. That wasn’t to say that Lust hadn’t been an abusive father, but it was always more complicated than just adding a label and moving on. “It’s a toss-up,” Rahim finally says, “and I think you should decide. I’m far too biased, and not for the right reasons.” He didn’t have to explain. I nod, and my hands hover over the appropriate buttons. [[Invite him.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_syd = true]] [[Don’t invite him.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
“Don’t try and act like we haven’t had this discussion. Or even that I haven’t seen it with my own eyes. Both of your fathers suck, but you still desperately want to please them. Both of you want to make your father proud while you’re also trying to overtly avoid anything that has to do with them. An internal struggle, I’m sure.” Though Rahim doesn’t argue, he doesn’t seem too pleased about me saying the words aloud. I suppose I couldn’t blame him; no one wished to be reminded of things like this. “Hey,” I sigh, “I’m sorry. I should’ve kept it to myself.” He shrugs, “I asked. I set myself up for it.” “But still.” “That doesn’t answer the question,” Rahim says, waving away my words, “do we invite them or not. Inviting his mother and not his father probably won’t happen. If we invite one, we’re inviting the other.” [[Invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_chris = true]] [[Don’t invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
“Nevermind, forget I said anything.” “That doesn’t answer the question,” Rahim says, waving away my words, “do we invite them or not. Inviting his mother and not his father probably won’t happen. If we invite one, we’re inviting the other.” [[Invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_chris = true]] [[Don’t invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
“Well, you both have daddy issues. Frankly, this entire group has daddy issues, maybe save for …” I attempt to think about which one of us probably was safe from that assumption but can’t think of any of us. Bradley’s issue was more so because his father died, and Zillah was just that he never knew his father. So technically, they didn’t count … but they … did? Amari, well both of her parents were her problem. “Yea, all of us have daddy issues.” “That doesn’t answer the question,” Rahim says, waving away my words, “do we invite them or not. Inviting his mother and not his father probably won’t happen. If we invite one, we’re inviting the other.” [[Invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.][$gl_chris = true]] [[Don’t invite them.->Grab a normal turkey and ham.]]
<<nobr>> <<if $gl_syd is false and $gl_rahim is false and $gl_roe is false and $gl_fj is false and $gl_chris is false and $gl_death is false>> <<set $noone = true>> <</if>> <</nobr>> With all the invitations sent, Rahim and I head towards the checkout section of the store. “Did we get everything?” Rahim queries, glancing over the items in the cart. I do the same, going through Bradley’s list and finding everything marked off. [[“We’re good.”]] [[“Ah! Sydero’s request.”][$food +=1]]
“We’re good,” I answer, “how much do you think this will all round up to?” “Don’t worry about cost, Kudu,” he smiles, already bringing out his wallet as we find a place in line. “You ever get tired of using that line on me?” “Hmm, I don’t know,” he says, mimicking my expression, “do you ever get tired of asking me if I can handle the bill?” I poke my bottom lip out and narrow my eyes, “I have no problem with splitting or helping out.” He winds his arm around my waist and brings me close, planting a kiss on my cheek. “I know you don’t. But let me spoil you however I can.” “Ugh,” the cashier laughs, “you two are relationship goals.” I blush while Rahim tells her thank you. The cashier rings us up, and after paying, we head home. We wouldn’t cook until the day of Thanksgiving, so we just had to wait and prepare … <a data-passage="TY12"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Ah!” I screech, “Sydero’s request.” Before he can stop me, I rush off to go and grab the flaky bread rolls that Sydero wanted. I could potentially just grab croissants. Either way, I’m sure she’ll be pleased. I grab two bags and head back, placing them on the counter belt and then joining his side. “Were the rolls that important?” “You may want to face Syd’s wrath, but I don’t,” I playfully nudge him, “when does she ever ask us for anything anyway? Might as well.” He nods. The cashier rings us up, and after paying, we head home. We wouldn’t cook until the day of Thanksgiving, so we just had to wait and prepare … <a data-passage="TY12"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
The day of Thanksgiving comes, and for reasons unknown, my heart is fluttering. For the past few days, the house’s mood has been on the enthusiastic side. I throw on some clothes to cook in and head to the kitchen. Once there, I clap and question Rahim who’s already there, “so, what’s first?” “Should probably start preparing everything,” he answers, placing all the ingredients on the counter, “also preheat the oven.” I do as he says, putting it on 350 degrees before returning to his side. <<if $meat is false>>\ “I’ll handle the vegetables,” he starts, looking over the plant-based turkey that we had grabbed, “how the heck am I supposed to cook this? Does it even need to be cooked?” “Yea. You can probably season it too,” I tell him, grabbing the box and looking the directions over. I hand it back. “Chris is probably going to take care of the sides. Are you okay with handling the desserts?” <<else>>\ “I’ll handle the meat and vegetables. I’m sure Chris wants to do some of the sides. Are you okay with the desserts?” <</if>>\ “Yep.” “Where is Chris anyway?” I inquire, grabbing some bowls and utensils so that we could adequately mix things. “Getting ready. He told me he’ll be here soon.” I nod and concentrate on what I was doing. Some of the desserts were already fixed, making it easier for me since I just needed to put them on the table for consumption: the rest of the desserts, though, needed to be made—cakes and brownies and somewhere, cookies. Rahim and I get to work, only speaking to ask questions or ask for something the other had. The air between us reminds me of what we had at the grocery store. This was a different kind of teamwork, one that caused my insides to warm and my smile to grow. We were great on hunts, always having each other’s backs and knowing what the other needed with minimum conversation. But not everyone could have that translate over to an entirely different area and situation. I bite the inside of my cheek at the thought, ‘we were a good team, period.’ I glance up at him, chuckling at the sight I see and tapping my nose, “you got a little something right there, Rahim.” “What is it?” he asks, rubbing his nose and successful in placing more flour upon it. [[Get it for him.][$sock = true]] [[Let him get it himself.]]
I lean in and hold his face in my hands, using my thumb to wipe the splotch of flour resting there away. Neither of us makes a move, seeming perfectly content with just gazing into one another’s eyes. “You two are disgusting,” Chris says as he walks in, causing the two of us to jump apart. He waits for a beat before smiling, one so genuine and full, “disgustingly cute. I love it.” He wags his finger between the two of us, “I ship this.” “We should get back to cooking,” Rahim comments. “Hmm,” he hums and then snorts, “just say my name really sternly if you need me to go. I’ll hang a sock in the middle of the archway or something, so no one disturbs you.” “I’m about to throw whatever is in this bowl at you,” I warn, and he raises his hands in surrender. “I’m so serious. There’s nothing better than picking your partner up and fucking them rough on the countertop.” “Or bending them over and fucking them against the table or wall,” a new voice inputs. We all turn to see Sydero leaning against the wall. “Do you just appear when sex is the topic?” I ask in confusion, though a part of me was impressed at how quietly she had slipped in. “Actually, yes. It’s like a radar that just goes off.” “Can we change the subject?” Rahim asks, bending over to put the turkey into the oven,<<if $meat is false>> alongside the ham<</if>>. Sydero and Chris simultaneously glance over at me. Their brows raised and seeing if I would take advantage of the glorious opportunity that Rahim had just presented. [[Take it! (Leads to a dominant style reaction.)]] [[No, I’m not doing that.]]
My uncle didn’t raise a fool. When an opening like this presented itself, I took it without hesitancy. I smirk as I go over to him, resting my hands on his hip and pulling him back so that his ass rested against my groin. I lean forward, letting my breath tickle his ear. “Is this what they mean by it’s heating up in the kitchen?” “Boo,” Sydero hollers, “get a better line.” “You’re not even supposed to be in here,” Chris growls, hushing her. My attention was mainly on Rahim, his cheeks flushed. I could feel his heartbeat picking up. I didn’t have empathy, but I had an acute sense of sound when it came to hearts, rivaling even Amari’s ability. “Move, $name,” he growls or at least attempts to. His warning came out breathlessly, his teeth digging into his lower lip. I twirl my finger around a thick strand of his hair and pull. Leaning even closer, I nip his earlobe, “or what?” He presses his ass further into my groin, and I groan, letting him go and walking away. The heat was definitely rising, and it wasn’t because the stove was still open. I had to take a step back, lest something else occurred. I tune in back to the world, realizing that Sydero and Chris had stopped paying attention, probably to give us whatever kind of privacy they could. I glance back over towards Rahim, seeing the want burning in his eyes as he watches me. Time continues to go by as the three of us cook, random conversations sprouting that never last long enough to actually keep the silence at bay. Despite that, it was a comfortable silence. The smell of the food begins to make its way through the kitchen, a mix of aromas that caused my stomach to growl vehemently. Outside the kitchen, I could see the others working, setting the table, and hanging up the decorations. Chris flits in and out of the kitchen, helping to cook the food and assisting Sydero with the bar area. It was clear where he would rather be. Rahim was currently keeping an eye on the vegetables, humming along to the music as he sits on the counter. I was focused on frosting the red velvet cake, or at least attempting to. [[Ask Rahim for help. (Leads to a submissive style reaction.)]] [[Do it on my own.]]
I ignore their prying gazes and continue mixing the ingredients in front of me. All that could come later, and when we were behind closed doors. The last thing I needed was them watching me as I flirted and teased Rahim. Time continues to go by as the three of us cook, random conversations sprouting that never last long enough to actually keep the silence at bay. Despite that, it was a comfortable silence. The smell of the food begins to make its way through the kitchen, a mix of aromas that caused my stomach to growl vehemently. Outside the kitchen, I could see the others working, setting the table, and hanging up the decorations. Chris flits in and out of the kitchen, helping to cook the food and assisting Sydero with the bar area. It was clear where he would rather be. Rahim was currently keeping an eye on the vegetables, humming along to the music as he sits on the counter. I was focused on frosting the red velvet cake, or at least attempting to. [[Ask Rahim for help. (Leads to a submissive style reaction.)]] [[Do it on my own.]]
I make no move to help, letting him get the flour from his face himself. He looks to me, questioning me with his expression alone on whether he was successful. With a nod, I give him an answer and focus back on preparing what I was fixing. “Oh, it’s silent in here,” Chris points out as he walks in, “at least have some music playing. Who cooks in total silence?” “Isn’t that the best time to just think and contemplate?” I wonder aloud. “That’s the easiest way to burn food,” he informs me, reaching into his pocket and taking out his phone. He loads up some classic rock and begins making his way around the kitchen with relative ease. Time continues to go by as the three of us cook, random conversations sprouting that never last long enough to actually keep the silence at bay. Despite that, it was a comfortable silence. The smell of the food begins to make its way through the kitchen, a mix of aromas that caused my stomach to growl vehemently. Outside the kitchen, I could see the others working, setting the table, and hanging up the decorations. Chris flits in and out of the kitchen, helping to cook the food and assisting Sydero with the bar area. It was clear where he would rather be. Rahim was currently keeping an eye on the vegetables, humming along to the music as he sits on the counter. I was focused on frosting the red velvet cake, or at least attempting to. [[Ask Rahim for help. (Leads to a submissive style reaction.)]] [[Do it on my own.]]
I was worried that I would mess this up. I wasn’t really the most knowledgeable about decorating cakes and the technique used to do it. “Rahim,” I say, gazing up from my work, “are you good with decorating cakes?” “I’m decent. Need help?” “Please.” He comes over and looks at my progress, motioning for me to show him how I was doing it. “Ah, I see your problem.” He gently grabs my hand and guides me in a different direction, the frosting coming out of the piping bag smoothly now. “Oh yea, definitely needed your help,” I chuckle, finding myself leaning back into his touch, resting myself up against his muscular frame. The hint of honey that I have become so familiar with was fighting an array of other smells, each of them projecting warmth and a sense of safety. “You sure you just didn’t want this?” he asks, whispering the words in my ear. “Hmm, maybe. Can you blame me?” He takes the piping bag from me and sets it down, turning me around so that my back was to the counter. He places a teasing kiss on my bottom lip, biting it and then flicking his tongue against it as if to apologize. With my free hand, I swipe some frosting and deposit it on his nose. I’m unable to hold my snicker in as he draws back with a look of confusion, attempting to look at his nose. <a data-passage="TY12.1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I got it,” I whisper, leaning forward and licking it off, my eyes rising to meet his. “You’re really making it hard not to take you in this kitchen right now,” he growls, nuzzling into my neck. His free hand starts to wander, and I make no move to stop it. Instead, Chris does. “I’ll check,” we hear him shout, and we tear ourselves apart from one another. Chris walks in, stopping in his tracks when he sees how close we were and probably reading the room. <<if $sock>>\ “I’m so serious about that sock. I can get it for you guys, no problem.” <<else>>\ “Oh, should I go grab a sock? I can hang it right over the kitchen arch.” <</if>>\ “We’re not having sex in the kitchen,” Rahim snaps, though there’s a lack of hostility in his voice. “Would I blame you, no? If I was dating either of you, I’d be dying to fuck the other too.” I look for something to throw, but Chris is already leaving, laughing as he goes. “Sorry, Syd, the imaginary sock on the kitchen arch is keeping me from entering.” “Uh uh,” Sydero shouts, snorting, “they fucking!?” I let out an exasperated sigh, one loud enough for all of them to hear. <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Whether or not the cake came out looking like a professional did it or an amateur, I was having fun and was okay with doing it myself. I don’t know if I would call myself a baker, but I definitely saw the appeal. “It’s looking great,” Chris says, walking in and about to sample some of the frosting, but I swat his hand away. “You can’t just say something looks great and then attempt to mess it up?” “Why not? That’s Zillah’s entire M.O.” “You’re horrible,” Rahim chuckles from his spot. <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“You sure?” Sydero asks, lounging back in her seat, lazily, “I feel like we should be eating first, then we hang out and get drunk, and then finally pass out from the self-induced food coma.” Bradley frowns, “and where are the speeches.” “Being flushed down a toilet along with some shit,” she laughs, only quieting when Amari nudges her as a reprimand. “You can go first then, Syd.” We let out small snickers as Sydero’s smirk falls but she shrugs. <<if $foodfight>>\ “Oh, gladly. I’m thankful for flaky rolls. You know,” she says, gazing over at Rahim and me, “the one thing I asked for. But wait. There are no flaky rolls or even croissants. So, maybe I should be thankful that there’s this fucked up looking turkey at least. I don’t know, you guys tell me because I’m drawing a blank.” She retakes her seat, grabbing a bottle and chugging it down. “Oh, and to add to that,” Amari says next, standing, “I’m thankful for the fact that I’m here, I guess. Because I can’t eat anything here and actually enjoy myself! Why?” she questions, eyes wide and full of questions that neither Rahim nor I had an answer for, “I was really excited for this and you guys just … nevermind.” She, like Sydero, practically falls back into her seat. <<else>>\ “I’m thankful for the patron god, Dionysus. I call on him to give me strength as I try to consume as much alcohol as physically possible.” She sits, and Bradley looks to argue, but I stop him, shaking my head. The fact that she had gotten up and said something at all was a feat. Pushing it was dangerous. Amari stands next, “I don’t know what I should be thankful for. I feel like I should say something that I don’t say every day,” she scratches the back of her neck, “and I kind of tell you guys every day how much I love you. Um … I’m thankful to finally be able to participate in this holiday. I’m sure it’ll be one for the books. Was that enough? Did I do a good job?” “You did great, Amari,” I reassure. <</if>>\ <<if $foodfight>>\ <a data-passage="TY15FF"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TY15"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
“Yea, I do too,” I laugh as I join him. I bring myself flush up against him, wrapping my arms around him and burying my face into the crook of his neck. “Hey,” he questions, turning so that he was now facing me. His eyes linger on my lips before traveling upwards, taking their precious time to take in every detail. Finally, they stop on my eyes, and his soften considerably as if his heart existed there. He trails his finger down my cheek, watching the movement before looking back at me. “You’re beautiful.” [[“That was a build-up.”]] [[“So are you.”]] [[Fight. The. Blush.]]
“Would you rather it off?” I ask, raising a brow and teasing him with a view of my bare chest. His eyes drink me in, landing on my face. With a serious expression and an even more sincere tone, “don’t tempt me.” “I think I want to tempt you,” I whisper, joining him in bed, softly placing a kiss against his bearded jaw. He wraps his arms around me, and I bury my face into the crook of his neck. “Hey,” he questions, leaning back so that he could take me in. His eyes linger on my lips before traveling upwards, taking their precious time to take in every detail. Finally, they stop on my eyes, and his soften considerably as if his heart existed there. He trails his finger down my cheek, watching the movement before looking back at me. “You’re beautiful.” [[“That was a build-up.”]] [[“So are you.”]] [[Fight. The. Blush.]]
“You have no one to blame for yourself,” I tell him, pulling the collar up so that I could inhale it. It smelled like him and washing detergent, though his natural musk was far more potent. I shiver, practically melting at the familiar and welcoming aroma. I glance back up at him, his eyes bright and attentive as he looks at me. “Despite how much I miss that shirt, I’d think I’d miss the view of you not wearing it even more.” I smile and join him in bed, wrapping my arms around him before burying my face into the crook of his neck. “Hey,” he questions, turning so that he was now facing me. His eyes linger on my lips before traveling upwards, taking their precious time to take in every detail. Finally, they stop on my eyes, and his soften considerably as if his heart existed there. He trails his finger down my cheek, watching the movement before looking back at me. “You’re beautiful.” [[“That was a build-up.”]] [[“So are you.”]] [[Fight. The. Blush.]]
“We’re really happy,” I begin to tell her, unable to hide my smile as I imagine myself in his arms, “really happy.” “I’m sure the others find you two sickening,” she laughs, placing her hands on my shoulders. “I really hope the best for you two. I haven’t seen a love so pure and unconditional. If anything, you two scare me with how much you adore one another.” “What do you mean?” She drops her hands and sighs, “a love like that. It’s rare to find something that the two of you wouldn’t do for the other. It can be dangerous, but it can also be beautiful, all at the same time.” She claps, “well, let me not take up your time. Let’s prepare for this dinner.” <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Is it possible to fall more in love with someone with each passing day?” “Even if it wasn’t, that’s obviously what you’re feeling so I suppose there’s no choice but to be real.” She places her hands on my shoulders. “I really hope the best for you two. I haven’t seen a love so pure and unconditional. If anything, you two scare me with how much you adore one another.” “What do you mean?” She drops her hands and sighs, “a love like that. It’s rare to find something that the two of you wouldn’t do for the other. It can be dangerous, but it can also be beautiful, all at the same time.” She claps, “well, let me not take up your time. Let’s prepare for this dinner.” <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I think I speak for both of us when I say that we take every day one step at a time. It’s not that I think the worse will happen. It’s just that he makes me want to live in the now.” “No need to explain yourself. I’m happy for you,” she places her hands on my shoulders, “I really hope the best for you two. I haven’t seen a love so pure and unconditional. If anything, you two scare me with how much you adore one another.” “What do you mean?” She drops her hands and sighs, “a love like that. It’s rare to find something that the two of you wouldn’t do for the other. It can be dangerous, but it can also be beautiful, all at the same time.” She claps, “well, let me not take up your time. Let’s prepare for this dinner.” <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
With all the guests here, the dinner commences. Everyone finds their seat, mine obviously being next to Rahim. He gives me a faint smile and nods to the food, “can you imagine that we did all of this together?” The way in which he says it causes my heart to flutter. “Right,” Chris interjects, “and you didn’t even have sex.” “Yea, about that,” Syd adds in, “why not? Who cooks an entire meal with their significant other and not get it on in the kitchen?” <<if $gl_fj>>\ “This is seriously not the conversation I wish to be hearing right before we eat,” Faye points out, something that I could agree with her on. <</if>>\ <<if $gl_rahim>>\ “I do hope you all discontinue this conversation,” Michael says in disgust, though I note that the look he sends our way was for Rahim and Rahim only, “you should conduct yourself appropriately at all times.” Rahim rolls his eyes, leaning over and giving me a long and passionate kiss. “Yea!” Syd cheers, “fuck the patriarchy.” <</if>>\ “How about we get on with this dinner,” Bradley suggests, glancing at me worriedly. “But first, speeches. We go in a circle and tell the table what we’re thankful for. After that, we eat, and then I guess just hang out?” <<include "TY14_NO1">>
“Michael! I’m so glad that you could make it,” I say, moving out of the way to let him in. “I’ll be here only for a little while. I’m only here because I found it rude to totally ignore the email that you sent me.” The smile on my face trembles, but I maintain it as Rahim approaches. “Father,” he says, nodding his head but saying nothing more. Though, that was simply because Michael abhorred any other kind of greeting from his son. “Are you okay?” I whisper to him, and he nods, giving me a smile that I could see straight through. I place a lingering kiss on his jaw, wrapping my arm around his waist for support. <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Michael,” I greet. “$name,” he replies. With that over with, I move out of the way to let him in, wishing to exchange no other words with him. “Father,” Rahim says as he approaches, nodding his head but saying nothing more. Though, that was simply because Michael abhorred any other kind of greeting from his son. “Are you okay?” I whisper to him, and he nods, giving me a smile that I could see straight through. I place a lingering kiss on his jaw, wrapping my arm around his waist for support. <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Wow, Michael, you really came. Here I thought there was some defenseless cult that you had to smite, or maybe you’d be too busy making babies cry.” “$name,” Michael says in disgust, “you’re still here.” “Who do you think sent the invitation?” “I was hoping it to be a humorless prank.” “Like your existence, understandable.” I feel someone squeeze my arm as a warning and turn to see Rahim. He gives me a reprimanding look but says nothing about the exchange. “Father,” he says, nodding his head but saying nothing more. Though, that was simply because Michael abhorred any other kind of greeting from his son. “I am not about to play nice with him,” I tell him, and he sighs, pulling me close. “For me?” “Ugh!” I screech, “that’s not fair, but fine. It’s just for a day,” I reassure myself. <a data-passage="TY13"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Zillah stands with a cocky grin, “well, we all know what I’m thankful for, myself, obviously.” <<if $gl_death>>\ “How do you all live with him?” Azrael questions under his breath, though the entire table can hear him. <</if>>\ Chris is up next, “I’ve never been good at these. And frankly, everyone whose opinions I honestly care about know that I don’t like this holiday. So, I guess I’m thankful for Bradley and second chances.” Bradley beams, seeming quite pleased with himself. I was next, a speech I hadn’t prepared for now upon me. [[“I’m thankful for you guys.”]] [[“I’m thankful for food.”]] [[“I’m thankful to be alive.”]] [[Raise my glass.]]
<<nobr>> <<audio "turkeyday" fadeout>> <<audio "romance" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.40>> <</nobr>> The party winds down soon after that. <<if $gl_death>>Unsurprisingly, my father left soon after the meal was over. To be honest, I was more surprised that he had shown up at all. As Azrael loved to remind me, ‘the duties of Death are never-ending.’ <</if>><<if $gl_syd>>Lust was still in attendance; whether or not Sydero appreciated that was unknown. He was with the others, proving once again why supernaturals reigned supreme at drinking. Much to Chris’s dismay. <</if>><<if $gl_chris>> Regarding Chris’s parents, his mother wished to stay, but of course, his father didn’t allow it. <<if $gl_death>>They left a bit after Death, and Azrael departed.<<else>>They left a few minutes after the dinner.<</if>><</if>> <<if $gl_fj>>\ To no one’s surprise, Faye and Jeff were still around. Though, it was a shock that Faye was drinking along with the group. Though not the same alcohol as the others. <</if>> <<if $gl_roe>>\ Uncle Matheus hadn’t left. He made himself comfortable in the living room, surrounded by the others as he told them tales of my childhood. I feel no need to stop him, especially since it would only spur him into embarrassing me further. At least this way, the others were telling him just as many stories, despite their drunken nature. <</if>>\ <<if $foodfight>>\ I sigh, focusing on cleaning most of the food up. It was a decent holiday, despite the fact that it practically ended in a fight. It only makes me ponder what Christmas would potentially be like. That was a holiday we at least participated in, though not in the traditional sense. I wipe the last major food spill up and go into the kitchen to wring out the rag. I would leave the dishes for tomorrow and the others. I certainly wasn’t going to clean this up all by myself. Everyone, besides Rahim, who had vanished, was either drunk or entertaining the drunks. Seeing that no one was arguing or starting fights, I decided to leave them be. Like I said, the main part of cleaning can be saved for tomorrow. <<else>>\ I sigh, a content smile on my face as I clean. It was a decent holiday, especially for it being the first time we’ve celebrated it. It only makes me ponder what Christmas would potentially be like. That was a holiday we at least participated in, though not in the traditional sense. I go into the kitchen and dump some of the dishes into the sink. I wasn’t planning on cleaning up everything, but it was better to get some of this stuff up and out of the way to avoid bugs. I certainly wasn’t going to clean this up all by myself. Everyone, besides Rahim, who had vanished, was either drunk or entertaining the drunks. Seeing that no one was arguing or starting fights, I decided to leave them be. Like I said, the main part of cleaning can be saved for tomorrow. <</if>>\ [[Non-sexual path.]] [[Sexual path.]]
I go back into the dining room to see if there was anything else to grab when I freeze, my eyes widening at the shirtless man that sits on the edge of the table. His eyes were bright, filled with a healthy mix of both warmth and desire. A fork rests in his hands, teasing his bottom lip and enticing me to come closer. But this was me ignoring the obvious, his bulge. His erection strained against his pants, begging for freedom as it pushed against the fabric. I can already feel the heat in the room heighten, surrounding both of us and pulling me closer to him. “Got room for dessert?” he questions with a cocky grin, resting the fork in his mouth. His eyes already devouring me. [[“How long have you been rehearsing that one?”]] [[Just … appreciate this view.]] [[“Yes.”]] [[“Give me a minute.”]]
I go back into the dining room to see if there was anything else to grab when I freeze, my brow rising in confusion at the shirtless man that sits on the edge of the table. He was fiddling with a fork, staring at it intensely, but it was evident that his mind was elsewhere. “Hey,” I voice, catching his attention as I approach, “what’s going on? Where’s your shirt?” <<if $foodfight>>\ He rolls his eyes, putting the fork down, “there were a few stains on it. By which I mean a lot. Anyone upset?” “Not that I know of. I’m pretty sure they’re too drunk to be upset even if they were.” <<else>>\ He rolls his eyes, putting the fork down, “there were a few stains on it. I liked that shirt, so I opted to wash it now rather than later. Where are the others?” “In the living room getting drunk.” <</if>>\ “And Bradley?” “Rahim, if you’re so worried, then why don’t you go out there and ask?” “My social bubble has been popped.” That I could understand and nod understandably. “I just,” he bites his tongue and frowns, gazing at me with a sparkle of hope in his eyes. “Would it be okay if we just went to the room and cuddled? I just … I really want to be close to you right now.” [[Give him my hand.]] [[“You don’t want to join them?”]]
I offer him my hand, and with a thankful smile, he takes it. I lead him out of the dining room and to the hallway that holds all of our rooms. At the last minute, I decide to go to his room, closing the door behind us and cutting on the faint lights that he had strung up some time ago. I cut on a movie to fill the silence and after choosing one of our favorites, lie next to Rahim with a content sigh. We lie there, tangled in each other’s arms. I was watching the movie, but it felt like Rahim was far more concerned with the sound of my beating heart. His ear pressed against my chest as his eyes begin to drift close. To help the action, I run my fingers through his hair, separating the strands while also massaging his scalp. He whimpers, moving in closer to me and tightening his grip. His fingers trail down my arm until stopping their journey at my hand. One finger at a time, he takes them into his own, squeezing and gazing up into my eyes. He moves in closer, his actions lazy though aware. My eyes flutter closed as his nose tickles my cheek and then comes to a stop on mine, his lips weightless against my own. Gently, he kisses my top lip, pulling on it just enough before releasing, repeating the action before resting his forehead against my cheek. <a data-passage="TY18"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I know you said that your social bubble is popped, but you don’t even want to show your face to them?” “If it’s all the same to you, no. Not really. I just feel drained. Not a bad drained, just tired from all the things we did.” I nod and motion for him to lead the way. He does so with a thankful smile, walking us to his room. I close the door behind us and cut on the faint lights that he had strung up some time ago. I cut on a movie to fill the silence and after choosing one of our favorites, lie next to Rahim with a content sigh. We lie there, tangled in each other’s arms. I was watching the movie, but it felt like Rahim was far more concerned with the sound of my beating heart. His ear pressed against my chest as his eyes begin to drift close. To help the action, I run my fingers through his hair, separating the strands while also massaging his scalp. He whimpers, moving in closer to me and tightening his grip. His fingers trail down my arm until stopping their journey at my hand. One finger at a time, he takes them into his own, squeezing and gazing up into my eyes. He moves in closer, his actions lazy though aware. My eyes flutter closed as his nose tickles my cheek and then comes to a stop on mine, his lips weightless against my own. Gently, he kisses my top lip, pulling on it just enough before releasing, repeating the action before resting his forehead against my cheek. <a data-passage="TY18"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I don’t know how much time has passed since we’ve been lying there. The shouting and laughter from outside have calmed down, and since Rahim had no windows, I couldn’t see the sun’s positioning. Frankly, I didn’t care. I hadn’t fallen asleep, but neither of us was very active. We exchanged a few words along with lazy kisses and touches. It was all bliss – pure, unbelievable, heart-pounding bliss. I loved this man so much that it genuinely did hurt to think about. “I didn’t want to say this at the table,” he whispers to me. I open my eyes to gaze at him, his touch delicate as it flutters across my skin. Despite his touch being ethereal and quick, it leaves a scorching trail. He stops as he gazes down at me. “I’m thankful for you. I don’t say it every day because I’m pretty sure you’ll get annoyed by it, but I adore you like no other. You truly touch my life every single day. Not a single day goes by that I don’t look forward to waking up just to see how much further I fell in love with you.” My heart pulsates sporadically, each beat a stutter that thumps harder than the last. “When I first saw you, I knew that letting you into my life was going to be a mistake.” “And now?” I find myself asking, shocked that I could even form words with how I was feeling. “Oh, I was definitely right,” he laughs, “the mistake being that I didn’t trust you and that I made it so much harder. I could have had this so much sooner if I just trusted you with my heart like I do now. That … that was my mistake.” <a data-passage="End"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“But we’re here,” I whisper, “I see no mistake.” “That’s because you have a beautiful soul. Hayati, I love you. Saying I love you doesn’t even feel enough most times. My need for you hurts, a pain so great and fulfilling that I wouldn’t be surprised if it devoured me. I’ve been waiting all my life for you, for only you.” I cling to him, squeezing my eyes shut as if this was all a dream, “I love you, Habibi. My love. My beloved.” We stay in each other’s embrace, neither of us daring to move, let alone wanting to. At that moment, the two of us were all that existed, nothing else. No worries for as long as we were together, all would be fine. I loved this man. [img[images/title.png][Setup]]
I snicker, not being able to hold it in as I ask, “how long have you been rehearsing that one?” A bit of his confident posture flees as he scratches the back of his neck, “a while. Too much?” “Oh, no, I’m not complaining. This view is doing wonders for my pores. I was just curious since grandiose staging isn’t really your style.” I get closer, trying to slow my rapidly beating heart as I place myself between his legs. He softly raises my chin, bringing my face closer to his, “sometimes I feel the need to change it up. Wouldn’t want you to get bored.” “I highly doubt that will ever happen,” I whisper against his lips, leaning the rest of the way to meet them. I wrap my arms around his neck, finding his lips to be warm and a touch sweet as if he had already eaten dessert. The warmth of the kiss causes me to melt into him, utterly content with delving and uncovering the secrets resting behind it. Caring little even if there was nothing to find. As long as the action persisted, I was fine. [[Dominant route.]] [[Submissive route.]] [[Conventional/vanilla route.]]
I take a step back, really wishing I had my phone on me or at least a photographic memory so that I could treasure this scene for a few more days. “Uh,” Rahim begins, but I quickly motion for him to stop talking. “You don’t just walk into an art gallery and just start yapping. You appreciate the view that those lovely artists gifted you.” He throws his head back and laughs, a sound that just made the entire scene five times better, “are you saying that this scene belongs in a gallery?” “I’m saying that my eyes have been blessed.” “Well, come over here so I can bless something else.” I shiver at his words, doing as he says and growing closer and placing myself between his legs. “That sounds promising,” I whisper against his lips, leaning the rest of the way to meet them. I wrap my arms around his neck, finding his lips to be warm and a touch sweet as if he had already eaten dessert. The warmth of the kiss causes me to melt into him, utterly content with delving and uncovering the secrets resting behind it. Caring little even if there was nothing to find. As long as the action persisted, I was fine. [[Dominant route.]] [[Submissive route.]] [[Conventional/vanilla route.]]
“Yes,” I immediately answer. No hesitation. No amount of doubt. He asked a question, and I damn sure had the answer. He licks his bottom lip as his free hand begins to massage his bulge. The sight caused me to shiver and doubt the reality of all of this. In a way, I felt like I just walked into some horribly written romantic story. A beyond sexy, unknown man was sitting on my table with no shirt, and I wanted to do nothing but ravish him. Though I suppose this was better. He wasn’t unknown, and instead was my boyfriend. “No hesitation whatsoever,” he chuckles, waiting until I was closer before grabbing me and pulling me the rest of the way. “A beautiful man is sitting in front of me. The last thing I’m going to do is be timid.” “Ah,” he whispers in my ear, “so any beautiful man would do then?” “You say that, but we both know no one comes close to your level of attractiveness.” He lets out a resounding laugh before leaning forward to meet my lips. I wrap my arms around his neck, finding his lips to be warm and a touch sweet as if he had already eaten dessert. The warmth of the kiss causes me to melt into him, utterly content with delving and uncovering the secrets resting behind it. Caring little even if there was nothing to find. As long as the action persisted, I was fine. [[Dominant route.]] [[Submissive route.]] [[Conventional/vanilla route.]]
“Just wait,” I answer, taking a deep breath, “give me a minute. You can’t just appear looking like some Greek god and expect me not to just take this in.” I study him longer, wishing I had my phone with me or something to capture it. I shake my head, “my thirsty ass needs some water, excuse me.” Rahim throws his head back and laughs, “$name, come over here.” I don’t tarry, making my way towards him and placing my hands on his thighs, my eyes lowering to gaze at his bulge once more. “Something on your mind?” he inquires, whispering the words into my ear as he leans his head against mine. “A lot of things are on my mind.” “Then, by all means, make them known.” Despite his words, I’m not able to do so as he moves his lips to meet mine. I wrap my arms around his neck, finding his lips to be warm and a touch sweet as if he had already eaten dessert. The warmth of the kiss causes me to melt into him, utterly content with delving and uncovering the secrets resting behind it. Caring little even if there was nothing to find. As long as the action persisted, I was fine. [[Dominant route.]] [[Submissive route.]] [[Conventional/vanilla route.]]
I pull back to let out a chuckle, wanting something so much more now. “You know what interests me the most?” I question as my hand wanders down to his bulge, massaging it roughly enough to cause him to groan from the action, “who told you that it was time to play? Did I tell you to present yourself to me like this?” He blushes, “no, ?master.” I slip my hands into his pants and pull out his semi-swollen erection, unable to keep myself from wetting my lips. Like him, it was a spectacular golden tone with reddish undertones and several thick veins running its length. His size a truly amazing and beautiful sight to the eyes. I admire it for a second longer before roughly slapping it, watching as Rahim grits his teeth in both pain and pleasure. “Then we both agree that you need to be punished?” “Yes, please,” he pants. I hum, really wishing that he had come out here at least with his collar on. “Come on, before the others see your dick out.” I lead him to his room since it was far more open than mine, and the last I remembered, all of the toys were here. “Middle of the floor, clothes – pants, off. Then display yourself to me.” He does so without question or delay, <<if $sa>>again making me want to have that argument with Syd about who had the most obedient sub.<<else>>almost making me not want to punish him … almost.<</if>> I grab the binding rope and, with him now naked, go about binding him appropriately, deciding to go with a shibari setup. Once done, I take a step back and admire my handiwork. With a content smile, I walk over to his dresser and look through the drawer, grabbing my favorite vibrator. “Ready for your punishment?” I question, and when he sees what’s in my hands, his eyes light up. “I am.” “Great,” I sigh, shimmying my pants off before lying on his bed, “you can watch me pleasure myself and making myself come.” Just like I expected, the eager smile drops from his face, and his body stiffens. I can even see his jaw tighten as his eyes roam my body. It would seem that he forgot that this was punishment. <a data-passage="TYD1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Rahim is the one who ends it, moving over to my ear and taking my earlobe in between his teeth. I pull back with a light blush, glancing across the kitchen and to the living room where the others are. “We should head to the room before the others see us.” “They’re not worried about us,” Rahim growls, pulling me closer but I again separate both of us, far too worried that something as a simple stray gaze would cause us to be found. I look back at Rahim, whose eyes are gleaming with both interest and a hint of a challenge. I gulp. It wasn’t every day that I saw this look, but it always meant something immensely pleasurable when I did. “I’m normally not this brave, but you can blame it on you pushing me away,” Rahim tells me, his eyes glistening. I hold my breath as he retrieves his dick, pulling it out and gazing at me. <a data-passage="TYS1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Can we take this to the room?” Rahim asks, pulling back just enough to where his words are said against my lips. “Afraid someone will walk in and see the present in your pants?” He pulls back, and I see a gleam in his eyes. Before I can question its purpose or what was possibly going through his head, he pulls me into his arms and once again kisses me. It was soft and filled with a subtle hopeful need. I wrap my arms around his neck as I deepen it. His lips wander to my neck as he undoes my clothing, pulling back only long enough to start removing my shirt. “Wait,” I say, tearing myself away from his grasp, though I don’t get far, “the others –” “Aren’t paying attention,” he interjects. He moves off the table and lifts me up effortlessly. On instinct, I wrap my legs around him, grinding against him as I continue to kiss him, savoring the taste of his soft lips, unable to get enough. With delicate actions he lies me down on the table, removing my shirt and then immediately attacking my <<if $showec>>nipples<<else>>chest<</if>>. I run my fingers through his hair as I bask in the attention and the feeling alone. I let my emotions and pleasure wrack my body, knowing that his empathy was picking up all of it. <a data-passage="TYV1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“Oh, let me go next,” Zillah abruptly says, “because I didn’t get a pie.” “Fuck this,” Rahim growls, standing and cutting off anything else Zillah had to say. He does so a little too eagerly and I sigh, knowing exactly what was about to be said. “You know what I’m thankful for?” he questions, “I’m thankful for the people sitting at this table who are actually happy and not complaining every five seconds.” He sends a glare over towards Amari, who pouts, and then Zillah. “And that number isn’t large.” “Excuse us for asking for one thing,” Zillah says, standing and pointing an accusing finger at him, “and not even getting that. You would be just as upset.” “Would I, Zillah? Or would I just be used to disappointment by now?” “Ha!” Sydero laughs, “I’m so proud of you. Finally, you’re able to put a name to your existence.” “Fuck you, Sydero!” Rahim shouts. Bradley and I exchange glances, his gaze begging me to do something. [[“Fuck all of you.”]] [[“Let’s all take a deep breath.”]] [[Sip my tea … punch … whatever.]]
“Fuck all of you,” I shout, “this is why we can’t have nice things.” “You’re right, $name,” Zillah says, grabbing Chris’s casserole. He moves forward to grab it back with a whimper, but he’s far too slow. “And most of all, fuck this casserole.” “Don’t you dare,” Chris warns. “If I can’t have my pie, then you can’t have your casserole.” Zillah tips it over, and it begins to fall, but Chris lunges across the table, tackling him and causing it to land on Amari. The table goes silent, all eyes on Amari’s still figure. She frowns as she grabs a chunk of the casserole and stares at it. None of us fast enough to react to her throwing it right at Rahim. Rahim growls, grabbing a handful of mashed potatoes and tossing it at her. This time Amari ducks, causing the food to splatter onto Sydero. “Oh, it’s on. All I wanted were flaky rolls!” I waste no time, hiding behind a chair as the dining room descends into chaos. <<if $gl_fj>>\ “Save the alcohol!” I hear Jeff scream, catching sight of him running out of the room with an arm full of bottles. “This is ridiculous, you guys,” Faye chides, “you’re all acting like –” Though I’m unable to see her, I assume that she was just hit with some food. <</if>>\ <<if $gl_roe>>\ “You know, I’ve never had a proper Thanksgiving either,” I hear my uncle sigh, “or a food fight.” He chuckles, and I roll my eyes with a smile. At least someone was enjoying their time. <</if>>\ [[Participate.]] [[Stay out of it.]]
“Let’s all take a deep, calming breath in.” The entire table, much to my surprise, does precisely what I suggest. “And now, ou-” The full word is unable to leave my mouth as something warm, sticky, and sweet-smelling slaps me in the face. I close my eyes, and a hush descends upon the table. Slowly, I raise my hand and dab at whatever now rested on my face, bringing my finger to my tongue and tasting the sweet potato immediately. “Chris, why is your sweet potato casserole on my face?” I ask in the calmest voice I can muster. My eyes are still closed, partially because I’m afraid I’ll get food in my eye if I do open them. “I … I didn’t do that. Trust me, I much rather it in my stomach than on your face.” “I did it,” I hear Zillah say and tune in on his voice. “If I can’t have my pie, then Chris –” Just like I wasn’t able to complete my sentence, he isn’t able to complete his as I toss what was still on my face at him. He shrieks in fear, summoning a tendril at the last minute and swatting it to the side, causing it to splatter onto Sydero. “Oh, it’s on. All I wanted were flaky rolls!” I waste no time, hiding behind a chair as the dining room descends into chaos. <<if $gl_fj>>\ “Save the alcohol!” I hear Jeff scream, catching sight of him running out of the room with an arm full of bottles. “This is ridiculous, you guys,” Faye chides, “you’re all acting like –” Though I’m unable to see her, I assume that she was just hit with some food. <</if>>\ <<if $gl_roe>>\ “You know, I’ve never had a proper Thanksgiving either,” I hear my uncle sigh, “or a food fight.” He chuckles, and I roll my eyes with a smile. At least someone was enjoying their time. <</if>>\ [[Participate.]] [[Stay out of it.]]
With widened eyes, I put all of my attention on the drink sitting nearby. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Bradley’s mouth drop in shock, but otherwise, he says nothing more. “Can we just all calm down and enjoy what’s on the table?” Chris asks, practically begging. “Oh, you want to enjoy your sweet potato casserole?” Zillah asks, grabbing it. Chris attempts to grab it back, but Zillah is much too quick, keeping it out of arm’s length. “If I can’t have my pie, then you can’t have your disgusting casserole.” Zillah tips it over, and it begins to fall, but Chris lunges across the table, tackling him and causing it to land on Amari. The table goes silent, all eyes on Amari’s still figure. She frowns as she grabs a chunk of the casserole and stares at it. None of us fast enough to react to her throwing it right at Rahim. Rahim growls, grabbing a handful of mashed potatoes and tossing it at her. This time Amari ducks, causing the food to splatter onto Sydero. “Oh, it’s on. All I wanted were flaky rolls!” I waste no time, hiding behind a chair as the dining room descends into chaos. <<if $gl_fj>>\ “Save the alcohol!” I hear Jeff scream, catching sight of him running out of the room with an arm full of bottles. “This is ridiculous, you guys,” Faye chides, “you’re all acting like –” Though I’m unable to see her, I assume that she was just hit with some food. <</if>>\ <<if $gl_roe>>\ “You know, I’ve never had a proper Thanksgiving either,” I hear my uncle sigh, “or a food fight.” He chuckles, and I roll my eyes with a smile. At least someone was enjoying their time. <</if>>\ [[Participate.]] [[Stay out of it.]]
If you can’t beat em, join em. I grab a bowl of green beans and begin to throw them at whoever gets too close. <<if $gl_rahim>>\ “This entire engagement is pitiful and childish,” Michael says in his usual uptight manner. With a smirk, I grab a handful of gravy and launch it towards him, ecstatic when he doesn’t sense the onslaught, and it covers him. He screeches, gazing around for the culprit, but I was already going after my next victim. <</if>>\ This wasn’t how I saw this holiday going. Added with knowing that once we were done, we would still be hungry and that we would have an entire dining room to clean wasn’t something I was ready to face. I duck into the kitchen to find Rahim and Amari. The plant-based turkey in her hand and ready to be thrown. “Amari, put the turkey down.” “I’m not holding a turkey,” she corrects in an innocent voice. She launches it, and I dive forward, pushing Rahim out of the way as it splats against the wall. “The sad thing is,” Rahim starts, touching my cheek and removing some of the mashed potatoes there, “I was looking forward to tasting some of this.” With a lopsided grin, I take his fingers into my mouth, licking them clean before pressing my mouth up against his. He holds me there, deepening the kiss as the screams and shouts of the others continue. When I pull back, he grins. “Tasty.” I give him a wide smile before getting back to my feet, helping him up and then going back into the dining room. “I’m calling a ceasefire!” Bradley shouts, and interesting enough, the food stops flying. He scratches his temple, “everyone proved their point. Can we just move on? There’s still a bit of food left. How about we just eat,” he glances at the food-covered walls, “ignore the scenery, and just get drunk.” Everyone, surprisingly, seems to agree. We all retake our seats and though there’s an awkward air hanging around, the rest of the dinner goes by and remains relatively peaceful. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I grab my half-full plate and move away from the table, not wishing to be part of this. The only other one who seems to have the same idea as I was Bradley<<if $gl_fj>> and Faye<</if>>. We watch from an inconspicuous corner. “I’m sure this isn’t what you had in mind when it came to Turkey Day,” I admit, a bit sad that this probably didn’t go as he planned. “I actually thought it would go worst than this, so this is actually quite nice.” I open my mouth and then close it. Bradley cocks his head to the side and frowns, “do you think they understand that we’ll be cleaning this up afterward? Like, this is our house.” “I don’t think they care.” We clink glasses and continue eating. Any stray food that seems to head towards us, I divert with my powers. “I’m calling a ceasefire!” Bradley shouts, and interesting enough, the food stops flying. He scratches his temple, “everyone proved their point. Can we just move on? There’s still a bit of food left. How about we just eat,” he glances at the food-covered walls, “ignore the scenery, and just get drunk.” Everyone, surprisingly, seems to agree. We all retake our seats and though there’s an awkward air hanging around, the rest of the dinner goes by and remains relatively peaceful. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<nobr>> <<audio "theme" fadeout>> <<audio "turkeyday" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.40>> <</nobr>> <<if $second_visit>>\ <<nobr>> <<if $food is 0>> <<set $foodfight = true>> <<elseif $gl_syd and $gl_rahim and $gl_chris and $gl_death and $gl_roe and $gl_fj>> <<set $all = true>> <<elseif $gl_syd and $gl_rahim and $gl_chris and $gl_death and $gl_roe is false and $gl_fj is false>> <<set $dads = true>> <<elseif $gl_fj and $gl_syd is false and $gl_rahim is false and $gl_chris is false and $gl_death is false and $gl_roe is false>> <<set $family = true>> <<else>>\ <<set $default = true>> <</if>> <</nobr>> Three o’clock was upon us, and the table was set, the last of the food finishing up. We had all gotten dressed, comfy clothes that were still nice to wear in front of guests. Well, everyone but Zillah had on comfy clothes, though I’m sure his suit was comfy enough to him. <<if $noone>>And everyone who was invited, already here.<<else>>And the first guest just now arriving.<</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $noone>>\ With the table set, we all take a seat around it. I take note that though we had a fully functional dining room and obviously a large enough table, we never really ate together. There were a few dinners, but that was it. Most of our meals were had at the island in the kitchen, and that was explicitly breakfast. It caused the moment to feel odd, though no less pleasant. “So, what’s next?” Zillah questions, “please say we just eat.” “We have speeches before that,” Bradley corrects, slapping Zillah’s wandering hand. “We go in a circle and tell the table what we’re thankful for. After that, we eat, and then I guess just hang out?” <a data-passage="TY14_NO1"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ ''Greet the Guests'': <<if $gl_chris>>[[Martha and Ryan][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>Martha and Ryan<</if>>, <<if $gl_death>>[[Death and Azrael->DA][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>Death and Azrael<</if>>, <<if $gl_rahim>>[[Michael][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>Michael<</if>>, <<if $gl_roe>>[[my uncle][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>my uncle<</if>>, <<if $gl_fj>>[[Faye and Jeff->FJ][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>Faye and Jeff<</if>>, and <<if $gl_syd>>[[Lust][$second_visit = false]]<<else>>Lust<</if>>. //Continue on whenever you like.// <a data-passage="TY14"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
In the invitation, I had stated for everyone to be here by at least three o’clock. A part of me wished to be surprised, and yet I couldn’t, when the doorbell rang at exactly three, and Chris’s parents stood on the other side. “Chris!” Martha shouts, about to hug him but remembering the dish in her hands. Instead, she opts to kiss his cheeks. “Oh, my lovely boy.” She glances around and sees me, her face brightening once again as she rushes forward. “$name! You are so beautiful. It’s so nice to see you.” I hug her and thank her for the compliment, choosing to ignore Chris’s father, similar to how he had chosen to ignore me. <<return>>
Instead of a knock to tell me of our guests, they materialize in the middle of the living room. Azrael quickly pulls in his wings to keep the tar from dripping onto the carpet while Death fixes his long black and crimson robe. “Are we late? I still have such a horrible relationship with time,” he states, and I approach with a soft smile. “No, but we talked about this. You can’t just materialize in people’s living rooms when there’s a door.” He gives me a warm hug, booping my nose with a satisfied and content smile. “I told you that,” Azrael whispers, and my father does a magnificent job at both pouting and blushing. “I see no use for them.” Azrael sighs, handing over a dish, “I also got this as your father was no help at the store.” “I am Death, for fuck’s sake!” he sighs. “I’m surprised you were able to make it.” His smile drops, and I nod my head in understanding, “can only stay for a time, I’m guessing?” He nods, “just a bit, I’m afraid. The death rates go up during your earthly holidays, and the reapers get a bit taken with the festivities and need proper guidance.” <<return>>
A single knocks sounds at the door and I answer it, frowning when I see who stands there, Michael. [[Be nice.]] [[Be neutral.]] [[Be rude.]]
There’s a knock on the door, and I hear Amari scream out that she was going to get it. Taking a quick break from making sure the table was set, I peek out to see who it was, excited to find my uncle coming inside. “Uncle Matheus! You made it!” I exclaim, unable to escape the hug he gives me. “Duh. Didn’t want your party to fall flat because your sensei didn’t show up.” “Ah, finally moved on from the Master and Padawan titles?” “No. Hell no. I just didn’t use them this time. Never insult me.” “Matheus,” Rahim greets, giving him a nod and stretching out his hand, “it’s good to see you again, sir.” “What did I tell you about that?” Uncle Matheus growls, grabbing Rahim’s hand and pulling him into what I can only guess is a bone-crushing hug. “You call me tío, you hear?” “Yes, si- tío.” Uncle Matheus releases him, moving on to greet Chris and Bradley while I look to Rahim. He repeats the word a couple of more times, biting his cheek to hide his blossoming smile. <<return>>
“Hey!” I hear an ecstatic voice scream from the living room, followed by an even more excited Amari and a chuckling Jeff. I walk into the living room to greet our guests. “How are you guys?” Faye asks, moving the dish that she had brought to give Amari a hug. “The usual,” she replies cheerfully, “how about the two of you?” Faye rolls her eyes as she glances at Jeff, who had made a beeline for the bar section, chatting up Chris and Sydero. “I can’t complain. Lord knows Jeff hasn’t made life simple or easy.” “An acquired taste?” I ask, greeting Faye with a large smile, joining Amari and Zillah. “I would love to agree but I don’t want to admit that my standards in taste has lowered.” We laugh as Faye takes a moment to eye all of us, a genuine and content smile on her face. “How are you and Rahim?” “What?” I question, hiding the blush that suddenly appears. I glance around for Rahim, not knowing if I was happy to see that he was missing or disappointed. “You heard me,” Faye chides, heading towards the kitchen and I follow, “did something happen?” “No, of course not,” I tell her with a reassuring smile. [[“We’re really happy.”]] [[“I fall more in love with him every day.”]] [[“We take every day one at a time.”]]
“I’m here,” Lust shouts, walking into the house with a large bottle in his hands, three imps following him and carrying bottles as well, “and I brought Spirtyus.” “Now it’s a party,” Sydero sneers, taking a bottle from one of the imps and looking it over, “is this from Wrath’s collection?” “No, Greed’s actually. I owe him five souls for each bottle, so be appreciative.” <<if $gl_fj>>\ Jeff appears between them, snatching the other two bottles from the imps, “I don’t know about her, but I am definitely appreciative, Mr. Lust.” He hugs both bottles close, “Chris! You ready to become a man today?” <<else>>\ “Oh, I’m appreciative,” Sydero looks towards Chris, “Chris, you manage to take shots of this, and you’ll earn my respect for life.” Chris attempts to smile but fails, pure fear in his eyes. <</if>>\ <<return>>
“Call it whatever you want, but I can’t help but be thankful for you guys. I’ve seen you guys go through so much. And even when the world would bet against us, we rise. This has got to be the craziest group of lunatics I’ve ever met, and I’m proud to be part of it. So, I’m thankful for us.” “You’re adorable,” Rahim whispers in my ear as I retake my seat. I smirk, “and you’re next.” <<if $family>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Fam"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $dads>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Dad"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $all>>\ <a data-passage="TY15All"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>> <a data-passage="TY15D"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
I stand and clasp my hands together, “I’m thankful for food. Because without it, would we even be sitting at this table?” “Yes, we would,” Bradley grumbles, “for the last time, Turkey Day is not about the food.” “Then why is it called Turkey Day?” “It’s called Thanksgiving,” he corrects. “Then why do you keep saying Turkey?” “Because I like … stop arguing with me! You know what, sit. Your speech privileges are gone.” I laugh as I do as he says, glancing over at Rahim, whose turn it now was. <<if $family>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Fam"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $dads>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Dad"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $all>>\ <a data-passage="TY15All"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>> <a data-passage="TY15D"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
I stand and let out a deep sigh, “in a world with so much death and so much darkness, I have to say that I’m thankful to be alive. To be able to stand here and actually enjoy it. Not everyone gets that chance. And sometimes, death is a mercy. I’m thankful not to be in that position. I raise a cup to all of those who didn’t make it, who are still trying to make it, and who have remarkably found their way out of it.” The table follows my example. That went by quicker than I expected, something that I was more than pleased with. I glance over at Rahim; it was his turn. <<if $family>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Fam"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $dads>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Dad"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $all>>\ <a data-passage="TY15All"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>> <a data-passage="TY15D"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
I glance around the table before raising my glass. Rahim raises a brow in confusion, along with Zillah and Amari. But Chris raises his, followed by Bradley and Syd. Bradley wipes an imaginary tear away, and Chris nods his head as if every word I wasn’t saying had touched him. “Beautiful, damn beautiful,” Syd cheers. I nod my head and retake my seat, doing my hardest to hide the smirk threatening to overtake my face. “But if I do that, I’m sure everyone will judge me.” “I won’t,” I chuckle, draping my arm around his shoulder. He raises a brow, “I don’t believe you at all.” <<if $family>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Fam"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $dads>>\ <a data-passage="TY15Dad"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $all>>\ <a data-passage="TY15All"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>> <a data-passage="TY15D"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\
Rahim stands next, gazing around the table. “What am I thankful for?” He scratches his head and chuckles under his breath, glancing over at me. “I think it goes without saying that I don’t say this enough, how much I appreciate all of you. You guys get on my nerves like no one else can. You press my buttons and make me sometimes want to tear my hair out. Sometimes I sit back and think that I’m the only one with common sense in this house,” he leans down and kisses my head, “yes, that includes you, $name.” The table laughs, and I’m pulled into it as well, my poker face falling before it was even adequately placed. “But believe it or not, I wouldn’t ask any of you to change. There’s something about this group that makes me fiercely loyal and protective. I …” he wipes at his eye, and a giant smile appears, “I would jump in front of danger to save any of you guys.” “And then chide us afterward about putting ourselves in danger in the first place?” Bradley questions, and Rahim points at him for confirmation. “Exactly. You guys are amazing. So, I guess I’m thankful that I’m here with you guys.” He raises his glass. “To true family. Sometimes it has to do with blood, but it doesn’t have to end there.” We all shout in agreement as we raise our glasses. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Rahim stands next, gazing around the table, taking all of those in attendance in. “Well, uh, this is awkward,” he chuckles, avoiding all eye contact. “I helped with the guest list, and I’m still standing here shocked that all of you decided to come.” His gaze flickers over to his father for just a second before lowering to the table. Rahim frowns, scratching the back of his head, and absentmindedly begins to search for my hand. I give it. “I … I don’t know what I’m thankful for. There were the obvious things, but other than that, I still feel like I’m at a loss. I would change a lot of things,” he glances down at me, “there are only a few constants in my life that I wouldn’t think twice about changing.” He shakes his head and sits. “So, I’m probably the wrong person to be doing this speech.” The table is quiet for a while, a few exchanging looks while the others just roll their eyes. My heart bleeds for him, though, knowing exactly what he was talking about and knowing that the chances of him ever getting the life he wanted was small. I could fix a lot of things for him, make a lot of things disappear. But that was one thing I couldn’t fix. One thing that would haunt him, and the best I could do was stand beside him. Ignoring the company, I wrap my arms around him, unwilling to let him go through this without my support. “Thank you,” he sighs, mumbling the words in my ear. I don’t respond, squeezing him before releasing a few seconds later. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Rahim stands next, sighing before speaking, “I’d just like to say that I’m thankful for this dinner. I doubt anyone here wants to hear some long drawn out speech from me, so I’ll keep it short. I still don’t know how I feel about this part of the tradition,” he mumbles, saying it more towards Bradley than the rest of us. “So, yea, thankful for the dinner and, of course, $name, but I’m sure that goes without saying.” He glances down at me, and his eyes sparkle. He looks like he wishes to say more but stops himself, frowning as he remembers all those in attendance. “Happy Turkey Day … that’s what I say next, right?” No one answers but everyone cheers in agreement. “Seriously,” he mumbles to me, “can we cut that part out?” “Gotta take that up with Bradley,” I chuckle. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Rahim gazes at me, telling me to skip over him. But it was no longer on me, everyone had gone, and they were already staring at him to see what he had to say. He stands slowly, releasing a shaky breath. “I … uh –” “Speak up, boy,” Michael barks, “if you’re going to speak, then speak.” “Would you let him,” I question, sending him a glare that doesn’t phase Michael in the least. “You know what,” Rahim interjects, stopping Michael from saying anything more, “I know exactly what I’m thankful for. I’m thankful for a lot of things.” Michael raises a brow, but Rahim motions to him to stay silent. “I’m thankful for Chris. For being able to have such a damn near wonderful friend whose motto is always, “is everyone else okay?” Who reminds me that even if this world is fucked up, that doesn’t mean we have to be. I’m thankful for Sydero, surprisingly.” “Hey!” she shouts right after taking a shot. “Because even though we had our highs and lows, she’s still an amazing sister. She’s still someone I can rely on and remind me that not every family member of mine is shit. I’m thankful for Bradley, Zillah, and Amari, all who don’t have a family anymore but still can open their hearts and let others in.” His eyes flicker to me, and he smiles, “I’m thankful for $name, whose strength is out of this world and reminds me that there is something worth fighting and dying for in this world. But you know what I’m really thankful for, absent fathers. Abusive fathers. Fucked up fathers.” He raises his glass, “because, without you guys, we wouldn’t be who we are today. We wouldn’t be as strong and as accepting. So, to our dads.” [[Raise a glass.]] [[“I mean … Death isn’t that bad …”]] [[Say nothing.]]
I raise a glass, “hear hear!” I shout alongside the others. I take note that both Lust and Death also raise their glass, taking a shot alongside us, while Ryan and Michael seem on the verge of exploding. Rahim throws his shot back, narrowing his eyes in satisfaction as he looks at Michael. I grab his hand and squeeze it once he takes a seat, “I’m proud of you.” “Thanks, because I have no idea what got into me.” I chuckle, leaning my head on his shoulder. His speech didn’t seem to ruin any moods besides the obvious two. The rest of us eat and be merry, ignoring the glares and silence originating from a dissatisfied Ryan and Michael. Part of me wondered why they just didn’t leave. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
“I mean,” I start with a low, nervous chuckle, “Death isn’t that bad.” Rahim gives me a look, and I shrug my shoulders. “Thanks for that, $name,” Death says, holding up his shot glass along with Lust, “but he’s not entirely wrong. I am your father, mostly in title alone. Not even I would dare to say that I’ve been an excellent father. Do I wish I could be, of course. But I will not make excuses. Like he said, to absent fathers.” He clinks his glass with Lust, both of them taking the shot as the rest of us do the same, excluding Michael and Ryan, who seem ready to blow a gasket. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
I say nothing, not raising my shot glass as I gaze around. I take note that both Lust and Death also raise their glass, taking a shot alongside us, while Ryan and Michael seem on the verge of exploding. Rahim throws his shot back, narrowing his eyes in satisfaction as he looks at Michael. I grab his hand and squeeze it once he takes a seat, “you okay?” “No, but I’ll be fine. The last thing I’m going to do is let this ruin my mood. I have you,” he says, raising my hand and resting a kiss on my knuckles. “Yes, you do,” I smirk. <a data-passage="TY16"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
Bradley is the last to speak, sighing happily as he gets to his feet. “I’ll make this short and simple. I’m thankful for my family. I lost my parents and was adopted in by the weirdest people ever to form the weirdest family known to man. But I love em. To Team Chaos.” “Stop trying to make that name stick,” Sydero pleads. “No. You don’t tell me what to do,” he says blatantly. “To Team Chaos!” I cheer, all of us raising our glasses. <<if $gl_fj>>\ “Excuse me?” Faye questions, gazing into her cup before looking over at Bradley, “I know what //we’re// drinking. But what is Bradley drinking?” All eyes turn to him, and before any of us can question or even think about checking, he throws the drink back, eyes wide and innocent. <<elseif $gl_roe>>\ My uncle takes a sip of his water. He had been clean for far too long to even think about drinking alcohol. He frowns and glances over at Bradley. “Joven, how old are you?” “His name is Bradley,” Amari pouts. “Ah, Amari,” Zillah sighs, “that was Spanish.” “Oh … hola!” Sydero rolls her eyes, “why does his age matter?” “That’s alcohol in his cup.” All of our gazes turn to Bradley whose eyes widen innocently. Before any of us could question or check, he throws the drink back. <<else>>\ “Hold up, I see no punch on the table,” Chris points out, causing all of us to raise a brow in question. He points an accusatory finger at Bradley, “what’s in your cup, sport?” “Damn Christopher, let me live my life.” “Give me the cup!” Before he can grab the cup, Bradley throws the drink back. <</if>>\ “It was wa – ah, that shit is disgusting! What was that? Oh my gosh, I’m dying. My throat!” he screams, coughing dramatically, though I had a feeling that he was serious. “I take it back,” Sydero snorts, pouring herself another glass, “cheers to Team Chaos.” <a data-passage="TY17"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ He works my pants down and then his own, planting a lingering kiss on my stomach before dropping to his knees. I feel his tongue gliding across my cheeks before he focuses in on my opening. “Ooh!” I gasp, gripping the table, realizing that I would need to be quieter than usual. He licks and sucks, causing me to whine into my arm, begging for more. He blows, and I bite down on my bottom lip, cursing at the sensation that courses through me. “Rahim,” I start, wanting to tell him how much I wanted his cock to fill me up. How I couldn’t possibly wait any longer. My pulse was skyrocketing, and my need for him was becoming unbearable. “Not yet,” he hisses, hardly loud enough for me to hear him clearly. He slips a finger inside of me, and I wiggle closer, encouraging him to go deeper and faster. “Yes! Damn, Rahim!” I say, and he shushes me softly, but I couldn’t care less about the others hearing him. My thighs tremble, and my breath comes out in short bursts as he inserts a second finger. A part of me is more than sure that I was going to come any minute now. As if hearing my thoughts, he retracts his fingers, and I get a moment to breathe, but just a moment. I feel his cock pressing against my <<if $sex is "v">>core<<else>>asshole<</if>>, and I clench my eyes closed. I anticipate what was to come, and even then, I’m not ready. I cover my mouth to contain my moan as he slips in slowly, damn near lovingly, anchoring himself by grabbing onto my hips. He situates himself inside of me, far easier for him than me. His girth and length combined caused the action to take a while for my hole to stretch appropriately. <<else>>\ He works my pants down and then his own, planting a lingering kiss on my stomach before dropping to his knees. I feel his tongue gliding across my sensitive skin. “Ooh!” I gasp, gripping the table, realizing that I would need to be quieter than usual. He licks and sucks, causing me to whine into my arm, begging for more. He blows, and I bite down on my bottom lip, cursing at the sensation that courses through me. “Rahim,” I start, wanting to tell him how much I wanted him. How I couldn’t possibly wait any longer. My pulse was skyrocketing, and my need for him was becoming unbearable. “Not yet,” he hisses, hardly loud enough for me to hear him clearly, pleasuring me with his fingers. “Yes! Damn, Rahim!” I say, and he shushes me softly, but I couldn’t care less about the others hearing him. My thighs tremble, and my breath comes out in short bursts as he continues. A part of me is more than sure that I was going to reach my peak sooner than later. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYV2"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ Rahim raises one of my legs as he pushes himself deeper, and it takes everything in me not to scream and moan out in pleasure. He wasn’t even as far as he could go, and I could already feel him inching closer to my spot. “You feel so good,” Rahim draws out, planting a kiss on the inner part of my thigh. “Raise your hips. Arch.” I do as he directs just as he pushes himself further into me, his base thumping against me before he begins to thrust. <<if $sex is "p">>I begin to jack myself off, matching his pace and feeling the tension within my gut rise.<</if>> “Rahim!” I repeat over and over, my legs beginning to shake as I rushed towards my peak. “Same,” he growls, slowing his pace but increasing his strokes. The shift in speed added with the power sends me over the edge. Rahim leans forward, capturing my lips and the loud moan that originates from me just in time. I can feel his cum upon my stomach, and when he finally separates, both of us are panting. <<else>>\ As if hearing my thoughts, he stops, and I get a moment to breathe, but just a moment. He presses himself close and I clench my eyes closed. I anticipate what was to come, and even then, I’m not ready. It takes everything in me not to scream and moan out in pleasure. He had only just gotten started and I was already nearing my release. “You feel so good,” Rahim draws out, planting a kiss on the inner part of my thigh. “Raise your hips. Arch.” I do as he directs. “Rahim!” I repeat over and over, my legs beginning to shake, I could feel myself nearing the ned. “Same,” he growls, slowing his pace but increasing his strokes. The shift in speed added with the power sends me over the edge. Rahim leans forward, capturing my lips and the loud moan that originates from me just in time. I can feel his cum upon my stomach, and when he finally separates, both of us are panting. <</if>>\ “Come on,” he says though I don’t move a muscle. He picks me up, and bridal style carries me out of the dining room and to his room. Once there, he lays me down on the bed as he stretches. My eyes take in his glistening body, sweat giving him a natural sheen and his muscles rippling. “Was that good?” I question, asking more so because of how he received pleasure. Him coming meant little in the grand scheme of things. It was just his body doing what it was supposed to do. “Of course,” he instantly says, lying beside me and bringing me into his arms. “It’s not hard to peak when I’m pleasuring you.” I hum, relaxing, and pressing my face into his chest. I felt safe and secure like nothing could touch me as long as I was right here. <a data-passage="TY18"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ <<if $sex is "v">>\ I cut the vibrator on, and he whimpers, his eyes wide and pleading for me to stop and reconsider. I ignore him, though, grabbing the lube off the nightstand. I spread it onto my fingertips before applying it to my core, gazing over at Rahim, who seems far more focused on the action than me. Once I’m adequately lubed up, I grab the vibrator and begin to run it over my clit. I let out a self-pleasurable moan as it stimulates me, slowly moving it down to my pussy and teasing it past my lips and to my entrance. “Fuck,” I hear Rahim grumble, shifting in his spot. “Mmm,” I sigh breathlessly, “your empathy making you feel every bit of this, huh?” “Please,” he begs again, his tone downright heartbreaking, but that just meant he was being punished the right way. I ignore him as I make sure he had a perfect view of me sliding the vibrator past my folds and deep inside. I gasp as a ripple of pleasure rockets through me. My head falling to the side as I begin to push it in and out. “Oh my gosh,” I whimper, part of me being a tad bit dramatic but, this truly was an amazing toy. I hear him shift, growling as he fought to loosen the ropes, but I had learned exactly how tight I should do them. It doesn’t take long for my orgasm to come, and when it does, I open my legs wider and remove the vibrator, letting it ooze out and watching as Rahim’s eyes widen in hunger and pure sadness. <<else>>\ I cut the vibrator on and he whimpers, his eyes wide and pleading for me to stop and reconsider. I ignore him though, grabbing the lube off the nightstand. I spread it onto my fingertips before applying it to my ass, gazing over at Rahim who seems far more focused on the action than me. Once I was properly lubed up, I grab the anal beads and begin to run them over my hole. I slide them in one bead at a time, I bite my lip as I let out a self-pleasurable moan. “Fuck,” I hear Rahim grumble, shifting in his spot. “Mmm,” I sigh breathlessly, “your empathy making you feel every bit of this, huh?” “Please,” he begs again, his tone downright heartbreaking, but that just meant he was being punished the right way. I ignore him as I make sure he had a perfect view of me sliding the vibrator deep inside and gasps as a ripple of pleasure rockets through me. My head falls to the side as I begin to push it in and out. “Fuck,” I whimper, part of me being a tad bit dramatic but, this truly was an amazing toy. I hear him shift, growling as he fought to loosen the ropes, but I had learned exactly how tight I should do them. <<if $sex is "p">>\ It doesn’t take long for my orgasm to come, and when it does, I remove the vibrator and turn to jacking myself off. It doesn’t take for me to reach my release and I watch as cum pours out. I glance up at Rahim, his eyes widening in hunger and pure sadness. <<else>>\ It doesn’t take long for my orgasm to come, and when it does, I remove the vibrator and turn to give Rahim the best part of the show. He watches with wide eyes, filled with hunger and pure sadness. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I cut the vibrator on and he whimpers, his eyes wide and pleading for me to stop and reconsider. I ignore him though, grabbing the lube off the nightstand. I spread it onto my fingertips before applying it, gazing over at Rahim who seems far more focused on the action than me. Once I was properly lubed up, I begin to pleasure myself. I bite my lip as I let out a self-pleasurable moan. “Fuck,” I hear Rahim grumble, shifting in his spot. “Mmm,” I sigh breathlessly, “your empathy making you feel every bit of this, huh?” “Please,” he begs again, his tone downright heartbreaking, but that just meant he was being punished the right way. I ignore him as I make sure he had a perfect view of my actions, gasping as a ripple of pleasure rockets through me. “Fuck,” I whimper, part of me being a tad bit dramatic but, this truly was an amazing toy. I hear him shift, growling as he fought to loosen the ropes, but I had learned exactly how tight I should do them. It doesn’t take long for my orgasm to come, and when it does, I remove the vibrator and turn to give Rahim the best part of the show. He watches with wide eyes, filled with hunger and pure sadness. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYD2"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ “Fuck,” I moan, straightening up as I peer at him. I gather myself before asking, “what did we learn?” “Only present myself when you say so, ?master.” I nod in satisfaction, “you can clean me up if you wish.” Rahim moves forward, almost stumbling in his haste to get to me. I lean back and watch as he laps up my juices, his tongue swirling against me, causing my eyes to roll up. I focus back in on him, about to kiss him when I notice the lack of collar around his neck. Once he’s done, I pull away and look at his nightstand, finding it there, “why didn’t you wear your collar to dinner?” I question, playing with it before putting it around his neck. “I’m sorry, ?master,” he mutters and then presses an apologetic kiss to my inner thigh, “I forgot.” I tug him upward with a raised brow. “You forgot?” “It won’t ever happen again,” he pants, his eyes focused on my lips. “You look like you really want to do something, Angel. What is it?” “Please,” he whimpers, “I want to pleasure you.” “Too bad,” I smirk, grabbing the ring in his collar and yanking him closer, “should’ve remembered to wear your collar. Guess you’re just a glutton for punishment today.” I motion for him to get on the bed, and he does so. I remove his ropes but tie them differently, this time focusing more on restraining his hands and erection. <<if $sex is "p">>I pump myself, already hard but making sure I was ready for what I was about to do next.<<else>>I then once again retreat to the drawer, finding my strap-on and returning back to his side.<</if>> <<else>>\ “Fuck,” I moan, straightening up as I peer at him. I gather myself before asking, “what did we learn?” “Only present myself when you say so, ?master.” I nod in satisfaction, “you can clean me up if you wish.” Rahim moves forward, almost stumbling in his haste to get to me. I gaze over him, about to move in for a kiss when I notice the lack of collar around his neck. I pull away and look at his nightstand, finding it there, “why didn’t you wear your collar to dinner?” I question, playing with it before putting it around his neck. “I’m sorry, ?master,” he mutters and then presses an apologetic kiss to my inner thigh, “I forgot.” I tug him upward with a raised brow. “You forgot?” “It won’t ever happen again,” he pants, his eyes focused on my lips. “You look like you really want to do something, Angel. What is it?” “Please,” he whimpers, “I want to pleasure you.” “Too bad,” I smirk, grabbing the ring in his collar and yanking him closer, “should’ve remembered to wear your collar. Guess you’re just a glutton for punishment today.” I motion for him to get on the bed, and he does so. I retie his ropes so that they restricted his hands. I then ready myself to take him. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYD3"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ “Are you going to forget again?” I question, slapping his ass harshly. “No!” he growls. “Are you sure? I don’t hear conviction there, Angel.” I slap his ass twice, watching as red begins to sprout. I beat the same cheek a couple more times, a rosy welt blooming over time. “No, I’m sorry, ?master,” he pleads, and I blow on the swelling, listening to him hiss and mumble under his breath. I shift my attention to his hole, lubing him up thoroughly before <<if $sex is "p">>rubbing my cock up and down his entrance in a teasing manner.<<else>>putting on my strap on and teasing his entrance.<</if>> “Tell me, Rahim. Do you think I should give you my cock?” “No!” “But do you want it?” “Yes, please. Punish me for my forgetfulness.” I see him start to back into me but stops himself, choosing to instead whimper. I decide to not wait any longer and begin to work myself into him. I was curious to see if I needed to spread him further or if he was already more than ready. “Look at you,” I laugh, cocking my head to the side as I work <<if $sex is "p">>me<<else>>the<</if>> tip in easily enough, “you’re already so loose and ready for me, my sweet boy.” I lean forward and flick his dick, watching as he arches his back with a whimper. I push myself further, picking up my pace as more of my length disappears inside of him. “It hurts,” he growls, gripping the cover in his hands, “ah, it hurts so good.” I kiss his back, the new angle causing me to enter him entirely, and he lets out a loud groan that sends a wave of pleasure through me. <<if $sex is "p">>I could feel my next release approaching.<<else>>I could imagine myself practically dripping now.<</if>> This meant that he also felt that onslaught. His emotions and body were being slammed with wave after wave of ecstasy. He throws his head back and pushes his hips further into my groin, grinding against <<if $sex is "p">>my dick<<else>>my strap<</if>> viciously. Spurred on by his moans, I pound into him. I grip his flesh, my nails digging into his skin as my thighs shake due to the actions. I ignore the ache. I wanted him to come. That was my goal. <<else>>\ “Are you going to forget again?” I question, slapping his ass harshly. “No!” he growls. “Are you sure? I don’t hear conviction there, Angel.” I slap his ass twice, watching as red begins to sprout. I beat the same cheek a couple more times, a rosy welt blooming over time. “No, I’m sorry, ?master,” he pleads, and I blow on the swelling, listening to him hiss and mumble under his breath. I shift my attention back to preparing him for me. “Tell me, Rahim. Do you think I should give you what you want?” “No!” “But do you want it?” “Yes, please. Punish me for my forgetfulness.” I see him start to back into me but stops himself, choosing to instead whimper. I decide to not wait any longer and begin to pleasure him. I lean forward and play with him, watching as he arches his back with a whimper. I go further. “It hurts,” he growls, gripping the cover in his hands, “ah, it hurts so good.” I kiss his back and he lets out a loud groan that sends a wave of pleasure through me. <<if $sex is "p">>I could feel my next release approaching.<<else>>I could imagine myself practically dripping now.<</if>> This meant that he also felt that onslaught. His emotions and body were being slammed with wave after wave of ecstasy. I grip his flesh, my nails digging into his skin as my thighs shake due to the actions. I ignore the ache. I wanted him to come. That was my goal. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYD4"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ His moans turn to screeches, a mix of immense pleasure and pain. “$name.” My name leaves his lips like a drunken promise. I reach forward and begin to furiously jerk himself off, knowing he was so close to finishing. “Come for me, Angel,” I whisper against his skin, planting multiple kisses on his back. He howls, and with one more thrust, I feel my orgasm hit me, blinding me. I had almost forgotten about my own mounting pleasure, so caught up in his. <<if $sex is "p">>I feel my dick release the tension and then the familiar feel of cum surrounding it.<<elseif $sex is "v">>I feel the warm wetness against my skin.<</if>> At the same time, I feel his cock spasm in my hand and then a hot liquid soon after. I slowly remove myself, and he hisses at the action, crumpling as I lick his cum off my fingers. He watches the movement, the desire still so strong in his eyes. I clean both of us and, once done, wrap my arms around him. I run my fingers through his hair as I press one loving kiss after another along his body. I remove the rope, and upon doing so, he cuddles into me, crashing into me as if I hadn’t just been inside of him. I can feel his rapid heartbeat, his panting, and the subtle shakes that overtake him. <<else>>\ His moans turn to screeches, a mix of immense pleasure and pain. “$name.” My name leaves his lips like a drunken promise. I increase my pace, knowing he was so close to finishing. “Come for me, Angel,” I whisper against his skin, planting multiple kisses on his back. He howls, and with one more thrust, I feel my orgasm hit me, blinding me. I had almost forgotten about my own mounting pleasure, so caught up in his. At the same time, I feel him reach his peak as well. I untangle myself from him and he crumples onto the bed. I clean both of us and, once done, wrap my arms around him. I run my fingers through his hair as I press one loving kiss after another along his body. I remove the rope, and upon doing so, he cuddles into me, crashing into me as if I hadn’t just been inside of him. I can feel his rapid heartbeat, his panting, and the subtle shakes that overtake him. <</if>>\ “Next time,” I whisper into his hair, “don’t forget your collar.” “For that punishment,” he growls, “I might just have to.” I let out a low chuckle, humming as we both quiet down, wholly enraptured by the other’s presence. <a data-passage="TY18"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ “Come over here, $name.” My legs tremble as I approach, eyeing him, and then his erection. He grabs my hand and places it against his cock, encouraging me to jack him off. I do, slowly, my mind half focused on him, and the other half focused on the sounds of the others. “Rahim,” I start, but he cuts me off before I could say anything more, slamming his mouth against mine. His hands wander to my pants, slipping themselves over my ass and cupping the cheek before massaging it roughly. The feeling of wishing to pleasure him slowly begins to overtake me, causing part of me to not forget but ignore the fact that we were in public. I make my way down his mouth, kissing and sucking on his nipple before going even lower. I lick a trail from his abs to his freed cock. He leans back, giving me more room to pleasure him. I lube him up with my spit, feeling as he gets harder and harder around me. Inch by inch, I take him in, letting my other hand trail and play with his nipples as I take in everything he had to offer. His hands play in my hair, softly coaxing me in the way that he was known to do. I slurp and tease his tip, running my tongue along the under part of his shaft. My only need was to get him off, to taste his cum. I bob up and down, using my hand to pleasure the base of his cock, while my mouth works his tip. I finally manage to deepthroat him, my jaw slightly aching as I take in his immense size. “Want to change positions?” he whispers, but I shake my head. “I want you to come for me first,” I pause, batting my lashes as I look up at him, “if that’s okay.” “Then keep sucking,” he says in a commanding tone that causes me to shiver in need. I do exactly that, continuing when I begin to taste the hints of precum on my tongue. He keeps my head steady, encouraging me to push him the rest of the way. <<else>>\ “Come over here, $name.” My legs tremble as I approach, eyeing him. He grabs my hand and places it against him, encouraging me to jack him off. I do, slowly, my mind half focused on him, and the other half focused on the sounds of the others. “Rahim,” I start, but he cuts me off before I could say anything more, slamming his mouth against mine. His hands wander to my pants, slipping themselves over my ass and cupping the cheek before massaging it roughly. The feeling of wishing to pleasure him slowly begins to overtake me, causing part of me to not forget but ignore the fact that we were in public. I make my way down his mouth, kissing his chest before going even lower. He leans back, giving me more room to pleasure him. His hands play in my hair, softly coaxing me in the way that he was known to do. My only need was to get him off, to taste him. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYS2"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ “Come for me, Rah,” I tell him, increasing my pressure and watching as his head falls back. I feel his jizz land on my tongue, and I take all that he had to give, swallowing it and then licking my lips. “Fuck,” he chuckles, “no need to be //that// sexy.” He pulls me closer. “$name,” he whimpers, his body shivering against me, “let me have you right here on this table.” The way in which he says it makes me want to come, a softness that causes my entire body to scream in need. I nod and bite my lip as I present myself on the table, watching as his plump and ready cock lines itself up with my opening. I bite my lip, whimpering merely because of his fingers against me hole, lubing me up. This was obviously not our first time, but the feel of his dick entering me was enough to drive me wild. He stretched me out, leaving me damn near vulnerable as he pushes deeper and deeper. I gasp, reaching out to cling to him, wanting to touch him. He leans forward with a smirk, and though I was now able to grip his shoulders, the new angle punishes me further. He covers my mouth before I can shout in ecstasy. “Want to be found?” he whispers in my ear, but I’m unable to answer. He glances around and reaches for something I can’t see. He brings his hand back and wipes it across my mouth, whip cream immediately touching my lips as he slams his mouth against me. He makes it a point to devour all of the cream, his tongue sliding against mine before cleaning my lips. <<else>>\ “Want to change positions?” he whispers, but I shake my head. “I want you to come for me first,” I pause, batting my lashes as I look up at him, “if that’s okay.” “Then keep sucking,” he says in a commanding tone that causes me to shiver in need. I do exactly that, continuing as he keeps my head steady, encouraging me to push him the rest of the way. “Come for me, Rah,” I tell him, increasing my pressure and watching as his head falls back and he does as I ask. “$name,” he whimpers, his body shivering against me, “let me have you right here on this table.” The way in which he says it makes me want to come, a softness that causes my entire body to scream in need. I nod and bite my lip as I present myself on the table, watching as he lines himself up. This was obviously not our first time, but the feel of him was enough to drive me wild. I gasp, reaching out to cling to him, wanting to touch him. He leans forward with a smirk, and though I was now able to grip his shoulders, the new angle punishes me further. He covers my mouth before I can shout in ecstasy. “Want to be found?” he whispers in my ear, but I’m unable to answer. He glances around and reaches for something I can’t see. He brings his hand back and wipes it across my mouth, whip cream immediately touching my lips as he slams his mouth against me. He makes it a point to devour all of the cream, his tongue sliding against mine before cleaning my lips. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TYS3"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>
<<if $showec>>\ “I can officially say,” he whispers in my ear, the feeling causing me to melt, “you taste far better than that.” “I wish I had your dick shoved down my throat again,” I growl in need. He moans in my ear, and before I can react, he picks me up. He holds me before bringing me down on his cock. My eyes roll up as I bounce up and down, biting my lip hard enough to draw blood as he pounds into me, his actions unforgiving yet so careful and gentle. If that was even possible. <<if $sex is "p">>\ My member twitches as my orgasm screams for release. I’m unable to hold myself, the cum streaming down my head as I collapse against Rahim. <</if>>\ “Keep going,” I say, still trembling. The idea of having him get off twice was enough to keep me going. He moves me to the wall, allowing me to stand but still supporting most of my weight as he slows his pace but thrusts deeper. My entire body screams as his finger slowly trails across my slick skin. He nips my neck and licks behind my ear. I can feel his cock stiffen. He was ready. “Come in me. Fuck, Rahim!” He does so, releasing his load. I push it back out with the last of my energy and hear Rahim curse, and then soon feel his tongue cleaning me up. <<else>>\ “I can officially say,” he whispers in my ear, the feeling causing me to melt, “you taste far better than that.” “I wish I had your dick shoved down my throat again,” I growl in need. He moans in my ear, and before I can react, he picks me up. My eyes roll up and I bite my lip hard enough to draw blood as I ride him. His actions unforgiving yet so careful and gentle. If that was even possible. I feel my orgasm pound against me and I’m unable to hold it as it unleashes itself. “Keep going,” I say, still trembling. The idea of having him get off twice was enough to keep me going. He moves me to the wall, allowing me to stand but still supporting most of my weight as he slows his pace but thrusts deeper. My entire body screams as his finger slowly trails across my slick skin. He nips my neck and licks behind my ear. “Give it to me,” I encourage, and he does so, releasing his load. <</if>>\ “Let’s get you to the room,” he murmurs, carrying me out of the dining room and to his room. Once there, he lays me down on the bed as he stretches. My eyes take in his glistening body, sweat giving him a natural sheen and his muscles rippling. “Was that good?” I question, asking more so because of how he received pleasure. Him coming meant little in the grand scheme of things. It was just his body doing what it was supposed to do. “Of course,” he instantly says, lying beside me and bringing me into his arms. “It’s not hard to peak when I’m pleasuring you.” I hum, relaxing, and pressing my face into his chest. I felt safe and secure like nothing could touch me as long as I was right here. <a data-passage="TY18"><img src="images/next.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>