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Chapter Text

‘My liege had summoned me to her side, and I had to go.’  

That line could be from a medieval sitcom or a fantasy novel, but no, sadly, and to my most unfortunate misfortune, it was the reality of my life. I had bargained my soul for the power to save my daughter, and Mab, Queen of Air and Darkness had answered. I am Harry Dresden, P.I., ex- Wizard of the White Council and hitman (i.e. knight) of one of the most powerful entities in all the realms. Obedience was expected.  

Centuries old beings did not take into consideration that maybe I had other obligations than to heed their summons (aka a preteen daughter, a job and friends). Quasi Immortals expected lowly mortals to be at their beck and call, it was the way of the world... Thus, I hurriedly dropped Maggie (said daughter) at the Carpenters (a blessed family protected by literal Angels, why did I deserve their grace I would never know) and opened a portal to cross into the Nevernever.   

Time went by differently there; hence I did not know when I would come back. In addition, my boss hadn’t specified the reason for my presence, so this could be a mission as short as delivering a letter to an ally or, on the other hand, a month-long quest to find the perpetrator of an affront and setting an example. I crossed my fingers that this was simply a request for a chat. Those were never fun either, but at least I could probably have time to come back and make supper...  

After the events of the last few months, (a Titan was imprisoned on an island I was the Guardian of and Chicago was destroyed), my Queen had been busy rebuilding alliances, putting in line those who wouldn’t follow and generally enforcing the Accords (think U.N. but with one dictator that had no issue punishing those who did not stand behind her). I was doing the liaison between most parties involved, including to my ‘fiancée’, one Lara Raith, the de facto monarch of the White Court of Vampires... (beings that fed on human emotions and were merged with a demonic entity inside of them). It was an understatement to say that I wasn’t very enthusiastic about the prospect of my upcoming wedding.    

My nuptials were approaching rapidly and, even if I was doing my best to suppress any thoughts about them (except on how to weasel my way out), it was becoming harder and harder to avoid their sad reality. My heart had been shredded into tiny pieces (yet again) less than a year ago; my best friend and true love had perished in one of the most stupid ways possible... I still missed her, so so much... I hadn’t recovered from that blow, crying myself to sleep at night more often than not...  

Nonetheless, I was expected to submit. The importance of building strong alliances was much more critical to my Queen than my feelings on the matter. Free will was a theoretical idea for the Fay and concepts such as love were foreign to them. On the other hand, however, they couldn’t lie, and their words were as good as binding. Not that they weren’t experts at twisting everything to their benefices, the letter of the law (not the spirit) was the only principle that mattered in their world. I had the Mantle of Winter, I had no way out, unless I wanted to be tortured endlessly for centuries to come while everyone I cared about became hunted for sports.   

I had seen what had been done to my predecessor who betrayed his purpose. Winter was harsh and merciless. Its representatives were embodiment of its core qualities. I did not expect to be able to appeal to clemency. However, this wasn’t the problem; pain did not scare me. It wasn’t a threat as much as it could be for most other mortals. I was used to it in most of its forms, mentally or physically. I had been trained to endure it. I would sacrifice my life without any second thought if it could save someone much more deserving, and those were many. Nonetheless, over my four decades of life, I had made a lot of powerful enemies that wouldn’t hesitate to take revenge on everyone I ever cared about. This, I could not abide. Thus, I was stuck in an arranged marriage where neither the groom nor bride wanted to fulfill their roles. (Lara knew I was too much trouble for what I was worth).  

Hence, here I was, standing in the heart of Winter, waiting for the pleasure of my Queen to receive me. I had been brought in a corridor near an antechamber by what I recognized as one of Mab’s lady-in-waiting. I was fully armed (gun and staff) and underdressed in a T-shirt and jeans. Since I hadn’t been brought to the throne room, I reflected that this summon was probably for a delicate mission (which was unlikely as too many eyes were on me all the time nowadays, and I wasn’t known for my diplomatic skills) or a conversation which was what I had hoped for.     

The door suddenly opened by itself, and I did not wait to be invited in, too curious about the meaning of this and thinking that the sooner I was done, the sooner I could go back home.   

Mab was sitting at a desk, resplendent in a navy-blue dress with silver highlights, crystals shimmering in her hair, reflecting the lights and creating a crown over her head in their illumination. She seemed pleased at my presence, so I assume I wasn’t in too much trouble.   

“Come attend me, my knight. I need to speak to you.”  

Nodding, I obligingly approached, genuflecting in respect, my head now at the same level as my Queen (that’s what happened when you’re two meters tall, if I stay standing, it would be seen as an offence due to my height).  

“I have learned that you are still unable to consummate your wedding night despite my request that you solve this issue.”  

Hell’s Bell. I had been wrong. I was in MAJOR troubles. Have I mentioned how disobedience wasn’t really an option considering whose interests I was supposed to serve? I was protected from being fed on by true love, the only thing preventing my dear fiancée from mind whamming me and sucking my soul dry at every touch. Lara and I wore gloves on all our arranged dates to avoid any incidents (she knew about my predicament), so I wonder who snitched on us. But this wasn’t the time to investigate... I hastily came up with an excuse.    

“I have plenty of time still... this isn’t a problem... nothing to worry about...”  

Mab waved me aside to interrupt whatever other justification I could come up with. “I did not. The word of Winter cannot be betrayed. However, you will be glad to learn that there was an opportunity that presented itself and I already agree on your behalf. What is your mortal expression... Two birds with one stone. This arrangement helps fulfill our cause in many ways. This is why you are here today. I will witness the proceedings to make sure the parties stay true to their words. Follow me.”  

And she gracefully rose from her position, already heading to another adjoining room, leaving me stunned on the floor in shock. In the thousand possible scenarios I could have come up with, I never would have expected to be here to ‘sport’ with a random lady. I wasn’t ready!!! I doubt I could have sex even if this was my choice, especially with a witness to bout. Everything related to physical intimacy was too painful a memory. I hadn’t even masturbated in all those months. It wasn’t in my habit anyways. I was never into casual sex, it never resonated with me and the few partners I ever had were all women I had respected and known for years.  

I was angry. This was so fucking typical. Getting involved in my personal matters like that. Despite my known reluctance, I was going to find a way to settle the matter without outside interference. It was simply that the method had not occurred to me yet.  I didn’t want someone’s ‘help’ even less from the cause of my plight. Assuming I will do as she said as if this wasn’t something deeply important. Consent was fundamental. As if wanting a relationship connecting two people and not acting like two wild animals breeding for fun wasn’t deserving of respect. I was in a panic; my partner was probably in the room next door. Maybe they did not want to be there either. After all I had endured, I would rather die than force myself on someone. I wanted to flee. I wanted to lash out at the injustice of the world. Destroyed everything around me. Hide in a corner and never come back.    

I started to flare up, unable to process the turmoil of my emotions. Normally, this could be dangerous for anyone in my vicinity, but Mab’s level of power was on a realm of its own, on par with gods. I wasn’t worried about potential damage. Despite the gravity of the situation, she probably saw my behavior as comparable to a child’s tantrum. The area around me was covered in ice. I was clenching my fists, rings digging into my skin until I bled.  The pain grounded me somehow.   

My Queen turned around, incomprehension in her eyes. “I thought you would be satisfied that the matter was going to be resolved for you. Isn’t that not the case?”   

I managed to mumble something coherent under my breath.  “No, not this way.”  

She probably figured out that I wasn’t in a state to perform for her entertainment and whoever else was there. Wonder what gave that away (rolls eyes). Therefore, and more importantly to her, I was unable to fulfill her promise to that unknown party. Her words were at stake. If that wasn’t enough reason to make me suffer her wrath, I didn’t know what else could. Hence, she came back into the room, towering over me since I had fallen back on my butt on the floor (not the most dignified position, I know, but she’s seen me in much more compromising situations). A dangerous glitter flashing in her emerald eyes.    

Uncharacteristically, however, she used a calm voice and tried to justify herself instead of blasting me through the walls. “If my presence during these proceedings is the issue; need I remind you that I have seen you naked multiple times, even taking you for myself once. The other party rightfully knows of your volatile temperament and wanted some reassurance. It was a reasonable request. I doubt you would want the Winter Lady to be the witness. Knowing your common past I do not think that imposing this task on her would be a wise choice. Your godmother is away. Hence, it stands to reason that I should be the one, few can contain you if you decide to be difficult. I failed to understand what your dilemma is.”  

I tried to argue my point. “Sex shouldn’t be done lightly.”  

I sensed that she was refraining from sounding too exasperated when she pulled me up by the chin, examining me as if I was acting weird. “Another mortal qualm I assume. You belong to Winter, Harry. The lessons should have stuck by now. Nevertheless, I was considerate of your needs. What I’m asking of you shouldn’t be too difficult since I thought of your preferences before agreeing; your future sporting partner is of pleasing appearance, humanoid even, and has the required mortality to break the curse. They have also agreed to my conditions for your safety. So, you see, I was heedful of you. You should enjoy my gift instead of worrying about petty concerns.”  

Empty Nights! She freaking thought she was doing me a favor... aligning my interests with hers... What was I supposed to answer to that!!! She was even taking my hands to cure my wounds while she was speaking to me as if she really cared about my wellbeing... How could I argue my point with an immutable entity that had an alien set of morality and ethics?   

While I was figuring out how to best approach this conundrum, the little hamster in my head turning in infinite, pointless circles, Mab brought me down to her level with a hand behind my neck and forcefully sealed my lips with hers. My shock at that out-of-nowhere action was probably the reason why I stayed unmoving under the assault, and didn’t protest as I should have.  

She was kissing me!!! Applying her lips on mine with a passion that defied logic as if she was trying to devour my soul for real this time. And then it was too late, I couldn’t move away even if I wanted to. Her delicate hand on my waist was enough to restrain me from escaping her clutches.   

She was an ethereal beauty, with curves in all the right places, and I had been abstinent for a long time. Of course, my body reacted accordingly. That didn’t mean I was into it!!! Even if after a few seconds, my own lips parted on their own and a little moan escaped me, it didn’t equate that I was enjoying this!  

However, my Queen probably got the wrong idea, and this was why she chose to deepen her embrace. Her tongue entwined with mine; taking even more control. I stood there like a fool, still reeling from what was happening to me. I didn’t recognize myself in my passivity at the proceedings. I was stronger than this!  

I felt a bit of saliva dripping on my chin and that little drool was enough to bring me back to reality.  

I pushed myself away, wiping my mouth with my sleeve at the same time. Why did she let me go? Why was she doing this? Shouldn’t she be angry I refused her advances? I was so confused…  

However, and to my stupefaction, Mab was looking at me with a satisfied and, dare I say, smug look on her face when she declared: ”This should help you with your limitations.”  

What?   

Chapter Text

My confusion must have been evident because she continued with her explanation. “Your reticence was not entirely unexpected. I am used to you being difficult even if it is for your own good. This is just a precaution, so Winter isn’t put in a precarious position because of your poor judgement.”  

Catching on I exclaimed, outraged: “You drugged me!”  

“Nothing so common as that, I doubt most aphrodisiacs would work on you for the required time it would take to satisfy our ally. Poisonous substances have a lot less effect on your constitution than a regular mortal due to your Mantle. You would have overcome the effects too rapidly.”   

Uncaring about the consequences of raising my tone against the monarch of this domain, I yelled, even more angrily. “Then, What. Did. You. Do. To. Me?”  

If I didn’t know better, it looked like she was shrugging in a non-caring way, her tone hadn’t even changed when she replied, clearly unimpressed by my outburst: “Nothing permanent. In fact, it’s already in effect. I see no point in hiding it from you, my knight. I simply blocked some inhibitions you have. From my observations over the years, I have found that concepts such as guilt and fear of regret have always prevented you from achieving your full potential. I merely suppressed those obstacles and some others from your psyche. Now, stop dawdling and come enjoy yourself.”  

I crossed my arms and stood my ground, dragging my point across. “There are other reasons why I am against this. I won’t force myself on someone.”  

And then abruptly and to my utter shock, Mab started laughing, head thrown back to the sky in merriment. She seemed infinitely younger that way.  The weight of her age and burden of her position were suddenly gone from her expression. This was the first time I had witnessed her remotely emoting some form of joy. It was an understatement to admit that I was fascinated by the display. She was beautiful. Her voice was so pure, it echoed into the deepest recess of my being, reminiscent of the clarity of a drop of dew falling on the onset of spring. It was a marvelous sound, making all pain go away.   

She raised her hand to gently stroke my face, bewitching smile preventing my brain from coming back online: “You are so precious, Harry. Such unnecessary worries. The other party is more than willing. They want you. They are very eager for this opportunity even.”  

“Huh???” I couldn’t comprehend that statement. Who could desire a banged up, covered in scars, plain giant like me? They must have a few screws loose... I remained unconvinced despite the lack of lie. Who could it be? My only guess was that it was a young, impressionable twenty-something that I had saved and that somehow had developed an unhealthy crush. It wouldn’t be the first time... But Mab wouldn’t deal with that sort of people herself...  

“The vacancy in your eyes is telling, my knight. How can you be so observant of your surroundings but so clueless when it comes to your own self.” and then she put her palm in the middle of my chest, ripping my shirt off as if it was paper. It fell to the ground, immediately forgotten because she was caressing my torso with warmth, light fingers while eyeing me up and down like a piece of meat, continuing her speech; “You are very desirable, Harry. Many parties have made offers for you in the last few years, even outside this court, and not only because of your position. However, you are MY chosen Knight and so far, I have refused on your behalf because it would devalue your worth. However, your wedding night is fast approaching, the conditions are aligned and hence this is a most auspicious time for all involved. Now, come. It’ll help you get in the mood to break this most bothersome curse.”   

And, before I could react, (my reflexes must be dull or something, how else could I explained my addled mind that made it easy for her to overcome me with a simple touch), she pressed her lips on mine again, arms around my neck to bring me even closer. Less shocked this time, I went along with the flow. I might as well enjoy it a bit since I couldn’t struggle my way out. This whole shenanigan wasn’t about the relationship between my Queen and me. Hence, not as important at the moment. The consequences could be dealt with later. I could let myself have this.  

Decision taken; I could appreciate the warmth of her touch. Despite her lips of frozen mulberries, she wasn’t cold at all. Who would have thought? She was merging her body with mine, and I now realized how little fabric her dress had. I could feel her breasts against my chest, teasing me with her hard nipples. For sure what she’d done to me before was having an effect because I was powerless again my body’s answer. My own arms when around her waist and I reciprocated her embrace in kind. I could feel the Mantle drawing a sense of satisfaction from my aggressivity. It had been a while since I let myself go. There were so few I couldn’t hurt with my uncontrolled-related-to-my-temper magic. It felt good to finally be able to not think about the consequences.  

We probably spent a few minutes exchanging saliva when she was the one who let me go, not even a hair out of place, while I was panting like a dog in heat, dick hard and pulsing and probably looking like a mess. I was ready alright. If that was the goal, then she achieved it...My haziness probably explained how easily she dragged me through the room next door.  

Once inside, I was glad to note that my earlier guess had been correct, and this was indeed a bedroom. A giant bed was at its center, satin sheets and numerous pillows making the atmosphere ready for a very decadent setting. I was almost at the point of convincing myself that I could do this (probably too much blood flew away from my brain), when my ardors were stalled as fast as they had come when I saw who else was in the room.    

“Didn’t expect you to be so eager, Dresden.”  

Fucking hell. Baron John freaking Marcone was standing there, leaning back on a wall, arm crossed and visibly amused, his annoying, smug smile clearly expressing how entertained he was at my state. Surprisingly, (I swear I noticed because it was so unusual, not because I cared what clothes he wore) he wasn’t dressed in his typical business suit, having chosen instead a pair of dark slacks and a tight green polo, the same shade as his eyes.  

I acted like the mature one this time, not yelling that it certainly wasn’t for him, too furious to be even ashamed by my near nakedness. I had finally figured out over the last few months (yeah, I know not my fastest deduction) that Marcone had always been entertained by my sense of repartee even when it was directed against him. During our last encounter (when I had to play messenger and deal with some paperwork regarding the transfer of my castle) I had ignored his provocations and allusions, dealing with him very politely (even if I had to clench my teeth during fifteen excruciating minutes). I am certain that threw him out of his game, though it was hard to assess with his perfect, constant poker face. I was going to do the same here. There was nothing I had to say to him.  

Nevertheless, I was certain some veins were about to pop out of my face due to his mere presence. But I managed a semblance of calm by turning my back on him and not bothering to reply, questioning my Queen instead with a mix of stupefaction and fury: “What the hell is that scumbag doing here? How could you accept him in the heart of Winter with the company he keeps? If you had to deal something of yours so I can have sex with one of his employees, I refused. I could have done that myself personally, no need to get Winter involved or bargain anything. You can’t trust a Fallen anyways.”  

I sensed Mab’s frustration mounting by a flash of warning in her eyes when she replied, still calm, however. “The Baron has agreed to let his companion aside for this dealing. This was one of the measures I mentioned, Harry. He is under guest rights and of his own free will. You know what that entails.”  

Empty Nights. Of course, I fucking knew. The Law of Hospitality were as sacred as their words for the Fay. It meant I couldn’t do anything that would threaten the security of Mab’s guest because it would bring dishonor to her name. It meant that she would have failed in her duties as Host and was therefore untrustworthy. I would be as good as dead if I dared raise my hand against Marcone...  

Meanwhile, while I was trying to figure out what his angle was, copying my attitude, Marcone ignored me and approached my Queen. He was playing at being suave when he bent over to her, offering a baisemain with his most charming smile. “Thank you for this opportunity. I hope you understand my exigence about my own protection despite your words. An accident can happen so fast, especially considering who is involved.”  

While they were exchanging pleasantries, I replayed the words he just said very slowly in my head. Wait, what, rewind that multiple times actually, was that scumbag implying what I thought he was implying? What the fuck. There was no way in the seven hells that I was going to bent over for this jerk. E.V.E.R. I wasn’t even attracted to him! No way!  He wasn’t even gay!!! This must be revenge for me stealing his castle from under his nose. Woah, who would have thought he would stoop so low to humiliate me!!! This was a bad joke. It couldn’t be anything else...  

I stumbled back onto the couch behind me, hands holding my face in denial.  

That movement interrupted their small talk and they both turned toward me. I don’t know what sort of expression I was sporting but it was enough to make Marcone stop in the middle of a sentence to stare at me. His money green eyes were trying to communicate something into mine, but I couldn’t decipher the message. I had never felt as much as a possession of Winter as I was feeling right now. What if this wasn’t a trick and I had to go through with it...  

After all I had endure, all the pain and blood, everyone who had died because of me, my dismissal from the Council, all those sacrifices to simply survive, to end up as a criminal’s bitch. I couldn’t take it. This was too much. No wonder Mab needed to be there because there was no way I was going to submit willingly. I steeled my resolve to defend myself when they were going to grab me...  

But no hands came, no magic either. Did I misinterpret?  

I raised my head in curiosity.  

Marcone was a few feet away, uncharacteristically gesticulating, seemingly restraining himself from exploding here and there due to who he was talking to. He seemed really upset. I caught on to some words because they were whispering “... this isn’t what we agreed upon... not what I wanted either...”  

Mab was glancing at me in disbelief, mostly ignoring the Baron’s rant. Why would she do that?  I was clearly missing some crucial information. What was going on?  

I stood up, using my forearms to wipe my face, damn but my eyes were wet. How could I display such weakness in front of those two? How did that happen? I must be out of my game. There were predators in front of me. They would pounce if I played victim. This was just a momentary lapse. I pushed all my feelings down. It was too late to regret how easily I’d been pushed into despair, but it wasn’t too late to take control back of the situation.    

I rose my voice to interrupt: “What have you too agreed upon, exactly?”  

Chapter Text

“This seemed evident enough, my Knight.” 

But Marcone did not seem satisfied with her answer. “Can I talk with Dresden one-on-one? I think I can resolve this misunderstanding.” 

There was a warning in her tone when she replied. “I proposed to act as a witness for your security, as a condition to proceed with our contract. I won’t renegotiate.” 

“I trust Winter to uphold its words, Harry won’t do anything to threaten that.” and he sideways glanced at me as he said it, something like pleading in his eyes. I was so surprised by the expression; I nodded in a haze to support his proclamation. There was clearly something I was missing in all of this. If Marcone was willing to risk his security at the core of Winter, the source of all my powers, then it was probably not to assault me. It would be utter suicide in his regular human state.  

Despite my dissatisfaction and disdain, I was also restrained by his status as guest. I was not gonna provoke him either unless I was in immediate danger.  I already started enough wars as it was. I sighed in resignation, sitting back down; “I would also like to hear what the Baron has to say.” 

“Be that as it may, there's still need to be a witness for the consummation, but if talking will make you more agreeable than I can allow you this favor. Let me know when this human custom is done so we may proceed.” and after those words, she walked out of the room, regal and convinced all was going to go as per her wishes.  

However, even after she left, Marcone did not take the opportunity to come any closer and rather sat on the bed, ankles and arms crossed, staring at me with something akin to apologies in his eyes.  I figured I was hallucinating because of the emotional stress and dismissed the feeling. Scumbag never felt sorry for a situation they created.  

“Harry....” 

I cut him short. “I never gave you permission to call me by my first name. Why are you here really?” 

But he deflected as usual. “Dresden then, it seemed I underestimated how the Fae may construct agreements and consent. But here we are. Please confirm something for me. Weren’t you told I was the one on the other side of the door and didn’t you agree to this?” 

“I don’t even understand what you are doing here, it’s too serious to be a bad joke, so no.” 

And at that, for the first time since I’ve known him, I witnessed Marcone lost it. He was clearly enraged, swearing in a list of expletives in what I assumed was Italian mixed with very colorful English. That lasted for a couple of minutes and, honestly, made me feel a little better that maybe there was a way out of this since it clearly sounded like he was also here on false premises.     

When he was done, he passed a hand over his face, “For the record, I was made to understand that you wanted this as well. It isn’t in my habit to force myself unto someone no matter how easy it could be.” 

And that took me a few seconds to process as I continued to stare; mouth agape in shock when I finally caught on. My way with words had left me somehow and I couldn’t articulate anything more coherent than “Huh? What?” 

He continued, undeterred, blunt and straight to the point. “With you being bisexual and flirting with me for years, I figured this was a good opportunity for everyone involved. I saw how you watched me when we changed together before that battle, and it was in that moment that I decided to chance it whenever I could. Nevertheless, there was no way either of us was going to approach the other in a public context. I definitely couldn’t for appearance's sake. Despite recent progress in that area, mine is not a domain that tolerates that type of indiscretion. After all those years, if I can never have you then it’s better this way when I also gain something in addition to my selfish enjoyment. Life is too short to wait anymore. Recent events made that painfully clear. So that’s why I am here, I want you, Harry.” 

After listening to that explanation, I was even more confused. Flirting, me? I didn’t know Fallen could twist perceptions to that extent! I protest vehemently. “I’m not gay! How did you get the idea. What the fuck, and you aren’t either.” 

He rolled his eyes. “At my age, I think I know who I am attracted to. You had a male lover for years Dresden, don’t pull this shit on me now. There is no way I ranked lower than a White Court Vampire on the ethics scale.” 

And then it clicked. Fuck, had he believed the rumors all this time about me and my brother. Empty Night, how can that come back to blow me in the face like that...  

And as calmly as I could. “There was never anything between me and Thomas, Marcone. I swear on my words as a wizard.” 

His doubtful, raised eyebrows were telling enough. He didn’t believe me... well I repeated it two other times. Marcone changed his expression at that; he knew that thrice was bonding for a wizard and how it could affect my magic very negatively if my words were unfounded.  

He still asked to confirm, incredibility marking his face; “So you never had a partner of the same sex?” 

I probably almost looked smug this time despite the context when I replied; it was rare I got one on the always-on-top-of-things Baron. “Nope.” 

More swearing in Italian.... the man even started to pace...  

If my boss wasn’t on the other side of the door waiting, I would have been amused at the discomfiture, Marcone crushing on me! Hahaha... What poor taste! I knew despite appearance, the man had a few screws loose!!! Even if my brain had a lot of troubles understanding how the good-looking mafia boss could ever be attracted to my gangly ass, it wasn’t important for now. But there was hope of getting out of this conundrum. I believed him when he said he wasn’t into non-consensual relationships. Marcone was a lot of bad stuff, but rapist wasn’t one. I had to get out of here, and that took priority over his awful sexual preferences. I could reflect later, beyond my wards, on the revelation that was dropped on me. 

I wasn’t gonna laugh at the irony though. I wasn’t that mean. Man was down enough on his luck. So, hands in my pockets, as casual as I could be. “Now that this misunderstanding has been cleared, we can all go back home. I’m sorry you had to come all the way here to find out.” 

“Madre Dio, Dresden. You have no idea do you.” 

Fear returned and I inquired: “What did you agree upon? They’re Fae, Marcone. You should know better.” 

“Too good to pass up, I should have known better, you’re right...” and very self-depreciatively, “My judgement has always been extremely poor whenever you are concerned. We did sign several pages of agreement; you were a nice bonus.”  

“It’s hard to believe you would do this for my pretty eyes only...” 

“Of course not, the agreement with Winter also includes several clauses such as members of the Court cannot pray on minors and can be killed on sight if they do. As you are aware, the recent ruins of our city are ideal hunting grounds for predators. This will help protect the future of Chicago. I cannot renegade my words, Dresden, and neither can Winter. We have to go through with this. Your Queen also added some clauses to her advantage that she extracted from me in exchange. She was very pleased when we concluded.” 

And passing a hand through his hair, obviously nervous about what he was about to say next; “I could blow you, that would probably satisfy the conditions of the contract and not be too distasteful for your taste. You could close your eyes and think about someone else if the thought of me is too awful.” 

What! Gentleman Johnny Marcone, quasi-owner of Chicago and billionaire to boot, offering to be on his knees for me, sucking my dick, while his money green-eyes were assessing my pleasure, mouth full, drool on his chin, cheeks reddened and panting. Hmmm... I shook my head to clear the image. No fucking way he was that desperate to not offend my boss. That was a trick to get me to bend over for him! Maybe Mab had played with some emotional neurons in my brain, but I wasn’t that far gone into stupidity.   

Probably noticing my disbelief, Marcone continued with his spinel; “I have so very few opportunities to indulge, I am constantly under surveillance, and my personal preferences despite their growing acceptance, will be a disaster in my field and how much I am in the spotlight. Nathan always warned me how my interests in you were unhealthy. He must be laughing so hard at my predicament right now.  

In addition, I am risking much more than you are since Mab, reasonably, did not want my magic partner to be with me at the core of Winter, so I am here as a mortal only. I was told it would help your own issues if you consummate this as well. Knowing you I doubt you could do this with a stranger.

You are very attractive, Harry. Anything you’re willing to allow me wouldn’t be a burden. I’ve been wanting this for way too many years, and I refused to believe there is not even a spark of desire on your side. Convinced yourself it’s for the greater good and let me work.” 

Before I could deny his conclusions again, my Queen chose this moment to reappear, probably judging she had given us plenty of time. By reflex, I turned my head toward her, and it gave enough time to Marcone to pull his shirt off and drop down in front of me, attacking my zipper, before I could even push him away. Mab smiled, approvingly. 

And now, there was a hand on my dick... At that tentative, light touch, I froze. Brain stalling. It did do something to my psyche that I refused to examine too closely.  I stared down. The view was fantastic, and I paused whatever gesture I was doing. I couldn’t even have imagined this in any scenarios I ever conceived. Marcone, unsurprisingly, was freaking cut; biceps and chest defined like a well-trained athlete but not too much like those bodybuilders type. He had very dark chest hair that led to a happy trail. He also had a lot of scars, almost as many as me, and my mind wondered how he had gotten them. I spaced out to take stock: a bullet hole there; a Khyber knife wound next to his abs, what looked like acid burn on the side of his ribs... by the time I came back to myself, I was hard under his hands, my cock having escaped the confine of my boxer, millimeters away from his mouth. I could even feel him breathing on it. It was warm. I closed my eyes.  

And then the warmth became much more, he was really doing this for me, mouth wet and eager. I moaned. This felt so good. It’s been so long. So freaking long. He knew what he was doing too, tongue swirling around, alternating with some sucking. Fuck, I was rapidly becoming a mess myself. 

I peeked down and immediately got lost in the darkened abyss of green lust I was witnessing. Marcone was staring at me, pleased, despite his position. Was it possible this wasn’t a trick, and he really wanted this? My hand moved on his own to rest on his hair, lightly scratching his scalp, and he closed his eyes in contentment in what I thought was a really peaceful expression. Like he was where he belonged. 

After that, it didn’t take long before I came, and he took it all, swallowing, and I would be lying if I denied that it was hot beyond belief. Hell’s Bell. He even looked like he enjoyed it too, licking his lips like the cat who got the cream. It was with a smug expression that he went back to his feet, eyes taking everything in like he was etching the memories forever in his brain.  

I was high as a kite as the endorphins did their work, but I wasn’t so far gone as to not notice that he was still hard under his slacks, bulge almost peeking over his belt. Gosh that must hurt. I felt bad. Despite the circumstances, no one could ever accused me of not being a giving partner, especially after what I just received. So, I took a step toward him to somewhat help him with his ‘issue’.  

Marcone immediately put his arm up in protection, probably in fear of retaliation, but I only smiled at him, and his eyes widened in shock at my expression. I lightly pushed him backward, and he let me, while we both ignored the other person in the room who continued to remain silent. Mab wasn't a being I could be ashamed in front of anymore. After all she made me go through while she trained me to become her knight, I was way past caring how vulnerable or awkward I could look. Marcone knew what he had gotten himself into, therefore, it was easy after that to divest him of his pants and underwear as he had fallen somewhat on the bed, naked before me. I was towering over him, unsure what to do next...