Thank you all for the reviews. I am having a bit of a writers block at the
moment and your thoughts and interest do help me to overcome it. This
chapter was particularly difficult to write. Please, please let me know
what you think.
Chapter 17
When Cole and Nicole reappeared in the Penthouse she immediately changed into her own shape.
"That was an interesting evening," she said sarcastically plopping into the chair. "Your mother does not like to waste time, does she?"
The half demon shrugged, "Well, it's in our interest, isn't it?"
Nicole did not say anything. She could not stop thinking about the suggested union between Cole and some powerful warlock. The thought was like a needle in her heart. She wanted to ask Cole about it, to hear again that he was not going to do it. But she so much feared the answer that she could not bring herself to ask him directly. "So how are you planning to retrieve the Grimoure. I though Leo chucked it into the volcano," she said instead.
Cole nodded, "We'll just ask him which volcano it was and retrieve it."
For a second Nicole even forgot about Cole's proposed marriage. She stared at him with huge eyes, "You kidding, right?"
It was his turn to look surprised, "No," he replied, "why would you think that?"
"Because, even if Leo tells you the truth. And I admit we have ways to persuade him. It's a volcano, for God's sake. The book has long turned to ashes."
Cole sighed exasperated, "Of course not," he said. "Grimoure is an ancient magical book created..."
The young woman rolled her eye, "Yeah, yeah," she interrupted him, "I know, thousands of years ago by the first Council of the Underworld consisting of a demon, a warlock, a vampire, a darklighter and a magician. It was made in the depth of the Underworld from the magical powers of all five Council members."
"Exactly," the half demon exclaimed. "And the depth of the Underworld is what?"
Nicole just stared at him blankly.
"It's hell fire," Cole explained, "which is pretty much the same as the volcano. So nothing happened to Grimoure in there, we just need to get it out."
"You mean we'll have to go into the volcano?" Nicole asked terrified.
"Not we, just me," Cole told her sternly. "You are not invincible, so I'll go alone." She was about to object, but he cut her off, "You know, I am right, Nicole. We sworn to do everything possible to fulfil our destiny and we have to do it."
"But we did not promise to be suicidal," she cried out. "You have no idea if your invincibility is going to be enough. Come on, Cole, you cannot be serious. If you start thinking like that you should marry this warlock woman because it will help fulfil our destiny."
A pained expression pierced blue eyes. Then Cole's face hardened, "I am not marrying a warlock, no matter what you or anybody else says," he growled and headed into his bedroom.
Nicole felt guilty and was about to stop the half demon, but he slammed the door behind him and she turned around. Why was she always apologising to him?
She went into her room. There she paced for a bit and then realised that she was too agitated to sleep. Nicole blurred into the underground garage and went for a long drive along the sea. The warm air ruffled her hair. And she welcomed fresh wind blowing into her face. She was hoping it would clear her head. Why did she mention this proposed marriage and so casually as if she did not care? And during this dinner in the Underworld she did not say anything, she just sat there with a plastered smile on her face. And it was Cole who fought against it. And she did not even try to support him. Was she going to just stand by and not do anything? Just hold on to her walls and keep Cole Turner at a distance? But what else could she do? Tell him how she really felt? For what? To hear back that he did not love her, that he still loved Phoebe. Nicole could not deny that Cole was attracted to her. And he probably honestly believed that him and Phoebe did not have a future but what would happen when Phoebe finally realized that she still loved him and wanted him back?
She ran her hand through her hair. She did not know what to do. She glanced at the car clock. Two o'clock in the morning. She should be going back. Cole would be worried if he discovered that she wasn't home. Nicole cursed, how did it happen that Cole Turner became the first and the last thing on her mind?
When Nicole got back into the penthouse she wanted to switch on the light and twisted the dimmer on the wall but the room remained dark. Nicole cursed. Great, now they did not have electricity. It was 21 century for God's sake. She decided it was time for some magical help. Nicole conjured a small fire ball which gave her enough light to see where she was going. She made a step towards her door but suddenly somebody grabbed her and the next moment Nicole found herself pinned to the floor, her arms trapped above her head, a strong hand pressing hard against her throat.
She struggled for breath, "Cole," she managed to croak.
The grasp on her throat loosened and a well aimed fireball hit the fireplace. The flames lit up the room. Nicole saw the half demon's face just above hers. He looked shocked.
"What the hell are you doing?" she hissed in his face.
"I am sorry," Cole removed his hand from her throat. "I thought you were an intruder. Old reflexes."
"So I see," Nicole muttered. Her initial fear disappeared and was replaced by embarrassment. Through the thin fabric of her dress she could feel the heat of his body. Cole was half dressed in a pair of black trousers and she could see short hairs on his chest. She expected that he would release her from his firm grip but Cole did not move.
"What are you doing here with a fireball in your hand?" he asked suspiciously.
Nicole glared at him, "I went for a drive," she snapped, "and when I got back there was no electricity, so I wanted to light my way by a fireball. I did not really expect you to attack me."
"Oh, excuse me," Cole retorted sarcastically. "But when somebody is wondering around my house at two in the morning with a fireball in one hand, I prefer at first to make sure they can't fry me and than ask questions."
"Nobody can fry you, Cole," Nicole's voice was full of derision, "so you can really afford to ask questions first."
"Not when I have your ass to protect," he replied.
"Ah, so now it's my fault that you almost strangled me?" she cried out, trying to wiggle out of his hands. "Would you mind getting of me?" she finally asked after her attempt failed.
"With pleasure," he quickly got up. Nicole struggled to her feet and glared at Cole. He glared back. "Next time you are in the mood for the middle of the night stroll, be so kind and let me know."
His mocking politeness infuriated her, "You know what, Cole, I don't have to tell you anything. I am an adult, for God's sake."
"Of course, you are," he drawled. "But if you care to remember the whole point of us living in this house together is to ensure your safety and it does not help when you wonder around on your own in the middle of the night."
"So what now I have to ask your permission to go out? Thank you but I am capable of taking care of myself."
"I did not notice you taking care of yourself when you were fighting for breath two minutes ago."
She knew that he was right but this wasn't the time to admit it. "Well, unlike somebody, I first think and then try to strangle my roommate. But thanks, for the pointer next time, when your reflexes take control again, I'll just electrocute you," she snapped.
They both stared at each other.
"Why are you so angry?" He asked. "I am sorry I attacked you but you know better than me that you should not wonder around on your own. It's not safe, especially now with the Halliwells on our case and my mother on a mission."
Nicole tried to compose her anger but in spite of her best efforts her frustration spilled. "Because I want some independence. Because I don't want for my life to completely depend on you. It's all nice and well now. But what will happen when our task is finished or even sooner if you marry this warlock? Are you going to tell your wife that I am your sister and make us live here as a happy family?" She took a deep breath trying to hold back tears and then said quietly in a chocked voice, "I can't do it, Cole. I simply can't."
Cole was surprised and relieved by her outburst. It proved to him that his proposed marriage bothered her. And that made him happy. For a short time this evening he feared she didn't care. He made a few steps towards her and lifted her chin forcing her to look at him. "It won't happen, Nicole," he said softly, "I am not going to marry this warlock."
"But..." she started.
"Not buts," he said pulling her closer. His mouth came down on hers and all protests were lost. He kissed her first very softly but when she responded, the kiss became more passionate, his tongue slipped inside her mouth exploring every corner of it. Her hands flew around his neck, her fingers muffling his hair. Nicole felt as if she was spinning down a vortex and only his strong hands around her waist prevented her from falling down. They broke apart for breath and stared at each other. For a second Cole thought she would change her mind and push him away but instead she lifted her hand and touched his face, her slim fingers caressing his cheek. There was so much warmth in her eyes that Cole lost it. He kissed her again with all the passion he felt and was glad when she responded to him as fiercely. Her hands moved down his back as if studying every muscle. Cole pulled away from her mouth and his lips travelled down her cheek and reached her neck. Nicole moaned as his tongue came in touch with her skin, licking it with just the right amount of pressure. She felt her body ignite and pushed herself closer to him, craving for the feel of his body. One of his hands left her back and reached to caress her thigh just at the edge of the hem. His fingers slowly slipped up and Nicole's body shuddered. "Cole," she moaned. His other hand travelled up her back and reached for the zipper. One swift move and her dress started to fall. The half demon took a step back to admire the result of his action. "You are so beautiful," he whispered in a hoarse voice. His eyes marvelled at the sight of her body now only covered by a small silk bikini and a see through open mantelet. Her face blushed and she gave him a look, which was shy and seductive at the same time. This look made him groan and he picked her up and blurred to the bedroom. It took them a second to get rid of the rest of their clothes and soon they were wrapped in a tight embrace exploring each other's bodies with their hands, tongues and mouths. Cole's mouth encircled one of her nipples and Nicole's body arched, soft moans escaping her mouth. Her hand slipped down his back tracing his spin with her nail. Cole moaned loudly. It was beyond what he could take. He pulled her closer and carefully slipped inside her. She gasped, her lips found his and both were lost in a rhythm of the moment.
Nicole woke up early. Cole was still asleep and that gave her a rare chance to look at him without interruptions. He looked really young even with a distinct morning shadow on his chin. She smiled. She could not believe that they had spent the night together. He stirred slightly and in his sleep pulled her closer. She rested her head on his chest. It felt so great to just lie here, with their bodies rapped around each other. She wished they did not have to go, did not need to get out in the world where the reality ruled. She frowned slightly. What would happen now? Would they both regret this night ever happened? All her worries from yesterday were ready to rush into her head. But she pushed them away. She would not spoil this morning. She had plenty of time to worry when she was on her own. She felt him stir again and lifted her head slightly. Blue eyes stared at her and he smiled.
"Morning," he said in a slightly hoarse voice.
"Morning," she smiled back.
Her smile was so beautiful that he was completely taken with it. It made him feel happy, relaxed. With Nicole he could be himself with all his wickedness, dark secrets, ambitious and possessiveness. He lifted her hand from his chest and kissed the white knuckles. Her smile widened and her eyes sparkled at him. It was amazing that with one look she could express so much. He gently rolled on top of her and kissed her slightly swollen lips. She tasted amazing, sweet and fresh. Her tongue gently slipped into his mouth and her fingers run through his hair. They were both lost in the kiss when the alarm on his night stand went off. Two hands stretched simultaneously in the direction of the sound and the alarm clock went flying into the wall. The ringing stopped and two lovers continued to explore each others mouths.
When they stopped for breath, Nicole whispered, "We'll be late."
"So what?" he murmured his mouth travelling down her neck. Her breathing became louder.
"It's our... first... week," she managed to utter and moaned loudly when his lips encircled one of her nipples taking it prisoner.
"So?" he asked a minute later his lips moving to her other breast.
Nicole struggled to remember what she was saying. "Cole," she moaned and gathered together all sense she had left, "we can't... we have... meetings."
The half demon stopped and Nicole felt a strong disappointment. He pulled away slightly, "Do we really have to go?" he asked with a grimace of a little boy that had been told to go to his room and do his homework.
Nicole tried to contain her laugh, "Oh, no, Cole Turner," she said trying to sound sternly. "I know it always worked on all your teachers, but I am much tougher and not going to fall for this look." She rolled over from under him and pulled the sheet to cover herself. The moment she was out of his arms, a strong feeling of a loss hit her, loss and fear for what would happen next. She busied herself with wrapping the sheet around her body, when she heard his voice.
"Would you go out with me tonight?"
Nicole froze and not believing her ears turned to him.
"What?" she asked her heart faltering.
He moved closer to her so she could see his eyes, "I asked would you go out with me tonight, on a date?" he repeated.
The young woman could no believe it, he was asking her out?! The half demon could see confusion in her eyes and explained. "I had a great night," he said quietly, "I don't want it to end."
Her eyes lit up and she smiled so broadly and happily that it answered all his questions. "Is it a yes?" he questioned her anyway, "or you had such horrible time with me that the whole idea of the repeat makes you speechless." She could see twinkles in his eyes and instead of answering she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately.
"It's a yes," she confirmed pulling away from him.
Please Review. Thanks.
Chapter 17
When Cole and Nicole reappeared in the Penthouse she immediately changed into her own shape.
"That was an interesting evening," she said sarcastically plopping into the chair. "Your mother does not like to waste time, does she?"
The half demon shrugged, "Well, it's in our interest, isn't it?"
Nicole did not say anything. She could not stop thinking about the suggested union between Cole and some powerful warlock. The thought was like a needle in her heart. She wanted to ask Cole about it, to hear again that he was not going to do it. But she so much feared the answer that she could not bring herself to ask him directly. "So how are you planning to retrieve the Grimoure. I though Leo chucked it into the volcano," she said instead.
Cole nodded, "We'll just ask him which volcano it was and retrieve it."
For a second Nicole even forgot about Cole's proposed marriage. She stared at him with huge eyes, "You kidding, right?"
It was his turn to look surprised, "No," he replied, "why would you think that?"
"Because, even if Leo tells you the truth. And I admit we have ways to persuade him. It's a volcano, for God's sake. The book has long turned to ashes."
Cole sighed exasperated, "Of course not," he said. "Grimoure is an ancient magical book created..."
The young woman rolled her eye, "Yeah, yeah," she interrupted him, "I know, thousands of years ago by the first Council of the Underworld consisting of a demon, a warlock, a vampire, a darklighter and a magician. It was made in the depth of the Underworld from the magical powers of all five Council members."
"Exactly," the half demon exclaimed. "And the depth of the Underworld is what?"
Nicole just stared at him blankly.
"It's hell fire," Cole explained, "which is pretty much the same as the volcano. So nothing happened to Grimoure in there, we just need to get it out."
"You mean we'll have to go into the volcano?" Nicole asked terrified.
"Not we, just me," Cole told her sternly. "You are not invincible, so I'll go alone." She was about to object, but he cut her off, "You know, I am right, Nicole. We sworn to do everything possible to fulfil our destiny and we have to do it."
"But we did not promise to be suicidal," she cried out. "You have no idea if your invincibility is going to be enough. Come on, Cole, you cannot be serious. If you start thinking like that you should marry this warlock woman because it will help fulfil our destiny."
A pained expression pierced blue eyes. Then Cole's face hardened, "I am not marrying a warlock, no matter what you or anybody else says," he growled and headed into his bedroom.
Nicole felt guilty and was about to stop the half demon, but he slammed the door behind him and she turned around. Why was she always apologising to him?
She went into her room. There she paced for a bit and then realised that she was too agitated to sleep. Nicole blurred into the underground garage and went for a long drive along the sea. The warm air ruffled her hair. And she welcomed fresh wind blowing into her face. She was hoping it would clear her head. Why did she mention this proposed marriage and so casually as if she did not care? And during this dinner in the Underworld she did not say anything, she just sat there with a plastered smile on her face. And it was Cole who fought against it. And she did not even try to support him. Was she going to just stand by and not do anything? Just hold on to her walls and keep Cole Turner at a distance? But what else could she do? Tell him how she really felt? For what? To hear back that he did not love her, that he still loved Phoebe. Nicole could not deny that Cole was attracted to her. And he probably honestly believed that him and Phoebe did not have a future but what would happen when Phoebe finally realized that she still loved him and wanted him back?
She ran her hand through her hair. She did not know what to do. She glanced at the car clock. Two o'clock in the morning. She should be going back. Cole would be worried if he discovered that she wasn't home. Nicole cursed, how did it happen that Cole Turner became the first and the last thing on her mind?
When Nicole got back into the penthouse she wanted to switch on the light and twisted the dimmer on the wall but the room remained dark. Nicole cursed. Great, now they did not have electricity. It was 21 century for God's sake. She decided it was time for some magical help. Nicole conjured a small fire ball which gave her enough light to see where she was going. She made a step towards her door but suddenly somebody grabbed her and the next moment Nicole found herself pinned to the floor, her arms trapped above her head, a strong hand pressing hard against her throat.
She struggled for breath, "Cole," she managed to croak.
The grasp on her throat loosened and a well aimed fireball hit the fireplace. The flames lit up the room. Nicole saw the half demon's face just above hers. He looked shocked.
"What the hell are you doing?" she hissed in his face.
"I am sorry," Cole removed his hand from her throat. "I thought you were an intruder. Old reflexes."
"So I see," Nicole muttered. Her initial fear disappeared and was replaced by embarrassment. Through the thin fabric of her dress she could feel the heat of his body. Cole was half dressed in a pair of black trousers and she could see short hairs on his chest. She expected that he would release her from his firm grip but Cole did not move.
"What are you doing here with a fireball in your hand?" he asked suspiciously.
Nicole glared at him, "I went for a drive," she snapped, "and when I got back there was no electricity, so I wanted to light my way by a fireball. I did not really expect you to attack me."
"Oh, excuse me," Cole retorted sarcastically. "But when somebody is wondering around my house at two in the morning with a fireball in one hand, I prefer at first to make sure they can't fry me and than ask questions."
"Nobody can fry you, Cole," Nicole's voice was full of derision, "so you can really afford to ask questions first."
"Not when I have your ass to protect," he replied.
"Ah, so now it's my fault that you almost strangled me?" she cried out, trying to wiggle out of his hands. "Would you mind getting of me?" she finally asked after her attempt failed.
"With pleasure," he quickly got up. Nicole struggled to her feet and glared at Cole. He glared back. "Next time you are in the mood for the middle of the night stroll, be so kind and let me know."
His mocking politeness infuriated her, "You know what, Cole, I don't have to tell you anything. I am an adult, for God's sake."
"Of course, you are," he drawled. "But if you care to remember the whole point of us living in this house together is to ensure your safety and it does not help when you wonder around on your own in the middle of the night."
"So what now I have to ask your permission to go out? Thank you but I am capable of taking care of myself."
"I did not notice you taking care of yourself when you were fighting for breath two minutes ago."
She knew that he was right but this wasn't the time to admit it. "Well, unlike somebody, I first think and then try to strangle my roommate. But thanks, for the pointer next time, when your reflexes take control again, I'll just electrocute you," she snapped.
They both stared at each other.
"Why are you so angry?" He asked. "I am sorry I attacked you but you know better than me that you should not wonder around on your own. It's not safe, especially now with the Halliwells on our case and my mother on a mission."
Nicole tried to compose her anger but in spite of her best efforts her frustration spilled. "Because I want some independence. Because I don't want for my life to completely depend on you. It's all nice and well now. But what will happen when our task is finished or even sooner if you marry this warlock? Are you going to tell your wife that I am your sister and make us live here as a happy family?" She took a deep breath trying to hold back tears and then said quietly in a chocked voice, "I can't do it, Cole. I simply can't."
Cole was surprised and relieved by her outburst. It proved to him that his proposed marriage bothered her. And that made him happy. For a short time this evening he feared she didn't care. He made a few steps towards her and lifted her chin forcing her to look at him. "It won't happen, Nicole," he said softly, "I am not going to marry this warlock."
"But..." she started.
"Not buts," he said pulling her closer. His mouth came down on hers and all protests were lost. He kissed her first very softly but when she responded, the kiss became more passionate, his tongue slipped inside her mouth exploring every corner of it. Her hands flew around his neck, her fingers muffling his hair. Nicole felt as if she was spinning down a vortex and only his strong hands around her waist prevented her from falling down. They broke apart for breath and stared at each other. For a second Cole thought she would change her mind and push him away but instead she lifted her hand and touched his face, her slim fingers caressing his cheek. There was so much warmth in her eyes that Cole lost it. He kissed her again with all the passion he felt and was glad when she responded to him as fiercely. Her hands moved down his back as if studying every muscle. Cole pulled away from her mouth and his lips travelled down her cheek and reached her neck. Nicole moaned as his tongue came in touch with her skin, licking it with just the right amount of pressure. She felt her body ignite and pushed herself closer to him, craving for the feel of his body. One of his hands left her back and reached to caress her thigh just at the edge of the hem. His fingers slowly slipped up and Nicole's body shuddered. "Cole," she moaned. His other hand travelled up her back and reached for the zipper. One swift move and her dress started to fall. The half demon took a step back to admire the result of his action. "You are so beautiful," he whispered in a hoarse voice. His eyes marvelled at the sight of her body now only covered by a small silk bikini and a see through open mantelet. Her face blushed and she gave him a look, which was shy and seductive at the same time. This look made him groan and he picked her up and blurred to the bedroom. It took them a second to get rid of the rest of their clothes and soon they were wrapped in a tight embrace exploring each other's bodies with their hands, tongues and mouths. Cole's mouth encircled one of her nipples and Nicole's body arched, soft moans escaping her mouth. Her hand slipped down his back tracing his spin with her nail. Cole moaned loudly. It was beyond what he could take. He pulled her closer and carefully slipped inside her. She gasped, her lips found his and both were lost in a rhythm of the moment.
Nicole woke up early. Cole was still asleep and that gave her a rare chance to look at him without interruptions. He looked really young even with a distinct morning shadow on his chin. She smiled. She could not believe that they had spent the night together. He stirred slightly and in his sleep pulled her closer. She rested her head on his chest. It felt so great to just lie here, with their bodies rapped around each other. She wished they did not have to go, did not need to get out in the world where the reality ruled. She frowned slightly. What would happen now? Would they both regret this night ever happened? All her worries from yesterday were ready to rush into her head. But she pushed them away. She would not spoil this morning. She had plenty of time to worry when she was on her own. She felt him stir again and lifted her head slightly. Blue eyes stared at her and he smiled.
"Morning," he said in a slightly hoarse voice.
"Morning," she smiled back.
Her smile was so beautiful that he was completely taken with it. It made him feel happy, relaxed. With Nicole he could be himself with all his wickedness, dark secrets, ambitious and possessiveness. He lifted her hand from his chest and kissed the white knuckles. Her smile widened and her eyes sparkled at him. It was amazing that with one look she could express so much. He gently rolled on top of her and kissed her slightly swollen lips. She tasted amazing, sweet and fresh. Her tongue gently slipped into his mouth and her fingers run through his hair. They were both lost in the kiss when the alarm on his night stand went off. Two hands stretched simultaneously in the direction of the sound and the alarm clock went flying into the wall. The ringing stopped and two lovers continued to explore each others mouths.
When they stopped for breath, Nicole whispered, "We'll be late."
"So what?" he murmured his mouth travelling down her neck. Her breathing became louder.
"It's our... first... week," she managed to utter and moaned loudly when his lips encircled one of her nipples taking it prisoner.
"So?" he asked a minute later his lips moving to her other breast.
Nicole struggled to remember what she was saying. "Cole," she moaned and gathered together all sense she had left, "we can't... we have... meetings."
The half demon stopped and Nicole felt a strong disappointment. He pulled away slightly, "Do we really have to go?" he asked with a grimace of a little boy that had been told to go to his room and do his homework.
Nicole tried to contain her laugh, "Oh, no, Cole Turner," she said trying to sound sternly. "I know it always worked on all your teachers, but I am much tougher and not going to fall for this look." She rolled over from under him and pulled the sheet to cover herself. The moment she was out of his arms, a strong feeling of a loss hit her, loss and fear for what would happen next. She busied herself with wrapping the sheet around her body, when she heard his voice.
"Would you go out with me tonight?"
Nicole froze and not believing her ears turned to him.
"What?" she asked her heart faltering.
He moved closer to her so she could see his eyes, "I asked would you go out with me tonight, on a date?" he repeated.
The young woman could no believe it, he was asking her out?! The half demon could see confusion in her eyes and explained. "I had a great night," he said quietly, "I don't want it to end."
Her eyes lit up and she smiled so broadly and happily that it answered all his questions. "Is it a yes?" he questioned her anyway, "or you had such horrible time with me that the whole idea of the repeat makes you speechless." She could see twinkles in his eyes and instead of answering she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately.
"It's a yes," she confirmed pulling away from him.
Please Review. Thanks.