SCORCH: An Incubus versus Succubus Demon Romance

by Carlisle, Lisa

  “Fuck, you feel good.” I gripped her hips more tightly and lifted my hips off the bed, bucking against her at the angle that would set her off. The increasing friction and pressure drove me right to the edge with her.

  Her moans escalated. She cried out as she shattered, her tight walls pulsing around me. It was too much. I couldn’t hold back. I clamped on to her and exploded, shooting my release deep within.

  She lay against me and her hot, slick flesh met mine. Neither of us spoke for close to a minute as we caught our breath.

  When she’d stopped panting, she raised her upper body and playfully smacked my shoulder. “When you didn’t wake for days, you scared the shit out of me, Daron. I’ve never been so worried about anyone.”

  I chuckled. “Sorry. Won’t do it again.”

  Her gaze caressed me, as warm as sunlight. “And it was all because you risked your life to save me.” Her voice softened. “How did you know where I was?”

  “I sensed you were in danger.” Placing my hand over my heart, I admitted, “I never stopped aching for you here.”

  * * *

  Selena

  “Oh.” A strangled sound followed, only denoting a hint of my regret.

  I sat up in bed quick enough to jerk the mattress springs and send the comforter off to one side. Smoothing my hands over my temples through didn’t help tame my wild heartbeat. Instead, I found myself rocking gently, staring at the light that peeked in through the curtains as I tried to cope with intense emotions. Daron was finally safe and here with me. Eloise wasn’t so lucky. In between attempts to help Daron recover, I’d teleported to Newport. She’d been murdered as the hunter had declared. Guilt weighed on me like wet wings. I felt as responsible for her murder as I did with Daron’s injury.

  I lowered my hands and then wrung them. “I never should’ve broken the bond. I was stubborn and foolish and so wrong. It led to so much death and pain.”

  Daron pulled himself up on the bed and eyed me with a speculative look. “The hunters were responsible for that. Not you. Don’t take the blame for their actions.”

  His words warmed me deep into my core. Maybe he was right. Maybe the guilt would lessen one day. I had so much to tell him about what had happened. First, I had to admit what I had been doing. If he wanted no part of it—well, I couldn’t bear to think of it—but he had a right to know.

  I pulled the sheet up to cover my upper body and bit my lip. “The reason you may have sensed me in the woods was, well…the same reason I sensed you were in trouble outside of Vamps. You see—I, uh...” My hands shook and I clutched the sheet in a tighter grip. I took a deep breath and started over. “Daron, I’ve missed you. I regretted breaking our bond and have been encouraging it to grow back.”

  Would he freak out about my back-and-forth wavering about the bond? Severing the bond had been painful, in retrospect, so cruel. Could he forgive me for wanting us to be connected once more?

  He nodded with an ah-ha expression. “I thought I sensed it growing.”

  I sighed. “You felt it?”

  “Yes, but I wondered if I was imagining it from wanting it too much.”

  “You want it, too?” My voice softened with wonder.

  He caressed my cheek. “I want to be with you, Selena.”

  My lip trembled. “You’re willing to sacrifice variety for me?”

  Daron trailed his hands down the side of my neck and over my collarbone with a light touch. “It’s not a sacrifice. You’re all I want.”

  My heartbeat fired more rapidly, like one of the songs with the rising tempos at Vamps. He pulled his hand away and my skin cooled at the absence of his touch.

  After a slow blink, he ran his fingers over his jaw. “I should be the one who’s uncertain.”

  “About what?”

  “You were against the bond all along. Don’t commit yourself to something you’re not sure about.” His eyes implored me.

  “I am sure.” I covered my chest and squeezed back happy tears. “You must be crazy to want me. I’m a stubborn pain in the ass.”

  “I’m well aware of that.” A glimmer of amusement flashed in his bright eyes. “It’s one of the things I love about you. Your smart mouth brings me copious amounts of pleasure.” He ran his index finger over my bottom lip. “I think a cavalier incubus like me could use a feisty succubus like you.”

  My pulse fluttered. I grinned, elated for a second chance. “I might agree with you.”

  “You’re agreeing with me? I must be making you soft for me.” He winked.

  “Yes,” I admitted. “But I’ve learned that it’s not a bad thing. I was so afraid about so many things—the hunters, caring about anyone again, a commitment. You taught me to fight for what I want. What I finally realize is, I want you.”

  He leaned forward so his forehead touched mine. “I’m here now and I’m not going anywhere. Not without you.”

  After he pulled away, I still reveled in the warmth of his touch, his scent, his words, his promise. “Do you think Eloise was right? That we might have originally created the bond ourselves?” I still hadn’t told him about Eloise yet. That would come when I rehashed the whole horrid nightmare.

  He shrugged and waved with an open palm. “Perhaps. Something this powerful can’t just float around the universe, searching for a host, like a lesser demon seeking a body to inhabit. We chose to be together that night. Maybe we did create it subconsciously as a way to connect.”

  I glanced at the ceiling, picturing the stars on the other side. “Right. I no longer think it was some spell or a twisted trick of fate. Our psyches might have recognized something sooner than our minds could grasp.”

  He took my hand and kissed it and then rolled me onto my back. “Why don’t we encourage this bond to grow and flourish?” He rolled on top of me and flashed that suggestive grin that made my thighs quiver. “I know of a way that pleases us both.” He teased me with his erection.

  “You’re ready for another go already?” I quirked a brow.

  His lips twitched into a half-smile. “Am I not an incubus?” He slid in between my already wet folds. “Besides, I want to please my mate.”

  I forced myself to relax as he pushed in. Once he was back where I needed him, I said, “I like the sound of that, Daron.” I caressed his cheek and searched his blue eyes. “My mate.”

  He took one of my hands and laced his fingers through mine, pinning our joint hands on the soft white pillow near my head. He bent down and kissed me with such tenderness, it made me tremble, rocking my already volatile emotions. As he ran his other hand over my body, his gentle touch caressed me like a promise.

  I embraced him in return, pouring myself into the kiss. Not holding anything back as I offered myself to him.

  No more reservations. No more barriers.

  Colors swirled, heat flowed, and all the energy in the universe seemed to wrap itself around us like satin ribbons softly brushing my skin. Something strange was happening around us, similar to the magical connection that magnified the intensity on our first epic night together. Even the atmosphere pulsed as if charged. The vivid energy of a thunderstorm on the night of a full moon.

  Such powerful vibrations rocked through me, I shuddered.

  This was more than sex. More than a feeding. It was something rare and to be cherished. I would never be so careless to discard something so precious again.

  I pulled my lips away. “It’s happening.”

  “I feel it.” He pulled back and eyed me with a wondrous expression. He sucked in a breath. “It’s more intense than last time.”

  I could barely move while our connection seared us. Neither did Daron.

  Once the bond was set, we moved again in slow motion as if still mesmerized by what had happened. He kissed my face, my jawline, my neck.

  Then he paused and cupped my face. “I love you, my mate.”

  More happiness than I ever thought possible flowed through me. I never knew that those few words could have such a deep im
pact. I’d thought love was a waste of time, something only foolish mortals swooned about. I’d thought it would make us weak.

  I was wrong.

  Because together we were much more than we could ever be apart.

  “I never thought I’d say this to anyone, Daron. But, I love you, too.”

  His gaze warmed with tenderness and joy. Almost making up for the pain I had caused us.

  I wrapped my legs around him. “But, right now, I need you. Here.” I pulled him deeper inside me.

  His smoldering look returned, and he resumed pumping into me with slow, deep thrusts.

  My incubus was back, for good.

  Epilogue

  Selena

  Three weeks later

  Daron pulled me close to him while we danced at Vamps, our last hurrah before we left Massachusetts. Joy Division’s “Dead Soul” thundered around us as purple and red lights swashed overhead.

  I gestured at all the humans moving with wild abandon on the dance floor. “With so many tempting options to taste here, you sure you’re okay with the same woman every night?”

  “It’s never the same with you.” Daron ran his hands over my sides, stirring the familiar wild tingles inside me that only he could incite. “There are the familiar aspects I love about you. And then something new all the time.”

  True. The more we drew on the sensual energy of others, the more we sensed differences. Each person added a little of their unique flavor to the experience. Not only did we acquire the energy we craved, but we also spiced up our sex life.

  “I thought being monogamous would be like having the same meal every night. I was wrong. It’s like having my favorite meals and trying something new on the side.”

  He laughed and pressed my body back to his and resumed our intimate dance. “I’m glad you find me appetizing.”

  “Even better than pizza.” I licked my lower lip.

  He moaned and squeezed my ass. “Don’t do that with your mouth or I’ll be tempted to take you right here.”

  “The gargoyles would love that.” My grin was pure mischief, worthy of Daron, the king of devilish smiles. “What do you think? Shall we rile them up before we go?”

  “Sweetness, you’re not suggesting we break the rules, are you?” His eyes twinkled. “Didn’t you chew me out for doing so here?”

  “If you hadn’t, we might never have met.” And I never would have conquered my—issues. Humans called it conquering their demons. They attributed the worst actions to us, yet sometimes they acted far worse than we could imagine.

  Daron pulled me closer. I reached up and kissed him, wanting more. He ran his hands over my body and moaned. We generated more heat as we danced. As we did, we stirred the desires of those near us.

  Within minutes, sensual energy swam around us like a rising whirlpool. Bodies moved closer. Humans kissed and grabbed each other without reservation. Daron and I drank in their sensual energy as we kissed, fueling our own desires.

  A tap on my shoulder. I turned and glanced up. As I expected, it was one of the gargoyle guards. The one with blond hair. “Is this your doing?”

  I glanced around. Many couples around us were consumed by full-blown lust. I wouldn’t be surprised if they turned the club into an orgy.

  Which wasn’t a bad idea.

  “Just a little parting gift for all.” I blew the gargoyle a kiss.

  The gargoyle crossed his arms and pulled his mouth into a grim line. “I hope this means you’re leaving town.”

  “As a matter of fact, it does,” Daron answered.

  With the hunters gone, I finally felt safe enough to return to New Orleans. After that, Daron might show me San Francisco. And then, the world awaited. For a demon used to roaming alone, the idea of traveling with my sexy partner thrilled me. Oh, what sensual opportunities awaited us…

  “Can’t say I’m going to miss you,” the gargoyle said with a hint of amusement.

  “Don’t worry. We’ll be back one day. This place has special meaning to us.” I tapped his forearm. “Thanks to you.”

  “Stop whatever it is you’re doing and leave.” He pointed to the exit. “Don’t cause a scene this time.”

  Daron and I exchanged a playful glance, and I couldn’t suppress a giggle. “You should be thanking us. Look at how happy everyone is.” With all the seductive happenings, no one was complaining. I turned to Daron. “I know of a great sex club in Providence—without any interfering guards.”

  “Let’s go.” Daron gave a mock salute to the gargoyle. “Until next time.”

  “I wouldn’t count on returning.” The gargoyle smirked.

  Daron took my arm and led us out the club. Once outside, he kissed my neck and then murmured, “Who needs a sex club? There’s an alley nearby with a fire escape we found quite suitable before.” He moved his lips to brush my ear. “And satisfying.”

  How could I forget? “Ah yes,” I agreed. “Those mortals could use a reminder of how hot their relationships can be.”

  He pulled me close and glanced at me. “Indeed, my sexy little succubus. We’re just the demons for the task.”

  “And, why not live up to our naughty reputations?”

  Daron agreed with that sexy half-smile that drove me wild and then he lowered his mouth to mine.

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  An Excerpt from Tempted by the Gargoyle

  Stone Sentries #1

  By Lisa Carlisle

  An eclipse of the red Supermoon.

  Humans hype the event as a night of passion,

  But, the gargoyles sense a threat...

  Larissa, a police officer, wants nothing to do with the event pushing soulmates, but her friend convinces her they need a night out to move on. It will be their first night dancing since the attack. When they visit a gothic-themed club, Larissa catches an attractive stranger watching her.

  Roman, commander of the Stone Sentries, patrols from a Boston rooftop. When a blast of dark magic soars past him, he attributes it to a brunette. Something about her is different, demanding all senses be on high alert.

  Is she dangerous? Or is she in danger?

  Roman tracks Larissa to find out...

  "If you haven't read Ms. Carlisle's books, what the heck are you waiting for. Her Gargoyles are hot! Before you know it, you'll be lost in a world beyond your imagination. Full of wicked fun and tempting Alphas."

  "Wowzer... she had me hooked from the beginning and there was no way I was putting it down."

  "So thrilling, action packed, and romantic." "Plus, hey, it's Boston, cops, and gargoyles..."

  "Omg! Omg! Let me start by saying that! This book is exactly what I have been waiting for!... These two characters had such great chemistry, that I can completely see a future for them in series form, and I for one cannot wait for that to happen!"

  Tempted by the Gargoyle is perfect for fans of action-packed, steamy, and suspenseful stories.

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  Read Now

  Excerpt

  While surveying the city from above, a dark-haired woman on the roof caught Roman’s attention. She stood ramrod-straight and she fidgeted with her glass. Something about her discomfort triggered his gargoyle instincts, making him observe her more closely.

  When he scanned her from head to toe, he didn’t gain any insight other than how attractive she was. Her hair was rich and lush, flowing in loose waves over her shoulders. It had a burgundy tone from the various lighting fixtures around the deck. Her wide eyes searched her surroundings. What was she looking for? His gaze traveled down her body, studying how well it was encased in a form-fitting black dress. He lingered on her killer curves, fueling his imagination with sordid fantasies of what it would be like to touch them.

  He snapped his ey
es away. He was supposed to be gauging what had set off his senses.

  Seconds later, his gaze returned to her, despite his admonition to himself. Her expression turned troubled. A strong reaction rose within him, one he couldn’t read. He rubbed the back of his neck. Something about her put all his senses on edge; he had to keep an eye on her, although he had no indication why.

  She spoke to a blonde woman next to her, and he turned his head to focus on their conversation. With all the chatter in the room, he couldn’t catch it, despite his acute sense of hearing.

  What troubled the brunette? An instinct to protect her kicked in. The pull toward her was compelling, a sensual onslaught that overpowered him.

  Remember why you’re here.

  He stepped back, both mentally and physically separating himself from the woman, and shielded himself behind the bar. That compulsion was one he’d never experienced, and not knowing what it meant bothered him all the more. All the uncertainty about tonight had him on edge.

  Turning away, he gulped in the cool night air. It invigorated him for only a moment. What hit him next almost knocked him off his feet—a sudden whoosh of energy. It blasted past him with immense force and power, indicative of dark magic.

  A gut feeling made him turn to locate the brunette, and he scrutinized her. He sensed something unusual about her than the other humans on the roof. Was she the source of that dark magic? He opened a mental link to communicate with Arto.

  There’s a woman on the roof I’m going to keep an eye on.

  Is she in danger? Or is she dangerous? Arto asked.

  Good question. That’s what I plan on finding out. I sensed dark magic and will investigate further.