Welcome to

For the rest of the week, Jack was a prisoner of his own body. Try as he might, he was helpless as his body did the chores Ash gave him. The best way for him to pass time was to simply stop thinking, that allowed him to pass time faster, allowed him to ignore the pain and bruises his body was getting. Ash wasn’t completely cruel, though.

She always instructed him to eat and drink as well as sleep and bathe. Sleeping was something Jack had mixed thoughts about. In his dreams, he had complete control of his body again. In his dreams, he wasn’t enslaved to a vampire. In his dreams, all of this was nothing more than a simple nightmare.

One night, as Jack was getting ready for his bath, his body getting naked automatically, he froze and nearly toppled over, moving his hands over his face. He gasped, relishing each breath he took, the pain he felt; it was proof that it was over. He was free! Thank the gods!

He struggled to his feet, wincing at how the muscles in his arms and legs protested his movements. He leaned against the wall, catching his breath. “Dear gods,” he wheezed, blinking back tears, “that was awful…”

He couldn’t stop himself. Jack wasn’t proud of this, but he cried for a bit in the bathroom, kept crying as he washed himself in the tub. The water and soap did a good job washing away the dirt and sweat, but it couldn’t wash away everything. Never again. Never again.

The door opened without warning, and Jack yelped and backed off to the farthest edge of the tub. He relaxed slightly when he saw it wasn’t Ash, but was instead Atticus. “Mistress said you would’ve woken up by now.”

“I broke free of her control a bit ago,” Jack growled. “What are you here for?”

Atticus grinned, placing a towel by Jack. “Mistress said she wanted to see you after your bath.” He laughed when he saw Jack pale slightly. “Ah… I was wondering how well you’d be able to hide that.”

“Think I’m afraid of her?” Jack asked, his voice pathetically high pitched.

“Mistress Ash told all of us what happened on your first night,” Atticus replied, not bothering to hide his laugh, “some of the other servants also couldn’t help but hear you. I’d drop that little act of yours. At least if you want to continue living.”

Jack said nothing, his throat suddenly dry. He wasn’t surprised this happened, but he wasn’t happy that everyone here seemed to know what happened. Atticus shook his head before he got up to leave.

“Don’t keep Mistress waiting,” he said, “given what happened last time, I doubt you want to make her upset.”

Jack finished washing up a few minutes later, grabbing the spare clothes Atticus gave him. The pajamas he gave him fit perfectly this time, not like the oversized ones he had the first night. He turned up the collar on his nightshirt before he left. It wouldn’t do anything to stop her, and Jack knew he couldn’t do anything if she attacked him again, but it helped him feel slightly better.

Please, dear gods, Jack thought as he left the bathroom, please don’t let her enthrall me again. Jack’s heart was pounding as he walked over to her room. Not again. Please. Ashildyr, please watch over me.

He opened her door, expecting her to be on him instantly.

Ash was just finishing putting on the same coat she wore a week ago when Jack came in. She glanced at him lazily before finishing up the last of her buttons. “Good to see you back to yourself,” she said unenthusiastically, “you were such a bore the past week.”

Ash turned to look at him, and Jack fought the urge to take a step back. Ash tilted her head to the side before walking over to him, her bare feet silent against her carpet. She got close, a bit too close for Jack’s comfort.

She reached out, drawing back his collar, Jack sucked in a breath through clenched teeth. “Relax,” she ordered, “I’m not here to feed on you, today is Erik’s turn.”

Ash walked around him, her scarlet eyes probing him. Occasionally, she reached out to prod him, taking interest in his arms and back. Jack managed to suppress the urge to make any noise, although it didn’t stop him from flinching each time he felt her touch. Almost every time she touched him, every second she spent looking at him, Jack couldn’t help but remember her fangs biting into him.

It was a battle to keep his breathing steady. To keep his heart calm, although how effective that was against a vampire, Jack wasn’t sure. He also wasn’t sure how much longer he could keep this up. Slowly, he could feel his will leaving him.

Finally, she came face to face with him again, her expression neutral when she said. “You seem fine. I was checking to see if all the work you did left any kind of injuries.”

Jack nodded, not trusting his voice.

“Is there anything you’d like to say right now?” Ash asked.

Abyss take you! Jack stayed silent, staring straight ahead. He made it a point not to look in her eyes, looking at her ear instead.

Ash blinked, tilting her head again, clearly unimpressed. “Very well, if that’s how it is then so be it.” She walked away from him. “As a gift from me, feel free to spend the night here. The servants say they find it easier to sleep here than in their rooms.”

“Alright,” Jack managed, his voice not sounding like his own.

Ash glanced at him, looking bored, before leaving her room.

Jack released a breath he didn’t know he was holding before collapsing on the floor, his legs no longer able to support him. Dear gods, thank you! he thought. He hugged himself, his teeth chattering as a sudden cold came over him. She didn’t do anything other than touch him, why then, was he so scared?

He was more than scared, he was terrified, his heart pounding in his chest, his eyes darting everywhere. Why then, did he also enjoy this? His erection stood out prominently in his pajama pants, and it was there since she started circling him. He was glad she didn’t mention it, he might have collapsed in front of her right then and there. He couldn’t do that again. He wouldn’t do that again.

Jack got up, making his way over to her bed. As much as he hated doing so, it might not be a good idea to make her angry, and he wasn’t sure if turning this opportunity down would upset her. The covers were nice and soft, and he was warm as soon as he laid down. Gave him some comfort, allowed his body to calm down. He was surprised to notice a small wooden sculpture of a plump naked woman sitting crosslegged on Ash’s nightstand. Ralah, the Mother. Strange, Jack wouldn’t have thought a vampire would be pray to the gods, much less Ralah.

No matter. He doubted she truly believed in her. Although… the fact the statuette didn’t have any effect on her was concerning to say the least. Thoughts for another day. For now, he was tired.
What will I do now? He wondered, looking over to her door, Not sure if trying to escape is a good idea, she’ll definitely be able to find me now.
He sighed, his eyelids suddenly feeling heavy. I guess I’ll think about this when I wake up. Sleep soon claimed him.

Jack woke up with a start, the sound of a door closing causing him to sit up. Ash returned. She looked up as she entered her room, her jacket slightly undone, “Ah, I wasn’t sure if you’d be sleeping here.”

“I found it easier to sleep here,” Jack replied, “I was too tired to get to my room.”

Ash made a non-committal sound, “Well I’m afraid it’s time for you to leave. It’s nine in the morning and I’m tired.”

Jack nodded, “I see, is there anything I need to do?”

“It’s your day off today,” Ash replied, “do whatever you want. Leave the manor if you want, although I recommend you return before nightfall, otherwise I’ll just have to assume the worst.”

“Alright.”

Ash shook her head as she stripped off her clothes. Jack straightened up, gawking as her jacket and shirt came away. She had her back to him, but he was still able to glance at her breasts as the shirt came off, and he’d be lying if he said he didn’t appreciate the way she moved, slowly and with purpose. He briefly saw her shoulder blades as her black hair was pulled up along with her shirt, he appreciated the way they moved, the strength in them. Ash moved to undo her pants before turning in his direction, she frowned when she saw his gaze, “Do you need something?”

Jack looked away.

“Nice to see what spending a week enthralled taught you,” Ash sneered, “if you don’t need anything then get out.”

“Yes mistress.” Jack whimpered before hurrying towards the door.

He let out a sigh of relief when he closed the door behind him. The hallway was empty, good, he’d rather not anyone see the massive erection in his pants. He had the whole day to himself, there had to be something he could do.

---

He had enough being outside, even if it wasn’t his choice to be out there, so Jack decided to take a look at the library. Unfortunately for him, the library wasn’t empty. Samantha, the maid of the manor, was sitting in one of the chairs when he entered. She lit up when he came in.

“Ah, looks like you finally got over being enthralled!” Samantha greeted.

Jack nodded.

Samantha got up, walking towards him eagerly.

Jack had met most of the other servants while he was enthralled, most of them tended to ignore him, often shooting him dirty looks whenever he came by. Samantha, however, took advantage of his enthralled state to cop a feel several times, laughing when Jack barely acknowledged her touch.

Jack took a step back when Samantha drew close to him. I’m not scared, Jack told himself, just cautious. Unlike Ash, Samantha was human and was shorter and slimmer than him as well. Blonde hair framed her face and went down to the middle of her back, and she made a point to sway her hips as she walked over to him.

She had a similar look in her eyes that Ash had when she first saw him in the cage. That’s what made Jack nervous. Made his breathing heavy, made his heart pound. He swallowed, “Something I can help you with?”

Samantha shrugged and drew back, “Just wondering how you think your first week went?”

“Not something I would want to happen again.”

Samantha chuckled, “Well, I’m afraid that’s your own fault for trying to kill her. I’m amazed she decided not to kill you,” Samantha giggled before continuing, “you should have heard her after she came out of your room, I was worried she’d break something!”

Jack shivered.

Samantha drew close again, startling Jack and nearly causing him to trip over, “I can see she’s left quite the impression on you, hasn’t she?”

Jack growled, “Get away from me!”

Samantha stepped away, still smiling, “Oh! Still have some fight in you, huh?”

Jack tried to compose himself, although that was hard to do considering he was shivering from the thought of Ash being angry. Didn’t help that Samantha shared the same smile, although she lacked the fangs. “Stay away from me.” Jack told her.

Samantha backed off, pouting, “Oh, alright,” she said, “I can see you’re still a little shaken up. Let me know when you’re ready to stop jumping at every shadow.”

With that, Samantha walked out of the library, making a point to swing her hips with every step until she was gone. Jack released a breath as he sat down in one of the chairs, as much as he hated to admit it, he was scared and tired right now. His body, especially his arms and legs, were sore now that he was back in control and he wasn’t keen on being made a thrall again.

Might be good not to antagonize anyone right now, Jack thought, I don’t think Mistr- Ash - will be happy if I hurt any of the servants.

Jack shook his head. He almost called her Mistress. Might be good to call her that out loud, but never in his head. Jack would never bow to her.

He blushed when he remembered what happened to him the first night he was here. She made him do more than bow, and while he wasn’t happy with what he did, he was still alive, that was more than enough. Still, don’t think she’ll let me get that close ever again. Jack thought, frowning, and if I do, I’m certain she’ll have some of the other servants search me.

He gripped the edges of the chair tightly, squirming a bit as he tried to banish the memories of his first night from his head. She stripped him naked and struck him a few times, causing him to cry as well. Why then, did he enjoy it?

His mouth watered, and he felt his erection pressing against his pants. He forced his eyes open, trying to tell himself he was in the library and not the hallway. The memories left him, and he sat there gasping for a few minutes.

Curse that woman! Jack thought, putting his head in his hands, No, that monster. Monster!

---

Jack stayed in the library for a while until a bell sounded. Dinner already. As much as Jack would have preferred not being around anyone today, his stomach was rumbling at the mere thought of food so, unfortunately, he went down to the dining hall.

The rest of the servants except Eban were already seated by the time Jack got there. Ash, thankfully wasn’t there, Jack wasn’t sure he’d be able to look at her with trembling. Jack sat down next to Maria, the wash woman, since she was the farthest away from Samantha. Maria gave him a small smile as he sat down, but otherwise said nothing.

The other servants gave him similar looks as well, looks of amusement. They all heard what happened to him, and were probably laughing behind his back all week when he wasn’t able to defend himself.

Defend myself? Jack thought, Yeah, like I would have been able to defend what I did.

Thankfully, Anthony, the cook, came rushing into the room carrying a large tray of food with him. “Sorry to keep you all waiting!” the big man announced, “I know you’ve all been working as hard as you can and I want to make sure you’ve all been properly fed!”

Anthony passed dishes around the table, and Jack’s mouth was already watering as the lids were lifted revealing all sorts of food.

“Help yourselves!” Anthony said.

Jack was aware that Anthony’s food was delicious when he was enthralled, although his body didn’t relish the taste back then that Jack was able to now. It was delicious, simple as that.

Part way through their meal, Atticus cleared his throat before saying, “Does anyone know what the Mistress was going to tell us?”

Jack flinched, “What?”

Atticus gave him a quick glance before sighing, “Mistress Ash said she had something she wanted to ask us after dinner.”

“Ah,” Maria piped up, “Does that mean we’ll have to stay here a little longer?”

“At least until she shows up.” Atticus replied.

Just throw me into the Abyss now. Jack thought, suddenly losing his appetite. Alright then, just have to control myself. She doesn’t scare me. While he claimed that, it didn’t stop him from making a few quick hand movements as a prayer to Ashildyr to protect him.

Suddenly, Jack felt someone poke him on the side and yelped in surprise. It was Maria, who stared at him wide eyed while everyone else laughed.

“Looks like someone’s a little jumpy,” Samantha began, “Mistress scare you?”

“Haven’t heard someone make a sound like that in a while!” Anthony chuckled.

“Hitting the high notes there.” Tarkus mumbled.

“Didn’t know a man could make such a high pitched noise!” Erik commented.

Jack felt his face redden as he looked over at Maria, “Need something?”

“Just wondering if you knew what Mistress Ash was going to ask.” Maria whispered.

“No.”

“Ah, sorry for keeping you waiting.”

Jack squeaked, nearly falling from his seat but managing to catch himself at the last second. When did Ash get here? How long was she standing there?

Unfortunately for him, that caused another round of laughing from the gathered servants. Ash, however, simply glanced at him without emotion before turning her attention to the rest of the table and waited until the laughter died down before she began.

Once she had everyone’s attention, Ash pulled out a letter from her pocket and tossed it on the table. Jack saw the seal on the letter, it wasn’t a seal he recognized, a willow tree, but he had an idea who the sender was. Or rather, what the sender was.

“A letter from Lady Willow?” Atticus asked.

Ash nodded, “Yes, unfortunately it seems time for another party at her manor.”

The other servants fell silent, the smiles from Jack’s misfortune fading. What’s going on?

“I know most of you would prefer not to go, especially considering the company Willow keeps around,” Ash continued, “I cannot force any of you to come with me, and if you do, I would consider it a great favor for me.”

The other servants glanced at each other. They were no longer smiling, instead each of them looked worried or even scared. Ash nodded, about to say something until Jack spoke up.

“I’ll go.”

The servants looked at him, with Atticus about to say something, but Ash cut him off, “Alright then. The party is the night after next. I recommend getting plenty of rest until then since the party tends to last for a while.” Ash turned to address the rest of the table, “If any of you need me, I’ll be out in the gardens.”

With those words, Ash left, leaving Jack at a table with the rest of the servants who stared at him in disbelief. “I’m not sure what exactly you’re planning,” Atticus began, “but I hope this isn’t something you’re going to regret.”

“Anyone feel like filling me in?” Jack asked.

Samantha coughed, “You don’t know?”

“I was enthralled for a week.”

“Well…” Anthony began, “Lady Willow is another vampire who lives in the area, she likes to throw parties every now and again and the Mistress likes to attend to keep appearances. Other vampires are encouraged to bring some guests, typically humans, although… not all vampires are as kind as Mistress.”

“What do you mean?” Jack asked, disbelieving.

“I’ve gone to Lady Willow’s parties several times,” Atticus replied, “I learned pretty quickly to stay close to Mistress unless I wanted to be drained. Even then, some of the other vampires got too close for comfort.”

“I was nearly dragged away last time I went!” Samantha chimed in, shivering.

Well isn’t that just something. Jack thought, getting up. I just agreed to go to a death party.

“Where are you going?” Atticus asked.

“Going out to clear my head,” Jack replied.

“Having second thoughts already?” Samantha asked.

Jack didn’t bother giving a response to that.

The night air helped him calm down a little, the air was cool and the night was silent. There were lanterns around the manor grounds helping Jack see in. Eban was nowhere to be seen, most likely he would be in his shack munching on his own special dish Anthony provided for him. Jack had seen the slush Eban was usually given to eat and was thankful he wasn’t forced to eat that.

Look at me, Jack thought, kicking a rock with more force than was necessary being happy that I was given proper food to eat. That’s the least anyone should expect!

He sighed, now wasn’t the time to get angry to let his emotions get in control of him. That’s how he got in this trouble the first time, getting drunk and being taken by snatchers, and panicking when he should have been able to easily kill Ash. Crumbling to her was another thing he regretted, one of many actions in his life.

Where even was Ash? Jack looked around, passing through the garden he was forced to look after for a week. He found Ash standing in front of a hedge sculpture of a man who seemed to be dancing surrounded by several raven sculptors. She had her back to him, staring at the dancing man, raising a hand to touch it.

Ash was dressed in light clothing, a light dress shirt which clung loosely to her sides as well as a short skirt which revealed her long slender legs. Her hair, as opposed to the first time they met, was down and flowed all to the middle of her back. Her feet were bare and Jack swallowed when he saw them.

“I was wondering who was coming over here,” Ash said, her back still turned to him, “do you need something, human?”

“Just wondering if I might die at the party.”

Ash paused before answering, “No, no humans have died there so far. Still, I would be on my best behavior if I were you. Probably shouldn’t stab anyone with a knife. I doubt other vampires would find your pathetic blubbering endearing.”

Jack released a breath, his fingernails biting into his palms. No time for that. It won’t end well for me. He walked over to Ash, looking up at the hedge sculpture in question. Jack vaguely remembered working on it one day, his body moving as if given direct instructions from Ash. He wondered what kind of dance the man was doing, and why there were so many ravens?

“I’d recommend getting some rest, human,” Ash said, beginning to walk away, “you have work tomorrow and a party after that.”

“Can I ask you something?” Jack asked.
Ash stopped, and turned to look at him, “What is it?”

Keep calm. Jack felt his heart hammering in his chest as he struggled to find the correct words, “You’ve been distant since I woke up, why’s that?”

Ash shook her head, “Forgive me for not knowing how to act towards someone who tried to kill me, tell me, how would you like me to react?”

Jack paused, “I’m… not sure.”

Ash sighed, bringing a hand to her face, “You’re a lot more trouble than I thought you were going to be.”

Jack’s heart stopped for a second, but he managed to take a few breaths to calm himself, unfortunately, he did not take the time to watch his words,“Excuse me for not appreciating being in a cage.”

“I freed you from that cage, human,” Ash replied almost dismissively, “and you tried to kill me.”

“Don’t call me human! I have a name! It’s Jack! And maybe you can look at me!”

“That would not be a good idea, Jack.” Ash replied, still with her back to him. If Jack had been paying attention, he might have noticed the way her fists were clenched as well as the way Ash was trembling slightly. Jack, however, was not paying attention.

“Never thought I would have this conversation with a monster!”

He regretted the words as soon as he said them, covering his mouth just a moment too late. Ash turned around, her expression unreadable. Jack suppressed a shiver and took an involuntary step back. She gave him a small smile, her lips parting, flashing her fangs. In a second, Ash stood in front of him, gripping him from the hem of his shirt and raising him to eye level, “Is this how you would like me to talk to you, Jack?”

Jack struggled to find his breath before replying, being careful not to look in her eyes, “I…I-I-!”

“You, what?” Ash asked, still showing her fangs.

“Ple-please put me down!”

Ash shoved him and Jack whimpered as he fell to the ground. He got his bearings quickly and tried to scramble away, but he stopped since he knew he wouldn’t get far. Reluctantly, Jack looked up as Ash towered over him, glaring down upon him. She wasn’t baring her fangs anymore, nor did she have any readable expression, but Jack could feel the anger in her eyes. His throat tightened, and he found it hard to breathe, let alone speak.

She knelt down, reaching out towards him. Jack squeaked, and threw himself back, using his arms to shield his face, as if that could do anything to save him. She wasn’t going to kill him. At least, Jack hoped that was the case, who else would go with her to the party? Didn’t mean she wasn’t going to hurt him. Oh gods, please not another enthrallment!

Ash sighed, “I knew it, get up from the ground, human, I’m not going to hurt you.”

Jack opened his eyes reluctantly. Ash stood a few feet away, arms crossed beneath her breasts. She looked at him, her expression showing pity instead of anger.

“Stand up,” Ash repeated, “I’m beginning to wonder if taking you to the party is even a good idea.”

“I can go!” Jack said, his voice barely louder than a whisper.

Ash shook her head, “I’ll take you to your room, don’t need you wetting yourself at every shadow. I’m surprised you hadn’t done so already.”

Jack felt his face redden, and the feeling didn’t go away as Ash kept to her word and led him back inside her manor, back to his room. To make matters worse, the two passed both Atticus and Samantha on the way back to his room, and while Atticus merely bowed in acknowledgement of Ash, Samantha grinned when she saw Ash leading Jack. Great, something else everyone is going to talk about.

“Well as fun as this was, I think I’m going to leave you here,” Ash said when they got to Jack’s room, “goodnight.”

“I’m sorry.” Jack whispered.

“Hmm?” Ash asked.

Jack squirmed slightly as he struggled to make eye contact, somehow, he did it, meeting her eyes as he replied “I’m sorry. For… the knife… and… for what happened in the garden, making you angry.” he swallowed, still keeping eye contact, scared he would have his will taken away from him, “I shouldn’t have called you a monster. You’ve… been kinder to me than I deserve.”

Ash stared at him for a little bit before coming closer and, to Jack’s shock, pulling down the edge of her shirt. She wore a simple white bra, and with her shirt pulled down Jack was able to see plenty of her cleavage. He was also able to see a small scar on the side of her breasts, right where he struck her with a knife. Unlike the wound from Eban, his scar seemed to be healing, as it was faded.

“See that?” Ash asked, “That’s where you stabbed me.”

“It seems to be healing.” Jack noted.

“It does, doesn’t it? Eban used a silver blade to strike me, whereas yours was just steel. Stings like the Abyss thought. Do you think this is something I can easily forgive?”

Jack’s mouth was dry when he responded, “I hope you can eventually forgive me.”

“One day,” Ash replied, her voice soft and reassuring before pulling her shirt back up. She looked down, smiling slightly, “I’d take care of that if I was you.”

Jack wanted the ground to swallow him right then and there. It was all he could do to stop any tears from streaming down his face. Why then, did that only seem to make it worse?

“Tell you what, since I’m in a good mood right now, I’ll let you ask me something just this once.”

Jack was ashamed of himself for wanting to ask this. He was even more ashamed when he opened his mouth to ask, “Do you mind if I… touch your feet?”

“Again with that, huh?” Ash shifted her weight and pulled up one side of her trousers to reveal her pale foot, “Go ahead.”

Jack leaned down, reaching out for her foot. Like last time, they were soft and Ash giggled slightly as Jack’s fingers reached in between her toes. She flexed her toes, allowing him better access and Jack took advantage, his fingers running along their length, admiring their form and strength. Her toenails, blunt and unpainted, were neatly trimmed and clean and Jack ended his exploration of her toes by them. She wasn’t letting him touch her soles, but the top was just as good as well. He wanted to kiss them, to feel her toes in his mouth.

No. She was already allowing him to do this, it wouldn’t be a good idea to push his luck. He was in the middle of running his fingers against her toes when Ash withdrew her foot “Satisfied?” she asked, “I’ve some things to take care of, goodnight Jack.”

Jack wasn’t proud of what he did before he fell asleep. He threw off his pants as soon as he was alone in his room. His penis was already hard, had been hard for a while now, and he was squirming as his hand wrapped around it. He closed his eyes, imagining Ash there with him.

He hated feeling this way around her, hated being scared of her, hated being under her thumb. It excited him though, the feeling that she could easily kill him. He hated the way everyone knows what happened, and he hates that it makes him feel good.

Jack imagined her breasts, full and soft, before him. He reached out with his free hand, pretending to be cupping one and hearing her moan as his thumb traced over her nipple. For once, when she looked at him, she wasn’t angry, she was happy.

Jack groaned as he orgasmed, spraying his seed all over himself. He felt like trash as he cleaned up and crawled under the covers, imagining Ash laying next to him as he fell asleep. He clung tightly to his pillow, imagining it was her, wanting nothing more than to be held in her arms.

---

Jack groaned as he sat back in his seat, wiping his brow. He had just finished his work for today, maintaining the garden and pruning the hedges. Ash left him a note on what to do and Jack made sure he followed every instruction perfectly. Didn’t need to give her a reason to embarrass him tonight. I’ve been giving her plenty of reasons on my own. He growled to himself.

Tarkus came over to him, laughing as he took a seat beside him. “How’d you like your first day of labor as yourself?” he asked.

“Better than as a thrall.” Jack mumbled.

Tarkus chuckled, “Mistress Ash gave you a load of work when you were a thrall. Be glad you don’t have to do it now.”

Jack shivered, “I still have sore spots in my body from the week.”

“No one to blame but yourself for that,” Tarkus replied, standing up and stretching, “Anthony should have dinner ready in about an hour or so if you want to change into some nice clothes.”

Jack nodded, “Think I’ll probably take a bath as well.”

---

Jack had just finished taking off his clothes and was about to get into the tub when the door opened. At first Jack thought it might be Atticus checking on him, but he yelped and rushed to cover himself when he saw Samantha stepping through the door. She pouted when she saw his hands covering his body.

“Aww, you’re no fun!” she pouted.

“What in the Abyss are you doing here?” Jack hissed.

“Mistress Ash wanted you to come to her room after dinner,” Samantha replied, “she wanted you to try on some clothes for the party.”

“She couldn’t send Atticus to tell me?” Jack growled.

Samantha giggled, “She wanted to, but I told her I could handle this. I can see why Mistress Ash chose to spare you.”

“Get out!” Jack yelled, unfortunately, he wasn’t thinking straight and pointed at the door with one his hands which gave Samantha a peak at his crotch.

She sighed, “No one in this manor is any fun, I swear all of you need to loosen up a little.”

Jack growled, “If you want people to flirt with, try Atticus. He told me he always wanted to see you bathe my first night here.”

Samantha’s face turned red for a moment, something Jack was surprised by. She whispered Atticus’ name, a small smile forming on her lips before she winked at him and left without another word. Abyss born woman, Jack thought, sinking into the tub, not sure what Atticus sees in her.

He didn’t stay in the tub for too long, staying to wipe off all the dirt, mud, and sweat off himself before getting out and putting on dry clothes. He briefly considered skipping dinner and going straight to Ash’s room, but decided he might as well get food since he wasn’t sure how long Ash would keep him there.

Jack stayed quiet over dinner, listening as the servants talked. This would be his last dinner before the party and Anthony gave him a bigger portion than the others, “Not sure if there’ll be any food for you there,” he said, “I’d suggest eating now and I’ll be sure to feed you before you leave tomorrow!”

Glad to see not everyone is trying to embarrass me. Jack thanked Anthony and ate all the cook gave him. After dinner, he made his way straight for Ash’s room. Atticus came with him.

“Any advice you want to give me for the party?” Jack asked.

“Stay close to Mistress Ash,” Atticus replied, “that should deter most of the other vampires from taking a bite. I would also advise against stabbing one of them, they won’t be as forgiving as Mistress Ash.”

“Are the humans at the party up for grabs or something?” Jack asked, ignoring the last part, “Samantha said she was almost dragged away last time.”

“Yes,” Atticus replied, shivering, “some of the other guests like… trying to poach the servants of others. It’s just a little game they play. Make no mistake, you will still belong to Mistress Ash, but once others see that you’ve been taken by someone else, well, they might wonder if they can get a quick snack from you.”

“Delightful.” Jack said, “All the guests are like this?”

“Not all of them,” Atticus replied, “Mistress Ash finds that little game terrible and she says she has met others who claim to not enjoy it either… but I would try to be as close to Mistress Ash as possible.”

“Alright.”

Atticus opened the door to Ash’s room and announced he and Jack were there. Ash allowed them to come in. Jack nearly tripped when he saw what Ash was wearing when he entered her room.

She wore an elegant dress with a low neckline, giving a generous view of her cleavage, and also leaving her pale shoulders bare. The dress itself was navy blue, and had a low skirt which gave a view of her beautiful legs. Her hair was done up in a bun, with a silver hairpiece in the shape of a raven holding her hair in place. Two strands of hair framed her pale face, and she smiled when the two of them came in. There was a pair of intricate looking sandals by her bed, although Ash currently wasn’t wearing them.

“Perfect timing,” Ash greeted, “I just finished getting ready. Atticus, you are dismissed.”

Atticus nodded, shooting Jack a look before leaving. Don’t worry, I learned my lesson from last time. He swallowed as he turned back to Ash, realizing they were alone together. “You look nice.” Jack said stiffly, wanting to break the silence.

“Why thank you,” Ash replied, giving him a little curtsey, “I have some clothes for you to try on, do you mind getting undressed?”

Jack swallowed, his heart beating a little faster. Suddenly, he found it hard to make eye contact with her. “Do you mind… looking away when I try them on?”

Ash chuckled, “If you wish, here, let me give me some clothes.”

She turned around to grab the clothes laying on her bed. Like her dress, they were navy blue in color, and were smooth and warm when Ash handed them over.

“Atticus was kind enough to give us some spare clothes,” Ash explained, “mind trying them on?”

True to her word, Ash turned away as Jack stripped down before putting on the new clothes. The pants were a bit long, as was the shirt, but not too much so. The jacket had silver embroidery upon it, with a depiction of a raven on the collar. Ash must have had a hand in this.

Ash smiled when she saw him, the tips of her fangs barely visible. “It looks excellent on you,” she said, “might have to ask Maria if she can make some slight alterations to it though.”

Jack admired the clothes. Even if they were slightly too big for him, he liked the way they felt, liked the way they made him look. At least some good is coming out of this.

He looked up to see Ash walking towards him. Without saying a word, Ash brought her hands to Jack’s arms, tracing along them to see where the sleeves needed to be trimmed. Jack gave a weak protest, his emotions warring with each other as he felt her fingers dance across his arms, her hands less than inch away. Ash muttered something, before bending down, her hands and fingers tracing their way down his body and towards his legs. Jack stiffened slightly before relaxing as Ash made her way towards his ankles.

While she was busy fussing with his pant legs, Jack was able to get a good glimpse of her cleavage from this view. He was a bit disappointed that the dress, while not conservative in the slightest, did not allow him to view her breasts in their entirety. At least, he was able to look at them as they shifted slightly as Ash bent down even more.

“Didn’t realize Atticus was taller than you…” she muttered, “hopefully Maria will be able to have this finished before we leave.” Ash paused before looking up at him with a sly smile, “What’s got your heart pumping so fast, Jack?”

Jack laughed awkwardly, taking a few steps backwards. There’s no way she didn’t know.

“Something wrong?” she asked.

Jack struggled to find his words, “You… just surprised me is all.”

Ash stood up, “Oh, I’m sorry about that. I assume you still need some time to recover then?”

Jack struggled to move. Don’t make me say it! He didn’t want to admit it, but he knew lying wouldn’t end well for him either.

“Are you sure you’ll be able to join the party?” Ash asked, “You seem to barely be able to stand properly in my presence, I’m not sure you won’t wet yourself at this rate.”

“I said I’ll attend and I will!” Jack replied, speaking much louder than he intended.

“Do not take that tone with me!” Ash shot back, her voice sharp, “I would also suggest not speaking to any of the guests in that way either!”

Jack flinched, his eyes shooting downwards. “I’m sorry.” he said, his voice low.

Ash sighed, “No. It’s my fault as well. I didn’t mean to insult you.”

Jack released a breath he didn’t know he was holding before looking up again. She wasn’t angry, wasn’t even looking at him. Instead she was sitting at the edge of her bed, with her fingers against her forehead.

“Just one night,” she muttered, “hopefully there won’t be any parties for a while after this one.”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Go ahead,” Ash replied, not looking his way.

“What will happen, if for whatever reason, you and I got separated?”

Ash kept a neutral expression when she responded, “Pray to the gods you don’t get grabbed by someone else. If you are, pray it will be over quick. Not much I’ll be able to do if you get bitten. You’ll be passed around like sweets at that point.”

Jack shivered, “In that case, would it be alright if you took a drink from me?”

Ash laughed, turning to face him once again, “No, no. My bite, someone else's, it won’t matter. Others will see and want a taste of you. Good idea though, it’s a shame it didn’t work when Eliza tried it, her poor human barely survived that night. Anything else you’d like to ask?”

Jack glanced at the statuette of the Mother before shaking his head, “No.”

Ash paused, bringing a finger to her lips before saying, “One more thing, I would avoid making eye contact with any of the other vampires at the party. Unless, of course, you want to be hypnotized.”

Jack shivered, “I’m fine. Just avoid eye contact with them? Wouldn’t they find it rude?”

Ash shrugged, a small smile on her lips, “I’ve been staring at the empty space next to your head for a while now. I only made eye contact with you when I was angry. I… have a hard time making eye contact usually. Did you notice? You find it rude?”

I haven’t even noticed. Jack let out a breath he didn’tknow he was holding, relieved he could let go of that particular worry, “I’m glad, actually. I’ve been worried since I woke up.”

Ash stood up, turning away from him, “Good, I’d get some sleep if I was you. I’ll give you a light workload tomorrow so you can get some rest before the party. Goodnight, Jack. Leave the clothes on my bed and I’ll give them to Maria tomorrow.” Jack did so, and was about to leave when Ash suddenly whispered, “Wait.”

Jack turned. He wasn’t sure if he imagined it, her voice was so soft, however he noticed she was staring at the floor close to him, rather than himself. “Something wrong?” he asked.

Ash squeezed her side, having trouble finding words. This was an interesting change from the last few times he had interacted with her. It was cute, really. Especially the way she bit her lip. “There’s something I should apologize for.”

Jack blinked, and stepped closer. What?

“Your first night here, I did something I shouldn’t have done to you.” Ash continued, “I was furious, yes, and turning you to my thrall was deserved. Before that… in the hallway…”

Jack flushed, realizing what she was talking about.

“It’s fine.” Jack whispered, face burning.

Ash shook her head, “No, it’s not. I shouldn’t have done that.” she lifted her head, her eyes watering with tears she’s stubbornly trying to blink back. Jack felt something run through him when her gaze came upon him, she was making eye contact again. “I’m truly sorry about that. You can ask me for anything in my power and I will give it to you.”

Where is this coming from? Jack wondered. He looked her over, wondering if maybe he could ask for her. Would she agree to it though? She’s apologizing for taking advantage of him in the hallway, would it be right for him to ask?

Then again, depending on how the party goes, this might also be his last time to do anything. If not her feet, then maybe something else? Jack’s mouth was dry as he considered this, not helped by the way Ash looked at him, waiting to hear anything he had to say. Her expression was neutral, but Jack could feel the weight in her eyes.

His hands felt clammy, and he swallowed, his throat tight. Gods, help me. Jack thought, taking a breath, “I wouldn’t mind… being here with you a little longer.”

Ash blinked, looking taken aback. “What do you mean?” she asked.

Don’t make me say it. Jack thought, stiffly walking over to the bed and sitting down. He was next to her, but he made sure there was some space between the two of them. He stared at the floor for a few seconds before lifting his hand over towards her. Ash, not saying anything, took his hand in hers.

She was soft, and her skin was cool. This was different then how Jack remembered his first night. Ash was still quiet, staring at Jack with an expression he couldn’t quite puzzle out. Curious? Sad? Calm? He couldn’t figure it out, wasn’t sure if it was safe for him to push any further, or if she’ll snap him in half for even trying.

“Jack…” Ash began, her voice soft, “are you… doing what I think you’re doing?”

Jack scooted closer, not able to look at her. His heart was pounding in his chest and, despite the coolness of her skin, Jack felt himself beginning to sweat.

Ash moved, getting up and leaning down in front of him. He looked up at her, still not trusting enough to look directly in her eyes again, instead focusing on her cute nose. That was enough for him though to notice her expression had changed, looking more worried than anything else. Ash licked her lips, before speaking, “Jack, is this really something you want? After last time, I will admit I was worried. Scared.”

Jack swallowed before he answered, “Please, take me again."

Ash gave him a sad smile before cupping his cheek with her hand. Jack closed his eyes as she raised his head to look at her. “I know you’re scared of this, but I promise I won’t hypnotize you. Not tonight. So, please, could you look me in the eyes and tell me what you want?”

Jack opened his eyes, meeting hers in the first time in a week. They were beautiful, bright red. There was power in them, he knew that all too well, memories of those same eyes blazing with hate came back to him, causing some of his parts of his body to tremble. Now though, those eyes looked at him with worry, and something else. Desire. “Can you take me again?” Jack repeated, “Gently?”

Ash’s smile widened, “If that’s what you want. But you’ll have to get naked, I don’t want either of our clothes being ruined before the party.”

“Alright.”

Jack worked fast to take off his clothes. He set them down gently on the bed, before turning to face Ash. His own excitement was obvious, his penis standing half erect. Jack watched eagerly as Ash slipped out of her dress, the whole thing falling to the ground gracefully as she stepped out of it.

She wasn’t naked, not yet, as she still wore her bra and panties, but seeing her more exposed was enough for Jack. He bit his lip, nervous, shaking. Ash raised an eyebrow, a small smile on her lips. “Something on your mind?” she asked.

“You’re beautiful.” Jack breathed.

Ash smiled, “Thank you. And you are very cute.”

Jack blushed deeply, and had trouble swallowing. The girls at university were never interested in him, and here he was, naked in front of a very beautiful woman. One who just called him cute. His penis twitched, still pointing directly at her.

Ash giggled as she unclipped her bra, “No, it seems you’re adorable.”

Jack moaned, his own arousal compounding when he looked at Ash as she removed the last of her clothing. She looked the same as she did that night in the hallway, except this time, there was no fury in her eyes. When she approached him, she was gentle, her touch causing him no pain.

She embraced him, seemingly paying no mind to the fact his penis was digging into her thigh. Jack moaned softly, allowing himself to melt against her. The feel of her breasts against his chest, as well as her arms around him, was becoming too much. The coldness of her body did nothing to calm him down.

Ash’s hand traced along his back before said hand came to rest at the shaft of his cock. Jack arched his back, holding back a groan as her fingers tightened around his member. “Just let me take me of this,” Ash whispered, her voice low, “it’s the least I could do.”

She moved her hand along his length, her pinky teasing his sensitive glans with every stroke. Jack’s legs buckled, his breathing becoming uneven as the pleasure grew. He kept his eyes open, staring at Ash’s face as she continued to stroke him. She was smiling. Beautiful.

With a soft groan, Jack came, shooting his seed on Ash, ropes of com clinging onto her stomach and thigh. That was wonderful! Jack thought, collapsing to the ground as his legs no longer supported him.

Ash wiped off Jack’s seed with her hand before bending down, “Was that good?” she asked.

“It was wonderful.” Jack sighed, “Thank you.”

Ash smiled, before picking him up, “I’ll take you to your room so you can rest before our party for tomorrow.”

“Alright.’ Jack mumbled, his eyelids heavy.

He was asleep before they even left her room.