Balor (Balor’s Saints MC #1)

Chapter Twelve

Balor

Stepping through the mansion’s grand entrance, Belladonna’s hand clasped in mine, I shivered as the heavy door groaned and closed behind us. Adrenaline still thrummed in my veins. I could feel Belladonna’s heart race, and even though we’d been victorious, I wasn’t sure the danger had completely passed. The club had followed us back and filled the entryway.

On the opposite wall, the grandfather clock chimed, the sound echoing through the space. I didn’t glance at it. The hour didn’t matter. There were more important things to deal with right now.

“I have some plans for the club,” I told them. “I want to be more involved with the town and its future. There’s no reason Darkwood can’t be a place where people like us coexist peacefully. And with me no longer hiding who I am…”

Jackson stepped forward. “We’re with you, Balor. Whatever you need.”

I inclined my head. “Thank you. I don’t plan to make all the decisions. I’d like to hear from all of you. I know some of you have skills I could use. And yes, we’ve already been putting stuff into motion over the years, especially the last five years, but I want to make additional changes, take on more than we already do.”

The others nodded, and I could see the wheels turning in their heads. I’d given them a chance to walk away, but they’d followed me into battle, and I was grateful. I knew I had their backing, and together we’d make Darkwood safe for our kind. And any humans who wished to live among us.

My chest swelled with pride. Not for myself, but for the men who’d come together to do what was right and protect those weaker than us. They were a good group, and I couldn’t have asked for better brothers.

“We’ll need to increase our presence in town,” I said. “Let the people of Darkwood know they have protection, other than from the Sheriff’s Department.”

The group broke out into low murmurs as they discussed ideas and ways to make it work. They’d likely wanted to do more for a while now. I knew they’d come up with some solid ideas on how to make it happen.

With a little effort, I could picture the town thriving and growing far more than it had since I’d created this place. I’d have to be careful how quickly we did things. Too much growth at once wouldn’t necessarily be a good thing. There was no doubt in my mind that we’d make it work. We had to. I wanted this town to be a safe place for my woman and child.

The group broke apart and I saw Belladonna sag a little, no doubt tired after everything that had happened. She held her head high, but I could see the fatigue in her eyes. I’d have to be careful not to tire her out too much in the future. She’d need plenty of rest for probably the next week, until she was firmly back on her feet.

“If you’ll excuse me, I think I’d like a bath and then get some rest,” Belladonna said.

I walked over to her and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I’ll be there soon.”

She nodded and walked up the stairs, her steps faltering a bit as she reached the top. I knew I wouldn’t be far behind her. I wanted to get some things in order first. Like how to keep her safe in the future, and to make sure the club knew they were welcome here, at least for now. I didn’t want them just barging in whenever, but I also didn’t want them to feel as if they couldn’t drop by when they needed us or wanted to visit.

I turned and walked down the hallway to my study. The men followed and filed in, taking seats around the room. I went to my desk and sat, then pulled out a few sheets of paper. I’d need to start making notes of what all needed to be done. If I wanted a future with Belladonna, and our child, I needed to make sure we were all on the same page.

The study felt familiar and alien at the same time tonight. I’d spent so many years in this room, but it was the first time I’d had hope for something more. The moonlight streamed through the window, illuminating the floor and shelves. It left an eerie glow as shadows clung to the corners and spread across the walls. I’d always felt like I had one foot in the darkness. Now I wanted more. I wanted to be the man Belladonna could be proud of, and the father our child needed. I’d hidden too long. I wasn’t even sure how to live my life in the open, but I’d figure it out. I’d do whatever it took to keep my woman and child safe.

I’d been planning every little detail for so long, all on my own. Always a step ahead of everyone else. I’d need to keep that mentality in the days, weeks, and months to come. It wasn’t going to be easy. Things were going to change, and I’d need to be ready.

I could see the future stretching out before me, the possibilities endless. It made my blood hum in my veins. I felt… alive. For the first time in years. I’d spent so long playing a part, I’d forgotten what it felt like to live. To truly enjoy things.

“This is my home. But I want you to feel like you can come here when you need to. We’re not just a club, we’re brothers.” I smiled faintly. “Although, I don’t want to have a revolving door. I have a pregnant woman after all.”

The men remained silent, waiting for me to continue. I folded my hands in front of me, letting my gaze lock with each of theirs. “I’ve been pulling the strings in Darkwood for a long time. But I need to be more accessible. I need to step into the light. I’ve done that with you, the sheriff, and the mayor. Now it’s time for the rest of Darkwood to know who I am.”

“How is this new plan for Darkwood going to work?” Collin asked.

“By finding a way to integrate with the town more. I have a few ideas, but I’m open to hearing yours. We need to show them we can be trusted to keep this town safe and be a support system for those who need it.”

I could see the men were thinking about my words. Jackson placed his hand over his mouth, his expression telling me he was in deep thought. I hoped it meant he was coming up with some ideas of his own. This was going to be a group effort.

“And how do you propose we do that?” Clay asked.

“Community outreach. There’s a lot the club has to offer, and I’ve never asked you to do more than make sure the peace is kept. I’d like to change that. Perhaps hosting some town events or partnering with businesses. Showing them we can be an asset in more ways than one. Humans and supernaturals have lived together here for a while now, even if the humans aren’t always as accepting as they claim. It’s time to weed out the bad seeds, show them intolerance won’t be allowed in Darkwood, and those who break the rules will pay a hefty price.”

I could see them all thinking, mulling things over. Despite the fact Collin was human, he didn’t seem to disagree with what I’d said. Then again, he wasn’t like the average humans I’d ever run across. Which was why he’d been welcomed into the club.

“I’d like to see us hold events at least once a quarter. The town has a festival every spring we should participate in it, and we could host something of our own in the summer. Perhaps a carnival. We could make quite a bit of money to pour back into the town. I doubt there would be much grumbling if we made sure the school and fire department received a portion.”

Ben nodded, tapping his fingers on his knee. “It’s not a bad idea. But who is going to plan all of this?”

“I’m sure if I asked Belladonna, she’d be willing to help. Maybe some of the townspeople would want to work side by side with us on a few of the projects, much like the men who stepped up tonight and fought alongside us.”

My fingers flew over the keyboard as I sent off emails to the mayor and sheriff, giving them updates on what occurred and the future plans of the Saints. I could feel the excitement building in my chest. The real work was only just beginning, but I was ready for it. With the club behind me, and Belladonna by my side, I knew I could face anything.

I turned to look out the window, my gaze landing on the moonlight landscape. I’d make Darkwood safe, not just for us, but for everyone who needed a place to belong. My hand flattened against the glass and I leaned forward, resting my forehead against the cool surface.

I closed my eyes and smiled. I’d never have guessed this day would come. Now that it was here, I was ready for it.

“Anyone else have any ideas?”

The men remained silent.

“We’ll discuss it further another day. For now, I think it’s time we all got some rest. I have a lot to think about, and I’m sure you do as well. I’m certain more ideas will come to us if we’re well rested.”

We were all exhausted, and I for one really wanted a shower. They filed out, some of them moving a bit slower than usual. Despite their fatigue, I could see their interest as well. I’d definitely given them something to think about. It was clear they liked the idea of showing the town what we could do.

As my brothers left the house, I went in search of Belladonna.

I paused in the doorway to our bedroom and saw her sound asleep. The moonlight bathed her in a gentle glow, softening her features and making her look at peace. I could remember the feel of her skin, and a part of me wanted to crawl into bed with her right now. I could see the residue of the battle on my skin. I didn’t want to touch her with that filth on me.

I stripped out of my clothes and went into the bathroom. The water heated quickly, and I stepped into the spray. I watched as the water sluiced over me, taking the grime from the battle with it. I’d nearly lost her, and I’d make sure nothing like that ever happened to her again. Whatever it took, I’d keep her safe.

The water turned pink where it swirled around the drain. I used the soap and scrubbed my skin, and when I felt like I’d gotten rid of everything, I turned off the water. I grabbed a towel and dried off, then went back into the bedroom. Pulling some sweatpants from my dresser drawer, I tugged them on then walked over to the bed and pulled back the covers. I slid in behind her and pulled her into my arms. I inhaled deeply, savoring the fact she was here. Safe . She stirred in her sleep and I kissed her brow, murmuring for her to rest.

With the trouble behind us, I could focus on the future. I couldn’t wait to see what would come next for Belladonna, our child, and the club.

* * *

Belladonna

My eyes fluttered open as the first light of dawn seeped through the heavy curtains, casting an ethereal glow across the room. Soft but penetrating, the light served as a gentle reminder of the new day’s promise, and the shadows still lingering in my heart. My throat tightened as I took in the quiet of the morning and felt the subtle chill in the air. He’d come for me. Just as he’d promised. I shouldn’t have doubted him. Shouldn’t have let my fear get the better of me.

My fingers tightened on the blanket covering me. It wasn’t only the room being cold that had me shivering. There was a chill in my soul, one I wasn’t certain would ever go away. I’d come too close to losing everything.

The walls around my heart… I’d built them high, reinforced them with iron and stone. Yet they’d crumbled when he’d held me in his arms. I hadn’t realized how badly I needed someone to care about me. Not just my body, or even my magic. But me. As a person. I should have realized sooner that I’d come to mean something to him. I wasn’t certain what our future might hold, but I knew he’d never hurt me. Or our child.

His eyes slowly opened, and he gave me a smile. I felt the warmth of it all the way to my very soul. He’d become someone so precious to me. When I’d first come here, I’d only thought to use him to ensure my own safety. But I’d ended up with so much more.

I threw my arms around Balor, the vulnerability I’d tried so hard to hide laid bare before him. My entire body trembled, a physical manifestation of the fear I’d felt, and the relief of being safe. The desperation in my heart must have threaded into my arms, because I clutched him tight, as if he might disappear if I let go. Balor’s warmth seeped into me, giving me comfort. Grounding me.

“I was so scared,” I said, my voice catching in my throat. I took a shuddering breath, a tear slipping down my cheek I hadn’t realized I’d shed until he wiped it away. “I’m so grateful you came for me. I know you said you would. I just…”

My voice trailed off and I felt another tear slide down my cheek. “I’m going to start looking like a watering pot if I don’t get myself under control.”

I sniffled and laughed a little while swiping at my cheeks. Balor watched me, quietly assessing me. It was almost as if he sensed I needed to get this off my chest.

I didn’t want to let him go. Not ever. I’d never had anyone fight for me before. Not the way he had. I swallowed hard and met his gaze, my fingers curling against his chest.

“I can’t say I’m sorry for tricking you into sleeping with me,” I said. “I know I should, but I can’t. Because I think you’re the best thing that ever happened to me.”

I focused on him, letting him see the depth of my gratitude. And my love. I hadn’t exactly said the words yet, but I was working up to it. I knew I needed to tell him how I felt.

The steady beat of his heart helping to ground me. I cast my gaze downward, my lashes shadowing my cheeks, as I gathered the courage to speak. “I mean it, Balor. I can’t say I’m sorry. I know I should. But I can’t.”

I knew I was repeating myself, but the words kept getting stuck in my throat. There was so much to say, and yet I was struggling to get each word free.

“My father’s house… it was always cold. I’m not talking about the temperature. I don’t know if magic lingered in that place, or if it was the darkness of my father’s heart. Maybe both. The house was dark and cold. And I never wanted to go back there.”

I took a breath and let it out slowly. “But you… you’re warm. Not just your skin. Your home. And I know it sounds silly, but I don’t want to leave. I love the way it feels here. The way you make me feel. I’ve never had anyone care about me the way you do. I’m not sure anyone ever cared for me at all.”

I let out a shuddering breath. “I’m going to love our child with everything I have. I hope that I’ll have the chance to love you too. Because I think I already do.”

I opened my mouth to say more and snapped it shut. I’d said enough. More than enough. I’d all but declared myself his, and even told him I wanted to be bonded with him. I wanted to be his. I wanted to see if he could ever truly be mine. I hadn’t really believed in love at first sight, but I’d fallen in love with him so easily. Was it possible for him to do the same? Or had I pushed him too far?

His hands settled on my waist, and I felt the strength in his touch. The way my body seemed to know his without even trying. He didn’t speak. Balor just watched me, his gaze roaming over my face before lowering to my throat and back to my eyes. I held my breath, waiting for him to say something. Anything. Had I gone too far? I’d practically confessed my love for him. What if he didn’t feel the same?

I lifted my head, my gaze locking with his. I didn’t know what he saw when he looked at me.

Balor’s hands smoothed up my back, one of them sliding into my hair. “Belladonna… I’m not sure I’ve ever loved anyone.” His voice was low, almost a whisper. “But I know I love you, Belladonna. I love you with a depth I didn’t know was possible.”

My breath caught in my throat. “You… love me?”

He nodded, his lips curving slightly. “I do. Even that first day, I knew I couldn’t let you go. That I needed you in my life. I’d already started making plans that included you and our child. I’d hoped I could convince you to stay with me. Or rather, I was determined to make you stay.”

“You’re not angry with me?”

Balor smoothed his thumb along my cheekbone. “No. Maybe in the beginning, but things are different now. I’m glad you’re mine, my beautiful Bella.”

He didn’t give me a chance to say anything else before his mouth covered mine. My lips parted and his tongue slid inside, stroking against mine. I felt the heat of his kiss all the way to my toes. I’d kissed him before, but this was different. There was a passion in it that hadn’t been there before. My body heated from the inside out, and I knew if I stripped out of my clothes, I’d be wet for him.

I dug my fingers into his shoulders, holding on as he tilted his head and deepened the kiss. He didn’t seem to mind the way my body pressed against his, or the way I trembled. His hand moved from my hair to my lower back, pulling me tighter against him. I gasped when I felt his cock pushing against me through his sweatpants. He was hard. For me.

I’d thought he was warm before, but I’d been wrong. So very wrong. The heat of his body soaked into mine, making me want to strip him bare and feel him skin to skin. I moaned into his mouth, rubbing myself against him. I didn’t want to stop. Ever.

Balor broke the kiss, his lips brushing down my neck. His breath was hot against my skin as he nipped at me. I shivered, feeling my panties dampen more. I’d never craved a man’s touch. Not until I’d met Balor.

“Are you uncomfortable?” he asked, his lips brushing my ear.

I swallowed and shook my head. Without breaking eye contact, he stepped back, his gaze locking with mine. I watched as he stripped out of his pants, and I placed my fingers against my chin to make sure I wasn’t drooling. I found him beautiful. I reached for him, and he kneeled on the bed, leaning into my touch.

“Do you want me to stop?” he asked.

I shook my head. Balor reached for me. He tugged my nightgown off, then stripped off my panties. He inhaled deeply, his eyes darkening as he took in my naked body. He pulled me close.

I let out a moan as he kissed down my neck, his mouth moving to my breasts. He took a nipple into his mouth and sucked on it, then teased the hardened peak with his tongue. He slid his hand down my body, his fingers rubbing my clit. I bucked my hips, needing more. So much more.

My heart raced as he pressed me tighter to the mattress, his body covering mine. He kissed down my skin, tasting me, teasing me. I arched into his touch, needing everything he could give me. He came back up my body, his lips brushing mine as he pressed his cock against my pussy. I let out a soft sigh as he pushed into me.

He moved slowly, taking his time. He kissed me with every thrust. I felt my body heating, the tension building. He rubbed against my clit with every thrust, and I felt my release building. I wrapped my legs around his hips, pulling him deeper. He let out a groan, his lips moving down my neck.

“You feel so good, Belladonna,” he said. “I love being inside you.”

I reached up and gripped his shoulders, holding him closer. “Don’t stop.”

His strokes became faster, his breath coming in heavy pants, and I tightened around him. His lips found mine again. I let out a scream, my orgasm hitting me hard. He thrust into me one last time, his body tensing as he followed me over the edge.

He kissed me again, then pulled back enough to look into my eyes. “I do love you.”

I reached up and cupped his cheek, feeling the stubble under my fingertips. “I know.”

He smiled softly. I gazed into Balor’s eyes, my heart swelling with everything we’d just shared. I leaned in slowly, my lips tentatively brushing his. His reaction was immediate and gentle, his hands cradling my face with a tenderness I hadn’t expected from him. Not that he’d ever been harsh with me, but it was still a surprise.

Our bodies drew closer as if we couldn’t stand to be apart. The warmth of his skin against mine sent a shiver down my spine. I could almost pretend the rest of the world had faded away, and it was only the two of us. That nothing existed beyond these four walls. His lips brushed mine, soft and warm. I tasted him on my tongue, the rasp of his stubble against my face only adding to the moment.

I threaded my fingers through his hair, pulling him closer. It helped to ground me, made me feel like I wasn’t floating away. His heart beat in time with mine, and I knew he felt it too. Whatever this was between us, it was something special. Something worth fighting for. I’d never felt this way about anyone before. Didn’t know I could feel this way. The depth of my feelings for Balor scared me a little. What if something happened to him? How would I survive?

I pushed the thoughts away. I’d never been one to dwell in the past or worry too much about the future. I’d always done what needed to be done, thinking quickly on my feet. That was how I’d ended up in Balor’s bed to begin with. I’d known my window of opportunity was small, and I’d seized it. If I’d taken a moment to think, I might have chickened out. If I’d known what it would be like with him, I would have tried to find a way to stay with him without tricking him.

The kiss was a promise. Whatever happened, we’d face it together. I knew he probably hadn’t wanted a witch for a mate. But he’d accepted it. Accepted me. I wasn’t a fool. I knew he’d been with other women. But I’d seen the way he’d looked at me, as if he wanted to devour me. I doubted he’d ever felt that way about anyone else before. He’d said he’d never loved anyone before me. I didn’t think he’d lie about something like that. I’d never felt cherished before, but I had a feeling he’d make me feel that way every single day.

I pulled back, my lips tingling. “Thank you, Balor.”

“For what?”

“Not making me feel like a fool for what I said. I meant every word. I’m just not sure how to be the woman you need. I’ve been locked away for so long, kept in a cage. I don’t know how to be a wife, or even a mate.”

“We’ll figure it out. Together.”

I smiled, and he took my lips in another kiss. I knew, whatever happened, we’d be all right.