Flare: Chapter 2-The Date- an excerpt

 

(This is an excerpt from Chapter 2: The Date)

Cher started her day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before heading off to work. As she assisted customers at her job, she couldn't help but notice Dolan entering the shop. He had a confident aura about him, dressed in a stylish black leather jacket, a white tee shirt, jeans, black high-top Reeboks, and sunglasses. A flirtatious smirk played on his lips, “I will have her,” he thought to himself as his eyes gazed at her curiously.

His intuition proved to be right, as Cher's hidden desires were not so hidden after all. Once the customer left, Dolan took the opportunity to approach Cher. “Wow, it’s a small world isn’t it,” she said, as she nervously chuckled, referring to Dolan's unexpected presence in the shop. However, deep down, she couldn't shake off the feeling that his appearance was not a mere coincidence. Unbeknownst to her, Dolan had done his homework and strategically chose to show up at her workplace occasionally, believing it would make it easier to persuade her to go out with him.

Cher's uncertainty about Dolan's intentions weighed heavily on her mind, leaving her feeling nervous and on edge.

"What time do you get off?" he asked.

"I get off at six," Cher replied, flashing a sly grin.

"I was thinking of taking you out for dinner. Would you like that?" he asked, almost as if seeking her approval, reminiscent of a vampire seeking permission to enter a home. He removed his sunglasses, revealing eyes that seemed even greyer than usual. Cher brushed off the peculiarity, assuming he wore colored contact lenses. Little did she know, Dolan requires a virgin; it had been a decade since he last had one. 

A virgin's purity rejuvenates him, and the energy she emits would help replenish his vitality, his youthfulness. Dolan, who is one-hundred years old, has spent a lifetime hunting and siphoning human energy. Many women who crossed paths with him found themselves ensnared in his intricate web of deception. By the time they recognized the dire situation they were in, escape was but a distant dream, forever out of reach. Among the countless women he encountered, he had the power to transform some into energy vampires, while others met their untimely demise. Cher, with her enigmatic aura, could potentially follow the path of those unfortunate souls. Yet, there is an inexplicable allure that captivates him whenever he is in her presence. During their dinner, he will probe her with thought-provoking inquiries, attempting to unravel the depths of her being. Should she exhibit qualities of value, he will contemplate the possibility of bestowing upon her the gift of eternal life as an energy vampire.

 "I accept your offer for dinner," Cher murmured softly, a faint smile playing on her lips. A rosy blush crept up her cheeks, betraying her shyness. Dolan, with a keen sense of smell, detected her innocence and purity. Thoughts swirled in his mind, contemplating the possibility that she could be the one he had been searching for. A satisfied smirk danced across his face as he casually slipped on his sunglasses. "I will be at your place to pick you up at seven," he declared confidently. Cher reached into the pocket of her blue apron, retrieving a notepad to jot down her address. She handed it to him, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. Dolan's smile widened, resembling that of a predator ready to pounce on its prey. "I can’t wait for tonight," he said, just as another customer entered the shop. Stepping back, he allowed Cher to attend to the newcomer, a smirk lingering on his lips.

Before she could finish with the customer, Dolan had vanished into thin air, leaving her with a sense of disappointment. "And just like that, he disappears," she muttered under her breath, a hint of amusement in her voice. Cher couldn't shake off the mysterious allure of Dolan, wondering what the night would bring. As soon as her workday ended, she made her way home and decided to give her friend Maddie a call.

"Hey, you won't believe what happened!" she exclaimed excitedly.

 "What's going on?" Maddie asked eagerly, curious to hear Cher's news.

 "Dolan came by my workplace and asked me out. Isn't that amazing?" Cher shared her joy, though Maddie couldn't shake off her doubts about Dolan.

 "I'm happy for you Cher but just be careful. There's something about him that doesn't sit right with me," Maddie cautioned. Cher was feeling perplexed by Maddie's disapproval of Dolan. She couldn't understand why Maddie thought he wasn't a good match for her. "I can't explain it, but I just have a feeling," Maddie replied, trying to convey her concerns without revealing the real reason behind her unease. 

Maddie had seen Dolan chatting with a woman with blonde hair, and they appeared to have a close relationship. She didn't want to alarm Cher, especially since this was her first real date, and she had been sheltered by her parents for far too long. Cher had always carried an air of reserve when it came to interacting with men, displaying a clear shyness that was hard to miss.

This intriguing combination of traits has played a significant role in her remaining a virgin up until now. Moreover, her parents deeply ingrained conservative values have further reinforced this decision, as they firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage before any sexual encounter with the opposite sex.

Adding another layer to the equation, Cher's upbringing was heavily influenced by her parents' Catholic faith, which has undoubtedly shaped her perspective on relationships and sexuality. Maddie expressed surprise upon hearing that Cher and Dolan were going out that night.

“Well, just be careful, not just physically but emotionally.” Cher acknowledged Maddie's concern and assured her that she understood the importance of setting boundaries. "Well, I guess I get it. I haven't exactly had any experience in that department, so I'm not entirely sure how to handle things if it does happen," she admitted with a touch of sarcasm. "I just hope he's understanding enough to realize that.”

"If he doesn’t, then just forget about him," Maddie advised. Cher rolled her eyes and replied, "Wish me luck then," before hanging up the phone. With her parents both working late shifts, Cher knew she had a small window of time to make it home before her mom returned around midnight, followed by her dad at four in the morning. She plans on closing her door just in case she didn't make it back in time, hoping her mother would assume she was asleep and not open her door to check on her. Since Cher is the only child, her parents had always been protective of her. 

Cher prepared for the dinner date by putting on a stylish cotton silk black mini dress. To accessorize, she added a gold choker necklace adorned with adorable heart-shaped charms. Her matching gold dangle earrings swayed gently from her ears, while two black and white bangle bracelets adorned her wrist.

She added a pair of black three-inch heeled shoes on her feet and complementing the look was her gold Timex watch, a graduation gift from her parents years ago.

Dolan arrived punctually, adorned in a fashionable black leather jacket that exuded an air of sophistication. Beneath it, he wore a blue button-up shirt that perfectly complemented his attire, along with sleek black jeans that accentuated his masculine figure. With an air of confidence, he led the way to his pristine white Acura Integra RS, a symbol of his refined taste. 

Together, they drove to a charming Asian restaurant nestled in the heart of Garden Grove. As they entered the restaurant, the host greeted them warmly and guided them to a secluded corner, ensuring their privacy and intimacy. The ambiance of the restaurant was enchanting, with soft lighting casting a warm glow upon the elegantly set tables. Dolan pulled out a chair for her, a gesture that spoke volumes about his chivalry, attentiveness and charm. They settled into their seats. As the dinner progressed, Dolan’s gaze towards Cher became increasingly intense, filled with a mysterious desire that Cher couldn't help but notice. 

She would occasionally avert her eyes, feeling a shy unease under his penetrating stare. Little did she know, Dolan's suspicions about her innocence were right on the mark. A sly smirk played on his lips, revealing his hidden intentions as he continued to fixate on her with a lascivious hunger. Cher, curious to unravel the enigma that was Dolan, wanted to gain insight into the man who was not only ten years her senior but also sought something more profound than a mere date.

 The silence was shattered when she asked, "Tell me, what do you do for a living?" In response, he simply stated, "I'm a security guard in Long Beach," without divulging any further information.

This lack of transparency left Cher feeling unsettled, as she couldn't help but wonder what he was hiding. Dolan, sensing her unease, decided to alleviate her concerns by sharing a fabricated detail.

 "I've actually been with the security company for about five years now," he added, hoping to ease her apprehension. A warm smile spread across her face, instantly dispelling any lingering doubts he may have had about her trust in him. In a gentle gesture, he reached out and delicately touched her hand, causing a faint blush to grace her cheeks. With a captivating gaze that seemed to hold a mysterious power, he confidently suggested, "You are truly beautiful. Would you like to come to my apartment after dinner?" The intensity of his gaze seemed to have a mesmerizing effect on her, as if it was pulling her towards him, tempting her to give in to his irresistible charm and join him in his apartment. However, Cher was unlike any other woman he had encountered before. Despite his attempts to seduce her, she remained strong-willed and refused to succumb to his charm.

 "Um, I would love to come to your apartment but," she hesitated, her voice trailing off. "But what?" he asked, gently grasping both of her hands in his. Cher shyly averted her gaze, unable to meet his intense stare. "Tomorrow, I have to do something that demands my attention, I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice tinged with unease.

Her heart yearned for reassurance, fearing she may have distanced him. Yet, he remained unyielding, undeterred by a single setback, relishing the chase akin to a predator in its prime. "How about we make plans for this upcoming Saturday? I'd be more than happy to help you with your homework and perhaps we can delve deeper into getting to know one another." She nervously chuckled, "Absolutely, let's consider it a date, or rather, a study date." A smug grin spread across his face, radiating a sense of self-satisfaction. Afterward, he escorted her back to her place, and as she gracefully stepped out of his vehicle and made her way towards her front door; his eyes fixated intensely on the alluring contours of her body. In that moment, he could perceive the vibrant aura surrounding her, pulsating with a concealed longing for intimacy. The desire to taste the forbidden fruit surged within him, yearning for her presence, yet he exercised restraint, for he knew that patience would ultimately grant him the pleasure he craved. Cher ascended the porch stairs and walked into her house. 

A Time Traveler's Companion: Chapter 19: Another Secret-Excerpt

 

(Excerpt from Chapter 19: Another Secret)

Trigger warnings: Sexual content

In the previous chapter, Mr. Smith sustained injuries during their latest adventure on another planet and was recuperating in the infirmary. Meanwhile, Remi, feeling restless, decided to explore the intriguing yet peculiar rooms and corridors of the monolith. As she wandered through the vast time ship, she stumbled into the main control room and inadvertently touched one of the crystals on the matrix table, resulting in a powerful shock that knocked her out. When Mr. Smith finally emerged from the infirmary, he discovered her unconscious on the floor and promptly carried her to his room, laying her on his bed until she regained consciousness. Although she had been traveling with him for weeks, once he returns her home, it will feel as if she never left at all.

I would like to mention that Remi is currently 18 years old and approaching 19. It seems important to provide this information for context. Also she still lives with her parents.

_________________________________________________________________________________

    I found myself lying on his bed. Rubbing my eyes, everything looked blurry then as my vision cleared, I looked around. My clothes were neatly folded on the sofa in his room. I lifted the sheets and discovered I was completely naked, I gasped.

 “What happened?” I said to myself.

“Mr. Smith will be in to explain,” said the AI.

“Oh great,” I paused and realized that I might’ve been here for a few days, well it kinda felt like it.

 “No, oh shit, my parents are going to lose their minds.” Mr. Smith walked into the room, his attire incomplete. He had black cotton pajama pants but was shirtless, and I found myself unable to look away; his face was etched with unmistakable indignation. Gradually, I pushed myself up and leaned against the headboard, wrapping the sheets around me for warmth. He came closer and sat down next to me on the bed. “Remi, do you recall when I warned you about the crystals?” I nodded, feeling like a reprimanded child. “I’m sorry,” I murmured, pressing my lips together and gently biting my lower lip. He let out a sigh and rolled his eyes. “You’ll be okay,” he said, then hesitated.

 “But what?” I asked. He shook his head, “It’s nothing, but please don’t let it happen again.” He smiled and kissed my lips. I got the distinct impression that I should be worried, but I decided not to ask him for more information. He stood up. “There is something else,” he said. I gulped, “What is it?”

“When you touched the crystal, the AI scanned your memories.” His brow furrowed, and a flush of anger crept across his face. My eyes widened in realization; he didn’t have to utter a single word. He had pieced together everything about seeing Melanie at the nightclub in 1936 and not telling him and going with her on another time travel escapade, which I had kept from him. I exhaled deeply, “I made a mistake, just try to see it from my perspective,” I implored. He turned his gaze away, clearly let down, before meeting my eyes once more. Rising to his feet, he faced me with his arms folded.

 “You’re not going anywhere,” he said, taking a moment. “I need to think about what to do next, alright?”

“What do you mean by that?” I asked, but he just stayed quiet, which made me restless.

“Hold on, why?” I paused choosing my words carefully, “Okay, I went with her, but you’re the one I choose to travel with, don’t you get it? And what’s the big deal about traveling with Melanie? What are you not telling me?”

“Do you really want to know the truth?” I nodded. “She’s only interested in you as a potential companion because she’s checking you out,” he replied.

“What do you mean?” He settled back on the bed next to me, his face close to mine. “She’s probably after another body, and I think she picked you just because you’re with me. We’re not a couple anymore; we’re rivals now,” he paused, “well I see it that way. I fear that she’s trying to snatch you from me out of spite. I shook my head and said, “You’ve got it all wrong.” Then a thought hit me, and I asked, “So, am I just your possession, like a pet?” He stared at me without saying a word. “So, it’s true, I am his pet, his plaything, maybe his next body, I thought to myself. I trembled. “She is afraid,” the AI interjected.

“Damn that AI,” I mused and frowned. Letting out a deep sigh I asked, “Can I go home?” He responded with a weary sigh, “Not at this moment,” before rising to his feet and exiting the room without a backward glance. Left in solitude, I turned to the AI, seeking to uncover the events that transpired between him and Melanie, leading up to the moment he crossed paths with me. At first, the AI seemed reluctant to share any information, but after a brief pause, a holographic screen materialized in front of me, coming to life and showcasing the moments of their last day together. I won’t sugarcoat it; my heart ached as I witnessed the tender moments they shared. The scene shifted to when Melanie entered his room, taking a portion of the money from every era known to man, before slinging the brown leather messenger bag over her shoulder. I spotted the quantum time manipulator strapped to her wrist. She probably acquired it without his knowledge, clever. In a flash, Melanie sprinted out of the room toward the main control room. Meanwhile, Mr. Smith was oblivious, enjoying a shower and unaware of the unfolding chaos. “Why didn’t you stop her?” I questioned the AI.

“I had no directive to do so,” it responded. My brow furrowed as my suspicion deepened. The AI displayed the location from which Melanie had escaped from Mr. Smith. It turned out they were in the 1950s, which explained the vintage attire she was wearing at the time. As soon as she exited the monolith, she activated the quantum time manipulator and disappeared. "I can't believe she actually pulled that off," I exclaimed. The AI then displayed the moment Mr. Smith encountered me. At that point, he had been on a quest through time to find Melanie. The AI revealed to me, "Mr. Smith had been searching for Melanie for quite some time, but she managed to stay one step ahead. It appears she found someone to help her remain concealed from him." I gasped and whispered, "Jack."

"When Mr. Smith found you, he had tracked her to that spot using the device implanted in her. However, she quickly caught on to his pursuit. With the quantum time manipulator, she transported onto her companion's ship, who was tasked to kill Mr. Smith. He was the man you saw on the hill." I was in shock, struggling to absorb this revelation.

"No," I breathed. A hush fell over the conversation before the AI resumed, “Her new companion took aim at Mr. Smith, but you stepped in front of him and Jack couldn’t get a clear shot. In response, Melanie communicated with him through an earpiece, instructing him to hold off. When you looked back up at the hill before entering the monolith, the man disappeared because he too has a quantum time manipulator.” I remained silent, pondering, then I asked, “Wait a minute. I do remember that moment and Mr. Smith had told me that the man I saw on the hill was coming toward the monolith and then he asked me to make a choice, to go with him or not.”

“Correct,” it replied. With a deep sigh escaping my lips, I found myself momentarily speechless, but eventually I whispered, “Thank you for sharing the truth with me.” At the time, the AI only revealed a portion of the truth. Tears began to stream down my face just as Mr. Smith entered the room. He looked at me, taken aback by my tears, unaware of the reason behind them. I doubt the AI was meant to unveil what it did. “I regret what I said Remi," he hesitated, "My love for you is so deep that I fear you might abandon me, just like Melanie did." In that instant, it dawned on me that his actions were rooted in his own insecurities. How could someone so strikingly handsome and full of life experience such doubt? I wiped my tears and said, "I love you too." 

He leaned in, his lips brushing against mine with a gentle urgency, and soon we were wrapped in each other’s arms, with an intensity that ignited every nerve of my being. He made love to me, his arms enveloping me tightly as if I were the very air he breathed. When he entered me, it was with a powerful thrust, dominant and passionate. His thick member stretching me in ways that sent waves of pleasure coursing through my body. Each thrust was deep and relentless, igniting a fire within me that left me breathless, teetering on the edge unconsciousness. Afterwards we lay in each other’s arms, enjoying the afterglow. As time passed, we journeyed to two different worlds. One was a desert planet, its crimson sands stretching endlessly. The beauty was breathtaking, with the winds carving serpentine patterns across the dunes. Scattered throughout the sands were numerous quartz crystals, but Mr. Smith was on the hunt for something very specific. “Mr. Smith, where are we headed?” 

“Ah, Butterfly, I’m on the hunt for an entrance to a tunnel that leads to an underground chamber housing an artifact that I’ve been seeking,” he answered with sincerity. I couldn’t help but smile and let out a sigh. He scoffed and chuckle softly, “What was that sigh about?” He shot me a quick look as he filled a small glass vial with sand and tucked it away in the pocket of his bodysuit. He stood up. I held the magnetic wave scanner firmly in my hands, my mind drifting back to thoughts of home. It was evident that he had no intention of returning me home—not yet, and a surge of anxiety flooded over me as memories of my family and friends filled my thoughts. As he stood before me, I asked with worry, “Will you ever take me back home?”

He sighed deeply, “Remi, I will. I just want you here with me right now. Remember, I can return you to the exact moment we left.” I nodded, feeling a sense of defeat. He motioned for me to pass him the gun and began to survey the area around us. Our helmets crackled with the AI's voice through the intercom, stating, “The entrance is thirty feet to the south.” The winds howled a bit, but thankfully our environmental bodysuits protected us from both the gusts and the intense heat of the dual suns overhead. And yes, this system has two suns. We’ve finally found the way into the tunnels. Initially, it felt like a cave, but as we moved deeper, it changed dramatically; stone steps wound downwards, and to our astonishment, large glowing crystals were set into the walls, lighting our way as we went down. Once we reached the final staircase, we emerged into another tunnel, where more of those radiant crystals adorned the walls, and the floor was lined with cobblestone path that we treaded on with caution. Then we faced a metal circular door. “What now?” I asked.

“I’ve got a way to open it,” he replied, pulling out an unusual gadget that resembled

a handheld scanner, measuring about six inches long and two inches wide. It was sleek and black, adorned with a gold stripe running through the middle. He positioned the device above the lock, and I could hear a series of beeps each time the key materialized on the scanner. The door opened and my eyes caught sight of another long tunnel. “Mr. Smith, where are we headed?” 

“I adore your curiosity, my dear. The AI will lead the way,” he replied.

 I held the magnetic wave scanner gun. He nonchalantly brought up that the large device is known as the MR-649. While it bears some resemblance to a weapon, it is more like a metal detector, well sort of. It functions on a significantly more sophisticated level, though. Mr. Smith keeps his pistol securely holstered at his waist. He said that one day he will show me how to use one of those sci-fi looking pistols of his, one day. The AI's voice echoed through the intercom, "You're almost there."

Mr. Smith exhaled deeply, and relief washed over him. As we rounded the bend, the rough granite walls of the tunnel gave way to a smooth, unfamiliar metal surface. A strange blue glow illuminated our path from above, guiding us toward a circular metal door that was securely locked. Mr. Smith activated the scanner to gain access, and with a careful nudge, he opened the door slightly and gestured for me to stay back while he assessed the area for any potential threats. Just as he stepped inside, a series of lasers shot out, illuminating the space. He quickly leaped back. “Damn it,” he exclaimed. 

“Will we be able to enter without getting killed?” I asked him, clearly worried about this venture.

“Yes,” he replied and called on the AI for assistance. The AI sent him a layout of the chamber and informed him of any booby traps that might be present.

(Images are for the readers entertainment)

GooglePlay Audiobook

FLARE: Chapter 11: The Perfect Ending Excerpt

 

(This is an excerpt from my book, FLARE-Chapter 11 The Perfect Ending)

Trigger warnings: Sexual content

Cher was busy preparing a banana float for a customer, but once the customer left, she noticed Dolan sitting quietly at a table in the corner. Her brow furrowed and she let out a sigh before walking over to him and taking a seat.

"What brings you here," she asked, her eyes reflecting a hint of sadness. Seeing him brought back the heartache she felt when she saw him with Olivia in her vision.

 "I wanted to see you," he responded, feeling a sense of awkwardness. "I never received an answer from you about the people you've been associating with lately. Perhaps we could meet somewhere and talk about it."

“Dolan, I am unable to disclose that information to you. I am fully aware that I am an energy vampire, but through no fault of my own," she stressed. "Nevertheless, I am committed to preventing others from falling into the same fate as me." She gazed at him with sincerity in her eyes. His gaze was fixed on her, a mixture of concern and confusion evident in his expression. He feared that he may have made an error in turning her into an energy vampire. However, he realized that if he had chosen to end her life, he would have never experienced the joy of being with her. “Cher, I understand your frustration, but the reality is that you are now one of us, and that cannot be undone. I urge you to cease your crusade against our own kind. If the blood suckers you attacked discover that you have been targeting them, it will only lead to conflict between our kind and theirs." As his hand extended towards hers, she quickly pulled away, a clear sign of her discomfort. His expression softened as he spoke, revealing a sense of urgency in his request, “I am your maker, please I insist you visit me tonight.” Despite his plea, she avoided making eye contact, her gaze fixed on something in the distance. With a gentle touch, he guided her face to meet his, his eyes filled with determination and authority, demanding her attention. In that moment, she decided to reveal a secret that had been weighing heavily on her.

 “Do you know why I joined the Hunters in attacking the vampires?” He waited for an explanation. The truth unfolded as she explained how her cousin had fallen victim to a vampire attack, sparking a personal vendetta against the blood-sucking creatures. “My father, a diligent police officer, had been looking into a string of mysterious deaths that seemed to be vampire-related, but he believed they were the work of a deranged individual. However, I knew the truth behind those killings.” She paused and went on to explain, "Tomas, whom I had been dating for a few months, but I hadn’t yet slept with him, discovered my secret when we finally engaged in sex. He discovered I was an energy vampire when I unknowingly tried to feed on him, only to be repelled by a religious tattoo on his back. It was then that he caught a glimpse of my monstrous face. In that moment, I came to terms with what I am and the need to make amends. I begged him not to end my life, revealing that I had been turned into a creature of the night against my will. He felt sorry for me and in exchange for sparing my life, he proposed teaming up to track down other monsters, given my ability to identify them. The reason I spared Leena's life is due to a pact we made together."

 "What kind of pact?" Dolan asked. The question lingered in his mind, unsettling him. “I can’t tell you,” She paused and stood up. “Dolan go home, and I will be by tonight.” She gave him a reassuring smile. He left and later in the evening she went to his apartment. As he swung the door open, their eyes locked in a fiery gaze. The intense feeling of desire washed over them, and she sauntered into the room. They found themselves wrapped in each other's embrace once more, their bodies intertwined on Dolan's waterbed. Cher couldn't help but take note of the unconventional choice of bed, but it didn't hinder their passionate encounter.

He forcefully lifted her, positioning her legs over his shoulders, and plunged into her dripping, eager center, thrusting with unbridled intensity. They were consumed by desire and lustful moments. He implored her to arch over the bathroom counter, and he thrust into her from behind with vigor and velocity. Despite her lack of experience with anal sex, he was resolute, and she was eager to please. Gradually, he slid into her snug anus, and with delicate motions of his sizable shaft, she climaxed as he teased her clit with his fingers simultaneously. They engaged in sexual activity in various areas of his apartment, including on the breakfast table. As they reclined on Dolan’s bed in the aftermath of their intimate moment, Cher’s thoughts began to drift. She pondered her future and the harsh reality that she would never be able to have children, because she is an energy vampire. A twinge of bitterness crept into her heart as she rested her head on his chest. Listening to his slow, steady heartbeat, she couldn’t help but wonder if he was truly alive.

 “But of course he is,” she mused to herself, “he breathes just like I do. So, what sets us apart from regular humans? Perhaps it’s the fact that we can live for centuries, much like traditional vampires. However, like them, we can also be killed.” Sensing Cher’s distraction, Dolan asked, “What’s on your mind?”

“Oh, nothing much,” Cher replied, “I was just thinking about the two of us.” He embraced her tightly, planting a gentle kiss on the top of her head. The room was filled with the melodic sounds of David Bowie's "Let's Dance" playing from the radio in the background. "Cher, please reconsider your pursuit of our kind," he pleaded, hoping for a response that never came. The silence unsettled him, causing him to question whether his life was in danger. Despite his concerns, he knew deep down that Cher would never harm him. In fact, he was certain that she harbored feelings for him, and he couldn't deny that he may have developed feelings for her as well. Throughout his centuries of existence, she was the closest he had come to finding someone who resembled his beloved late wife, Cestra. 

It had been a whole week since Dolan last laid eyes on Cher. After searching for her at her workplace with no luck, he decided to pay a visit to Maddie at her home. Standing at her front door, he patiently waited for her to invite him in, as he couldn't enter without an invitation. “Alright, you can come in,” Maddie finally relented and allowed him to enter, closing the door behind him. Dolan, with his hands in his pockets, made his way to the couch and took a seat, while Maddie settled in a recliner across from him. With a sigh, she asked, “What brings you here?” 

He responded, "I was hoping you might have seen Cher.” Maddie was taken aback by Cher's failure to inform Dolan about her weekend plans, assuming that she would share the news with him. Dolan's expression hinted at his confusion, prompting Maddie to provide an explanation for Cher's absence.

 “She went to see relatives out of state, I think she said Oregon, something like that,” she paused. “Do you want anything to drink?” Dolan declined the offer, “No, I just wanted to know if you’ve seen her.”

“I saw her two days ago,” Maddie revealed.

Maddie cautiously asked him about the status of his relationship with Cher, expressing genuine interest in their well-being. “So, how are you both doing? Is everything okay?” 

Dolan chuckled and grinned, “Define, okay?” He paused, “Besides the intimate moments, she barely opens up to me, in fact, she keeps parts of her life hidden." Maddie understands but refuses to disclose more than she already knows.

Cher doesn’t disclose much to her, especially since joining forces with the Hunters. Cher doesn’t want her to get involved. Maddie chuckled softly and said, “Did you know that they call her Flare? The Hunters gave her that nickname.” Dolan, intrigued by this revelation, raised an eyebrow in surprise.

 "Flare?" he repeated, trying to wrap his head around the unexpected moniker. Maddie simply nodded in response, a hint of concern lingering in her expression. Dolan's face took on a thoughtful expression as he took in this new information. It was clear that he was already formulating a plan on how to address the situation with Cher, showing his genuine care for her well-being.

"Thank you for sharing that with me, I appreciate it. When Cher returns, I'll ask about her nickname," he chuckled before getting up from his seat. Maddie accompanied him to the door, and as Dolan stepped outside onto the porch, he glanced back.

"Take care," he bid farewell before walking off. Maddie closed the door behind him and made her way to her bedroom. Once there, she reached for the phone and dialed the room number where Cher is staying. She is currently residing in one of the motels in Seattle, Washington. The group of Hunters are staying at the same motel, waiting for further instruction. Olivia's penthouse is the prime target, situated in a building owned by Olivia herself. Among the residents are a group of elite energy vampires, along with some regular humans. A team of more than 25 skilled hunters are prepared to eliminate the head Mistress and her followers, ensuring that no innocent lives are harmed in the process. Cher picked up the phone and answered it.

WEBSITE

A Time Traveler's Companion: Chapter 12 Excerpt

 

(This is an excerpt from Chapter 12: Traveling with Melanie)

It was September, and I was sitting in my room, completely absorbed in my laptop and the class assignments I had to finish. Out of nowhere, a portal popped up right where the monolith usually sits, catching me completely off guard. To my astonishment, Melanie stepped out of it. My heart raced, and I could hardly believe my eyes.

 "What are you doing here? My parents are downstairs, and as for my brother—well, forget him; he’s not around," I exclaimed, a hint of irritation creeping into my voice as I pondered his mysterious whereabouts. It was puzzling how he had spent nearly the entire summer out with friends, while I had been preoccupied with Mr. Smith and now this surprise visit from Melanie. It seems we both have secrets.

   “Have you thought about my offer?” I shut my laptop and pivoted my chair to face her, contemplating the proposal she had just laid out. With my arms crossed, I responded, “Alright, I’ll join you this one time, but I can’t shake the feeling that Mr. Smith might catch wind of this,” casting her a concerned glance. “You don’t need to fret about that,” she replied with a casual shrug. “Now, come here, little Bird, and take my hand.” She had a medium brown leather messenger bag slung across her chest, and from it, she retrieved another quantum time manipulator.

With a swift motion, she slapped it onto my wrist and secured it tightly. “So, how does this thing work?” I asked as I rose to my feet, curiosity piqued.

 “You just have to hold my hand while we travel,” she explained, her tone both reassuring and excited. “And where exactly are we headed?” I pressed, eager to know what awaited me on this unexpected journey.

  "How about we take a trip to the 1920s?" she suggested, her finger dancing over the button of her quantum time manipulator. In an instant, we found ourselves standing in a vast, desolate field.

  "What just happened? Where are we?" I stammered, a wave of nausea washing over me as I fought the urge to be sick. 

"Welcome to April 1926," she replied with a grin. As I looked around, a wave of confusion washed over me; this was supposed to be my hometown, but it felt completely foreign, stripped of the familiar homes and buildings that wouldn’t be built for another seventy-five years.

 “So, there’s absolutely nothing here, where do we even go?” She pressed another button and grabbed my hand, and suddenly we found ourselves standing right in front of the Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles.

Once a posh spot, it fell from grace during the Great Depression and turned into a rundown hotel notorious for all sorts of shady dealings. The hotel boasts seven hundred rooms and three hundred one suites, a massive space that holds a lot of stories from its colorful past. “Wow, I can’t believe we’re in the 1920’s,” I paused and added, “But our clothes?” I looked at my clothes. “Yeah, they do stand out,” she said and added, “We will go to the nearest boutique clothing shop and buy clothes that fit this era.” She waved down a taxi. The man driving the taxi looked at us skeptically.

  “Take us downtown,” Melanie said and gave him an extra fare. "How did you manage to get that cash?" I murmured, settling into the seat beside her in the taxi. With a playful wink, she replied, "Zyrius always said to be ready for anything," and she squeezed my hand gently. “I took some of the money from every era that he had stashed hidden in one of his drawers.” I glanced over at her and couldn’t help but think, “Hmm, perhaps that’s why he’s so mad at her, aside from the fact that she managed to slip away from him.” When the taxi pulled up in downtown Los Angeles, Melanie and I stepped out and began to wander the streets in search of a boutique. After a short stroll, we discovered one that caught our eye and decided to enter. As we walked in, the woman at the cash register looked us over with a puzzled expression and asked, "Can I assist you with something?"

   “Yes, we need clothes to wear can we browse to see what there is?” Melanie asked. The woman who was dressed in 1920’s clothes gave us a nod and smiled. The boutique seemed very elegant. I mentioned to Melanie, "Mr. Smith typically keeps clothes in the monolith, all set for wearing." Melanie replied with a hint of sarcasm, "Yes, Zyrius is always ready, isn't he?" Her eye roll suggested a complicated past between them, possibly one tinged with resentment. We selected several outfits from the racks and headed to the dressing room to try them on. Most of the clothes suited me well, and Melanie looked stunning.

   “Can we wear what we got on?” She asked the clerk. “Sure, as long as you pay.” Melanie pulled out money from her messenger bag, it was 1920’s money. The woman’s eyes widened; she is overwhelmed by the amount of money Melanie is carrying. “Um, I am an explorer; archeologist, and this is my assistant,” Melanie told the cashier as she gestured toward me. The woman breathed a sigh of relief. “Oh, of course that is why you both were wearing those other outfits.” She smiled and accepted the money. We walked out wearing fine 1920’s attire. Melanie waved down a taxi and we went back to the Cecil Hotel.

 “We’ll get a room here,” Melanie said. We walked into the lobby; it was very distinguished and classy. Melanie paid for one guest room, one bed and we went upstairs.

  "What are your thoughts on this place?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. I found myself captivated by the vintage charm that surrounded us, despite everything being brand new.

  "This is really impressive," I responded, my voice filled with enthusiasm. “But in my time, the Cecil Hotel is rather rundown and has a dark history,” I added. As I approached the ornate mirror, I realized my hairstyle clashed with the historical ambiance, prompting me to quickly roll my hair up and secure it with pins to achieve a more fitting look. Turning back to her, I nodded appreciatively and said, "It's truly lovely. I really enjoy it." A broad smile spread across my face, and Melanie's eyes lit up with delight at my reaction. She let out a playful scoff, her own smile mirroring my excitement.

   "I think I know why Zyrius, or rather Mr. Smith, finds you so captivating." I looked at her and asked, "Why do you think?" I sat beside her on the bed.

  "It's because you perceive the world with such innocent and refreshing eyes," she replied, a hint of admiration in her voice. A gentle smile crept across my face as my brown eyes locked onto hers, filled with curiosity. "I hope it's not too forward to ask, but what happened between you and Mr. Smith? What led you to part ways with him and how did you acquire the body?" She took a deep breath, her expression turning serious as her brow furrowed. "Are you certain you want to hear this?" I affirmed with a nod. She gulped, “As you already know, I was with him from the start. When he took on a physical form in the 1500s, his desire was to find me a vessel of my own. Unlike him, I was not inclined to inhabit a body, yet he was insistent on the matter. Our journey through the ages brought us to the late 1800s, where we found ourselves on a sprawling farmland in the United States, in Montana. Melanie, the person whose body I now share, used to call that place home. It was in that very spot that we first crossed paths. At just 23 years old, she was on her way back home from a day in town, strolling along a dusty road. She was balancing a canvas bag filled with groceries, her long blonde hair dancing in the warm summer breeze, while her ankle-length dress flowed gracefully around her. Her feet were clad in well-worn black shoes, a testament to her humble lifestyle. The young woman was minding her own business, probably thinking about her husband or someone that she loves, then suddenly the monolith appeared a few yards away from her,” Melanie paused as her mind remembered that faithful day.

“It horrified the poor woman, the sound that the monolith made was otherworldly; she turned to run but suddenly Zyrius touched a crystal on the matrix table and the woman froze, she couldn’t move. Suddenly, she collapsed to the ground, as if an invisible force was pulling her legs down, making it impossible for her to stay upright. 

Zyrius had completely transformed his appearance; he wasn't in those old 1500's clothes anymore. We had made our way to Tarislee, where he picked out a whole new wardrobe, got rid of his beard, and even had a fresh haircut. The change was striking, he looked nothing like the disheveled peasant he used to be.”

  “I imagined he had treated himself at the day spa, where he was groomed and pampered,” I said to myself. Melanie gave me a nod, “You’re right,” she said and continued her story, “He emerged from the monolith and approached the terrified woman. Tears streamed down her cheeks; she pleaded for mercy. “Hello, I’m Mr. Smith,” he said, pausing to kneel beside her. “Are you interested in joining me on an adventure through time and space?”

 His gaze lingered on her, thoughtfully assessing her, while his fingers gently caressed her flowing, curly locks. I was observing from within the monolith on the screen, noting how his eyes glowed with a predatory allure, suggesting a desire that was far from innocent. Paralyzed with fear, she could only stare at him in confusion, yet her hands remained free to resist as Zyrius seized her by the hair, forcefully pulling her into the depths of the monolith.” Melanie released a deep, weary sigh, and an uncomfortable silence enveloped us. I remembered that Mr. Smith had mentioned the same thing when we first met. It makes me wonder, if I had turned him down and not gone with him, would he had taken me anyway?

I heard cheerful sounds floating up to the room, it’s probably in one of the rooms, next to the lobby. I think in later years, they ended up getting rid of that party room. I wasn't sure if it was a private event going on, but I had a feeling Melanie would be interested in joining the fun.

 To fill the void, I asked, "What happened after he took her inside?" She let out another heavy sigh before replying, "After he brought her inside, the AI recommended that he examine her body. He gently stroked the woman’s cheek, then hoisted her over his shoulder, carrying her into his room while she screamed in protest. The AI revealed the horrifying details of his actions to me by showing me on the holographic screen," she paused, taking a moment to collect herself, a pained expression crossing her features, a blend of grief and distress. 

"He raped that poor woman." My jaw dropped in disbelief; I was stunned that he could commit such an atrocity. “After he was done with her, he turned to the screen on the wall and asked me, "So, what do you think, Ona? She has a body that’s just perfect," he said, his eyes glued to her while a chilling smirk played on his lips. “Ona, come to my room,” he demanded. I found myself standing in his room, revealing my true form to the poor woman. He forced the woman to look upon me," Melanie hesitated, shifting uneasily on the bed. 

A knot formed in my throat as I asked, "What happened?" I took her hand in mine. Deep down, I was reluctant to hear her response, leaving the air thick with unspoken tension. “The moment her eyes fell upon my true form, she was struck blind, a piercing scream escaped her lips. The AI embedded within the monolith revealed to Zyrius the course of action he needed to take, and I doubt I need to elaborate further; the outcome is already clear to you.” An uneasy quietness enveloped us, and I could sense the discomfort she felt as the memories of that incident resurfaced. “The experience of merging into her body was excruciating, a sensation that pierced through me like a thousand needles. Though her physical form lay lifeless, I could feel a surge of my own energy intertwining into her body, as if I were trying to breathe life back into a shell that had long since departed. The struggle was palpable, a haunting reminder of the thin veil between existence and oblivion, as I fought to connect with something that was no longer there yet still resonated within the depths of my being.” 

I interrupted, “I hate to bring this up, but when you took her body, did you find it difficult to adapt?" Melanie let out a soft scoff, a subtle smile gracing her lips.

   "It was tough, but Zyrius was there to help; he had more experience in his body," she said, her eyes wandering as she reminisced about their cherished moments together. “How did you manage to restore the woman’s sight?” I asked her. “The AI handled that in the infirmary,” she replied. A sigh escaped me, a blend of understanding and frustration rising within. "Ah, I understand," I said quietly. 

(Images used on this blog are for the readers entertainment.)

WEBSITE

FLARE: Chapter 10 Chaos (Excerpt)

 

(This is an excerpt from my book FLARE, Chapter 10 Chaos)

Dolan found himself caught in a web of conflicting emotions, torn between loyalty to his comrades and the unsettling truth about Cher's motives, leaving him grappling with a moral dilemma that could change everything. He's aware that Cher witnessed something real, but in a vision. He was eager to speak with her, but something was preventing him from getting close to her house.

He suspects that religious charms hanging outside her window might be the cause.

 "Hey Dolan, you really need to have a conversation with her, or at least with her friend. She confides in her about everything," Leena urged before getting up and headed toward the door. Dolan was deep in thought.

She turned back and said, "Catch you later," with a hint of disappointment in her eyes. After she left, Dolan made his way to the bathroom for a quick shower. Later, he lay on his bed, partially dressed, staring up at the ceiling. As night fell, he closed his eyes, trying to connect with Cher in his thoughts. Suddenly a vision came to him, it showed Cher battling a group of vampires. 

Startled, he abruptly sat up. Quickly, he threw on his long black coat over a black tee shirt. His black button-up Levi’s jeans fit snugly but allowed for easy movement. He grabbed a suitcase filled with weapons from his closet, taking out a retractable sword, he took it with him.

 With a sigh, he headed out the door. Arriving at the feeding den in some undisclosed bar and grill in Long Beach, he parked his car in the back parking lot. He can sense Cher nearby. He immediately heard screams emanating from within. Fear gripped him as he stepped out of the vehicle, his eyes wide with apprehension. Scanning his surroundings, he noticed the hunters encircling the building. All humans had been safely evacuated, leaving behind only those who willingly offered their blood to the vampires. A hunter pursued a vampire fleeing from the building, both disappearing into the darkness. 

“The Hunters always strike at night, damn bastards,” he muttered. “Get back here, you fuckin’ bloodsucker!" the Hunter yelled.

A pistol gleamed in his hands; its barrel pointed straight at the vampire. With a swift pull of the trigger, rounds of Holy Water burst forth from the gun, each bullet containing the sacred liquid. The shots echoed through the night, and the vampire staggered before collapsing to the ground. 

Dolan crouched behind the towering trash bins, his heart racing as he watched the chaotic scene unfold before him. Among the fleeing vampires and some humans that were donors, Cher stood out, brandishing a sterling silver machete amid the crowd.

“No,” Dolan muttered. He was unsure how to engage with her. Helpless, he observed as the chaos seemed to play out in slow motion. She wielded the sharp machete, decapitating heads as she made her way through the vampires that tried to fight back or escape. When she faced in his direction, he saw her eyes glow passionately as she enjoyed killing the blood suckers. No energy vampire has ever killed a regular vampire, not since the war that happened between them before he was ever made into an energy vampire. In superhuman speed, he dashed towards her, scooped her up, and carried her to his car while she was distracted. 

“Put me down,” she shouted, grappling with him, nearly injuring him with the weapon she wielded, but he seized it and flung it into the rear seat as he tossed her in the passenger seat. “Cher, stop," he yelled. Her eyes gleamed with a crimson hue as she hissed at him vehemently.

 “What happened to you? Why are you doing this?" he asked, as he drove out of the parking lot and onto the street. Cher composed herself and fixed her gaze on him. "Why would you do that?" she asked, her eyes reflecting a lugubrious expression and her lips parting in disbelief. Her eyes had lost their fiery intensity and returned to their normal state.

 “You shouldn’t have done that, you should’ve left me alone,” she admonished him for his actions before turning her gaze towards the passing lights of other vehicles while Dolan hurriedly drove to his apartment. 

“Explain," he interjected, his tone firm. "I need an answer from you." Cher remained quiet. Upon reaching the apartment building, he held the door open for Cher, but she declined to leave the car. He looked at her, feeling flustered. She met his gaze with a glare before finally stepping out of the vehicle. Glancing at her weapon in the backseat, she was stopped by Dolan's stern voice, "Don't think about it, Cher."

 He firmly held her arm until they arrived at his apartment, where he immediately switched on the light. “Sit,” He commanded her to take a seat at the breakfast table, then removed his coat and settled down beside her. “I regret leaving, and if I had been aware of what you went through after I left, I would have returned earlier," he expressed apologetically.

 Cher gazed at him, feeling the urge to weep, yet refusing to grant him the satisfaction of witnessing her vulnerability. He fixed his gaze on her, anticipating a reaction. A tense silence hung in the air. He reached out and gently touched her hand, causing her lips to part and their eyes to meet with a shared desire. Standing up, he took her hand and guided her towards his bed, where they both undressed in anticipation. With a seductive smile, he whispered, "Baby, let's share our energy with each other. I don’t want to fight."

(For those who don't know, Cher's eyes are normally brown but when she is aroused or enraged, her eyes turn silver in color. In addition, I try not to share the sexual encounters between the characters on this blog, The book is rated for 18 & 0ver.)

WEBSITE

LINKTREE

Chapter 11 Excerpt

Chapter 2 excerpt

Trigger warnings: sexual content