"Breakfast in bed, love?" Menke leaned up on his elbow to look down at his beautiful wife, who lay sleepily on her side, one arm curled under her head. Her black and gold mane spread around her like a fan, as she rolled onto her back and stretched.
"Yes please." Yawning, she arched her back, rubbing her face sleepily.
"Well go and get it then!" Grinning, he snagged the duvet and hauled it around himself tightly, so only his bright green eyes could be seen, twinkling mischievously.
"Lazy lump!" She moaned, curling into a ball with another yawn.
Laughing, he unfurled the duvet and pulled her into his arms. "You're one to talk!" kissing her, his hands wandered down her body and started tickling her, a loud shriek and her thrashing arms and legs suggesting a quiet protestation at this.
"Stoppit! She squealed, laughing with relief as she was pinned down and the duvet was pulled over both of them.
Gazing down at her, he smiled, kissing the tip of her nose. "You know, Mrs Strep," He remarked in a somewhat conversational tone. "I believe I love you."
"I am delighted to say," She replied impishly in the same tone. "I reciprocate." Swatting him playfully across the head. "But right now, I want my brekkus!"
"What would Tugger say if he saw this?" Menke groaned, sliding out from under the covers and standing up, stretching every inch of his six foot, four inch of his boxer-short-clad, superbly toned body.
"See what?" Demi teased. "You in Calvin Kleins?"
Striking a pose, he grinned. "The great Munkustrap." He intoned gravely. "Boxer-short wearer and Brekkus-in-bed maker extraordinaire!" Cracking up, he shook his tousled head. "I would never have believed it."
"At the speed you're moving, neither will be true soon."
Raising a devilish eyebrow, he smirked. "Oh really? Is that prophesy or promise, dear?"
"If you wanna keep those shorts on, you better move now." She threatened.
Standing stock still, Menke eyed her. "Look," He pointed to his feet. "I'm not moving…and the shorts are still on…"
A rattle from the front door made them both grin, as they yelled in unison. "I'll get it!"
Leaping off the bed, Demi hurtled passed Menke in a blur, yanking his shorts down as she went, with the triumphant shout of. "They're off now!"
"No fair!" He howled, hauling them up hastily and running after her as she flew down the spiral staircase.
"Alls fair in love and war and getting to the letter box first!" She crowed back triumphantly, tearing down the stairs.
"Guess again!" Menke whooped as he whizzed down the banister passed her, shooting off the bottom and landing in a heap at the door, snatching the bundle of mail up triumphantly. "I won!"
"You cheat!" She pouted as he stood up, flicking through the pile, watching her out of the corner of his eye. "Thou art a cheat of epic proportions!"
"And I have something that might interest you here…" He waved a black envelope above her head. "McCafferty Enterprises."
"Ronan?" Leaping up, she snagged the letter. "I haven't seen him in about six months …since about a week after our wedding." Tearing open the envelope, her eyes skimmed the words and gave a delighted laugh. "He did it!"
"Did what?" Menke drifted towards the kitchen, reading one of his own letters.
"Got himself sorted out!" Demi followed him, reading the three-page letter as she walked. "He's not living in the streets anymore. He invited us to a party at…" She traced her finger along the line. "The Carlton Palace, to celebrate his…oh my gosh…"
"His?" Prompted her husband, switching on the kettle as he glanced over at her.
"First ten million!" She gasped, one hand to her mouth in a gallic gesture of surprise and astonishment. "Last time I saw him, he didn't have a penny to his name!"
"Sounds like a…useful chap to know." Menke grinned as she slipped her arms around his waist, resting her cheek against his muscled back, as he poured a cup of coffee with her. "So, when'' this party? I want to see who this financial genius is."
"May the 11th. Next week."
"Typical!" He groaned, handing her the mug. "I can't make it. I want to be in the anniversary cast this year."
"That's okay." Kissing him fondly on the cheek, she smiled. "I'll go along. I want to see what he's been getting up to. I'm sure you'll have fun at work."
"As if you'll enjoy the party without me there!" He laughed, drawing her into his arms. "Givus a kiss, sweetheart!"
"Not until you shave, hairy." She blinked innocently up at him.
With a huff of indignation, he shook his head. "You never used to complain about my facial fuzz, darlin'."
"And you didn't complain that I never shaved my legs, furball." She retorted, grinning over the rim of her coffee cup.
"I…er…" Picking his brains for a witty answer, he gave her a helpless look as she raised an expectant golden eyebrow. "What can I say?" He grinned sheepishly. "I'm a guy."
"And that's why I love you." She purred. "I'm going back to bed…care to join me?"
As she started up the stairs, she glanced back over her shoulder, a naughty smirk on her lips. Shaking his head, a grin of disbelief spreading from ear to ear, Menke punched the air with delight and a yell of "Ai Chihuahua!" before sprinting after her.
*
"Well, Phipps," Raising his eyes to his most loyal agent, the man who had once been Ronan McCafferty, curled his sensual lips in a smile. "Have we had word from my little …friend yet?"
Nodding soundlessly at his leader's words, Phipps flipped on the monitor of the close-circuit camera with the remote, the image of Demi's arrival flashing up on the massive screen. Leaning back in his chair, McCafferty propped his feet on the massive oak desk, steepling his fingers thoughtfully.
In what had been the throne room of the Lair, the underhand dealings – that had gained McCafferty the success and wealth he required – were masterminded. Only he and his agents knew of this particular…place.
Having purchased the adjacent property legally, he had 'acquired' the lair under an alternate name, so if any criminal activities were linked to that place, he could feign innocence. Not – it was clear – that he planned to get caught. He had never been caught before and didn't intend to start now.
"Have the car brought around." He murmured softly, rising to his feet. "I think its time I paid my party a visit."
*
Smoothing a stray lock of hair back from her lover's face, Roxie straddled McCafferty's thighs with her own, her blue eyes half-closed as he teased her with his expert hands.
Always a good lover, he had improved so much in his new form. There were so many things these bodies could do that felines couldn't, which Roxie had realised the moment she bonded with the body he had chosen for her.
In the evenings, when he had no need for her, she would walk the streets, waiting for her paying lovers to arrive, to take her away and couple with her, giving her a large wad of cash and plenty of information that she relayed religiously onto her favourite lover.
Even so, he rarely coupled with her anymore, letting her other mates satisfy her needs, while he used and manipulated the information she received for him. Still, he would always hold a special place in her heart and the nights that they did come together were the most exhausting she could remember.
"Time for you to go to work, angelface." He trailed one finger over her full lips, smiling as she teasingly nipped the tip. "Remember, I'm relying on you to find the weaknesses of these men."
"I know." Planting a firm kiss on his lips, she felt his hand glide sensuously up her back, slowly drawing her away, as the car rolled to a halt. "Try not to enjoy yourself too much, lover."
"You know me too well, sweetheart." As she arose elegantly out of the car, his eyes traced the curve of her rear, temptingly clad in an ominously tight and short leather skirt, her silky stockings accentuated by her high heels and long, lithe legs.
Leaning in the window, she straightened his tie fondly, her slightly slanted blue eyes twinkling. She was beautiful. He had to admit he had chosen well. Such an outrageously sexy body was only suitable for a woman such as her.
Stepping away from the car, she walked away, her wonderfully sexy strut a fascinating and captivating spectacle as she tossed her golden mane back over her shoulder, her barely concealed bosom swelling promisingly.
*
Feeling insanely out of place, Demi gazed around at the groups of wealthy businessmen and women. They all looked expensively-dressed and disdainful of the pretty young vet. Sighing, Demi self-consciously rubbed her slim hands down her dress: The same black and gold silk sheath she had worn to meet Menke that first night.
To be totally honest with herself, she had to admit she was the cheapest-dressed person there. Obviously the company was very prestigious, but Demi would never have pictured Ronan mingling with such types.
Her eyes wandered over the faces, settling on the massive mahogany doors that were creaking slowly open and she – like any other red-blooded person in the room – audibly gasped as the newcomer confidently stepped into the room.
The lust and envy crackled in the air, as the man's sensual lips curled into a smile, nodding greetings to the observers. Demi stumbled back a pace, leaning heavily on the table behind her, one hand clutched to her breast, trying to still her thundering heart.
*
Good golly gosh! It should be illegal for someone to have that effect on anyone! I don't know what the hell he did, but…phew…if I ever saw an image of walking, talking sex appeal, its him.
Such an overwhelming presence. You'd think he'd get paranoid with everyone staring at him, positively salivating over him, but no. He just stands their, dripping magnetism. Pure and unadulterated sexual magnetism. And, boy! Does he know how to use it!
Even standing still, he's like on of those Greek gods, simply there to be worshipped! I don't know what's come over me! I mean, I adore Menke. He means the world to me, but this guy – he has looks, appeal, attitude…and I'm married for heaven's sake! But those eyes…such piercingly clear eyes…that firm jaw…those lips….such wildly sensual and kissable lips…
Oh man! No! Don't look over here! Not at me! There's only a wall of hair here…can't see me! Don't come over! No! Please?
"Demi?" Whatta voice! It barely struck me that he knew my name. I was too busy floating away on the silky huskiness of the rich Irish accent.
"Um…have we met?" I managed to ask faintly as I wondered where my legs had gone too. I tell ya, one minute they were there, the next it felt like they melted to nothing.
"I'd hope so." He laughed gently, sending another ripple of delight through me. Running a hand down his sleeked-back copper mane that was pulled into a ponytail, hanging neatly between his shoulder blades, he tweaked at his neat beard, remarking. "I did manage to have a haircut since you last saw me…and I'm not wearing your friend's clothes now."
"R…Ronan?" That's it. I'm dead. I'm gonna pass out. The impossible has happened.
"You seem a little surprised to see me…you're not…disappointed are you?" Even his worried expression hit me like a punch to the stomach. He looked so much taller, sleeker …sexier than I remembered him being.
Realising he had asked me a question, I hastily backtracked to his words and stumbled over my own in an effort to reassure him. "No…no! You…you look great! Y…er… you've changed a lot."
Boy, did I feel 100% stupid, going gaga over a guy I've known for years, especially when I'm married! And happily married at that!
I'm assuming that I've changed is indeed a good thing." He gave me another reduce-legs-to-jelly smile, his intense green eyes shining. I just nodded weakly. "Lets get ye a drink."
"I think I might need one." I muttered under my breath.
*
Spending an evening in the company of Ronan McCafferty, Demi felt like she was a Queen for the night.
As he swept her out onto the dance-floor, she could hear the jealous comments from the other women, pointing out the gold band on her finger, complaining that they were more worthy than some slip of a girl.
If only they knew the full story. McCafferty pulled Demi closer, dancing in a style reminiscent of the Tango with a surprising dexterity.
"I didn't know you could dance." She breathed, her face resting against his chest, his heart thumping lightly in time with the music in her ear.
Tracing his fingers lightly across her bare back, barely acknowledging her shiver, he murmured. "There's a lot more about me that you don't know, Dem…so much I could show you."
Her eyes sank closed, as they swayed to the lilting music and she found herself wondering what it would be like to feel Ronan's body against hers in an even more intimate situation.
Feeling her arms around his neck, he let one hand slip down, brushing promisingly across her smooth derriere, as he tilted her face up to his. Brushing his cheek against hers, his lips stroked tentatively over her own and she gave a contented sigh.
Lowering his lips to hers, he mentally smiled as she responded, her body arching against his for a few brief seconds, before her eyes snapped open and she pulled away, shaking her head, her face flushed and flustered.
"I'm sorry." She gasped, turning and running across the dance-floor, one hand pressed to her face.
Following her, he caught up with her at the reception, grabbing her by the arm. "Demi, that was my fault, I'm sorry…I think we both had too much to drink…"
"Yes…yes…" She agreed readily, her face scarlet. "Too much too drink…I'm sorry…I have to go…I can't stay." Staring up at him, she shook her head. "Please understand, its not your fault."
"I understand," Running his fingers gently though her hair, he gave her a sad smile that wrenched her heart. Slipping his evening jacket off, he draped it around her bare shoulders. "I'll call a cab for you."
Sinking into the plush velvet seat beside the reception desk, Demi cast him a weak smile, pulling the jacket around her. "Thank you, Ronan." She managed to whisper through taut lips.
*
Something happened to Demi at that party tonight. She won't talk about it, but I can see she's upset about something.
I got in from work with Rina and she was sitting on the sofa, a cold mug of coffee clenched in her hands, still in her fancy clothes. I've never seen her acting like that before. As soon as I shut the door, she got up and walked upstairs and by the time I went to bed, the pillow was wet with her tears.
"Menke." She whispered softly, not even turning to face me. "I don't deserve you. I really don't."
That worries me. Does it mean she's having an affair? Does it mean she wants to split up? I shouldn't get paranoid like this, but when both Macavity and Alonzo tried to steal her from me before, it tends to make me wary.
So, I did the only thing I could. I took her in my arms and reminded her that I died for her, that I live for her and that if anything happened, I don't know what I'd do without her, but it only seemed to make her worse. Maybe I sounded too sappy. I do have a tendency to go over the top.
She turned over and buried her face in my chest and I could smell the scent of wine on her lips as she whispered. "I'm sorry…I almost did it…he wanted me to go with him…" That's all she said before falling asleep against my chest, her breathing even.
The fatal words. Only softened by the single word – 'almost'. That means she was faithful to me, but there was only one person before that 'almost' made her leave…and that person eventually just took her anyway, despite the fact she was mine. Macavity.
It seems there are Macavity's in both the feline and human world. It's not very reassuring, but at least we know what we are up against. She's mine and I'll do what I must to protect her, be it from psycho cats or drunken slobs. Whose to know.
And yes, I am an overprotective, soppy, massive, great, big ex-tomcat. And I'm glad! Glad I tell ya! What can I say? Old habits die hard!
*
"Sir? Are you awake?" Phipps peered around the door, spotting the empty double bed. Edging into the room, he heard the rush of water in the shower and cleared his throat, starting towards the door.
A voice halted him in his tracks. "Phipps? Is that you?"
Phipps felt a thousand butterflies explode to life in his stomach, wishing that he hadn't agreed to remain working for McCafferty enterprises for the hundredth time that day, his hands shaking around the folder he was carrying.
"Yes sir." He turned to see the en suite shower door slide open, as Ronan stepped out, his long, damp hair loose about his muscular shoulder, his body clad in a damp towel that concealed very little of him.
Walking across the room with the controlled grace of a big cat, he gave Phipps a lazy, yet dangerous smile. Stepping passed the older man, he slowly pushed the door shut, turning the heavy key in the lock.
His back against the door, his green eyes glittered wickedly as he gazed at Phipps. "Just to make certain we aren't disturbed." He purred silkily, running one hand down his solid, moisture-coated chest.
Gesturing for his compatriot to sit down at the large seat at the desk, he pretended not to notice the beads of sweat breaking out on Phipps' forehead, as he sat down on the edge of the massive mahogany structure, the towel riding up his dripping thighs.
"What news do you have for me?" Never taking his eyes away from the nervous businessman, McCafferty inclined his head with a wicked smile. "All good I hope…you would want a bonus, don't you?"
"Its all the best news, sir." With trembling, sweating hands, Phipps handed his master the folder, swallowing hard. "All your legitimate businesses are bringing in at least fifty per cent profits and the…others are doing equally well."
"That's very good news." McCafferty nodded absently.
Standing up, he loosened the towel around his waist, slowly starting to towel himself down under Phipps incredulous gaze.
Moistening his lips with the tip of his tongue, the businessman cleared his throat, running his finger nervously along the inside of his collar as he stared at the muscles in Ronan's back rippling lightly.
"Sir…perhaps I should go?" He suggested, shifting his folder so it lay across his lap. He was having enough trouble breathing, let alone talking.
"Don't be ridiculous, Phipps." His deep, rich laugh made Phipps shiver with delight, as he dropped the towel and pulled on a loose robe, turning to face his companion. "I want to talk to you a while."
Swivelling the chair around, he leaned down, his hands on the arms of the chair, his silky hair still loose. His face barely inches from Phipps', he tilted his head curiously with a shy smile. "You're not afraid of me, are you, my friend?"
Swallowing hard, Phipps shook his head vehemently, his eyes wandering down his master's body as the robe fell open. "No, sir." He mumbled, taking all of his strength to stifle a moan of desire.
"And you've always been faithful to me, haven't you, Phipps?" Struck by the obvious double-entendre, Phipps nodded weakly. How could he ever betray this man. A man he feared and adored more with each day.
Tilting the older man's face up to his, McCaffety's smile sent thrills racing down Phipps' spine. The smile seemed to suggest that if anything further happened, it was bound to be good. Very good.
His hand still gently cupping his friend and agent's face, Ronan's thumb gently stroked Phipps' cheek, his eyes dark, shadowed.
"I told you that you would get a bonus, didn't I?" He murmured, his voice a husky whisper. "Name it. You can have anything…"
Sweat was pouring down his face as he stumbled to his feet, pushing his way past McCafferty. "I have to go, sir." He gasped, his breath escaping in ragged pants. "I have to go so…" He fumbled with the key in the lock.
"Oh, Phipps." Ronan sighed sadly, his expression full of disappointment. "You are scared of me, aren't you?"
Reluctantly turning around, the expression on his master's face made his heart break. NO! The bastard's a master of twisting emotions! Walk away. Get out! Leave him and forget about it. It'll never happen.
He turned back to the door, trying to twist the key, but it wouldn't move. A hand fell on his shoulder and he whirled around to come face to face with Ronan.
"Phipps, darlin', whats the hurry?" One hand against the door, his body trapping Phipps' between him and the panel of wood, McCafferty easily pulled the key out, tossing it casually over his shoulder. "We aren't goin' to be disturbed and yet, ye want to run away from me."
"Please, sir." McCafferty's hand ran down his cheek, slipping to his tie.
"Come now, darlin'." Sliding his hand under his companion's shirt, Ronan gave him one of his dazzling smiles. "You've wanted this for a long time…and what better bonus for me prize agent?"
Pressing his lips urgently to Phipps', he felt the sophisticated businessman throw off all his qualms, responding hungrily. So much for being a reluctant party, McCafferty thought, with a mental grin. This was one way to secure his agent's loyalty and damn! It was fun too!
"Do you love me, Phipps?"
Nodding weakly, breathless from the kiss, Phipps mumbled. "Yes, sir."
Discarding the worthless shirt, he pushed the sweat-soaked dark hair back from his face and softly asked. "Will you always be loyal to me, Phipps."
"Always, sir."
Smiling, he nodded. "That's my boy." He murmured huskily. "That's my boy."
*
Sitting on the wide window-ledge, I watched Phipps leaving this morning. I had suspected Macavity – that is McCafferty – would be as depraved in human form as he had been in feline. What I saw confirmed my suspicions.
I got back late, cos I found another of the boss' old agents – Genghis. He is the leader of the immigrant underground, which doesn't surprise me, but he still wants to work with McCafferty.
I didn't know how to react to seeing Phipps in the bed that Ronan and I still sometimes shared. I should have been jealous and angry, but no. Ronan knows what he's doing. And Phipps is weak.
Instead, I took Genghis to my rooms on the top floor, overlooking the city and gave him a free session. If Macavity can have fun with anyone, why can't I?
Barely minutes after Phipps exited the building, I heard the familiar sound of the boss' footfalls on the stairs. Manipulation and cruelty always did turn him on…but I knew him finding a stranger in my bed wouldn't exactly do me a lot of good.
And I was right. He gave Genghis a battering, letting him know who was boss I suppose, leaving the poor sod bleeding and half-conscious. But if I thought that was bad, I didn't know what was in store for me.
I had never even imagined anyone having such brutal, inhuman strength. For the first time, I knew what Demeter had gone through And for the first time, seeing at the hatred and rage burning in Macavity's eyes, I knew I was staring death in the face.
And I didn't like it one little bit.
*
After Roxie's body was lugged away to be tossed into the river, McCafferty silently walked through his palatial home, waiting for his guest to arrive.
Several days had passed since the party and obviously Demi felt confident that she wasn't weakened by the influence of drink. Confident enough to believe she could resist him again.
He heard to voice of Andy Hendrix yelling from the bottom of the stairs that she had arrived and allowed himself another chilling smile.
Walking slowly down the curved staircase, he felt his heart leap as he saw her standing there. Something in this pathetic body of his just could not resist her, even when she looked as scruffy as she did now.
Clad in jeans and a baggy denim shirt, her hair hung in wild waves around her shoulder, falling almost to her waist. A bright smile that seemed to illuminate the room lit up her stunning features, her golden eyes crinkling as she ran forward and kissed him fondly on both cheeks, sending fireworks exploding in his head again.
"Nice to see you again, Demi, darlin'." He held her hands in his, gazing down at her longingly. "You look stunnin'."
A pretty blush suffused her cheeks and she lowered her head with a giggle. "You flatter me, Ronan." She managed to reply. "You look pretty good yourself."
"Why thank you, milady." Sweeping into a mock bow, he raised her hand to his lips, barely brushing the smooth skin. His chest seemed to feel unnaturally tight and he forced another smile. "Can I get you something to drink?"
"Sounds good to me." She smiled, shyly slipping her arm around his waist. "Lead on McDuff."
*
Why, oh why did I come? Am I insane? Do I wanting to betray Menke? I don't understand why I can't stay away from Ronan. He was a friend and now…now I keep wondering what it would be like if he were more than that.
Even if I try and tell myself to leave, I can't resist looking at him. And each time I look at him, he gives me that smile that paralyses me in my tracks. Either way, I'm trapped here, with a man I want more than I can ever remember wanting anyone else.
Like me, he's dressed casually today and he chats lightly to me, seemingly unaware of the discomfort I feel at every glance and touch.
The way he sits…the way his jeans fit…the way that long copper mane of his hangs perfectly around those amazing cheekbones…those green eyes that seem to see everything and nothing…everything about him is irresistible.
I can't even think of an argument anymore. I want him.
*
Sipping the coffee, she looks so delicate. So beautiful. I thought I could deal with these feeling…these 'emotions' she stirs in this body. He really loved her…and I can see why. I love her in a way I don't and can never understand…plus I want to take her right now.
We're alone. I made sure of that. We couldn't be disturbed, even if a bomb went off outside the door, it wouldn't affect us.
"Ow!" Her coffee cup smashed to the floor, both her slim white hands clutched to her beautiful golden eyes. "Somethings gone in my eye!" Wincing, she pressed her slender fingertips against her eyelids. "Ow! Ow!"
"Demi?" Gently, I take her face in my hands. She tenses, but I know. She's attracted to this body. Geez, even a blind man could see that! All I have to do is…persuade her that its right to give in to these feelings.
Staring into those dazzling, golden eyes, I want to pin her and take her like I did so long ago. I want her. All of her. Curse this body!
One of her fingers moves lightly across the back of my hand, her eyes staring deep into mine, trusting me…no. Trusting the Ronan that she once knew. Not me. Not me at all. She doesn't know.
It's my body now. I'll do what I want.
*
Insistent firm lips come down on mine, a strong masculine flavour flooding my mouth, the scent and feel overwhelming my senses. It's so powerful. So deliciously dominant and tempting, I sink back and let it take over me.
Strong arms force me down, on my back…but something about that triggered a distant memory in me. A memory of a monster.
Opening my eyes, I see Ronan staring at me with an intensity that terrifies me. The monster is there. In his dark, savage eyes.
Jerking away, I stumble to my feet, backing towards the door, a sick feeling clawing at the pit of my stomach as I feel solid wood brush against my back, my hand groping for the handle as he lazily turns those brutal eyes towards me.
Glancing back at the door, he's suddenly in front of me, one of his strong hands slamming both of mine against the wood above my head, his lips attacking mine again. I scream, but no one hears.
"So you figured it out, did you, Demeter?" His voice has changed to something that I remember and wish I didn't. The full length of his massive muscular body presses against mine, as he tilts my head back, his hand twisted in my hair.
"Why?" I don't know why I asked, because I already knew the answer, but anything to buy a little time.
He smiled coolly as I struggle desperately. "You know there's no escape from me, Demeter." He runs his tongue up my ear, the combined shiver of pleasure and horror sickening me.
"NO!"
He draws back, that chilling smile still etched on his lips. "No?" Tutting, he wags a finger at me reprovingly, that flicker of danger glowing in his eyes. "Don't you remember what happened the last time you said no?"
The world gathers in around me suffocatingly and I know that I have to get out of here if I ever want to see the light of day again. By any means necessary.
*
That bitch! That vicious little bitch! I've never felt pain like it before! Even when I fought the Jellicles! Hell! Now I know why human men are so protective of that part of their anatomy! I don't think I'll walk for a month! How can one girl's knee be so damn hard?
I manage to stumble to the window, out of which she leapt what seems like minutes ago. It can only really be a few seconds since she attacked me, though, because I can see her running out into the street, desperately flagging down a cab.
She thinks she safe away from me. She thinks her precious Munkustrap can protect her. Like the old days.
Well, if she wants to do things the old-fashioned way, two can play at that game. She'll regret crossing Macavity. She'll pay.
*
Carefully opening the door, Menke crept in quietly, hoping he wouldn't disturb Demi. He was later than usual and assumed she was in bed when something hurtled passed his head, smashing against the wall behind him, a familiar voice screaming. "Who is it? Who's there?"
Flicking on the light, he stared at the source of the voice, then looked down at the shattered vase on the floor.
"Dem? What's going on?"
Throwing herself into his arms, she buried her face in the reassuringly strong muscles of his chest and sobbed softly. "He came back, Menke…he's come for me again…he'll never let me go…never…"
Gently lifting her in his arms, he carried her up the stairs to their room, laying her gently on the bed, his penetrating eyes meeting hers. "Who has come back, Dem?" He asked softly, as she clutched at his hands desperately, her eyes wide with fear.
"Macavity." She whimpered, her face a mask of terror. "He's alive and he's coming to get me…he tried to get me today…I ran…I ran as fast as I could…"
"That's impossible, Dem." Menke shook his head, trailing a long strand of her sweat-soaked her through his gentle fingers.
"Is it?" She whispered, blinking back another rush of tears. "We're here and we both died…why would it be impossible, Menke?"
Menke sighed. Ever since he had told her who he was and she had remembered the past, she had been haunted by the nightmares of the ginger tom.
"I saw him, Menke." She mumbled, sinking back against the pillows wearily. "You might not believe me, but I saw him…"
"I know, love, I know." He nodded, wishing he could wipe all of the memories and nightmares of her last life that haunted her. Kissing her pale cheek gently, he untangled his fingers from hers as he stood up, tenderly pulling the light sheet over her body. As long as she lived, she would be stalked by her memories.
Rolling onto her side, her dark lashes a sooty smudge on her cheek, she gave a half-sigh, half-yawn in her sleep.
Menke traced one hand lightly down the contours of her lovely body, wondering how soon she would wake – screaming – in the grip of some nightmare as she had, so many nights before.
"I'll take care of you, beautiful." He vowed softly, gazing down at her. "I promise."