Edie

Edie

SasatheShy

--

Chapter Nine: Confession

--

For Edie, the remaining few days in that week had passed rather quickly. She now faced herself in a large mirror provided by Tonisha. She stared on, feeling queasy, yet pretty as she looked over the gentle pink and red dress she had borrowed from Leigh’s saved clothes from when Leigh was younger. Only, thankfully this dress was not like the ones Leigh wore anymore. As soon as Leigh had heard that Edie had been invited to dinner by ‘the’ Captain Cain, she knew Edie had to wear only the best, and pitched right in to find this perfect dress. It curved nicely above, making Edie’s bosom seem larger than it actually was. And considering Leigh had a bit of a smaller bosom than her, it was quite lovely.

Made of cotton, the pinkish dress tugged at Edie’s stomach, making her seem skinnier. As it flowed downward, it waved out nicely. If Edie had the urge to twirl, the dress would gladly join her. The dress had long sleeves, going out to cover Edie’s wrists. The ends had white and red lacy frills, matching the collared design wrapping nicely around her neck, going down to her bosom.

Brown, leathered boots made for women covered Edie’s feet. The boots fitted well, also a gift from Leigh. Edie found them to be uncomfortable; however, Leigh claimed that the best of the best women that had what they desired wore them. And Cain was expecting the best of the best.

It made Edie sick to her stomach. Even her hair had been done nicely. She had bathed and brushed it, then, Leigh heartily tied a ribbon in her hair, making an adorable bow. She had even given Edie permission to borrow some of her well-scented body spray.

Edie smelled of flowers.

Of all things Edie had made herself do in order to ‘please‘ Cain, Edie had refused to put on make-up. It was the one thing she could not stand to wear. She did not openly admit it to Tonisha and Leigh, but she did not want to dress like a prostitute for Cain. How she appeared currently was all she was going to do.

It was not like she wanted to impress the man, anyway.

Sighing, Edie closed her eyes. She took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. Her hands closed around her stomach as she hugged herself.

“You can do this,” she told herself. “It’s nothing more but dinner. Nothing more.”

Opening her eyes, Edie took a final glance in the mirror. Though she stood there beautiful and fair, she expressed this sadness that made her seem like a lost doll. Not wanting to, she slowly turned on her heels, ready to face her nightmare.

--

Edie stepped out of the manager quarters. The place was packed. She frowned. They could have used her. It was the weekend. But Tonisha had insisted she do this. Groaning, Edie looked about, soon spotting Tonisha and Leigh chatting near the entrance. Edie took another deep breath as she walked forward to join them. The moment they had caught her glimpse, both jumped with excitement and rushed to her sides.

“You look so beautiful,” said Tonisha as she took Edie’s hand. She gaped. “Your hand is shaking like a leaf. Nervous?”

“Very,” Edie whispered.

“Oh, but you have nothing to be nervous about,” giggled Leigh. She admired the dress and sighed, remembering what it was like when she was Edie’s age. “Captain Cain has offered you an opportunity of a lifetime. An opportunity any girl would love to have.”

'Not this girl', thought Edie. She stood with them next to the main door. Cain was supposed to come and bring her to his home. She was already in pain, thanks to the damned boots. She was sort of hoping in her head that Cain was coming on horseback so she didn’t have to walk.

“That man is late,” Tonisha complained. “The bastard. I knew this would happen.”

“Don’t rush him,” Leigh smiled. “I’m sure he’s on his way.”

The captain was late. Edie felt almost glad on the inside. Perhaps he would not show? Perhaps he had more important things to do? This thought made Edie smile. She’d be able to change out of the ridiculous dress and back into her natural dress. She’d be able to put on her apron and cook for the customers…

“Well,” she began, just as the front door opened.

Cain entered, making Edie’s face drop. She bowed her head as Tonisha gave Cain a stern glare.

“You’re late,” she noted.

Chuckling, Cain closed the door and grinned at Tonisha. “I was trying to make a grand entrance. However, I can now see that I’ve failed.” Turning his head, Cain locked on to his target. He nearly lost control… A part of him did as his lips slipped open.

Stunning! Edie was absolutely stunning! He could hardly believe that that was her hiding beneath such a well-sewn dress. He almost had not recognized her, if not for her natural, glowing face. He somewhat felt undressed, for he was wearing his uniform, as usual. It marked his symbol, and he hardly wore anything else.

“Well, well,” he gleamed as he stepped over to Edie, circling her. “You cleaned up nicely.”

Edie went red. She folded her hands in front of her, trying hard not to stare Cain in the eyes.

“We helped,” Leigh said happily. “I found her the dress and helped her with her hair.”

“Did you, now?” asked Cain. “Well, you did a good job on her. She looks proper.”

Leigh stood proud.

Tonisha eyed Edie. She cocked her head to the left, trying to view the girl’s eyes. “Edie? Is there anything you’d like to say to Captain Cain?”

Trying hard not to shake, Edie slowly faced Cain. She gave a short bow and softly said, “Thank you for inviting me to dinner.”

He knew this had been difficult for her to do. It made him cackle on the inside. Slowly, he lifted her chin in front of Tonisha and Leigh, knowing that with them there, she could not do anything to stop him. He could feel her shaking, just from his gentle touch. He smiled genuinely down at her. “You are most welcome. Come, let us go.”

Gulping, Edie turned to Tonisha and Leigh. They gave her reassuring smiles. Leigh even added a nod as Cain took Edie’s hand in his. Edie had no choice but to accept it. She was led outside. It was surprisingly warm, considering it had blizzard only two days ago. The ground was dry and the air felt nice against Edie’s skin.

She kept her eyes off of Cain, looking around for any sign of horse or carriage. However, she saw none, and realized they had to walk. She followed alongside him down the streets of Forter, doing best not to groan out loud.

Cain eyed Edie as they walked side by side. He noticed she was struggling to walk in those boots she wore. “My home is not far.”

Edie looked up at him. She faced her head forward, hiding an incoming blush.

“Where do you live, anyway?” she found herself asking, causing a hand to quickly cover her mouth. Only, Cain found this amusing, for he began laughing.

“At the very edge of town,” he answered. “Do not worry. You will know it when you see it.”

This remark caused Edie to wrinkle her nose. Who did Cain think he was? She sighed as she was led far along the road, entering a part of Forter she’s not had the pleasure of seeing… Buildings surrounding her started becoming larger. Lesser people walked the streets in these parts. Some of them seemed to be dressed more fancier than Edie’s ever seen. She gaped in awe, seeing a woman and man hand in hand.. The man wore this crafty brown suit, and the woman had a long, puffy violet dress that resembled a cake.

“Where are we?” she asked Cain.

“Impressed?” he concluded.

Saying nothing more, Edie bowed her head, feeling embarrassed. Why was she even bothering asking Cain these questions? Why should she feel impressed? She only wanted this night to end. Fast!

“Well,” Cain continued, whether Edie was interested or not. “You should be. This part of Forter is only for those that work for wealth.”

He soon stopped walking, causing Edie to look up at him. She blinked, taking a look around. She soon gaped in awe at the structure before her. A massive building made of rocky material she’s never witnessed stood there, shiny and brilliant. She took notice of the fancy oak doors. Compared to this home, she felt small as a mouse.

“T -- this is your home?” she squeaked.

“It is,” Cain proudly claimed. He smiled. “Of course, as the ruler of this town, I get the greatest. Not just best.”

Immediately, Edie’s eyes widened, and she turned her attention on Cain. “Ruler?”

“Yes,” Cain said. “I run this town.. And many smaller ones.”

Edie clutched her stomach, feeling nauseous. This man? This horrible, horrible man? He controlled these people? These markets and homes and Pig‘s Thigh Inn?

Him?

“Anything the matter?” Cain asked, watching Edie eerily. He was doing best not to grin. He was certain he knew how she was feeling. Her response to his answer was perfectly clear, though he did not want to make her upset. Dinner awaited them, after all. “Come, let’s go inside. It’s starting to get chilly out.”

Though astonished by this sudden news, Edie was growing cold. Her right foot moved forward as she found herself following behind Cain floatingly to avoid keeping outside. She also was interested in being inside this great place. Never in all her life had she seen anything as remarkable as this home…

And the inside was just as superb.

Edie stood as Cain wiped his feet. She copied him, shivering a bit as he retook her hand. She was led down grand hallway after hallway. The place was a maze, and if not for Cain, Edie surely would have gotten lost. Every wall looked the same, as did all doors leading into mysterious rooms. Edie was certain the place had more than one toiletry and more than one kitchen.

Every hallway was empty. This made Edie feel frightened. She continually glanced up at Cain, being cautious. He may be acting courteously at the moment, but she knew he could strike at her like a snake at any given second -- just like seven years ago.

“Here we are,” he soon said, halting in front of an open doorway. Edie peered in, surprised to find what rested inside.

There, sitting in the dead center of a large, elegant room was a made-up small table covered in a white tablecloth. Atop it sat two fine plates, utensils, cleaning cloths, and an unlit blue candle.

“W -- what is this?” she choked.

“Our setting for dinner,” Cain plainly answered. He led her inside and over to the finely set table.

Pulling out a chair, Cain smile at Edie. “Please sit?”

Thinking about it for a second, Edie soon walked forward and accepted the seat. A startled squeak caught in her throat as Cain scooted her chair in for her.

“Thank you,” she murmured.

“You are most welcome,” said Cain. He stood back, admiring her from where he stood. “I am going to go fetch our dinner. Please wait here.” He then turned and left Edie alone.

As Edie solely sat there, roaming her eyes over the well-decorated setting, she could not help but ponder Cain’s actions. She wanted to know why he had gone to such trouble, especially for her. She knew she was not so important. And she doubted that he thought she was. After all, she came from a small village. Cain admitted it was nothing. He had a black heart. He treated any he pleased ruthlessly. He was a murderer.

Would he care if she felt welcomed?

She groaned, placing her hands over her face. A part of her told her to flee, but she knew she’d get lost in this grand place. Another part of her told her to cry, but Cain could return at any second. No. She’d have to deal with this. Though it confused her, she did feel hungry, and she had promised Tonisha and Leigh she’d behave for -- the captain.

An unfamiliar scent reached Edie’s nose, then. Sniffing, she turned, seeing Cain return with a large tray. It rolled on a set of wheels. Placed on its surface rested silvery kitchenware. A covered bowl and a large covered tray. Edie kept quiet as Cain rolled the tray next to the table. There also sat a large bottle filled with a red liquid. Next to it was two clear glasses, small and round. And finally, a small little box painted red was alone in a corner of the tray on wheels.

“Dinner is served,” bowed Cain. He removed the lids, revealing foreign foods to Edie’s awed eyes. “Delicious duck with creamy yellow rice mixed with greens.”

“Duck?” Edie gaped. “Rice?”

“I figured since you’re a cook, that I’d show you what people of my stature get to enjoy,” Cain grinned. He cut thin slices of meat off the baked duck. He placed a nice piece on Edie’s plate and on his own. He then used a large spoon to scoop the rice, giving them good portions.

“And then, I give you fine red wine… I am the only man in all of town gifted with this delectable alcoholic beverage.”

“Oh,” Edie gaped. She wasn’t one for drinking alcohol. However, not wanting to be rude, she nodded as Cain poured her a small amount in one of the two glasses.

“Do not drink it too fast,” he warned. He took a match, at that time, and set it ablaze. He lit the candle, enjoying Edie’s reaction to the flame. He then joined her at the table.

Edie looked down at her plate. Steam lifted from the two new foods, filling her nostrils and making her mouth water. It all looked so delicious. Slowly, she eyed the final thing on the tray. The small box. She turned her eyes over to Cain. “What about that?”

“That is a surprise for after dinner,” Cain said. “Please eat.”

Feeling quite hungry all of a sudden, Edie picked up her utensil. He was watching her, though, overjoyed by her childlike interest in the new food. He watched her gather up some of the rice. She brought it to her nose and gently whiffed the rice, curious by its intoxicating smell. She opened her mouth, but then closed it. She looked up at Cain, nearly glaring at him.

“What?” he asked. “I guarantee you that it is not poisoned.”

Gaping, Edie lowered her utensil. She nervously shook as Cain sighed. “Oh, for Heaven’s sake…” He leaned forward, dodging the lit candle and catching Edie off guard as he snagged some rice off her plate. He dropped it into his mouth, chewed, and swallowed. He then grinned. “There. You see? Now you take a bite.”

Actually feeling convinced, Edie lifted her utensil again. She slowly placed it in her mouth and let the creamy rice slide onto her tongue. She was greeted with amazing flavors. The rice was fluffy, yet creamy.. She hinted some garlic and new spices. Chewing, she swallowed and turned pink .

“It’s good,” she whispered.

“I am glad you approve,” Cain chuckled. “I didn’t make it, of course, but I admire my personal chefs.”

Edie wanted to try the duck next. She cut off a side piece and put it in her mouth. The duck melted in her mouth, falling apart wonderfully. It was so good. She ate her meal happily, ignoring the fact that Cain sat opposite of her, watching her with delight.

He smiled as he stirred his rice. “You must really be a food expert.”

Pausing, Edie slowly looked up at Cain.

“I am sure you are proud,” he went on, watching her knuckles tense. “Tell me, how exactly did you end up working for Tonisha?”

Dropping her utensil, Edie immediately paled.

“I am sorry,” Cain faked. “Have I hit a soft spot?”

Shaking in her seat, Edie looked down at her food, tantalized to weep. But this did not stop Cain.

“Forgive me,” he said. “I am just -- amazed by you, Edie. I truly am interested in your story. If you wish, you do not have to tell me.”

He could always ask Tonisha.

To the captain’s surprise, and utmost joy, he would not have to. He watched Edie’s head lift. She yet again was strong enough to not lose control of herself. Her eyes still were dry, and her lips were not quivering.

“I --” she began, pausing for a mere second. She sat up straight, focusing her eyes on Cain’s plate of food. “I -- have Kelli to thank…”

“Kelli?”

“Yes,” said Edie. “She -- took me in. She knew Tonisha -- somehow… Anyway, thanks to her, I met Tonisha and became her cook.”

“Hmm…” Cain leaned back, clearly interested. “Where does this Kelli reside?”

Wiping at her nose, Edie sighed. “Inkton. She owns the shelter there. She --” Edie paused. She quickly looked up at Cain. “I -- I don’t want to talk about this anymore.”

Leaning back, Cain softly whispered, “Very well.”

The two finished their meal in silence. Cain had not pried Edie further on the subject of her survival. He merely enjoyed her presence. Scooping up the final bits of rice on his plate, he took a final bite.

“I am curious,” he said once Edie had finished eating. “Do you, by chance, care to dance?”

Edie looked up at Cain. Her mouth fell open. “Dance?”

Setting down his utensil, he wiped at his mouth with his cloth napkin without removing his eyes from Edie. Using his tongue to clean at his teeth, Cain placed his dirty napkin next to his plate and pushed out his chair. He stood to his feet. Walking around the table, he helped Edie scoot her chair back and took her hand. She had started to shake again, which was irritating him.

“Join me,” he said.

“I -- I don’t know how,” Edie whispered as she stood.

“Dancing is simple,” Cain stated. “I shall teach you.”

“W -- wait..” Edie squeaked. She was shushed as Cain took her to the back of the room. Edie looked to the exit. She slowly peered up at Cain. “Are we the only ones here?”

“No,” he answered, being truthful. “There are some guards around, and my cooks are still in the kitchen.”

“Okay,” Edie said. She sounded thankful. If Cain dared try anything, she knew she could run and find help.

He had her face him, making her tremble. She stared into his eyes as his arms had hers come up around his neck.

“You hold me here,” he told her. Then, he placed his own arms around her waist, making her gasp. “Relax… I’m doing nothing more but teaching. My hands go here.” Cain knew more difficult dances, of course, but with Edie, he wanted it simple and slow.

With pretend music surrounding them, Cain and Edie slowly began moving in a circle. Edie kept her eyes focused on Cain’s chest, realizing this strange feeling aching in her heart was returning. It was again attempting to escape her. The heat was almost unbearable. She certainly felt ablaze. Cain’s neck was warm and smooth, which made Edie’s hands robotically grip closer to his skin, holding on tightly. Edie seemed to have no knowledge of this happening, for her eyes had dreamily shut. Cain had been honest with her. Dancing was quite simple. It was almost fun. It made her smile faintly.

There was no sound, except an occasional patter coming either from Edie’s or Cain’s boots. The pleasant smells from their dinner still filtered the room. The candle was still burning brightly, only having little wax melted.

Cain was taking this opportunity to further admire Edie’s beauty. She’s bloomed wondrously. Though adorable, she showed this small amount of elegance. Not only that, but she had proved to Cain that she is as powerful as he is, even if she had little of anything. She was not weak, which Cain admired.

“Mm..” he sighed. “Have I yet told you how beautiful you look?”

With her hips still moving, Edie’s head jolted upward. She stared straight at Cain, stunned by this. “I -- I --”

“You are,” Cain continued. “Very beautiful. I never pictured you in this way before, Edie. I supposed I never took notice… You have soft skin. You have soft, curly hair. Your eyes --” he paused, knowing he was making her uncomfortable. Slowly, he stopped moving, making her stop, too. She still stared up at him, which made him stare frozen at her for some seconds.

Soon, he lifted a hand, brushing it through her hair. He made her gasp and shiver, but he noticed that her reaction to his movement was unordinary.

Had she liked that?

“Your smile,” he whispered. “Though I’ve only seen a glimpse just now -- it was still beautiful.”

Turning pink, Edie trembled. “N -- n…”

Just then, Cain smiled. He gave a true, genuine, genial smile. It made Edie’s mind grow fuzzy. She pushed away, placing her hands on her forehead. She felt sweaty and strange. She quickly turned her back to him, thankful that he was not touching her any further. Slowly, she started walking back over to the table. She heard him following behind her.

“I -- had dinner with you,” Edie said, gulping. “I think you should take me back now.”

“I will,” Cain said. “But not until you’ve had dessert.”

Blinking, Edie slowly looked up at Cain. She watched as he took the secret box sitting on the large tray. He stood before her, holding it out. “Go ahead. Open it.”

Scared, Edie stared down at the closed box. She moved a single hand out, and pinched her pointer finger and thumb against the pretty red ribbon. She pulled at it like a string, making it come undone. She held the ribbon as Cain lifted the box.

Inside rested many small black circles. Edie eyed them suspiciously. “W -- what are those?”

“A far greater delicacy than any duck or rice,” Cain smiled. “I figured I’d let you try one. They’re called chocolates.”

“Chocolates?” asked Edie.

Cain slowly picked a chocolate up between his fingers. He inched it towards Edie’s mouth.. “Yes. Try one…”

Impulse told Edie to close her mouth.. She did, making Cain pout bluntly.

“Come now,” he said. “Just try one. Then, I will take you back to the inn.”

Wanting to get back, Edie unsurely opened her mouth wide, not taking her eyes off of Cain, nor the chocolate. She gained a grin as he put his fingers into her mouth, setting the chocolate on her tongue.

Closing her mouth, Edie’s eyes widened with interest as the chocolate began melting. The taste was exotic, rich, and amazing. She’s never tasted anything like it. It was sweet and desperately made her want to moan. She stared up at Cain, seeing that he was grinning at her.

“Good?” he examined.

Slowly, Edie nodded her head. She finished eating it, craving another. She eyed the little box as Cain ate one of the chocolates.

“Go ahead,” he whispered. “Have another.”

Accepting his offer, Edie took another chocolate. She watched as Cain closed the box. She popped the second chocolate into her mouth as the closed box was set back on the tray.

“The rest I’ll save,” said Cain. “You never know when I might ask you to dinner again.”

Edie took a step back, wanting to enjoy her second chocolate. She did not want to have dinner with this man again. At least, she was sure she did not. The entire night had not been what she had expected. She had expected herself to be miserable, scared, hurt, and angry. She expected to hate the dinner. She -- wasn’t fooling herself. The dinner had been delicious. The dancing had been enjoyable. The chocolates -- she could die for another.

And Cain -- curse the man! He had been -- different all evening. He had not harmed her in any way. He was rude, as he always was, but not in the way she had remembered from her past. He had treated her with some respect, even, and this was the only thing that had frightened her during dinner.

With the final bits of chocolate melting in her mouth, Edie lowered her head. “I -- would like to go back now. Please..?”

“Very well,” Cain said as he took her hand. “You’ve kept your part of our bargain, here. I shall keep mine. Come.”

--

The sight of Pig’s Thigh Inn made Edie’s night. She looked up at Cain as he opened the door. He turned to her, smiling. “After you.”

Upset that he was going to join her inside, Edie stepped into the inn. He did follow right behind her, and upon doing so, he did not notice that they were being watched.

Aleah stood on the opposite side of the inn. She stood there examining some shawls. Her sister had done as Cain told of her. She had taken Aleah out shopping, and now she was some blocks down, flirting with the fat, sweaty baker. Aleah looked down at Verity, realizing her sister had not noticed Cain walking into Pig’s Thigh Inn with that mysterious young lady.

For now, Aleah decided that this would be her little secret.

--

The inn had emptied. There was no sight of Tonisha nor Leigh, so Edie figured they had to be entertaining guests upstairs. She frowned at this, hoping they had been there to wait for her return. It was a bit late, though. She had not realized she had been gone for this long.

“Well,” she whispered, turning to Cain. She did not look up at him. She kept her head down, since she could now.

“I wish to walk you to your room,” Cain interrupted. “It is the proper thing for a man to do.”

Edie gaped. She frowned. “I -- I wish to check on the kitchen.”

“Alright then, I shall walk you to the kitchen.”

He went out to reach for her hand, but she folded her fingers together. She heard him snarl slightly, but he fixed himself up as he followed alongside her.

When they got to the kitchen, it was empty. Edie looked about, seeing that her assistant cooks had done well without her. The place was cleaned up, and they all surely had headed for home. Amana must be in bed, too. Sighing, Edie slowly faced Cain. “This -- is far enough.”

“Yes,” Cain whispered, but he did not leave. Looking down at his feet, Cain balanced against his heels, momentarily thinking about their situation. He looked to her and smiled. “Edie, before I take my leave, there is something I -- I have to tell you.”

Hearing this frightened Edie. However, a part of her was also curious. She managed to keep her attention focused on him, waiting for what he had to say.

“Tonight,” he began. “Tonight was one of the best nights I’ve had in a very long time. Lately, it’s seemed as if I’ve been losing my touch. Work’s been hell. People have been hell. No one seems to understand. It’s been putting a lot of pressure on me, and I’ve been having this strange feeling that -- that I was falling.”

‘When I returned to Forter, I was expecting the worst. But then something happened. Something that I was not expecting…”

Drifting, Cain’s expression changed. He began showing this softer side that made Edie fear him even more. It made her unsure of this weird circumstance. Strangely enough, she did not have the urge to run away. Instead, she straightened her gaze, not escaping this peculiar difference in Cain.

“W -- what happened?” she found herself asking softly. This gained Cain’s attention, for he soon was staring straight back at her. Stiffly, Edie stared back.

“You…” he exhaled gently.

Lifting his hands, Cain cupped Edie’s cheeks, causing her to become petrified. She could not look away as his face inched towards hers.

“You happened, Edie,” he alluded. “I saw you again… I saw what you’ve become, thanks to me.”

It was then that Edie’s lips began quivering. She felt warm tears leaving her eyes, dripping down to touch the skin on Cain’s cool hands. He used his thumbs to wipe at her tears. He began smiling at her, but it was that terrifying smile she remembered.

“I never imagined I’d see you again,” he went on. “Back then, you were nothing more but trash to me… I saw you and I thought you were a lovely girl… I craved you, then, but now I -- crave you in a different way…”

Edie began whimpering. She tried blinking back tears, but had only caused more to spill. She lifted her hands, ready to push him away from her. Her dark nightmare was returning. The visions and smells… His touches. The pain.

“Stop…” she begged.

“Shush,” he gnarled. Edie cried as her back hit the counter. She sniffed as Cain kept hold of her cheeks. “Please, Edie, I have to say this... I may not get this opportunity again -- for some time.” He smiled again, wiping more of her tears. His fingers rested in her hair as he looked down at her.

“You are so beautiful,” he said. “Why did I not notice this before?” He leaned down, now closer to her still. “Edie -- you are not like other women. I respect you because -- because you are brave, strong, and -- special. You are not weak… And for that I -- Edie…”

Cain took a moment’s pause, sensing Edie’s hatred. He did not care. He found her enchanting, and he needed to confess. “Edie -- I love you…”

Bawling, Edie’s eyes went wide. She had not expected this. A heaviness pushed down on her heart. Her stomach began twisting in knots as she took in this unnatural information.

“No…” she whimpered.

“Yes,” he sighed. “I love you, Edie --”

Pushing forward, Cain pressed his lips against hers. He began to kiss her ravishingly. He could hear her squealing like she had the first time he forced his tongue down her throat. But he did not care. He needed her lips to play with his. Her touch and her taste. It brought out the insanity within him. Yes. It was her own damn fault for releasing his monstrous side.

At that moment, Edie was finally able to close her eyes. She was able to shake her head as his tongue licked and twirled around her own. Her hands grasped the counter edge behind her.. The fuzzy feeling from before began taking her over. She wanted to fight it so bad. It was powerful… But she could not allow it to win.

No…

The feeling was winning. Her body began heating up. It began making her feel as she had when she sat with Lavan only two days ago at the table. A brand new sensation that scared her. But before the sensation could further alarm her, Cain, to her shock, pulled away.

Standing tall, Cain licked at his lips. He stared down at Edie, hinting her sorrowful expression. She was staring straight ahead, looking out at nothing. It was as if she had fainted standing up. This made Cain grin.

“I will go now,” he whispered to her. “I do not expect an answer from you right away, of course. You may want some time to consider this… But I shall warn you right now, Edie -- I will not give you up so easily.”

He gave her moist cheek a gentle peck. He moaned as he stared deep into her eyes. "I shall have you again."

As Cain turned to leave, Edie shakily fell to the floor. She brought her knees up to her chest and hugged herself close as she watched Cain leave her kitchen. Just as soon as he had gone, Edie broke. Tears flooded from her eyes, dripping on her arms as she lowered her head. Her mouth fell open as she shut her eyes. A long, drawn-out wail left her as she sat there; alone and afraid.

Cain had done well. He eyed her just from the corner, grinning. He turned and headed back upstairs, but he, himself, had not realized that he, too, was being watched.

Once the captain had disappeared upstairs, Lavan came out from around the corner. Frowning, he stepped into the kitchen. He found Edie there, sobbing loudly. He unsurely walked over to her, not delighted about her appearance. She was dressed beautifully, and he knew why. Tonight had been her dinner with Cain. Perhaps that is why he had been down there? Did he make her cry? Lavan felt a familiar anger reaching him.

Slowly, he knelt in front of her. She had her face covered in her arms. Taking a deep breath, he reached out, willing to touch her. He was not sure if this was a good idea or not, but -- he had this odd tickle that she needed him.

He gently put his hand on her arm. “Edie?”

Gasping, Edie quickly looked up, seeming terrified. She had thought Lavan had been Cain returning to finish the job. But upon seeing Lavan kneeling there, wearing his usual hunting attire, Edie began wiping at her tears, relived. “L -- Lavan… W -- what are you doing down here?”

Turning red, Lavan slowly sighed. “Well, I was actually -- staying up to make sure your -- night went well. I was waiting by your bedroom door.”

Edie’s tears began disappearing as she heard this news. He had been waiting up for her? “W -- why?”

“Well,” he sighed. “I was a bit worried about you, I guess. I mean -- when I see you around Captain Cain, you always seem sad. I guess -- I guess I just wanted to make sure you’d be okay. I suppose you aren’t, though. Why are you crying?”

Worried? Edie thought. She slowly was helped to her feet. She looked down, seeing her hand in Lavan’s. That feeling came to her again. A warm, delightful fuzziness. Her stomach was grumbling, though it was not hungry. And she had this strange, wondrous feeling building up inside her.

“You -- were really worried about me?” she asked.

Blushing, Lavan nodded his head. “Well, yes. I was…” While he watched her arms cross in front of her chest, Lavan wished he could read her mind. She was more mysterious than the stars. Lavan wanted to help her figure herself out.. He wanted her to accept him and talk to him.

“Edie,” he whispered. “Did he hurt you?”

“I…” Edie began, finding her voice cracking. She wept as she shook her head. She looked away from him, closing her eyes.

“Please,” Lavan said, taking her chin again. “Stop looking away from me, Edie…” He forced her head to turn.. He could not force her eyes to part, but to his relief, they slid open and stared back at him.

Breathing heavily to avoid crying any further, Edie sniffed. “I --”

“What?”

“I -- can’t…”

“Can’t what?” Lavan asked. “Please Edie.. Tell me.”

“No --” Edie cried, bringing her hands up to cover her face. “I can’t -- take this anymore! Why are you doing this to me?”

Wanting to calm her, Lavan placed his hands on her shoulders in a reassuring manner. “Edie, what are you talking about?”

“You…!” she shrieked. She looked up at him, showing a sad rage. “You -- why are you d -- doing this to me!”

Unsure how to react, Lavan tried acting calm. He did not want to further upset Edie. “Edie --”

“When I’m around you…” she cried. “When I see you and hear you… I can’t take it. I can’t take this feeling I have when I’m around you. And when I’m not around you, it somehow feels worse. I -- I see you in -- my head -- you and him…! I see him and I cringe… But -- but when I see you, I --” she drifted. Lowering her head, she shook it, making teardrops fly off her face. “Why?”

Lavan understood. Hearing her shouting out her emotions was music to his ears. He couldn’t help but smile, even though she was still crying strongly, not seeming close to even stopping. He reached his hand out, cupping her cheek. He watched as his sudden touch made her shoulders lift. He was certain he heard a moan surpass her cries.

“Why is my body reacting this way?” she whimpered. She looked up at him. She saw his smile. It made her shudder in a good way.

“No more, Edie,” Lavan soon said. He leaned towards her. “Just -- let it…”

Gasping, Edie fell still as Lavan kissed her. A part of her told her to panic, however, this kiss was different from the one she had received from Cain. This kiss was soft, soothing, and exhilarant. Edie found herself pushing into it. She could feel herself enjoying it. Though few warm droplets still drizzled down her cheeks, this sudden kiss made Edie feel safe and comforted. She began calming as his strong, protective arms wrapped around her body, pulling her close.

A moment ago, Edie had witnessed her fear. She had once feared that all men acted like Captain Cain. But now -- now she had her lips locked with chapped, gentle lips belonging to another man. And this man seemed to not want to harm her. He was giving her what only a real man could. He was giving her comfort. And this comfort he was giving her was driving her insane.

Now, Edie knew that Lavan was not like Cain. He was far better, and without her consent, her body began craving more than just a kiss.