“I bought them online because I thought I needed protection. My grandmother was very religious and put a lot of faith in the power of these beads. They remind me of her, and they made me feel safe.” Eddie glanced down at the beads as Robert released them to lay once again against Eddie’s fine chest.

  “They’re beautiful, and if they made you feel safe, then they did their job.” Robert defended. He watched as Eddie slipped them off over his head and laid them carefully on the bedside table. “You might want to research them. They look to be vintage, and the design and workmanship appear to be French.”

  Eddie nodded, but it was plain to see that his mind was far from the prayer beads now. Robert could see the rising need in him just as he felt it in himself. It was time to claim his beloved. Eddie’s hands were suddenly upon him, pushing at the sides of his jacket. Robert helped him and took it off tossing it onto the chair with Eddie’s t-shirt. Next came his tie and then his shirt. Eddie was stripping him down, and Robert loved the eagerness of his touch. Going by his wide-eyed stare, his beloved was pleased with what he saw.

  Robert took him gently by the shoulders, pulled him close and kissed him hard, stilling the exploration of his hands. He then slipped his arm around his waist, lifted him in the air and gently tossed him backward onto the large bed. Eddie bounced once before steadying himself and raising up on his elbows to look at Robert with a wanton grin.

  “You better be joining me soon.” He threatened as the cheeky grin turned to a soft smile. A smile that Robert was growing attached to. It was full of mischief with just a hint of insecurity. Robert watched his beloved, capturing his gaze and holding it in a firm grip as he slowly unbuttoned his pants and slid them teasingly down his long legs. Eddie opened his mouth on a ragged breath and touched his tongue to his plump bottom lip, while hunger flashed in his eyes.

  Robert kicked off his shoes and socks before stepping back and sliding his pants the rest of the way off. He then hooked his thumbs in his brief and lowered them in the same slow teasing manner, never taking his eyes off Eddie’s face.

  Eddie moved to his knees as the sight before him filled him with thoughts so salacious that he was readying himself to pounce if Robert dares try to walk away. Robert was handsome with his clothes on, but he was stunning in the buff. He stood there, tan and muscled with a look that was all hard lines and dark shadows and yet he was the most attractive man in existence.

  Eddie was shocked that such a man would even look at him, let alone want to fuck him. “You’re beautiful.” He said very softly and raised his right hand as if to touch but grasped only air until Robert was instantly upon him pushing backward onto the bed.

  Eddie couldn’t stop his hands touching Robert everywhere he could reach, needing the sensory proof that this was really happening. His hot breath skimmed the surface of Eddie’s shoulder, and it almost made him come right there. He drew in a sharp breath indicating how close he was, and Robert reached down and stayed the near release with applied pressure points.

  “You’re the beautiful one, Eddie. I’ve never known a man like you.” His words were somewhat muffled by the fact he was continuing to rain kisses down the side of Eddie’s neck and across his bare shoulder.

  Robert then reached between them and unfastened Eddie’s jeans. He shifted back just enough to pull them and his boxers completely off along with his shoes and socks. Eddie was suddenly completely naked. He didn’t know where his clothes went, and he didn’t really care at the moment. They were naked and together on Robert’s large spacious bed, and that’s all the information he needed.

  A smile came to his lips when a firm roughened hand encircled his aching cock and began a slow stroking motion with which he was soon moving in rhythm. The masculine smells and hard muscles pressing against him had Eddie spreading his legs and urging Robert to do more.

  Robert took the hint and moved the hand that had been pleasuring Eddie’s cock and slid the index finger down to his tight opening and started to massage and apply pressure urging the ring to open. He slid further down Eddie’s body, and to his complete surprise and delight took Eddie’s hard leaking cock into his mouth and sucked it down to the root.

  Eddie felt his eyes pop out of his head with the explosion of sensation that intimacy elicited. As it were, he struggled to catch his breath, and his heart was in overdrive. Eddie was twenty-four, but he’d never had anyone touch him like this. Robert was a god, a supreme god. He knew he was making so many unmanly noises in his excited state and there was nothing he could do about it. The more he squealed and groaned the harder Robert drew on Eddie’s hypersensitive flesh.

  Robert marveled at the pure beauty before him. Eddie was excitement personified

  , and it was turning Robert on like nothing before. He pressed his thumb against the tight opening and got a sensual moan in response, so he applied more pressure as he deep throated Eddie’s hardness, and the man nearly flew off the bed. It was glorious.

  The taste was as sweet as the man himself. Robert began a punishing speed and vigor that pushed Eddie to the edge so fast that he suddenly stiffened, and Robert felt the first explosion hit the back of his throat. It was then that he pressed his thumb inside and began a dual thrust with his mouth and his hand. He brought Eddie to a state of utter mindlessness. He wanted Eddie at ease and in a state of consciousness that allowed him to feel and accept all that was being offered without the need for judgment or analysis.

  This would mark the true beginning for them as a bonded pair, and he wanted Eddie aware of every touch, every word, every action, and feel it right down to his toes. You only bonded with your beloved for the first time, once and Robert wanted his introduction as Eddie’s forever lover to be perfect.

  He drank down all that Eddie released and plunged his thumb inside over and over, stretching and preparing him for something much larger. Robert was hard as a rock and leaking pools as he forced himself to hold back and concentrated on his beloved’s pleasure and comfort. He had three digits inside working and making sure to hit Eddie’s prostate on every thrust and retreat. Eddie had his hands everywhere, which included running rapidly through Robert’s hair, but the feeling was ecstatic.

  Robert popped his lips off Eddie’s cock and moved up to cover him and drop a tantalizing kiss to those lush red lips. He seated himself between Eddie’s spread thighs and reached to the bedside table where he pulled out a tube of lube. He wasn’t taking any chances on there being pain that was not pleasurable.

  Once the area was thoroughly drenched in the slippery fluid, Robert worked the muscles a little more, making sure Eddie was ready. Those big brown eyes were watching him with a longing that tore him open, and he captured those lips in another kiss that stated everything he wanted to say at that moment. “I’m going to claim you, sweetheart.” His breath caressed Eddie’s cheek as he pulled his hand free and lined up his throbbing member to Eddie’s velvety channel.

  Eddie nodded rapidly. “Yes.” He said, his face flushed and his breath ragged.

  Staring into those enchanting eyes, Robert thrust hard, entering him part way and then rocked slightly as he eased himself fully inside a little at a time. He could see a flash of pain, but it disappeared almost immediately and morphed into a delicious moan.

  Eddie began to thrust upward to meet him, obviously needing the fullness as much as Robert needed to be inside. He took Eddie’s thigh and pushed it up towards his chest, holding it there and opening him wider as Robert started a truly punishing yet delightful series of thrusts punching deep into his silky softness and tight heat.

  Eddie felt the first thrust right down to the tips of his toes. The pain was sharp but lasted only a fraction of a second as it melted into a sensation that brought every nerve to attention. His cock was growing hard again as Robert treated him to a sexual experience that went well beyond his excited expectations.

  This man knew every spot that brought pleasure and ecstasy, and he hit them repeatedly. Eddie really didn’t want to think about how many times Robert had had sex in the past one-hundred and eighty-odd years. It bothered him to think about his man giving pleasure to another, but Eddie couldn’t complain too much, considering he was to benefit from that extensive education.

  “You make me tremble and burn at the same time.” Eddie had to speak, for the experience was too good not to comment. Robert gave a low chuckle and picked up speed slamming into Eddie in a way that increased the experience.

  “Touch yourself; I want to see you.” He said, and Eddie obeyed without hesitation. He stared into those sexy black eyes and stroked his hard cock bringing himself pleasure that was magnified by Robert’s skill as a lover.

  He could feel the climax building as Robert hammered home his need to go deep, and the moment he fell over the edge was the moment everything opened up in Eddie’s mind. The connection between them sharpened to a fine point.

  When Robert came, Eddie felt his essence flooding his channel and filling him with a warmth that spread through his entire system. Before he had a chance to contemplate the flood of feeling, Robert struck, he held him close and immobile then sunk his teeth into Eddie’s neck. He expected pain, but instead, he got euphoria. He felt it blast through him as he stiffened and came again; he filled the space between them with his warm stickiness.

  The act was intimate in the extreme, and Eddie slowly came down from the most powerful high of his life as lights and sensations pinged about within his mind and body. In the end, he was left with a connection that was literally tangible.

  This was the bond he spoke of; it was the joining of their minds, and Eddie could clearly feel the exertion and the exultation that presently overwhelmed Robert’s being. The sensations and recognition of feelings that were not his own embraced him.

  Robert extracted his teeth, and Eddie felt him lick the wound which just heightened the sensitivity of the area. “Our bond is complete, Eddie, you are my beloved, and I am yours. The connection allows us to feel the emotion of the other but not read their minds. It’s there to keep one another safe and happy, not intrude.

  “Can you feel me?” Eddie asked.

  “I sense your emotions, and I know you’re sated and satisfied.” Robert finished with a wicked smile and slowly pulled out and rolling to the side; he gathered Eddie into his arms. “Let’s rest and then clean up and find something to eat. Are you hungry my love?”

  Eddie was famished now that he thought about it, but nothing could pry him out of Robert’s arms at the moment, not even hunger. He snuggled closer, and Robert reached over and tugged the comforter over to cover them both.

  “Rest.” He said, and Eddie tucked his head under Robert’s chin and fell asleep. In Robert’s arms, all things seemed right and wonderful.

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  Robert got up and ordered dinner, letting Eddie sleep for a while longer. They would have dinner, and then he would take Eddie to meet Master DuCane. The Master had asked for a meeting in order to hopefully ascertain the cause of the Caen’s interest in Eddie.

  Master DuCane was the most powerful of all vampires, and he would be able to get through any magic veils or spells that may be clouding the issue. He’d had plenty of run-ins with the Caen during the dark ages and was familiar with their edicts and goals. They were a terrifying group of vampires, but then so were DuCane’s.

  Robert felt a rush of pride in presenting his beloved Eddie Boone to his Master. Eddie was a soul unlike any in this coven, and his inclusion would be positive and stimulating for a people who had grown somewhat jaded over the years. He felt the change in his own attitude, and he knew Eddie would inspire others as well.

  Eddie was a good man and deserved a good life, which Robert intended to provide in spades. No more busing tables or taking shit from his uncle. Eddie would be allowed to pursue his dreams whatever they may be, and Robert would support him in every way possible.

  With that thought fresh in his mind, Robert walked into the bedroom and stretched out next to his sleeping beloved. He needed to wake him and ask him what his dreams were. They’d talked about many things but hopes and dreams had not come up. He placed a kiss on Eddie’s forehead and cupped the side of his face. He watched as he slowly came awake with bright eyes and a welcoming smile.

  Those eyes, he would never tire of those soulful eyes if he lived to be a thousand. “I ordered dinner, and it should arrive shortly.” He informed and kissed him again. “If you want to shower, I had your clothes laundered, and they’re folded in the chair.” Eddie reached up and silently traced the outline of Robert’s lips with his thumb, so gentle, so loving.

  Robert lay there, letting his gaze travel over Eddie’s soft features and realized that somewhere along the line in the past day, he’d fallen in love. It was there, he felt it in the tightness of his heart, and in the neediness of his gaze, he loved this man.

  “A shower would be nice, but this bed is so comfortable. I don’t think I have the energy to move. You wore me out, in the most amazing way possible, of course.” The corner of his mouth hiked up in a half-smile and Robert’s heart just continued to melt.

  “Let me help.” Robert pulled back the comforter and took in young man’s naked beauty for a moment before scooping him up in his arms and carrying him into the bathroom.

  “I could get used to this, Robert.” Eddie mused.

  “I hope you do, sweetheart.” Robert held him secure with one arm as he adjusted the temperature of the shower. “There now, that should feel good against any soreness you’re experiencing.” Eddie barked a laugh at his inference before being set on his feet. He stepped inside the shower, and Robert handed him a fresh washcloth.

  “Soap and shampoo are there in the corner, feel free to use them. Is there anything else you need?” Robert was tempted to strip and join him as he watched the water run down his body making his skin glisten in the light.

  Eddie looked up at him with another of those sweet smiles. “No, everything I need is right here.” They stared at one another for a few seconds, feeling the arousal of desire spike between them before Robert spoke and broke the spell.

  “Okay, come out when you’re done, and dinner will be ready.” He closed the shower door and left the bathroom before he succumbed to the lure of that lovely body.

  …

  Eddie finished his shower and, while dressing, decided to send Joe a text. He wanted to make sure he was okay and let him know that he was staying at the DuCane Palace. It was just a short message because Eddie was ravenously hungry, and dinner was waiting for him beyond the bedroom door and didn’t want to get caught up in a lengthy conversation.

  He didn’t tell him Joe about the ambush on the road here or the blood bath that ensued. Joe was very sensitive, and any sadness or pain really upset him. He also didn’t tell him about his relationship with Robert. It was too personal, and he didn’t feel right discussing the man. Robert was too important to him to be idly discussed. Eddie slipped his phone into his pocket and slipped the rosary beads around his neck and tucked them under his shirt before he went out to meet Robert in the other room.

  The meal was just as exceptional as the place. It was better than anything Giovanni’s Restaurant could attempt. It was dining suitable for royalty in Eddie’s opinion. “That was delicious. Thank you.” He said when they finished, and the tray was rolled into the outer hallway.

  “Here.” Robert handed him a glass of brandy, and they went to the living room to sit down on the sofa. It was situated in a way that you could look out the large living room window and see a beautiful garden beyond. It looked as if it stretched for miles and was meticulously manicured.

  “I wouldn’t want to have to take care of these grounds.” He commented as he sipped his brandy. It was nice and relaxing with Robert at his side and brandy in his hand. “They’re massive.”

  “We have a staff of gardeners and landscape artists who care for it, and they love their work,” Robert responded.

  “It shows,” Eddie added, and then silence ensued for a few minutes as each man took in the beauty and companionship of the moment.

  It was getting late, and the sun was beginning to set, showing the garden in the most beautiful light and color. “Do you think we could take a walk in your garden?” Eddie wanted to feel the fresh air and stretch his legs. The Palace was awesome but also a bit overwhelming even there in Robert’s private quarters Eddie was beginning to feel a little like a fraud. Bonding with Robert had brought him strength and confidence and a sense of belonging, but now, as he sat there thinking it seemed so unreal.

  Robert watched the emotions chase each other across Eddie’s countenance. First, it was contentment and then uncertainty followed by what looked like sadness. He opened up and felt the cloud of melancholy wrapping itself around his beloved. Something had come to mind that had pushed away the smiles that Robert so loved.

  “Of course, my love.” He said and stood to reach out his hand for Eddie to take it. His hand was warm and strong as Robert pulled him to his feet and slipped his arm around Eddie’s waist and they walked towards the door. But before they got there, Eddie stopped and looked up at Robert with a mixture of irritation and turmoil. “What’s wrong?” He stepped back but held onto both of Eddie’s hands, channeling comfort through their bond.

  Eddie dropped his gaze and then nervously looked around the room as if having trouble finding his words. “What does this mean? I heard you explain in the car and I understood most of it. The claiming was beyond fantastic, but what does it mean? I don’t feel like I belong here. It’s too much too stately and majestic. I’m Eddie Boone, and this isn’t my life.” Eddie’s nervousness seemed to ratchet up as Robert stared at him.

  He knew he should answer, but he needed the right words. Eddie was feeling out of place, and Robert was trying desperately to calm him with his touch. He ran his hands up Eddie’s arms and pulled him in for a full-body hug. Eddie always responded to intimate touch, and he needed to reassure him.