by Tiana Laveen
“Ready?” He slid on his black leather jacket and grabbed his keys from the same little gold dish he’d left his watch in earlier.
“Yeah, I’m ready.” Upon opening the front door, he paused, leaned over and swept her off her feet. Crushing her lips in a kiss, he blew her mind, and she fell limp in his embrace. She didn’t want to leave but to stay with him for the remainder of the day, and the day after that, too.
“We’re together now, okay? No one else. Just us. I’d never cheat on you like your ex. I mean that. A real man doesn’t need a hundred women to fuck. He just needs one woman to fuck a million different ways.”
She lowered her head for a spell.
“It feels like… It feels like we’re going too fast, Shahzad.”
“You’re just thinking too much. Love knows what speed to go. Your fear is making you move too slow. Fear always ruins things. Never trust it.” He took her hand and led her to his car. On the drive over, they didn’t speak much, but the way they looked at one another, and then kissed each other before he drove away, said it all. She thought about his words through the rest of that night. He was right. Since her ex had broken her heart, she trusted no one in matters of the heart. But Shahzad seemed different. What could she lose by giving him a chance? She’d never forgive herself if she didn’t try and find out…
CHAPTER TEN
There’s No Smoke Without Fire
…Two weeks later
“Why? My work hasn’t suffered. In fact, my productivity has increased,” Shahzad snapped. Nizar stood by him in the conference room. He shoved his folder aside, the one that was full of information regarding his pending meeting in Morocco. He preferred to keep the trip to himself for now. The meeting of the day was over, and the time was approaching ten at night. “And furthermore, you’re fucking forbidden from discussing this with me. You were warned previously! It isn’t your place!”
“You do realize that even though you’ve won her over, there are still obstacles.” The man ignored his chastisement and warnings, continuing on without regard to the possible consequences. Nizar was one of the few who could do such and live to get away with it.
“Such as?” Shahzad crushed his black and red striped cigar in a triangular white ceramic ashtray then returned to updating his schedule for the following week on his laptop. Two wealthy Arab billionaires were stopping by. Deals were about to be made.
“For starters, what’s going to happen when she finds out what you really are?”
They glowered at one another. Shahzad bit his tongue and quickly turned away, his fingers flying over his keyboard as he collected his thoughts—a reasonable response to such questioning. “You can’t vanish in front of her without an uproar. If you shapeshift into a large, hairy beast before her, she will run from you. If she were to see you angry and you grow to your true height before her due to your horrible temper, she’ll scream and cower in fear. You know how angry you can get sometimes! Do you want a wife who is afraid of you? One who is repulsed by you?”
“Vanishing in front of a mate is not necessary.” He contemplated drawing blood from his best friend out of pure annoyance. “To address your second point, I rarely shapeshift into anything other than my human form. I prefer it. The way we look right now is our natural state anyway, Nizar, so she has nothing to worry about. It’s not like I’m some feral animal in the guise of a man. It’s not as if I’d be living a lie. Additionally, when I do expose my full height during times of distress and fury, or the occasional shape shift due to anger, I am still in full control.” He swiveled slowly back and forth in his dark red leather chair.
“I choose to allow it to happen. Nizar, it doesn’t matter how bad my temper is or how you perceive it to be. I am fully aware of my reputation for being hot-tempered and volatile, but if you look at my track record you’ll see that is often caused by provocation. Regardless, only weakness causes someone to shapeshift even when there could be dire consequences. If it must be done to blow off some steam, do it behind closed doors. I have never done so in the public and lived to regret it. I’m not some bumbling, idiotic genie from a Disney movie singing goofy songs and shimmying my big blue belly about for the amusement of mortals and their offspring.”
Nizar studied him, and he could’ve sworn his best friend hid a smile. But then, the expression set to dull and grim. Nizar kept pacing back and forth as seconds turned to minutes. “And now you say that you love her,” he finally said.
“I do.”
“We’re incapable of love, Shahzad.”
“Says who?”
“We’re not good or evil. We exist on Earth, heaven and hell. We’re dual dimensional and love exists nowhere inside, above, below or for us. Loyalty does. Kindness at times, but love? Never.”
“That’s your opinion. It’s not fact. I used to think like you as well.” Shahzad looked away, returning to his tasks. “Now I know better.”
“What about children?”
“What about them?”
“Do you believe you can actually reproduce with this woman?”
“Of course I can. You know better than to ask such an infantile, ignorant question.” Nizar folded his arms and grimaced at his retort. “What you said is just plain stupid. I expected better from you and you can roll your eyes and huff all you wish. Don’t get angry at me for my reaction; you opened this Pandora’s box. You know full well that we can fuck and reproduce with human beings with absolutely no issue. That’s been proven a million times over. It’s just that most humans don’t even know they have a Jinn as a parent in the first damn place.”
“But typically we don’t marry them, Shahzad.”
“You’re right.” He shrugged. “But I’m not typical. So what’s your point?”
“Most of the offspring will never have Marid traits. The few that do will never be at full power, remaining a weaker version of their Jinn parent, and then they call it something silly like telepathic, empathic, or psychic when they are actually half Jinn. Such a warped representation.” The man sucked his teeth in disgust. “Not only that, if you impregnated her, it would be an embarrassment to your family name and from your very odd schedule as of late and the look in your eyes when you do arrive in the office, it’s more than obvious that you two have been fucking relentlessly. The possibility of you doing just that is inevitable.”
“If you hadn’t noticed, I don’t make my decisions based on what’s expected of me, or according to beliefs or traditions. My children with Vivian, should we have them, will be well taken care of and special, no matter what Jinn powers they might possess or lack thereof.”
“Let’s say everything goes as you wish. Even in the best-case scenario, you’re overlooking a serious flaw. The one wish we can never grant without giving our own life in exchange. It is unavoidable and you can’t stop it.”
“Such as?” He reached for his round liquor-filled glass ball and swished it, then released it so it floated like a bubble. A little trick he’d learned as a child. He always found it soothing. Relaxed his nerves.
“What about when she dies, Shahzad?”
Shahzad took a deep breath, and now the glass spun so fast, it became a blur. “You know humans don’t live as long as us. You’d be lucky if she lived to age eighty. We can live over nine hundred, and a few of us have even surpassed that. You’ll be alone again… Better to avoid the heartache altogether and leave her alone.”
Shahzad’s jaw tightened as a mixture of anger and sorrow merged within him. Of course, he’d already considered such a thing. He’d certainly outlive her; she had no special potion within her blood to prevent it. He wasn’t God. He could deliver suffering and death, worse than a mortal could imagine. But life? Extending it was possible, but it would cost him everything he had. A life for a life, and what would be the purpose if they couldn’t share their lives together? With a sad smile, he placed the crystal ball down. It rolled to the edge of his desk, teetered back and forth as if uncertain where to rest, then stopped cold. He l
it another cigar and took a drag, then exhaled dense blue smoke.
“Well Nazir, it’s like this… Nine minutes of bliss with her is better than hundreds of years with none of her presence in my life at all. I’m taking my chances…”
Jinns don’t fall in love, especially not powerful Jinns from influential families. Truth be told, the Haidar family was illustrious. Shahzad’s clan was legendary. The women were beautiful and smart and the men were dominant, talented, and a hundred percent pure bred Alphas.
We can’t fall in love with human beings though. That’s what I’ve been told. Once again, I was told wrong. Shahzad held the glowing golden bottle in his hands for a spell, staring into the soul of his ancestor. He had so many questions… What did she think of him? She had questions about him, he was sure. He looked at the other lamps and bottles, all of them holding various ancestors… He wondered if they glowed with shame?
Amina, I’ve been faithful to you and the ancestors. I humbly come to you and offer the truth. I’ve fallen in love with a human. My best friend Nizar doesn’t approve, nor does my family. I have never asked the ancestors for more than protection. I do my smoke baths religiously. I pray to you and honor you often. I light incense and candles for you. I respect you and follow the mandates. This time, I must break them. It is a wish for me, something money and riches can’t buy. I make love to this woman and feel as if I am more than simply a shell. I feel alive. I desire your blessing. They will listen to you. You’ve seen my Love. You showed me her reflection. She touched you, you told me. Isn’t she good? Isn’t she pure and just? Do you see why I yearn for her? She’s not like me. She’s a wish just out of arms reach. I want her. Please do what you can to assist me.
He placed the golden one back down onto the mantel, grabbed his thick black coat and overnight bag, and drove over to the apartment building where his baby was waiting for him.
Vivian seemed to be in a withdrawn mood that day. He figured it was her prerogative; humans had a reputation of being fickle and moody. Her reasoning was that it was so cold that day, she preferred to stay in for the night. She’d promised him a delicious homecooked dinner and they’d lounge about, enjoying each other’s company. That was something he couldn’t refuse and he was hellbent on getting into her panties before the night was over, too. He rushed to her house, but when he arrived a few feet from her doorway, he was accosted by a strong unpleasant odor.
The overwhelming stench of burnt chicken filled the hallway and he was certain his sweet Vivian was to blame. Rapping on her door, he covered his nose and mouth with one hand. She swung the door open, her body enveloped in a cloud of smoke. He could hardly stop himself from bursting out laughing when he saw her face. Her brow was scrunched, eyes glazed over, and lips pursed. There his Love stood with a crooked apron tied around her neck, and sweat beads along her hairline that resembled tiny, clear diamonds. He walked in to find a kitchen sink full of pots and pans. The trashcan was practically exploding with greasy chunks of aluminum foil.
“Uh, what happened?” His voice shook as he was about to lose his composure.
“I fell asleep on the couch by accident and now dinner is ruined! I was exhausted after working so late last night, Shahzad. The chicken is burnt to a crisp.”
He couldn’t hold back any longer. Laughter escaped his mouth so he quickly drew her in a hug, shielding himself as he regained his wits.
“I’ve messed up. How about some cereal?”
“It’s fine.” He waved her off as he removed his jacket and flung it onto the small kitchen counter. “Let’s go out.”
“No, no, it’s cold like I said and I just don’t want to have to get all dolled up.” She looked rather sad, as if she just didn’t have the strength and energy to do it. “How about we get delivery?”
“How about I cook for you instead?”
Her brow rose. “You can cook? I find that hard to believe.”
“I don’t think you’re in any position to question my abilities at this time,” he teased as he tossed a glance at her kitchen once more, the place in abysmal disarray.
“All right, you’ve made your point.”
She tilted her head back, laughing in earnest, and he admired her long neck. He loved every part of her body. Every inch of her was divine. The sound of her laughter titillated him, and his dick throbbed in his pants… wanting her. He pulled her closer and kissed her, one hand holding her head and the other at her breast, massaging in a rough then gentle motion until her nipple hardened.
“Shuh… Shahzad… food…” she said, breaking his trance.
Yanking himself away, he looked deep into her eyes.
“Here’s the new plan. I have some food across the hall that I can make for us. I don’t even have to leave the premises and there’s no need for delivery. Stand right here… be right back.” He marched over to apartment 13, his makeshift office, and entered the galley kitchen. He had it fully stocked with fresh fruit, vegetables, beverages, wine, beef and lamb. Seconds later, he returned to her after tossing an assortment of items into a black tote bag.
“Look at all of that. You sure had a lot of food for someone who claims to only use that spot to work.” She laughed as she closed and locked the door behind him.
“I like good food. I surround myself with all the things I enjoy. Now you’re one of those ‘things’, too.” He winked at her as she twisted her lips, crossed her arms and smirked. “Why don’t you go relax while I fix this?”
“What if I want to stand here and watch you?” she said in a sassy tone.
“Be gone, peasant. I work alone.”
She smacked his shoulder playfully, flipped him off, and headed to her bedroom with a bottle of water. When the coast was clear, he quickly cleaned all the pots and pans, then stood back relaxing, drinking a glass of wine with his feet up and ankles crossed as the dinner began to cook itself. Spatulas moved across greased pans, the oven was preheating, it was all going well, and he planned to deliver the works. Minutes later he suddenly heard her bedroom door crack open and he slammed his wine glass down hard on the counter. It was a miracle it didn’t shatter to pieces. He quickly fell in line, grabbing the spatula and humming as if everything were perfectly fine, as if he’d been slaving over a hot stove.
“What in the world?!” She laughed, slapping her knee. “How did you clean everything up and start cooking so fast?!”
“You’re in the presence of a real man. We get shit done.”
She grabbed his glass of wine and took a sip.
“Damn, it smells good in here. What are you making?”
“Rack of lamb with red wine sauce, baby potatoes and asparagus. I also have a nice black and blue salad here – beef sliced paper thin, blue cheese, and I’ll be topping it off with a homemade vinaigrette.”
“Oh, wow! I have to watch this!”
He groaned inwardly. Now he’d have to do it all by hand since she insisted on treating him like some cooking show. Swallowing his irritation, he got to work as she looked on, seeming to be turned on by his skills. Perhaps this wasn’t so bad after all? She was getting in the mood… would be dripping wet in no time. They engaged in a bit of small talk, shared a few laughs, but the lazy bones inside of him wouldn’t rest. Wishing to set the table quickly, he managed an excuse to get rid of the gawking scoundrel.
“Viv, I left my cigar case in my apartment. It’s on the kitchen counter. Can you get it for me, baby? I’d really appreciate it.” Before she could answer, he dug in his pocket and tossed the keys in her direction. She caught them in mid-air. “Great catch!” The woman winked, got to her feet, and walked out the front door in her nightgown and socks.
“Perfect! The coast is clear!” In a flash, the pots and pans began to move again on their own, knives cut up garnishes on cutting boards, and spoons stirred sauces. He winked at the table, causing it to set itself. Flying across the place were clean placemats, beautiful glasses from her cabinets, silverware, and white linen napkins. Everything was set out neatly i
n mere moments. He then made his way back to the stove and pretended to be working hard. When she returned, her mouth dropped open. She handed him the cigar case.
“No way! You must be Speedy Gonzales.”
“Eh.” He shrugged. “It didn’t take long because there wasn’t much to do. Have a seat.” He pointed to the small two-seater table in her kitchen. “The food will be finished in just a short while.”
She grabbed his glass of wine and went to sit at the table, staring at him with what definitely looked like love in her eyes. He glanced at her over his shoulder a time or two, unable to resist the sight of her. Walking over, he placed a napkin along her lap, peppering her neck with kisses. She giggled from his touch. He rubbed on her shoulder then set their plates on the placemats. He sat across from her and she bowed her head. He could see her lips moving rather quickly, and she appeared to be talking in a whisper and then it was over.
She prays over her food sometimes… Interesting.
Keeping her head still somewhat down, she reached for her fork and knife and cut into the succulent lamb.
“Oh wow… this is tender, Shahzad.” She placed the knife down and used the fork by itself. She savored the meat as she chewed. “This is delicious! Motherfucker, I might have to keep you! Where’d you learn to cook like this?”
He laughed. “My family.” He started to eat as she relayed the story of how two drunks had been kicked out of the bar for fighting, grumbled about the lousy tip she’d received from a demanding tourist, and ranted about an odd man who’d kept making sexual advances toward her, then called her a bitch when she refused to give him her number. Despite all of that, she seemed happy, while he dealt with an emotion he’d never endured in his entire life: jealousy.
The thought of someone hitting on her, flirting with her, and worst of all, trying to fuck her, made him seethe… It was then that he knew at least a little of what she’d been concerned about early on in their courtship was correct. He was possessive down to his damn bones.
