A/N: Thanks for those who reviewed! It took a little longer than usual but I'm glad to be able to put the next chapter up for the weekend. Kitsune Heart is making wonderful progress on the podfic of this story. I hope you'll all give it a listen once it's complete. Big thanks to her for taking on such a huge project. 3
Only 4 more chapters left! Please review everyone!
Disclaimer: Eoin Colfer owns the rights to Artemis Fowl.
Artemis knocked anxiously on his parents' suite door. Holly stood beside him, holding his hand. She smiled at him as she felt him fidget excitedly as he waiting for his parents to respond.
"Arty. Holly? What can I do for you two?" Artemis Senior answered the door wearing a robe and silk pajama pants, clearly ready for bed.
"Can we speak with you and Mum? Regarding the baby?" Artemis asked, a huge smile still decorating his face.
Angeline bolted to the door, barely closing her robe over her negligee before coming into Artemis and Holly's vantage point. "The baby? What about it?" she shouted in anticipation.
"Why don't you two come in?" Artemis Senior invited them both into their suite and led the way to the sitting area near the bay windows. Holly hadn't been in this room since it had been remodeled last year. It wasn't nearly as dreary as she remembered it to be. It still had the same Tunisian rug with the vine pattern in it, but the walls had been treated with a plaster design and were warm earth tones. The furniture was still antique but not the same as she remembered. The canopy bed was replaced for a 4 poster-bed similar to hers and Artemis's. The dark red and green upholsteries had been replaced with creams and browns. Holly and Artemis sat on the love seat and Artemis Senior sat in the Louis XV chair. Angeline went to go sit in the window box but chose to hover instead.
Artemis purposely waited until his mother was practically jumping out of her skin. He smiled in a maliciously amused fashion as she shifted from one foot to the other like her bladder was about to burst. "WELL?" she finally bellowed at him when he said nothing to her.
Artemis smiled at Holly. "You go ahead." he invited her to proceed.
"You want me to tell them?" she asked him, a bit surprised.
"Your parents aren't around. I told you that you could have my family, remember? They are your parents now too."
Holly gave him an appreciative smile, before turning to address his parents. "We're having a boy."
"A BOY!" Angeline sang out at full volume then promptly burst into tears.
"Congratulations, son, Holly. That's wonderful news. And how is everything, health-wise?" Artemis Senior asked as his wife flew into a complete fit of hysterics.
"Good so far. Strong heart, proper position. Amniocentesis didn't detect anything unusual." Artemis offered.
"That's great. Wow, the doctor did amniocentesis on her? This early?"
"Yes. It appears to within her people's technology." Artemis answered.
"Hmm." Artemis Senior was thoroughly interested in what the fairies had that they humans didn't but knew neither Holly or Artemis would share that information with him and thus it was futile to even ask. "Well that's just fantastic, you two. Have you thought of any names for the lad?"
Artemis smiled happily. "Holly has decided on a third generation of 'Artemis's for our son."
"Yes. With a middle name. Julius, named after my passed mentor." Holly added.
"How wonderful." he replied, then added, "Three 'Artemis's '. That might get confusing." Artemis Senior laughed. Nevertheless, both Holly and Artemis could tell he was delighted.
"That's so wonderful, dear. You have no idea how excited I am for you two." Angeline crooned.
"The medic told me he'd be sending me the visual from the ultrasound and audio from the Doppler recording. I'll be sure to show you both when I receive it." Artemis told his parents.
"Thank you. That would be lovely." Artemis Senior replied since Angeline remained clearly inarticulate.
"We'll let you get your rest now. Goodnight." Artemis stood to leave. His father shook his hand while Angeline snatched Holly in a tight hug.
Once they had left his parents' suite and returned to their own room, Holly headed straight to the bathroom. "I'm going to take a shower. This gel still feels gross... inside and out."
Artemis nodded in acknowledgment and got ready for bed. He grabbed his PowerBook and sat in bed, checking his investments while he waited for Holly to finish with her shower. Some of his stocks were nose diving and he was going to have to move stuff around. He shot off a few decisive emails to brokers and investors before Holly emerged from the steaming bathroom.
"Phew." she said as she entered the bedroom wrapped in a towel. She went towards her bottom dresser drawer to search out a pair of panties and something comfortable to wear to bed.
"Don't bother." Artemis said flatly, barely acknowledging her presence as he typed away furiously on his laptop.
Holly looked at him skeptically. She wasn't sure if he was actually addressing her. She paused, waiting for him to say something else then continued slowly to her drawer.
"Yes I was talking to you. There's no point in putting anything on when I'm just going to rip it off in… two minutes." he added, still not looking at her as he finished up the E-mail he was composing.
Holly unwrapped herself from the towel and went back into the bathroom to hang it on the hook just inside. When she walked back into the room, Artemis had stopped typing and closed the lid of his laptop. He finally bothered to look at her and smiled. He put the computer down on the night stand as she crawled next to him in bed.
"There. Now I don't have to worry about going bankrupt while I repay the debt I owe to you." he announced.
Holly quirked an eyebrow. "Debt?"
"Yes. Reciprocating sexual gratification is simply… proper etiquette."
"Really. Do elaborate." Holly smirked.
Artemis ran his fingers into her damp hair, tucking her now shoulder length locks behind her ear. "As I said, I am in your debt." He kissed her softly against her lips while pressing against her shoulder, suggesting his preference for her to lay down.
As Holly laid down on her back, she broke their kiss and looked up at Artemis above her. His smile was warm but his eyes betrayed his intent. She watched with slight amusement as his pupils fully dilated, making his heterochromatic irises just slits of color around black.
"What if I chose to take my payment another time?" Holly suppressed a wicked smirk.
Artemis almost pouted but composed himself quickly. "That is your prerogative. Is that your intention?" Artemis queried, hoping the answer was 'no.'
"I'm not sure. What would you suggest? You handle the finances around here. When someone offers repayment, is it ever of advantage to refuse it?" Holly knew he would have to answer. She also knew what he'd say.
Artemis frowned. "There are times when it is advantageous to refuse repayment. Like when you need an ace in the hole to blackmail your debtor. I do hope that is not your intent."
"Hmm. I see. Well, thanks for clearing that up for me. Goodnight." Holly could barely keep the laughter from escaping as she rolled on to her side and closed her eyes.
Artemis sank back, clearly disappointed. Denied.
After a few minutes, Artemis hadn't laid down, or even moved. Holly couldn't contain her cruel laughter anymore and burst into a fit of giggles. She rolled on to her back and looked over at him. "Gods, Artemis. I was kidding."
Artemis's perfect eyebrows furrowed together. Clearly he did not appreciate the humor.
Holly smiled apologetically and stretched her arms open towards him. "Come here, silly."
Artemis crawled over, pausing above her. "That was unkind." he said with a frown.
"Sorry, love." she smiled and placed her hand on his cheek, guiding him to her mouth.
Artemis recovered quickly from the cruel trick, hoping she wasn't trying to pull something on him again. He sensed no deception or cunning from her as he had moments earlier. Now all he felt from her was love and affection. He kissed her gently on the lips before peppering soft kisses down her jaw line to her neck. Holly 'mm'ed' appreciatively and spread her legs to invite him between them. Artemis shifted his position to be more directly above her while continuing to kiss her neck and shoulders. Holly bent her legs and shifted her hips to be in line with his. He had apparently chose to forego underwear tonight. She let out a small sigh when she felt his hardness brush against her sex.
Although Artemis wished very much to sink inside of her, he had 'compensation' in mind for right now. His kisses trailed from her neck, down her collar bone and into the dip in her throat. Holly started to moan, quietly, but the vibration was enough for Artemis to feel it in her throat where his lips currently resided. Artemis could smell his vetiver soap on her skin as he placed worshipful kisses down between the valley of her breasts. He always thought it was an oddly personal thing to share one's soap. To have that scent on her due to their shared intimacy, gave him curious feeling of ownership. Not that he'd ever think he owned her as if she were a possession. He always viewed his relationship with her to be more like an unworthy blessing or endowment.
Holly squirmed just slightly beneath him, making her wetness obvious to him. Artemis had unconsciously ground into her once before composing himself. He ignored her, focusing on her breasts, flicking at her nipple with his tongue before slowly drawing it into his mouth entirely, lifting her with slow deep pulls, suckling until her moaning became incessant. His hand wandered slowly to her unoccupied breast and traced gentle circles around her nipple until it too was peaked and hard.
Holly was thoroughly enjoying the foreplay, but she needed more. Now. She wrapped her hands around his back pushed her pelvis up towards him. She was disappointed when he removed the hand from her breast to push her hip back against the bed.
Artemis could sense her confusion and didn't want her to jump to a false conclusion. He had full intentions of satisfying her, but not that way. He decided she was aroused enough to continue if she was motioning her desire for penetration. His mouth left her breast and traveled down towards its' destination: a small triangle of soft brown hair between her legs. He left wet, open-mouthed kisses in its trail.
Holly moaned loudly as she finally realized his intent. Her hips bucked up in anticipation and Artemis had to use more force that he would have liked just to keep her still. Once his mouth arrived at the source of her frustration, he kissed her gently, as if he were simply saying 'hello'. She began to whimper and knotted her fingers into the sheets, waiting impatiently for him to continue. She didn't have to wait long. He lapped his warm tongue up the full length of her slit, eliciting a delicious sounding cry from her.
"Oh! Ah... Artemis! Yes..." Holly cried and cinched her eyes tight at the wonderful sensation.
Artemis considered teasing her in retribution for her cruel joke earlier but decided against it. He was paying off his debt right now. He could tease her another time. His tongue darted and licked between her folds and shallowly probed her entrance. He could taste how strong her arousal was and groaned at the burning desire that was mounting in his own nether regions. Still it was thrilling to know he could bring her such pleasure with the simple use of his mouth.
Holly began to scream at the stimulation but found herself even more frustrated by the lack of penetration. Even though Artemis worked his tongue upon her womanhood with the tremendous skill he afforded every task, she needed something else.
"Artemis... I need you inside me…" she moaned.
Artemis paused, seemingly considering her invitation. It was then Holly realized his intent. He was reciprocating for her earlier ministrations to him in the car, which had not involved mutual gratification.
"Artemis! Now!" she shouted at him. His eyes widened as he realized it had not been an invitation but a command. He figured it was best to oblige. Aside from that, this option was more desirous to him. He crawled up her body, nipping her sides at the waist where he knew she was a bit ticklish. The touch made her tense up in response, and a giggle slipped out.
He loomed over her, and she tangled her hands into his hair once again. As he kissed her, he thrust his tongue inside her mouth to seek out her own. Holly could taste herself on his lips and found it incredibly erotic. She moaned into his mouth and wrapped her legs around his waist, ushering him towards her entrance. Artemis groaned at her eagerness and found he couldn't control his desire any longer. Holly had taken hold of his member, directing it towards her pussy with urgency, and he pushed inside her quickly but gently. Holly broke their kiss to gasp as she felt him fill her entirely. This was what she wanted, what she needed.
Artemis reveled in the silky smoothness that surrounded his cock. No matter how many times he made love to Holly, it was never anything short of amazing. No longer did he have to worry about injuring her as he had once long ago. Ever since they had been partnered, she had grown to become a perfect fit for him. She was large enough that he didn't have to wait after penetration for her muscles to relax, and yet she was still tight enough to stroke and massage his length with every thrust.
As they set their rhythm, he busied his mouth at her neck. Holly moaned and cried incoherently as she ground against him with her own hips, matching his pace. When his thumb brushed against her nipple, he could feel the muscles in her thighs beginning to quiver and her entire body tensed. Her walls clamped down on his rod as her climax approached. Artemis plowed fervently into her, urging her orgasm's arrival. When it hit, she screamed his name and arched against the bed, pressing her breasts firmly against his sweating chest.
Artemis's eyes shut tightly as he came in tandem with her. He emptied what remained in his body into hers. Their pace slowed, but a few small spurts were milked from him by her still spasming walls.
Artemis stilled above her, barely managing to hold his own weight as he heaved and panted for air. Holly, although having left the physical exertion to Artemis, still lay beneath him gasping and breathless from her intense orgasm.
Once he had regained enough breath to speak, Artemis lifted himself just enough to look at Holly's face. The love his eyes portrayed to her was so warm that she could feel her heart swell. She smiled gently at him and placed her hand to his cheek. He returned her smile before placing a soft kiss on her lips.
Artemis slid from their coupling and lay down beside her, completely exhausted. Still he found enough energy to comb his fingers through her hair as he spoke to her.
"That wasn't exactly what I had in mind, you know."
"I know. But it was what I had in mind. And I didn't hear you complaining." she said with a smirk.
"No. No complaints." he huffed out before rolling on to his back.
"Artemis." she said as she propped herself up on her elbow, "I love you." then placed a light kiss on his forehead.
"I love you too. And you have no idea how much. You mean everything, to me."
Holly smiled at him before settling in beside him and snuggling tightly against him. She traced light circular patterns on his chest until she could hear his breathing become slow and steady. She peaked up at his face and sure enough, he was asleep. She kissed him softly before pulling the blankets up over them and falling asleep herself. A drifting thought passed through her mind as she dozed off... my husband...
Time sped by quickly and before Trouble knew it, the day was instantly upon him. He grimaced at the image in the mirror. Himself in full formal uniform, preparing to face all his friends, family and co-workers to profess his undying 'love' for Lili and promise his commitment to her. The knot in his stomach began to grow horribly large and Trouble prayed for liquor. Only booze could make this day tolerable.
Trouble chugged dutifully through his vows and actually smiled when Lili said hers. She was very pretty. He really should be happy. Even if it wasn't what he hoped for. That hope was now living on the surface with… him.
The ceremony finished without issue and everyone sat at the dining tables for the reception. Since it wasn't everyday a Commander marries a former Captain who also happens to be the daughter of the most respected and feared General, the formal hall attached to LEP headquarters was reserved. Both Trouble, and more surprisingly his best man Grub, looked very handsome in their formal LEP uniforms. Lili wore the enormous white gown she had purchased with her father's money. Mulch was purposefully uninvited, and therefore present. He couldn't be dissuaded to crash a party with no small amount of free food.
No.1 and Qwan were invited and decided to attend since Foaly practically begged them not to leave him alone. They spent most of the evening socializing with both him and Caballine. No.1 watched nervously as both Foaly and Qwan drank copious amounts of liquor, causing them to find lewd jokes suddenly appropriate to make with slurred speech. Qwan periodically would break from the crude jesting to whine about his personal grief. After spending 10,000 years alone, he still had no mate despite his celebrity status and fantastic genes. The truth, as No.1 was quickly discovering, was that demonesses did not view warlocks as the most attractive males. Perhaps it was because they resembled imps or even looked slightly similar to a female. Qweffor, on the other hand, had already taken three wives. Of course, having taken over the body of former demon tribe leader Abbott, he was quite the catch. This meant he couldn't pass on the warlock gene but any potential offspring he may have had the chance of obtaining a small measure of magical ability.
Demon society had changed dramatically since the return from Limbo. Many started to live in social structures that other fairy races preferred. Hence why Qweffor's wives resided with him and not in the female compound. Still, there were those who chose to stick to the more traditional ways and thus male, female and imp compounds still existed.
As Qwan moaned about his lack of mate(s), Foaly complained in stereo about Caballine's constant nagging for a child. With all the sudden pregnancies lately, Caballine had baby fever. Foaly wasn't too keen on the idea of becoming a father so soon after patching up his rocky marriage. On top of that, he'd just recently stopped working for Recon/Retrieval and didn't feel that their income would be adequate to support an extra mouth to feed. Regardless, Foaly realized he'd cave eventually simply to appease his wife. He still hoped to at least stall the inevitable.
Since the entire wedding took place at LEP headquarters, just about all the officers were able to attend in shifts. This of course meant feeding hundreds and General Frond wasn't too pleased about that. But he reasoned it made his famous little 'Lili Flower' happy and gave her a measure of respectability, after being disgraced by Trouble himself.
Various meat and vegetarian meals were served to the guests. While Qwan was drowning himself in alcohol, No.1 began to bury his own sorrows in food. He was beginning to think any potential offspring he may have in life would only be brought into existence through artificial means. Someone was going to have to continue the demon warlock species and neither Qwan or No.1 were looking like they were going to be successful in the natural method. No.1 couldn't help considering companionship outside of his species. It worked out well for Holly afterall...
Trouble danced awkwardly with Lili for the first dance. Trouble hated dancing. He never felt that flitting around the dance floor, even with a female in hand, was a very manly thing to do. He had danced before, at the academy's ball, with Holly. Even then he thought it was ridiculous but did it anyway since he was hoping to get in her pants. Lili smiled stiffly throughout the entire ordeal, she was not expecting Trouble to be such a terrible dancer. She scolded herself internally for not suspecting this. Slowly, Lili was beginning to realize that she had idealized the Commander slightly. Sure he was young, good looking and had a high position of authority. Yet he was nothing for romance and he certainly wasn't anything to gossip about in the bedroom. But her plan was too far in to make changes now. She had three baby girls on the way with this elf and there was no way she was about to rear them up on her own. She was stuck with him now, whether either of them liked it or not.
The mandatory dances ended with Trouble dancing with his Mommy who openly ridiculed his poor skills, loudly and on the dance floor. Aside from that though, she seemed happy he was getting married. Although she had made it very clear to anyone who knew about the babies that she did not approve of their indiscretion.
Trouble sat down for the meal, which for him, included three different types of meat. Lili ate sim-chicken with steamed vegetables. Eating healthy had never been more important than now. Still, she had trained herself to eat well to keep her fabulous figure. She was beginning to worry what her shape would look like after carrying three children at once. She was already searching out a recommended plastic surgeon.
Trouble drank, as usual. Even more than usual. Once completely plastered, he began shouting at his brother about stupid things, yelling at Foaly periodically about how he should have just wiped "those traitors when we had the chance" and lecturing Qwan between hiccups regarding his desire for a mate.
"Ya know, hic a mate ain't allzit crack'd up ta be, ya know?" Trouble slurred to him.
"Ya say that NOW, Trubs, when ya gotz one." Qwan mumbled.
"No no. Truzzme. hic Chikz are WAY too much werk. Ya slave away at werk to put a roof o'er yer heads hic an' she sitz at home gettin' all FAT. hic Then when you getz home, she'z suddenly got a headache and won't put out, I mean, hic fut the wuck?" Trouble continued with a small chuckle. Qwan huffed out a bitter laugh in reply. No.1 frowned disapprovingly.
Mulch made himself scarce. As the only dwarf there, he stuck out like a sore thumb and didn't want to get caught crashing. Or at least, called out on it. He stopped by to visit with No.1 who appeared rather miserable for such a joyous occasion.
"What's up, No.1? Why the long face? I thought that was Foaly's signature look." Mulch asked him.
"Just feeling left out, I suppose. Artemis has Holly, and now even Kelp has someone. No one wants a demon warlock. My mother has tried to set me up now four times and never have the females even agreed to bother to stay for anything past a meal with me. It's very discouraging." No.1 admitted.
"Yeah, that sucks ass. But hey. Look at me. I don't need no woman. I got myself a life without any need for someone else to complete it for me. Sure I get lonely from time to time but women are way more work than they're worth. This is Trouble's stinkin' wedding. Does he look thrilled about the idea of being tied to this sole female for the rest of his many centuries left of life? Not to mention children..." he said with great disdain.
"I love kids." No.1 stated.
Mulch gave him a disgusted look. "You're still a kid yourself."
"I'm the same age as Artemis and he's having a child." No.1 said defensively.
"WHAT?" Apparently Mulch hadn't been clued in. No.1 immediately grimaced knowing he had 'blabbed' once again.
"What do you mean 'Artemis is having a child'? With Holly?"
"Uhm, yeah." No.1 admitted quietly. Who else could it be...he thought.
"NO SHIT!" Mulch suddenly forgot his presence here was supposed to be discreet. A dozen conversations halted, and heads turned towards them.
"Shhh!" No.1 hissed.
"Oh. Sorry." Mulch said in hushed tones. "When did this happen?"
"Not long after she moved in with him I guess, after the partnering. Last I heard, a medical warlock had gone up to see them. I still have to call him and see how everything is."
"Well, I'll be. Lil' Arty's gonna be a daddy." Mulch let out a huge guffaw. "Serves him right. That's what you get when you stick your dick where it don't belong." he choked out.
"What on earth do you mean? Children are a gift from the gods!" No.1 disagreed with him.
"If you say so." Mulch shrugged as he left No.1 to return to the buffet table to stuff his face yet again.
Some disagreement between Trouble and his brother became heated and fists began to fly. No.1 caught something yelled by Grub about Trouble not deserving Lili, and how there was no way in hell that Trouble's 'slow swimmers' could have put three babies in her, and that she must have found a 'more suitable father'. Grub ranted on as Trouble wailed on him relentlessly. Grub fought back with all the strength he could muster, and he had the advantage of being moderately sober. Once they had both gotten to the point of battered and bloodied, both of them suddenly heard Lili screaming at them for ruining her wedding. They both shuffled off fearfully to the men's room to clean themselves up, wisely shelving the matter until another time.
"Well that was interesting." Foaly said as he watched the drama unfold. He began to rub his temples. Centaurs metabolized alcohol more quickly, and thus his hangover was already kicking in. "No.1, are you going to Artemis and Holly's wedding in person? Can you make sure nothing like that happens to poor Holly?"
"I can't imagine anything would, but yes. I will do my utmost assure it a happy occasion for all." No.1 promised.
"Good. By the way, bring them the video of this catastrophe, and tell me what they say. I'm dying to know."
Artemis couldn't believe it was already only a week away from his own wedding. No.1 would be coming to stay with them for a week. He'd received clearance from Section 8 for his first real vacation since returning to normal time. Artemis was looking forward to seeing his friend again and hoped that his company would keep his mind away from the anxiety of the wedding. He was beginning to see why so many felt weddings were stressful, even though Artemis had everything completely planned down to the last minor detail. And though there were certainly no doubts about marrying Holly, he still found that he was slightly nervous. He assumed it was due to the unknown factors that he couldn't plan for. For example, the weather. The wedding was scheduled to take place outside in the garden. But if it rained, which it very likely would in the autumn in Ireland, the music hall was set up for the ceremony. Still, he had explained to his relatives that they much preferred to have an outdoor wedding. It was easier to explain than why they weren't in a church.
Holly had become especially moody lately. One minute she'd be crying, the next laughing like an idiot. Artemis was figuratively walking on eggshells around her constantly as she would misinterpret almost everything he said, translating it into something harsh. It was difficult for her to be in a good mood when she physically felt awful. She was sore very often and Artemis tried to do whatever he could to comfort her. He decided to send both Holly and his mother off to the spa for the weekend. This would also afford him some time to actually work. His stocks in the American communication company he'd invested in were dropping exponentially, along with the other stocks he traded months ago and his portfolio wasn't currently as strong as he'd like it to be.
Holly was loving her time at the spa. Angeline made for great company. Of course Angeline was extremely excited about the upcoming wedding. It was going to be quite the affair. She babbled endlessly about it during their Swedish massages they'd received from Hans and Sven, two young brawny men who Angeline not-so-subtly flirted with beforehand. Angeline asked Holly about small details regarding the wedding and Holly replied that she simply didn't know the answer. Artemis was doing everything. Much of her own wedding was going to be a surprise to even her. The only thing that Artemis was going to have to surprise him, was the sight of her in her dress.
Her last two physicals with the medical warlock confirmed the baby was doing well and that Holly herself had indeed stopped growing. Finally Holly had acquired a gown and all the alterations were now complete. She was very thankful that she wasn't showing very much yet since the dress was rather form fitting around her mid-section. Artemis, being a stickler for tradition, had yet to see it. He had sent his mother and Juliet to assist her in shopping for the dress and trying it on. So now the dress hung in the guess room closet. Artemis had even suggested that they remain abstinent for a period of time before the wedding and go as far as sleep in separate rooms until after they were married. Holly looked at him as if he had two heads and scoffed. Artemis took that to mean 'no'.
By evening that day, Holly's muscles were completely relaxed and she reveled in the catered food provided. Now that she was more than four months pregnant, the nausea had calmed down and she had much more of an appetite. However, she found she wasn't entirely enjoying herself to the full. She missed Artemis. To make matters worse, she wouldn't see him for another 24 hours. He had told her that she could call him whenever, but she wanted a bit of privacy to do so. Angeline finally left Holly to rest in the room while she went for hot stone therapy. Alone, and lonely, Holly decided to call him.
Artemis felt his phone buzz against his hip and looked at the caller ID. It was listed as the spa's name which Holly was staying at this weekend. He still wasn't sure if it was Holly or his mother calling, or even possibly the hotel staff. "Artemis Fowl speaking." he answered.
"Arty, it's me. How are you?" Holly asked.
Artemis smiled, and his softened tone reflected it. "Holly. I'm well. How is your mini-vacation going thus far?"
"Fine. I mean, it's good. You're mom's a blast. The food here is awesome and some hot Swede massaged out all my kinks."
Artemis groaned disapprovingly. "Why couldn't you have requested a female masseuse?"
"Your mom was the one who suggested him... said he had 'magic hands' and a tasty sight for the eyes.." Holly giggled.
"GROSS. I don't want to know anything about my mother's preference in men. Change the subject please." Artemis complained while pinching the bridge of his nose.
Holly laughed harder. "Did you have dinner already?" she asked at random.
"No. I lost track of time. I hope you've eaten."
"What kind of ridiculous question is that? 'Have I eaten?' Pfft," she mocked.
"I'll take that as a 'yes'."
"Where are you right now?" she asked.
"In my study. I was trying to save some of my money from disappearing down the proverbial toilet but it seems AT&T still managed drag some of it with them."
"Aww, that's a shame. No new watch this week then, huh?" Holly offered her complete insincere empathy.
"No, 'no new watch'." he humored her. "Are you calling from your room?"
"Yeah."
"Where is my mother?"
"Off in a private room having Sven massage other areas of her body." Holly jested.
"What?" Artemis shouted. He was definitely going to go into full shock if Holly was about to inform him his mother was having a 'fling'.
Holly laughed hysterically. "I'm kidding, Arty. Take a chill pill. She's getting some kinda rock massage. I can't imagine how that feels good. What do they do? Chuck them at you where you're not sore so that the pain in your muscles seems more bearable?"
Now Artemis laughed. "God, Holly. Such an imagination. It's nothing at all like that. The stones are flat river stones that are heated and then placed strategically along the muscles- " he started before she cut him off.
"Duly noted, moving along." she said flatly.
"Very well. What would you like to talk about?" he offered.
"I don't know... I miss you. It's weird. I can't... feel you. Y'know? Like sense your presence or anything. It's unnerving. Like you're gone. I don't like it." Holly complained.
Artemis knew exactly what she was talking about. He'd sensed the loss as well. It seemed their connection only worked in close quarters to one another. Since the partnering, they'd been able to sense each others emotions perfectly but only while in the other's presence. Now, over 200 km away, there was no way he could sense her and vise versa. Not having her around had rendered him with an odd feeling of loss. It was if an entire part of his being had simply ceased to exist, a part he'd begun to take for granted.
"I miss you too. You'll be home tomorrow then?" He asked, trying to soothe her.
"Yeah. I'd come home now if your mom wasn't having such a good time. Why didn't you come with us?"
"Two reasons: One, I really needed to get some work done and finish up the final plans on the wedding. I figured you'd be more entertained doing something outside of the home since I would be preoccupied. And Two, it is apparently healthy for couples to have some time apart." Artemis admitted but was finding he doubted this theory.
"Yeah, maybe for normal couples. Couples who aren't partnered. Arty, come get me. Or come and stay here tonight and leave with me and your mom tomorrow." she whined.
Artemis was very tempted. The spa wasn't that far away. He could drive there in under two hours... maybe less. Depending on how badly he intended to speed. He battled with the idea. They really should be separate sometimes, shouldn't they? His parents were from time to time, though neither of them ever seemed to enjoy it when they were, especially for long periods of time. In fact, separation had actually driven his mother mad. He figured the theory must be bunk and there was no point in continuing either his or Holly's torment to simply prove it false.
"So which is it? Do you want me to bring you home or come stay the night with you?"
Holly smiled brightly. "Come get me. I want to come home."
"All right. I'll be there as soon as I can. See you soon, love." Artemis hung up with her and checked the security feature on his computer. Butler had retired to his room for the evening and Juliet was in the gym. The boys were in bed but his father was still on the main level in the conference room. He'd have to get passed him without him noticing. Artemis thought it was ridiculous that as an adult, he had to sneak out of his house. It certainly wasn't because he wasn't allowed to leave, he just wasn't allowed to leave on his own. He didn't feel like having Butler around when he was with Holly. He'd have to censor his choice of words and... actions. It was far more convenient to be alone with her.
Artemis quickly made his way down the stairs, out the door and into the garage. He found the keys to his black BMW ActiveHybrid 750Li, unlocked the car, sat behind the wheel then pulled out his phone. He left a text message for Butler on his cell. 'Don't follow me. I'm sorry, I'll be back shortly.' Then he deactivated GPS tracking and shut off his phone. Before he could even start the engine, he looked up to see Juliet standing at the far end of the garage, in the middle of the entrance, blocking his way out. She wasn't going to let him go anywhere without protection. Artemis's shoulders sank in defeat as he acknowledged he had been bested, then spontaneously, an idea sprang to mind. He started the car, revved it loudly to try to intimidate her. He knew she was no 'chicken'. Still, it would be amusing to see her reaction. He let it leap forward, towards to entrance. Artemis knew his car very well and knew he wasn't putting her in danger in any way. Still, anyone watching his stunt might have a heart attack.
Juliet stood her ground 40 metres away at the front of the huge garage. Her hands on her hips, giving him a daring glare. Her eyebrows shot up as she realized his intent to possibly run her over but knew he didn't have it in him to actually do anything that would injure her. Besides, if he misjudged his brakes, she'd just jump on the hood and roll over him before he hit her. She'd done it before. Not with Artemis of course, Madame Ko had a list of bizarre situations encompassed in her training.
The roar of the 440-hp V-8 TwinPower Turbo engine was deafening in the confines of the garage. Artemis sped towards her with an evil grin plastered to his face. Juliet stood stone still. When the car's transmission slipped into 4th, he floored the brakes, coming to a squealing stop exactly two inches from her knees. Juliet never even flinched and returned his dark smile with one of her own. Through the windshield Artemis mouthed very clearly: "Get in, or get out of my way." Juliet cocked an eyebrow at him but her smile never faded. She wrenched open the passenger door and joined him in the car.
"Who are you and what have you done with Artemis?" she joked. Stunts like that were not his norm. Ever since Holly had moved in almost six months ago, he'd changed a lot. For the better, in her opinion.
Artemis managed a small smile before peeling down the avenue and onto the main road.
"Where we going?" she asked, obviously excited.
"Picking up Holly. You can take her place at the spa with my mother if you'd like." Artemis explained.
"Really? Awesome. I guess I should thank Holly. Why did she want to come home?"
Artemis smiled smugly. "She simply cannot bear to be without me."
Juliet snorted. "Yeah right. You probably begged her to come home cuz your hand wasn't doing the job well enough."
Artemis looked insulted. "I'm being serious! She asked to come home because she missed me!" he defended, then smiled, "and she hasn't even been gone more than 12 hours. Do you honestly think I need to be physical with her so often?"
Juliet laughed. "I guess not, but then again, you are still a teenager. Well anyways, it looks like you've got company there and back since a day at the spa sounds nice after hitting the gym for 3 hours straight."
"Juliet, I admire your drive and sometimes do covet your ambition for self-induced torture but I simply think my intellect won't allow me to abuse my body in such a manner."
"It's just tough in the beginning Artemis. Then you get used to it and even start to crave it... especially when you have no other physical outlet..." she added miserably.
"I'll have to take your word for it. I, however, do have another physical outlet... and it's far more enjoyable than lifting weights." he chuckled darkly at her choice of words.
Juliet grumbled. "God, I gotta get laid." she muttered.
"Yes. You do. Your brother too." Artemis agreed.
Juliet looked at him incredulously. "What? You did not just seriously say that."
Artemis gave her an entirely serious look. "I did. You two both are far too tightly wound. Maybe if you were busy with your own affairs, you'd stay out of mine more often."
"Ah, I see. It's not out of genuine concern for our mental or physical well-being that you wish this, but purely for your own benefit." Juliet accused.
"Mostly. But not entirely. I'm much happier with Holly in my life. Of course I would wish the same for those I care about."
"Aww. Thanks, Arty." she teased. "Maybe I'll attack one of your cousin's at your wedding."
Great... now she's using my pet name. Fantastic. "Just allow me to give them fair warning before you do."
Holly grabbed her things after she hung up with Artemis. Angeline came back shortly after and Holly explained how she would be leaving tonight instead of tomorrow, but insisted that Angeline stay and enjoy her time. Angeline acquiesced, retiring for the night.
Holly decided to relax and watch some TV while she waited for Artemis. She barely ever watched TV anymore even though the manor received around 400 channels. The Fowls just weren't much for television. Holly missed just sitting in front of the TV and vegging. Not to mention she hadn't seen a movie in almost a year. Holly would always readily admit, even when she still had a strong hatred for humans, that Mud Men made way better movies than The People did. Fairies were a bit stingy when it came to entertainment. Not that many wanted to spend money on going to a movie and thus, production studios didn't want to invest the large amounts of money needed to make a good movie. Humans had no qualms about blowing hundreds of millions on dollars since they knew they'd most likely still reap a return on their investment.
Angeline had already gone to sleep in the bedroom portion of the hotel room. Holly sat on the sofa in the main living space, flipping through the many channels, looking for something interesting to watch. She figured out how to pull up the Pay-Per-View guide and scanned for movies. She knew Artemis would be more than an hour, maybe even two, and figured she probably had time to catch the majority of a flick. She found one entitled "Mothers Do It Too" and reasoned it was a good choice. She didn't know much about human babies and the experience human mothers go through with child bearing and rearing. She figured the film could be educational to her since her child was almost half human.
She clicked to select the movie and immediately a busty brunette appeared in a set that was supposed to be kitchen she assumed. She wondered why on earth this woman would be doing dishes in her underwear, a lace-trimmed apron and heels. She also doubted this woman ever had a child in her life. Not unless she had plastic surgery, which judging by her enormous boobs, she probably did. In the movie, the doorbell rang and the 'mother' went to open the door to let in a buff 30-something man who was apparently there to repair the dishwasher. The shirt of his maintenance uniform was barely buttoned and the sleeves were ripped off at the shoulders. Holly wondered if his company knew he dressed so slovenly to a house call.
Holly watched puzzled as the repair man rehearsed cheesy come-ons to the 'mother' character. The acting was horrible and she could only assume it was a low-budget film. Strange background music seeped in, electric bass and synthesizers. Almost immediately when the music started, the realization clicked in Holly's head. It was a second too late however as the repair man pulled out his enormous cock, amazingly already sheathed in latex, and started to plow into the woman over the kitchen table. Holly gasped but couldn't fight her curiosity, and ended up watching the pornographic film. She had heard they were terribly cheesy... and so far, that was correct. Still, she had to admit she found it a bit erotic. Holly found she was unable to tear herself from the screen as the graphic images and the salacious screams coming from the female actress heightened her arousal…
Artemis was making fantastic time as he flew down the motor way. The road was deserted and he had a device that would be able to detect any speed traps or cameras for miles ahead. It also helped that Artemis's license plates had a special covers, they would appear blurry in any camera that may happen to capture its' image. Juliet didn't seem the least bit disturbed to having him drive at 150 kilometers an hour. He'd shave a good 40 minutes off his commute at this speed.
Juliet forced him to endure some horrible American Rock music for a good half hour, during which his speedometer crept over 160 at one point. She made some idle chit chat with him about his wedding, which she was in. Once Artemis had explained to Holly the roles of a bridal party, Holly realized she only had one human girlfriend and Juliet was it. So now Juliet had a dark burgundy bridesmaid dress to wear as she stood at Holly's side as her Maid of Honor.
Arriving exactly 68 minutes after departure, Artemis pulled into the spa's valet, expecting he'd have to retrieve Holly inside. Suddenly and without warning, he felt an overpowering wave of arousal overcome him. Artemis swallowed thickly as he tried to comprehend the bizarre reaction he was having to apparently nothing. Juliet looked at him, confused as to why he suddenly looked so uncomfortable.
"You okay?" she asked.
"Fine. Find Holly and tell her I'm here." Artemis said as he wiped the sheen of sweat that was forming on his brow. He didn't think it would be wise for him to stand just yet.
"All right... if you're sure you're okay." Juliet exited the car and made her way into the lobby. She found Holly already waiting with her bag, dancing impatiently. Juliet smiled at her and Holly returned her smile stiffly.
"Artemis is outside waiting for you. He drove the Bimmer today."
Holly was shocked to hear Artemis drove himself. She was expecting to see the Bentley outside with Butler driving. Holly smiled. This made things more convenient. Now she wouldn't have to force him to check into a room just for some privacy. "Thanks Juliet. You're staying here, right?" Holly assumed, and hoped.
"Hells yes. You take your man over facials and massages... not me. Did you get to see Sven?" she asked with a mischievous grin.
"Yes. I guess you've been here before?" Holly answered, slightly irritated.
"Oh yeah. Don't worry about leaving Mrs. Fowl, Holly. I've kept her company plenty of times at spas. It's one of the perks of the job." Juliet smiled at Holly.
Holly nodded and told her she'd see her sometime tomorrow and left the building to find Artemis.
Artemis was happy to find he had regained enough composure after that startlingly odd episode. He put the car in park and waiting just outside the hotel lobby. He got out and waited by the passenger door for Holly. She quickly emerged from the building and Artemis smiled brightly at her. Holly sighed in relief as she ran to him. She dropped her bag just before reaching him and threw her around him in a tight hug. "Thank the gods." she whispered in relief as she crushed herself against his chest.
Artemis laughed lightly as he hugged her back. "Miss me?"
"You know I did. Now, let me drive." she snatched the keys from his hand and ran around to the driver's door.
Artemis looked at her puzzled. "Okay." he surrendered. He took her bag and put it in the back seat since she'd already confiscated his keys he couldn't open the trunk. He got in the passenger seat and examined her. His link to her had reestablished itself before he even saw her and he could sense she was feeling frustrated or impatient. And oddly, aroused. Suddenly realization struck as to what had caused his spontaneous erection earlier. Holly was horny. He chuckled darkly as he looked at her wild eyes and she drove around to the back of the building.
"We could just book a room." Artemis offered, clueing her in that he understood what she was feeling.
"Waste of money and the walls are too thin. This vehicle is more than sound proof enough." she answered curtly as she found an unlit spot to park. "Pants off." she ordered.
"Are you serious?" he asked, smiling. He didn't actually expect an answer as he was already reaching for his belt buckle as he asked the question.
"You know I am." Holly stripped off her shirt and lifted her ass to pull off her capris with her panties. She kicked them off her legs and left all her clothes piled in the foot well by the pedals. Artemis followed suit and with his pants and boxers and was about to start working on his shirt and tie when Holly crawled over the center console and straddled his lap. She reached down the side of the seat to find the recline lever and her and Artemis almost instantly found themselves practically in the back seat.
"Why the hurry? Something got you hot and bothered?" he smirked at her.
Holly said nothing. She wrenched his tie off single-handedly in under 4 seconds. A skill she was proud to have learned. She made her way purposefully through the bottom four buttons before her trembling fingers began to give her too much difficulty by the fifth. Becoming overwhelmed with frustration, she grabbed each side of his shirt around the collar and tore it open, popping the remaining buttons free from the fabric. Artemis's eyes widened in surprise at his violent lover's actions. He wasn't sure if he should be aroused for frightened. His body decided on aroused.
As she hovered over him, the only thing remaining on her body aside from her necklaces and ring, was her white lace bra. Artemis reached around her back to find the clasp and with a quick pinch, it came undone and fell quickly from her body and onto his. He gaped at her impressively huge tits hanging down directly at eye level to him.
"God, Holly. Your breasts are enormous. When did they grow so large?" he said as he groped them both, amazed to find he actually couldn't fit them entirely in his hands. He knew it was the pregnancy hormones but still... Damn.
Holly pressed her chest into his hands and ground her hips into him. Her freshly manicured nails felt sharp against his skin as she raked her fingered down his chest, leaving deep red lines in their path. She ran her tongue up the side of this neck, sucking and biting him periodically. She tugged at his hair harshly to angle his face away from her mouth, giving her access to his ear. Artemis winced at her roughness. She did enjoy being taken roughly, but she generally wasn't one to be so rough with him. Artemis was glad he had a thick head of hair because he was certain she was pulling some out. He was about to complain and ask her to be more gentle when her mouth came in contact with the tip of his ear. As her teeth grazed against his ear he felt an electric shock shoot through his body, one unlike anything he'd ever felt before.
"FUCK!" he swore loudly as he heaved beneath her. He couldn't believe how sensitive his ears had become. After partnering with Holly, he'd noticed certain times when he'd get an odd tingling sensation in his ears when he sensed Holly was angry with him or about to have another crying fit. It seemed they were now also an erogenous zone for him as well.
Holly smiled, knowing her suspicions were correct. Artemis had also changed physically from their partnering. He did wake up at a decent hour every morning now. The evidence of his transformation wasn't as visible as Holly's was, but it was there nonetheless. She sucked at the tip of his ear and he growled and grabbed at her hips roughly, trying to angle her in such a way to give him access to her wet heat.
She shifted to deny him entrance. He wasn't going to get control. She relinquished his ear to sit back and look at him. His expression was completely feral and even in the dim light she saw his eyes burned with desire. She smiled coyly, knowing he was now as equally frustrated as she was. She took his stiff cock in her hand and angled it at her entrance. Swiftly, she sheathed him completely inside her, crying out in pleasure as she did. Artemis breathed sharply at the solace and thrill of being within her.
Holly began to thrust herself over him, bouncing against his lap, her tits jumping with each movement.
Artemis's hand snaked up her back and into her hair. With a rough tug, he pulled her back into an enticing arch. His other hand grabbed her large breast and Holly started to curse. If she wanted rough, he'd give her rough.
"Oh gods, Artemis. Fuck me!" she moaned.
Artemis increased his speed and force into her. He released her hair to take hold of both her hips and lifted her in an opposing rhythm to his thrusts. Holly screamed and wailed at such great volume that she might have been audible outside of the vehicle if anyone was around. Artemis frankly didn't give a shit and pounded her harder just the same.
"Holly." he rasped. "Tell me… tell me what you need!"
"Fuck, gods, yes! I need your cock! Nothing feels better!" she cried.
His hands left her hips and one went to her hair, tugging it roughly. Her own hand darted down to her clit to flick it while he continuously hammered into her. The sound of her ass slapping his lap filled the car.
Her walls cinched tightly, enough to almost push him from her body. He knew she was close and began to shout commands at her.
"Now, Holly! Come on me, NOW! Do it!" he shouted at her.
Holly quivered at his demands. Artemis almost never raised his voice. When he did, she couldn't help but obey. She tensed entirely around him and shuddered as her climax struck.
"Ah! Fuck! Artemis... I'm... I'm... Ahhhh!" she shouted as her juices gushed out over him.
As her pussy walls squeezed and spasmed against his member, he released his own climax, shooting his cum deep into her body. He slowed his movements within her before coming to a complete stop. Stars danced behind his eyelids as he came down from his euphoric high, induced by what was quite possibly the rawest sex they had ever had.
Holly gulped down air greedily for several moments before lifting herself free from their coupling. She felt the fluids release from within her and spill out on to him. Artemis felt it too and furrowed his eyebrows.
"Can you reach the tissues in the back seat?" he asked her.
Holly smiled sheepishly. "Yeah." She reached behind the driver's seat and found the box he was referring to. She pulled a few out and wiped out their mess then tossed the soiled tissue into the back foot well. "We'll throw them out later."
Artemis studied her carefully. She seemed to have returned to her normal self. "What, may I ask, provoked that?"
Holly blushed. "Ummm, well…. Nothing major. I mean, I... um. I must have just been really glad to see you." she stuttered.
"You're lying. You know, even if I wasn't your partner and couldn't sense the deception from you, you would be fooling no one. You're a terrible liar."
"Really? I think I'm pretty convincing. But I guess I'm nothing compared to an expert." Holly retorted.
"Touché, Holly. Nonetheless, you're lying to me. Why?" he replied flatly.
Holly pouted and looked away from him. "I, uh, saw a movie today." she admitted.
"A movie?"
Holly nodded.
"What movie did you see?" he asked.
Holly gave him a look of dread and embarrassment. "Um. an adult movie…?" she whispered.
Artemis's eyes widened. "What? You watched a pornographic film?"
Holly grimaced. "It was an accident! I didn't know what it was about until it was too late! Then... I was just curious..."
Artemis laughed. "Oh Holly. I do not care that you watched an adult film. Next time you're curious about that sort of thing, just be sure to include me. It's not fun when you're alone and frustrated." He spoke from experience.
Holly smirked. "Yeah, right. Like you'd watch something like that with me."
Artemis gave her a wicked grin.
"Would you? Wait... have you watched that sort of thing before?"
Artemis dark smile turned into a vampire grin and he said nothing in acknowledgment. Instead, he diverted her attention. "Will you be driving home, or shall I? Either way, I'd like to get dressed and cannot do so with you sitting on me, love."
"Artemis!" she whined.
"Yes darling?" he replied with mock innocence.
"Have. You. Watched. Porn." she demanded.
Artemis grinned guiltily. "I've watched many things, Holly. Of which, certain cinema has also piqued my curiosity before. Though, I assure you, only cinema of the highest quality."
Holly gaped. "Well. There's something I never would have guessed."
Artemis squeezed her naked little bum. "Get up, please. I would like to get dressed now." he said softly.
Holly crawled over the center console, back into the driver's seat. She fished her clothes out from the floor and redressed herself while Artemis did the same.
Artemis started on the buttons to his shirt then reached the first missing one. "You destroyed my shirt." he said.
Holly looked at him. Black suit, white shirt only half done up, messed up hair. "You look hot, Arty. Maybe I'll destroy all your shirts." she smiled mischievously.
He smiled back wryly. "I do not. I look like someone who just got attacked in a car by a wild cat." he laughed.
Holly smirked. "You wanna drive?" she asked.
"Not particularly. But I will if you want me to."
"No, I'll drive. I like driving." Holly offered.
"Then by all means."
Holly tore onto the motorway, hearing the transmission clicking through the gears as she did. "I don't like automatics. It's like you're not even driving." she complained.
"It is a luxury sedan Holly. Of course it is going to be an automatic."
"Well, at least she can haul." she said as she floored it. "What's under the hood?"
"A finely tuned 440 horsepower TwinTurbo V-8." Artemis replied.
"440? Wait, this can't be just a 5-speed." she noticed. "You said you didn't have a 6 speed."
"I don't." he smiled his vampire smile. "This is an 8 speed."
"So facetious..." she mumbled. Artemis drove her crazy sometimes. Still, it was who he was. And who he was, was who she loved.
The next morning Holly found herself exhausted and Artemis insisted she stay in bed. He joined his father and brothers for breakfast.
"Just us men this morning?" Artemis Senior commented.
"Yes. Holly is not feeling very well this morning." Artemis replied as Butler placed his breakfast in front of him.
"That's too bad. Your mother was very sick with you. She did better with the twins though. She was so funny during the beginning of her second trimester... eating the oddest combinations of food." his father said wistfully.
Artemis gave him a sad smile. He had missed the twins' pregnancy and entire infancy. When Artemis returned, he suddenly had 2 year old brothers that hadn't even been conceived yet when he left. He felt awful that he missed out on that. Especially since he was old enough to appreciate the miracles of pregnancy and babies. At least Myles was already out of diapers by the time he came home so he was never asked to change a diaper. Not that he would have. They had a baby nurse for that.
Suddenly, Artemis's phone vibrated on his belt clip. He looked down to see no ID on the display. "Artemis Fowl speaking." he answered.
"Hi Artemis. It's No.1. I'm calling from a communicator! How cool is that? Foaly rigged it to your phone line for me!"
Artemis smiled. "Very… cool." he said in a reluctant tone. "It's good to hear from you. How are you?"
"Good, thanks. Hey, I'm going to be there in like two minutes. Thought I'd give you a little warning. Holly told me to just show up but I didn't think you'd be too keen on that. So I wasn't sure which shuttle I was going to be able to catch but anyway, I got up here quicker than I thought."
Artemis took a sharp breath before standing to leave the table. Butler immediately gave him a look of concern. It was obvious to him that Artemis had been told something he wasn't happy about, now that he was leaving the table for privacy.
Once in the formal dining hall, a very unused room, Artemis continued his phone conversation. "No.1. I wasn't expecting you for another day. I am not yet prepared. My family isn't leaving until tonight." Artemis's mother was on her way home from the spa with Juliet and tonight his parents were taking the twins to Artemis's Senior's sister's house in Kilkenny for the weekend.
"It's okay, I put a spell on. No one will suspect a thing. Hey, I'm here now. Open the front door."
Artemis grimaced as he walked to the front door. He opened it to find 'Travis', No.1's eerily handsome alter ego, standing outside the door. He was smiling, wearing a short sleeve button-down and blue jeans.
"You had to wear jeans." Artemis commented wearily as he invited him in.
"It is the weekend you know."
"I know. Now Holly will make me change." He sighed.
"Maybe it would be good for you. You can't possibly be comfortable in suits all the time?" No.1 interjected.
"Actually, I'm very comfortable. Perhaps they are not the most physically comfortable outfit, but I am most comfortable in them."
"Insecure?" No.1 jested.
Artemis narrowed his eye. Yes, actually. He said nothing in response.
"Don't worry about it Artemis. I don't think I'd be able to recognize you in anything but a suit."
"Would you like to join my family for breakfast? I was just about to eat when you called."
"Yes, I'd love that. If it's okay, I mean."
"Of course. But remember, you are not my cousin. You are..." Artemis looked at his human facade. "an old friend from school." Artemis decided. Travis looked about the same age as Artemis. Plus his parents would be pleased to think Artemis actually had a friend the many years he lived away from home in an all-boys boarding school.
"Am I still 'Travis'?" he asked.
"Yes, of course."
They joined Artemis's family at the table and Artemis introduced 'Travis' to his father and brothers. As suspected, his father was pleased to hear this young man visiting Artemis was a school friend. Good call... Artemis thought to himself. Then, I hope he knows he's just a friend. Both Artemis Senior and Junior attended St. Bartleby's School for Young Gentlemen. Artemis saw many things he never wished to… many that stained his memory to this day. He had no doubt his father had some stories as well. Artemis unconsciously shuddered at the memories.
Artemis Senior and Beckett asked Travis questions about himself and Artemis the Second was quite impressed by the story he compiled so quickly and convincingly. He could only imagine there had to be a small level of truth in the responses he gave for them to be so convincing. No.1 was just explaining how he never knew his parents growing up and was raised by an uncle, but since had been reunited with his mother. Then the group of men heard the front door opening from down the hall.
Butler immediately went to the door but saw it was just Mrs. Fowl and Juliet. "Hello Madam. Juliet. How did you two get home, if you don't mind my asking."
"Oh I didn't want to bother you Butler, driving all that way again. I called the livery service the hotel uses and had them drive us home." Angeline explained.
"I see. I hope you both had an enjoyable time. I didn't expect you back until later this evening." Butler responded.
"It was wonderful, yes. And we decided to come home early since I need to get the boys ready to go to their aunt's tonight."
"Ah. Well the family is sitting down for breakfast now." Butler directed their attention towards the kitchen.
"Oh good." Angeline scurried off to find her husband. Juliet followed behind.
Once Angeline burst into the kitchen, her eyes shot to her husband first. "Hi honey! I missed you so!" she said as she went to him and planted a kiss right on him. Artemis Senior pulled back slightly as he wasn't much of one for public displays of affection, at least in front of strangers.
"Honey. So good to see you." he started. "Have you met Travis yet?" he brought her attention to their company.
Angeline looked around to see the young man beside Artemis. "No! I haven't had the pleasure. I'm sorry. I'm Angeline Fowl, Arty's mother." she introduced herself as she extended her hand to greet him.
Travis gave her a small shake. "A pleasure, Madam."
Juliet came in to view moments later and saw Mrs. Fowl introducing herself to… Hello, gorgeous! she thought. Some hot, stylish… young… delicious guy. The temperature in the room seemingly increased 10 degrees…
"Oh, how rude of me. This is Juliet Butler. The Butler's youngest sister. She is part of our security detail here at the manor." Angeline said as she introduced Juliet to Travis.
No.1 stood to greet the beauty and when Juliet extended her hand to shake it, he turned her wrist to kiss her hand tenderly. "The pleasure is all mine, Miss Juliet." he smiled at her.
Woo… Juliet thought as she smiled bashfully. "Why, thank you. How long will you be staying?"
"Until after the wedding." No.1 replied.
"How wonderful. I look forward to getting to know you better." Juliet smiled coyly. Much. MUCH. Better.
Artemis's eyebrows shot up. Oh gods... no!
Oh you know what's happening next don't you? Oh yeah...
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