Big nod to Charlaine Harris for creating this alternate universe. No copyright infringement intended.

Hello again and welcome to my silly little corner of the ff world. Thank you for all the reviews and flags. It makes this process that much sweeter and as a thank you, I've cooked up some lemony goodness.

*This chapter does contain a graphic sexual act that may not be everyone's cup of tea. If it's not your thing, that's cool but please don't splash cold water on the rest of us*

Chapter 4

The next thing I knew, sunlight was streaming through a crack in the curtains. I squinted as I woke, a little disoriented. However, the cobwebs cleared when I rolled over and found a red rose and a note instead of my Viking's body. I glanced towards the closet, absentmindedly brushing the fragrant bloom against my cheek, and opened the letter.

Min Älskling Fru,

I enjoyed our time together last night and plan to take you to the beach more often. Since you don't possess my photographic mind, I've purchased a camera. You'll find it inside our suitcase's front pocket. I've heard pictures can trigger memories decades after an event and I want you to remember this trip as clearly as I will. The salesman promised it is easy to use. Please tell me if it is otherwise and I'll remedy that. If you choose to explore the city today, I've advised the queen's staff you won't need an escort. However, take one of the Britlingens with you. I'll rest easier knowing you are in their care.

Your Devoted Husband,

E

P.S. Pick up the room phone and press 0. The staff will bring you anything you wish to eat.

I smiled and hopped out of bed, heading strait for the closet. Once inside, I turned on the light, unzipped our suitcase and retrieved my new camera and the accompanying instructions. Luckily for him, the salesman hadn't lied and they didn't call it a Kodak Easy Share for nothing. I would have fiddled longer, but nature called so I quickly found the second door hidden behind a rack of clothes and opened it. Except for the guest coffin, the tiny room was completely empty and although I wasn't thrilled with the atmosphere, I needed to see my Viking. Slowly, I opened the coffin lid, leaned down and kissed Eric's cool lips.

"Thank you for my present Honey. I love you," I whispered then lingered a moment before closing the lid and quietly leaving.

Hastily, I took care of my human needs then dressed and threw open the drapes. It was a perfect sunny day and I moved onto the balcony, luxuriating in the warm breeze. Now that I had a better view, I noticed the corner of a swimming pool below and the crystal clear water beckoned. A quick time check revealed it was nearly three and I decided it'd be best to stay put. That new bikini was going to come in handy after all, but first things first. I needed to eat so I popped my head into the hall and addressed the Britlingens.

"Hi Y'all," I smiled. "I'm fixin' to order lunch and thought you might be hungry too. Would you like anything?"

The warriors bowed respectfully. "That won't be necessary Mrs. Northman," Ukweli replied. "We have our own sustenance as your food is akin to sheep excrement." My stomach churned at that mental image though I earned a slight smile from both B's.

"Umm, ok then," I stammered. "When I'm finished, and if it's permitted, I'd like to do a little sunbathing."

"I will accompany you," Matokeo said. "Ukweli will stay and guard your husband."

"Thank you," I replied. "I should be ready within the hour."

When I called down to order, an older English gentleman answered. He introduced himself as Edwards and advised he'd be my personal butler. While I wondered what exactly a butler did, Edwards promised to prepare the best turkey, avocado and bacon sandwich I'd ever had. Ten minutes later, he delivered it, together with fresh sliced mango and iced tea.

As the little man cheerfully carried in the silver tray and set it on the table, I mused he was just as I'd imagined. His hair, or what was left of it, was salt and peppered and his skin crinkled and aged but he was polished right down to his white gloves and shiny black shoes.

"A car is available Madam," he said in his crisp British accent. "Will you be sightseeing today?"

"Thank you Edwards, but I'd rather wait for my husband," I replied. "Would it be alright to use the pool?"

"Of course Madam. Her Majesty had it cleaned yesterday in preparation for your arrival. There are towels in the cabana and you are welcome to anything in this closet."

"That's so thoughtful," I remarked then asked. "How long have you worked for the queen?"

The butler's face brightened. "I've been in Her Majesty's service since my thirtieth year just as my father and father's father before me. My son will take my place next summer." While he spoke, Edwards also managed to seat me and place a napkin in my lap. He was very efficient.

"Sounds like she's a good employer," I smiled and Edwards returned the gesture.

"She has treated my family well. We are honored to serve her."

Though I knew it was impolite, I couldn't help but dip into his mind. He was a were of some kind and I relaxed when I found nothing ominous. The fuzzy pictures I saw showed a very comfortable life and he was proud of his family's legacy.

"Madam," Edwards said curtly, and I could swear he shot me a I know what you just did look. "If you'll not be needing anything else, I'll have the cabana prepared."

I glanced at the floor, feeling ashamed. "Yes. Of course. Thank you Edwards." He turned to leave but I jumped up and stopped him. "I'm sorry," I said. "That was rude and you've been nothing but professional and kind."

The old man softened. "It must be difficult for you Madam. I can see why your vampire's silence would be so comforting." He tapped my arm as a grandfather would and left.

Happy I hadn't completely offended him, I sat at the table and leisurely enjoyed my meal. It was delicious! The fresh roasted turkey melted in my mouth and all the flavors blended well with the spicy mayonnaise. When I bit into a mango slice, its juices dripped down my chin and I made a naughty mental note to order more later when Eric was awake.

Once I'd eaten every last bite, I changed into my strapless bikini and found a pretty pink sundress to match it. I threw my sunglasses on my head and exited the room, locking the door behind me. Ukweli nodded as Matokeo took her place behind me. Edwards was waiting at the top of the stairs and led me the rest of the way.

When we reached our destination, I was floored! This was the fanciest cabana I'd ever seen. The couch was big enough to qualify as a bed and it faced a large screen tv. A small chest of drawers held various sized robes and swim suits and on top, sat two baskets. One filled with oils and lotions and the other, rolled up towels.

"Her Majesty thought you might enjoy reading," Edwards said, pointing to the bamboo coffee table stacked with several tourist pamphlets and gossip magazines. I held back a giggle while Edwards pointed to two huge refrigerated coolers. They were like the ones you'd find in a 7-11 and were filled with various beverages, fresh fruits and finger foods. "Dinner will be served promptly at eight and you may help yourself to refreshments. If you require anything else, here is the house phone. You need only dial zero as before." He handed me the cordless receiver and bowed.

"Thank you Edwards," I said. "Lunch was fantastic and this is a little slice of Heaven. I'll be sure to tell Her Majesty and my husband you took very good care of me." He smiled and bowed again before returning to the house to do whatever it is butler's do.

Now that I was alone, I dropped the sundress, plucked a bottle of deep tanning oil from the basket and slathered a slick layer all over me. I'd been neglecting my favorite pastime and wanted to take full advantage of the opportunity to reinforce my tan. I chose a floating raft from a group of pool toys outside the glorified tent then plopped it and myself into the water. It was so peaceful lying there without a care in the world. I lost myself in dreams of a naked Viking on the beach as the late-afternoon sun caressed my body.

"Lover."

"Mmmm?" I mumbled and felt a drop of water tap my belly.

"Lover wake up."

I grinned though I kept my eyes closed. "Five more minutes."

My Viking responded with a devious laugh. "I think not." With that, he flipped the raft. My eyes flew open as the cold water shocked my heated body and when I emerged, I found Eric hovering above the surface, wearing nothing but a smile.

"Show off," I laughed, splashing him and swimming away as fast as I could.

Eric dropped into the water and began hunting me. He'd speed up and slow down just enough to give the illusion I could escape. My fingers had just brushed the far wall when he caught me. "That I am," he agreed and pulled me into a deep, lingering kiss. Before I knew what was happening, he'd whisked us into the cabana and closed the door.

"The Queen," I half protested, backing up against the couch. Eric smirked and continued to stalk me.

"She has granted us privacy for one hour," he replied and the bond filled with want, need and hunger.

"And Matokeo?" I asked as my bathing suit vanished and my Viking joined me.

"I've sent her back to her post."

He'd covered all the bases and was on top of me now, rubbing himself all over me and I was not complaining. "I could drown in your scent," he whispered in between frenzied kisses. "Your essence, the sun, the oil. It's intoxicating."

I wriggled and moaned beneath him as he traversed my body, pinching here, stroking there, nipping and licking me into heated agony. His tongue landed on my engorged nub and those long fingers slipped inside my walls. I cried out as the first release hit and Eric continued my oral enslavement. Only after I'd lost count of my orgasms did he pause. His deep blue eyes gripped me and he asked.

"You are mine wife?" The way he said it was predatory and we were again the lion and the antelope.

"Yes," I replied hoarsely. "I am yours husband."

His fingers began moving again and his thumb replaced his tongue. "Do you yield to me?"

"Yes," I whimpered. "Take me Eric. Please."

"I will and I shall claim all of you tonight." His hand thrust again and another finger was added but this one slid into my lower entrance. My breath quickened as my body shook and I understood what he meant. It was useless to resist. I was literal putty in his hands.

He rose, took the bottle of oil and poured it all over himself and me. I felt the bulbous tip of him pressing against my virgin back door and panicked. How was that going to fit there? At once, a swirl of comfort engulfed me.

"Trust me Lover," he said gently and breached my barrier. The sensation overwhelmed me, a dizzying mix of pleasure and pain. Eric held perfectly still, allowing my body to open of it's own free will. His thumb toyed with my button and I moaned in sweet submission. Slowly he began thrusting, inching further inside, adding more oil and driving me into a sexual madness I'd never experienced. By the time he'd fully seated himself inside me, I was completely unhinged. Over and over he plunged enthusiastically, his hand never ceasing its ministrations and I reached the zenith that never ended, wailing like a shameless harlot. My response prompted my viking to switch into vampire speed. I shook violently, hyperventilating and called on the Lord, half expecting him to show up. When I thought my body might disintegrate into the blissful abyss, Eric lifted my leg and his fangs scored my ankle. We cried out in unison as our bodies experienced simultaneous release. Still riding the high, I grabbed his arms and yanked him down on top of me, wrapping myself around him. He whispered softly in his long forgotten speech as the last of his seed emptied inside me. Gently, he removed himself from my body's tight grip and kissed my trembling lips.

"Well you boldly went where no man has gone before," I remarked coyly.

My viking chuckled. "That pleases me more than you know. You were magnificent Lover." He kissed me again then retrieved a towel from the basket and tenderly cleaned me. I tried to stand and dress but my legs buckled so Eric scooped me up and flew us back to our room. I appreciated he utilized the balcony rather than the main entrance. It would've been mortifying if I'd had to trek through the male infested mansion, reeking of sex. We bypassed the bed, moving directly into the bathroom where Eric placed me on the marbled shower bench. He turned the hot water on and lovingly began washing away the remnants of our tryst.

"I admit, I was a little disappointed when I rose this evening," he said lightly. "But finding you in that pool…you took my breath away. That is, if I had any." He wiggled his eyebrows and I giggled. "Why did you not go out today?"

"If I'm going to experience this city," I replied as my soapy hands washed his sculpted chest, "I want to do it with you. Sightseeing wouldn't be any fun alone."

"But you had your guard."

I smiled and shook my head. "It's not the same Honey. Ukweli and Matokeo are very nice but they're not you." My hands landed on his butt and I gave it an extra squeeze. "I did enjoy today though. Edwards made sure I ate well and I'd almost forgotten how wonderful it feels to bake in the sun."

"I'm pleased you were kept comfortable and after dinner, I'll take you anywhere you wish to go."

"I'd like that," I sighed. "When I look through all the pictures I'm going to take with my new camera, I want you to be in them. By the way, please stop spoiling me. My jewels, a laptop, the camera…it's very generous but you don't need to shower me with gifts. Your little notes you leave me are priceless."

"Sookie," he responded. "You are my wife and it pleases me to spoil you so you'd better get used to it."

"Alright," I relented, playfully holding my arms up in defeat. "But don't be surprised when I start acting like an entitled brat."

"You do that," he smirked, "and I'll turn you over my knee." He lightly patted my bottom and I laughed.

"You'd love that wouldn't you?"

"Oh yes," he leered, "very much." His fangs dropped and the Gracious Plenty rose.

"Honey," I reasoned because one of us had to. "Her Majesty is expecting us."

"We'll be fashionably late," he replied hungrily. "She'll understand."

I gave into temptation as Eric sheathed himself inside me. My legs locked around his waist and my back was firmly pressed against the wall.

"Your body is like a drug," he grunted. "I will never have enough." He kissed me so forcefully, his fangs nipped my lips but I was to turned on to notice the pain. My arms held tightly to his neck as he pounded harder and harder.

"I can't get enough of you either," I panted. "You feel so good…Oh yes…Oh God!" My viking continued pillaging my willing body as the first wave of euphoria hit. I groaned and kissed him deeply, rubbing my breasts against him. I knew he was close so I pulled away and angled my neck.

"Feed," I commanded.

Eric hissed, his brilliant blue eyes flared and in a move to quick to follow, he'd struck. The sensation as he drank coupled with the intense thrusts threw me over the edge again and Eric soon followed.

When we'd regained our composure, my wounds were healed with lavish kisses that sent shivers down my spine. We dried and dressed in contented silence, our bond speaking for us. I'd just finished pulling my hair into a tight bun when Eric snuck up behind me.

"You are beautiful Wife," he said. "The queen will be envious of your tan."

I had to admit, I was rocking my white dress with the red flowers but my viking was drop dead gorgeous in his Levi's and royal blue button down shirt. He preened when I told him so.

I was nervous as we approached the dining room twenty minutes late but Her Majesty greeted us with a welcoming smile.

"Come in," she invited.

We sat at the bountiful table and I wondered who exactly was going to eat all the food.

"I see my hospitality agrees with you," she continued cheerfully. "I'll have to take up swimming again." She winked and I blushed. "Please, help yourself."

I loaded my plate with grilled steak, baked sweet potato and a spinach salad while Eric and Her Majesty poured themselves a glass of Royalty.

"Edwards tells me you are leaving tomorrow," said the queen.

"Yes, Your Majesty," Eric replied. "I'll advise The Pythoness you've been most gracious."

"Has she decided what to do with Felipe's realm?"

My ears perked up. I thought the king was on some kind of vampire suspension but this sounded much different.

"No one questions The Ancient One," Eric replied sharply.

"I wasn't questioning, Sheriff. He broke the blood covenant. I'm surprised he still exists. He can't possibly be returned to his former status."

Eric guardedly eyed the queen. "With all do respect, Your Majesty. Why do you care?"

"I want to make a deal," she replied calmly. "Although I admire Felipe's greed, he never should have taken Louisiana and Arkansas the way he did. It was cowardly. I've lived in this country since the early days and the one thing I've learned is you have to spend money to make money. Tell the Pythoness to name her price. I wish to buy Nevada."

DUN. DUN. DUN!

I thought I'd leave you with a little cliffhanger this time around. Hope you all survived this chapter cause I had a few heart palpitations writing it. I'll only know you enjoyed it if you leave a review. Please keep them coming. They inspire me to keep going.

Peace!

Hippychik