After Kai’s revelations and the town’s overwhelming support, a subtle yet profound shift settled over Tennga. Many of the Fae had once known what it was like to be without a home, to be lost. So they understood that Kai, who was naturally reserved and introverted, needed space rather than suffocating kindness. Instead of overcompensating, they acted as though nothing had changed—because, in reality, nothing had. The only difference was that Kai no longer had to hide.

  Instead of just the Moon Sisters and Mayor Elarin planning for the New York trip, the entire town pitched in. Many had connections in the city and wanted to ensure Kai and Marta’s mission succeeded. It became a collective effort, a testament to how deeply they had accepted both women as their own. By evening, the town had decided to extend their celebrations for another day so that Kai and Marta could fully take part. Kai had never experienced a small-town fair before, and she found herself unexpectedly enjoying it. Of course, she suspected the Fae twist made things more interesting, but she wasn’t about to complain. Marta, on the other hand, was absolutely thriving. With her newly discovered Mate by her side, she strolled through the fair with childlike wonder. At some point, she had even taken off her gifted beanie, letting her snakes fully enjoy the cool evening air. They were ecstatic, flicking their tongues at the scents of various festival treats and drawing laughter from those around them. The easy acceptance she received from the town made her heart feel light.

  The highlight of the night came when one of Marta’s snakes decided to stick its head into a cotton candy machine. The result? A tiny serpent crowned with a fluffy pink headdress, its siblings eagerly trying to lick the sugar off. The sight sent the crowd into peals of laughter, and even Shae was doubled over, wiping tears from her eyes. Marta could only groan and try to help clean the sticky sugar coated reptile, while Shae took the opportunity to pull her in for a kiss, thoroughly enjoying her Mate’s presence.

  Meanwhile, Kai wandered the fair alone, quietly observing. There was something liberating about simply existing without the weight of secrecy pressing down on her. For the first time in years, she felt light—free. But as she strolled through the booths, she couldn’t help but turn inward. The truth was, she still believed she was human, and yet…. She had to admit, something set her apart. Mayor Elarin had been right—she needed to figure it out. After a while, the growing crowd became a little overwhelming. More Fae had begun arriving through the rune pillars, and though she had no problem with them, the sheer volume of people made her feel boxed in. Needing a reprieve, she made her way to a snack booth where Rina was handing out drinks. Rina noticed her approach and quickly excused herself. She had seen the quiet tension in Kai’s posture, the way she avoided brushing shoulders with others as she moved.

  “What’s wrong, Kai?” she asked gently. Kai gave a small smile at her friend’s concern. It was… nice, being cared for. “Nothing, Rin. I’m just feeling a little crowded. Too many people.” Rina looked around, noticing the influx of newcomers. “Oh! Yes, there are quite a few new additions to the town. We’re expanding the barrier at dawn.” Kai nodded absentmindedly. “Mm…when the Sun and Moon reflect each other from opposite sides of the Earth, the moment when the barriers between realms are weaker.” Rina blinked in surprise and turned to fully face Kai, who seemed clueless to what she had just said. “Kai… how did you know that?” Kai blinked as well, suddenly confused, her brows scrunching together. “Umm… I don’t… know. I just do?” A frown creased her brow. “I shouldn’t know that, though.”

  Rina mentally added that to the growing list of oddities surrounding Kai. “Well, you were right. That’s when the Elders will perform the ritual and put the new runes in place.” Kai hummed in thought. “How far are you expanding?” She glanced to in the direction of the far off mountains. “Over state lines, actually,” Rina explained. “When a place like this expands, we have to legally purchase the land from the humans first. From what I heard, we were able to acquire a large stretch of undeveloped land on the Tennessee side of the border. You remember the train tracks before you get to the hidden turn? That’s where the state border is. Fortunately, we won’t be crossing any busy roads, so it’s a straight shot—wooded terrain, valleys, lots of open space. About an extra 468 acres.” Kai let out a low whistle. “That’s incredible. Congratulations.” Rina smiled lightly. “You’re part of this too, you know. Whether you choose to stay or not, we consider this your home. So this is for you to celebrate as well.” She reached out, giving Kai’s shoulder a warm squeeze. Kai leaned into the touch in acknowledgment, but she didn’t reply.

  Rina glanced around, noticing just how crowded it was getting. “Why don’t you take a walk?” she suggested. “It’ll help.” Kai exhaled softly and gave her a small side hug in thanks before swiftly disappearing into the shadows between booths. Rina watched her go, feeling a pang of sympathy. For someone as strong as Kai, opening up—even just a little—was exhausting. But she was proud of her. Kai had braved the crowds just to let her know she needed space. That, in itself, was growth.

  Kai, in her own unique way, somehow brought comfort to others, when it was she who needed it the most. The tall quiet woman was incredibly easy to love.

  Kai’s feet carried her away from the crowds, weaving through the quiet back alleys behind the festival. Where wondering brought her to the backyard of the B&B, facing the grove woods. She didn’t hesitate as she stepped into the trees, the dense foliage swallowing her in a familiar embrace. Her mind drifted, memories both old and new playing through her mind like a film reel. She let her body move on autopilot, trusting the woods to guide her to somewhere she could relax. Somewhere safe. A sudden sound of rushing water broke her trance, and she blinked. She had stumbled upon a river. It was fed by a waterfall, the sound of moving water blending with the soft laughter of its inhabitants—water nymphs. They were playing, completely oblivious to her silent arrival. Some swam in lazy circles, others splashed and dove beneath the water’s surface. Their laughter was light and musical, the kind of sound that made the air itself feel enchanted.

  Kai perched on a large rock at the water’s edge, watching them with an indulgent smile. She remembered this place from her last visit to Tennga.

  A startled squeak rang out as one of the nymphs spotted her. The entire pod froze, wide-eyed and aghast that they hadn’t sensed her presence. A few prepared to flee—until recognition dawned. One nymph let out a delighted squeal and dove beneath the water, swimming toward her with eager strokes. The others hesitated only a moment before following. Kai chuckled as the first nymph broke the surface, launching herself halfway out of the water to drape over Kai’s lap. She rested her chin on Kai’s thigh with a happy sigh, wiggling her bottom in the water like an excited puppy. The rest of the nymphs quickly swarmed around, some climbing onto the rock beside her, others floating against it. They were slim ethereal beings. All female and all light of skin. Their nude figures lithe and somewhat curvaceous. They babbled excitedly in their strange, lyrical language, not caring that Kai didn’t understand a word. She smiled and absentmindedly stroked the hair of the one lying across her lap. The little creature hummed contentedly before pushing off and splashing back into the river, only to be immediately replaced by another.

  Kai should have seen it coming. The nymphs were mischievous little things and by their very nature, extremely sexual beings. Nudity was just a way of life for them. They started out playful, tugging at her hands, coaxing her closer. Then one particularly bold nymph slipped a hand beneath her shirt and let out a delighted gasp. She had just discovered that their guest was not only incredibly strong but built like a warrior. That was all it took. Suddenly, they were all over her, giggling and sighing. Their hands yanking at her, eagerly attempting to pull her into the water.

  Kai tried—she really did—to keep her balance, but with multiple hands dragging at her and the sound of impish laughter filling the air, she stood no chance. She toppled into the river with a loud splash!

  Kai surfaced, sputtering, pushing soaked hair from her face. The nymphs shrieked in delight, hiding behind the rocks as they giggled uncontrollably. Oh, so that’s how it is? A slow smirk curled Kai’s lips. Fine. They wanted to play? She tossed her boots and socks onto the shore, shrugging off her bomber jacket and rolling her shoulders. Now standing in the shallows in just her tight T-shirt and cargo pants, she eyed the mischievous little hellions. Well then, let’s play! Then she lunged. The nymphs shrieked and scattered, darting beneath the water like sleek little humanoid fish. But Kai was fast. She caught the one who had felt her up around the waist and easily hoisted her out of the water, grappling with the giggling nymph. The others gasped and splashed around in mock horror, trying to “rescue” their captured sister. Kai only grinned, as the buxom female squirmed and wiggled in her arms. Kai began to tickle her, making her squeal and break out into tinkling peels of laughter. She lifted her up and draped her over her shoulder giving the nymph a couple light swats on her bare bottom before tossing her into the deep end. That was all it took to start an all-out war. The commotion quickly drew the attention of other forest Fae. Curious fairies flitted in to watch, their glowing wings illuminating the dusk. Satyrs arrived next, some joining the fray while others took bets. A few centaurs parked themselves on the shore, watching the spectacle with amused snorts. Dryads peeked from their trees, occasionally providing swinging vines for an added challenge. The peaceful grove had turned into a full-blown party.

  Back at the festival, three fairies zipped excitedly toward the Moon Sisters’ booth. Rina, Shae, and Marta had just settled down with hot cocoa when one of the tiny creatures landed on the counter, breathless from excitement. “You have to see this!” the fairy squeaked. “See what?” Rina asked, sipping her drink.“The quiet one! She’s playing with the nymphs!” Rina nearly choked on her cocoa. Marta blinked. “Kai? Playing?” The fairy nodded furiously. “In the water! She’s wrestling them! And winning!” Shae and Marta exchanged looks before bursting into laughter.“When I told her to take a walk, I didn’t think she’d end up there,” Rina wheezed. “This I have to see!” Marta was already on her feet. “Lead the way!”

  By the time they arrived at the grove, the scene before them nearly stopped their hearts. Kai stood knee-deep in the river, water dripping from her tanned skin, her cargo pants slung low on her hips. Her shirt was nowhere to be found, leaving her in only a black sports bra that clung to her like a second skin. And her abs. Oh, stars above, her abs. Every muscle was sculpted to perfection, glistening under the golden light of the setting sun. And there she was, effortlessly holding two nymphs—one on each shoulder—as she dodged the others attempting to tackle her. She was grinning, her dark eyes gleaming with amusement as she weaved through the water like some kind of Amazonian warrior queen.

  Rina, Shae, and Marta all swallowed at the same time. “It should be a sin to look that good,” Rina muttered. Marta’s eyes were glued to her friend’s stomach. “Delicious,” she whispered. Shae muttered back, “You’re telling me.” At that moment, Kai spotted them. Without dropping the two wriggling nymphs, she waded toward them. “Hey,” she greeted casually, utterly oblivious to the visceral effect she was having on her friends. “The water’s nice if you wanna join?” Rina slapped a hand to her forehead. This woman was impossible. “Kai, sweetheart,” Rina said dryly, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Could you kindly put the Very Wet and Very Naked nymphs back in the water?” Kai blinked, glancing at two giggling nymphs on her shoulders, who took it upon themselves, at that moment, to give her a kiss on each of her cheeks. They tittered as her eyes went wide. It was then she realised she had two very nubile women hanging over her shoulders, their naked bodies pressed against her skin. A lightbulb flickered on in her brain and her eyes widened even more. She bolted back into the water, hastily setting the nymphs back down into the water. They all giggled at awkward apologies. They then gave her puppy dog eyes and little pouts when she made to leave the water, but accepted affectionate head pats and hugs goodbye as compensation.

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  With a sheepish expression, Kai trudged back to her friends. Marta shook her head fondly. “Oh, Kai… what are we going to do with you?” Kai sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. Shae cleared her throat, trying very hard not to stare at the distracting muscles right in front of her. “Where’s your shirt?” Kai grimaced, looking toward the water. “Uh… they kinda stole it? It turned into a game of keep-away, and…” She trailed off as she spotted one particularly smug nymph waving her shirt above the water. “Hah! I knew she had it!” Kai groaned. “Little hellion.” Shae laughed. “Only you, Kai.” Rina shook her head, still chuckling. “Alright, water warrior, why don’t we head back to the B&B? Tomorrow’s going to be busy.” Kai agreed, retrieving her jacket from a young faun, who nuzzled into her touch as she scratched between his horns. Shae watched the interaction, warmth blooming in her chest.

  It was if Kai had this innate ability to just Know how to handle the Fae. She wasn’t just accepted by them—she belonged amongst them. And watching her now, it was hard to believe Kai had ever thought she was just human.

  As they made their way back to the B&B, the grove’s Fae continued to show their appreciation for Kai in small ways. A dryad, her skin the color of fresh bark and hair a cascade of living vines, shyly approached, cradling Kai’s boots in her arms. When Kai reached out to take them, she gently ran her fingers through the delicate vines, a silent gesture of thanks. The dryad’s pale cheeks darkened to the color of autumn leaves, and before anyone could say anything, she giggled and disappeared into the nearest tree. Rina and Shae exchanged knowing looks, while Marta just shook her head with an amused sigh. If only Kai could see herself, they all thought. She might finally understand why we say she’s special.

  Kai, oblivious to the effect she had, slung her boots over her shoulder and fell into step beside Rina. They trailed behind Shae and Marta along the wooded path back to the B&B. At first, Rina asked Kai about her time among humans, curious about the world beyond the barrier. Kai answered as best as she could, describing what little she had experienced outside of work. The conversation flowed naturally, meandering from Kai’s favorite places to eat, to her least favorite human inventions (car alarms, without a doubt), to the endless absurdity of reality TV. Then Kai, ever thoughtful, turned the questions back toward Rina. They ended up discussing mates. Kai, wanting to understand better for the sake of her friends, listened attentively as Rina explained the concept. She spoke of bonds, of the unspoken connection that could exist between two souls, how Fae were instinctively drawn to their mate in ways that defied explanation. Kai took it all in, quietly processing.

  During a lull in the conversation, she hesitated before asking, “Did you… Do you have a mate?” The question seemed to catch Rina off guard. A flicker of sadness crossed the Moon Fae’s eyes before she answered. “Once… a long, long time ago.” Kai stepped closer, her warm presence a silent comfort. Without thinking, she leaned into Rina’s side, a subtle show of solidarity. Rina allowed it, her shoulder brushing against Kai’s as they walked. “What happened?” Kai asked softly. Rina let out a slow breath. “Unfortunately, they died. Nothing to be done.” Kai frowned, her heart clenching at the simplicity of those words. No bitterness, no anger—just an acceptance that spoke of years of grief worn smooth with time.“I’m sorry,” Kai murmured. “No one should have to be alone.” Rina glanced at her, touched by the quiet sincerity in her voice. Kai hesitated before asking, “Do you mind if I ask… how they died?”Rina’s lips curled into a soft, wistful smile. “Old age.” Kai blinked. “Oh… I thought…” She trailed off, unsure of what she had expected. Rina patted her arm. “It’s alright. I had sixty-three years with him. Sometimes, we are unlucky in these things.”Kai absorbed that, stunned. “So he was human?” she asked, carefully. “Yes,” Rina said simply. Kai’s brow furrowed. “Does that… happen often? Mating with humans, I mean?” Rina shrugged. “It’s not unheard of,” she admitted. “Though humans have such short lives compared to us, that’s also what makes them so remarkable. Their creativity, their ingenuity—it’s inspiring.” Kai pondered that, turning Rina’s words over in her mind. After a moment, she asked hesitantly, “Do you think you’ll ever… be able to mate again?” There was a pause. “Perhaps,” Rina said with a small shrug. “It would be nice.” Kai nodded, staying close beside her as the B&B came into view.

  That evening, they shared a simple meal in the dining room, surrounded by warmth, laughter, and the quiet companionship of those who had become family. As the night deepened, they all went their separate ways—Kai to her room, Rina to hers, and Shae and Marta to Shae’s. For the first time in a long while, Kai felt at peace.

  Shae guided Marta to her room. The door clicked shut behind them and in an instant, Shae had Marta pinned against the door, her hands gripping Marta’s wrists and held them above her head. Marta’s head of snakes waved about, their small tongues flicking in excitement. The Gorgon panted in want for her mate, but she stayed still, reveling in Shae’s dominance. Shae had been aching with desire since seeing Kai and the nymphs in the water, and she was determined to make her little mate feel good tonight. She looked into Marta’s eyes, seeing the anticipation and need reflected back at her.

  Slowly, she lowered herself to her knees, her hands trailing down Marta’s body as she went. She hooked her fingers into the waistband of Marta’s pants and underwear, yanking them down in one swift motion.

  This was Shae’s first viewing of her mate’s most private area, and she intended to enjoy it thoroughly. She spread Marta’s thighs apart, wedging her shoulders between them with little reservation. Then with out a second thought her mouth latched onto Marta’s lower lips, her tongue thrusting in without preamble. Marta’s legs gave out instantly, and she found herself sitting on Shae’s shoulders, gravity pressing Shae’s nose up against her clit and shoved her tongue in even deeper.

  Shae pushed her mate up the wall as she stood, her hands clutching Marta’s bottom, squeezing and gripping the soft skin. Marta was going out of her mind with pleasure, her breath coming in short gasps. She hadn’t realised how strong Shae was! Then she felt an eruption from inside, and before she could stop herself, she was squealing as she came hard. Shae drank from her like a woman dying of thirst, her mouth eagerly capturing every drop of her essence.

  When Marta went limp, Shae lowered her onto the bed, her mouth still attached to the Gorgon’s hot center. She grabbed Marta’s knees and pushed them further open and up, almost folding her mate in half as she dove back in, her tongue and lips working feverishly. Marta was delirious, the sensation of Shae forcing her body to cum again and again both heaven and hell. She lost count of how many times she climaxed, each one more intense than the last.

  Finally, after what felt like the tenth time, Shae let Marta’s legs drop and flipped her onto her stomach. Shae stripped Marta of the rest of her clothes and then removed her own, her beautiful black hair cascading down her back and her skin glowing in the moonlight streaming through the curtains. She laid her naked body on top of her mate’s, pressing flush against her. Her breath hot against Marta’s ear. "Marta, let me Take you," Shae begged, her voice husky with desire. "I want to feel you on my fingers. I want to thrust them so deep inside that you won’t know where you end and I begin." Marta whimpered at the dominance coming off Shae. She nodded her consent, her body trembling with anticipation. Shae growled at her mate’s submissiveness. “Oh little one… I am going to make you Mine!” She kissed Marta behind the ear gently. “If it gets too much, Moonlight is your safe word. Say it and I will stop. Do you understand little one?” Marta nodded, “Moonlight” she repeated at her maté’s direction. “Alright love, Hold on to something!” Shae warned as she nudged Marta’s legs open with her knees. Then without preamble proceeded to thrust her long, fingers into her mate’s hot center with complete abandon, pinning her with her body. Marta’s hips jerked, and she mewled in surprise and slight pain, grunting at the forceful intrusion. Her hands gripped the headboard. Her body pulling away from her mate. She hadn’t expected Shae to use more than two fingers, but Shae had other plans. As Marta tried to pull away she smacked her bottom hard enough to leave an impression. The action causing Marta’s insides to grip her fingers fiercely, making it a tighter fit. She groaned at the sensation. She intended to bury herself inside her mate, to fill her completely. She wanted her to feel every bit of her. She pressed down hard on Marta to prevent her from pulling away again. Shae moved slowly but steadily, her fingers scissoring and stretching Marta, preparing her for more. Marta panted and moaned, her body adjusting to the invasion. Shae’s other hand reached around to rub Marta’s little nub, sending jolts of pleasure coursing through her body.

  "That’s it, little mate," Shae cooed, her voice a sultry purr. "Take my fingers. Let me in." Marta relaxed further, her body opening up to Shae. She felt a slight burn as Shae’s knuckles pushed past her entrance, but the pleasure quickly overshadowed any discomfort. Shae’s fist was inside her, filling her completely. Marta let out a mewling squeal as she came suddenly. Her mate kissing and sucking on her neck and shoulder.

  Shae began to move, her fist pumping in and out of Marta, her hips thrusting against her mate’s bottom in an effort to relieve her own pent up passion. Marta met each thrust, her body rocking back against Shae, their skin pressing together. The room filled with the sounds of their lovemaking, their moans and gasps echoing off the walls.

  Marta felt another orgasm building, this one even more intense than the ones before it. She screamed Shae’s name as she came, her body convulsing around Shae’s fist. Shae pressed a kiss in between Marta’s shoulder and neck before biting down hard and piercing the skin. She sucked on the bite as she rode out her mate’s orgasm, her own body trembling with release as she rocked her hips against Marta’s backside.

  As Marta came down from her high, Shae gently licked the bite mark, sending healing magic through her tongue and leaving a mate mark that resembled the moon. She withdrew slowly from her mate, making sure to spread her fingers as they brushed against Marta’s inner walls. Marta moaned as another orgasm hit her at the removal. Shae carefully rolled Marta onto her back. She looked down at her mate, her eyes filled with love and desire. Marta reached up, pulling Shae down into a passionate kiss. "I love you, Shae," Marta panted against her lips. "I love you too, little mate," Shae replied, her voice soft and tender. "Forever and always."

  With that, Shae slid down Marta’s body, her tongue tracing a path down her neck, and her collarbone. At her breasts she stopped and took a nipple into her mouth. Sucking and nibbling as she rolled the other between her fingers, then switched giving them her full attention . Marta grew hot again and groaned as she wrapped her thighs around her mate and lifted her hips in an effort to press against her. “What you do to me!” Shae then released a nipple from her lips with a soft pop and descended down Marta’s stomach, until she was once again between her mate’s thighs. She looked up at Marta, a wicked grin on her face and stormy eyes.

  "Ready for more?" she asked. Marta moaned and nodded, her eyes wide and wanting.

  "Always ready for you, my love."

  And with that, Shae dove back in, her tongue and lips working their magic, bringing Marta to new heights of pleasure. The night was still young, and Shae intended to make the most of it, showing her mate just how much she loved and desired her. The Moon Fae blood reacting to the sacred act of Loving her Mate, causing her magic to flare and make the experience even more intense. Her little Gorgon would not be leaving the bed anytime soon! Not until Magic was satisfied.