Archive of Our Own ^beta

Pensacola, Florida.  

A rapidly developing vampire colony in the western hemisphere. His nomadic wandering eventually led him here where he’d been staying for the past few weeks.

Under the new name, Seth Rollins. Along with a different appearance he had partial control over. The near platinum patch in his hair is something he developed the night after he lost everything he held dear.

As far as he was concerned the man Tyler Black died along with the rest of his family sixty years ago.

Seth picked at the lace around his sleeve watching the commotion in the town square. The hustle and bustle of vampires like himself. He nestled himself in an alleyway shielded by darkness. Never had he seen anything like this.

Torches blazed and illuminated the entire main road. Everyone dressed in their best clothes, flaunting their freshly polished gold and gems. Music played around every corner, people danced and sang in their native tongues. 

He could see the recently completed mansion (damn near castle) glow like a beacon at the top of a hill miles away.

The celebration went on for hours without an end in sight. 

Seth felt his stomach twist with hunger waiting for a human to appear. For something to finally happen. Usually a few humans were released into the streets for the lucky to feed. They still had to be rationed among them. If they were all eaten in one night, who would run the colony during the day?

Moving on wasn’t a part of his plans just yet. He enjoyed his time here the most of all the colonies he’s traveled to. Yet if food continued to be so scarce he may not have a choice.

Maybe he just got here too late and they were already claimed for the night. 

Seth sighed and stood up off the wall he leaned on. Ready to give up and return to the commune he stayed in for the time being.

That’s when horns blared joyous chords from the edge of town and everyone went running to surround the main road. Even from the rooftops people bounced and cried tears of happiness. Everyone except him. He eyed the flickering gold in their hands and the overexcited swooning of the women. You'd almost expect the king himself would come waltzing down the street. 

Confusion plagued him until his eyes locked onto them—

Humans.

Hundreds— thousands of them marching down the main road. Uniformed and obviously hypnotized. The lines on the edges held out small velvet pouches for vampires to drop their bits of gold and valuables into.

He didn’t bring anything like that, he didn’t know, and he couldn’t find a reason to feel bad about it. Not with all the heartbeats in his ears. The smell of blood in his nose from the cuffs chaffing their wrists and ankles. The raging starving twist in his gut.

Seth dug his fingernails into the brick beside him. He panted softly feeling his fangs send pulses of pain into his gums rattling his very skull.

Just one would last him days. 

One of thousands.

Seth swallowed thickly watching them literally pass him. They stunk like livestock. Their clothes were disgusting and barely distinguishable from potato sacks. Yet their necks were untouched. On display in clean pristine condition. Shifting as they marched, almost teasing them.

Seth needed one.  

Just one.

He inched closer to the edge of the alleyway. Slightly hunched over from the pain in his gut. So hungry. 

They were close enough to register each individual pulse if he focused hard enough. Close enough to grab and lock his jaw around one of their throats. Feel their fresh hot blood gush down his throat and fill his starving belly.

The passing humans made the torchlights flicker across his face. He reached his hand out to grab one.

Just one.

Surely it would be okay. There were thousands. One missing wouldn’t even be noticeable…

He’s hungry…

Seth got barely centimeters away from his sweet meal before a hand grabbed his wrist. He yelped when another clapped around his mouth and dragged him a few feet back from the alley entrance.

He bucked and writhed until his captor released him in favor of grabbing his wrists and shoving his back against the wall.

“Are you out of your mind? Are you trying to get yourself executed?” The man with short dark blonde hair scolded him underneath his breath.

“What are you talking about?” Seth hissed, “Get off me!”  

Is this guy insane? He’s barely even decent! He could see directly into his shirt! Not to mention having him pressed up against the wall like this! If anyone saw—

“Fuck, were you turned yesterday? This is a Vampirial Officiating ritual! We’re finally being recognized by the Council and receiving our Lord,” he told him, “No one is allowed to feed until tomorrow night at the feast.”

…Oh.

Seth slowly relaxed in his grip hearing this. How was he supposed to know? It wasn’t like there was a guide book to being a vampire!

“Look,” the blonde nodded his head toward the town square and pulled him back to the entrance.

Seth glanced around before his eyes widened seeing what he could only assume was vampiric royalty.

Dripping in gold and heavy gems, velvets, silks, and other high quality red fabrics. A large older vampire sat upon a throne carried by human shoulders. He waved as gold pieces and jewelry were tossed at him. Behind him trailed the equally extravagant members of his party.

He stood next to the other vampire star struck watching them pass. Sandwiched between the parade of humans. It’s the most majestic thing he’s ever seen.

For a split second his eyes met one of them. Tall, long ink black hair, young and soft face. He dressed the most like the man upon the throne. Silk red breeches, black intricately engraved leather doublet, and a bulky full-length cape. He is gorgeous.

Then the second was over and he came colliding with reality again.

“Who was that?” Seth whispered to the vamp next to him.

“Probably the heir to the throne,” he whispered back before turning to face him, “Dean Ambrose.”

“Seth Rollins.”

Dean smirked softly as he inspected him, “...Can I ask about the clothes? The whisk and overgown?”

Seth hummed as he overlooked himself. His white whisk is embroidered with gold and black thread and pearls. The matching fur-lined and lace overgown he wore with the rest of his outfit is his most prized possession.

“What about it?” He responded with his own question. He liked what he liked. “Did you just roll out of bed or are you trying to advertise to everyone who has eyes?”

Wearing only a half buttoned cotton shirt, canvas work pants and riding boots is certainly a choice for a night like this.

Dean opened his mouth but decided to close it and shake his head, “No, just— all those layers are too constricting. I like to move.”

“Then you can give them to me, and I’ll wear them for you,” Seth smirked.

Dean smiled back at him, and before he could even respond the horns went off again. Vampires filled the square in front of the chapel, more for human use rather than theirs. Its crosses were sawed off haphazardly at different angles for their protection.

Dean grabbed his hand and pulled him into the crowd. Seth doubled down and practically wrapped himself around his arm. He didn’t want to be left alone in a sea of people, and he still only knew half of what was going on. Dean is all he had.

“Ladies and gentlemen!” A shorter round vampire raised his voice over the crowd, “My name is Paul Heyman and it is my pleasure to be your official council man chosen by our Vampiric Council to serve underneath our reigning Lord, Sika Anoa’i and his Bloodline!”

Seth gripped onto Dean tighter as the crowd erupted. Brushing against him and squeezing them closer together. He didn’t cheer and neither did the other.

Why?

“As you can see, our Lord has graciously gathered a feast for us to enjoy tomorrow night,” Heyman gestured to the humans marching their way up to the estate, “All are welcomed in their best attire. You will all be able to personally bow before your Lord and his already chosen heir.”

Seth’s stomach did flips when he pointed out the dark haired vampire again. Dean was right. They locked eyes with a prince. What did that mean? If anything at all. Suddenly it felt too fairytale-like. None of it was meant for him, he should have long realized nothing good happens to him.

The council man finished his speech with wishing prosperity to Pensacola and a vow to serve and protect vampire kind. By any means necessary. Seth shivered at the sentiment for some reason. Like it was some kind of threat.

“I don’t trust them,” Dean murmured beside him as the surrounding vampires began to disperse before daybreak.

“Yeah?” Seth responded just as quietly. He didn’t know what to make of it just yet.

Seth grunted when someone shoved their shoulder into him. Nearly knocking him over if it weren’t for Dean, “Hey—!” 

The other vampire chuckled deeply as he walked away, “Get out your sister’s closet and put on some real clothes, fairy. Take your turnie tramp too.”

“You sonuvabitch—” Dean riled up before Seth stopped him from going after that asshole.

“Relax, it isn’t worth it,” he murmured, rolling his shoulder, “I uhm— I guess this is it.”

A switch flipped in the other and his bright blue eyes met him again, “Huh? Where are you staying?”

“In a commune on the edge of town. I can live there in exchange for repairing whatever clothes get brought into us,” Seth shrugged softly. It wasn’t much, but it beat burning up in the sunlight.

“Nuh-uh, you’re coming to stay with me tonight. I live right around the corner.”

Seth recoiled at that, shaking his head, “No, its—”

“Look, we don’t know what kind of ruling this Lord is gonna do yet, but if people feel comfortable doing that already— I don’t trust you getting back safely,” Dean cut him off.

“I can protect myself.” He enunciated. Just because he didn’t want to start a fight doesn’t mean he couldn’t win one.

“I don’t doubt it, but people like us need to stick together,” he said, eyeing the bite marks peeking from underneath his whisk.

Seth clenched his jaw and moved his hair to block the marks from view. First this guy shows up from out of nowhere and, admittedly, saves his ass. Now he wants him to go back to his place with him? Because “people like them should stick together”. What if he’s the one he shouldn’t be trusting?

He’d hate to hurt his feelings, but people have been treating him like that long before tonight. That’s just how it was sometimes.

“I don’t know, Dean—”

“Just until tomorrow night. I have another bedroom you can stay in. I can tell you more about the vampiric feast and whatever else you need to know.”

Seth chewed at the inside of his cheek, looking at him. Dean remained unmoving as he waited for his answer. His blue eyes boring into his brown ones. He eventually released a little sigh and nodded. A small ‘okay’ left his lips.

Dean smiled and grabbed his hand again. Leading him along.

*******

Vampiric feast.

Seth couldn’t decide whether Dean invited him over just to make sure he was safe or if he also needed someone to help him dress for the occasion. 

He glanced over at Dean in the carriage they rode into the estate. They used lard with a bit of lavender oil to slick his hair back. A black jerkin is the best he could do with Dean’s need to breathe and move. The rest simply felt into place after that.

He looked very handsome. Much nicer than last night. Seth tried to match him on the extravagance level. Mellowing it down to a black doublet he embroidered himself with sleeves that opened into large bell shapes. A lace collar and heels also helped him still feel like himself.

Dean eventually caught him staring, and he quickly turned his head away from him, digging his fang into his bottom lip. 

…

“How did you get your hair like this?” 

Seth flinched when he felt him run his fingers through the blonde streak in his hair.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” Dean mumbled. 

He tilted away from the digits in his hair and the other took the hint putting his hand back down. It made him uncomfortable and jumpy to have people’s hands in his hair.

“It uhm— started growing like this the night after I was turned,” he answered.

“Yeah? How was that for you?” The other vampire tilted his head innocently. He was just trying to make conversation, Seth knew that. This just wasn’t a conversation he wanted to have with someone he just met.

“I'd rather not talk about it if you don’t mind.”

Dean nodded and turned his head away from him, “It happened to me on the ship here… I was— in some deep legal shit back home, so I stowed away with a group of humans I saw at the port. One night just before we reached our destination the captain brought us up to the main deck and picked out the strongest among the group. The vampires we didn’t realize we were working for turned us and the rest— were food. I ended up killing the first real friend I’ve ever had that night.”

“I’m sorry,” Seth told him earnestly. 

Dean hummed, shrugging softly, “That was seventy years ago now. Saltwater and sunlight bleaches hair. Not like yours, but I couldn’t help thinking of him either way.”

He nodded as he twisted the end of his hair around his finger, “...So— how old are you?”

“One hundred, you?”

“Ninety. I was born on the other side of Florida." 

Dean grinned, huffing softly, “That’s a long time wandering around without knowing what an Officiating ritual is.”

“Well, maybe you should write a book ‘How to be a Vampire’ and make sure everyone gets one after they die,” Seth teased back with a smile.

The carriage came to a bit of a bumpy stop and Seth felt the nerves settle in with the hunger in his gut. Human servants immediately opened the doors for them causing him to grimace from the sudden light. 

As soon as his vision cleared Seth felt a little gasp leave his lips as he stepped out onto the cobblestone pathing. The courtyard mansion stood three stories tall and completely out of brick. Over forty windows just in the front and perfectly manicured plants. Stars twinkled above, and the moon beamed bright and full.

He really felt like he was walking into a castle.

Seth bit into his bottom lip glancing around at the other vampires arriving with them. Their shiny gold and jewels and expensive bright fabrics. It made him feel small. All of this made him feel small and insignificant. 

He hated it.

He wanted more. 

He wanted to feel like more.

“Hey—” Dean stood in front of him, holding an unclasped gold necklace. 

“Where did you get this?” He asked him, running his fingers over the dainty chain links. They were thinner than a sail needle.

“Found it. Stole it. Does it make a difference?” Dean already wrapped it around his neck before he could refuse, “I saw you looking at all the gold. Not really my thing but you—” he took a step back when he finished putting it on him, “It suits you.”

Seth felt a flustered smile force its way across his lips, bucking his head away from him, “Uh— thank you.”

“Come on, let’s get inside.”

*******

“Any of them tickle your fancy, son?”

Roman hummed scanning over the ballroom. Half filled with vamp-borns, the other turnies. The split between the two is quite obvious. Vamp-borns were offered samples of congealed blood and a choice of what humans they fed from. The turnies were made to wait for the leftovers.

Ample seating was given to vamp-borns while turnies were made to sit wherever they could.

He knew that his father was referring to the vamp-borns that filled the room. He also knew he particularly meant the women who could give him an heir. The man went on and on about how long it took to conceive him. His only heir. If he had the heart to sell him off when he was 50, he would've. To whoever was willing to pay the most for their daughter to marry into one of the closest families to the Vampiric Council.

Roman, however, had his mind on something else. Someone else… Maybe two.

Hopefully they showed tonight. On the vamp-born side for his father’s sake but it didn’t matter to him. 

“Not yet,” he mumbled, brushing his hand along his velvet cape.

His father shifted irritatedly and Roman prepared himself for whatever he had to say, “You’re long past due for at least marriage, Roman. You look like a fool standing up there by yourself.”

He clenched his jaw hearing those words come out of his father's mouth. He kept his face stoney as he stared at the wall opposite of them.

“You will start to get looks the longer this goes on.” His father continued, “That reflects on me and our entire family— you disrespect our family with this foolishness. I have given you everything and this is what you do in return? You become an embarrassment?”

An embarrassment. Huh.

“I'll take care of this tonight since I have to do everything for you.”

Roman didn't respond. He felt the skin on the inside of his cheek tear from how hard he bit into it.

Seth slowly began to understand Dean’s sentiments more and more the moment they walked it. In fact, it started right at the door. When the guard grabbed his collar without so much of a word to inspect his neck. He saw the bite marks there and pointed them in a different direction than the others.

The other path had servants that led those vampires to their seats. Well lit and pleasant. Lively with chatter.

The one they followed didn't have anyone but guards. It felt colder and uneasy. Like they expected them to act uncivilized or something.

“You see what I mean now?” Dean leaned closer to whisper.

“Yeah…” Seth sighed softly. 

It isn't his first time experiencing separation like this, but this is definitely the worst it's been. He tried not to let it distract him from the beauty of this place. Deep rich mahogany floors, large candle lit chandeliers, thick towering wooden support beams, and so much art.

He'd die again just to experience this every day. With his baby girl running up and down the halls and his precious Esme taking her time with the art every morning.

What he’d do to get them back…

Seth slowed to a stop to look up at the massive painting of Lord Sika’s heir on the wall. Dean stopped with him crossing his arms over his chest. 

“You think we’ll get close to him?” Seth asked in a wispy voice.

“Probably not,” Dean answered, “And if we did, he’d probably turn his nose up at us like everyone else. He’s spoiled royalty, Seth. Don’t fall for the pretty face.”

The younger vampire hummed thoughtfully before he started following Dean again.

They made it to the ballroom and Dean scanned the area for an open table. The space is still divided. Vamp-borns and turnies. The smell of fresh blood filled his nose and reignited that flame of hunger in his gut to a raging wildfire. Yet all the red liquid is on the vamp-born side.

He didn’t want to risk his life to get a taste.

“I see an empty table over there,” Dean pointed out a spot almost right on the line between spaces.

Seth nodded, and they moved their way through the tightly packed tables. A single candle sat in front of them when they took their seats. Light music played in the background and at the very end of the room sat Lord Sika and his family on a raised platform.

Heavy maroon curtains draped floor to ceiling around them with a grand chandelier above. Gorgeous, everything here is.

Not once in his life did he think he’d be able to sit in a room like this.

“First time?”

Seth snapped to attention and tilted his head at Dean.

“In a place like this?” He added.

“Oh— yeah!” Seth held up his hand to show him the gold wedding band on his finger, “I worked damn near seven days a week for two years straight to afford this when I was seventeen… If that tells you anything.”

“You’re married?” Dean grabbed his hand, studying the jewelry.

Seth frowned a little, slowly pulling his fingers back, “Widower. Childbirth.”

“And the baby?”

He clenched his jaw looking off into the little flame flickering in front of them. Christ, this guy doesn't hold back anything, does he?

A spoon clinked against glass and a voice cascaded over every other in the room.

“Our esteemed guest!” Heyman greeted with a bright smile across his face.

Saved by the bell. 

Seth turned and eyed the heir and his father up on the platform. Mainly the heir. 

Bright reds seemed to be a theme for them. That and long hair. The prince’s extended past his chest. It shined and flowed with gentle waves. So soft and full. Seth chewed at the inside of his cheek running his fingers through his own blonde strands. 

He wondered if he’d think his hair was strange like others did. Well, others not including Dean.

“Lord Sika has asked me to announce that tonight isn’t just a vampiric feast— but also a sacred courting ceremony for his heir, Roman Reigns.”

Seth’s eyes widened as did the man’s on the stage. Roman looked over at his father in shock as the room buzzed to life again. Mainly the women who were nearly bursting at the seams. 

Uh—

“Christ, we should get out of here,” Dean mumbled irritatedly.

“No!”  

Dean flinched and Seth paused when his voice came out louder than he meant for it to, “I-I don’t wanna go yet, I— I just wanna see everything.”

He knew he had no chance with Roman; that wasn’t the reason he wanted to stay. He just— didn’t want to go back to his lonely, insignificant life just yet. He’s hooked on extravagance. Feeling grand and important. 

Even if he got the bare minimum treatment it’s a high from his normal life.

He never wanted it to end.

“By the end of the night Roman will choose a suitable bride. In the meantime— allow the feast to commence!”

“Finally,” Dean sighed, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned back in his chair.

The side doors burst open on both sides and in-filed the humans. They were clean now. Naked and freshly branded with an S.A.

Sika Anoa’i.

Sika owned their blood, and he’s offering it to them.

Seth could smell all the fresh deep wounds. His leg began to bounce underneath the table trying to keep it under control. Of course, vamp-borns got to choose their meals, which meant they got whatever was left.

Skinny, sickly, short, old.

At this point he didn’t care. It feels like he's going to lose his mind if he doesn't sink his teeth into something right now. He's so fucking hungry.

Seth perked up when his human knelt down beside him. Another one did the same for Dean beside him.

He could hear her heartbeat and the blood rushing in her veins. They were calm. 

Seth stared at her neck, grinding his teeth slightly. His chest tightened with anticipation. He couldn’t control the bouncing in his leg even if he tried. Her blood is so close. Hot and pumping strong through her body.

Seth reached out to touch her neck when he heard a shuffle behind him then felt cold liquid spill on top of him.

On top of them.

He let out a little breath looking down at the blood and chunks dripping down from his head. His painstakingly hand embroidered doublet stained to hell. Dean didn't get as much of it as he did, but it still ruined his clothes. Some of the only nice clothes he had.

The vamp-born who caused the servant to drop their tray on top of them (by accident or not) gave a little ‘oh’ before she turned around and began to laugh with the rest of her table.

Seth wiped the blood from his eye as Dean stood up abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor. He didn’t say a word as he held out his hand to him. Seth stared at it for a moment.

This is all his fault. 

He wanted to stay and now look what happened.

…

Seth ducked his head from him and grabbed his hand to go wherever. It doesn’t matter as long as it isn't here. He even lost his appetite for the night.

Dean led them to the exit. His hand gripped onto his gently. He didn’t understand why he still tried to keep him around.

He’s better off alone, and he doesn't doubt that Dean is better off that way too. 

Seth curled in on himself slightly. Everyone is watching, everyone is looking. Not in a good way. Not in the way he wanted. It was ridiculous to imagine getting a taste of that. He had no business being here. 

“I'm sorry,” he murmured to Dean.

“You have no reason to be.”

Seth was about to open his mouth again before a hand grabbed his other wrist and stopped them both in their tracks. They whipped around to see— him.

Roman Reigns. 

Up close. So close. He’s literally touching him. 

He could see his razor sharp fangs on top and the smaller ones on the bottom. They rattled him for a second.

He's only ever seen that one other time from the man who turned him. They're terrifying.

The vamp-born panted softly as he looked between them, “Come with me... I'll get something for you two to change into.”

The room went from dead silent to chanting with whispers and hushed voices. Appalled and confused faces.

Seth stares at him, looking him in the eyes for anything that could signal this is a joke. He's risking his royal reputation. Maybe even more than that for two people he saw for barely a second the night before. Yet there's not even the slightest tic in Roman's eyes. He looks back at him in a pleading way. Like he might shatter if they said no.

Seth hesitantly flicks his gaze over to Dean, and he meets him with the same distrustful expression. After everything they've just experienced—

What would Roman Reigns want with them?

Still another part of him screams, this is his chance. Everything he fantasized about this evening could become his reality if he just took it. Roman is the key to showing all these pompous fucks that he’s just as good as them. Hell, he could be even better than them.

If he just said yes…

“Seth—”

Dean gripped his hand while Roman’s cuffed his opposite wrist.

…

“Okay,” he finally answered. 

Roman smiled softly and Seth returned it. Dean brushed against his shoulder sticking as close to him as possible. He didn’t seem as happy but it still felt good. Better than he's felt in a long time.

“Uh— this way,” Roman flustered and let go of his wrist to lead them, “I'll have a meal brought to us too.”

*******

“In the thousands of years it has taken to build this family to the point it is now, my son decides to ruin it in one night in some childish act to upset me.” Sika lets out an exasperated laugh, “Turnies— of all things…”

“Well, Lord Sika—”

“I want them executed. Publicly.”

Heyman jumped at that, taking a few steps closer, “Lord Sika! I-I understand your anger, sir, but this is a very delicate situation!” He watched as the other man slowly turned to face him. Heyman swallowed thickly until Sika tilted his head to invite his counsel. 

“Roman is your only heir to the throne! If you punish him that harshly, he will continue to do what he can to rebel against you. Soon you could end up in a war with your own son and his current infatuation with turnies gives him allies you do not have!” Heyman placed his hand on his chest, dipping his head slightly, “Allow me to handle this. He is simply a confused boy… Given guidance and patience he will come into his Lordship. He is your flesh after all.”

Sika eyed him as he thought over his request, “And how do you plan on taking care of the other two?”

“They will take care of themselves,” he waved his hand dismissively, “Allow the boy to have his fun with his new pets. Things like this are never bound to last! Roman’s grooming must be a slow process, one he doesn’t even notice until there’s no going back.”

Heyman smiled up at him, clasping his hands together, “Lord Sika, I can assure you— your family will be left in good hands when the time comes... Roman Reigns will be the one to take this Bloodline further than anyone could imagine.”

He is going to make sure of it. Roman will be a Lord of his creation.

Lord Sika worked his jaw a bit before he nodded and turned away from him. “...I’ll let you see to it then.”

*******

One-hundred-year anniversary.

Light music played in the background as Roman finished off his glass of blood. Virgin, of course, only the best for the occasion.

Seth begged for a ball to celebrate and who was he to deny a chance to show off his brightest gem. His greatest success.

His beloved.

“Seth is absolutely gorgeous, your highness. I love what you've done with him.”

“He is perfect, your highness. So well-trained. Congratulations.”

“Your turnie is such a doll. You should be proud, your highness.”

Roman soaked it in. Holding his head high to every compliment whispered to him in passing. He deserved it for all the work he's put into this. Into them . Crowds moved for him as he made his way to the center of the room. The chatter and ‘ah’s picked up the closer he got. Until they parted enough for him to see who’s at the center of all this attention.

Seth cackled with the other noble men and women that nearly surrounded him. Graceful and elegant like a walking piece of art. Roman took a moment to stare like everyone else around him.

Seth's scarlet frock coat draped all the way to the mahogany floors. The back split into layers of ruffled white lace almost resembling a dress. The blonde streak he met him with had since grown out leaving midnight black hair flowing past his shoulders.

His figure filled out with the constant access to high quality blood. He showed that off without any influence in the way he tightened his waistcoat cinches and requested a little extra heel in his shoes.

Seth's comfortably in between the lines of femininity and masculinity is what caught his attention in the first place. It catches everyone's attention. He is gorgeous. He is also extremely intelligent and surprisingly powerful. His mind worked nonstop coming up with outlandish schemes and ideas.

That's why he needed him. 

Heyman told him behind every great Lord is a great Lady. Beautiful and educated. The visual representation of his wealth, power, and status. 

Seth is just that.

His wealth and power.

A turnie transformed into royalty is something unheard of. He accomplished that and made Seth everything he wanted to be plus more. Pride filled his chest watching him flaunt his success for everyone to see.

Genuine love and happiness is still there, of course, among everything else.

What Seth didn't know wouldn't hurt him. The extra business benefits he gained from their relationship. What people said about him behind his back. That others saw him as a wonderful attraction more often than not.

Roman knew the truth about Seth and what he’s capable of, that’s all that mattered.

Heyman called it business and pleasure, and he couldn't agree more about one of those things.

“Ro—” Seth smiled up at him when he finally went over to greet him.

Roman grabbed his waist and pulled him into a deep kiss. Seth moaned into his mouth and melted like putty in his hands. He made it a show for anyone who dared to watch. Making Seth crane his neck back to show off the bite marks on his neck. The other gripped onto him chasing the feeling of his tongue until Roman finished.

Seth panted heavily when he pulled away, stumbling slightly. 

“Is this everything you wanted, beloved?” Roman murmured, pressing kisses into his jaw. 

“It always is,” he breathed as he slipped his hand down his chest, “I love you.”

Roman hummed appreciatively before pulling back slightly, “Love you too… Dean is he—” 

“Hiding?” Seth finished for him and chuckled softly as Roman spun him to the music, “You know these aren't his thing. I wouldn't be surprised if he's already snuck back to the room.”

He smirked, turning the center of the ballroom into an impromptu dance floor for the two of them. “Maybe we should join him then. It is our night after all,” he whispered in Seth's ear as he held him close.

Seth bit into his bottom lip swaying softly with him, “I don't know— I still have a few people I should talk to here… and then I should thank everyone for coming and make sure—”

Roman dove right for the bite marks on Seth's neck and the other had to clap his hand over his mouth to keep a moan from bursting out.

Point made.

“Roman— Romanroman—” Seth chanted under his breath as he squirmed in his grip. He loved when he did that. “ ‘m serious! It'll only be a second– mmh! You just get a head start—”

The vamp-born pulled back and pouted at him. He wanted him now. He wanted both of them now. 

Seth pressed his finger against his lip, smiling smugly, “You can be patient, your highness. Dean is waiting for us, go keep him company.”

Roman huffed, pulling away from him. That's not what he said he wanted. He paused at Seth's wrists and held them firmly, “...You aren't supposed to deny me.” 

Seth's eyes widened slightly and he met his gaze. 

He had such pretty brown eyes. 

“I'm not, Roman. I'm keeping your image with our guests. Like I'm supposed to. Nothing else.”

…

He hummed and brushed his thumbs over his cool pale skin, “Just making sure. You mean a lot to me, beloved.”

Seth nodded watching him kiss his wrist before he let him go. 

“Where's Seth?”

Roman took off his coat and made himself comfortable in their room. Dean's bright blue eyes tracked him, placing his sketchbook down. 

“Ro.”

“Relax. He's fine, baby,” Roman sighed as he climbed into bed and wrapped his arms around his waist, “He'll be here in a minute.”

“You left him down there alone?” Dean squirmed trying to get from underneath him, “Your people get handsy when we're not around, Roman!”

“He's never told me that,” Roman simply held onto Dean tighter, nuzzling into his middle.

“Of course he wouldn't!” He hissed as he grabbed at his arms, “Let me go!”

Oh my god—

“He's fine, Dean! Will you please just—” Roman paused, taking a moment to get back control. Dean is somehow more delicate than Seth. He had to be careful with the way he spoke, “Just be here with me until Seth shows up. Please— I need you.”

“Roman…” He could hear Dean grind his teeth before he slowly relaxed in his hold. The blonde buried his fingers in his hair and gently combed through it. Roman melted against him, closing his eyes for a moment.

He couldn't describe Dean any other way than his peace. Never asked for anything, never cared about what other people thought, never made him wonder.

Dean took all the weight off his shoulders when they were together, especially alone. There is no— business between them. Dean wouldn't have it, and he didn’t want him to.

Dean is his escape from reality. 

The life Dean lived is so different from his, and he continued to live it without change. He's told him about the sun and its warmth on a summer day. He told him stories of human markets and foods and hobbies. Things that he's never heard before as a vamp-born. 

It amazed him. It comforted him. It made him feel— normal. Like he could someday leave this behind and explore the world with Dean. Seth too. 

The three of them.

If he could just escape Heyman. Escape his father. Escape his destiny.

That's what he wanted to do with them the moment he laid eyes on them.

Yet Heyman pushed him more and more to take his father's place and— he wanted to do that too. The way he described it made it all so appealing, the power he'd have, the ability to do what he wanted when he wanted. Seth and Dean by his side.

Dean didn't want that.

Seth did. Or it seemed like he did. Maybe he didn’t if he just said something.

It's all so confusing and frustrating. It feels like he'd been split in two and both sides constantly fought for dominance in his mind.

Roman sighed softly, blinking his eyes open again, “I’m sorry—”

“For what?” Dean murmured.

…

“I just— don't feel like myself... I-I don’t know what's wrong with me. I feel like—” Roman gripped onto his shirt, “Everyone wants something different from me and I can’t—”

Dean hummed as he trailed off scratching lightly at his scalp, “You know it all up to you Ro. What do you want?”

…What did he want?  

Even at 200 years old he still couldn’t answer that simple question.

He just wanted him. He wanted them. He wanted to feel like this all the time. Weightless.

…

“I—”

The door to the room opened and Seth sighed heavily closing it behind him. He peeled off his coat and set it down neatly rather than dropping it to the floor like he did.

“Is everything alright?” Seth asked as he carefully climbed into bed.

Dean nodded, making room for him, “We’re just talking.” 

“Yeah?” Seth mumbled resting his head on Dean's shoulder, “I thought you guys would have gotten started without me.”

“Got started with what?” Dean questioned.

Seth shrugged softly, “With the way Roman was kissing me down there I half expected him to take me down in the middle of the room.”

Roman flustered and hid his face in Dean's shirt, “Stop, I wouldn’t do that—”

Seth chuckled softly and Dean only made a low noise.

“Everything went okay with the party?” Dean spoke up again.

“Mmhh— only thing missing was you,” Seth told him, “We missed you.”

“Is everyone gone?” Roman asked brushing one of his hands against Seth's thigh.

“Just about… it's just the three of us now.”

Roman nodded and basked in the peaceful silence that washed over them. 

Just the three of them.

For one hundred years so far. Hopefully for thousands more.

*******

Another one hundred and forty years go by. Lord Sika Anoa'i is finally entombed for his eternal slumber after his service to his family and the Vampiric Council. He is laid to rest, impressed by his son’s growth over the past two hundred years.

Roman has taken his place as Lord and head of his Bloodline with the guidance of council man Paul Heyman. A role he took by the horns and put everything he could into. Even at the detriment of their relationship at times.

So much has changed since their first fifty years.

Seth tilted his head as he held up two different waistcoats to the bronze mirror. One made of green velvet with gold embroidery, the other made of black cotton and leather. He chewed at the inside of his cheek, pondering which one to pair with his black button down.

They had a dinner tonight. Roman asked him to dress the best he could for some important guests he invited. He asked Dean to do the same but that'll only go so far.

Roman usually liked it when he wore more color… but the leather might also get his attention in a— different way. His Lordship hasn't been easy as of late. He'd come back to them exhausted and barely present.

Tonight he hoped to cheer him up a bit. Maybe get his attention away from Heyman for an evening. Back to the three of them. Though how to do so still escaped him.

Eventually he sighed and turned around to face Dean sitting on the bed behind him. 

“What do you think?”

Dean looked him up and down before he shrugged, “Does it matter?” 

…Right.

Seth scoffed and felt his chest tighten with irritation, “If that's how you're gonna be tonight then I'll just get dressed with Sami and Jey.” He turned around and stared at the waistcoats again.

He hated when Dean got like this. He's just as frustrated with Roman, but it isn't fair to take it out on him. He's just trying to make the best out of this situation. For them.

…

“How many times is it gonna take Roman dangling you like a carrot on a stick for these guests for you to realize this is wrong, Seth?”

“Excuse me?”

Dean stared at him through the mirror, “How many times are you gonna come back to me crying because Roman allowed one of his guests to put their hands on you?”

“He doesn't allow it— he doesn't know! I told you those things in confidence—” 

“Please Seth—” Dean let out a frustrated breath dragging his hands down his face, “How many secrets and private moments must we have to keep Roman happy now, huh? You don't even want him to see you cry anymore!”

“I—”

“You’re the smartest person I've ever met but when it comes to Roman you're a fucking dumbass.” Dean snapped.

Seth tossed his clothes onto the vanity and spun back around, “What the fuck is your problem?”

“This!” Dean stood up and gestured to him and everything around them, “I'm so tired of pretending everything's okay! It's not! The clothes, the jewelry, the parading around, the lies, you're just a trophy to him, Seth!” 

“You sound jealous—”

“You sold yourself! Would you treat Esme this way? Would you've allowed your daughter to be treated that way? Tyler.”

Seth felt the air evaporate out of his lungs at that. It was a low blow and he knew it. 

“Oh, fuck you! I wanted this! I cashed in on myself! I needed it! No one cared about me before I did what I needed to do to get to the top, Dean! Nothing is good enough for you!”

“I cared!?” The other shouted over him, “I fell in love with you the moment I saw you in that alley! I told myself I'd spend the rest of my life protecting you, and I've spent damn near 250 years watching that man wither away to a shell of who he was! I love you so much, but I can’t do it anymore! There's nothing I could do to protect you from yourself! You've become nothing but Roman's bitch!”

“Then leave?! I love him just as much as I love you Dean and sometimes you just have to endure the shitty stuff to get what you want! Something you wouldn’t understand!”

Seth panted heavily, it felt like flames were going to erupt directly out of his mouth. His mind sizzled with anger listening to him say he couldn’t be here anymore and blaming him for it. He's tried to be nothing but perfect for both of them. Trying and trying and trying every day. It doesn't seem that anyone notices until he gets like this. 

His whole life has been suffering the hand he’s been dealt and the one time he makes a decision for himself he’s told by the person he’s trusted the most that he’s wrong!

Dean stared at him before he nodded absently and turned to grab the brand-new blue and brown fur lined coat he made him.

Regret immediately filled his veins and he let out a deep breath, “Dean…”

The other didn’t listen. He kicked open the doors to their balcony, shattering the glass with the amount of force behind him.

“Dean!” Seth darted after him, but it was already too late. Dean jumped over the railing and disappeared in the forest. He caught the smallest glimpse of his blue coat heading toward town.

“Dean?!” He screamed after him.

Nonono— fuck! Roman's going to—

“What's going on? Why is the door like this?”

Seth flinched hearing Roman’s voice come from behind him. He turned to look up at him, ignoring the bastard council man not far behind. “We— we got into an argument, and he told me he didn't wanna be here anymore. I—”

Roman didn't listen any further, his face hardened, and he turned to the elder behind him, “I want him found and brought back here now. I don’t care how many guards you have to send, wake up the whole damn town, find him!”

“Y-yes, my Lord! Right away!” Heyman babbled back before scurrying off to gather troops.

Seth watched Roman try to follow the council man and grabbed his arm in a panic, “Roman! Dean isn't gonna let some random guards drag him back here. We need to go. He ran away because of us.”

Roman looked away from him, it almost seemed like he did it to hide him rolling his eyes. It hurt, but he didn’t have time to feel that right now. They needed to find Dean. He had to fix this. They had to fix this. Their relationship couldn't go on like this any longer.

Roman slipped his arm away from him and brushed his sleeve back into place, “At least finish getting dressed. I can’t have you showing yourself looking like that.” 

Seth took that verbal punch to the gut and sealed his lips, lest he not get what he wanted. He would think Dean's safety is more important than how he looked. Yet his name is attached to Roman’s name now, they have a legacy to uphold.

“We’ll ride out with the guards when you're ready.”

Guards stormed up and down the streets. Stopping everyone and everything. Forcing their way inside suspicious residences, human and vampire. Their orders: find Dean at all cost.

Seth followed alongside Roman as he oversaw every second, movement, and command. He adjusted his green and gold waistcoat and matching frock, “What if he skipped town?”

Roman hummed, brushing his hand along his beard, “Someone had to have seen something. I'll tear this goddamn place apart then burn everything down to find him.”

Seth didn't respond to that and glanced off as Solo came to give another report. Solo is the last one to join Roman's inner circle of close family. Seth had been training the younger as an Enforcer for a little over a year now. The boy could fight like hell in underground pits but isn't as coordinated when it came to large group strategy. Luck for him, he's had plenty of time to read and study old war books. Even Heyman was impressed by his ability to draw up an attack plan.

Seth squinted when something in the distance caught his attention. 

Dean's old weathered house. The door had been kicked in.

He eyed Roman beside him, still distracted, before he made his way over to it. Seth kept his footsteps light to not spook anyone who still may be inside. Especially if it's Dean. If he ran away again there’s no telling what Roman would do to stop him this time.

Immediately, upon entry Seth had to step around a pool of fresh blood leaking from a woman lying face down on the floor. He didn't remember Roman giving any kind of kill order. So either something went wrong or this is Dean's doing. 

“Dean?” Seth called out, “Dean, come on, I just wanna talk… Roman isn't here.” 

There's a tiny shuffle from underneath a clothed table in the kitchen. Seth knew it wouldn't be Dean, but he went to go check it out anyway. His heels clicked against the worn wooden floors, glancing around at the interior. 

The place is a wreck. The fire in the main room withered to barely a crackle. Wooden chairs were tossed against the walls and shattered on the floor. Spilled food and drinks ruined the quilted table cloth. 

“Jesus Dean…” Seth whispered before bending down to grab the hem of the cloth.

His body went stiff as stone the moment he lifted it. 

His world spun around him. The air became too thick to breathe. His hands trembled, his stomach churned, his throat went desert dry.

A small girl shook before him. Her bright green eyes streamed tears down her face as she stared up at him paralyzed with fear.

Cecily.

Her long black hair stuck to her sticky face and frizzed from the static of the cloth.

His baby girl.

She's— she's terrified of him.

No— nonono— he couldn't breathe. He couldn't fucking breathe—

She's so scared— ohgodohgod—

What has he done?!

“Seth?!”

He flinched, and the little girl screamed in front of him. Whatever he braced for never came and Seth checked on the girl visually before he turned around and saw Dean standing above him.

With a splintered piece of wood going through his chest.

“No—” Seth whispered as he caught Dean in his arms when he slumped down to the floor, “Nonono— No?!”

Tears welled up in his eyes as he held Dean's face close watching him struggle for a breath. Black tendrils spidered up his neck and to his cheeks. Blood dripped down his quivering lip.

“I'msosorryI'msosorryI'msosorry,” he cried burying his fingers in his blonde hair, “Please don't go! Please— please?!”

Footsteps boomed towards them then abruptly stopped at the entrance of the room. 

Seth choked as he slowly looked up at Roman with Dean lifeless in his arms. Roman took shaky breaths, staring at Dean— then him.

“T-The humans they—” he hiccupped and glanced over at the wide open back door.

…

They escaped.

Roman dropped to his knees and grabbed one of Dean's hands, bringing it to his lips. Silent tears dripped down his face.

“I-I'm sorry— I didn't… I couldn't–” Seth let out a shaky breath as the lump in his throat caught his voice.

It's all his fault.

*******

The door opened and Seth closed the journal in his lap. He watched Roman come in, letting out a sigh of relief as he let down his hair from its tight bun.

“Hey,” he greeted him quietly, “How was your trip?”

“Fine.” Roman mutter still peeling the jewelry off of his fingers before brushing his fingers through his hair.

Seth bit his lip watching him. He could see that his waistcoat fit him quite nicely now that his overcoat is off. The trousers are nice too, high quality cotton and the Vampiric Council obviously kept him well-fed. He slowly slipped his journal onto the nightstand, brushing his thighs together.

“You know— it's been a while since we've spent a night together. Just the two of us.”

Roman made a low noise at that.

Seth got up and brushed his fingers along the cotton comforter as he inched closer, “You look good… I thought we could spend some time like we used to. Maybe we could go for a ride? Or we could eat together.”

“What's going on with your hair?”

Seth bristled at the sharp question and the slight disdain in his eyes when he finally turned around to look at him. 

It's been maybe a month since Roman's seen him? Of course, that's when his roots decided to start growing back their normal black color. His hair went completely blonde after Dean's death five years ago. Like the patch he got the night he was turned. It's been growing like that ever since.

Until now.

“I don't know— I can't control–” he started, brushing his fingers through the ends.

“It kind of makes it hard to get things for you if you're constantly changing how you look,” Roman spoke over him as he looked him up and down, making it obvious he isn't just talking about hair. 

He— couldn’t bring himself to eat or get out of bed for months after Dean. When he started his memory journals things got better but—

He's over two hundred years older now than when they first met. The weight he gained back… stuck on differently. It isn't like he's completely changed.

“I liked the way you used to look.” 

…

“I can— I can try to find a way to make it match… maybe you could help me,” Seth tried his damnedest to turn this all around. No matter how much it fucking hurt to hear that. Roman is still grieving like him; he just— had to give him time.

“Seth, I'm tired, okay? I'm not dealing with that right now. Just— forget I said anything.”

Seth worked his jaw glancing up at the ceiling then slowly making his way back down to the floor… 

Fuck this. He didn't have to deal with it either. He gave a small ‘okay’ before grabbing his lace shawl from the dresser. 

Roman tilted his head, watching him wrap it around his shoulders, “Where are you going?”

“Just for a walk. I need some air.”

The other didn't say anything else until the door was nearly shut behind him then he called out his name and stopped him in his tracks. 

“I brought you some more of that silk you liked. The red one,” Roman told him.

He forced a little smile on his face and nodded softly, “Thank you, Ro.”

Purposeful wandering.

Seth knew what he was doing. He hated himself every time it happened. Even more so now that Roman’s home and he could be caught at any minute. The damage this would cause to the entire family is irreparable. 

But he needed relief from his own mind, from everything, just for a moment. Until Roman is ready to give it to him, this is what he had to do to keep himself sane. He tugged the shawl tighter around himself already feeling the shame fill his gut.

It's all his fault everything is like this.

If he hadn't been so blinded by the gold and fortune.

If they hadn't had that argument that night.

If he hadn't hesitated.

If he hadn't said ‘yes’ all those years ago—

It's his fault. All his fault. He deserved to feel like this.  

Seth buried his fingers into his hair, digging his nails into his scalp. He just wanted to fix it. He wanted everything back to how they used to be. He wanted—

“Seth?”

He froze at the sound of Jey's voice, his eyes focusing on the vamp-born in front of him.

“You doin’ alright? What'chu doin’ all the way over here?”

Seth swallowed thickly before glancing around to make sure no one else is near, “I'm— looking for company.”

Jey eyed him as he tilted his head slightly, “...Roman's home.”

“I know.”

The younger twin gave it another second then he nodded towards the end of the hall, “Come on then. Sami's waitin’ for me.”

He ducked his head and followed him loosely. As soon as they got to their room Sami stood at the sight of him and Jey locked the door behind them.

“It hasn't even been a full night.” Sami murmured as he came over and brushed his hand against his cheek. Seth turned into it, closing his eyes for a moment. Jey pressed against his back and wrapped his arms around him. God, it felt so good.

“All I asked was to spend time with him, he… I didn’t— I didn’t know what else to do,” he told them. If he kept pushing it would just escalate to yelling and— worse. From both of them. 

“Christ—” Sami sighed, “I don’t understand why you keep putting each other through this, Seth. We told you we'd help you leave. You deserve better than this.”

Seth stopped himself from shaking his head at that, “It’s my fault Roman is like this in the first place. I can’t just— leave him to suffer alone. There has to be something that I can do.”

“It isn't your fault and Roman ain't gonna be alone, Uce. He's got us just like you but something's gotta give between y'all. It's just gonna keep getting worse,” Jey mumbled as he rested his head against his shoulder.

Seth let out a deep breath, basking in all the contact. He wanted to believe everything they said. He knew it was only going to get worse the longer this went on. Yet, he couldn’t help but still feel something from Roman before he left the room. Maybe it's his own mind trying to play tricks on him, giving him more false hope, but it seemed like Roman wasn't expecting him to leave.

Whether that’s a good or bad thing has yet to be determined but he knew one thing for sure. Nothing is going to give tonight, and he just wanted to stop thinking about it. He wanted to feel good. Just for an hour. If they wanted to help so badly they could do that for him.

Seth leaned more of his weight back against Jey and slowly brought his hand up to fidget with the buttons on Sami’s chest. The other two caught on right away, and he made a little noise, feeling Jey's hands slip down to his hips. 

Sami huffed softly, running his fingers through his blonde hair, “Spend time with Roman, huh?”

His fangs dug into his bottom lip as he clutched onto his shirt, “Please—”

The ginger pulled him into a kiss and Jey worked on unbuttoning his waistcoat, then his collar. The shame, pain, grief, guilt, it all subsided with their hands on him. It— it reminded him of how things used to be. If he kept his eyes closed, he could almost imagine—

Seth hissed, tearing himself away from Sami's lips when Jey wrapped his lips around the bite marks in his neck. His hand came up and blindly grabbed a fistful of his curls as he teased that tender spot. Licking and sucking at the old wound.

Sami dove into the other side of his neck. His lips started right underneath his jaw and moved down. Seth sighed softly, melting from the attention. 

Eventually he allowed them to walk him to the bed, where his back landed softly. Jey took his lips this time, bracing a hand on his chest. Sami took a minute to watch, chewing on his bottom lip.

“You two are gorgeous,” he murmured.

Seth mewled into his lips at the praise, and Jey swallowed it, deepening the kiss. His hand slid lower down his body, over his stomach and teasing his fingertips just underneath his waistband. Tingles spiked along his spine with anticipation.

He wanted them to keep going, but something— he's hearing— footsteps. A lot of them.

Jey seemingly caught onto them too, slowly pulling away from his lips and glancing over at the door. Seth let out a breath and closed his eyes for a moment. His inclination about Roman earlier must've been right and, of course, he had to have every guard and servant in the estate looking for him.

Either he really fucked up or this could be something good for once.

“They're… probably looking for you, Seth,” Sami told him quietly.

“I know,” he whispered and sat up to fix his clothes, “Sorry for—” They knew.

“It's alright, Uce,” Jey hummed, “We prefer you to come here than anywhere else.” Sami nodded at that and squeezed his shoulder gently, “You're family just as much as anyone else; we gotta stick together. It'll get better.”

He sure hoped so. Seth stood and grabbed his shawl from the floor. He waited for the foot traffic to die down around them before he unlocked the door and took a breath.

“Thank you for your company.”

*******

The second any guard or servant laid eyes on him, the faster they rushed him off to the throne room. The maids in passing picked at him to make sure his hair and clothes laid correctly. He'd ask them what is this about, and they'd simply shrug or tell him they didn't know. It'd been years since he got attention like this. The longer it went on, the more nervous he got. 

Maybe— someone saw something and told Roman. 

Surely if Roman knew, he would've just come and got him himself. Right?

Oh god—

What is he going to do? What is he going to say?

The doors opened to the throne room, and it’s filled with people cleaning it. Humans scrubbed the mahogany floors, and vampires dusted the walls and the furniture.

Seth picked himself up at sight of them. Fixing his posture and, gosh, wishing he had something a bit more on.

Roman made eye contact with him from across the room and came straight for him.

He braced himself mentally and took a few steps forward to meet him, “Roman—”

The Lord grabbed his wrist and pulled him further inside, “Where the hell have you been?”

“I got caught up with Sami and Jey— I didn't mean–”

Before he could finish, Roman pulled him into a deep kiss. Seth moaned into his mouth and clung to him as tightly as he could. Roman practically tried to devour him. Licking into his mouth and sucking down every little noise forced out of him. Their fangs clicked, and his mind spun with excitement.

It’s been years since he’s kissed him like this! It—

It’s everything he wanted. Overwhelming, passionate, heated.

Is this it? Is Roman finally coming back to him?

Seth hadn't even realized they made it all the way back to his throne until Roman pulled away from his lips. He panted heavily looking up at him, “What—”

Seth grunted when Roman shoved him into the throne and ripped open his shirt, sending his buttons flying, “Roman—”

His lord forced his way in between his thighs and nudged his way to his neck. Seth cried out as he sucked harshly at his bite marks. He whined at the sharp mix of pain and pleasure, dragging his nails down his back. Seth arched his back, feeling him trace his fangs around his tender skin. 

No— no–

There's too many people around. They couldn't– not here. He didn't want to be here. He wanted them to be alone together. Like it used to be! With the three of them.

Seth panted softly trying to push Roman off of him, “Roman! Roman, stop–” He yelped when the other grabbed his face and forced him to be still.

“You really didn't think I would figure out that someone else here has your attention,” Roman gritted, shoving his head back to look at him, “Do you really think I'm that stupid?”

“No– no! I would never, Ro—” he gripped onto his shoulders.

“You're a fucking liar, you know you are. I don't care how many people I have to fill up this room with, everyone is going to know you fucking belong to me. I found you. I made you. And unless you want to go back to that gutter I pulled you out of, you're going to lay there and be pretty like I made you to be.”

…

Seth swallowed thickly, looking up at him. 

…

He loved him. He loved him so much. This is what Roman needed. This is how he could fix it. He just— had to be patient. He slowly relaxed, and brushed his fingers through the ends of Roman's hair. Be patient and endure. 

Roman released his jaw and leaned down to plant kisses along his chest. Seth let out a little breath, allowing him to continue. His hands traveled down to his hips and began to remove his trousers.

Seth kept his eyes on the ceiling to stop from reminding himself that there were other people here. Just him and Roman.

He hissed, feeling Roman’s fangs along the inside of his thigh. Nipping and scratching at his pale skin. Thankfully, he produced a vial of oil from his pocket. Obviously more for himself than Seth.

Roman poured a generous amount onto his entrance and pushed two fingers into him right away. Seth yelped at the pain of the stretch, writhing under him.

“Fuck Roman— mmh!” Tears prickled the corner of his eyes, yet his cock slowly twitched to life against his stomach as he pumped his fingers in and out of him.

Occasionally Roman would hook his fingers into his walls and make him cry out. He would sit there and abuse that spot until it fell raw inside of him. Making sure the pleasure never outweighed the pain he felt. Cramped half in the seat of Roman's throne, Seth clawed at the furniture and stood no chance at containing any noise inside.

Noises and his naked body that Dean said were just for them. Used in a way Roman said he never would.

His vulnerability displayed before everyone in the room. 

He hated it so much.

Seth whimpered when Roman pulled his fingers out of him unceremoniously and took a moment to slick his cock. In no way is he preparing for it, but it didn't matter.

Maybe he simply didn't deserve pleasure from Roman until he finished grieving. It's all his fault he's like this, and he would be here when that moment came, if ever.

He knew somewhere deep down Roman still loved him. He had to.

Seth cried out when he pushed inside of him all in one go. Tears tipped over the well and leaked down his face. 

“Fuck— Romanromanroman— mmgh!” He whimpered and wrapped his arms around his neck, “Owow– hha—”

His pain and crying didn’t matter. In fact, it only seemed to egg him on. Roman leaned in and kissed on his neck as he thrust in and out of him. Giving him no time to adjust. He held onto his hips tight enough to feel pressure in his bones and dug his nails into his skin. Hammering into him in the way that Seth knew he wouldn't be able to walk properly after all this is over. 

God, he wanted it to be over.

Seth tilted his head back and panted heavily as Roman licked the tears from his face, “Roman, please—” He could feel the heat swirling and building in his gut.

“Shh…” he hushed him as he kissed his cheek, “You look your best like this— don't ruin it.”

Seth whined and dug his fingers into Roman’s hair. He wrapped his legs around his waist and met his thrusts. 

Don't ruin it.

This is what he was asking for. Roman is spending time with him.

Don't ruin it by being selfish.

Seth shouted when Roman’s fangs sunk into his shoulder as hard as he could. More tears streamed down his face. It felt as if his bottom and top fangs would meet through his flesh. 

Roman is in pain too. Don't ruin this.

He endured the pain for both of them. He's fixing it. It'll get better. The bites, marks, scratches will fade. It'll get better.

Seth sobbed as he came, clinging to Roman as tightly as he could.

Roman kept going through his climax, he grabbed his throat and forced him to look at him. The tears rolling down his cheek, choked sobs from overstimulation, his blonde hair sticking to his face. It hurt so fucking much. The minutes felt like hours.

Then suddenly, it stopped. 

He let out a shattered breath as Roman’s cock twitched inside of him, releasing his spend. They panted heavily against each other. Seth’s throat bobbed against his palm whenever he swallowed. They were so close…

He’s touching him.

Kiss him. Put his hands through his hair. Touch his cheek. Wipe his tears. Something— please make this worth it.

“My Lord?”

No—

Seth panicked at the sound of the council man’s voice. How long had he been around watching? What did he want? It didn't even matter! Roman is his right now! 

He felt Roman try to pull away from him, and he gripped onto the back of his shirt, “Roman— Roman please don't go,” he whispered to him.

“You’re unbelievable,” Roman muttered as he pulled out of him and yanked his hands away from his clothes, causing Seth to drop to the floor, “I give you what you want, and it still isn't enough.” 

Seth looked away as Roman fixed his clothes above him while he sat bare and exposed.

For everyone to see.

All the attention he could want, right?

“Quite the display of your power, my Lord! You should be proud… as should your lover,” Heyman spoke his venom to Roman.

Seth should be proud of this.

“I took the liberty of gathering a few attendants to clean him up for you while we discuss your next expedition.”

“Thank you, council man,” Roman breathed before he turned around and left him there for the attendants.

Seth simply stared into the raging fireplace across the room, panting softly with the weight of a thousand stones on his chest.

He had to hope and endure.

It'll get better.

Back to the way it used to be.