Warning: Spanking as punishment for two adults
Chapter 12
Aftermath of the Ball
Everything was on fire. Corpses of men, women and children covered the ground, thick smoke filled the air. She was standing in the middle of the path, rocks in hand as her heart pounded in her chest. Were her children and sister safe? Did they manage to escape? She didn't know. She hoped to give them enough time. Two Goth warriors ran up to her, weapons ready, their armors stained with blood...of others. They were getting closer and closer, but she stood her ground, throwing stones and yelling insults. They laughed and then beat her. They had fun with her body, her screams echoing through the empty village.
"Thélete na zísete?" (Do you wish to live?) The woman was beautiful, with red lips, her fair skin having the same color of the moon and her eyes two black pearls.
"Thélete na zísete?" The woman asked again. She nodded weakly, for she wanted to find her family with all her heart. The woman smiled and knelt down, ruby lips brushing her neck. And then darkness.
Roxanne woke up with a startle, falling from the bed.
Owen woke up. Talia and Roxanne slept through the day. He had been sleeping on the couch when he heard a thump. He went into his bedroom. Roxanne was on the floor.
"Roxanne?" He approached slowly.
Her eyes were wide with fear and confusion.
"Roxanne, it's me, Owen. You're safe. It was a nightmare. It's over, you're safe." He said gently.
"Owen..." She sobbed, crimson tears falling down her cheeks. She covered her face.
He hugged her. "It's alright."
Owen stroked her hair and soothed her. He felt the blood stain his clothes, but that didn't matter. They stayed like that for a good bit until Roxanne calmed down.
She stopped crying but felt tired. "I...I need to feed..."
"Do you want to go out?" He asked.
"Too weak...bring one of the security guards in my room..." She shook her head.
"Very well." He went to his closet and took off his dirty clothes.
Roxanne wobbled out of Owen's apartment and to her own bedroom. She waited behind the door, not feeling like trying to flirt with the guard. When the man entered the dark room, she jumped on him and bit his neck hard. Her Beast growling in satisfaction as the red liquid poured into her mouth and throat.
Owen watched from the hall. He recoiled as they fell to the ground. Roxanne drank from the guard feverishly, blood pouring onto her face. Is that what it looked like from the outside? He knew she was a vampire, but seeing her feed solidified it. He waited anxiously for her to finish.
Once she was done, the man was fainted. At least he was still breathing. She licked the bite marks and stood up. "I know who I am. I remember everything."
"You were dreaming about your past. Is that why you fell out of bed?" He asked.
Roxanne nodded. "That woman...is my Sire. Lady Irene of Corinth."
"Ah, I see. So, you're from Greece then?" Owen nodded.
"Seems like it...my family...The Goths were attacking us. They ravaged the land. I stayed behind, to give my family time to escape...I had two children and a sister..." She frowned, trying to remember their names. "Androkles...Thaleia...Phaedra..."
Owen closed his eyes, grief washing over him. Puck remembered that time. He had lost people as well. "Those are beautiful names..."
"My husband, Agathon, had died years before. I was alone...I remember the pain of the Goths beating me. Raping me. Then leaving me broken on the ground." She walked to the window, the moonlight illuminating her face and blood-stained mouth. "Then Irene came. And I lived again."
Owen walked up to her and wrapped his arm around her waist. He rested his head on hers. "Roxanne, I met Irene during the ball. She called you Adrasteia."
"It's my real name. I don't like it. I like Roxanne better." She said.
"I like it as well." He agreed.
She sighed. "Oh, Owen, what am I supposed to do now? If she's here, she will want me back with her."
"Before Irene and the other two left, she said you would be contacted soon." He remembered. "I don't understand why she would want you back."
"I've always followed her. She's my mentor, my teacher...I remember falling into torpor one thousand years ago, but don't remember why..." Roxanne pursed her lips.
"Torpor?" Owen puzzled.
"It's like coma. A vampire goes into torpor either for serious injuries or psychological trauma. Sometimes very elder vampires go into torpor from time to time." She explained.
"Strange. We should move the guard before he wakes up. And wash your face." Owen untangled himself from her.
"Are you afraid of me?" Roxanne asked.
"I will admit watching you feed isn't the most pleasant thing, but no. We knew it was part of the deal when you told us. Although, I wish to protect Talia's innocence for as long as possible. She has never seen a vampire feed." He said, looking toward the door.
"I'm usually more delicate than this. I didn't spill one drop of blood when I fed from you." She frowned.
"I'll take your word for it, I don't remember what my clothes looked like that night. Come, let's go back to our daughter." Owen picked up the man.
"I'll have a shower first. I need to calm down..." Roxanne disappeared into the bathroom and closed the door.
Owen watched her close the bathroom door, the shower soon turning on. Puck frowned. Owen and Puck hoped the drama would be over soon so they could have some proper time with her. Owen hefted the man to the employee break room and set him on a chair. Then he went back to his apartment. Talia sat on his bed, rubbing her eyes.
"Where's Mommy?" She asked.
"Mommy's taking a shower in her room. She'll be back soon." Owen told her, sitting on the bed.
"What happened?" Talia looked at him.
"Roxanne fainted after she met her Sire. You went feral and fainted after one of the vampires used their powers." He summarized.
"Oh." She hummed.
During the shower, Roxanne had time to think: she wasn't going to leave her freedom and her own life just to follow her Sire around, but she needed to be careful: Irene may seem calm and composed, but she was still a Brujah. And Sires didn't take well the insolence of infants. She could've destroyed her. No, she wasn't going to be scared of her. If she had to fight for her freedom, then so be it.
Roxanne entered Owen's apartment after the shower, wearing a long nightgown. They heard the door open and Roxanne walked in. Talia got out of bed and hugged her.
Roxanne hugged Talia and sighed wistfully. "I made up my mind. I will stay, no matter what Irene wants from me."
"Good." Owen said firmly.
"What?" Talia looked up.
"The woman you saw at the ball last night is my Sire. The one who made me a vampire."
"And she could make you leave?" She frowned.
"A Sire has right of life and death on their own infant. Unless they free them. I'll need to convince Irene to free me." Roxanne nuzzled Talia's head. "And if I'll have to fight, so be it."
"More fighting?" Her face soured.
"Life is a constant fight, my dear. I learned that since I was very young." She said.
"Why can't people leave us alone?" Talia pouted.
"Everything will be fine. Irene is wise, she wouldn't want a fight." Roxanne tried to soothe her.
"I'll bite her if she does." Talia growled.
"Talia, don't pick fights." Owen told her.
"Now listen to me very closely, Talia. You are forbidden from getting close to Irene or any other vampire. It's way too dangerous, they could manipulate you, or worse. Irene is ancient...and has more power than you think." Roxanne said solemnly.
"Like what?" She asked immediately before pausing. "You said vampires are everywhere."
"They blend into human society very easily. Luckily you can smell their scent of death. Do not get close to them, run or hide instead." Roxanne warned.
"That won't always work." She pointed out.
"Talia, you don't have enough control over your powers. Promise us you won't get close to any vampires." Owen said with no room argument.
"I promise not to get close to any strange vampires or hide when possible." She intoned.
Roxanne felt the words weave into her bones and cinch together. There was a serious bond between all of them and Roxanne knew she and Owen held the power of it.
"Thank you. Now...I think we need to have a talk with Fox and Xanatos. Especially with Xanatos." She growled. "Talia, please stay here."
"But I'm hungry." Talia whined.
"Talia, there's food in the fridge. You may watch TV afterwards." Owen said exasperated.
Roxanne didn't waste any more time and marched to the living room.
"Be good, Talia. I will come back for you." Owen followed Roxanne. They found the couple in the lounge room.
David and Fox turned towards them. "Good evening you two. How do you feel Roxanne?"
"I would feel much better if you hadn't invited Bennet to the Goddamn ball!" She hissed, taking him by the collar and slamming him to the wall. "What the fuck is wrong with you, you idiot?!"
"Roxanne, stop!" Owen shouted.
"What's going on?" Fox asked, extremely worried.
Xanatos didn't react. "He asked me of a small favor. He just wanted to meet you."
"So you always knew what I am, didn't you?"
"Yes." He confirmed.
Roxanne laughed. "Only a fool like you would start making business with a Ventrue. He doesn't consider you a partner. Only a pawn." Roxanne growled and let him fall on the floor. "And now you ruined my life."
Owen felt a little hurt that Xanatos asked him to spy on Roxanne when he had always known the truth.
"How did David ruin your life?" Fox asked, checking on him.
"Because now I will have to collaborate with the Camarilla, something I really wanted to avoid. I took a position, I'm no longer considered neutral." She narrowed her eyes. "And all because this fool let the serpent get in. Bennet would've never known where I was if it wasn't for you. But now he does, and if I don't play nice, he could decide to make me pay the price...on all of you." Roxanne snarled. "Every vampire will know that I live here and that you are involved with me."
"Not if you collaborate with Maxwell." He said.
"It will be a cold day in hell when I will trust a Ventrue!" She roared, her fangs coming out as she punched the coffee table, breaking it in half.
"Roxanne, please, calm down. Talia will hear you." Owen pleaded.
The woman took a few moments to collect herself. She looked at Owen. Then back at the other two. "From now on, this will be my haven. My dominion. No vampire will be allowed in here without my permission, so don't you dare to invite Bennet here again without telling me. I'm serious about this."
Xanatos nodded. "I didn't know that you felt such hate for him."
"Don't trust him. Ventrue always want to command, to be on top. He will never see you on his level, David, so watch out." Roxanne warned.
"Dominion? Vampires?" Fox questioned.
"We should move somewhere for this discussion." Owen suggested.
"Here will be just fine. Time to pull off the mask." Roxanne walked towards Fox. "Touch my neck and tell me what you feel."
Fox got up and placed her fingers on Roxanne's neck. Her skin was cold and as the minutes passed, Fox didn't feel any heartbeat. "You don't have a pulse. And your skin is cold."
"Excellent observation. That's because I'm dead. I'm a vampire." Roxanne deadpanned.
Fox pulled her hand back. Her brow creased as she turned to her future husband. Her voice was steely. "David, why did you knowingly hire a vampire to watch our daughter?"
"At first I had no idea. But after observing her habits and after Maxwell told me he wanted to talk to her, I understood. I thought she could be useful to me, and my expectations were not disappointed." He smirked. "You saved Fox's life, you protect Talia and you got close to Owen. You have no choice but to stay."
"You little-" She seethed.
"Having a vampire around can be extremely useful when one has lots of enemies. Like me." Xanatos rubbed his chin. "Especially one so strong like yourself."
"Sir, don't dig yourself any deeper. We still have much to talk about." Owen said.
"For example?" He looked at Owen.
"Your behavior towards Talia. You ignored her and made your relationship worse." He said.
"Owen, we already talked about this: I'm a business man and have many duties, I don't always have time for myself, let alone others. Every little bit of free time I have, I spend it with Talia, but that can't always be." Xanatos told him.
"That's a lie, you haven't. I guess I'm going to have to spell it out for you then. You. Are. Neglectful. Every time, Talia would run away, you would punish her. There would be a stretch of calm before the cycle started all over again. Both of you got frustrated with each other and it got worse the longer it went on. Talia brushed off your rejections because she thought her parents were still alive. I take full responsibility for that; I shouldn't have waited for her to bond with you. Do you remember the library?" Owen asked him.
"I never asked to become a father. You literally dropped her in here and said 'here, take care of her'! Maybe if you actually gave me the choice in the first place, it would've been better!" Xanatos shouted.
"DO you remember what happened in the library?" Owen repeated.
"Yes. And?" He asked thinly.
"Was she scared?" He asked.
"I don't- can't you just get to the point?" Xanatos' eyebrows knitted in frustration.
"That's the most positive attention you gave her in over a year! An afternoon! You gave her affection when she craved it the most. Talia doesn't like being yelled at and scolded. Furthermore, that's exactly what her parents did after they fought. They would go check on her and try to make it up to her." Owen fumed.
"I don't recall yelling at her at all. Scolding her? Yes, whenever she misbehaved, but you're treating me like some kind of drunk, abusive father who regularly beats his kid. Don't you think you're exaggerating?" He asked.
He took a breath and looked away from him. "David, neglect is a type of abuse. As I mentioned before, you got more frustrated with her as time went on and you weren't as subtle as you think you were. She picked up on that and avoided you. When Talia realized her parents dead, it made her accept that the adoption was legitimate. You were her father and she wanted to make things better."
"Okay, that's enough." Roxanne put herself between them. "I just remembered my past, found out that my Sire is in New York and made a deal with that son of a bitch Bennet. It's late, we're tired, and we still have to accept the fact that Talia has two sets of parents now. We'll need to cooperate if we really care about her well-being. There's a lot of tension going on, and I don't know about you, but I don't need this."
Owen sighed heavily. "We will continue this later."
"So, what are we going to do now?" Fox asked.
"For one, know each other better. How are we supposed to take care of a kid together, if we barely know anything about the other? Not right now, but step by step, a small chat every evening." Roxanne started.
"I suppose that could work." Fox hummed.
"Second, let's try to spend time with Talia more often. If someone is busy, someone else can spend time with her. We'll have to organize ourselves. Third...parenthood isn't easy. Like, at all. And no one should feel forced to be a parent if they don't feel like it." She said.
"Finally, someone making some sense. Thank you." Xanatos said standing up and going towards the door.
"Still...Talia is not a ragdoll. Don't play constantly with her feelings, David. And before giving up on fatherhood, think about it." He stopped for a few moments, before walking away.
Roxanne turned towards Owen, crossing her arms. "Did you really think it would be a good idea to drop a kid on someone who clearly doesn't like parenting? Who doesn't feel comfortable with being a father? I expected better from you."
"It's too late to change things now." Owen looked away, ashamed. He couldn't reveal the real reason he brought her. Not yet.
"Then try not to be so harsh on David. You made mistakes as well, as I did. In fact, the only one who never made mistakes with Talia, is Fox." Roxanne pointed out.
"I don't think that counts for much since I was in jail. I don't know why David thought we just get along after meeting." She shrugged.
"You're important to him. He's trying to balance everything, he doesn't want to give up. He seems the type that prefers to do everything on his own...or maybe he's used to be that way." She thought.
"We're going to have nip that in the bud." Fox agreed.
"We forgot about Talia. Never mind, we'll get to it later." Owen rubbed the bridge of his nose. "I'll go tell her to go to bed."
"Good idea. Fox, go stay with David, but don't force him to talk if he doesn't feel like it." Roxanne added.
"Alright." She left.
"I didn't realize how angry I would become. We didn't get anything done." Owen said as he left.
Talia was completely oblivious to the turmoil. She took a bite of cookie when he walked in. He looked tired and upset.
"Change of plans, Talia. It's bedtime now." He told her.
"Ok?" She got up.
"I will tuck you in." He said.
They went to Talia's room. Owen let her laid in bed then he pulled the covers over her. Talia wasn't really sleepy, but Owen looked like he needed something. He chose a book from her shelf and sat on her bed. Talia listened to his steady voice. She fell asleep soon afterward.
The next night the adults met in the living room once more; they agreed to let Talia go visit the clan, and spend the night at Maza's so they could talk more freely. As they sat on the couch and armchairs, tension could be felt in the air; Xanatos was never one to hold a grudge, but that didn't mean that Owen's words didn't hurt. He was supposed to be loyal to him, to be on his side.
"Alright. Now that we're alone, we can try and discuss things like civilized people. Talking will help us move over past mistakes and never bring them up again." Roxanne said, as she sat on an armchair.
"Right." Owen nodded. He decided to let someone else go first this time.
"I suggest that each of us starts saying what worries him or her. And until that person is done, the others won't interrupt. I'll start." Roxanne cleared her throat.
"I'm worried that my nature will take over someday, and I will either hurt one of you or, God forbid, Talia. I'm worried about what Irene wants from me, about collaborating with the Camarilla and fighting the Sabbat soon. In case I get out of control, fire is the solution. That or a stake through my heart, it will paralyze me as long as it stays inside me." She said matter-of-factly. "I hope you appreciate the fact that I just revealed two of my weaknesses just so you know what to do with me in case I go crazy."
"What's the Sabbat and Camarilla?" Fox asked.
"Two sects that have been fighting for centuries. Different views, different politics." She shrugged.
"Talia caught the Sabbat's attention and they will try to hurt her to get to Roxanne." Owen explained.
"Let's not focus on that right now. I don't have anything else to add, so if someone else wants to talk..." She trailed off.
"I will go next. I'm worried I made things worse. Because of my selfishness and cowardly behavior. I'm sorry I used you, David, as a scapegoat. I can't seem to stop making bad mistakes when it comes to Talia..." Owen said.
Xanatos sighed. "What's done is done. Talia is here now, and she chose us as her new family. I still don't understand why she would want me as a father, but...I'm trying the best I can. I don't have any experience with children, and I'm worried that I might behave like my own father. I'm already behaving like him..." He lowered his gaze.
"I'm slightly worried about everyone here." Fox frowned.
"About what exactly?" Roxanne asked.
"I was raised in a troubled home and this whole situation reminds me too much of that. These worries are serious. I'm new here. Talia doesn't know me well and seems to not have any friends outside the gargoyles. She's depending on us." Fox continued.
"Damn...you're right. No friends of her age." She frowned.
"They're all back in Oregon." Owen sighed, another mistake to add to the pile.
"Oregon..." Roxanne rubbed her neck before turning to Fox. "How long until your wedding?"
"We were planning on the 6th." She answered.
"What if...what if after that we went to Oregon? For a couple of weeks, so that Talia could see her friends. I think she would like it." Xanatos suggested.
"Talia's birthday is at the end of the month. The 23rd." Owen added.
"Perfect. I bet she's going to love it." Roxanne grinned
"I could book our rooms at a luxury hotel." David added.
"I'll get Talia to make a birthday list." Owen told them. "I gave her a card last year and Detective Maza brought her pizza."
"Sad." Roxanne said, making a face. "This year she will have a great birthday."
"I hope so, the poor dear needs it." Fox looked at David.
He nodded. "Should we choose a theme for the party?"
"If you want to, sir. Talia will be happy to get a cake." Owen told him.
"Mh...knowing her, maybe a more casual party would be better...I could pay for her favorite band to come and play at the party. Doesn't she like rock?" Xanatos asked.
"Yes." Owen nodded.
"Then let's find out her favorite band or singer. I will pay as much as needed, money is never a problem." He told them.
"Does anyone know who her friends are? We need to know where they live, so we can send them invitations." Roxanne stated.
"I will take care of it." Owen told them. "We have to tell them she's alive first."
"Why?" Fox turned to look at him.
"Wait, they don't know?" Roxie gave a look at Owen.
"We got caught up in planning Talia's birthday party. Fox, I am Puck and Talia is my daughter. I knew since she was a baby. She tried to kill herself and I intervened. The wounds were bad; I spent months trying to heal her. Then I brought her to New York. Talia was homeless for a few months until the castle was built. Puck kept an eye on her." He told her.
Silence filled the room, Fox blinking and looking at Owen like he was crazy. "...is this your attempt at joking? I mean, not bad for a beginner, but you don't need to invent crazy stories to make people laugh." She chuckled.
He turned into Puck. "I'm not joking, Fox."
Fox stared at him in shock. "I- David, did you know this?"
David nodded. "Puck revealed himself to me years-"
"SHE WAS HOMELESS?" Roxanne had been silently looking at Owen in shock, before finally reacting. "WHAT THE FUCK?! ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT YOU LET HER ROAM AROUND NEW YORK CITY FOR MONTHS? LET HER LIVE IN THE STREETS?!"
"I told you the castle wasn't done. I kept her safe." Puck shrank into his chair.
"THAT'S YOUR EXCUSE?" She roared.
"Roxanne, calm down-" Xanatos stood up.
"Don't tell me to calm down, Xanatos! I'm about to kick his fairy ass!" She roared, pulling up her sleeves.
David put himself between them. "What happened to discuss things out like civilized people?"
"That was BEFORE finding out that Talia was homeless for months! In New York no less!" Roxanne shouted indignantly.
"I needed the time to convince David to adopt her." Puck got ready to defend himself. Xanatos wasn't going to be able to stop Roxanne.
"You could've just told me that the girl was homeless and needed help. I'm not a monster, Puck." Xanatos scolded, before sighing. "I guess fairies aren't used to think about these kind of things..."
Roxanne was glaring at Puck with her arms crossed; she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "The past is the past. What counts is that we'll be able to give Talia a good life from now on."
"Roxanne, do you remember how Talia acted on Halloween? Do you have any insight on that?" Puck asked.
"On Halloween? What do you mean?" Roxanne questioned.
"Why she hid that she wasn't feeling well." He clarified.
"Wasn't it because of the medicines?" She raised an eyebrow.
"Not entirely. We put her on them to stop mood swings, but I suspect that we caught her in a downward swing and it made things worse. However, the medicine only stops the chemicals in body, not her feelings. Did she say anything odd?" Puck asked.
"She...felt guilty about making things all about her again. And she thought that we were sick of it." Roxanne frowned.
"When is Talia coming home? We need to straighten this out." Fox asked.
"She'll sleep at Maza's tonight. Elisa will take her back here in the morning." David said, biting his lower lip. "This is all my fault...I was the one that made her feel unwanted, like her presence was annoying. My frustration only made her feel guilty."
"Don't dwell on it, either of you. Fox, it wasn't your fault you didn't notice anything. But what's important is that you're going to change it. Give her more time and affection. I'm not saying that you have to dote on her, just be consistent with it. No more month long stretches of nothing." Puck faced the couple. Xanatos held Fox's hand while wrapping an arm around her.
Roxanne let herself fall on the armchair. "This whole conversation left me exhausted. If I didn't know it was impossible, I would say I got a headache."
"Let's get some rest." Puck turned back into Owen.
"He's right." Fox agreed, standing up.
They split up, David and Fox to their bedroom and Roxanne went with Owen to his apartment. "All I want to do now, is lay in bed with you."
"Good, I want that too." He undressed to his boxers and took off his glasses. She took off her clothes, remaining in her black slip and bra before laying next to him under the covers.
"You know...it's been a while since we..." Roxanne smirked, rubbing her hand up and down Owen's thigh. "Talia's away, we're all alone in this nice apartment..."
Owen cupped her face, laying on his side and kissed her on the lips. "Roxie, you read my mind."
She purred and took off her bra.
The next morning, Xanatos and Owen were waiting for Talia and Elisa. She had called half an hour ago and would be there soon.
"Mister Xanatos? I know I haven't been upholding our deal, but I do want to serve you." Owen started.
"Good to know. Because there is something I need to tell you." Xanatos gave him a white letter; inside there were a series of instructions and the calligraphy was the same David used. "I received it today. From myself." He smirked.
"What does it say?" Owen read it.
"It says that if I want to prove to my father that I'm a self made man, I will need the Phoenix gate. One half is in possession of Goliath and the other of Demona. Ironic, isn't it? I'll need to find an excuse to bring them here at the same time while my father is also here...the wedding would be a perfect occasion. I bet Demona would love to go back in time and change the past...Goliath of course would want to stop her, and he's too soft to leave us behind. It's brilliant, Owen, it will leave my old man speechless." David's eyes were shining in anticipation.
Owen hummed. "Shall I call Demona then?"
"Yes, tell her that she could be Fox's best maid and give her the ring. I'll do the same with Goliath." Xanatos sighed wistfully. "My father has always accused me of not having gained any of my fortune on my own, that if it wasn't for that ancient coin, I would've never become who I am today. I'll prove him wrong, for it was me who sent that coin to myself."
"Sir, maybe you should temper your expectations. He sounds like a prickly man." Owen said after a minute, hesitantly.
"Oh, he is, but it's impossible that he doesn't have a positive reaction after this." He hummed taking out of his inner jacket pocket a small photo of a beautiful woman: she and David shared the same eyes, hair and almond skin tone. Xanatos's eyes became sad.
"I'll make him proud, mom." He whispered.
Owen let the man have his moment. Clearly, he needed his father's approval. Briefly, the blond was reminded of Talia's need for his approval. Owen hoped it didn't end badly for him. The elevator dinged. Elisa and Talia walked out. She set her bags down.
"Oh, hi." Talia said.
"Hello my dear, how was your night out?" David said as he quickly put the picture back in the pocket.
"It was fun." Talia looked at him, surprised he was there.
"Talia, you go put your bags away. I'll still be here when you get back." Elisa told her.
"Ok." She shrugged, leaving.
"Detective?" Owen asked.
"What's this about?" Xanatos asked.
"I saw Talia changing and there were scars on her upper arms. They looked like claw marks. She said they were an accident. I'm giving you one chance to explain." Elisa crossed her arms.
"Elisa, Talia's powers are unpredictable. You saw her with the gargoyles. She must have hurt herself on accident." Owen told her.
David frowned. "Are you sure it was an accident?"
"What do you mean?" Owen turned to him.
"Before the antidepressants, Talia was...well, depressed. Many teenagers hurt themselves while being depressed...yesterday we talked about Talia feeling guilty...I'm worried." He drew his lips in a thin line.
"Talia feels guilty?" Elisa asked.
"No, you're wrong. This is not happening again." Owen shook his head in denial.
"What do you mean again?" Xanatos narrowed his eyes. "Detective, Talia feels guilty because she thinks she's not wanted here, that she's a burden, but it's not like that at all."
"I should have called Child Services on you." Elisa glared at them.
"No, give us a chance to fix things." Owen couldn't keep the desperation out of his voice.
"Detective...Elisa..." David placed one hand on her shoulder. "Please. It's all very complicated, but we want what's best for Talia. All her psychological issues and traumas were there long before she came here. She has no one else. Unless you think that any other family could accept a magical, feral teenager into their home...she could be taken away and experimented on. And she cannot stay with the clan, they turn into stone by daylight and your job isn't exactly...safe."
Elisa frowned deeply. She knew what he said was true, but it still rubbed her wrong. She brushed his hand off. "Don't think I won't watch you like a hawk."
"That's exactly what I'm counting on." He smiled. "It's good to know that Talia has one more person that cares about her."
Elisa narrowed her eyes, distrusting his tone. Talia came back. She hugged Owen.
"Hello, Talia." He smiled and stroked her hair.
"Thank you for keeping Talia company, detective. See you soon." Xanatos said cheerfully, waving his hand.
"Bye, Elisa." Talia waved at her.
"You have my number, Talia. Call anytime." Elisa stepped into the watched the elevator doors close before approaching Talia.
"Did you have fun, sweetheart?" He was trying to be more gentle with her.
"Yeah, Poppa. We watched a movie and ate popcorn. Goliath took me gliding. Then Elisa took me to her apartment." She faced him.
"Sounds great. Is there anything you would like to do all together today? We could go to Central Park and...uh...feed the ducks?" He was completely lost about what families did on their outings. His father never took him anywhere.
"I like ducks." She nodded.
"Shall I go get Fox?" Owen asked.
"Yes Owen, thank you. Talia, honey, you better put on a warmer coat, today is quite cold outside." He took her by the hand and walked into the elevator.
"Where are we going?" Talia asked. She was pleased that he was being nice. The nicknames would take some getting used to.
"To your room so you can dress up with warmer clothes." He said.
"Ok." She said. Her hand was getting sweaty so she untangled it from his. "Poppa, can we go to Chinatown too?"
"Of course. Is there something you would like to buy there?" Xanatos nodded.
"Dim sum. And some snacks." She said.
"Alright, then. Would you like to have lunch in a Chinese restaurant?" He asked.
"Yeah." She said. The elevator opened and they walked to her room. She went to her closet and picked out another jacket. Xanatos came into her room.
"I'll make a reservation for four people at the Blue Willow. Me and Fox went there once, during one of our first dates, the food and hospitality are excellent." He said taking out his portable phone.
"Ok." Talia tried to stuff the hanger back in. It knocked something over and her first aid kit fell onto the floor. David knelt down.
"Talia...why do you have a first aid kit in your room?" He asked in a hushed tone.
"No reason. Let's be cool about this." Talia looked away nervously.
"Oh Talia..." David sighed. "So it wasn't an accident."
"Elisa..." Talia said breathlessly.
Xanatos sat on the bed, patting the spot next to him.
Talia reluctantly sat on the bed. "Can't we just forget about this? Today was going to be good."
"It will still be good, but we need to talk about this." He gently took her by her armpits and sat her in his lap, hugging her. "Why did you hurt yourself like that, Tai?"
"I dunno. I was overwhelmed and I guess my fingers turned into claws." She said softly.
"You were overwhelmed because of our fight last time, right?..." David held her close. "I'm so, so sorry, darling. I haven't been a great father, I know that."
"Poppa, why did you put me the medicine?" Talia clung to him, not wanting to see his face.
"Me and your daddy thought it would help you keep your emotions under control. We were afraid your depression was taking over, there's no shame in using medicines to help yourself." He explained.
"Oh. You weren't mad at me for ruining your proposal with my outburst?" Talia asked.
"What? No, honey, of course not. I wasn't mad, I was...frustrated. Not at you, at the situation. I was so happy to propose to Fox, that I completely ignored how you felt about it." He nuzzled her hair, cradling her a little. "Oh, my poor, sweet, Tai..."
Talia hugged him. They didn't talk for a bit. She slowly felt the nerves fade and she braved a look at him. "I was scared you and Fox were going to fight because of me. I haven't been very good."
"We would never fight because of you." He smiled, placing his forehead on hers.
"Mommy said the same thing. I... want to fix our relationship, but I get scared. It was hard to talk to you for a long time." She told him. "Poppa, can I have a kiss?"
David chuckled and kissed her hair several times, his beard scratching slightly.
Talia giggled. "That tickles."
"Oh? You're ticklish, mh?" He smirked, tickling her sides. "How about now?"
"Poppa!" She laughed.
"The tickle monster got ya!" He kept tickling her until they heard someone clearing their throat at the door.
Talia squirmed and tried to stifle her laughter. "Hi, Daddy."
"Did Poppa get distracted?" Owen asked.
Xanatos's eyes widened and his face became red.
Talia wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled him. "It's just Daddy, Poppa. Don't worry."
"I know, it's just, uh...I'm not used to behave like this..." He mumbled.
"I think it's a good look on you. Let Talia up then we'll go to the park." Owen smiled at him.
"I love you, Poppa." She kissed his cheek before getting up and grabbing her jacket.
David smiled and stood up. "Love you too, honey."
They went back to the elevator where Fox was waiting.
"Why are your faces so red?" She asked.
"The tickle monster got me then Daddy came in." Talia told her.
"Yes, well, why don't we go downstairs? We'll have lunch at the Blue Willow today." He said entering the elevator with the others.
"Blue Willow? Did you make reservations?" Owen asked.
"I was about to, but me and Talia had a little talk." Once they were in the lobby, Xanatos called the restaurant. Talia was glad he didn't go into detail. They waited until he was done then went to the car.
Central Park was quiet at that time of the day. There were just a few people walking by, joggers, dog owners and grandparents with their grandchildren. Although it was November, it was sunny, but the air was becoming more and more chilly. Fox was holding David's elbow as he held Talia's hand.
"Are you excited, Talia?" Owen carried a bag of bread for her to feed the ducks.
"Yeah, I haven't feed ducks in awhile." She smiled.
"Would you like a nice boat ride over the lake too?" Xanatos asked. "I've spent half of my life on a row boat, I still know how to use one."
"Really? We can go on a boat ride too?" Talia grinned.
"Right after you feed the ducks. Look, they're starting to gather near the pond bank." He said pointed at a group of ducks, quacking excitedly and flapping their wings to draw the attention. Talia tugged on his hand, trying to get there faster.
"Talia, wait." Owen said.
"You know that reminds me of our third date? You took me out and we had a romantic lunch and boat ride on the lake." Fox sighed wistfully.
"You were wearing a lovely, short dress that day. I was so lovestruck, that I almost tripped and made the bouquet fall on the ground." He chuckled, kissing the woman's temple.
Talia blanched. They got to a bench by the waterfront and Owen gave Talia a piece of bread. She tore off a bit and threw it on the ground. The ducks gathered at her feet. Talia smiled happily, her magic reflecting that. The sweet lilac and apple spice soothed Owen.
David and Fox remained next to the bench, glad to see Talia happy. Owen grabbed a piece of bread and began feeding the ducks as well. A mother duck and her babies swam by.
"Haha, you'll get some more soon." Talia laughed and quaked at the ducks. It was a perfect imitation.
"Talia, shh." Owen whispered.
"Back in Bar Harbor I used to feed lots of water birds every afternoon. Our house was right in front of the lake, outside of the town." Xanatos watched the birds.
"I've never heard this before." Fox said.
"I...don't like to talk about my birthplace much." He said with finality.
"Do you want to feed the ducks?" Talia asked.
David smiled and nodded, taking a piece of bread from Owen and crumbling it into small pieces. "By the way Talia, my father will be at the wedding. I'm warning you, he doesn't have much sense of humor, he's a strictly pragmatic man and a bit gruff. But I'm sure he's going to like you."
"Why?" She threw a handful of crumbs towards the back.
"You like nature and simple things in life, just like him. Before leaving for college we had a terrible fight...I don't think he's ever been proud of me, but I have a plan to solve this. I'm sure he'll be impressed." He puffed his chest.
"I hope it works out." Talia said.
They fed the ducks for some more time before going to the lake and rent a boat. David started instructing Talia on how to row.
"This is hard." Talia complained.
"You'll get better at it, Sweetpea." Fox encouraged.
"You can do it Tai, watch how I do it." Xanatos sat next to her in the middle of the boat and took one of the oars. "Let's do it together."
"Ok." She said.
They slowly got out the middle of the lake. He had to be mindful of their differing sizes, she took longer to make a full stroke. The view was beautiful. The water was a pretty blue green and they saw the trees beyond the lake.
"That's it, you're doing great, sweetie." He smiled.
"Thanks, Poppa." Talia basked in his praise.
"Look, some swans are coming toward us." Fox pointed.
"Careful, swans may look beautiful but they're very territorial and aggressive. Let's row in another direction." David said. They rowed left, but swans kept casually following them.
"Perhaps we should go back to shore." Owen frowned.
"It's strange that they're following us...and yes, let's go back. It's almost time for lunch anyway." He checked his watch.
"Yay, food." Talia cheered. The swans trumpeted and flapping their wings excitedly.
David blinked. "Talia, are those swans under the influence of your magic?"
"Huh?" She tilted her head.
"I'm afraid this is something out of her control. I will explain more in the car." Owen told him.
They rowed back to the rent cabin; Xanatos paid for the boat and then joined the others in the car. "Alright, you can explain now Owen."
"Talia's birth mother was a distance descendant of a Southeast Asian earth goddess. Lady Earth. When I saved Talia, it woke up that bloodline. Most of her powers are benign, but she hates demons. Along with Talia's gargoyle instincts, it makes her go feral. I am working on a charm to calm them down, but the last ingredients won't be here until after your wedding." He explained.
"And what would that be?" David asked.
"The charm? I ordered some herbs we didn't have here." Owen asked, confused.
"Hey, wait. Can we go back to the earth god thing?" Talia furrowed her brow.
"Talia, you mostly have power over the earth and making the land and plants fertile. Animals want to be near you." He faced her. "I was going to tell you all tonight after Roxanne woke up."
"She's the descendant of a goddess...Owen, why didn't you tell us sooner?" Xanatos huffed, his patience was running out. "You keep holding secrets from us. I know that Puck is playful, for all fairies are, but you need to stop this. We deserve to know everything regarding Talia. Especially her."
"That's it. I have no more secrets about Talia. I'll keep you up to date on her powers as soon as I know. I guess I thought since Lady Earth's powers were benign, they weren't important. I was too focused on the feral problem." Owen sighed.
"David, we'll deal with Owen's lying later, preferably without little eyes near." Fox jerked her head to Talia.
"Oh trust me: tonight we'll certainly deal with all of Puck's mistakes and lying." He snorted.
Owen gulped. They meant business.
The family arrived at the restaurant and entered; a waitress showed them their table and gave them the menus.
"Choose anything you wish, my dear." Xanatos told Talia.
Talia looked over the menu. "I want wonton soup and garlic sauce chicken. Oh, and steamed dumplings."
Fox chose the bamboo pork and Owen decided on seafood fried rice. David ordered a bowl of chow mein and the sweet and sour chicken. They were given some water while they waited for their lunch.
"Talia, your birthday is coming up soon. We want to throw you a party." Owen said.
"Really?" She put down her glass.
"Yes, you'll have to tell daddy a list of friends you want to invite and their addresses, so we can send them the invitations." Xanatos smiled.
"Adriana Cason, Justin B., Sierra, um... I'll think of more. I think Laura moved away." Talia thought.
"Those are all your school friends?" Owen confirmed.
"Yeah." She nodded.
"Alright then. All we need to do is call a hotel, reserve 3 bedrooms, and pay for their events venue so we can organize your party."
"Why do we need a venue?" Talia asked.
"Because we're going to Oregon for your birthday, silly." David smirked.
Talia wiggled in her seat, excited. She wanted to hug him. "Thanks, Poppa."
"Isn't that also Thanksgiving this year?" Fox asked.
"Then we'll also celebrate thanksgiving. I have to admit, I haven't celebrated it since I was little."
"This is great. I get to see my friends and I don't have beg for their Thanksgiving leftovers." Talia said.
"Talia, why did you say that?" Owen sighed.
"It's true." She told him.
"You don't have to worry about food any longer." Fox reassured her.
"I promise you that you will never be hungry again." David said caressing her hair gently.
Talia's magic seeped into David's skin and flared a moment before settling down. For a brief second, he could smell her magic again. It was hopeful and yearning. He smiled, feeling happy and warm inside.
"Here are your steamed dumplings. The rest of your food will be here shortly." The waitress put a plate on the table. Talia took two and started eating. There were four left.
"Go on honey, you can have mine." Xanatos chuckled.
"Don't forget you still have still have soup and chicken coming." Owen reminded her, taking one.
"Ok." Talia nodded.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were trying to spoil her." Fox smiled at Xanatos.
"Nonsense, I just want to make sure she eats enough. And maybe spoil her a little." Xanatos mirrored her.
Fox chuckled at that. They ate and chatted until the food came. Talia was content and happy. She did ask for a bite of everyone's food though.
After lunch, Xanatos paid the bill and they got out of the restaurant. "Would you like some nice dessert before going home? We could stop by a pastry shop."
"Pastry?" Talia asked.
"Yeah, or anything else you would like." He said.
"Doughnut." Talia said.
"Then doughnut it is." They reached the car and stopped at a patisserie on the Fifth Avenue, not far from the Eyrie Building. The four of them went in, a sweet, fragrant smell welcoming them.
They hung back as Talia looked at all the doughnuts. She whined. Fox started at her in surprise.
"What's wrong, Tai?" David asked, whispering.
"I dunno what I want." Talia frowned.
Xanatos was about to tell her to take all the doughnuts she wanted, but Owen glared at him severely. "You can only have two. Choose the ones you want, and next time you'll try something different. The shop isn't going anywhere."
Talia pouted, making doe eyes at him. He refused to budge.
"I guess an apple fritter and double chocolate doughnut." She said after a bit.
"Our daughter is a little menace." Fox laughed.
"Nice try, though." David chuckled and bought the doughnuts for her. They walked back to the car and went home.
Talia was getting sleepy and yawned.
"Are you tired?" David asked as they entered the castle's hall.
"Little bit." She rubbed her eye. Owen took the bag of doughnuts.
"Why don't you go have a nap?"
"Will you hug me?" Talia asked.
"My, aren't you cuddly today?" He chuckled, hugging her.
"Poppa, will you and Fox cuddle me? Daddy too?" She asked shyly.
"Well...alright. Let's go into the living room, there's enough space on the couch. We could watch some television, relax a bit." David told her.
They went to the living room. It took a bit of figuring out, but they finally got comfy. Fox turned on the TV to an animal documentary.
Fox was next to David, who was in the middle, then there was Talia and next to her Owen. Xanatos patted Talia's back gently, to help her fall asleep. Talia yawned again. Fox rubbed her hand on Talia's arm. She accepted the touch. Her magic filled the air.
"That's a nice scent." Fox mumbled.
A few minutes later, Talia was deep asleep. David cuddled closer to his future wife, kissing her. "I love you. I feel...happy."
"Me too, David." She petted his hair.
Owen had gotten a face full of Talia's sleepy scent. The lilac drew his nose in and the apple spice and earth soon followed, soothing, calm. He started to nod off.
"Are you sleepy too, Owen?" Xanatos asked.
"I'm fine, sir." He said as he nuzzled Talia, his eyes half closed.
"You better rest now, because you're going to have a long night." Xanatos said. Fear struck Owen's heart. He laid there and watched the documentary.
Hours passed. Xanatos asked Roxanne and Fox if they could take Talia out, and the vampire suggested they could go back to the arcade.
"Thank you. Me and Owen are going to have a long talk." He said clearing his throat.
Roxanne frowned. "You want to..."
"Punish him, yes. So he won't feel guilty anymore and we can move along with our life; he will be forgiven and we'll feel satisfied that he got what he deserved. He needs that." They turned towards Owen. "But only if he accepts it."
"I... deserve it. I'm just not looking forward to it." He looked away from them.
Roxanne smiled cupping his face and kissing him. "You're so brave to take responsibility like that...and don't think that you're the only one who's going to get it." She turned towards Xanatos with a severe look on her face.
He blushed, eyes wide and mouth open. "What? Me? But-"
"You did just as many mistakes as Owen. So I think it's only fair that you get the same treatment; you know you deserve it too." She said crossing her arms.
David took a deep breath and sighed. "You're right."
"Just think that after all of this, you two will be forgiven by us and will be able to forgive yourselves. Which is important." Roxanne reminded.
"Shall we move somewhere else?" Owen asked.
"Let's go to your apartment." Xanatos said, standing up.
"I'll go join Fox and Talia downstairs. We'll be away for a couple of hours, it should give you two enough time to...settle things." She waved goodbye and entered the elevator.
Owen watched her leave before following Xanatos to his apartment. He unlocked the door, letting the other man go in first. He shut the door behind him. David walked to the blond's bedroom and into his private bathroom. He got out with a wooden hairbrush in his hand.
"Go put on your pajamas, brush your teeth, do what you have to do before bed...because after this you're going straight to sleep. You'll be very tired." He said, sitting on the edge of the bed.
"Yes, sir." Owen nodded. He changed out of his suit and put it into his laundry. He put on his pajamas. Then he went to the bathroom and brushed his teeth. Owen walked back into his bedroom.
In the meantime, David had placed two pillows near the edge of the bed, one over the other. "Pull down your pants and underwear, then lay over the pillows on your stomach."
Owen did so without any commentary.
Xanatos placed himself to his side, rolling up his sleeves. "I hope you understand I'm doing this so we can move on with our life without any grudges."
"I understand, sir." Owen nodded, despite the fact Xanatos couldn't see him.
David raised his arm high, before hitting the center of the blond's bottom with the hairbrush. Owen grunted. The spot where the brush hit stung terribly. Then Xanatos kept going. The bed shook. His bottom ached. Tears welled in Owen' eyes, but he blinked them away.
"You have been lying to all of us about Talia. I'm extremely disappointed that you-"
crack
"Decided to lie, even though-"
crack
"You are supposed to be loyal and faithful to me. The perfect assistant, remember?"
crack
Owen's skin began to burn. As Xanatos spoke, Owen sobbed. Everything Xanatos said was true. His chest heaved as the brush hit him again.
"I- I interfered with Talia's life so much. She was supposed to die. But I couldn't let her. Lord Oberon would take her away from me or, or... I can't, I can't bare to- I can't protect her on my own. I need you to protect her." He barely got the words out.
David stopped for just a moment. Lord Oberon?
"We'll talk about this later." He resumed the spanking, making sure to cover all of Owen's behind, which soon became cherry red. Xanatos wanted him to let his bottled up emotions finally out. It was interesting to see Owen in such a predicament.
"From now on, no more secrets between us. No more playing games behind my back. And most of all..."
CRACK
"No more blaming yourself for everything. There, it's over." He put the hairbrush down, rubbing the other's lower back gently. "You did very well, Owen."
Sobs rocked Owen's body. His face was covered in tears and snot. He felt his bottom throb with pain. He wiped at his face with his sleeve. Xanatos winced: tomorrow night would've been his turn.
"How do you feel?" He asked helping him to stand up.
"I'm in pain and I feel tired, and scared." Owen's voice was thick.
"Why scared? We agreed on doing this so that you could feel better..." David put the pillows back to their places and pulled the covers.
"Not about this, for Talia. I was selfish and didn't think my actions through." He said.
"Owen, what did I just tell you? No more blaming yourself." David hugged him and patted his back. "Everything is fine now. Let's move on."
"Ok, sir." Owen nodded.
"Now go to sleep. Goodnight." Xanatos sighed. "If it's of any consolation to you, tomorrow it will be my turn..."
Owen got in bed, laying on his stomach. His emotions still raw and coming down hard, he sniffled as he waited for sleep. David stopped right in front of the door, hand on knob: he couldn't leave Owen like this. He turned back and carefully layed down next to the blond, opening his arms.
"Come here." He smiled.
Owen curled up next to him. David's presence soothed him. Xanatos wrapped his arms around him, rubbing the blond hair and humming. "You did very well, you know? I'm proud of you."
"It doesn't feel like it." Owen mumbled.
"Other men, who'd claim to be braver or better, would've never accepted to face their responsibilities and punishment. You did." He told his assistant.
"Am I allowed a pillow for tomorrow?" He asked.
"Of course. In fact...wait a moment." David stood up and quickly went into the bathroom, searched through the cabin and came back with a small jar. "This ointment will help."
He sat next to Owen and put some of the ointment on the warm bottom.
Owen sighed. That felt better. "Thank you, sir."
"You're welcome." He said.
They cuddled until Owen fell asleep. Xanatos untangled himself and quietly left. He went back to the elevator. Fox and everyone were getting off the elevator.
"Welcome back." David kissed his fiancee's cheek and hugged Talia. "Did you have fun, sweetie?"
"Yeah." She nodded.
"She won a prize." Roxanne grinned, showing him a unicorn plushie. "Cute, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is." He agreed.
Talia tried to stifle a yawn. "I'm sleepy."
"Then let's get you to bed." Xanatos placed his hand on Talia's back, gently guiding her towards her bedroom.
Talia told him about her night as they walked to her room. Talia changed into her multi colored star pajamas and called him back in.
"I'm happy that you had fun, sweetheart." David said as he tucked her in bed.
"Thanks, Poppa." Talia had Peaches and Tulip with her.
"And how are you going to call your new friend here?" He asked, passing her the stuffed unicorn.
"Hmm, maybe Strawberry or Star?" She thought.
"Star is cute." Xanatos kissed her forehead. "Now time to sleep."
"Night night, Poppa." She told him.
He caressed her hair and stood up, before going out of the room. Talia yawned, snuggling her toys. She fell asleep. The two women waited for him in the living room.
"So...how did it go with Owen?" Roxanne asked.
"Owen had some pent up anxieties. He was worried Lord Oberon would take Talia away. I don't know what he meant by that, but we'll talk to him once he feels better. I reminded him that there would be no more secrets between us and to stop blaming himself for everything." He sat on the couch next to Fox.
"It sounds like he was having a rough time." Fox frowned.
Roxanne sighed. "Poor Owen... I hope he'll feel better from now on."
"I hope so too. I think he'll feel better when he talks to Talia. He'll be sore for a few days so don't be too rough with him, Roxanne." Xanatos told her.
"Don't worry about me...you better worry about yourself instead, David." Roxanne said, narrowing her eyes and crossing her arms.
"What do you mean?" He asked.
"I mean that you deserve to be punished just as much as Owen." She looked at Fox. "Don't you agree?"
"Wait, I thought it was tomorrow?" Xanatos questioned.
"Roxie and I were talking and we decided it would be better if we did it now. She will be the one to spank you." Fox got up.
"You have no idea how long I've been waiting to give you a good lesson...especially after telling Bennett where I lived and bringing him in here." She smirked.
"I-" He started.
"David, stand up now." Fox pointed sternly. He got up and waited for Roxanne's instructions.
"Oh, this is going to be good." Roxanne thought, taking off her jacket.
"Since I'm physically much stronger, I'll just use my hand. Wouldn't want to seriously hurt you, now, would we?" She stood up and pointed to the table. "Pull your pants and underwear down, then bend over the table."
David loosened his belt and took it off. It fell on the carpet. Fox watched him stoically. His fingers fumbled with the button of his pants, but he eventually got it undone. He pulled them down and bent over the table.
Roxanne walked up to him and stood at his side, raising her arm as high as possible before hitting the man's buttocks with her open hand. The slap echoed through the living room. Xanatos gasped. The sting was immediate. Her hand felt hard, similar to the hairbrush he used on Owen. He realized how badly he messed up with Roxanne and it was going to get much worse.
The vampire started slowly at first, making sure that every swat remained impressed in David's mind. Once his butt cheeks were dark pink, she started spanking his sit spots, just above the thighs. "I thought you were smart, David, but trying to do business with a vampire is the stupidest thing you could've done. Especially with a Ventrue: they are natural manipulators and will always think that they're superior to anyone. Even you."
Xanatos tired not squirm as she hit his thighs. "I- I made a mistake. I thought I was above being manipulated. I shouldn't have gone to Bennett."
"You got that right. Now I'm officially collaborating with the Camarilla, which I hate...so long neutrality." She huffed, her pace becoming faster and the swats harder. "Not to mention your awful behavior towards Talia. You ignored her, treating her coldly, like she meant nothing. A, temporary nuisance."
The table groaned as Roxanne picked up speed. His legs ached badly. Tears of pain welled in his eyes. He grit his teeth.
"Answer her, David." Fox called out.
"I did. I did but I shouldn't have. I should have taken it more seriously." He said.
"I think what's worse is that you behaved just like your father. Even though you always criticized his methods and the fact that he left you alone most the times. Sounds familiar?" Roxanne told him.
David remembered being his father never being around and berated him whenever he was. How they grew apart after his mother's death. The disappointment of his father when he went off for college. His lip quivered as he quietly cried.
Roxanne kept spanking him for a few more minutes. "Now. You will receive twenty swats from Fox as well; she will use whatever implement she wants. After that, your punishment will be over." She said, patting his bottom gently.
David whimpered at the touch. Fox walked over to him, heels clacking on the stone before going quiet on the carpet. She glanced at his belt for a moment.
"Roxanne, in our room, there's a chest. You'll know it when you see it. Bring me the flogger, a wooden spoon and a ruler. I will decide then." Fox looked at Xanatos' bottom.
The vampire nodded and left.
Xanatos gulped. "Er...Fox, is it really necessary?... I learned my lesson, I assure you..."
"Are you trying to worm your way out your punishment, David? Because if you are, then I will use every last one of those implements on you. I don't care if our wedding is in a few days. You hurt our daughter. That is unacceptable." She glared at him.
David winced and shook his head. "No, dear, I'm sorry." He sniffled and put his head on his crossed arms, waiting.
Roxanne came back with all the objects. "Here you go."
Fox set them down and looked over each one carefully. Weighting them in her hand, she settled on the ruler. It was metal and flat. She walked to David and smacked him on his buttocks.
"AH!" David cried out and jumped up off the table, not expecting the pain to be so intense. It probably was because his bottom was very sensitive after Roxanne's spanking.
"David, get back into position. Roxanne, help me keep track." Fox told her.
Xanatos pouted, but bent over the table again. Roxanne nodded and started counting out loud. "One."
Fox hit his upper thighs next. For the few swats, she alternated between them and his bottom. "I'm disappointed in you, David, because you never tried to correct Talia's behavior in a way that mattered. You kept doing the same thing over and over. You are the adult."
CRACK
"I expect you to behave better. No more using work to get away from Talia, no more ignoring her, and most importantly..."
CRACK
"Telling her you care about her."
"AH! I-I'm sorry! OW! I'll do better!" David gasped and whimpered.
"Seven..." Roxanne said, observing the whole scene.
"Thank you, Roxanne." Fox looked at her. "You hear that, David? Almost to ten. Halfway there."
"Forgive me if I'm not ecstatic about the news..." He muttered, wiping away a few tears.
Fox hummed. The ruler was beginning to leave dark red lines. She made sure not to overlap her hits too much, however she used more force. Pausing before she hit twelve, she spoke. "It's not just you and Owen anymore. We're here to help with Talia too."
"OWW! I know! I'm sorry!" David hissed. He was feeling so embarrassed in that moment of being punished like a brat.
"Then talk to us rather than letting your frustration boil over. Every time you spoke about Talia to me, it was only disparaging. I never want to hear that much negativity about her again. Understand?" She asked sternly as she swatted him a few more times.
"Twelve, thirteen, fourteen..." Roxanne kept counting, unimpressed. The scolding, the sense of guilt, the pain...David couldn't help but start sobbing.
Fox knew David wouldn't answer her anymore. She raised her arm up high, it was getting a bit sore, and continued the punishment. She hit his cheeks and thighs harshly. Fox realized the ruler was warm in her hands. Each time the ruler fell on his butt cheeks, David let out a cry of pain.
"Last one."
CRACK
"There, all done. You're forgiven."
When everything was over, his knees were trembling slightly and he hid his face into his arms, crying.
"Shh, David. It's ok. You want to get off the table now?" Fox cooed softly, rubbing his back.
He nodded, sniffling and wiping the tears off his eyes. Delicately, he pulled up his trousers and underwear, hissing when they touched his sensitive skin.
"Come here, my darling." Fox hugged him. "I'll put some cream on your bottom when we get to the bedroom, ok?"
He blushed dark red, but enjoyed the care and attention. He sighed, content.
"I better go and cuddle my own darling." Roxanne chuckled, patting David's back and smiling. "You did well, all is forgiven. Have a good night, you two."
"Good night, Roxanne." Fox smiled at her.
As Xanatos followed Fox to their bedroom, Roxanne went to Owen's. She changed and lied next to him, wrapping her arms around his waist and kissing his head. In the Xanatos' room, Fox got the cream and rubbed on Xanatos's behind. Then she laid next to him.
He whimpered slightly, but was glad for the ointment. "I will need a pillow for a few days..."
"I know, dear. You'll have the finest pillow." Fox teased, kissing his cheek. "You feel alright now?"
"Mhmh..." David took a deep breath, inhaling Fox's perfume. It calmed him down. He curled up next to her and closed his eyes. "I love you."
"I love you too, David." She whispered.
