
HOT & BOTHERED
Sons of Zeus
By
Rachel Carrington
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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, places, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.
HOT & BOTHERED, Sons of Zeus
Copyright (c) 2005 by Rachel Dawn Carrington
Cover art and design (c) 2005 by Marianne LaCroix
Cover Model: Brooks Johnson
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form without permission, except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Law. Printed and bound in the United States of America.
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Amy struggled against the chains, biting hard on her lower lip to keep from crying aloud. Desperation and fear wrung tears from her eyes and only intensified her determination.
But she couldn't break the chains. Forged by Hephaestus himself, they were unrelenting and no mere mortal could break them.
She was trapped, laid out atop the boulder to be victim to any raging animal that came her way. Unable to defend herself, she closed her eyes and willed herself to die.
Fury swept through the god's muscular body and he dipped his hand into the flames, grasping the sword by its hilt. Then he whirled to face his adversary.
"You would leave a mortal to be torn to shreds by the animals of the forest because she rejected you?" Hephaestus roared, advancing. "My weapons are to be used for defense, not retribution!"
The one-eyed god stood his ground, arms folded, lower lip protruding. "The bitch deserved my punishment. How dare she look down her nose at a god!" Pyron thumped his scrawny chest. "I am a god! I could give her the world."
Hephaestus came forward, holding the sword at a threatening angle. "Perhaps she has taste."
Pyron's eyes narrowed and his nostrils flared. "You dare to ridicule me!"
"Why not? You are, after all, the god of mockery, are you not?" Hephaestus braced for impact as the smaller god charged.
The flames roared higher in the forge, rushing into the chimney as the God of Fire clashed with Pyron. Their swords came together with resounding clangs of steel, echoing through the air. The stone walls of Hephaestus' castle rocked with the fury of its master and as the gods' unleashed their fury, the winds outside began to howl.
Lightning slashed across the solid oak floors, illuminating the black leather boots Hephaestus wore. He parried a thrust to Pyron's sword and danced backwards, inviting the god to follow.
"I'll never tell you where she is," Pyron panted, out of shape and out of breath.
The God of Fire smiled without mirth. "Do you think I can't find one mortal woman?"
Pyron jabbed the tip of his sword forward, barely missing Hephaestus' shoulder. "You can't save her. By the time you find her, she'll be dead."
"We shall see about that. For now, I am out of time for this nonsense." With Pryon's back to the forge, Hephaestus seized the opportunity to gain the upper hand. He thrust forward and Pyron stumbled backwards, the heels of his boots connecting with stone. His eyes widened and he opened his mouth to speak just as steel shackled his wrists.
"What have you done?" Pyron roared. "You cannot keep me like this!" He trashed against his restraints, but every movement only served to tighten the circles of steel binding him.
Hephaestus stood watching him for a few minutes before he began backing toward the exit. "Your struggles are futile, my friend. All the gods know how powerful my shackles are. You will remain here until I return. Then, I will let Zeus decide what to do with you."
Pyron's breath escaped his lungs in a loud rush of air. "I will call a tribunal!"
Hephaestus only laughed and waved his hand over his shoulder before he disappeared.
The snap of a branch startled her from an uneasy sleep. Amy opened her eyes, but from her vantage point, she could see little.
Another snap and she held her breath. Was it an animal?
Night had fallen, enveloping her in the blackness. With the moon dipping behind a cloud, the shadows of the forest entombed her. The boulder scraped her spine and where the shackles bound her wrists, her skin bled.
A rustle made her catch her breath. "Who's there?" Her mouth dry, the words came out on a croak. Panic clenched her heart and a sob tore through her lungs. She hated feeling so powerless, so incapable, but the God of Mockery had seen to her helplessness.
Pyron had left her with little protection against the elements save the thin, ragged dress she wore. And he'd slathered her legs with honey to invite the vicious stings of insects. Helpless, she could only pray the animal approaching would kill her quickly.
A bright light flashed and she gasped, trying to draw her legs up higher on the stone. The shining glow washed over her, enhancing the torn and tattered appearance of her skin. She winced and licked her dry lips.
"Who's there?" she asked again, a tear trickling down her cheek.
"My name is Hephaestus." The deep voice reassured her. "And I've come to take you home."
Shoulders sagging with relief, Amy blinked back the tears. "Are you really Hephaestus?" Could Pyron be playing yet another cruel trick on her?
The spectrum of light broadened and a tall, broad-shouldered figure stepped into her line of vision.
Entranced, Amy could only stare at the vision facing her.
Could any mere mortal be as beautiful?
With streaming locks of dark brown hair that flowed to his shoulders, a chest enhanced with rippling muscles and a stomach so flat she could have balanced her mother's dinner plates easily, the man or god as it were, personified perfection. And when he spoke again, his voice poured over her like honey warmed by the sun.
"I'm really Hephaestus." He walked closer and Amy caught the scent of his skin, warm, woodsy and clean. He wore little more than rawhide pants, black boots, and a silver chain around his neck and when he reached for the bracelet circling her right wrist, she could clearly see his eyes. Silver orbs. How apropos for the God of Fire.
He snapped the steel easily, as if it were little more than a thin piece of string. "How long have you been here?"
Feeling suddenly self-conscious, Amy looked away. "I'm not sure. I lost track of time. Maybe the passing of three moons."
Hephaestus' jaw clenched and he broke the other bracelet with a quick flick of his fingers. "Can you sit up?" He placed his arm around her shoulders to assist her and the second Amy felt the warmth of his embrace, she relaxed.
He hadn't come to harm her. This was well and truly the god she'd read about in the textbooks at school. So many stories had been written about Hephaestus' forge and the unbreakable steel he created with his powers. But none of those fables had ever properly depicted the god's physical attributes. Or his gentleness. He'd always been portrayed as a relentless foe who captured his enemies and tormented them without mercy. But Amy saw him differently.
"Are you unwell?" He broke into her thoughts.
Amy felt the heat climbing up her face. "I...I'm...yes, but I'll be okay. I just need some water." As soon as she finished speaking, she saw a cup appear in Hephaestus' hand. He brought it to her lips and she drank deeply, allowing the cool liquid to bathe her parched throat.
Relieved, she lifted her head and looked into his eyes, seeing something flash within the depths of his gaze. "Thank you and thank you for saving me. I didn't think Pyron would tell anyone."
Hephaestus lifted her in his arms. "He didn't."
Amy settled against his chest. "Are you taking me home now?"
"Not yet. You have injuries I must attend to. I will summon Asclepsius to help me. You would not want to frighten your family by returning in this manner." He spoke matter-of-factly with almost no emotion in his voice. As he shifted her more tightly against his body, the dress she wore rode higher up her thighs and Hephaestus' gaze dropped.
Amy tried to tug the material down, but the tattered strands ripped from the pressure. She made a small sound of dismay and lifted her eyes to find Hephaestus watching her. Knowing her face was beet-red, she focused her attention on a spot just over his left shoulder.
"So where are you taking me?"
"To my home."
Startled, her eyes flew to his. "Your home?"
His lips twitched. "Gods have homes, too, Amy." His voice offered comfort and a hint of something more. And the way he said her name sent chills down her spine.
"I didn't mean to imply..."she stopped talking, unsure of how to continue. He knew her name. The knowledge shouldn't make her tingle inside, but a warmth stole over her body, wrapping her in intense heat. She'd always had a fascination with the gods, but this one, the God of Fire, took her breath away. She cleared her throat softly and changed the subject. "How long will it take Asclepsius to heal me?"
"Not long. Now, hold on tight."
Amy had just enough time to follow the command before the air shifted, splicing open in a long stream of bright light. Her squeal was lost in the transfer and when she finally opened her eyes, she saw unfamiliar surroundings made up of dark, stone walls. The heat was almost overwhelming.
"Welcome to my home," Hephaestus whispered into her ear.
She shivered in spite of the fire glowing several steps ahead. "You can put me down now."
Instead of taking her up on her offer, Hephaestus began walking toward a long corridor, his steps steady and sure. They passed by a stretch of doors, walls covered with ancient artifacts Amy couldn't see well before the god stopped in front of a golden door.
Was it his bedroom? The thought made her tingle. "I'm really okay, Hephaestus. I'm feeling better already. In fact, I don't think there's any need to call the healer. I'll be perfectly..."
Hephaestus kicked open the door and Amy gasped. The room was straight out of a fantasy. With silken draperies hanging over a circular bed, furs adorning the floors and bright orange flames flickered inside the hearth, it promised much more than comfort. A tray of fresh fruit and cheese occupied the top of a sturdy, wooden table and two, silver chalices completed the scene.
"This is your bedchamber?" She hoped her voice didn't squeak.
He didn't immediately respond. Instead, he carried her to the bed, parted the silky strands of the drapes and placed her atop satin pillows. He took his time adjusting a softly-scented blanket over her before he replied. "Yes, it is."
Her mouth went dry as she looked up. Their eyes connected and held before Hephaestus straightened and whirled away from her. "I must go summon Asclepsius. I shall return." His boots thumped across the floor and he was gone before Amy could say another word.
\*
Hephaestus stoked the fire and shut out the sounds of Pyron's angry demands. He'd let the god stew for a while before he released him. First, he would know that Amy was safe. Hephaestus would not allow Pyron to harm her again.
The thought made him frown. It had been a long time since he'd felt the stirrings of desire within his loins, but at the first touch of Amy's soft body in his arms, his cock had sprung to life.
Still painfully hard, he knelt in front of the hearth and dropped the poker to the stone landing. He didn't want to feel the pangs of lust, especially for a mortal woman. Such feelings were for the weak.
He'd let down his guard once, had allowed himself to fall in love and she'd betrayed him, walking away when he'd given her what she'd truly wanted...immortality. His hands fisted. No, he wouldn't make such a mistake again. At least with goddesses, he knew where he stood. Mortal women could not be trusted.
He heard the air crackle behind him seconds before the unwelcome visitor spoke.
"You'd be taking one hell of a risk."
Hephaestus turned slowly, catching the smirk on his brother's face. "Why are you here, Ares?"
The God of War circled the room, his arms folded over his chest. Hephaestus' irritation climbed a notch.
"Let's just say I keep my ear to the ground." Ares jutted his chin toward the hallway. "Mortal women can be a lot of trouble."
Hephaestus glared at him. "I don't recall asking your opinion."
"True, but I know how you are. You'll think something to death." Ares strolled forward and clapped his brother on the shoulder. "Take my advice. Don't."
Hephaestus blinked at him. "You've got something to say so spit it out."
Teeth flashing brightly, Ares chuckled. "Let's just say you've never been fucked until you've fucked a mortal."
Whipping around, Hephaestus gave Ares his back. "You're forgetting I've been with a mortal woman."
Ares leaned in closer, his voice lowered to a naughty whisper. "Not just any mortal woman, Heph. I'm talking a flesh and blood, sexier-than-Hades mortal who can bring you to your knees. The other woman was a mere ghost compared to the one who waits atop your bed right now."
His blood quickening, Hephaestus stomped away from Ares. "What is the purpose of his visit? Just to tell me I need to fuck a mortal woman?"
Ares laughed aloud. "No, actually, I wanted to warn you that being with a mortal woman does have one side effect...Hera's wrath." He disappeared before Hephaestus could respond.
"Hephaestus?" The soft voice calling his name brought him around and he realized his mistake.
He shouldn't have looked at her. His body hadn't calmed from the first time he'd seen her, but now, she stood before him, wearing a tattered dress and an innocent expression. With long, golden limbs, hair the color of coal and vivid, blue eyes, she captured every inch of his attention. And held it.
He cleared his throat. "You should go back to bed."
Amy walked closer, her bare feet patting against the stone floor. "Was that just Ares I saw?"
As she shivered, Hephaestus immediately reached for her, offering comfort, which his body took as a claim. His cock pressed against the crotch of his rawhide pants and if he held her, Amy would feel him. He quickly dropped his hands before he could actually touch her. "Yes, Ares was here, but he's gone now."
"He looks very intimidating."
Hephaestus returned to the fire. "Only to mortals." The words were out before he could stop them. He thought about retracting them, but one glance over his shoulder told him Amy didn't appear to be offended.
"I should go home now. I feel much better."
Her soft voice continued to taunt him and as the blood raced through his veins, his hands clenched into fists. "Perhaps you're right." The need to push her away consumed him. If she didn't leave his home soon, he'd take her.
He heard the padding of her footsteps and turned to see her walking back down the hallway. Had his words hurt her in some small way? Damnit! He didn't know how to deal with mortals!
He needed her gone.
Amy didn't know why she'd returned to Hephaestus' bedroom. She had nothing to retrieve before the god took her home, but the desperation she'd heard in his voice convinced her she should have insisted he take her home immediately. She never should have come here.
"Amy?" His deep voice, just over her left shoulder, startled her, but she didn't turn around. Instead, she walked closer to the bed and caught a handful of the silk drapery hanging from a bronze pole overhead.
"So you'll take me home now then?"
"I need to talk to Pyron again, to make sure he won't hurt you."
She held up one hand, a little surprised that it shook. Did Hephaestus do that to her? Trying to convince herself it was just nerves was futile. The god walked closer and she heard each footfall and when he settled his hands on her shoulders, her stomach muscles clenched.
"Pyron won't hurt me again. He doesn't believe in returning to his spoils. At least, that's what he told me."
With one sudden movement, Hephaestus whipped her around in his arms and she found herself staring up into a mask of fury. "Did Pyron hurt you?" His fingers bit into her arms, but Amy was too stunned to wince. When she didn't immediately respond, he gave her a little shake. "Answer me, Amy."
Her mouth fell open. "I...not much."
He gave a low curse and rephrased his question. "Did he rape you?"
She looked down at the rug at her feet. "He tried, but something or someone stopped him. I wasn't sure..."
Hephaestus cupped her face and looked deep into her eyes. "I called him to me."
"Why?"
"Because I felt your pain."
"How?"
He released her instantly. "I'm not sure why." He tried to step away, but she reached for him, clutching at his biceps.
"Yes, you do. What is it that you aren't telling me?" She walked closer, her breasts inches away from his chest. His eyes dropped and she felt the nipples peak against the thin, cotton shift she wore.
Hephaestus' hands settled on her waist. "I could only feel your pain if we are connected."
Her head tipped back to see his face and the confusion swirling in the depths of his silver eyes. "But we aren't connected."
He yanked her forward and her breath caught on a gasp. "We must be. Otherwise, there would not be such a strong attraction between us and I would not now have the desire to kill Pyron."
She gasped. "You can't kill him! He's a god."
"Even gods are destructible," he corrected, one hand coming up to her face to smooth the hair away from her cheek. "Do you know how beautiful you are?"
The change in his eyes, his demeanor sent her senses whirling. How could she be connected to a god? It was impossible. She would know, wouldn't she? Her family would have known and if they had, they would have told her. She was sure of it.
"Amy," his voice caressed her, "stop trying to figure it out. The connection is there. I didn't realize it until now, but it's strong. Perhaps we were meant to meet."
Her heart thundered in her breast and that spot held Hephaestus' gaze. He wanted to touch her. She felt the need shimmering through her veins. And the realization that she craved the feel of his hand gliding over her skin was intoxicating.
The air changed, intensified, and vibrated with their emotions. The curtains covering the bed began to shift, gliding open over the rods and the ground shifted beneath Amy's feet. She clutched at Hephaestus as her abdomen roiled in fear.
"What's happening?" she asked in a hushed tone of voice.
Hephaestus cupped her face. "The fates have spoken, Amy." He dropped his head lower, his lips hovering over hers. "They said you belong to me."
She blinked at him. "Belong to you?" Her temper began to flare. "I don't belong to any man or-or-god!" She gave his chest a hearty shove and tried to move around him, but Hephaestus caught her around the waist and brought her face to face with him again. "Let go of me," she demanded.
"Why are you so angry? I only told you what the fates said." His jaw clenched. "It wasn't my choice."
"And it's apparent you find the entire idea loathsome." She shoved him again. "Well, thank you for saving my life, but if you would be so kind as to poof me back home, I'd greatly appreciate it."
His brows lowered and Amy felt the tension in his body. "Gods do not poof and unfortunately," he shot a glance over his shoulder, "I have something else to take care of at present." He turned toward the door. "Stay put. I'll be back as soon as I can." Without waiting for her response, he disappeared.
"Zeus demands that you release me," Pyron announced in a self-righteous tone of voice.
"Don't pretend to know what my father commands," Hephaestus replied as he descended the stairs into the basement where he'd sent Pyron. "I make the decisions here."
"You cannot keep me here!" The roar was preceded by Pyron's frantic struggles against the manacles.
Hephaestus folded his arms across his chest. "I can do whatever I want to do, Pyron. You crossed a line and for that, I will decide your punishment."
The God of Mockery swallowed hard and for a brief moment, Hephaestus wondered if he would plead for his freedom. But then Pyron's face closed and his jaw clenched.
"Go to hell," he snarled.
Hephaestus held out one hand and danced a fireball in the center of his palm. "You first." He unleashed the deadly missile, bouncing it off the wall atop Pyron's head, igniting the bricks behind him.
Pyron cringed and yelped, trying to duck the flames. "You're crazy. You're fucking crazy! I'll call a tribunal for this."
Hephaestus laughed. "You're a lesser god. Do you really think you have that much power?" He walked closer, wanting the god to see he meant business. "The wall was a warning. Go near Amy again and you'll be my target next time. Do I make myself clear?"
"Why are you so crazy over this wench? Have you gotten pussy from her already?"
Balling his fist, Hephaestus punched him squarely in the nose. Pyron howled in pain, unable to do anything else. "Heed my words, Pyron. Go near her again and I will send your body to Hades piece by charred piece." With a curl to his lip, he disappeared, leaving the god still moaning from his injury.
Amy paced the confines of the bedchamber, chafing against Hephaestus' command that she stay put, but unable to do much more. She certainly didn't want to wander out of the room and possibly run into Ares or some other god.
Her feet sank in the plush rug covering the floor and the fire in the hearth warmed the air to a pleasurable degree. Glancing down at her tattered dress, she wished, not for the first time, she had something else to change into. She needed every bit of self-confidence she possessed if she was going to be able to convince Hephaestus he'd misunderstood the fates.
As if conjured by her thoughts, Hephaestus returned to the center of the room, his eyes sweeping over her in one long look, which warmed her from head to toe. "Are you okay?"
Her brows lowered and she felt her temper spiking again. "I'm fine, but I want to go home."
The god cursed below his breath. "I'm afraid I cannot take you home now, Amy."
Her eyes widened. "So now, I'm to be held captive here."
He shook his head slowly. "That has never been my intention, but the hunger you have created within me has nearly driven me to my knees."
Heart thumping wildly, she approached him. Her palms grew damp. "You're saying you're keeping me here to sate your lust?" Not that the idea didn't have its merits.
"As long as Pyron can harm you, I would not feel right about returning you to your home." He cupped her cheek like before. "You must trust me, Amy. I will only do what is best for you."
"How can I trust you? I don't even know you."
His nostrils flared. "As of tonight, that will change."
Her blood heated and that heat spliced her pussy. "What are you talking about? What does tonight have to do with anything? If you think I'm going to do anything with you out of gratitude, you are sadly mistaken."
Hand fisting in her hair, he brought her head lower, close to his lips. Her breath caught in her throat and the fire in his eyes made her tingle from head to toe and all places in between. "Look into my eyes, Amy. Tell me what you see."
The richness of his deep voice enticed her and she followed the command, her gaze connecting with his. And what she saw shocked her. Desire. Need. Uncertainty. That a god could display such emotion, especially to a mortal, astounded her.
"How do you know the fates weren't mistaken?" she whispered.
Thunder crashed and lightning sizzled just outside the window. Hephaestus' lips curved into a smile. "I do not believe the sisters are happy with your question."
She shot a glance toward the window. "So what do we do now?" The minute she said the words, she realized she'd made a mistake. The god would read between the lines and assume she'd issued a subliminal invitation, but that hadn't been her intention. Or had it?
"So where's Pyron?" She attempted to change the subject.
Hephaestus shook his head. "No, Amy. We will not speak of Pyron or anything else tonight." He swept one hand toward the fireplace and the flames intensified, rising higher and higher until the room began to glow.
Amy shivered as his eyes began to warm like melted silver. "So what do we talk about then?"
He held out one hand. "Us."
"Hephaestus, there is no us." Even as she said the words, she took his hand.
His fingers curled around hers and he began to guide her toward the bed. Heat swarmed her, more than just the flames from the fireplace. This was an intense inferno growing from within.
Was Hephaestus drawing her to him in some way? Was this some type of hypnosis? She tried to explain away the magnetism, but there was a strong connection she couldn't decipher. She felt herself swaying toward him, sinking under his spell.
With a flick of his fingers, he lowered the blankets on the bed. "Let me be with you, Amy. Let me show you the beauty, which exists between a woman and a man."
Her hand glided over his cheek. "But you're not just a man.'
His lips twitched. "That's true, but then, when I make love to you, the difference will be better than you could ever have imagined."
Her pussy began to throb, beating in time with her heart. "I've never..." she broke off, uncertain of how to continue. She'd never been with a man. Did he know that already? He was a god; surely, he knew everything about her.
Hephaestus' smile faded as he took hold of her hands. "Then your first time must be the most memorable. Come let me love you."
And in that moment, she was lost. It didn't seem to matter that she'd jumped from the frying pan and into the fire. Amy didn't think about the repercussions or what would happen once they made love. She only saw the promise of tonight in the god's eyes and for now, that would have to be enough.
"Yes." The whisper was barely audible, but it was all the compliance Hephaestus needed.
He drew her toward the bed, his eyes holding hers, and in those silver depths, Amy began to drown. His hand swept over her face. "Close your eyes. Enjoy each sensation."
Amy did as instructed, her teeth nibbling her lower lips. Her nipples peaked, pushing against the tattered material of her dress. The rustle of his rawhide pants made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up, and the woodsy male scent of his skin intoxicated her. Then she felt the mattress against the back of her legs before Hephaestus slowly lowered her.
She caught her breath and held it, but she didn't open her eyes, not even when the dress slid off her body. The cool air washed over her skin, pebbling her nipples further. And for a long, agonizing moment, nothing happened. Her heart began to rap against the wall of her chest.
Then he touched her. The tip of his fingertips stroked the line of her jaw, the length of her neck, and she began to draw shallow breaths. Those wicked fingers crawled down between her breasts, tip-toed down to her abdomen and tickled her bikini line.
Drowning, she clenched her hands atop the coverlet. The wispy material covering her mons gave way beneath the tug of his hand and Amy felt exposed and deliciously sexy.
"Do you know how beautiful you are?" The heated words spilled over her, and for a moment, her eyes flickered. "Uh-uh-uh-. Closed, remember? It enhances the pleasure."
That she could believe. The lips of her pussy quivered and a drop of moisture seeped out of the crease.
"So perfect," Hephaestus began to caress the fullness of her nether lips, absorbing the slickness of her juices. "I've never wanted to make love to a woman as much as I do you."
She moaned. The man was pure sex, each word a seduction, each move intended to send her spiraling into the sweet oblivion of orgasm. A sound she didn't recognize reached her ears, then a rustle. A clink as his pants hit the floor.
And then a different kind of touch. He rubbed her thighs with the head of his cock, circling the skin in tantalizing spirals. Working his way up, he straddled her thighs and caressed her belly button with his thickness.
Amy bit her lower lip to keep from screaming. The heat and softness of the head of his cock came closer, sliding in between her breasts. She plumped the mounds and Hephaestus began to rock, pumping in and out of the valley.
"Now, open your eyes," he commanded in a guttural voice. "See what you do to me."
Following the dictate, she caught sight of the beauty of his cock, thick veins, smooth skin with a drop of moisture clinging to the slit, which seemed to grow wider before her eyes. She'd never seen a man naked before, but if Hephaestus was the model, she'd missed a lot.
She opened her mouth to speak, but Hephaestus pressed his finger against her lips. "No words," he whispered, beginning to slide back down her body, rubbing his cock over every inch of her skin, taking his time.
"Are you wet for me?"
The erotic words made her heart skip a beat, but she couldn't answer, but then she didn't need to. For the god's fingers slipped between the lips of her pussy to check for himself.
"Oh, yeah. You're wet."
The feel of his hard fingers sinking deep into her channel, stretching her flesh made her hips arch off the bed. Her body begged for his, her pussy weeping with need.
"I can't wait," she managed to whisper before she reached for him, dragging his face down to hers. Lips collided and the kiss was raw, hungry, and like a starving man reaching for a piece of bread, Amy fell into it, her hands cupping his face. In the far reaches of her mind, where common sense still resided, she knew she should put a stop to this wild, desperate longing, but common sense had been cast aside, walked on by emotions much more powerful, stronger, controlling.
Her blood turned to a rich, thick liquid, moving languorously through her veins, humming in her ears. Hephaestus' hands moved against her bare skin, drifting over the tops of her breasts and her pulse thrummed, jumping against her neck.
He dipped his head and pressed a kiss against her bare abdomen; her breath hissed out from between her teeth. His hands lifted her hips, drawing her lithe body closer to the devastating scrape of his teeth on her exposed skin.
Her head twisted atop the pillow. His cock was so close, ready to sink into her pussy and yet, he hesitated, drawing out each sensation with maddening precision. Finally, she arched her hips, leaving no doubt what she wanted. Demanding and needy, she could feel his eyes on her, hot and piercing. Seconds after she whispered his name, he filled her with the silken length of his cock, pushing into her tight channel.
His gasp mingled with hers and though she'd expected pain, Amy only felt the sheer perfection of being joined with a man, and not just any man, but one who by his eyes alone could make her panties wet.
His hips bumped against hers, bare flesh smacking against bare flesh. Amy's muscles tensed and she held him tightly against her, the hairiness of his chest scraping her bare breasts.
"Ah, God, Amy. You're so tight. I don't want to hurt you."
"You're not." She stroked his back as an added measure of reassurance. "Just don't stop."
He stiffen, muttered something under his breath. "I can't hold on. I'm going to come."
Amy recognized her own release building within her, having experienced it in the darkness of her own bedroom despite her mother's warnings against such wickedness. And then the stars exploded, showering her, cramping her muscles. The orgasm infused her with more heat than any fire the god could have built and left her spent, exhausted and craving more.
Hephaestus drew in a sharp breath and jerked, groaning low and long. "Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah," he chanted, continuing to pump until she'd milked him dry. After a long pause, he lifted his head from her shoulder and whispered, "From the moment I saw you, I knew you'd be this perfect."
Amy fell asleep with those words resounding in her mind and her head cradled on Hephaestus' warm chest.
Pyron raged against his shackles, fury building within his soul. He would make Hephaestus pay for this inhumanity.
"Hera, if you're listening, I need your help! Release me, Hera, that I may take revenge on my enemies." He tipped his face toward the ceiling and closed his eyes, waiting to feel the goddess' power.
The air sizzled and split, heralding the arrival of Zeus' powerful wife. "Who are you to summon me?" Tall and regal with chestnut hair swept atop her head, Hera folded her arms across her chest, the sleeves of her crystal blue robe dipping low.
Pyron swallowed his fear and responded, dipping his head low. "Hera, you honor me with your presence."
She snapped her fingers with irritation. "Answer my question."
"Your son has bound me here against my will and refuses to release me. You are the only one who can break your son's chains." Pyron's voice took on a squeak. "He only holds me so he can sleep with the mortal woman who belongs to me."
Hera's brows knitted. "If this woman does indeed belong to you, why is she with Hephaestus now?"
Pyron knew Hera was playing with him. The goddess knew everything that happened with her sons and he doubted she didn't know about Hephaestus' dalliance with the mortal woman now.
He gritted his teeth to keep his temper under control. "Because he wants to fuck her."
The goddess laughed low, her porcelain face devoid of any humor. "You dare to speak in such a manner in front of one you know can take your life. You're either very determined or very stupid. Which is it?"
He felt the heat rush to his cheeks and his knees went weak. A flash of anger flickered in Hera's eyes and he began to doubt his decision to call her. But at present, she was his only hope. He had to convince her to free him or he would be stuck here until Hephaestus decided to either kill him or forget about him.
"I'm determined to save my own life."
Hera strolled toward him and grabbed the shackles binding Pyron's wrist. "I don't agree with my son's methods. Choosing a mortal over a god is deplorable." She snapped the other manacle surrounding the opposite wrist. "But I will not allow you to harm my son."
Pyron nodded his head in acknowledgement. "That was never my intention. I only sought my freedom."
She released the chains holding his feet in place and stepped back. "Be gone with you then and heed my warning. If you harm my son, I will find you."
Pyron bowed low. "Thank you, Hera. I will always remember this kindness."
"Of course, you shall. I shall make sure of it."
Amy woke alone but deliciously tired. She stretched her arms over her head and smiled. A rose lay on the pillow next to her and Hephaestus' scent enveloped her. Her smile broadened.
Last night had been phenomenal, a night she would never forget. Her happiness began to fade. But it would be the only night she had with the god. Today, she would return to her home, to her family.
The thought propelled her from the bed and she frowned down at the remains of her dress lying on the bedroom floor. She didn't want to put it back on, but she had little else to wear. Nose wrinkling, she held it up next to her. Well, it would have to do.
As she started to slip her arms into the material, Hephaestus pushed open the bedroom door and she stilled.
"Hi." Her mouth went dry as he approached her. Could any man or god look as incredible? His hair was damp and dripped water onto his shoulders. The rawhide pants he wore clung to his crotch and Amy's breath quickened. She well remembered what hid beneath that leather pouch.
"Good morning." His voice warmed her from head to toe and as he walked toward her, muscles rippling, her pussy took notice, throbbing and pulsing with need. She didn't understand the sudden mind-numbing desire robbing her of thought. The feelings were foreign, making her uncertain, vulnerable.
"Will I be going home today?" She didn't know what made her ask that question first when really, she wanted to demand he kiss her, ravage her as he did the night before. How could she leave now? Would he want her to?
Hephaestus studied her for a long moment before responding. "Do you want to go home?"
The ball was in her court, and nerves jumped in the pit of her stomach. "I need to see my family."
He reached out and twirled one lock of hair around his fingers. "That didn't answer my question."
Her tongue touched her lips. "I need to make sure they're all right. They will be worried about me." Anxiety rushed onward. "I mean, even now they are probably wondering where I am, if I'm all right."
"I can send word. Your family will know you are safe. I would not allow them to worry." He brought her hair to his nose, inhaling deeply. "I love your smell."
By the gods, she was going to come just standing in front of him. "This-um-doesn't really-um-solve anything. I mean, last night was just one night and we didn't really say what today would bring. I never asked for any promises and..." she stopped, shaking her head almost violently. "Never mind. I'm just rambling. I tend to do that when I get nervous."
One eyebrow arched. "You're nervous?" He leaned in closer, his breath whispering across her cheek. "Do I make you nervous?"
Her hand pressed against his chest. "A little."
"Even after last night?"
"Because of last night."
He took another step toward her, bringing his bulging cock to her thigh. "Explain."
She blew out a breath and lifted a shaky hand to her tangled hair. "I've never felt that way before. It was all new to me, but then, you know that. I just never expected it to be so-so powerful."
A smile coated his lips. "That's a good thing, right?"
"Yes-no-I'm not sure." Her heart pounded so loud she was sure he could hear it. "I'm not sure what to think, but I'm not supposed to be here."
"This is my home, Amy, and who I choose to have in my home is my business. You're an invited guest."
"But I'm a mortal and you're a god."
Her words seemed to give him pause and for a brief moment, she thought she saw wariness in his gaze. Then he quickly brought his expression under control. "No matter. Some things we have no control over."
She frowned. "Is that what you intend to do with me, control me?"
"Amy, I..." he broke off, his eyes alert. Amy sensed the anger tightening his muscles, but before she could speak, he whirled around, barked a "stay put" over his shoulder and then disappeared.
And instincts told her this was an omen of bad things to come.
\*
The village lay in ruins, charred and torn with little to resemble a happy community. Hephaestus walked from cabin to cabin, looking for life but finding none.
Pyron had left none alive.
There was no doubt in Hephaestus' mind that the god had caused the chaos. Since he'd discovered Pyron had somehow managed to escape, he knew the god would seek revenge. But Hephaestus had assumed the revenge would be against him and not Amy.
Now he must tell her the village she called home was no more. She'd lost everything, including her family, in Pyron's vicious retribution.
Pyron smiled, rubbing his hands together with glee. One half of his revenge was complete, but not even Hera's warning could prevent him from punishing Hephaestus. The god had humiliated him, chaining him like a dog.
Shoulders squared to thrust his puny chest forward, Pyron ascended into the air, ready to confront the God of Fire again, but this time, it would be on his terms. He wouldn't be so foolish as to get caught again.
No, this time, he would be the victor and Hephaestus would long remember the name of Pyron.
Amy knew simply by looking at Hephaestus' face that something terrible had happened. She took two steps toward him the minute he reappeared in the bedroom, but he held up on hand, halting her in her tracks.
"Amy, I fear there is something I must tell you, something which will not be easy to hear."
Her legs went weak, but she forced herself to remain standing. She would not fall, no matter what. Calling upon every ounce of strength she possessed, she replied, "Go on."
His eyes flashed with pain and the look caught Amy unawares. She felt the agony deep within her soul and without another word, she knew. Like a rushing waterfall, the depth of despair began to wash over her, drawing her under while flashes of images raced in front of her eyes.
Her mother laughing. Her father racing her to the well. Even the dog barking at her heels as she skipped off to school.
"No," she whispered, backing toward the bed.
Hephaestus didn't move. He simply stood in place, his hands fisted at his sides. "Pyron attacked your village this morning."
"No. You told me they were okay. That's what you said, and I believed you." Her throat constricted and she staggered, one hand going to her forehead. "My family?" She didn't want to hear his next words, but the knowledge was already there, deep within her. Emptiness coated her soul and left her feeling hopeless and bleak. She was well and truly alone in this world.
"I'm sorry, but there were no survivors."
The words battered her, pushing her to her knees. Crippled and blind with agony, she held her head in her hands and began to weep. In the next instant, she felt his arms going around her, strong and secure, holding her against his chest, while her heart broke.
Whispering words she didn't understand, Hephaestus rocked her, offering comfort, which she gladly took. His warm hands stroked her chilled skin before he lifted her and carried her to the bed.
He placed her upon the coverlet and smoothed her hair away from her face. "I cannot tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Such pain is devastating." Sitting down on the edge next to her hip, he took hold of her hand. "I can only assure you that Pyron will never do this again."
The words offered no reassurance. Hephaestus' vengeance wouldn't bring her family back. She lifted her eyes to his face. "What will I do now? I have no home. No family." Her voice broke and she looked down at their joined hands. "Never mind. I didn't mean to..."
He shushed her with one finger against her lips. "Hush now. There's no need to think about tomorrow when you still need to get through today."
Her lips began to quiver. "I don't even have bodies to bury."
Hephaestus' jaw clenched, and he stood. "You should rest now. I'll bring you something to eat in a while, but for now, close your eyes."
His hand moved, sweeping over her face, and Amy felt her eyelids droop. Exhaustion stole into her limbs, making them heavy and cumbersome. Whatever magic Hephaestus used, worked.
The last thing she saw before she succumbed to his spell was his face, his gentle eyes offering a reprieve from the horrors she'd have to face again.
Hephaestus left Amy in a deep sleep, rage guiding him through the night. Pyron had run like the rat he was, hiding from retribution, but his efforts were fruitless. Hephaestus would find him, and this time, there would be no mercy.
"You're choosing a god over a mortal."
The feminine voice stopped him in his tracks, and he turned slowly. As usual, his mother looked like an elegant queen, only without even the merest hint of congeniality on her face.
"Mother, why do I think you had something to do with this?"
His words didn't affect her. "You left him chained like an animal, Hephaestus. Pyron is a god."
"He destroyed an entire village, killed Amy's family." Blood suffused his face.
Hera studied her nails even in the darkness. "Well, that was a shame indeed, but really, you didn't expect him not to retaliate, did you? I mean, he was bested by a mortal and then chained in your dungeon. Even a god has his pride."
His hands curled into fists. "Stop interfering in my life."
"Then stop fucking mortals."
Fury roared through him, sucking him into a dark vortex, but he refused to give in. His mission wasn't complete and Amy would awaken soon.
"You've had your say, now get the hell out of my life. And don't return unless you're invited." The way he said the sentence would leave his mother in no doubt as to when that invitation would take place. On the back side of never.
Hera's eyes narrowed. "Be careful, Son. You might just find yourself catching hold of a tail of a tiger you can't defeat."
Hephaestus waved a hand and disappeared, shutting out his mother's smug face. He would have to deal with her later because she would return.
Hera always returned.
Pyron's knees knocked together, but he attributed it to the chilliness in the air. Never would he admit fear made his limbs shake, but catching Hephaestus' scent in his nostrils gave him palpations.
When in the throes of anger, Pyron was capable of much destruction, but face to face with the god of fire, the one god the others admired, respected, and came to for weapons and unbreakable chains, he wasn't so sure of his abilities. But he was deadly sure of Hephaestus'.
Swallowing the lump in his throat, he squatted next to a fallen log and sought refuge behind a copse of trees, attempting to mask his scent. The muskiness of the wet leaves and the aroma of pine would have to be adequate cover. It was all he had, especially since he'd expended most of his energy destroying that village. Apparently, Zeus hadn't seen fit to gift him with enough power to sustain himself longer than a few minutes at a time.
An owl hooted and Pyron jumped. By the gods, he almost prayed that Hephaestus would find him so the fear could be confronted. Perhaps Hades would have mercy on him and allow him to spend eternity in the Elysian Fields.
A twig snapped and Pyron came to his feet, sweat pouring down the back of his neck. He didn't need to ask if someone was approaching. The smell of burning wood assaulted his nose seconds before the flames began licking at his feet.
Dear God, Hephaestus was burning him out!
Grimly, Hephaestus directed the steady stream of fire into the forest, having picked up Pyron's scent seconds before, along with the palpable feel of the lesser god's terror.
His lips curled upwards in a smile. Good. He wanted Pyron to taste the fear the villagers would have felt before he incinerated them. Beyond that, he wanted the god to know in a matter of minutes, his life would be over.
A yelp reached his ears and flailing arms and legs came into view as Pyron dashed out of his hiding place.
"Hello, Pyron." Hephaestus' voice held no welcome.
"Now, Hephaestus, I know why you're here, but Zeus wouldn't be happy if you hurt me. You know how he feels about gods hurting other gods." Pyron shifted from one foot to the other. "In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if he directed his anger at you if you were to take my life. See," he held up one finger, "the way I see it is you don't really have the choice to kill me because that would bring retribution on yourself."
Head tipped to one side, Hephaestus allowed the god to babble for a few seconds longer before he wearied of the noise. "That's enough."
Pyron stopped talking at once and clasped his hands together nervously in front of his body. His eyes flicked left and right, never quite settling on Hephaestus' face. A long silence fell, heavy and oppressive.
"I'm going to kill you."
"Didn't you hear a word I said?"
Hephaestus closed one eye and used his hands to form a frame in the air. "I heard, but I'm still going to kill you."
Pyron stumbled backwards. "You can't kill me, and what are you doing? Stop that!" A few more staggering steps brought his back against a tree trunk.
"I'm just trying to determine the best target area."
The smaller god grew pale. "Stop fucking with me! If you're going to do it, then be man enough to just do it. I'm not going to stand here while you---"
A quick bolt of energy silenced the god forever.
Hephaestus looked down at his handiwork. "When I say enough, I mean enough."
Amy paced back and forth just inside the front entrance. Occasionally, she would crack open the door to peer out into the darkness. The fire behind her had died down to barely a flicker, and time had ceased to exist. She didn't know how long Hephaestus had been gone or how long she'd slept.
She only knew she'd awakened to an empty house and a pain so deep in her heart it sliced to the bone.
Standing in the open doorway, she tipped her face up to the cool breeze. Stars winked in the sky, offering a soothing glow against the inky sky. But Amy couldn't focus on the beauty of the night.
"Where are you? And why am I thinking about you?" Placing her hand over her heart, she turned back toward the foyer, and her eyes instantly connected with a pair of silver orbs.
"Hephaestus?" She came closer. He looked dark and dangerous, his jaw hard, unyielding. "What's wrong?" Her hand lifted to touch his bare chest, and the muscles contracted beneath her fingertips.
"Pyron is dead," he said bluntly.
She swallowed the lump of anxiety in her throat. "You killed him."
"I did."
"Why?"
An eyebrow lifted. "Do you not think he deserved to die for what he did to your family?"
Yes. No. Amy didn't know how to respond. No one had ever sought retribution on her behalf before. She wasn't sure what she should say. A part of her wanted to thank him, but nothing would soothe the ache in the pit of her stomach.
She turned away. "I should go."
"Where will you go?" His voice sounded close, just over her right shoulder.
The words brought a sharp reminder of her loss. "I-I don't know. I haven't thought that far ahead."
He lifted her hair away from her neck, and chills leapfrogged down her spine. "Stay here."
The invitation startled her, and she turned her head, meeting his gaze to gauge his sincerity. "Why would you want me to stay here?"
Honesty sparked in his eyes. "I'm not sure. I just know I don't want you to leave."
Pivoting fully, she touched her hand to his face. "Thank you for everything you've done for me, but I can't ask you to allow me to stay. That's taking on a lot more than you bargained for."
His fingers curled around her wrist, holding her hand in place. "Amy, don't consider my words as an act of benevolence." Thumb stroking the soft skin he held, he gave her a toe-curling smile. "I've had sex before, but I've never made love in such a way that my mind can think of nothing else."
Suddenly, breathing wasn't so important anymore. Looking into pools of liquid silver, she found herself leaning closer to him, seeking the touch of his lips, the caress of his tongue against hers.
The kiss was both soft and gentle, reassuring and demanding, coaxing and yielding. Hephaestus' tongue caressed the corners of her mouth, and with a sudden growl, he tugged her forward into his warm embrace.
"Wait." She twisted her head to break the kiss. "How do we know this is right?"
The god ran his knuckles along her cheek. "Does everything have to be right in your mind before you yield to needs of your body?"
His words made her shiver. What the man could do with his voice! "You say the fates have chosen our destiny, but would they really use Pyron to bring the two of us together?"
"The fates can create good things out of bad."
A tear leaked down her cheek. "Will you take me to see them?"
Hephaestus sighed. "There's not much to see, Amy."
"But I need to see it anyway."
He nodded his head. "Then you shall."
Hephaestus stood to one side, watching Amy absorb the horrors of her loss. Unaccustomed to the protective feelings overwhelming him, he crossed his arms over his chest and followed her with his eyes.
She knelt in the ashes and soot, sobs racking her body until Hephaestus could take no more of her pain. The sounds of her agony tore through his heart, nearly crippling him.
Coming to her side, he lifted her to her feet and pulled her into his embrace. Her head went to his shoulder, an automatic need for comfort. He caressed her hair and let her cry until no more tears would come. Then he tipped her face up with two fingers under her chin.
"Let's go home."
She sniffed and looked down at the ground. "I don't have a home anymore, Hephaestus."
"You do now." Lifting her in his arms, he shimmered in the air, cradling her all the way to his house.
Amy wound her arms around his neck. "I'm not sure I should be here."
He set her feet on the ground. "Then let me be sure for you." Brushing her hair away from her face, he touched his forehead to hers. "For now anyway."
Her acceptance came in the form of a smile.
Two weeks later
She'd grown to love him. The knowledge gave her pause in the garden as she walked among the burgeoning flowers and fresh new grass. How could it have happened so soon? Could she be sure what she felt was really love?
Tipping her face to the heat of the sun, she closed her eyes. When she was with him, she never wanted to leave, and when he was apart from her, she wondered when he would return. Always thinking about him. Always wanting him.
And when she whispered his name aloud, he was there, standing right behind her.
"Hello," he murmured in her ear. "Are you feeling better?" His arms curled around her waist, and she leaned back against his chest.
"A little. It is beautiful out here." His embrace did much more than comfort her; it solidified her belief in her heart. The love she felt for him enhanced each touch, each brush of his lips against her skin.
He turned her in his arms. "Will you stay, Amy?"
"Yes." It never occurred to her to say anything else.
Cupping the back of her head, he lowered his own. The kiss captivated her and while he held her in his thrall, he drew her closer, the thickness of his erection pushing against her thigh.
The wind began to stir, blowing the scent of jasmine into the air. A sumptuous bed of rose petals layered the ground as Hephaestus brought her down. She reached for him, but he lowered her hands.
"Not yet, baby. This time, I want to love you with more than just the part of me that makes me a man."
Tingles of anticipation skated up her spine and she squirmed atop the silky mattress. Hephaestus touched the tip of his fingers to the pulse point in her neck before slowly gliding it down the length of her body. As he worked, her clothes fell away, leaving her naked and vulnerable. And hot.
Her thighs fell open, inviting and wanton. Hephaestus chuckled low in his throat and kissed the skin just over the top of her belly button. And lower. Much lower. His hot breath bathed her mons and Amy's hands clenched amid the rose petals.
"So beautiful," he whispered, using his fingers to part the lips of her pussy. "So pink." Dipping his head, he gave an experimental lick. "And so sweet."
Amy's breath stalled in her throat. She'd died and gone to the Elysian Fields.
His tongue swirled around her clit and the muscles in her thighs jumped. He made animal noises in the back of his throat, lifting her legs to push her knees up against her chest to feed his voracious appetite.
"By the gods, you taste like ambrosia."
A scream seized her vocal cords as his tongue dived into her slick channel, teasing and stroking, whipping her muscles into a frenzy. He returned his attention to her clit, increasing the pressure, and the sensations were more than she could take.
The orgasm started slow, building and building until the scream erupted, and her body bucked of its own volition. Thrashing and whimpering, Amy clutched at the silky length of Hephaestus' hair. But his tongue kept up its pace, refusing to release her until the second release tore through her, bowing her back off the ground.
Weak and replete, her hands fell to the side of her body, her head turned to one side. Damp with perspiration, her hair clung to her face.
"Amy. My sweet, beautiful Amy." Hephaestus climbed up her body to lie beside her, his hand resting on her stomach. "You will stay here with me and together, we will build a life." He caressed her hair, her face as if he couldn't get enough of touching her.
Amy murmured her reply against his chest. "What you're saying sounds permanent."
His fingers slipped low over her abdomen, into the damp curls between her legs. "You have worked your way into my heart, and I never want you to leave." He flicked her clit.
"Isn't there some law against falling into love with a mortal?" Amy gasped, lifting her hips to invite further invasion of his questing digit.
"Perhaps, but I've never been one to play by the rules."
"So you're not concerned about the consequences with the other gods?"
Hephaestus lifted his head to fix her with a mock-stern look. "No, I'm not, and the only god you should be concerned about is the one in your arms."
Her hand cupped his hard cock straining against the rawhide pants. "I believe I can handle this one."
"Bless the fates."
BIO
Rachel is the published author of contemporary, fantasy and paranormal romances with small yet vibrant presses. She works full-time as a paralegal and is also the editor for a Publisher.
SEE MORE FROM THIS AUTHOR AT,
www.VenusPress.com

