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Chapter Text

Cressida

“You’re set to marry a Bridgerton,” her father announced across the breakfast table. 

Her entire life, Cressida knew she would likely be married off to someone. However, she assumed it would not be to one of their rival court members- let alone a royal. It took her a long moment to compose herself before she carefully rested her goblet of blood down. 

“A Bridgerton?” The name was sour on her tongue. “Tell me you are joking.” 

Her father, Azreal, let out a laugh then, and for a moment Cressida thought that all was well. A silly joke, that was all. Unfortunately for her, her father replied, “No, it is not a joke. Why would I joke about that?” Blood stained a stark white towel as he blotted his lips, scarlet seeping into the plush material. “Marriage is incredibly serious, especially for our kind, given it’s a rather… eternal commitment.” 

Something within her snapped, and white-hot rage left her eyes glowing. “Our courts despise one another! Our families, since the dawn of our creation, have been at war with one another. There have been no courts that have spilt more blood between them than ours.” 

“Our courts have not been at war for well over a century. I had words with Violet-”

“VIOLET?” Cressida yelled. “You’re on a first-name basis with the queen we loathe? Your father would be turning in his crypt.” He had been decapitated and set on fire by the Bridgertons… and it was hard for a vampire to come back from such.

With a roll of his eyes, Azreal said, “My father was not a warm man, so they likely did us all a favour with that. Cressida, my dear, you are twenty-seven. You are far too old for these… amateur dramatics. Now, as I was saying…” When she went to interrupt again, he held up a hand and his eyes flickered red in warning. “Remember your place. If you are to rule one day, you need to learn to respect your elders. And also, to open your arms up to new ways. No, we are not friends with their court, and yes, they do things vastly differently than us. But that is what I got to talking to Violet about.” 

A sour laugh left her lips. “So, you plan to marry me off to some Bridgerton man to enter a very sexless marriage that won’t grant them any offspring. Is that your tactic? Punishment for them?” 

“I am well aware of your lesbianism,” her father said with a hint of humour in his voice. “And as such, this was the perfect opportunity. Violet wished to find a match for Princess Eloise.” 

“Eloise.. as in…” 

“The middle Bridgerton daughter. A woman. The queen showed me a picture, and she is your type. Brown hair, feminine, shorter than yourself.” 

“That does not mean-”

“Timid, closed off, quiet. Loves her books.” King Azreal smiled, knowing that would start to win his daughter over. "An omega."

“A Bridgerton royal that is… not an alpha?” Cressida’s eyes widened. Most vampire royalty had their blood mixed with that of wolves. Long ago, it was done to strengthen the bloodlines of elite vampires and wolves- an agreement between them. It meant that royal wolves and vampires held dual abilities, which made them superb fighters. 

Whilst much of the wolf had been lost to their bloodlines over recent years, some aspects never dwindled. Most specifically, their alpha, beta, and omega hierarchy, which was used to denote strong leaders in certain areas. They also still had heats and ruts.  

In Cressida’s court, alphas took on war roles like fighting and protection, whereas omegas were cherished as their politicians and leaders. Omegas held minds that her court looked up to, which differed from many courts like the Bridgerton’s, which prized alphas in power. Because of this, one thing that the Bridgerton family prided itself on was that every Bridgerton was born an alpha.

Every last one. Until Princess Eloise. 

“She is an omega,” her father stated. “We are no longer at war with their people and have not been for a long time. With the hybrids causing a ruckus in the east of this country, it would not hurt to strengthen our alliances. However, Violet was interested in you for a reason. She has heard of your strength, of your power, and your involvement in our politics. She knows you are powerful, but with a steady head on your shoulders, and her daughter is not safe. She is a point in their family that will be targeted due to her standing. Violet wishes for her to be protected and safe, but the queen has refused every person who has come forward to offer their hand. 

“What is to say she will not take issue with me?” 

“You are heading to their lands to stay at the Bridgerton mansion. After you wed, you will be given a marital home on the property. They have armed guards, but Violet trusts no one with her daughter.” 

He was avoiding the question. King Azreal always had a talent for mincing his words. “Why trust me? Historically, we are enemies of theirs.” 

“The queen has done her research. She consulted seers, too, all of whom seemed to mention you by your full birth name.” 

That information wasn’t accessible to the general public. A vampire’s full name tended to be kept close to their chests- unlike the human names they used day to day. Only court leaders had access to those records. Which meant if a seer had used it, they were truly informed by the spirits. 

“So, I am heading to the middle of nowhere to offer myself up to her daughter as some kind of… bridge for our court? Fantastic.” 

“I know you well, my daughter. I know you have been a protector all your life, and I know that you will never be happy with a man or a fellow alpha. This is your chance to be that for someone who you will likely find a lifelong partnership with.” 

“What does she look like?” 

“Beautiful. Elegant.” 

“Anything like Daphne?” That was the one Bridgerton she had met.

“No, she’s quite different.” 

“Fine,” Cressida replied. “But if she pisses me off, I’m staking her.” 

“Do not joke about that,” her father chided. “Given your standing, never make threats about your partner, humorous or not.” 

With a scoff, Cressida gulped down the last of her blood. “I can still come back when I like?” 

“Of course. We will have a room sorted just for the two of you. There will be a short time where you will not be able to reach me, but Violet will give you the ability to use your devices once she knows you are trustworthy.” 

Great, so if she was murdered, it could take her court months to find out. “If she eventually gets pregnant with an heir…” 

“The child will hold dual positions in both royal courts,” her father stated. “It has already been agreed. They will be an heir to both lines- regardless of their standing.” 

“I suppose that would be good for the alliance.” 

“I understand that this is sudden, but I am hoping she gives you… purpose. You are always so bored here these days. It seems a waste to cast aside your combat and weaponry skills simply because we lack conflict. If the hybrids become more of an issue, the Bridgerton court is where your talents will be needed most. The hybrids despise them even more than they hate us.” 

She mulled over it for a moment and nodded. Cressida enjoyed protecting her people, but most of all, she loved the feeling of a dagger in her hand. Often, hybrids tried to harm the humans who lived in their lands. They fed on them violently and enjoyed seeing their pain. 

Whilst royalty were hybrids too, royal hybrids, also known as vaewolves, were far more level-headed. There were many rumours about how the new era of hybrids was being created, but typically, wolves and vampires struggled to produce sane offspring. Many years ago, when royals mixed their lines, it required a type of alchemy long since lost. Now, whoever was doing this had no care for what they were creating. They only wished to create a violent, blood and power-hungry army. They knew some of those who were behind it, but not enough about who they were acting with, or how. The how was the biggest question. 

Cressida didn’t take kindly to vampires utilising their power in grim ways. “How much danger is she in?” 

“Two major attacks this year.” 

“It is only January,” Cressida replied. “How shit is their security?” 

Barking out a laugh, her father replied, “The queen is going to love you. Or despise you. Who knows. Either way, you will be the best thing to happen to her daughter.” 

“I might even miss home,” Cressida said, keeping her voice nonchalant. 

“You will miss home,” he replied. “Violet is letting you have access to the training room, but you will need to keep the princess at your side as you train. Eloise will likely train beside you on occasion, and when she does, go easy on her.” 

“I’m not going easy on her just because she’s an omega. That’s offensive to omegas. I’m sure she can handle herself perfectly well.” 

“I meant because she is to be your wife. Hearts are not won by signatures on paper, Cressida. You will have to show her your… soft side.” 

Laughter tore from her lips. “Soft? What soft side?” 

“Hide it all you wish, I know that it is there. I am the person who had to tell off your uncle that time he hid your stuffed toy collection.” 

“I was five.” 

“Soft,” her father echoed. “You should head off now and pack your things.” 

“Ass,” Cressida shot back. 

“Oh, and Cressida? Do not make love to her until after you are ready to mate her. Bridgertons are very traditional in that sense. The queen would not take kindly to such behaviour.” 

“I think I can resist shagging a Bridgerton perfectly fine,” Cressida uttered. 

Once her many bags were packed and loaded into her SUV, Cressida rested her sunglasses on the bridge of her nose and huffed at the morning sun. 

“Remember you represent our court, and our people.”

“Yes, yes. I shall be on my best behaviour. No feral shagging.” 

“That isn’t saying much,” her father noted. “Good luck. The princess will be lucky to have you by her side. And we shall all miss you here.” 

“Christ, don’t get sappy on me.” 

“No sex before marriage!” her father reminded her. “You will be a perfect lady.” 

“So that’s a no to oral in public settings?” Her lip quirked with a smirk. 

“If I were human, I’m sure you would have sent me to an early grave by now. Best behaviour. The queen is apparently delightful, but she did not earn her place through smiles and niceties.” 

“Don’t let the queen shank me. Got it.” With a grin, she opened her car door. “Don’t forget Mother’s birthday. I will text to remind you if I have my phone by then, and yes, you need to actually write something in the bloody card.” 

“Is a name not sufficient?” 

“No,” Cressida replied. With that, she left, thankful her tinted windows now dimmed the low sun. 
 

Chapter Text

Cressida 

It was a long drive to the Bridgerton lands. Four hours of travelling in her car, most of it through the countryside where the roads were so narrow it left her holding her breath. She knew she was growing close when she smelled the lavender fields. In honour of King Edmund, after he lost his life, Queen Violet had lavender planted in many fields around their estate in his memory. Now it was said the area always smelled like his favourite plant. 

She had to admit that it warmed something in her. It was sweet to love to that extent. Cressida had never felt the pull of love, but she found it intriguing what it drove others to do in its honour. 

When she neared the main mansion, Cressida stared up at it in awe. This was where Queen Violet and some of her children lived; those who were yet to marry or were visiting. It was also the home to some of their closest staff. 

As the gravel crunched beneath her tyres, the main door swung open. Whilst Cressida’s people dressed in black tactical gear – even she, as a princess, did – the Bridgertons were more… appealing to humans. They dressed much like humans, but in clothing that cost extreme amounts. 

Now, a woman and a man stood there, and neither was in uniform like the men beside them. These two were unarmed, and she recognised the woman as Queen Violet. Her feet met the gravel as she stepped out of her car. Cressida slammed the door shut and smiled at them. “Princess Cressida Cowper,” she said. 

Violet stared at her for a long moment, and suddenly her fingers pinched Cressida’s chin and tilted it to the side. “You are more beautiful in person than in the photo your father showed me. What a gorgeous jaw.” 

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” 

“Violet is fine,” she assured. “Before you meet my daughter, I wish to know that the rumours of your strength and abilities are true. Eloise needs someone we can put all our faith in, so this here is my son, Anthony.” 

“Pleased to make your acquaintance,” he said, offering his hand. 

Taking it into her own hand, Cressida shook it firmly. “And how do you wish to find out if they are?” 

“We will test you,” Violet said. “If you would follow us to our combat grounds, you shall be sparring with my son.” 

“I am the best fighter in our lands,” he said. “If you can hold your own with me and last a few minutes before I win, we shall deem you strong enough to protect my sister.” 

“You say that as if you will win,” Cressida replied. 

“I will.” 

God, he was an insufferably cocky bastard. “We shall see about that.” 

“I trained under Lord Hamish in Scotland. The strongest vampire of our century. There is no shame in loss,” he said as they walked. “It is inevitable. It is merely a question of how long you shall last.” 

“Most people last less than ten seconds with my son,” Violet stated. “If you manage a few minutes, we shall know you are capable.” 

“Bare hand or weapons?” 

“We shall do two rounds. The second with knives and the first hand-to-hand,” he explained. 

“Any rules?” 

“No serious harm. Minimal wounds like tendons and bones are fine, but no deep stabbing aimed at organs,” Violet stated. “Anthony is a fast healer, a perk of our genetics, but an organ wound like that would take him four days to heal from. And you, likely the same.” 

“I heal faster than that,” Cressida said casually. “But I agree to those terms.” 

“You heal faster?” Violet said, her interest clear. 

“Twice as fast as your son for organ damage.” 

“Common for your people?” Violet asked. 

“No. I was born on a blood moon.” 

That stopped her in her tracks. “A royal of a blood moon? Your father did not mention that.” 

“It is not public knowledge. Even our people celebrate my birthday the day after. My father worried such news would paint a target on my back- especially when I was young.” 

“Do you have undisclosed powers?” Violet asked, knowing what such meant. Royals born on a blood moon were a rare occurrence, even when courts tried to time the births to the best of their ability. No one knew why, but they were like gold dust. However, when one was naturally born under the moon, they tended to hold more powers than others.

Cressida swallowed and began walking again, letting the two of them fall in step as they headed towards the combat building. “Several.” 

“I will need to know what they are if you are to marry Eloise.” 

“They will be disclosed, but only to you for now.” 

Seemingly agreeing with this, Violet did not push her for more details in front of her son. Unique powers were rarely revealed freely unless someone trusted the person that they were sharing them with. Only Cressida’s parents knew of hers, and her medical team, until now.

“This is our combat building,” Anthony said. “I think you will find everything here you shall need; if not, we can likely source it.” 

“It is more than adequate,” Cressida said, casting her eyes across the equipment. The Bridgerton monarchy had more wealth than her own family... and land. 

He guided her to the mats, where Cressida took off her knives and placed them to the side. She was surprised they weren’t removed from her upon entry. Hopefully, it was a demonstration of trust, putting aside their families' past hatred for one another. 

She waited for Anthony to call it and then took her time watching his feet and hands, tracing the way he shifted his weight into a defence stance when Cressida faked a lunge. It was always hard with people you didn’t fight with on a regular basis, trying to figure out how they would proceed. 

Anthony lunged at her, taking her off her feet. He was aggressive, faster than any vampire she had ever trained against. However, Cressida was faster. She moved her legs into a lock and rolled him with her, pinning him momentarily before he escaped. As she stood, a foot came towards her head and she caught it, gripping his ankle and slamming it downwards, causing his body to spin and hit the mat.

The surprise on his face was enjoyable. Oh, how men tended to underestimate women. 

“You’re fast.” 

Her lip curled with a smug smile. “You’re slow.” 

This time it was punches, so many without expectation that Cressida failed to block one and grimaced as his fist met her nose. His knuckles were like stone, and as blood poured down her face, Cressida spat on the mat and moved to block his next punches. 

He was overenthusiastic, which led to mistakes. Clearly, he was trying to prove that he was superior. They sparred for two minutes more, with many blows exchanged. Some met their mark, but most were futile. Eventually, Cressida saw her opening. She deflected a punch, spun and managed to kick the back of his knee, sending him to the ground as her forearm wrapped around his neck. 

He fought, but it was no use. Cressida’s strength was unparalleled by any vampire. Normally, she concealed the full extent of it, but now, she smiled as the man choked for air in her arm, his face going red as his hands clawed desperately at her, even drawing blood. 

Finally, a tap was given. Then another. 

Cressida released his neck as he dropped to the floor, and when she looked up, she saw Violet’s wide smile. 

Pride. 

“Weapons. Once my son catches his breath.” 

Knives were Cressida’s favourite. So, when Anthony presented her with one, she rolled it around as she got used to the handle and weight in her palm. 

This time, he was slower. He knew that speed would win him nought, so he watched Cressida with a keen eye as they circled one another. 

His first lunge was well timed. It earned him a deep gash across Cressida’s cheek and a second slash along her abdomen- deep enough that she hissed in pain. However, men were cocky. The moment she felt him celebrating his small achievement, Cressida took to him like prey. Slash after slash, Cressida took that blade against him. All whilst fending off his own attempts effortlessly. Her last slash was placed behind his knee, and after she drew the knife across it, she spun behind him and pressed the knife to his throat. 

It was embarrassing, really, how quickly she had won that. 

“It seems the whispers did not do you justice,” Violet said. 

Cressida released Anthony and helped him to stand, wrapping her arm around his waist when he realised that he could rest no weight on his right leg yet. “Give it a few hours, and you’ll be all good. Likely a tendon.” 

“Your strength; you weren’t using all of it,” he said. “When you choked me. You relaxed your arm.” 

“I did not wish to kill you. It seemed like it might piss your sister off, and that's no way to win her affection.” 

With a chuckle, Anthony shook his head. "Eloise will like you. You're just as maddening as she is."

“I have seen enough. Cressida, if you could come with me,” Violet said. “Kiran, help Anthony to his room to rest.” 

Her team quickly patched them both up, just enough to minimise the bleeding. After she was fixed up, Cressida followed the queen to her office, surprised when she excused all her staff. “If you are to be a part of our family, I need to know everything. Anything you tell me now is protected by our agreement with your father. None of it shall be mentioned again, other than to Eloise if it is necessary. I need to know if you have skeletons in your closet, Princess Cressida. I wish to hear of all your powers, and the full extent of your strength.” 

“Anthony mentioned he trained with Lord Hamish in Scotland. The undefeated vampire fighter.” 

“Yes, he trained there for two years,” Violet agreed. 

“I trained with him also, for a year when I was fifteen. It is not true that he is undefeated. I lost to him for the first month of my training, and after that, he spent eleven months trying to beat me. That was before the full extent of my powers came in. I possess many old powers, more so than any vampire I know of. I can shift, but in the old vampiric sense, not the wolf one; my shift animal is a panther. I hold influence, especially over humans and non-vampires.” Cressida lifted her hand then and flicked it, feeling a candle across the room moving directly into her palm. 

“Telekinesis,” Violet said. “Rare. I haven’t met a shifter in a long time, either, and never a panther.” 

“And telepathy. Though that one is quite temperamental.” 

“Four powers. My children hold two at most. I have never even heard of someone with more than three.” She drummed her fingers on the desk. “And the skeletons in your closet?” 

Cressida smiled. “I am quite an… amorous vampire. I have slept with many women, which I realise is not a good image for a royal.” 

“If you are married to my daughter, will you seek affections elsewhere?” 

“No,” Cressida said confidently. “Nothing sickens me more than cheating. And I realise that would harm your image as well as mine. If I marry Eloise, I will commit to her body and soul.” 

“Anything else?” 

She wet her lips and considered holding one thing back, but it could come out eventually, and Violet would not forgive that. “I killed a human once who was not placing a vampire in danger, and my father covered it up.” 

“That is against our laws.” 

“I realise that. It is why he covered it up. I didn't think I would suit an orange jumpsuit; it would look heinous against my complexion.” 

“Why did you do it?” Violet asked, her voice tense. 

“Our council never asked that. But the human man was attempting to assault a woman in an alleyway. I took his head off his body. Fed him to the pigs. Influenced the woman to forget the whole thing and ensured she got back home fine.” 

In a move that surprised Cressida, Violet laughed loudly. “Sometimes bending of the law is needed.” 

“I would agree. There is nothing else in my closet. Other than my blunt and sarcastic nature that tends to piss people off.” 

“My husband had a dry wit just like yours. You will find it in my daughter, too.” Violet pulled a scroll from her desk. “I hear you’re protective of your people.” 

“Overly so,” Cressida stated. “Sometimes I forget to spare those who try to harm them.” 

“If someone came for my daughter when she was yours?” 

“They wouldn’t have time to regret it, because they would likely be dead,” Cressida stated, running her tongue over her fang. “Does that worry you?” 

“Years ago, it would have. I never would have considered letting you into my estate. I would have hated everything you said, and all that you have done.” Violet took the cap off her pen. “Years ago, Edmund was taken from me. Murdered. That silver spoon I was raised with and that false sense of eternal safety were ripped from me. The real world began to bleed in around the edges. I learned that sometimes what is wrong is not always wrong. Sometimes violence is borne of protection, and protection is needed especially in these times. Hybrids are seeking any power they can get. They are becoming more violent, and they wish for all humans to be their submissive workers. We cannot allow that, and I cannot allow them to harm anyone. Especially Eloise. She reminds me so much of Edmund, but that is why I worry so greatly. Both were omegas, which does not make them weak but does make them targets to power-hungry alphas.” She shook her head. 

“My father mentioned that there have been two attacks this year.” 

An audible swallow filled the air between them. “The second attack was when I spoke with your father. One of the hybrids attempted to force mate Eloise. He was pulled from her by Anthony.” 

“He tried to claim her without consent?” Cressida seethed, her eyes flickering to a deep blood red. She was used to hybrids doing cruel things, but that was against even ancient laws. 

“Yes. He scraped her skin but did not pierce her deep enough for a claim. It... It left Eloise on edge. She has always been quiet, but now… she doesn’t feel safe. My daughter avoids leaving her room and hates being around people she does not know.” 

“Understandable,” Cressida stated. “If someone did that to me…” She shook her head. “I would have every organ of theirs hanging outside the estate.” 

“Anthony was… less than kind to him,” Violet said. 

“Will she wish to be wed to me if she doesn’t like the company of others?” 

“Eloise has always felt most comfortable around Anthony and Benedict. They are the strongest alphas in my family. As an omega, she takes comfort in strength. Now she does not even feel safe with them at her side. She needs a mate to avoid further claiming risks, but more than that, she needs someone she trusts to keep her safe.” 

“I will ensure she is always safe,” Cressida said, unwavering. “If anyone lays a hand on her, I will see that it is removed before they can take another breath.” 

“And you will treat Eloise well? I asked around. Everyone said you were respectful of omegas, but I need to know that you will not abuse your place as her alpha. If I get one whiff of abuse-”

“I would never,” Cressida snapped. “My people are not like that. We prize omegas in our court and ensure they have all they need. Whereas your people often see it as a weakness, my court sees it as a blessing from the gods. Omegas may not hold the strength that alphas do, but they hold intellect and empathy that ours pales against. I would never harm Eloise, physically or verbally.”

“I wish more of our people saw it that way,” Violet said. “And the hybrids. They’re even more set in their ways as seeing it as a weakness.” 

“Omegas hold more cunning than alphas could ever imagine. Most of our politicians are omegas. Alphas are often too bull-headed and do not think things through.” Cressida tended to think firstly with her anger and then with rationality. 

“You can sign here to complete your father’s wishes. After that, I shall introduce you to Eloise.” 

“What if she does not like me?” Cressida asked. 

“I’ve consulted seers. They are rarely ever wrong.” 

With that, Cressida let her name bleed into the paper, the dark ink spreading through the parchment as she signed it. “When do we mate and marry?” 

“As soon as possible. But you are not to mate her until Eloise agrees in a sound of mind state. You will marry her shortly after she is mated as a mere display for the public.” 

Mating bites were eternal and considered the true marriage for vaewolves. The wedding was more of a human formality, paperwork and a display that held little meaning to their kind. 

Following Violet and her guards around her mansion, she couldn’t believe the size of the place. They walked up four sets of stairs and many corridors before they got to a narrow one filled with many sconces. 

“You are to remain at her side as much as possible. Eloise will either adore or hate that fact, but it is needed to protect her.” 

“With my life,” Cressida promised. 

She wondered what Eloise would look like. All Bridgertons possessed a kind of flawless beauty, but Cressida never felt drawn to those she had seen. So, she expected exactly that. No draw, but hopefully, with time, they would get on enough to survive a marriage together. 

Opening the door, Violet said, “Eloise, I would like you to meet Princess Cressida Cowper.” 
 

Chapter Text

Cressida

Stepping inside the door, Cressida was met with the sight of Princess Eloise. Immediately, it was as if her breath had been stolen from her. The woman sat on her bed in a tartan skirt, a white turtleneck, and woollen socks. Her makeup was fairly plain, elegant but minimal. Brown hair framed her face in soft waves, and Cressida felt as if the girl were a picture to behold. Glasses were perched on her nose, and Eloise immediately took them off as a flush stained her cheeks the most divine shade of pink, like the roses in her family’s gardens back home. 

“Who?” And then in a harsh whisper. “Mother, why are you bringing a random woman into my room?” 

“Given everything, I wanted you to have someone who can keep you safe. Cressida is to be your wife.” 

“My…” Eloise’s eyes widened. “What makes you think she could keep me safe?” 

“She defeated your brother twice half an hour ago with great ease,” Cressida replied, smiling teasingly. “I am a royal born of a blood moon. If anyone could protect you better than me, I would like to meet them.” 

“You beat Anthony?” Her disbelief was apparent.

“Twice,” Violet agreed. “I have seen what Cressida can do. And she is very beautiful, do you not think?” 

“Mother!” The omega’s annoyance was endearing, and Cressida found she adored the slight pout to her bottom lip. 

“I shall leave you both to get to know one another. All guards out of the room, please.” 

Eloise swallowed thickly at that. “What if she wishes to hurt me?” 

“I have signed documents that would put my people at great risk if I did.” But Cressida could scent her palpable fear from where she stood. So, she took her knives from her straps and carefully placed them beside Eloise before stepping back. “All yours.” Everyone began filtering out of the room, and as soon as the door shut, Cressida smelled the omega’s anxiety spiking. They were alone now, and the omega seemed to hate that. Slowly, Cressida sat down on the edge of the bed and held her hand so that the palm faced upwards. “Pass me your hand.” 

“Why?” 

“Contact with alphas can calm omegas’ worries to a degree. I do not wish to hurt you. Should I do so, my people would all be at risk because of it. I realise you do not yet know me, but I think you know how much your mother must have looked into me before trusting me to be in a room alone with you.” When a nervous hand met her own, Cressida gently rubbed her thumb across it in soothing motions. “Pick up the knife.”

“Why?” 

“Because I think you need a reminder that you hold more power than I in many ways. I could overpower you with force, yes. But my people see omegas as the pride of our court. We trust them with our life, and-” Cressida guided Eloise’s hand that now held a knife up to her throat, pressing it down until the blade drew Cressida’s blood. “We devote ourselves to them enough that we see it as an honour to die in order to protect them.” She smiled. “You could kill me now if you wished. I’d rather you didn’t, but the offer is there.” Eloise finally relaxed and dropped the knife. Placing it to the side of her, Cressida left her palm facing upwards on the bed once more and felt a sense of relief when Eloise placed her hand back in her own. As she did, Cressida felt the strangest rush through her body. “Your mother has already bled me dry of information, but I am an open book for you.” 

“Your court hates ours.” 

“Historically, yes. But we are more than our history and times change.” 

Her fingers began playing with Cressida’s. “Powers?” After Cressida listed them off, Eloise added, “A panther? Would you allow me to see you like that?” 

“Should you wish,” Cressida said. 

“Why did you agree to this?” Eloise asked. “Surely someone with your… beauty and strength would have better options.” 

She wished to scoff at that. Better options. Whilst she wished to reassure Eloise of her beauty, she didn’t want to come off as too much too soon. “I heard you liked books. My father knew I liked only women, and he knew what I looked for in a personality. I think you were a superb choice.” 

“You weren’t mad?” 

“Like you are now?” Cressida teased. She could feel Eloise’s irritation ever since her mother stated they were to be wed. “I was. Very much so. I do not like my life being dictated to me, but I am a royal. I knew this time would come, and my fear was that I would be stuck with a man, or another alpha.” 

“At least I’m not that,” Eloise replied. “I don’t know what my mother was thinking.” 

“She was worried about your safety, and that someone tried to force mark you.” 

“She told you about that?” Eloise hissed, pulling her hand away. 

“Hand,” Cressida said, scenting Eloise’s anxiety like spices in the air. As it returned to her own, Eloise calmed. “I am not here to judge. I am an alpha, but I am still a woman, and I know what some men are like. That was certainly a new low, however. Your mother was understandably worried, not just for your safety but for your comfort. I think it was best she told me, that way I am more cautious of the space you will likely need from time to time. It couldn’t have been easy, and I am always here to listen. We can also never mention it again if you would prefer that. Either way, it worried her, as did the multiple attacks. I was not lying when I said I am the strongest vampire those I have met know, and I will protect you always.” 

“I can protect myself.” 

“I know,” Cressida said. “But it never hurts having an extra pair of hands to wring someone's neck.” 

“I do not think that you want me as a wife. I’m not well versed in… relationship matters,” Eloise admitted, shifting awkwardly. 

“I have never been in a relationship, though I did admittedly take frequent comfort in women in other ways.” 

“I have only done that once,” Eloise replied. “And I did not enjoy it.” 

“I see.” 

“Does that bother you?” 

“No,” Cressida replied. “I was prepared to be married off to a man, so my whole life I had been preparing for a sexless marriage, regardless. I have my hand to take care of my needs.”

“But you like having someone in your bed usually?” 

“Eloise,” Cressida said. “That does not matter.” 

“It does.” 

Cressida gave her hand a squeeze and rose, choosing not to answer that again. Whilst she would struggle with it, that was not Eloise’s issue. And she meant it when she said she was prepared for this. Being married to a woman, however, and a sweet one at that, Cressida would be thankful for. “We will have to remain in close proximity. I will become your 24/7 guard.” 

“So, you shall be sleeping in here.” 

“I can take your armchair.” 

“That is hardly suitable for sleep,” Eloise replied. 

“It is fine. Can you walk me through your usual routine?” She sat there in the chair as Eloise began to talk her through everything. Rarely did she leave the estate at present, but before the attacks, she enjoyed heading to book and antique stores. She liked museums and the local botanical gardens. Then there were her duties. Eloise enjoyed sitting in on political meetings between courts, and she worked with the archivists at the court library, sourcing certain materials for them. 

“What do you like? I am not the only one with a life.” 

There was little Cressida liked that she could have now. She liked clubbing and finding women at blood clubs who enjoyed being drunk from. She liked drinking, and riding her bike, and most of all, she liked fighting. None of which were fitting for a married princess. “That does not matter.” 

“It does.” 

“I would like to keep up my combat skills.” 

“We shall head to the combat building once a day when we are not busy otherwise,” Eloise promised. “But that is not all you do. And I would rather you not hide who you are from me. You talked of building trust, and to trust you, I need to know you.” 

“I enjoy clubs,” Cressida stated. “Usually vampire/human ones. I liked drinking from those I fell into bed with.” 

“We can go to a club,” Eloise said. “But the rest…” 

“I do not expect you to go to a blood club, El.” 

Eloise blushed as the nickname fell from her lips. “Anything else?” 

“My motorbike. I left it back home, but my father is arranging transport. However, I cannot leave you and-”

“I could ride on the back,” Eloise finished. “Anything more?” 

“No. Only small things, nothing I can think of at present. My only concern is my combat. As an alpha, it helps work off some of my excess energy. Otherwise, I get a bit... pent up.” She played with her knife between her fingers, a nervous habit. Cressida was not overly fond of talking about herself. She was used to concealing things, so all of this was new to her. 

“My brothers are the same,” Eloise said. “They get rather huffy when they don’t expend their energy in the combat room. I’ll ensure we’re there as many days as possible.” 

“It will be boring for you,” Cressida warned. “Normally, I spend an hour or two training.” 

“I can bring a book.” Gesturing to the three shelves in her bedroom, Eloise seemed less than worried about her partner's need to work out. “A perk of reading is that I can do so anywhere.” 

“You seem awfully calm for someone who was just told they’re marrying someone from previously enemy territory.” It was strange how calm Eloise felt now. That initial irritation had ebbed away, and now her scent was sweeter. 

“Like you, I spent my life being prepared to be wed to a man. My mother had her eyes set on Prince Delmont.” 

Laughter tore from Cressida’s lips. “That vampire wouldn’t know strength if it hit him square in the face.” She supposed he was handsome, but he was also a complete pompous ass and uncoordinated buffoon. 

“Yes, I assume that is why my mother sought you out. Given the attacks on me, Delmont would be dead and likely so would I within a month of our mating.” She joined Cressida in her laughter. As their laughter settled, their scents seemed to mingle in the air between them- something Cressida had never experienced before. Normally, if a vampire had wolf in its ancestry, their scents would only mingle after many years of knowing each other. It was a sign of a long-standing friendship bond, or a romantic one with mates, but Eloise was neither to Cressida. 

As their scents intertwined with one another and created something new altogether, Eloise’s brow pinched in confusion. “Our scents…” 

“I have not heard of this before,” Cressida said. Scents were not meant to do this. To join with one another into something new and mixed. Normally, they danced around one another, layered in a way, but they did not create something new. Their joint scent was something beautiful, moreish and the perfect blend of sweet and woody. 

She felt Eloise taking her hand again, of her own accord this time, without an offer. “I can consult my mother later. Would you like me to show you around?” 

That surprised Cressida, given that Violet had admitted that Eloise didn’t like leaving her room much since the attack. Something of pride swelled in Cressida’s chest, hoping that Eloise felt more comfortable because of her protection. “I would love that.”
 

Chapter Text

Cressida

As they walked through the mansion, Eloise pointed out all sorts of things. The building itself was old in design, well built with cobblestone walls in some areas and ornate staircases with gothic woodwork. At the end of the current bannister was a gargoyle with fangs. Letting her fingers trace across it, Cressida smiled. The place was beautiful, the perfect mix of old and modern. 

“And down here we have-”

“Eloise? You’re out of your room.” Daphne Bridgerton stood in the hallway, her surprise obvious. A moment later, the alpha's nose creased, and her eyes shot down to their hands that were joined. “Why on earth is there a Cowper holding your hand?” 

“Daphne!” Anthony called out. He headed towards them, still with a limp. However, he moved at speed, seemingly worried that his sister might maul their new addition to the court. 

“What on earth happened to you?” Daphne asked. 

“I was bested in combat. Twice,” he admitted. He seemed both irritated and somewhat prideful as he met Cressida’s gaze. 

“Bested? You are never bested. By whom?” 

“Eloise’s soon-to-be mate,” he uttered. “Mother arranged a marriage between them. One that will be beneficial to both courts. Cressida, nice seeing you again. Glad you’re not armed this time.” 

“Likewise,” Cressida replied. “You can have another try if you wish.” 

“I might just take you up on-” His nose scrunched up, and he looked between them. “Why have your scents changed?” It twitched again, and this time he moved closer. “The two of you no longer have your own scent.” 

“It changed a few minutes after we met,” Eloise replied. “I do not know why, and no, she has not mated me.” 

“Even mates’ scents do not meld to one,” Anthony stated. 

“A mystery,” Eloise replied. “Now, are you done noting our scents? I need to show Cressida the library.” 

His focus returned to their hands, and Cressida gripped Eloise’s tighter when she scented some nervousness from her. As her grip tightened, the omega relaxed. 

“You bested my brother. Not an easy feat,” Daphne noted. 

Again, her hand tightened around Eloise’s. She felt the warmth of her hand in her own, but there was something else there. A pull that was soothed as soon as she squeezed it. “I would disagree. It was quite easy to take him out.” 

“Are you always so cocky?” Anthony asked. 

“Yes. I do believe it’s earned.” She shot him a wink. 

With a laugh, Anthony shook his head. “If you were a man, I would find you insufferable. Delmont is a cocky bastard, too.”

The air prickled then, Eloise and Cressida’s joint scent turning to something spicy. Such scents were normal for an alpha when experiencing jealousy or protectiveness, and Cressida knew why hers had changed. She was aware that Delmont was her competition for Eloise and hated him because of it. However, those scents shouldn’t happen with non-mated wolves. 

“Have you bitten my sister?” Anthony asked, suddenly tense.

“No, we are not mated yet,” Cressida said. 

“Your neck,” Anthony said, looking irritated. 

Eloise huffed but showed him her unmarked scent gland on her neck. 

His confusion only grew as he stared at the skin, seeing no mark present. “Cressida, perhaps you should see our doctor. Find out why there are issues with your scents.” 

“No,” Eloise said with a firm voice that startled them all. Her fangs had dropped, and she looked angered. “I… I just mean that we are busy, and Cressida is meant to remain at my side.” Finally, Eloise’s fangs receded, but Cressida couldn’t stop staring at where they had been moments ago. 

“Anywhere that I go, Eloise goes with me,” Cressida stated. “Your mother’s orders.” 

“Well, perhaps the two of you should visit,” Daphne said. “I have been mated to Simon for years, and even my protective scent does not carry that much strength.” 

“We will,” Cressida promised. “Now, I must drag Eloise away to the library that I was promised I could see.” 

As they headed off, Cressida squeezed her hand tightly again. Once they got closer to the library, Eloise’s anxiety only grew. “You’re not leaving, are you?” 

“No. It is your choice if we mate or not, and I will not leave unless you decide that you do not want me.” 

They headed through the door to the library, and Eloise’s thumb brushed across Cressida’s knuckles. “I do not wish for you to leave.” 

“Then I shan’t.” 

“Did you mean what you said about remaining by my side?” 

Cressida smiled. “Even if you grow annoyed at me, I shall remain close, always. I made a promise to your mother, and I intend to keep it. Your safety falls upon my shoulders now. I do not take that lightly.” 

Finally, the omega relaxed and dropped Cressida’s hand as she began to show her the books. “Do you have a favourite genre? If you read, that is.” 

“Historical works,” Cressida said. “I prefer non-fiction. I like to be prepared, and history tells us much of what we should be prepared for. Vaewolf politics intrigue me too, especially when our laws were agreed with humans.” She looked at the worn leather on some of the older titles and wondered just how old those books were. “And you?” 

“Fiction,” Eloise replied. 

“What kind?” When no reply was given, Cressida smiled. “Hiding things from me already? Intriguing, Princess Eloise.” 

“God forbid a woman have a little mystery.” But Eloise’s cheeks had flushed as she rattled off her sarcastic reply, which only intrigued Cressida further. 

...

That night, as dinner was served, Cressida was seated between the queen and Eloise for her welcome meal. As soon as they sat, Violet took note of their scent just as her children had. However, she never pried. “How interesting,” Violet said, her voice measured as she looked between them.

Cressida was unsure what she meant, but as the meal started, she reached for the blood. Yet instead of filling her own goblet, she filled Eloise’s and passed it back to her. Again, she felt the attention in the room on her due to the fact that she innately treated Eloise as one would a mate. 

“Thank you,” Eloise said, bowing her head slightly. 

And because Eloise reacted in a way that a mated omega would. 

The sight left Cressida’s fangs aching, and she busied herself with the blood, happily taking the distraction. She knew something was different, wrong, between them. However, she didn’t wish to worry when it didn’t feel such. If anything, it felt right- natural, like her body was acting in its true nature. 

“How are you finding it here? It must be different from back home,” Daphne commented after she swallowed a long sip of blood. 

The blood here was fresher than theirs. Richer, too. Regardless, Cressida would not mention that. She did not wish to cast more judgment upon her people, and the Bridgertons would love hearing of their court's lack of luxury. 

“Different. My people are far more… gothic. Traditional modern in a sense.” Her people still wore only black and silver, though now, instead of traditional clothes only, they mixed modern tactical aesthetics with it. “It is odd seeing so much colour.” 

“Do you sacrifice humans once a year?” Someone asked. 

“Colin!” Violet snapped. 

“What? I’ve heard things.” 

"No, several times. Once seems underwhelming, does it not?" When everyone stared at her in horror, Cressida cracked a smile. “Joking, of course. We’re protective of humans, and no, we do not do that. Once a year, we host a meal with humans, but the humans are not the meal. We get chefs in to prepare food for them- a banquet with meats and vegetables. Our people believe it is important to build ties with the humans who live within our lands. They’re key to our trade and daily lives, as we are to them. Sacrificing isn’t really our thing. Sounds like an awful mess to have to clean up, don’t you think?” 

Colin snorted and refilled his goblet. “It does.” 

“Is it true that you were set to lead your people?” It was Daphne this time. 

“I was. My father seemed to think it more important to build ties here, and I go where I best suit the needs of my people. Alliances should never be overlooked. Carter will likely succeed my father.” 

“And if Eloise and you have a child?” Colin asked, causing Eloise to choke on her blood. 

Moving her hand to her back, Cressida smoothed her palm across it and lifted a napkin to Eloise’s lips, dabbing it against the blood that coated her chin. “Are you alright?” A nod was given in return as Eloise shifted her focus to her brother. “Good.” Cressida placed the napkin down and let out a slightly irritated breath. Colin clearly enjoyed pulling his sister's strings. “If we have a child, should that be something Eloise wishes for or your court requires, it has been agreed that they will have a dual claim. They will be a child of both courts, a symbol of our union and alliance. It will grant them a great deal of safety, too.” Having two courts' protection behind them was nothing to be sniffed at. That kind of backing was needed, especially given the attempts on Eloise. The thing was that this was day one of meeting Eloise, and she knew that question would make the omega uncomfortable. “Not that it is something we need to be considering anytime soon. So, who might you all be?” 

She let her fingers move against Eloise’s, casting a soothing thumb across her knuckles as had become routine. Everyone in the room introduced themselves, and yes, Eloise was the only omega of the siblings. It was also clear that her older siblings were extremely protective of her as questions began to pour in about Cressida’s skills and her ability to protect their sister better than they could. 

“Shift for us,” Daphne said. There was a scepticism to her tone, clearly a disbelief in Cressida’s talents. Shifting abilities were rare, and most held abilities like bats and small cats. Some still held the ability to shift into wolf form from their ancestors, but even that was dwindling. A panther, however, was a first of Cressida’s kind in this age. The others recorded with that ability lived many centuries ago; as such, it was considered an ancient talent, something lost to the modern ages.

“If I shift, I cannot turn back for a while after.” 

“Can you protect Eloise in that form?” Violet asked.

“Perfectly well,” Cressida replied. “I still hold my abilities in that form and have quite the set of teeth on me.” She had seen her reflection in the mirror once. Her form was substantially bigger than a normal panther; her teeth were also sharper and more daunting. But she could still use her other abilities too, and knew she would keep Eloise safe in either form. She could likely tear Anthony apart if he wished to take her on in practice in that form. “I can shift after I finish my blood if you would like. Eloise will have to deal with me in my form for tonight, though.” 

“I do not mind,” Eloise replied. 

Taking her goblet, Cressida gulped down the last of her blood and wet her lips, catching the small drop that spilt. “Okay.” She rose and pulled Eloise’s chair out, too. She wouldn’t be able to help her in her panther form. As Eloise stood, Cressida flexed. Luckily, vampires did not need to strip when shifting. It was due to their abilities, the way they morphed altered from wolves. Whilst Cressida had wolf in her bloodline, it was greatly overpowered by the amount of vampires in her lineage. 

She felt the smoke gathering around her and smiled at Eloise. “You’re welcome to pet me if you want. No one else, though. I won’t bite in my other form. Not you, at least.” With that, the smoke darkened, and in the blink of an eye, a panther emerged from it. Her humongous black cat body padded towards Eloise, and she sat before her. 

The rest of Eloise’s family looked worried, and Anthony was half out of his seat like he was ready to defend his sister at any moment. However, Eloise took a breath and held out her hand, tentatively reaching for Cressida’s head. She remained still, not moving a muscle lest one of Eloise’s siblings attack her. She didn’t wish to maul someone in her family on their first day of meeting. Eventually, fingers found her fur and scratched, lightly at first. When Cressida purred and nuzzled in closer, those fingers grew more confident and scratched her in the most blissful way. 

Eloise was the first and only person to touch her in this form without there being a fight. Before, the only contact she had made with others had been when in combat against them, so this, being petted, was new. Normally, she would remove someone’s hand before they could even attempt it, but Eloise, she adored the feeling of. 

“We’re going to head to bed,” Eloise stated. “Are Cressida’s things now in my room?” 

“Yes,” Violet said. “They have all been taken up.” 

“Thank you. Goodnight, everyone.” 

A chorus of ‘goodnights’ met her ears, and Cressida padded beside Eloise. 

Chapter Text

Cressida

As they headed to Eloise’s room for the night, she kept on high alert in her panther form, checking each hallway as soon as they turned into it with a keen eye. By the time they made it to the room, Eloise looked awkward as she sat on her bed. “I quite like you like this.” 

Cressida leapt onto the bed and lay down. She would move when Eloise wished to sleep, but for now, she was enjoying her scratches. 

“I’ll get changed now. You’re welcome to use the bathroom to change once you revert back. There is toothpaste in the cabinet." 

After that, Eloise vanished behind the large oak door. She heard running water, and then the light sound of Eloise humming to herself as she showered. By the time she got back, she was dressed in blue silk pyjamas that left Cressida wanting to dig her fangs into that beautiful, unmarked neck and leave her claim.

“Goodnight,” Eloise said, giving her one last head scratch. 

Cressida waited until Eloise’s breathing slowed with sleep to move from the bed. Carefully, she hopped off and padded to the chair. Watching Eloise sleep brought her a sense of comfort, at least it did for a while, until she heard the faintest movement of a handle. Watching it carefully, Cressida dropped down from the chair. 

As soon as the door opened, and a man slipped in, wielding a knife, Cressida was on him. There were enough screams to alert people to the danger. Immediately, Eloise woke to Cressida with the man’s arm stuck between her teeth, and his other arm was injured too. He was bleeding out, and his blood smelled off. 

A hybrid. 

“Fucking shit,” the man spat, screaming again.

Cressida chanced a look at Eloise, blood pouring from her teeth. 

“Do not kill him. Mother will wish to send him for questioning.” 

She snarled, and then a whine left her. A whine so bratty it made Eloise smile. 

“I promise you can kill him later if Mother decides that it is allowed.” 

Huffing, Cressida accepted that. Though when he moved, she ripped his arm off and held it in her mouth like a fleshy little chew toy. She was no ordinary panther. Cressida was a vampiric being in a somewhat panther form. She was huge, strong beyond belief, and now had this new nature that seemed to feed off her proximity to Eloise. 

“Did you need to remove his arm?” 

Cressida nodded, letting the limb flop around in her mouth as she did so. 

By the time guards made it up the hall, it was clear someone had fucked up. They stared at one another, trying to figure out who had slipped up and let someone past. 

“Get my mother. Anthony, too.” 

Minutes passed, and Cressida was quite happily enjoying his screams beneath her. She hadn’t moved an inch and refused to let the guards past the door. 

“Do any of you wish to let me know how someone entered Eloise’s hall that is on constant guard?” Violet bellowed. There was a fear in their eyes that told Cressida the queen did have a harsher side when it was required. That settled her worries slightly. “Cressida, please release him. The guards can drag him down to the dungeon. Do not get his blood on the rugs,” Violet instructed the last words to her staff. Anthony and Daphne stood behind her, their eyes blood red with rage. 

Finally, Cressida moved off him. She refused to relinquish the arm and instead took it to Eloise, who stared at her with her mouth agape. “Cressida, you are not keeping his limb.” 

Another whine left her, and she cocked her head to the side. It tasted quite delicious, and she didn’t wish to part with it. 

“Give him his arm back.” Her words were firmer this time, but still devoid of any real seriousness. Cressida moved back across the room and spat it down by the guard’s feet. A disgruntled noise left her, and she looked back at Eloise, who, oddly, was smiling after her murder attempt. “I was quite enjoying my sleep, and Cressida can protect me. If we could revisit this in the morning,” Eloise said. 

Daphne and Anthony looked at one another. “Do you wish for us to stand guard?” 

“No. Cressida’s got it covered.” 

Daphne looked ready to debate it, but Anthony dragged her away by her arm. 

“Have a good night, both of you. Sorry that your first night’s stay here has been eventful,” Violet apologised. 

Cressida bowed her head and watched as Violet left. 

“Can you sleep beside me?” Eloise asked. “After that, I would rather not sleep alone.” 

Moving onto the bed, Cressida lay down beside her. She left some room between them, but soon Eloise curled in closer and wrapped her arm around her. There was some anxiousness in her scent, but not much, given someone had just attempted to take her life whilst she was sleeping. 

She didn’t sleep after that- at least not for a good while. Eventually, her eyes drifted shut, two hours before Eloise was due to rise. Any small sound would wake Cressida; her perception was unlike any other vaewolf. So she slept and allowed herself to enjoy the comfort of Eloise’s arm around her furry torso. 

As morning came, Cressida woke to the sound of footsteps in the hall. Her head lifted a fraction, but she calmed as they retreated. After that, she heard a muffled conversation not to wake the princess, given last night’s events. Cressida would agree with them; it was best to let Eloise sleep. But as she looked down, Cressida realised she was in Eloise’s bed. Her arm was wrapped around Eloise’s midsection, and Eloise was very much awake. Staring right at her.

“Good morning,” Cressida said cooly, pulling her arm back. She hated doing so, and the moment she took it away, she wished to place it back. “Apologies for that. I guess I am more tactile in my sleep than I realised.” 

“Morning. We will need to speak with my mother this morning, but after that, I thought it might be best to head to the combat building so that you can… blow off some steam.” 

“What makes you think I have steam to blow off?” Cressida asked, rising from the bed as she moved to find some fresh clothes to change into. She went with a ruffled neck, black blouse- a mix of masculine and feminine, whilst remaining gothic and timeless - and then paired it with more modern black trousers that were skintight, allowing her to strap on her leather knife holders afterwards to her thighs and shins. 

“Your eyes are red,” Eloise noted with a blush. “Dark red. And our scent…” 

Elation ran through Cressida at hearing Eloise say those words. Our scent. She shivered and knew Eloise saw her eyes growing darker in colour at it because her lips parted, and for a moment, Cressida thought she might move closer and-

“So, I assume you have some alpha emotions you need to work through.” 

“You could say that,” Cressida replied. “Turn around. I would rather not leave you while I dress.” 

“Aren’t we meant to be mated soon?” Eloise asked, teasing. 

“Yes. But I also know you well enough after a day to know that you would grow too embarrassed at a naked woman in your bedroom. I was offering to spare you, not because I have anything that I wish to hide. Should you wish to ogle my breasts, you’re more than welcome, Your Highness.” That did it. Colour flooded Eloise’s cheeks, and she quickly looked away. Once Cressida was dressed, she cleared her throat. “I’m decent.” 

When Eloise’s eyes returned to her, they trailed over the newly exposed skin of her neck and chest. They lingered on the swell of her breasts, and then moved lower to the leather knife harnesses on her legs. “I like how you dress.” 

“Most people prefer me with my clothes off,” Cressida joked. “You should dress. I’ll face the wall to protect your modesty.” 

“Are you always this irritating?” Eloise asked. 

“Yes. But your dropped fangs tell me that you enjoy that about me a bit too much.” Perhaps she shouldn’t have called out Eloise’s somewhat vampiric boner. However, the way red flooded her cheeks made it worth it. She finally turned and heard Eloise grumbling under her breath. “So, do I get to maul that man today?” 

“You could sound a little less excited about murder,” Eloise replied. 

“He wished to harm you,” Cressida said plainly. “He should see it as a blessing that you allowed him to live a short while longer. Also, I’m famished. Shifting always drains me.” 

“Well, your meal will have to wait. Questioning often takes weeks.” 

She sighed and twirled a knife in her fingers. It was one of her favourites; her father gave this one to her on her twenty-first birthday. It had a panther on the hilt and floral patterns engraved on the top side of the blade. “That seems excessive. What a waste to let a meal age like that.” 

“Are you serious?” 

“He wished to kill you,” Cressida said. 

“I’m dressed.” 

She turned to face Eloise in jeans and a white shirt. God, she looked divine. 

“Who’s the one with the dropped fangs now?” Eloise teased. 

“Unlike you, I am not embarrassed about my attraction to you.” 

“No?” Eloise asked, raising a brow. “I would say that you’re rather reserved. Timid, almost, for an alpha.” There was an edge to the princess that showed at times, that oh-so-Bridgerton sass. If anything, Cressida loved it, and she would enjoy every second trying to break Eloise. Omegas often tested alphas for fun because they were attracted to their cockiness and bravado. But Eloise was playing a dangerous game. 

Like now, for instance, Cressida walked closer and rested her lips against the princess’s ear. She would not have Eloise calling her timid again. “No. In fact, I am quite confident in telling you that if you ever asked for it, I would have you unravelling at the seams with my touch. I would whisper things to you that would leave your wolf hungry for more, until finally you grew too sensitive to come again.” She let her fingers trail down the side of her cheek, and her chest tightened when Eloise whimpered at the touch in the most divine, submissive way. “But you do not want that,” Cressida said, stepping back. She placed her other knives in the straps and tossed her hair over her shoulder. “Do you?” 

Blood red eyes and their overly sweet scent gave Eloise away. Never had Cressida smelled an omega’s want that strong; it was utterly indecent. She breathed it in, smiling when Eloise squeezed her thighs together. “No,” Eloise rasped. “I do not.” 

“A shame,” Cressida replied. “But I will always honour your wishes. Whatever makes you happy brings me the most joy as an alpha. Now, do you wish to calm down for a moment before we meet with your mother? Or do you wish to greet her smelling as if I have touched you in ways I most definitely have not?” 

That beautiful pink returned to her face as Eloise nodded. “We should wait a minute.” 

“Or five.” 

Chapter Text

Cressida

Ten minutes later, when their shared scent returned to something smelling less of an omega in heat, they headed to meet Violet. Unsurprisingly, she was already using a stern voice with the guards- less than amused by their colossal fuck up. 

Finally, Violet dismissed them and turned her attention to her daughter. “Are you okay? That must have been a considerable fright.” 

“By the time I awoke, Cressida had him screaming,” Eloise stated. “I didn’t really have time to panic until after the event. I knew Cressida would keep me safe, though, so I slept fine.” 

“You slept?” 

“Like a baby,” Eloise replied casually. 

“I thought you were struggling with your sleep?” 

“She slept all night,” Cressida informed her. “I probably exhausted her with my sarcasm.” 

“I think you exhausted me trying to keep an arm as a souvenir.” 

“Speaking of which,” Cressida said. “When can I murder him?” 

Violet couldn’t help but choke out a laugh at that. “We are questioning him. That takes time. And usually kills are left to mates or our central guard. You are neither.” 

Her eyes flashed darker with annoyance. 

“But I suppose I could allow it when the time comes to dispose of him,” Violet said, dragging her words out as she looked between them. Her eyes found Eloise’s neck, looking for something she would not find. “You should speak with our healers about your scent changes. And the… mate-like tendencies you both seem to be experiencing.” Eloise scoffed at that. “Would you rather I find Cressida someone else to marry?” Violet asked. When Eloise’s eyes changed and her fangs dropped, she chuckled. “As I was saying, mate-like tendencies.” 

“We shall go later. I promised Cressida time at the combat grounds first.” 

“Yes, best to give alphas their time to work their energy out. I still frequent there when I grow irritated.” Violet drummed her fingers on the desk. “No one has got much information out of the assassin yet. Other than a marking on his wrist, which signifies he is a Fredrick.” 

She couldn’t help the hiss that came from her. The Fredricks. They were some of the most devious hybrids around, from the initial hybrid line started long ago. Their original creators were a ruthless vampire named Katherine and her partner in crime, a werewolf serial killer named Vlad. He was untouchable, and yet he was killed by his very creation while he slept. Katherine was killed, too, which left people wondering who was feeding intel on the creation of hybrids to others. 

Their entire line had been slightly unhinged. Half vampires with a need to consume blood but with a recklessness that didn’t care for how it was sourced. When they wished to feed, they did. Governments had been trying to monitor them and arrested those they could track. No one knew where they stayed, though. Rumour had it they descended into the sewers come sunrise and emerged when it set. 

The Fredericks had been wanted by most government agencies, and also by the monarchies who wished to hand them in. Saying that, it was hard to track people down when you had no idea where to look.

But this Fredrick would not be passed over to the humans. If placed in danger by another vampire, it was vampiric law that the monarchy with the nearest territory would decide their punishment. Sometimes that was to hand them over, but this man posed too great a risk. Her knew the workings of the estate enough to get past security, and he knew of Cressida and her shifting ability. 

Selective jammers were utilised by all vampiric monarchies in their estates. They jammed non-monarchy numbers and communications, meaning that even their staff had to leave the estate to use theirs. It also meant that the information this man held couldn’t have left the building. Yet. “Let me talk to him,” Cressida said. 

“What makes you think that you can do better than my highly trained interrogators?” They were vampires, and Cressida knew that to be on Violet’s payroll, they must be the best at what they did. 

“My influence,” Cressida stated. “It works on some hybrids.” 

“You promise you will not kill him?” Violet asked. 

“Pinky promise, Your Majesty,” Cressida said with a toothy grin. 

“I can’t say I’ve ever had a royal offer such as a binding agreement. But you may head in. Eloise is to remain here.” 

“But I-”

“Non-negotiable,” Violet said to her daughter. 

“I shan’t be long,” Cressida promised. And then, just to brighten Eloise’s now sour scent, she lifted her finger and poked her nose. 

“Did you just boop my nose?” 

“Yes. All good dogs get a boop,” Cressida returned, smiling. She was likely pushing it, and knew she shouldn’t say such in front of the queen. However, it caused Eloise to smile, which in turn relaxed the queen, who was overly protective of her daughter after the murder attempt. “And I let you scratch me last night. Now we’re even,” Cressida said as she waltzed off to open the door to the room with two-way glass in it. 

As she entered, he uttered, “You fucking slut shifter.” 

Oh, he could smell her. Glorious. She pulled out a chair, turned it around so that her chest was to the back of it as she sat down, and her arms rested on the back. “You look different with two arms. How was that to reattach? Or were you fearing for a future without being able to complete The Macarena?” 

“Slut.” 

“You need to get more creative with your insults,” she said, bored as she drew a knife out and twirled it around. “Last night, you tried to hurt someone dear to me. And here’s the thing, if I had it my way, you would have no limbs, and I would have left you to bleed out on a spit roast like the little pig you are.” She threw the knife and smiled as he squealed. It sailed past him, hitting the wall but catching his ear on the way just enough to draw blood. “Would you like to tell me why you are here? Before I get creative.” 

“I was taught to withstand your worst,” he spat. 

“My worst?” Cressida’s voice changed then to something that held multiple layers to it, each harmonising with the other. “And now? Would you like to tell me now?” 

“Tell you what?” he asked, his eyes now pools of black as he stared back at her. 

“Why were you on the Bridgerton estate?” 

“To kill Princess Eloise,” he stated. 

“Who sent you to do so?” 

“Taryn Fredrick. My cousin. He wants her.” 

“Dead?” Cressida asked. 

He shook his head. “My orders were to claim, not kill.” 

Cressida’s blood boiled at that, and she moved. Her hand wrapped around his throat, and she pinned him to a wall. “Where is he residing?” 

“He moves each day. We communicate through a flyer system. Code.” 

“What is the code?” 

As he rattled off an explanation, Cressida knew that Violet was seething too. “Anything more that is missing? Why does he want a claim on Eloise?” 

“If a Fredrick claims her, we are granted safety of the estate.” 

“Why the fuck would you want safety? Your people are the ones breaking laws to harm others.” 

“It is not the safety we want. It’s the land. With it, we would hold more power in vampire courts.” 

“Anything else you know that might help us?” 

“Nothing.” That was his final word before Cressida tore his head from his body and tossed it to the floor. 

When the door shot open, Eloise scolded her. “You killed him! You were told not to.” 

She feared the queen’s reaction to what she had done as she entered, but all Violet said was, “The healer. Visit them.” 

“She killed him,” Eloise repeated. 

“He tried to claim you. He posed a heinous risk because of that, and Cressida is not acting as a vampire. She’s acting as a mate.” Violet stared at her. “Which begs the question why. It also begs the question why your scents are one, and why you act as you do around one another.” She cast her eyes down to his body. “For what it is worth, if you had not done that, I was mere seconds off doing the same.” 

“For what it’s worth, I apologise for going against my word. When he mentioned that, I simply…” 

“Saw no reason, only death,” Violet replied. “A state of mate rage, I could smell it in your scent. Saying that, you got more information out of him in minutes than my staff has from the hybrids they’ve questioned over many years.” 

Cressida smiled and gently kicked his dismembered head out of the way. “Hopefully something of use.” 

“Head to the healer. And do not leave anything out.” Violet nodded to the door then, a silent command to leave.

As they walked, Eloise said, “You are not my mate. You shouldn’t have killed him.” 

“He wished to force mate you. I refuse to risk a man who thinks that is right being released back out there. If he ever got out, he would come right back for you. You know that.” 

As pissed as Eloise was, Cressida smiled smugly when she found a hand seeking out her own. Eloise appreciated her actions as much as she pretended not to; Cressida could smell it in their now sweet scent, and the queen would have known she did too. “Where are your medics?” 

“This way,” Eloise replied, pulling her up a corridor. As they headed down it, two men approached them. They were guards, but nonetheless, Cressida moved Eloise onto her other side and walked just in front of her. The guards frowned for a moment, surprised, before they nodded at the pair. 

“I do not need you to protect me as if you are my mate,” Eloise stated; however, she kept behind Cressida, and her scent grew sweeter once more. When the corridor was empty, Cressida once again let Eloise take the lead.

They came to a stop outside a door, and Cressida let her nose nuzzle the back of Eloise’s neck. She wasn’t sure what pulled her to do so, but as she apologised, Eloise squeezed her hand tightly and said, “I did not mind.” Either way, it was improper to scent someone you were not mated to or making love to. It was intimate. “Do you do that to all the women you bed?” Eloise teased. 

“I do not scent others,” Cressida replied. “I’m not usually one for proximity with my sex. Anything beyond the usual mechanics.” 

“Oh.” 

“We should head in and get your mother some answers.” 

As they headed in, a man with a monocle sat behind a desk, and Cressida had to hold in her laughter because it was not what she was expecting at all. Unlike the people here, this man was dressed in jet black Victorian clothing, and as he peered up from his vial, his face lit up. “Princess Cressida?” 

“Orion,” she called out, moving closer. He was a short man with a wiry frame, though, when she had seen him last, he had more hair on his head. “I see you lied when you said you were moving to the Scottish mountains.” 

He shifted awkwardly and took her hands. “How you have grown, my child. Last time I saw you… You were trying to steal some of your father’s luxury blood stash from his chamber.” 

“I have no idea what you speak of,” Cressida teased. She moved back to Eloise’s side and took her hand. “What brought you here?” 

“The queen and I met at a meeting for healers that your father sent me to. I always loved working for your monarchy, but Queen Violet…” He smiled. “She offered to pay for my research on the vampiric paralysis my wife passed of that he said would be wasted money. I suppose it was a waste in a way, such is incredibly rare, but I wished to do it for her.” 

“And so you should,” Cressida replied. “If I speak with my father, I know not of your presence here. Not that he would mind now.” 

“New allies,” Orion agreed. “Unexpected, but with the rise of the few hybrids who choose not to follow vampiric law, a joining of courts will offer more protection. I take it you and Princess Eloise are to be wed?” 

“Yes,” Eloise said. “It is why we are here, actually. There is a slight… mystery.” 

“Ooh,” he said, stroking his beard. “I do love those. Take a seat and tell me what issues you have.” 

They moved to sit, and Cressida ran her tongue over her fang nervously. “I was questioning someone earlier, and when they made a threat towards Eloise, I felt unpredictable. As if I moved of my wolf’s accord, without control.” 

“The two of you are not yet mated?” he asked. 

“No,” Eloise replied. “I experience scent changes, too, when Cressida protects me. And other… omega-like issues. My body responds as if we are mated, and I seek her touch out constantly.” 

“I have a similar issue. My body and emotions act as if we are mated. But it is more than that. We have no-”

“Individual scent,” he realised, his eyes widening. “I can’t say I have heard of that happening before.” Moving to the side, he grabbed an aged leather book and blew a thick sheet of dust off it before returning. “I shall read up. See if I can find similar accounts. I might ask the wolves to use their records, speak with them in case they commonly find that.” 

“And the fact that I treat Eloise like my mate?” 

“I would not fight it. Although you have not mated, it is as if you have some kind of tether there and ignoring tethers tends to lead to sickness. Are there any issues that are making you uncomfortable?” 

“No,” Cressida replied. “I enjoy protecting her.” 

“And you, Eloise?” 

“I enjoy her protection,” Eloise replied. 

“Good. Then, for now, act as if you are mated. Listen to the tether, and let it guide you.” 
 

Chapter Text

Eloise

Let it guide them. Shit. Eloise had been hoping for answers as to why she felt so odd around Cressida. It was growing embarrassing, and her siblings took note as Cressida fed Eloise at the table. Such was normal for pregnant and in heat vaewolves who were mated, but Eloise was neither. 

Regardless, Eloise swallowed as her mate lifted the goblet to her lips and tried not to swear when a long thumb caught what dripped down her mouth. 

They had reported his suggestions to Violet, who agreed, although she stated it was best if they took things slowly today in case the issue was more unpredictable than they realised. As such, Cressida skipped her combat and spent the entire day in the library with Eloise. 

It was strangely attractive watching Cressida taking notes on her book about 17th-century vampire politics. The sight had left Eloise with emotions that she had never felt until meeting Cressida. The first time had been the night prior, when Eloise stared at her panther form with an arm in her mouth. Eloise longed for her to shift back so that she could kiss every inch of her. 

So, yes, she was worried her siblings were taking too much note of how she reacted to her. If her scent didn’t give away her longing, her long looks riddled with comfort and adoration likely did. And if they knew, she worried they would-

“You two smell happily mated over there,” Colin teased. 

“Colin,” Violet warned. 

Everyone here was aware of their issue. They were not mates, but something was making them react as if they were. Which meant Benedict only smiled broadly now as he added, “Beat my brother in combat twice and basically mated Eloise the same day. Rather excessive, don’t you think?” 

“I rarely do anything half-assed,” Cressida said. “Now stop teasing her.” 

“Or?” Daphne asked. 

“Or we can all have some training sessions tomorrow. I was nice in letting Anthony merely limp away.” 

“Threats?” Daphne teased, sipping her blood. 

“We may not be mated, but I am still defensive of El.” She raised a brow. “Would you let me tease Simon without a retort?” 

Laughter left Daphne. “I shall allow it. Where were you both today anyway?” 

“The library,” Eloise said. As Cressida lifted her goblet to her lips, Eloise watched entranced as her throat bobbed with each gulp. When laughter sounded, she was too busy staring to note it. Her skin was so flawless, like a pearl, and Eloise longed to touch it. She wondered if Cressida’s scent would linger on her lips as she kissed her- if she would taste the woodiness that Cressida contributed to it more from the source. 

“Eloise,” Violet said. 

Finally, Eloise snapped out of it. “Yes?” 

“Would you like to retire to your room?” Her mother looked amused, and her focus darted between her and the vampire that Eloise had just been ogling. 

She blushed when she saw all her siblings holding back laughter. Maybe her staring had been too obvious. It occurred to her it had when Cressida wiped her lips, and Eloise realised her fangs had dropped. 

“Our scent,” Cressida said as she leaned in, keeping her voice low. 

And yes, Eloise had made their scent unbearably sweet, clearly not hiding things as well as she thought she was. 

But with that want came another truth: Eloise did not know Cressida. Because of that, Eloise tried to control her wants. She could not let them spill over into improper decisions like sleeping with someone she was not mated to. It was bad for her family’s image, and it would feel degrading if she gave herself up to someone who would leave her after. 

“Yes, Mother,” Eloise replied. She rose and fell into step beside Cressida. Now, she said nothing whenever Cressida stepped between her and the staff, trusting the buffer she offered. At first, it had irked her, the protection as if she were her mate, but now Eloise hated the idea of Cressida not being at her side. 

As they stepped inside the bedroom, Cressida held the door for her and shut it behind them. She watched as Cressida moved across the room, finding her bags.

“You could put those away,” Eloise stated. “You have drawers and a wardrobe on your side.” 

“I did not wish to wake you last night, but I shall do so while you ready yourself for bed,” Cressida replied. 

“Few people go toe to toe with my sister.” It was something Eloise had thought about ever since the words left Cressida’s lips. Other than her siblings and mother, she had never seen someone taking Daphne on like that. Even in a teasing tone.

“Someone should have sooner,” Cressida replied. “Did I upset you?” 

“No, not at all. It merely caught me by surprise. Tomorrow, if you would like, we can head to the combat grounds for a couple of hours.” 

She noticed the way Cressida stood taller at that. “Thank you.” With a bow of her head, she began hanging things in her wardrobe. Eloise found it odd how old-fashioned in many ways Cressida’s people were with their shirts, and how they paired them with skintight modern jeans. Her people dressed far more like humans, whilst Cressida’s people had more of a gothic look that humans loved to see from vampires. It tended to help them identify them, which left them feeling safer in their company. But the way Cressida dressed left Eloise’s fangs aching. It was sleek and gothic, but her leather weapon holders were what did it for her the most. Those were ungodly against her thighs in the most enchanting way.

Thinking back to the banquets Cressida’s people held for humans, Eloise wondered what that was like and if her people could bridge the divide further. There had been many issues historically that they were slowly moving past, and she knew humans adored food at all their gatherings. 

Once she was dressed, Cressida headed into the bathroom. Twenty minutes later, she emerged, her hair wet against the band shirt she slept in, and Eloise felt something. A tug as Cressida moved to sit in the chair. When Eloise remained sitting up and watching her, Cressida smiled teasingly. Surely, she could feel it too? Both mates felt proximity draws, which meant that Cressida wanted Eloise to ask. Knowing that Cressida was playing a game to watch her squirm only made the tug stronger. 

Raising a brow, Eloise sat back against her headboard and reached for her book on the side. If Cressida wanted to play that game, fine. She would soon see just what Bridgertons were made of. 

The tug grew, and Eloise began turning the pages simply for effect. She couldn’t focus on the words, not when she felt the yanking sensation just below her navel. As she held off, she chanced a glance at Cressida, who was still smiling smugly at her across the room. 

Shooting a grin right back at her, Eloise turned the page. She gritted her teeth, feeling the sensation growing to something of discomfort. 

“Alright over there?” Cressida asked teasingly. 

“Perfect. Why? Are you not enjoying your chair?” 

“It’s wonderfully comfortable, actually.” 

Shit. Eloise turned the page again and worried her lip as the sensation began to tighten and twist. 

Shockingly, the bed dipped beside her then. Cressida took the book from Eloise and rested it down beside her, putting the bookmark in several pages before- knowing she hadn’t been reading at all. An arm pushed behind her back and then guided Eloise to lie against her chest. “You’re incredibly stubborn.” 

As Cressida’s raspy voice met her ear, Eloise leaned in closer and got comfortable. “Yes, well, a trait of a princess, I suppose. One you have also.” 

With a snort, Cressida pulled the sheets over them. “Goodnight, El.” 

“Goodnight.” 

That night, there were thankfully no sudden murder attempts. Eloise ended up waking late when a staff member banged on her door. “I am rising,” she called, snuggling closer to Cressida once she heard their footsteps retreating. 

“It’s a shame I had no snack last night,” Cressida joked. 

“I hope you don’t make it a habit of gnawing on limbs often.” Even if Eloise was attracted to the sight of Cressida doing exactly that. 

“Only when I’m in the mood for it,” she returned. “Is it still okay if we head to the combat grounds first thing?” 

“Of course,” Eloise replied. She regretted that decision roughly fifteen minutes later when Cressida stood there in gym shorts and a sports bra. Reaching for her book, Eloise could feel her heart thudding in her chest as Cressida took her hand. 

“So, what are you reading at the moment?” 

“You’re interested?” Eloise’s brief excitement flew out the window when she remembered what she was reading. Two years ago, Daphne jokingly got her a spicy vaewolf romance for her birthday. Eloise left it on the shelf and forgot about it until Cressida arrived.  

“Uh, it’s… So-” She swallowed. “A romance.” Yes, safe, unassuming. Could be anything. 

“Interesting. What type?” 

“Vaewolf,” Eloise said, her voice climbing in pitch as they walked through the halls. 

All was well until they made it outside, where Daphne was coming back from combat training with Simon at her side. 

“Good morning,” Cressida said brightly. 

Daphne peered at their linked hands, but then her gaze drifted to an all too familiar book in Eloise’s hands. Her doom was brought about by the easily recognisable sprayed edges. “Is that the erotica I bought you years ago that you refused to read?” 

“Daphne,” Simon warned. “Staff are around.” 

“Well, they can know about my sister’s newfound smutty reading habits then.” 

Cressida leaned in closer and took the book from her. She lifted it up between them and said, “I actually grabbed that from her shelf this morning, it’s for the library after we’re done here. The edges caught my attention; such a beautiful binding.” 

“That makes sense,” Daphne replied. “Eloise said that she would never read anything spicy. I always tell her she’s missing out.” 

With a shrug, Cressida said, “Many people don’t; personal taste is such a beautiful thing. I, however, love them.” She tugged Eloise’s hand then. “Apologies, I must drag your sister away. I haven’t worked out in days.” 

“You must feel on edge,” Daphne said. “Spend a good amount of time in there today, Eloise. Your mate will need it.” 

“Not my mate,” Eloise called, but her words met Daphne’s back. Relief flooded her system, but it left her with questions. “Why did you do that?” 

“I could smell your discomfort, and no one leaves my mate who is not my mate feeling like that. Your sister was trying to embarrass you, and only I get to be responsible for colour on your cheeks like that.” 

“I’m guessing you’re not actually a fan of spicy romances?” 

“No,” Cressida replied. “As I stated, I prefer non-fiction. If I do read fiction, it tends to be high fantasy with political or monarchy themes. I’m a big Samantha Shannon fan.”

“I enjoy Shannon’s works,” Eloise replied. “They are all in the library, should you ever wish to read them. Two of the shelves in there are filled to the brim with sapphic literature.” 

“I shall take a peek,” Cressida replied, handing Eloise her book back. “Right, I’m off to train. I will remain close. Enjoy your fictional vampire shagging.” 

“Cressida!” Eloise whispered harshly. 

“Let me know what position they decide on,” Cressida called as she began stretching. 

Feeling the heat in her face, Eloise opened the last page she had been on. 

Cassandra reached for Lily’s hair, gently guiding it from her eyes. “I wish to mate you,” she said, letting her fingertips trace the path her fangs would soon replace. 

“Then why don’t you?” Lily asked. She needed more. Ever since they had met, she needed to know what that draw felt like; the one mated vampires spoke of. The highs they mentioned during sex that let them join in a state so blissful, they never wished to leave their partners.

She crossed her legs and felt the warmth of arousal in her stomach. 

“I will. But first, I want you writhing for me. That way, when I mate you, you will barely feel the pain of it. You will be too lost to the throes of pleasure for me, my sweet.” 

When Eloise heard a punch, she looked up, and fuck was she screwed. Cressida was hitting a bag now, her measurements precise and rapid. Her speed made Anthony’s look bland, and her strength made Eloise wonder just how easily Cressida could kill her. 

If Cressida wanted to, Eloise would be dead. That was the sheer truth of it. Cressida could likely fend off all of Eloise’s siblings and be back on safe turf in no time. Which meant that she was truly safe with her. 

The next strike cut the concrete-centred bag in half. Cressida had barely broken a sweat. 

Returning her focus to her novel, Eloise read on. 

“Then touch me,” Lily begged. It was clear as Cassandra smiled that she had no intention of mating her fast. She wished to draw out the moment, to let it last long enough that Lily cried for her and broke around her fingers in such a way that everyone would hear it. 

She continued to read, devouring another twenty pages of drawn-out touches and teasing. When Eloise heard grunting, she looked up. Cressida was doing squat jumps whilst holding a ridiculous weight like it weighed nothing. As she lowered to a squat, Eloise swore at the definition of her thigh muscles. 

For a while, Eloise forgot about her book. It was only when her eyes drifted to the clock that she realised she had watched Cressida for forty minutes. 

The book. Shit. She wondered if Cressida had noticed; if so, she hadn’t said a word. 

Fingers finally pushed within Lily, and she cried out. Slowly, they ventured into silken depths, coated in her desire as they slipped in and out. Cassandra kept her pace slow enough that Lily wondered if she would ever let her come. A beautiful way to go, a torture this heavenly. “More,” Lily begged. 

“How much more?” 

“The strap,” Lily implored.

“Ah. She wishes for all of my length, how sweet. You think you have earned it already?” 

Eloise felt a pull in her stomach then and clenched her teeth together. She read on, feeling her thoughts drifting to Cressida saying these things. 

Cassandra teased her, letting the length push inside of her. Her hips stopped before Lily was granted what she truly needed. “Please.” 

“Is my omega begging?” Cassandra asked, her fingers plucking at her nipple.

The tug was back, and this time, Eloise whimpered at its strength. Before she could grow embarrassed, she felt someone standing behind her. Hands rested on her shoulders, and Eloise knew who it was, given their shared scent. 

“Good book?” 

“Yes.” She snapped it shut. 

“El?” 

“Mm?” 

“Your scent is driving me mad,” Cressida said. 

Finding one of her hands, Eloise reached for it and drew it to her lips. Cressida’s skin held more of her natural alpha scent. The scent that formed before mingling in the air with Eloise’s was maddening. Spicy. 

Spicy. 

Moving to stand, Eloise turned to face her, and sure enough, Cressida’s eyes were blood red, and her fangs had dropped. She knew what had caused it. Eloise’s scent was so sweet that it was calling to her. 

“We should consider going to the library,” Cressida suggested. “Perhaps you could pick a different book?” Her struggle was obvious. She was trying to suppress her own needs out of respect for Eloise. 

But Eloise needed her just as much. So, she followed the tug of their tether and leaned in to kiss her. Unfamiliar lips were soft against her own, gentle in a way that Eloise both appreciated and hated. They moved across hers, mapping them out as Eloise sighed. Luckily, Cressida soon picked her up and then moved to rest Eloise on the stack of mats behind them. When she stepped between Eloise’s parted thighs, she kissed her with a desperation that shot right to Eloise’s core.

As she kissed her now, Cressida was done with the softness. Instead, she tugged Eloise’s lip between her fangs, drawing blood. As Cressida licked into her mouth and moaned at the taste of Eloise’s blood, she felt her like simmering molasses in her stomach. 

She wrapped her arms around Cressida’s neck and drew her closer as her hands came to rest on Eloise’s hips, Cressida’s grip strong enough that she whimpered as a tongue swiped against her own. 

Oh, that feeling was something. It was a blissful ache between her thighs, one that left embarrassingly desperate sounds tumbling from her lips. She wanted her, needed her, and Eloise was halfway prepared to ask for it here and risk someone walking in on them. 

Cressida, however, slowed the kiss. “Better?” 

Nodding slowly, Eloise waited for her own eyes to return to their normal shade and her fangs to recede. Still, she panted and tried to catch her breath. 

Standing close still, Cressida swept Eloise’s hair over her shoulder and placed several kisses along her neck. Her mouth stopped then, and Eloise let out a whine as fangs brushed against her neck. A tongue soon replaced them, but Eloise couldn’t help but wish Cressida would simply do it. Mark her. Make her hers. They were to be wed, and they already felt the pull of mates. 

When Eloise pouted, Cressida kissed her again. “You are so captivating,” Cressida said, this time letting her nose nuzzle her scent gland. When Eloise moaned, Cressida continued, holding her hips tightly as Eloise tried to grind against anything. “Mesmerising. Beautiful. I do not know how I ended up here, but I am thankful every day that I wake to you.” 

“Cressida-”

“Mine,” Cressida uttered with a firmness to her voice that left Eloise wet between her thighs. 

As she pulled back, Eloise let her fingertips lift and rested them on Cressida’s lips. “Mine,” she echoed in a softer tone, the word pleasing Cressida as if she were her mate. 

“We should slow things down,” Cressida said with a slight hesitation to her words as she pulled back. 

“Oh. I’m sorry if you didn’t want-”

Cressida’s eyes grew red again, and she leaned in, kissing Eloise roughly for long enough to convince her that those words were misplaced. “I want you,” Cressida said, against her lips. She pulled back. “But I want too much, this soon into us knowing one another. Especially as…” She shook her head. 

Because this was very much new for Eloise, other than the one fumble in the hay she had years ago that she hated every second of. “Say it again,” Eloise said. 

Understanding crossed Cressida’s features and she smiled. “Mine.” 

“Yours,” Eloise uttered. 

“Yes?” It was a question with a great deal of meaning. Are you sure? Do you want me? Will you wish to mate and marry me later? 

“Yes.” 

“Okay. Well, pass me your porn in case we see your sister again.” 

“It’s not that!” 

“You can say porn, El.” 

“Shut up.” 
 

Chapter Text

Cressida

As they settled in the library, Cressida could still feel the tingle of Eloise’s lips on her own and smell the delicious sweetness of her scent that lingered on her skin. It made it rather hard to focus on the introduction of blood donor laws in the 1900s, something Cressida normally would have been intrigued by.
 
“You’re staring.” Eloise’s focus didn’t leave her book as the words filled the air between them. 

“I like watching you,” Cressida said matter-of-factly. “Do you dislike that?” 

After a moment of silence, Eloise said, “No. I do not mind it.” 

That was a very Eloise way of saying she enjoyed being watched by her future mate. “Good. In that case, why don’t you come sit on my lap whilst you read? The chair is big enough, and you’re awfully far away.” 

“There is a single coffee table between us,” Eloise pointed out, but she moved, nonetheless. 

It was hesitant at first, the way Eloise summed up how she should sit down before finally moving to do so. But the feeling of Eloise resting against her front left Cressida with a strange warmth in her chest. “Better?” 

“Does this make any sense to you?” Eloise asked. “We are not mated. We barely know one another, and yet…” 

“It feels as if I have known you for years,” Cressida said. “My body responds to you like you are my mate, but it feels innate. It feels like my body recognises you.” 

“Yes,” Eloise said. “That’s exactly the feeling.” She leaned her head against Cressida. 

Time passed like that, hours of Cressida merely holding Eloise as she read. For many, they would quickly grow bored, but something about the sweet scent on Eloise’s skin and the feeling of her body against her own left her captivated. 

She was beautiful, and Cressida let her fingers trace along her arm in soft patterns as Eloise sighed. Luckily, she had chosen another book. Something that would stir less of a response in them both. 

Whilst Cressida was meant to be training, she had become entranced by the sight of Eloise with dark eyes and parted lips as she read. She could hear the rapid beat of her heart, a wolf trait, and then there was her scent that punctuated the air with the heady scent of her arousal. 

Eventually, Eloise put down her book hours later and shifted, moving closer to Cressida. Her nose nuzzled Cressida’s neck, leaving her tensing her jaw as she fought the need for more. She wanted to kiss Eloise, to praise her on her knees. Cressida would devote every part of her life to her, and oddly, it didn’t worry Cressida in the slightest. 

Her breathing slowed as Cressida stroked her hair, and soon she felt the change in her as the vaewolf drifted to sleep. She was exhausted, Cressida could feel it. Her tired state was odd, and made Cressida wonder how long off her heat was. 

When the door opened to the library, Cressida didn’t move an inch. “She’s sleeping.” 

Daphne and Colin stared at their sister with a look of surprise. “I see,” Daphne said. “Well, she looks content. I will try and find the books quietly.” Moving past them, Daphne kept her footsteps light. 

However, Colin remained there, his focus trained on them.  “I have never seen my sister like this with another. She normally resents small touches, even handshakes.” 

“Likely whatever is between us is putting her at ease.” Cressida stroked Eloise’s arm carefully. “I need to speak with Orion further. Especially if Eloise is tired.” 

It went unsaid. If Eloise was this tired and out of it, her heat was on the horizon. And if their bodies were acting as if they were already mated, Eloise could need Cressida to tend to her heat if there was sexual desire there. After their kiss, Cressida was sure there was. The feeling that burned within her as they kissed, she knew Eloise felt it too by the sounds she made. Those delectable moans and soft whimpers. Fuck. 

“It is best if you speak with him then. Any plans to formally mate and wed yet?” Colin asked. 

“No,” Cressida replied. “I am leaving that up to El, and I do not wish to rush her.” 

“Word on the street was that you were always quite the womaniser,” Colin uttered. 

“People change.” Since she set her eyes on Eloise, Cressida had. Something flicked like a switch within her, and now she couldn’t think of anyone but the girl in her arms. “I do not wish for you to believe that your sister means any less to me than she does. I would never betray her. Even if she chooses not to formally mate, I am hers.” 

He nodded. “I have seen how you are with her, and I do not doubt that, but Eloise does not let people close to her like this. I hope you never make her regret it.” 

Cressida’s eyes flashed red then, a protective reaction of an alpha mate that left Colin frowning. “I will do everything I can for her. I would never hurt her. She is mine, and I am hers.” 

“Yours?” Daphne’s voice came from the side of the room. She was balancing several books in her arms now. “I see no mark on her neck. Either of you could be wed to someone else. I hear you’re quite the bachelorette. Mother said she had to offer other courts gifts, so they did not petition for you to wed their royals.” 

Due to their intense conversation, none of them noticed that Eloise had woken up. Her eyes were blood red, too, and there was an anger in them as she lifted her head. “Cressida is mine,” she said firmly.  

“Eloise-” Colin said. 

“We’re leaving,” Eloise stated. “Cress-”

“Of course, my love.” She helped Eloise to stand and took her hand. The force Eloise gripped her hand with as she dragged her out of the room was truly something. “Where are we going?” 

“Our room.” 

Sure enough, Eloise took them right to the familiar door and dragged Cressida inside. “I want you to mate me.” 

“El-”

“I am sure of it. Never have I been surer of anything in my life. If I am to mate and marry someone, I only wish it to be you.” 

“Are you sure that-”

“Mark me.” 

Cressida swallowed thickly. She slowly backed Eloise against the door and leaned in, nuzzling her neck to calm her. “If this is a reaction to what they said, do not worry. I will never leave your side, mate or not.” 

“I have already decided.” 

Letting the breath out that she had been holding, Cressida replied, “That may be, but I wish to be sure that it is not a reaction to what they said from whatever bond we have between us. Mates, when threatened, often re-mark one another. This could very well be that – your wolf anxious of them undermining what we have - and I do not wish for you to regret such an eternally binding action moments after.” 

“Please.” Her voice screamed of desperation, and Cressida knew why because she felt it too. That pull, that defensive need to sink her fangs into unmarred flesh and to show Colin and Daphne that Eloise was hers. 

She pulled back slightly and ran her fingers through Eloise’s hair. “Breathe. It will pass; we just need to give it some time.” 

“Please-”

“El,” she replied, smiling. She leaned in again and ran her nose along her. When her fangs ached, she began kissing her and tried to remember what they taught her in health studies. If an omega in heat demanded a bite, there were ways to do so without mating them. So, Cressida kneeled before her and let her hands find Eloise’s skirt. “Is this okay?” 

When a nod was given, Cressida lifted her skirt, pushing the material up her thighs. Her fangs dropped as soon as the scent hit her. Eloise was deliciously wet for her. For now, she smothered her need to bury her face between her thighs and to taste all that Eloise had to offer. A whimper left Eloise, and when Cressida looked up, her chest was heaving. “Can I bite you?” 

“Yes.” 

Although it was just her thigh, it would hopefully quell their need to mark and be marked. The issue was that bites were still very intimate, and even during unmated sex, vaewolves normally avoided it. However, this was needed before far worse happened. So, she let her fangs find Eloise’s inner thigh, and then she finally pierced her skin. Blood swelled around her fangs as she drank, and Eloise was sweeter than she could have possibly imagined. 

At first, Eloise swore, her brief pain evident. But then that discomfort quickly turned to moans, and her hips rocked as Cressida marked her and fed just enough to quell the pain of it. The issue was that this, this bond they seemed to have, was strong. So, when those moans turned desperate, just as Cressida was about to pull away, she smelled her: Eloise’s arousal now carried the divine scent of her climax. 

Hips shuddered in Cressida’s hold, and she held them firmly against the door, drinking until Eloise stopped moaning. When her cries ceased, Cressida pulled back. She worked her jaw as she noted the soaked cotton of Eloise’s underwear, too close to her face to ignore. 

She felt the pull then. A tug, and oh, did it hurt to fight it. 

“Please,” Eloise pleaded. 

Cressida leaned in closer, resting her face against the wet material. Taking a deep breath, she let the scent of her arousal flood her senses. She moved her face side to side, nuzzling Eloise’s clit through the sodden material. A curse fell from her lips when Eloise bucked her hips, causing the material to press to her mouth. “Fuck.” 

Taking another deep breath, Cressida allowed herself to bathe in that scent, and Eloise to calm in the proximity of her mouth to her cunt, just until that tug began to fade. Moving to stand, Cressida leaned in and took Eloise’s lips against her own, her restrained thinning when a desperate whimper left the shorter vampire. 

“Touch me.” 

“Not today, my love. Come, I will hold you in bed until the rest passes,” Cressida directed. 

As Eloise followed her directions, she ended up wrapping herself around Cressida, and she could now feel the wetness of her underwear against her. Letting her eyes slip shut, Cressida tried to steady her breathing as she focused on running her fingers through Eloise’s hair. “You are close to your heat,” Cressida finally said. 

Eloise peered up at her and let her finger trace Cressida’s still dropped fang. “Any other alpha would have accepted my offer for more.” 

“Any other alpha deserves to be de-fanged for that,” Cressida replied.

With a hum, Eloise shifted to lie as close to Cressida as their bodies would allow. “When my heat hits, I wish for you to tend to it.” 

“You do?” 

“I am quite sure of that,” she replied. 

“But you do not enjoy-”

“Did not,” Eloise emphasised, her cheeks flaming. “I can tell you I quite enjoyed what we did just now, as well as earlier in the combat room. When my heat hits, I know I will want more. I already do. I will need you to soothe it.” 

Their bond reeked of sex as if they had been intimate for hours. It wasn’t sex, but Eloise had come from Cressida’s fangs buried in her thigh. Cressida’s scent overtook their joined one now, the spiciness to it a claim on a romantic mate after bedding them with a bite, and Cressida found she loved Eloise reeking of her claim. 

“We should speak with Orion.” 

“Tomorrow,” Eloise said with a yawn. And with that, Eloise fell asleep once more, the scent of her impending heat settling between them. 
 

Chapter Text

Eloise

When they awoke, Eloise’s impending heat had begun to make itself known in their joint scent. She knew Cressida was struggling, but Eloise couldn’t help but love that. Her scent left Cressida needing of her, her nose constantly brushing across Eloise’s skin as she tried to get more of her scent. Sometimes she felt the drag of Cressida’s dropped fangs, and Eloise took comfort in knowing that she left the princess struggling to find control. 

“Orion,” Eloise said. 

“Ah, I was about to summon you both,” he said, smiling as he lifted a book in the air. 

“You found something?” 

“Yes, I came across something yesterday. The wolves had a book that had an account of this. They were quite interested in who it was needed for, given the rarity of the situation. I did not disclose that to them, but they sent their congratulations.” 

“Account? Congratulations?” Cressida repeated, confused, but then her nose moved to Eloise’s neck, and she breathed deeply as she took in her scent, leaving a shiver passing down Eloise’s spine. 

“Yes. You have a past life tether,” he said. “It is an incredibly rare form of a mating bond, stemming from the original vampires born of shadows. When our people began mixing with wolves, it caused the risk of an incredibly strong mating bond. One caused by two vampires touched with the blessing of shadows at their birth, with one being an original and the other being their bonded. There is only one other account of this. It would explain Cressida’s many powers, too. There have been rumours that shadows of originals bless those vampires born on blood moons.” 

“Past life tether?” Eloise asked.

“The original vampires, whose shadows blessed you both at birth, were together in their lifetime. It is incredibly rare for a vampire to hold the shadow of an original, let alone to meet another with one who was joined to an original all those years ago. The only other known past life tether is a vampire king and his mate who reside in Greece. They notified the wolves of theirs three centuries ago.” 

“So that is why we feel as if we know one another?” Eloise asked.

“Yes,” Orion replied. “You feel like you know one another, because your shadow blessings do. You are acting like mates because you are already mated because of those shadows. In a past life, your shadows were bound by some form of marital ties, and your wolves know that. The shadows linger within your wolf now, who sees the union as a mating.” 

“We are mated?” Cressida asked. 

“Yes. However, your wolves will find issues because you do not wear one another’s marks. They will struggle to see it, a mate without a mark, and so that part of you will only grow more uneasy until you mark one another.” 

“Is it best if I bite her soon?” Cressida asked. 

“Yes. It could make you both sick to ignore it. Or, with the couple in Greece, it got bad enough that he killed someone for threatening to marry his mate.”

“Eloise is close to her heat,” Cressida said. 

“Then she will most likely call to you to ease it if there is romantic attraction there,” Orion stated. “And from the accounts, past life tethers cause stronger symptoms with both heats and ruts. You will have to monitor one another closely, and they tend to last longer. Then there are the issues with mate symptoms. Those are stronger in past life tethered pairs, too.” 

“Have you informed Mother?” Eloise asked. 

“Yes. She was speaking to Cressida’s father about it this morning, so his health team are alerted if you ever head there on a visit. I will share the accounts with them and ensure they have a copy for reference. It would also explain why you are so strong, Cressida. You possess the shadow of an original, were born on a blood moon, and are an alpha. It's quite the trifecta. The queen seemed very pleased to have the chosen of an original protecting her daughter.” 

He continued on for several more minutes with information, but eventually, they left. 

“I did not expect that,” Cressida said as they walked down the halls. 

“Neither did I, however, it makes a great deal of sense. Why you feel so familiar to me. Known.” 

When they made it to the dining hall, Cressida sat and lifted a goblet to Eloise’s lips. No one commented on it this time and instead sat there silently as Cressida treated Eloise as her mate. 

By the time she put it down, Eloise noted her mother among those staring. She looked proud and happy to see her daughter so content. But she looked proud of Cressida, too, and confident in her daughter’s safety by her side. 

It wasn’t until someone else sat down that things grew tense. 

A woman took a seat beside Daphne, and Eloise resisted the urge to swear. The issue was that Daphne and Simon held a poly bond. They, unlike most, could have sex outside of their bond without issue. But royals were expected to be seen with people of their calibre, and as such, Daphne and Simon were both partial to fooling around with the very attractive, unmated princess from Finland. 

“Kira,” Eloise said. “I did not realise you were staying here.” 

“Thought I would stay for a while and enjoy the city,” she replied. Her eyes trailed over Eloise, and she felt Cressida’s hand tightening where it rested on her thigh. “And it’s many sights. You’re looking delightful.” 

The other issue with Kira was that she was quite the renowned flirt. Usually, such was fine; she never dared to flirt with mates unless they held a poly bond. However, as she looked at Eloise’s neck, which was free of a mark, she made the wrong assumption. 

“Comment on my mate again, and I will see it fit to rip your throat out.” 

Everyone’s eyes turned to Cressida, and Eloise felt a strong tug below her navel as a peppery scent filled the air. Protection. But there was something more to it, and soon the slight hint of more followed. 

Cressida smelled like impending rut. 

Her eyes glowed deep scarlet, and she looked ready to commit murder. Whilst it should have concerned Eloise, murdering a princess - especially one Daphne was fond of – was not good for their image. Instead, Eloise smiled and leaned to rest her cheek against her shoulder. “Calm,” Eloise said. 

“She-”

“I am yours. You know that. Just as you are mine.” 

The words left Cressida relaxing, though she still stared at Kira with a death glare. “I apologise,” Kira said quickly, looking slightly terrified. “I did not realise you held a bond.” 

“One stronger than you will wish to tempt your fate with,” Violet said from the end of the table. “Especially when Cressida is nearing her rut. I spoke with Orion this morning. Eloise and Cressida hold something called a past life tether. Cressida's shadow stems from a blessing from the originals and Eloise's of their partner, and because of the wolf in her ancestry, it has created a recognised mating bond, stronger than any normal one, before they officially mate. There is only one other known account. From what I read, they will be more protective of one another because of it. It will affect other things too, so we should all tread lightly and respect them as a mated pair.” 

Her warning was clear. Kira turned to Daphne and pulled her in for a kiss, relaxing Cressida, who now felt less threatened. “I was merely joking. My type is very much these two.” 

Simon grinned at her. “And you are very much ours.” 

“They hold a poly bond,” Eloise clarified. 

“I gathered that when they all smelled like they had been intimate with one another.” 

“We are not the only ones here who smell like that,” Daphne challenged. “Which is rather intriguing, I must say.” 

“We did not do that,” Cressida replied calmly. “The bond caused issues yesterday, and so I bit Eloise elsewhere to ease its demands without risking something she might not have wanted.” 

But Eloise knew it was more than that. Whilst she was thankful Cressida was protecting her modesty, all Eloise could think of now was coming as she bit her. It was usual for vampires to get aroused by a bite, or to come with one as part of sexual play, but this was only a short bite, and there was no intimate touch with it. Yet, Eloise had never felt pleasure like it. And after, as Cressida pressed her face to her through her underwear, Eloise couldn’t stop thinking about the heat of her breath against her and the tickle of her nose across her clit as Cressida scented her climax on her. 

Another tug was felt low in her stomach then, and Eloise grew dizzy with it. Hands reached for her, and Cressida held her as Eloise breathed through it. 

“I think we might be retiring to our room now,” Cressida said. “Could you instruct the staff to bring us blood and leave it outside the door until we reemerge?” Her words carried a clear message. Eloise was nearing her heat, and they would be spending it together. 

“I will ask them shortly,” Daphne replied. “El, do you want company for it?” 

Eloise resented the fact that Daphne was insinuating Cressida would jump to conclusions like that simply because they were mates. “I asked Cressida the other day. She is aware of my wishes and would never overstep like that.” The sooner her fangs were in her neck and her fingers inside of her, the better.

Tilting her head in agreement, Daphne said, “You may wish to leave now. First mated heats are never easy. Ruts either. I will have them bring some bane with your blood for the discomfort.” 

“Thank you,” Cressida said, and Eloise was surprised at the sincerity in her words.