The Commander’s Fate: Vampires of

Blood and Bones Vol. 13 B.A. Stretke

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 Unexpected Lover
Vampires of Blood and Bones Vol. 13

B.A. Stretke

Superiorland Publishing
 Copyright © 2023 B.A. Stretke

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not
intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

ISBN-13: 9781234567890
ISBN-10: 1477123456

Cover design by: Art Painter

Library of Congress Control Number: 2018675309
Printed in the United States of America
 Contents
Title Page
Copyright
CHAPTER ONE
CHAPTER TWO
CHAPTER THREE
CHAPTER FOUR
CHAPTER FIVE
CHAPTER SIX
CHAPTER SEVEN
CHAPTER EIGHT
About The Author
 CHAPTER ONE
The woods were filled with a light mist tonight that trailed along the forest floor in places due
to the warmth of the ground and the coolness of the air, and it gave the area an extra touch of
mysticism. Gage stepped quietly through the moonlit darkness, following the badger he'd tried to
catch on film before and being extra careful not to scare or intimidate. Badgers can be aggressive
creatures if threatened, but Gage was not threatening; all he wanted was the perfect photograph.
He'd been in these woods many times over the past month, photographing whatever caught his
interest, but a few days ago, he sighted a badger and got a few shots but not one that made him happy.
Those creatures were fascinating, photogenic, and unusual, so he hoped to get a picture with the
perfect ambiance. The right photo could help him win or at least place in the wildlife photo
competition at the county fair.
Ever since he could remember, his dream was to make it as a photographer, and this was a
way to get noticed. After graduating last year, he enrolled in a photography class at the community
college and discovered a passion. He'd taken pictures before but needed the proper equipment and
software and the skill to use them. Now his goal was to make it a career, and this competition could
prove to be step one in reaching that goal.
He entered the woods off the main road where he’d parked his car. Gage knew that this
section belonged to the state, and he was allowed to access it, but there was private property that
butted up to the state land, and that's where his problems lay. The badgers he was following tended to
lead him onto the private land. Their den must be in that area. It was risky crossing over once again
since he’d already been caught twice by DuCane’s security people.
They were getting progressively meaner each time they apprehended him, and he really didn't
want to deal with those guys again tonight. But the badger and the perfect mist and moonlight were
making him follow. He just needed to get the right shot, the perfect shot, and then he'd be done with
these woods. He figured the fact that badgers were not commonly photographed around here would
give him an advantage in the competition.
Gage respected the law and wasn't usually a trespasser, but circumstances pushed him to once
again take the risk of being caught. He kept his eye on the badger, and then it happened. The little
beast paused, his head held high as if smelling the mist, and the moonlight shrouded his head and
shoulders. It was the perfect shot. He started shooting multiple shots, knowing one of them would be
the winner, when a series of cracking noises erupted, and the badger leapt and was gone in a
heartbeat.
He knew what was happening, and although it was disheartening to have to go through the
rough handling and verbal abuse of the security men, it was worth it for the pictures he had gotten.
Gage stood still and waited as they came at him from all sides. He could see at least five of them, but
with the sounds he was hearing, there were more that were out of sight.
"The property is posted. . . very clearly posted. . . so clearly posted that one would have to
step over the no trespassing signs in order to enter this property." The man was not impressed, and the
look on his face was part irritation and part disgust, not a good combination from where Gage stood.
Gage did not respond to the man's statement, for there was nothing he could say. He'd entered.
. . again. . . without permission, and he had no excuses. Gage had tried to explain himself before
telling them he was just a photographer and that he meant no harm, but it didn't hold water before, so
he knew it wouldn't now. He remained quiet and waited.
"You don't seem to understand that we are not joking. Our privacy and security are paramount,
and your deliberate refusal to follow the law has left us with little choice but to deal with you more
severely." The man nailed him with a stare that had Gage quaking just a little and glancing away.
Whatever was coming, he wasn't going to like it.
The guy shifted his gaze abruptly to the man beside him. "Contact Sheriff Keller." Gage tensed
at the thought of Sheriff Keller coming for him. He'd rather this guy gave him a brutal tongue-lashing
like the last two times. If the Sheriff became involved, Gage's stepdad would be contacted, and the
repercussions would be awful and endless.
"I won't bother you again. I was just taking pictures, and I'll stop; no more pictures in the
woods, no more chasing nocturnal animals. I'm done, I promise." His stepdad could be a tough
bastard; right now, Gage needed him. He provided Gage with a job and a place to live, and he didn't
want to lose that. He would lose everything if he brought the Coven and Sheriff Keller into their lives.
The guy stared at him once again and then took a phone call which seemed odd. "Yes,
Commander Haas." He said, and then it was all listening, and little talking. Whoever was on the other
end gave this man a litany of orders. The guy continued to listen and then ended the call with, "As you
wish, sir." He then closed the call and looked at Gage with what appeared to be a growing sympathy.
"Trenton." He barked the name without taking his eyes from Gage, and a man in the back came
forward. The man had an air about him that was off-putting, and Gage turned his gaze away and took
in the men standing around him. They were company men, all business doing their job except Trenton,
who had a coldness that set him apart from the others.
"Take Mr. Montague to the exterior cells and impress upon him the importance of abiding by
property laws." The way the guy said this was chilling, and Gage found his breath catching in his
throat. Trenton came forward and grabbed him by the upper arm, and began hauling him away. Gage
tried not to resist, but his sense of self-preservation had him pulling back.
"Go with him and do as you are told." The guy told him and then turned his attention to the
other men. "We're finished here." He said, and within seconds they had all disappeared into the night
except Trenton.
Trenton roughly pulled him through the woods to a clearing where a four-wheeler was parked.
He tossed Gage into the back and zip-tied his hands together. Gage had his camera and phone in a
shoulder bag, and he hoped that nothing would happen to his equipment because he could not afford to
replace them. Coming to the woods this night had been a colossal mistake.
There was no talking as they drove through the clearing to a path that led to a manicured lawn
with formal walkways, and the four-wheeler was parked just beyond a grove of fruit trees. Trenton
then jerked him from the back seat. "We will walk the remaining distance." He said his words were
flat and cold, but his actions held a level of anger that was scaring Gage.
They made their way through the trees and foliage to a large block building with very few
windows and a foreboding aura. Trenton punched in a code, and the door opened. He then grabbed
Gage by the scruff of his neck and violently pushed him inside. Gage stumbled but caught his balance
before falling to the hard tile floor.
The tile floor and the various drains positioned around the room were not good signs. Gage
felt his skin tightening and his heart rate escalating. Fear began to choke him, and reactions seemed to
satisfy Trenton for the moment. This guy was bad, really bad.
Trenton cut the strap on his shoulder bag, dropping it hard onto the floor, and Gage scrambled
to protect it but to no avail. Trenton kicked it across the room, and it hit the opposite wall.
 "You have no right to destroy my things," Gage shouted at him but regretted the outburst almost
immediately. The man turned on him with eyes that were now rimmed in red, almost glowing as they
looked him over from head to foot. He then walked over to Gage's bag and stomped on it three times
before opening it and dumping the contents on the tile floor.
Gage watched as his camera, expensive attachments, lenses, and phone were reduced to
nothing but a mass of broken pieces. It was heartbreaking as his dreams and goals were snuffed out in
seconds. Then Trenton turned on him, walking over very deliberately, holding him in the grip of his
cold stare, and backhanding him across the side of his face.
Gage fell to the floor, this time feeling the blood run down his chin from the split in his lip.
His face was numb from the strike, and he knew there was much more and much worse to come.
…
Deacon Haas, Commander of the North quadrant Security Forces of Coven DuCane, sat at his
desk awash with conflicting feelings regarding his recent order concerning an incessant trespasser.
The man was an irritant and refused to heed properly and lawfully posted property signs. He was
warned repeatedly, and the fact he kept coming back made it clear he did not understand common
courtesy and direction.
His presence was intolerable, and if it took corporal measures to get him to understand, then
so be it. Trenton was the man for the job. He did it quick, clean, and emotionless.
The physical reminder of his trespassing crime would stay with him, and he would not return
again. It was harsh and brutal considering the interloper was human but necessary; there could not be
such irreverence of the laws of DuCane. Security needed to be tight and efficient, and outsiders
needed to know that breaches would not be tolerated.
Deacon walked over to the tray by the window and poured himself a glass of whiskey. It all
made sense when he explained it to himself, but still, he felt like a rank bastard for ordering the young
man punished in such a manner. He could sense the derision in Lieutenant McKay's tone when he
called him and put down the order for punishment. McKay didn't agree with him, but he didn't voice
his opinion. He was a good and solid soldier and would do as he was told.
The young man would be dealt with and returned home. He was warned twice not to return, so
whatever happened this night, he earned. Deacon put the matter from his mind, satisfied that it had to
be done for the sake of security. Sometimes you had to be firm, and this was one of those times.
Deacon went back to his desk and put in a call to Lieutenant McKay to meet him in his office
after his shift. He wanted a briefing on the incident and also information on the young man, Gage
Montague. Was this isolated, or was this young man working with others gauging our tolerance and
pushing the envelope of our security. The Coven had been infiltrated in the past, and their enemies
still existed. They could not let their guard down, not even for a hapless human.
…
Gage was hurting. Every molecule of his body was screaming after the beating that man,
Trenton, had delivered. He had not anticipated such a brutal reaction. Before, when he was detained,
they were obviously unhappy and made that quite clear, but they never physically hurt him. He
assumed that calling the Sheriff was the worst thing that could happen to him, but that was before he
was introduced to Trenton, a name and a man he would not soon forget.
He was driven back to town and dumped in the alley behind the bar, just left there bleeding on
the cold, hard ground. The car barely slowed down before the guy pushed Gage from the back seat
with his foot. He landed hard and rolled in the dirt, and although it hurt, he was thanking god that he
was finally away from that maniac. The light at the back door was on, but there was no one around.
 The bar was closed, and his stepdad was probably in his office going over receipts. He
pulled himself up enough to make his way up the incline from the alley to the bar's back door. It was
exhausting, but he needed to get out of the night flow of traffic that used the alley. He didn't want to
end up as lunch for some rogue shifter or vampire.
He tried to lift his hand to feel his face but was pretty sure his left arm was broken or
dislocated because it wasn't moving, and pain radiated to his shoulder every time he tried. His face
was a mess. He knew that without having to look since Trenton took great care in focusing much of his
abuse on Gage's face. He just hoped that none of the local lowlifes found him before he was able to
get to his feet and get inside.
The sound of the back door opening had his heart pounding in hopes of being found and helped
inside. "What the hell happened to you?" It was Able, and Gage was so glad to see him.
"I was jumped." He said, and it wasn't a total lie.
"Out here? By whom?" He asked, but Gage was in no condition to answer questions.
“I don’t know who, but they worked me over good.”
"They sure did, come on, let me help you inside, and I'll see what I can do for you. I'm
assuming you don't want to go to the ER." Able cocked an eyebrow at him, and Gage shook his head.
"Just as well; we don't want them contacting the cops and getting them in our business."
Able got him up, and half carried him inside to the break room that had an old, down,
threadbare sofa in the corner. It was the most uncomfortable piece of furniture on earth, but right now,
it looked like pure perfection, and all Gage wanted was to lie down and rest. Able got him to the sofa
and then left to get the first aid kit from his office.
When Able returned, he had the kit along with a washcloth, hand towel, and a basin of water.
"They really gave you a beating. How many were there?"
"I hate to say it, but this was done by just one guy, but in my defense, I think he was
paranormal." Gage knew for a fact he was paranormal. The guy was a vampire soldier but had to play
it carefully with Able. If he knew Gage was sneaking onto DuCane's property and getting caught, he
would be pissed. Able firmly believed in not drawing attention to one’s self, and that was how he
raised Gage from the age of five.
Gage's mother married Able Colbert after Gage's father died in Afghanistan. He was a soldier
in the Army and was killed when the transport he was on rolled over an IED. Able was a wolf shifter,
and Gage's mother wasn't his true mate, but they married anyway, and Able took on the
responsibilities of a wife and child.
Unfortunately, she never got over the loss of her husband, and when Gage was twelve, she left
to supposedly find herself and never returned. Gage stayed with Able, who, although strict in some
odd ways, was also a decent guardian.
The Zen bar had been his home since he was five years old, and at sixteen, Able let him start
working part-time, first in the kitchen and then in the stock room. Now, at nineteen, he filled in
wherever he was needed. It was considered a seedy bar with a sketchy clientele, but it had provided
security when he had none, and it was home.
“What sort of paranormal?” Able was asking too many questions.
"Not sure, but he was well dressed." Gage knew he would draw the logical conclusion.
“One of DuCane’s people?” Able was surprised. “That doesn’t sound like the actions of one
of his people.”
"I don't know." That was an outright lie, but he didn't want to tell him the truth. Gage was
shocked from his thoughts with a painful gasp when Able abruptly pulled his arm, putting his shoulder
back into place.
"You won't see out of your left eye for a few days; the swelling is too severe. If you think you
can take the pain, I'll stitch your lip for you. It's a deep gash and will most likely scar otherwise."
Able was already sterilizing and threading the needle while he asked for permission.
"Yeah, go ahead. I don't want some gnarly scar on my face." Able stitched it up quickly, and
Gage thought he might pass out from the pain, but he didn't.
"You didn't lose any teeth and no broken bones, so that's good, but you're black and blue from
head to toe, and your face is a fucking mess." Able always spoke the truth even when it was
uncomfortable to hear. "I'll help you up to your room, and you'll need to stay there for a few days;
otherwise, people will be asking questions, and there's always that busybody in the crowd that wants
to call the cops. You just stay in your room until your face starts to look better . . . agreed?"
"Sure, staying in my room for a few days sounds like a great idea right now." He answered
halfheartedly, and Able laughed.
"You'll be fine." Able helped him off the sofa, and again half carried him up the back stairs to
Gage's apartment on the second floor. Able didn't live on sight. He had an apartment a few blocks
away. He got Gage into bed and then promised to check on him in the morning.
"Thanks for your help, Able." Gage was grateful that he was cleaned up, bandaged, and in
bed; it sure beat lying outside in the cold and dark.
"No problem, kid." He tucked him in and put a glass of water and ibuprofen on the bedside
table next to him. "I'll see you in the morning." With that, he turned out the lights and closed and
locked the door.
Gage lay there feeling better and feeling worse. He was on the mend, but his body ached all
over, and he could no longer consider himself a photographer. His camera and phone and everything
were smashed beyond recognition. Trenton had taken particular pleasure in reducing his belongings to
dust on that tile floor. He had a few shots uploaded to his computer but not the killer shots he got
tonight, the shots that would have given him a possibility of winning that fucking contest.
Trenton had destroyed a couple thousand dollars worth of equipment, and Gage had no way of
replacing it, not now or for a very long time. It wasn't a top-of-the-line camera, but it was a damned
good one, and it had taken him almost a year of saving to afford it used. The phone was not very old;
he'd bought it new this year on a payment plan which he would still have to pay for another six months
even though he no longer had the phone.
Gage wondered about his car as it hit him that it was still parked on the side of the road near
state forest land. If it got impounded, Able would find out the truth of this night and his involvement
with the DuCane Coven. His only option was to call the only friend he had. Friends were difficult for
Gage. Having grown up in the Zen bar community, few parents wanted their kids hanging around with
him.
His friends consisted of Eddie Boone and Joe Banks, two odd fellows much like him. They
were a little older than Gage but had worked together at the Italian Restaurant for a few months and
forged a loose comradery.
He hadn’t had much contact with Eddie since he married that vampire soldier and moved in
with him at the DuCane estate. He totally lost contact with Joe when he hooked up with the
Frenchman and moved overseas. Thankfully he still had a landline in the apartment, and he could
reach it from the bed because there was no way he could muster the energy to get up.
Gage checked the time and decided to give him a call in the morning and take his chances on
Able not finding out. He doubted Eddie's husband would appreciate him getting a call to pick up a car
in the middle of the night, and he didn't want to get on the wrong side of any more vampire guards.
Visions of Trenton flashed in his mind, and he winced, reliving the brutal punches and kicks, all
disturbingly strategic to produce the most pain with the least physical damage.
He closed his eyes and tried to rest, relaxing his body and focusing on how to come up with
the money to buy a new camera. Another job or ask Able for more hours. He would look into it once
he was back on his feet. Sleep came gradually like a heavy warm blanket that blocked out the day’s
events and quieted his mind.
 CHAPTER TWO
Just before dawn, Lieutenant McKay stopped by his office to submit his report regarding the
trespasser. "Sit down." He instructed once McKay had entered the room. Deacon remained seated
behind his desk. He'd spent several hours going over CCTV footage of the Northern quadrant and
contemplating if new security measures were in order.
He caught sight of Trenton leading the young offender away. The guy was much smaller than
he had imagined. Deacon switched off the screen, seeing the young man in Trenton's custody gave him
a sinking feeling. He'd been angry when the call came in, reporting that the trespasser had returned,
and he took his anger out on that young man. It made him feel small in retrospect, but what's done is
done, and the young man was far from innocent in the matter.
He only half listened to Lieutenant McKay as he was already aware of the incident and most
of the details. “Trenton reported that he delivered the offender to his home following punishment.”
McKay finished the report covering all the facts with no opinion of his own.
“What does that mean?” Deacon wanted details as to the offender’s return home.
"For a soldier like Trenton, that means Gage Montague was pushed or tossed from a moving
vehicle into the vicinity of his home. He is most likely recovering on the side of a road somewhere or
in a front yard." McKay did not pull punches on the delivery, and suddenly a shadow of judgment
appeared.
"Don't stop there," Deacon ordered. "You have permission to speak your mind." He sat back
in his chair and readied himself for some truths which he deserved.
"Gage Montague, although irritating, was no threat to us. He was a photographer taking
pictures of badgers, and the badger's den was on coven property." McKay stiffened his back and
looked straight ahead at his commander. "He needed firmer handling than just a talking to, but that
could have been achieved through involving the Sheriff, which is normal procedure. It is my belief
that Gage Montague did not deserve to be handed over to Trenton."
“You don’t like Trenton?” Deacon knew he was being an ass but wasn’t ready to admit his
mistake with Gage Montague. He’d asked for McKay’s opinion, and he got it, unfortunately.
"Trenton is a good and loyal soldier who lives and thrives upon orders and will do anything
without question. He'd pistol whip his own mother if you order him to do it. Trenton will never be a
leader. Trenton is a tool, and it is our responsibility to use him correctly." McKay finished and sat in
a stiff silence as Deacon contemplated his response. He'd been taken to task in a very few and clearly
spoken words, and he was feeling every one of them.
"So noted." He stated, then stood up, and McKay did likewise. "You may go."
“Yes, sir.” McKay turned and was leaving when Deacon made a further comment.
"Contact medical services and follow up with Gage Montague to make sure he made it home."
Deacon knew he had a responsibility to the young man, and his anger was no excuse for losing
prudence in this case. McKay nodded and left the room, closing the door behind him.
Deacon felt the weight of shame coming down upon him but managed to push it aside. He was
doing his job, and although harsh, the punishment was not lethal, and the young man had broken their
laws repeatedly. He wasn't proud of how he handled the situation, but he wasn't going to beat himself
up about it either.
Finally, he gave into the urge and headed out to the blockhouse, also referred to as the exterior
cells, to check the aura and get a feel for what Mr. Montague suffered. He hoped it would put the
matter to rest in his own mind, and he could get on with his work.
It was nearing dawn when he punched in the code, and the door to the blockhouse opened. He
stood outside for a few seconds readying himself to enter, knowing full well that the young man had
suffered at the hands of Trenton Shift.
The room was used for corporal punishment, so the floor was solid smooth tile, and the walls
were concrete blocks. There was a large drain in the center of the room, and the floor sloped very
slightly toward it. A hose hung on the far wall is used for cleaning the area quickly and efficiently.
The room had not yet been cleaned after Trenton had used it. The air reeked of fear and pain,
and the tile showed areas of blood spatter. He moved further into the room and took a deep breath;
something was telling him to stay even as his better sense was urging him to walk away. The young
man would heal, and Deacon would learn to better control his anger in the future.
One step after the other slow and thoughtful, brought him to the right corner of the room. The
floor there was covered in blood spatter, and the emotions emanating from the walls reached out to
him. He took several deep breaths hoping the sensations running through him were wrong, a
misunderstanding, and simply situational effects, but the burning in his mind and the heaviness in his
heart told him what was true. Deacon got down on one knee and touched the dried blood on the floor,
and it called out to him.
He got back to his feet and walked over, grabbed the hose from the wall, and turned it on. In
several sweeping moves, he washed the blood from the floor, where it was concentrated in the right
corner and along the back wall. He had to remove the essence that was torturing him, and washing it
away seemed the only remedy.
When finished, he returned the hose to the wall and walked out of the block house, locking the
door behind him. The sorrow and the pain of that room was tearing him apart, and he needed to get
somewhere private before he lost all control and went after Trenton Shift in a murderous rage.
He couldn't say the words. He couldn't admit it to himself until he reached his quarters on the
second floor east wing. He had no neighbors in the apartments directly to his right and to his left, so
his breakdown would not be overheard. He closed the door and instantly put his fist through the wall
of his foyer and then repeated the action in his living room, punching a hole through the wall by the
couch. His heart was breaking, and his breath was choking him.
The discovery that the young man, Gage Montague, was, in fact, his Fated beloved was
something that hit him like a sledgehammer and left him crushed by the realization that he'd ordered
his beloved beaten to a bloody pulp. His mind refused to process the truth when it hit him at the
blockhouse, but his heart was shattering with the aura of fear, pain, and sadness that permeated that
room. Washing the blood and the tears away did not lessen the agony of his discovery, and he found
himself unsure of how to move forward and if it were even possible.
Deacon pulled his fist from the wall, fell onto the cushioned leather chair next to the couch,
and dropped his head into his hands. Fate had screwed him over to the point that he may never know
the love and attachment of his Fated beloved. After years of watching and waiting for his beloved to
appear and Fate sends him disguised as an enemy.
He had to do something to try and rectify this massive misstep. Deacon leaned back in his
chair and closed his eyes, wondering as to the type of man his beloved was and whether he had a
chance in hell of ever putting this right. A few minutes of misplaced, irritated anger may well end up
coloring the rest of his life. The sun had risen, and the day was beginning, but he felt as if the world
were ending; his world was ending.
 …
Gage put in a call to Eddie at just after eight in the morning. Able would not be in until after
ten since the bar opened at noon, so there was time to have his car returned. Able hadn't mentioned it
last night, not having noticed that his car was not in the lot, but this morning he would see and
question him about it. Eddie was his only hope at this point.
"Hello, Gage; it's so good to hear from you," Eddie answered, always chipper even at eight in
the morning.
"I'm sorry I haven't kept in touch, but you know. . . the palace and DuCane and all, it's really
intimidating." Gage began casually with the intention of getting to the point as quickly as possible.
"I understand; Joe felt the same way until he got his own intimidating boyfriend." Eddie
chuckled. "So, what can I do for you?" Eddie made it easy on him, and Gage loved him for that.
"I had a run-in with DuCane security last night. I was taking pictures and wandered onto
Coven territory." Gage was trying to explain in as few words as possible, not wanting to get into the
details of the nightmare he had endured last night.
“Are you okay?” Eddie was genuinely concerned.
"Yeah, I'm fine, but they dropped me home after, and my car is parked on County Road 48 near
the Maple Ridge turn-off. Able doesn't know about what happened, and he'll be pissed if he finds out.
I was wondering if you'd pick up my car and park it in the lot here before he comes to work at 10. I
left the keys under the seat. I have no way of getting out there apart from hiring a cab, and I can't
afford that." Gage held his breath, and the answer came immediately.
"Of course I will. No problem. I'll leave the car in the lot and let you know when it's there.
Able will never know." Gage thanked him, and they said their goodbyes. Gage lay there for another
ten minutes before struggling to his feet and stumbling into the bathroom to wash up.
He pulled on a pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt and then went back to bed. The exertion
and effort it took to do so little was shocking. He lay there, ready to answer the phone, when Eddie
called. He didn't want Able to inadvertently pick it up downstairs. He sure hoped Eddie returned the
car before Able arrived, not that the man would hurt him, but Able had his rules, and he never bent
those rules.
His two primary rules were never involving the cops in private business and never involving
the Coven in private business, and Able saw all his business as private. The last time he broke one of
these rules was in high school when he inadvertently shared with one of his teachers that Able
sometimes kept the Zen bar open past two-thirty for special customers.
The teacher shared that tidbit with the cops, and Gage found himself sleeping in the broom
closet off the kitchen for a month and with the constant threat of being kicked out. That was a stressful
time of his life, and he had no desire to revisit that period. It was nine-thirty-five when the call came
in, and relief flooded Gage.
"It's in the lot, and the keys are back under the seat." He told him.
"Thank you so much. You saved my life." Gage gushed.
"Not a problem; glad I could help."
“Do you need a ride home?” Gage asked him, but was hoping he didn’t since getting out to his
car would be a sure test of endurance.
“No, Robert followed me in and will drive me home.”
“Thank him for me.”
"I will, and let's try to keep in touch this time. Maybe you could come to dinner this weekend."
Eddie was a good guy, but Gage could not imagine showing his face on coven land again so soon.
 “I think I should stay away from the coven for a while until they forget about my trespassing.”
"Think about it, and I'll check with you again on Friday." Eddie was not going to take no for an
answer.
"Okay, I'll think about it, and thanks again." With that, he closed the call and went back to
sleep. It seemed like just seconds before, someone came barreling into his room, ranting and raving
about stupidity and betrayal.
It took Gage a few seconds to get his one good eye open, and what he saw was Able standing
over him, looking like he wanted to kill him. Fuck, this was going to get a lot worse before it got
better; he could just feel it in his bones.
 CHAPTER THREE
Deacon showered and changed and tried to prepare himself to go see his beloved. It was a
terrible situation, but he had to somehow find a way to make things right. He hadn’t seen Gage or the
extent of the abuse he suffered from Trenton, but Deacon was hopeful that there was still a way
forward for them.
Deacon decided that he needed to discuss this with someone, get the thoughts out of his head,
and get a little advice and guidance. He came up through the ranks with the field operatives. Bastian
was a good friend but not available, and Raul but he and his beloved were on holiday in the
Caribbean.
After taking the post of commander at the Coven proper, Deacon became friends with Robert
and Quincy. Quincy was off with his two hellhound beloveds, but Robert was at the Palace, and
they'd spoken just yesterday.
"Do you have time to meet with me this morning?" He called him, and it sounded like Robert
was in a car.
"Sure, I'll be back at the palace within the hour," Robert responded and then added. "I had an
errand to run with Eddie, so after I drop him off, we can meet. Is it business or personal?" Robert
chuckled.
"How about we meet in the dining hall? I could use a good cup of coffee," Deacon suggested
and then added. “It’s personal.”
"I'm intrigued. See you there around eleven."
“Thank you.” He had a few minutes before he needed to head to the dining hall, so he put in a
call to the medical services to inquire as to whether they had checked on the condition of Gage
Montague.
Just saying the man’s name filled Deacon with a surge of joy and sorrow, a mix that was
playing havoc with his heart. He was over the moon at having found his beloved and crippled with
guilt for the way the young man was treated. He wanted to think it wasn't so bad, but the blood and
pain saturating the block house told a different story.
He walked over to the large window in his living room that looked out on the hedge garden; in
the past, he'd found the designs relaxing to study, and it always brought peace to his mind. But today,
he could not engage with the peacefulness before him. The garden held no balm for his tortured mind.
The block house filled his thoughts, and terrible images plagued him.
"We tried to see him, but his stepfather refused to allow us entry. Gage Montague lives in a
studio apartment on the second floor of the Zen bar, and access to the apartment is through the bar.
There's a stairway off the kitchen. He wouldn't let us anywhere near the kitchen and kept demanding
that we leave." That left him with no more information than he already had, and his irritation was
growing.
He couldn't see or even speak to Trenton because he didn't trust himself not to kill the man.
Everything in him was raging to find him and give him a taste of what he gave Gage. But he did it
under orders, and they were Deacon's orders.
Deacon contacted Bastian, who was working in the field, a situation Master DuCane was
following in California, and asked to have Trenton transferred to his team. He didn't give a lot of
details but made it clear that Trenton was better suited as a field operative. Trenton would be notified
by his superior, Lieutenant McKay, and would be leaving immediately.
It wasn't Trenton's fault; as McKay stated, he was merely a tool, but regardless it was
impossible for Deacon to tolerate his presence. Trenton needed a leader that could make the most of
his talents, and he needed to be away from the Coven.
At ten-forty, he left his quarters and headed for the dining hall. He chose a table off to the side
near the back, which was somewhat secluded. It wasn't long before he saw Robert enter and head
over to his table.
He stood and extended his hand. "Thanks for coming, Robert."
"No problem, Deacon." They got a bite to eat and coffee and settled in, seated across from
one another at the small table. Deacon told him of the incident with Gage Montague and his handling
of it, and Robert listened, nodding his head from time to time but made to comment until Deacon
finished.
"What are you asking me? It sounds like standard procedure he was caught repeatedly
trespassing, and you decided to make an impression. It was severe; I know Trenton and how he rolls,
and personally, I would have assigned it to someone else simply because the offender was human, but
that's my call. You did what you thought was appropriate." Robert was going by the book, and if there
were no extenuating circumstances, Deacon could possibly accept that he was following procedure.
"There's more to the story." Deacon dropped his head for a moment and then raised it to hold
Robert's gaze. "I was angry and irritated about the perceived softness in the Northern border. It is
where infiltrators have penetrated on two separate occasions."
"Those issues were corrected once you took over leadership of the area. There hasn't been
another breach since you became commander of the Northern quadrant." Robert pointed out.
"Until Gage Montague." Deacon clarified. "He wantonly ignored the posted boundaries on
three separate occasions. He was dealt with by Lieutenant McKay the first two times, and he gave
him a blistering verbal dressing down, so the third time, I lost my patience and engaged the services
of Trenton Shift and ordered corporal punishment to be delivered."
"Again, you were well within your rights to order punishment on the third offense and
understandably angry." Robert again pointed out. "I get that you don't like to operate from a place of
anger, but it happens, and there is usually a good reason. I don't see that you did anything wrong. You
have nothing to be concerned about."
“I have since discovered that the trespasser, Gage Montague, is my beloved. The young human
who I had brutally beaten is my Fated life partner.” Deacon got to the crux of the issue. Robert set his
cup down and just stared at Deacon for a minute or two as if waiting for him to laugh or tell him it
was just a joke.
"Perhaps you should have led with that information. It certainly colors the entire event,"
Robert spoke with care, watching Deacon for clues as to his state of mind, and Deacon understood his
uneasiness, for some vampires could become quite volatile in such a situation. Deacon was on edge,
and his blood was indeed boiling with rage, but he also held enough self-discipline not to act out on
those wholly unconnected to the issue.
"He's hurt, badly hurt, and I don't know how to fix this." He sat back in his seat and looked
over at Robert and waited for something, a word, a plan, anything.
“Does he know it was you who ordered the beating?”
"I don't know, but regardless it is not something that I could or would wish to hide." He said
this, and Robert nodded, his mind clearly working, trying to present a solution.
"Gage and my Eddie are friends; as a matter of fact, he called Eddie this morning and asked
him to get his car from where it was parked on County Road 48 and bring it to the Zen bar parking
lot." Deacon's interest was piqued.
“Did Eddie see him this morning?” He was hoping for a report on his condition, but Robert
shook his head. The fact that he was well enough to call and make arrangements with Eddie gave
Deacon a modicum of relief.
"Gage's stepfather, Able Colbert, is a difficult man set in his ways and paranoid beyond
belief. He's a wolf shifter, but I'm sure you already know that." Deacon nodded that he did, so Robert
continued. "He likes to keep a low profile, no police, and no coven interaction. Gage knew he would
be in trouble if Able found out he'd trespassed and was caught. That's why he asked Eddie to pick up
his car before Able realized it was missing and started asking questions.” Deacon appreciated this bit
of background on his beloved.
“Is Able abusive?”
"Not physically, but he's a hard man in some ways, according to Eddie. I don't know him
personally, just through meeting him at the bar. Gage does his best not to run afoul of the man." Robert
fell silent for a few minutes and then gave his advice on the matter.
"Go to him and figure it out when you get there. He's your beloved, so whatever has happened
can be resolved. Fate does not bring people together and destroy their union on the first day. Trust me,
Deacon, follow this through and go to him."
Deacon nodded, knowing that he wouldn't be able to stay away from his injured beloved for
much longer. The thought of seeing him was both exciting and distressing, but Robert was right. The
sooner he began to try and put things right, the better his chances of being forgiven.
He was hesitating simply because he feared his own reaction when he came face to face with
the consequences of his actions. Gage would be within his rights to deny and disavow their
connection, and that thought was devastating.
"Go to him, Deacon."
“I will.”
"What did you do about Trenton?" Robert questioned, knowing full well that Deacon's
vampire instincts would be screaming for revenge.
"I sent him away. He will be serving with Bastian in California," Deacon stated flatly. "It
wasn't his fault he was following my orders, but still, I feared what I might do to him if we were to
ever come in contact. He's a good soldier, but there is a part of me that would like to see him dead."
“Wise decision.” Robert smiled. “Now, finish up and go win the heart of your beloved.”
Deacon smiled wearily.
“I’ll contact Silas and take a few days off to figure this out. I need to be focused only on
Gage.” He decided.
“Good luck and congratulations on finding your beloved.”
“Thanks.”
…

“Get you worthless ass up and out of bed." Able yelled, and Gage froze for a few seconds
before scrambling as best he could to a sitting position on the edge of his bed. "I want you out of here
in the next ten minutes. Find yourself someplace else to live and someplace else to work because
you're not welcome here anymore."
Gage wasn’t sure if he should ask why or just assume, he found out the truth of last night. He
got to his feet and tried to swallow the pain that rocketed through him with each movement.
 "You're bringing the Coven down on me, and I won't stand for it. You went on coven property
and were stupid enough to get caught." Able grabbed some of Gage's clothing and tossed them at him.
"Get dressed." He yelled. "You deal with them yourself from this moment on. I don't know you." Gage
didn't answer just dropped his head and pulled on his jeans and then his sweatshirt.
Able walked over to the door and then turned back and pointed his finger at Gage. “If you
aren’t out of here in the next ten minutes, I will throw your things out the back window, and you can
pick them up from the alley." He left, and Gage grabbed his duffle bag and a messenger bag and began
filling them with the things that were important to him.
Ten minutes wasn't enough time to pack everything, and Able did not make idle threats. If he
wasn't headed down the back steps in ten minutes, things would start to get really ugly. He never
should have stayed under Able’s control as long as he did. Thinking about it now, he should have
gotten out after he graduated, but the rent was cheap over the bar, and he thought it would give him
time to save for something better.
He would have to use his meager savings to see him through until he could heal and find
another job. Staying in that rundown apartment and following that badger onto coven grounds were
two of his worst decisions. He left his keys on the hook at the back door and headed out to the parking
lot and to his car. Thank god Eddie had gotten it for him; otherwise, he'd be on foot, and in his
condition, he wouldn't have gotten far.
After stowing his things in the backseat, he got behind the wheel and rested for just a few
minutes. The packing and hurrying had really done a number on him, and the pain in his head was
making him dizzy.
He knew he couldn't stay in the parking lot for long Able would send someone to roust him
out. For lack of a better idea, he drove to the strip mall and found a quiet corner of their large parking
lot, and settled in for a few hours. He needed to sleep and recuperate.
…
Deacon contacted Silas Patronne, leader of all security forces in and around the Coven, and
requested a few days off. He kept it simple without too many details letting Silas know that he'd found
his beloved and wanted the time off to pursue him. Silas gave him a week off and wished him well.
"If you need more time or if I can be of any help to you in this matter, let me know." He added.
"Thank you, sir," Deacon responded, and then, like Robert, Silas wished him luck. It was
going to take some luck for Deacon to be able to navigate the twists and upsets of this relationship
that had yet to even begin. He had Gage's address and had worked out a tentative approach to
explaining himself, so it was time to go and claim what was his.
It was his understanding that even humans felt the pull of Fate, so Gage would recognize him
on some level, and he would have to work with that. First, he had to find him and apologize.

The bar was one of the most sordid and sleazy joints on the main and was one of the most
popular with the paranormal citizens of Mt. Pleasant. Deacon didn't frequent the place, but now that
he discovered his beloved had been working there for the past three years, he wished he'd spent every
waking hour at the place. Perhaps he could have prevented the terrible misunderstanding that led to
his beloved's mistreatment, and their bond could have had the time and familiarity to grow.
Unfortunately, Fate decided it would be better if he met his beloved under the worst
circumstances possible. Deacon had no idea as to the level of Gage's injuries or what to expect when
they met. He knew very little about the young man apart from the fact that he worked and resided at
the Zen bar, he liked to trespass on coven property, and surprisingly he was a good friend of Eddie
Boone.
Why hadn't he mentioned his friendship with Eddie to Lieutenant McKay? It may have got him
the entry he so desperately craved, but instead, he took the punishment each time. Gage was
confounding in several regards, and he looked forward to figuring him out.
The minute he stepped inside the bar, the atmosphere changed. It became quiet and watchful.
His presence was suspect, and those closest to the doors left. Deacon walked up to the bar and asked
for Able Colbert. The rough-looking shifter behind the bar looked at Deacon and decided to lie.
"He's not here." Deacon leapt over the bar and grabbed him by the throat, slamming him up
against the wall. The move had not been anticipated, and the shifter was shocked and began choking
and sputtering that Able was in the kitchen.
"Don't ever lie to me." Deacon held his panicked stare and drove home the seriousness of his
threat. The shifter nodded and dropped his gaze. Deacon released him and charged into the kitchen
just as Able was attempting to exit the back door, obviously having heard the commotion out front.
He grabbed Able and threw him across the room. He landed on the floor and scrambled to his
feet. "I don't know what you want. I run a reputable establishment, and you have no right to run
roughshod over us." Able held his hands out in front of him as if to ward him off, but Deacon was in
no mood to play games with this idiot.
"What have you done with Gage Montague?" Deacon barked and took a step toward him as
Able backed up. "I can feel his pain, panic, and sadness radiating through the air, but he is not here."
Deacon's vampire instincts were raging, and he was on the edge of destroying this place and anyone
stupid enough to go near him. Gage's panic was like a piercing knife to his heart, and he was wild
with the need to ease his fears. Whatever happened here left his beloved feeling lost and afraid, and
Deacon was going to find out what happened.
“Where is he?” Deacon shouted in Able’s face, and the shifter stiffened with fear. He didn't
know where Gage was, and he feared for his own life if he didn't give Deacon an answer. Deacon
was exceptionally skilled with mind reading, especially with shifters, and Able was an open book.
“Tell me the truth.” Deacon pressed and took another intimidating step toward him.
"He brought the scrutiny of the Coven down on me, and I threw him out. He packed and left in
his car a little over an hour ago." Able looked appropriately uncomfortable. "I don't know where he
went." He paused for a moment and then blurted. "I can't afford trouble here, not from the coven or the
cops." His business was clearly not as reputable as previously stated.
“Oh, you will have trouble, you will have plenty of trouble if anything happens to Gage.”
Deacon abruptly turned and disappeared through the back door. He stopped as soon as he reached the
side parking area and took a deep breath hoping to catch the scent of his beloved so beautiful and
aromatic.
Deacon got a description and the license number of Gage's vehicle and first checked all the
motels, hotels, and B&Bs and even drove through the state park, but Gage was nowhere to be found.
In his heart, he felt that Gage was still in Mt. Pleasant. His injuries would make it impossible for him
to comfortably travel very far.
As he was taking another run through town, checking lots and parking garages, his phone rang.
It was Robert, so he answered immediately. He'd put in a call earlier to see if Gage had contacted
Eddie again after being kicked out of his home, but Eddie had not heard from him. The search was
putting him on edge. The longer he looked, the more desperate he felt.
“Hello.” He barked when he opened the call.
"His car was spotted at the strip mall on Lexington parked near the laundromat," Robert told
him, and he instantly turned his car around and headed to Lexington. "I gave the description to Sheriff
Keller and his men and asked them to look but not approach. They said he appears to be sleeping."
"Thanks, Robert. I was about to go out of my mind." Deacon was awash with relief.
"Be careful what you say to him, and good luck. Gage can be very skittish on a good day, so
considering the events of the past day, he's going to be extremely agitated." Robert added a warning.
"I will be careful, and thanks again." With that, he closed the call just as he was pulling into
the strip mall parking lot and driving over to the laundromat. It was secluded and a good place to get
some sleep. He understood why Gage would choose it. It had some tree cover and very little foot
traffic.
Gage's dark blue sedan sat about fifty feet to his right Deacon didn't want to spook him by
parking too close. He got out of his vehicle and approached quickly. He couldn't bear to go slow at
this point. As he drew nearer, he saw the dark brown hair pressed against the driver's side window
and marveled at how soft and shiny it appeared. He didn't wake or move when Deacon came to stand
next to his door and stare down into the car.
Gage's hair was partially covering his face, but still, Deacon could see the dark bruising
around his jaw and the stitches in his lip. The swelling was also prominent. The sight hurt his heart,
and he cringed at the brutality that he'd released on his beloved. He stood and just stared at him for a
few seconds before reaching out and tapping lightly on the glass.
Gage jerked and then groaned, having caused himself pain with the movement. His head tilted
to the side, and Deacon got a full view of the damage done, and it sickened him. Gage's right eye was
black and blue and so swollen that he could not open it. The other eye was bloodshot, and his injuries
were many. He was dressed in a sweatshirt and jeans. Gage tried to focus on him, but he appeared to
have trouble seeing him clearly. After a few seconds, he rolled down the window.
 CHAPTER FOUR
Gage came awake with a start when he heard someone knocking on his window. He just
wanted to rest for a few hours, and no one seemed willing to allow him that time always something to
disturb him. He looked out at the man standing there and struggled to get a good look. The sun was at
an angle that cast him in a shadow, and Gage only had one good eye at the moment.
He was tall, and well-dressed, and from what he could make out, he was quite handsome, but
then most vampires were handsome. Gage had been around paranormal beings long enough that he
could recognize most, especially vampires and wolves. This man was important; the cut of his suit
indicated coven leadership, and that realization had Gage's heart surging into his throat. Hadn't this
day been bad enough? Did he have to deal with more coven people?
Reluctantly he slowly rolled down the window and noticed a subtle smile creep into the man's
dark eyes. It made him seem almost human. He thought about the vampires he dealt with last evening,
and a chill shot up his spine. He hesitated before looking up at this man through the open window.
Whatever he wanted, Gage just wanted to get it over with.
"Gage Montague?" He stated or asked Gage wasn't sure, but he answered anyway with a nod.
"Deacon Haas." He announced and held out his hand. Gage was confused but didn't want to insult, so
he took his hand, and the man held it and did not immediately release him. It wasn't a grip, just a
gentle hold, but Gage felt that he could not pull away.
"Mr. Haas, what can I do for you?" Gage pressed, eager to end this contact and get back to
lying still and closing his eyes.
"Call me Deacon." He then let go of Gage's hand and leaned on the open window. Gage felt
the loss of his touch in a deeply personal way that confused him. He didn't know this man, and the
contact should have been impersonal, but it wasn't. There was something in it that went beneath the
surface.
"I'm sorry for what happened to you last night," Deacon stated abruptly and to the point, and
then he took a deep breath as if he was having difficulty saying what he wanted to say. Gage was
surprised that a man that looked like Deacon Haas could ever be uneasy or unsure.
He glanced up at him with his good eye and saw a man who was flawless. His eyes were dark
as the night yet held a strange, unexpected warmth in their depth. His hair was impeccable jet black
and swept back from his face in a short, sophisticated style. He was tall and solid like the coven
soldiers, but he had an air of authority which meant he was not simply a soldier.
"You're hurt. Please let me help you." That offer was so unexpected that Gage could not
respond. He simply stared at Deacon, certain that he'd misunderstood. Deacon opened the door and
squatted down next to Gage once again, taking his hand but just holding it loosely, and the touch was
gentle and comforting.
"It's my fault that you were hurt. Please let me make it right." Gage still was not understanding
exactly what was happening, but he felt a growing trust in his gut that told him this man was genuine.
He didn't believe that Deacon owed him anything. He wasn't there last night. Gage would have
remembered such a stunning-looking man.
"I'm alright I just need a little rest, and then I'm leaving town. I need a fresh start somewhere
bigger and without all the paranormal influences. Somewhere people don't know me, maybe Detroit."
Gage noticed that his speech was being affected by the stitches in his lip and the swelling of his jaw.
He just needed to get out of there, go somewhere new, and rest on the way.
“I have to go.” He said and attempted to grab the handle of his door, but Deacon interfered by
moving to block the door. Why was he being so insistent?
"You're not well enough to drive. You need time to recover and to be treated for your injuries.
Did your stepfather take you to the ER?" Deacon was feeling Gage's head and running his fingertips
along his jaw and across his bottom lip. "Let me help you."
"How, what can you do? Able dressed the wounds and stitched up my lip. I don't need the ER.
I can heal I just need to rest for a while." Gage tried to be firm, but the look on Deacon's face told him
his words were not being heard.
"Come with me." He said and stood, taking Gage's hand and helping him from the car. He
hadn't intended to exit his vehicle, but here he was, being led away by this man with the deep, sexy
voice and commanding power. Gage just went with him feeling the security that he was radiating and
falling into the need to be cared for. It was probably going to turn into one more big mistake, but right
now, it felt good.
…
Deacon was shocked when Gage got out of his car and moved with him toward his SUV. He
thought he'd have to do more convincing to get him out of the car. His beloved was hurt, and in order
to help him, he had to put aside his guilt and rage and focus only on Gage's needs and his best
interests.
He brought him to the passenger side and helped him get seated. "Where are you taking me?"
He asked, his tone soft and slurred like all his speech. The injuries to his face were severe and
interfered with his ability to talk. Deacon ached to place a kiss on the haphazard stitches in his lip and
on the deep bruises around his eye.
"Somewhere safe where you can rest, and your injuries can be properly treated." Deacon left
it at that and closed the door rounding the front of the vehicle, and seated himself behind the wheel.
"I have a few things in the backseat of my car. I don't want to leave them," Gage stated, and
Deacon got them and stowed them in the back of the SUV without question. When he returned to the
driver's seat, Gage reached over with his badly bruised and battered hand and placed it on Deacon's
arm.
"What about my car? They'll tow it if it's left here overnight."
"I'll take care of it. Don't worry."
“Okay.” Gage seemed too tired to continue talking or to worry any further about his car or
where he was going and settled his head back and closed his eyes.
Deacon had to think fast after finding out Gage was sleeping in his car and had plans of
leaving for Detroit. It was doubtful he’d be willing to return to the Coven even the Palace would
cause bad memories considering what he’d been through. Instead, Deacon decided to offer up vague
assurances and convince him to follow.
Deacon owned a log cabin in the woods located east of the interstate about twenty miles from
town. He bought it a few years ago for the solitude and relaxation it afforded, and he liked to fish. He
figured it would be the perfect place for Gage to recover and for them to build their bond. Gage was
much more agreeable than expected, but that would probably not last long once he healed and was
back to himself.
He stopped and picked up supplies at a store along the way, and Gage did not wake, which
was a testament to the trust he was feeling. It was a product of the pull and Fate herself, but still,
Deacon took it as a compliment. Gage did not wake until he turned on the narrow dirt road that led
into the dense woods and to his cabin.
He hadn't been there in a couple of weeks, but he kept it locked up tight and had cameras on
the cabin and around the property. It was his place of peace and tranquility, and he hoped Gage liked
it as much as he did.
"This place of yours is really off the beaten track," Gage commented.
"It's comfortable, and I think you will find it restful."
"I should be concerned, but I don't get a creep vibe from you."
"I'm glad to hear it." Deacon glanced over at him with a smile, and Gage reciprocated. His
smile was so sweet, and Deacon was surprised at the effect it had on him. He wanted more. He
wanted his beloved to be happy, healthy, and healed.
Deacon pulled into the circle drive in front of his log cabin and parked. "This is it cozy yet
roomy and, most of all, private. The coven doctor, Dr. Evens, will be here soon. I called him when
we left town and asked him to meet us here so he can give you a proper examination."
"Able checked me over and said it's just bruises, nothing too serious." Gage offered.
"I want a doctor to look at you." Deacon was firm on that matter, and thankfully Gage did not
fight him.
“Why do you even care?” He asked the question that would lead to all the answers, but
Deacon wasn’t prepared to get into it all here in the SUV.
"I will answer all your questions after we are inside and comfortable." He stated, and Gage
appeared to accept this and carefully eased his sore body out of the SUV. Deacon could see that he
was hurting even if he refused to complain. Rounding the front of the vehicle, he took hold of Gage
and helped him inside, and seated him on the couch.
"Lay back and close your eyes while I get everything inside and put it away." Gage didn't
answer but nodded and closed his eyes. Deacon carried in Gage's things and the groceries and
supplies, all the while keeping a close watch on his beloved. Dr. Evens arrived just as he was
finishing. He noticed Gage begin to stir when the Doctor walked into the room.
"This is Dr. Evens, and he's going to check you over to make sure your injuries aren't more
serious than they appear." Deacon moved to stand behind the couch that was situated to the left of the
large stone fireplace. He put his hands lightly on Gage's shoulders, and it seemed to help calm him.
"You're the coven doctor." It wasn't a question, and the tone spoke to Gage's distrust which
was understandable.
“Yes, I work for Master Louis DuCane, and I assure you that I will do a good job because the
Master accepts no less." The doctor smiled and began the examination getting his vitals and then
looking to Deacon for permission to go further. Deacon nodded, and the doctor-assisted Gage in
removing his sweatshirt.
His wounds were quite extensive. Trenton did a thorough job. Deacon gritted his teeth at the
vision before him wanting to reap retribution but also taking responsibility for he was the one who
had ordered the beating. His guilt would not release him, and he had to find a way to make this right
with his beloved.
Dr. Evens redressed his wounds and replaced the suture in his lip, making a neater job of it
and less likely to scar. Part way through the exam, Gage reached up and took Deacon's hand. He was
seeking comfort, and Deacon channeled everything he could toward his beloved.
The trust he showed in the last few hours touched Deacon like nothing before. His beloved,
although hesitant and fearful, was reaching out to him just as it was meant to be. He was strong and
resilient, two important qualities in life.
 "You're doing great, Gage." He bent his head down next to Gage's and spoke near his ear.
Gage turned to look at him, and the closeness was intoxicating. He wanted so badly to take those lips
in a loving embrace, and when he smiled, Deacon almost lost it. He managed to pull back from
attacking those gorgeous lips and kissed him lightly on the forehead.
The kiss shocked Gage, and he smiled larger. Deacon felt his heart grow and beat wildly at
the glorious sight. “You are so beautiful.” He said the words before thinking and noticed Gage
instantly blush and glance away.
"Certainly not beautiful, but thanks for trying." Gage raised a hand to instinctively cover his
black, swollen eye. Deacon gently pulled it back and placed another kiss just to the side of his injury.
"You're beautiful to me and always will be." This time Gage's expression was confused more
than embarrassed, but he didn't comment. Deacon turned his attention to Dr. Evens but kept his hand
on Gage's shoulder, needing the contact with his beloved more and more as their connection started to
take root.
"Gage has severe bruising on his front torso and face. There are lacerations on his hands and
face which I have treated. No sign of internal injuries or broken bones." Dr. Evens rattled off his
findings. "Given the situation, he will start to heal faster now that he is with you." Deacon raised his
hand to stop him from saying more, given that he had not yet told Gage they were beloveds.
Dr. Evens understood immediately and shifted the conversation to Gage and instructed him in
how to change the bandages, and gave him the ointment for his lip and his eye. "You'll heal, but there
may be some scaring on your lip. We'll have to wait and see. The previous stitches were functional
but somewhat sloppy."
"Able did his best." Gage offered, and Deacon was confused by the support for Able when the
man had quite literally thrown him out to fend for himself at the time; he needed help the most.
“He should have taken you to the hospital.” Dr. Evens stated firmly in a tone that gave away
his attitude toward Able.
"Able doesn't do hospitals or the cops or the Coven. He's afraid they'll interfere with his
business." Gage took Able for who he was and didn't expect any more. Deacon was slowly
discovering that his beloved was a good man.
“Able not your concern any longer. Leave that man behind and begin your life anew.” Deacon
told him.
 CHAPTER FIVE
Gage was at a loss to fathom why Deacon Haas, a man he’d never met before, was coming to
his rescue in such an overprotective manner. The kisses were a complete shock, although they felt
marvelous, and Gage was not ashamed to say he wanted more. Deacon had brought the doctor to
check him over and had taken him to this beautiful cabin in the woods to apparently recover, and
Gage had no explanation for it.
Vampires don't normally associate closely with the human residents of Mt. Pleasant, keeping
to their own and other paranormal beings. There were several human beloveds, but that was a
different story. Those people were special, and the vampire treated their beloved like a king or
queen. Those humans had a life that was to be coveted. Their wants and needs were always met, and
they were owed a love that was faithful forever. Gage held Deacon's hand for the comfort it afforded
him.
Once the doctor finished, the pain eased, and oddly enough, whenever Deacon touched him,
the warmth of that touch seemed to seep into his bones, making his body relax and the trauma ease. It
was probably psychosomatic, but either way, it helped.
"I'll show you out." Deacon walked Dr. Evens out, leaving the door open. He returned a few
minutes later and closed the door behind him. He went to the kitchen, got a bottle of water with a
straw, and set it on the side table within Gage's reach.
“Are you hungry? Would you like me to prepare something?” He asked.
"No, not hungry, and thanks for the water." Gage watched him walk over to the chair opposite
the couch and sit down. He kept his eyes on Gage, holding him in a dark, contemplative stare. Gage
took a tentative sip of his water and waited to find out why he was there and why this man cared.
“Do you know who I am?”
“Deacon Haas, vampire.”
"Is that all that I am?" That question threw him for a second, but then it dawned on him, and he
thought he knew what Deacon was getting at.
"You're here to make sure I understand the consequences of breaking coven law. You're a
leader; you have a title; I can tell by your suit and demeanor. I understand very clearly and will never
trespass on coven grounds again; you have my promise." Gage touched his lip when he finished his
statement.
Deacon leaned forward in his chair, placing his forearms on his thighs and lacing his fingers
together in a firm grasp. His eyes took on a quality that was both frustrated and saddened. Gage
squirmed in his seat, feeling the scrutiny of this man weighing down on him.
"When we were in the car, you asked me why I cared." Deacon started, and Gage nodded,
eager to discover the reason behind all the concern.
"You were found by one of my security teams, and I was notified that it was the third time that
you'd been apprehended on Coven property." Deacon broke eye contact and shifted his gaze to the
side. "We had several serious breaches of that border in the past and have worked tirelessly to keep it
secure. When I received that call, my anger at the blatant deliberateness of the breach reached a peak,
and I ordered the offender to be dealt with in a manner that would leave an impression."
"It was you that Lieutenant McKay was speaking to?' Gage decided to comment, remembering
the call and the look on McKay's face. That was the moment he knew he was in deep shit, and he
wasn't getting away with just a firm talking to like the other times he'd ignored the border.
"It was me who put you in the hands of Trenton Shift." Deacon clarified, and Gage stiffened at
the memory of being handed over to that cold bastard and being taken away. He didn't know what to
say to that Deacon sounded unsettled by his actions, but as far as Gage could see, he was just doing
his job.
"That was the third time I crossed your border. I wasn't intentionally trying to break your
laws; I was following a badger, and I think his den is on coven property. I deserved a harsher
punishment because, like I said, it was the third time." He noticed a glint of humor touch Deacon's
countenance at the mention of the badger.
“Why were you following a badger?”
"I wanted a good picture, and that night with the moon full and the mist that was covering the
ground, it made a perfect mood for a night picture. I wasn't paying attention like the other two times
and followed the badger." Gage wasn't sure why he felt the need to make this man feel better, but it
bothered him that Deacon was taking responsibility for his own bad behavior. Actions have
consequences, and that's just the way of the world.
“Did you get the picture?”
"Yes, but Trenton destroyed my camera and my phone and made me watch while he did it.
That was more painful than the beating he gave me afterward." Gage reached over and picked up his
water, needing to do something to take his mind off the loss of his things. The camera and its SD card
were ground into the cement floor of that horrible building. Trenton took pleasure in watching the
misery in Gage's expression, and the memory still broke his heart.
“Is wildlife photography a hobby of yours?” Deacon brought him back to the action and away
from the loss.
"I wanted to participate in the photo competition at the State Fair this year. The grand prize is
five thousand dollars, and the exposure for anyone who manages to place is extensive. I thought it
would help me get more recognition and bookings."
“You’re a professional photographer.” Deacon seemed taken aback.
"I'm trying to be, but it's a struggle. I thought the competition would help me, but I guess not.
I've done a few birthday parties and graduations, but I also want to get into weddings and private
contracts." Gage hung his head at that point, feeling ridiculous talking about professional photography
when he no longer owned a camera. That dream was way off in the distance once again.
Deacon moved from his chair to sit next to Gage on the couch. He didn't look at Gage, but his
aura was intense. It was obvious that he was a powerful vampire just by the energy that was radiating
off him. "There is more to you and me than just my need to be forgiven." Deacon sighed deeply.
“What does that mean?”
"It means that when I went to the blockhouse where Trenton abused you, I discovered
something." He paused for a moment before continuing and still did not make eye contact with Gage.
Gage found that he was holding his breath, wondering what he was going to say. The air was suddenly
filled with anticipation.
"You didn't know me yet came here to this isolated cabin with me and showed no fear after
everything that has happened to you. You accept my touch and even, I think, yearn for it just as I yearn
for your touch. Since we met, your injuries have begun to heal more quickly, and a good share of the
pain and discomfort has eased." He turned and regarded Gage with a sense of hope. His dark eyes
bore into Gage, penetrating seeing all.
"Something about you called out to me, and I was compelled to find you. I went to the
blockhouse to seek out the young human I'd sentenced to punishment. I couldn't understand what I was
feeling at first. It wasn't the first time I'd ordered corporal punishment. In my position, necessary
orders are not always kind or gentle, and never before had I questioned my decision. For some
reason, I had to find you. I had to know you were okay." Gage listened, wondering where he was
going with this declaration.
"I'm okay. You don't have to worry about me." Gage wanted to let him off the hook if that was
what he was looking for. "I'll heal, move on, find a place, and try it all again. A larger city would
better my chances at making it in photography, and maybe I could find a job in the field and gain some
practical experience. I forgive you if that's what you need to hear." Why was he having such difficulty
getting to the point?
“What are you trying to say to me?” Gage burst out.
Deacon nailed him with that dark stare one more time before making the statement that
managed to shock Gage to his core. “You are my beloved.” Silence fell for a few seconds while the
words sunk in, and Gage's fears surged to the surface again.
Gage understood the word and what it meant for the paranormal involved. They called them
fated bonds. His mother and Able were not a Fated bond, and it was one of the reasons his mother
ended up leaving, or at least that was what she claimed. Able spoke of finding his mate someday after
she'd left them, and he explained the power and the drive behind such a union. Gage knew that to be
this man's beloved would require much more change and acceptance on Deacon's part than on his.
Instead of happiness at the discovery, Gage found himself struck with a foreboding feeling.
No vampire of Deacon's class and status would welcome a beloved such as him, and now this
cabin in the woods and the kind words were starting to make sense. This wasn't what it appeared to
be but rather was a system of isolation and disposal. His life just kept getting worse by the day.
"I won't hold you to that." Gage needed to make it clear he had no expectations. "I will be
going to Detroit or further away if you wish. I will make myself scarce, and I will make myself gone.
You don't have to worry about me messing up your life, position, aspirations, or whatever." Gage
leaned back and away from Deacon, who was leaning forward and making him nervous as hell.
"You're going nowhere," Deacon stated firmly and reached out to Gage, who dodged away
and tried to stand.
"I won't make trouble for you, I promise."
"Do you think that I don't want you?" Deacon broke in, took Gage's upper arm, and held it
tight, preventing him from leaving the couch.
"I'll disappear; you'll never see me again." Gage kept up with promises in the hopes he was
allowed to go on breathing. This was going to end badly for him. He just knew it.
"Settle down." Deacon barked, and instantly Gage quit pulling away and became still. "You
are my beloved, the center of my existence, the promised love of my life. Why would I want you
anywhere except by my side?" He spoke very clearly, enunciating each word for better understanding.
“You’re not upset by the discovery?” Gage was skeptical but gave Deacon his undivided
attention. The man looked pleased, not angry or disappointed, but how could he be.
“The only reason I hesitated in telling you the complete truth of our connection was because of
the awful manner in which you were treated by my men and on my order. I thought you would turn
your back on me and not accept someone such as me into your life, someone who had caused you so
much torment." Deacon began his explanation. "I hoped that if we spent some time together, the
natural bond would help you see me as someone who could be trusted and relied upon."
“You want me, Gage Montague, as your partner in life?” Gage was still at a loss to
understand. Even the flowery manner in which Able had pictured the mate bond hadn't prepared Gage
for this kind of attraction. He would not deny that he was drawn to this man his presence, his aroma,
his aura, and his voice were like a growing addiction. The voice snagged him from the beginning,
driving deep into his heart and mind.
"More than anything in this world." Gage caught his breath on the sincerity in his tone and in
his eyes. "Breath, baby." He said, and Gage slowly released his breath, astonished by this
unbelievable outcome. His mind was scattering as he tried to make sense of it all.
"You really want to bond with me, take me to the coven, and present me to the Master as your
beloved." Gage was struggling. "This isn't pity, is it? Are you sacrificing yourself because you feel
sorry for having had me beaten? You don't owe me anything, and I don't owe you anything. Our debts
are paid, yours and mine. I took a beating, and you tended to my wounds. It's all done and over."
…
Deacon was making a mess of this, and he knew it. The more he tried to explain, the more
confused Gage became. "You are my beloved. I scented you in the blockhouse and searched for you
until I found you. It is not pity or a misguided sense of responsibility. It is my destiny and yours."
He didn't say anything in response, but he stopped pulling away, so that was progress. Deacon
kept his hand on Gage's arm, a connection that they both needed. "This is real, Gage. What I feel for
you goes beyond anything imaginable I feel you in my heart and in my mind, and in the morrow of my
bones, you are my beloved." He slid his hand down Gage's arm to grasp his hand and raise it to his
lips. "I will follow you to the end of the earth and beyond; you will never be rid of me, no matter how
hard you might try." He held his cautious stare with his own determined one and waited.
"I want to believe you," Gage whispered.
"You can believe me." Deacon pushed the hair away from Gage's face and carefully leaned
over, placing the lightest kisses on his tender, swollen lips. Gage responded fervently, grasping
Deacon's arms and holding him in a tight grip. His condition was still fragile even though he'd already
begun to mend due to their bond and growing connection. Being near to Deacon had jump-started his
healing, and his right eye was partially open now, and the swelling had gone down.
Still, he had a way to go before he was truly sound and fit. Deacon eased back and looked
down at Gage, who was still holding firm to Deacon's arms. "You need to get well first, and then we
take this all the way." Deacon was resolved that although the desire was fierce, nothing would happen
until his beloved had recovered. But that didn't mean there couldn't be some gentle intimacies.
The crooked smile that graced that lovely mouth was absolutely exquisite. This young man
was fast becoming the source of everything delightful in Deacon’s life. The bond was powerful, and
Deacon accepted that he would not be able to live nor be happy unless this man was by his side, in
his life, and loving him.
"You're a damn handsome man, Gage, and I look forward to getting to know you so much
better, but for now, you need to rest and heal."
Gage raised his hand and ran his fingers down the side of Deacon's face. It was sensory
perception learning through touch, and once again, Gage smiled, and Deacon's heart melted. "I can
wait, but not too long." He teased.
"It won't be long; I can guarantee you that." Deacon turned his head and kissed Gage's hand.
"Let me help you into bed and to get settled."
“I am rather tired, but I also want you so badly.” Those words burned through Deacon, and he
closed his eyes for a moment gathering his fortitude and tamping down the raging desire to take his
beloved fast and hard right here and now.
 "You're playing with fire, my love." He warned, and again that smile stroked his desire
making him think so many thoughts. "Come give me your hand." He abruptly stood and reached out for
Gage.
"Okay, I'll rest, but I want you to know I'm feeling much better. I can see from both eyes now,
and my joints have stopped aching." Gage took Deacon's hand and allowed himself to be pulled to his
feet. He brought him close and wrapped his arm around Gage's shoulders.
"Our connection and being so near one another is what is healing you, and once we have
completely bonded, you will heal completely. In the future, your injuries will be rare and will heal
immediately, just like mine. There are perks for you if you agree to be mine." Deacon winked at him,
and Gage leaned into his side as they walked to the back of the cabin to the one large bedroom.
“I’ll sleep on it and let you know in the morning.” Gage goaded.
"Like I said, you're playing with fire, baby." Deacon cuddled him close and dropped several
kisses on his sweet lips and across his cheek. "You make my blood burn."
“You’re welcome to stay.” Gage stretched and placed a kiss on the underside of Deacon’s
chin.
"Rest first. I want you well and strong." Deacon brought him over to the bed and helped him
off with his shoes before making him comfortable. He tucked the thick quilt around him, and after
another kiss, he straightened and took a step back from the bed.
"This is so crazy that I am fully expecting to wake up at any moment from this magnificent
dream." Gage reached up to him, and Deacon took his hand.
"It is a dream, Gage, a dream come true for both of us." He kissed Gage's hand and then
tucked it back under the quilt. "The cabin has a landline, so if you need to call anyone, feel free to do
so. There's a phone on the bedside table and one in the kitchen." He pushed the soft silky hair back
from Gage's face and noticed again that the bruising and swelling were diminishing rapidly, which
lightened his heart considerably. Another kiss, and he excused himself to the other room but left the
bedroom door open in case Gage needed him.
Deacon returned to the living room and poured himself a whiskey before taking a seat on the
couch. They'd worked through a lot in the past few hours, but there was still plenty to discuss. The
important matter was that Gage seemed accepting and fully aware of the meaning of a paranormal
Fated bond. He also appeared enthusiastic, which set most of Deacon's fears at ease.
He was a gorgeous young man, even with the bruising. Deacon was excited to move on with
this union and to begin their time together. The stepfather was still a sore spot as far as Deacon was
concerned. His lack of care and thought for Gage was riding Deacon. He needed to settle the score
with that man and hoped Gage did not object.
Deacon glanced back at the open door and heard the steady rhythm of his beloved's heartbeat.
Gage was asleep, and the total harmony Deacon was feeling at that moment was beautiful. His life
was reaching a fulfillment that he longed for but never knew if it would belong to him. The
circumstances of their meeting were appalling, and his guilt still hung on the edges of his mind, but
Gage was not blaming him or pulling away, and that was more than he'd hoped for.
His beloved had a big heart and a lovely disposition, so much more than a man like him
deserved. He would willingly die for this young man. He would willingly give his heart and his soul.
Gage was his center, and they had more than a lifetime to figure each other out. He took a long sip of
his whiskey, laid his head back, and closed his eyes for a moment.
 CHAPTER SIX
Gage lay there feeling the plush comfort of the soft bed and pillows and let his mind wander
to the previous day and the chaos that had led to him being homeless. Then Deacon came along a tall,
handsome, capable, and concerned man who turned his mess of a life around. He went from his
lowest point to his highest in the span of a few hours, and his head was still spinning.
He didn't know much about Deacon apart from the fact that he was the security team leader
who captured him and laid down the subsequent punishment. Deacon apologized for it all, and Gage
really couldn't blame him for doing his job.
He received a harsh verbal warning the first two times he was caught, which he should have
headed. The third time they administered corporal punishment, a natural progression of penalties for
breaking their law. It all made sense to Gage, although the beating was severe and left him hurting in
every part of his body.
That beating was effective if nothing else, and Gage would not have ventured over their
border again for any reason. But then everything took a turn for the unbelievable, and now here he
was at Deacon's cabin in the woods, being told that he was the answer to his prayers, the center of his
universe, and the love of his life. He was a vampire's beloved, and it was blowing his mind.
Gage wasn't sure what the future held for him, but he couldn't turn his back on Deacon. The
draw to this man was too strong, and his heart would not allow him to dismiss the feelings that raged
within him. It took a while, but finally, he found himself drifting off to sleep with thoughts of bonding
with that great man filling his mind and his dreams.
It was dark outside when he woke, filling the room with shadows, and for a moment, he
wondered where he was, and then the memories flooded in and with them a sense of calm. This was
Deacon's home. They were together, and he was safe. After a few minutes of lying there enjoying the
restful relaxation of Deacon's soft bed, Gage sat up and threw his legs over the side.
He listened and heard faint sounds from the outer room. Gage stretched, reached over, and
grabbed the house phone from the side table. He punched in Eddie's number and waited.
"Hey, how are you doing?" Eddie burst as soon as he answered. "I heard that Commander
Deacon Haas is your beloved. That is so fantastic." Eddie continued, quite elated with the fact that
Gage would be part of the Coven now.
“He told you?”
"He told Robert they're friends and asked Robert how best to approach you considering how
he had treated you." Eddie paused. "He's really sorry for his actions, and I hope you can find it in
your heart to look past it and see what a fine man Deacon is and what a fine partner he will make."
"I never held it against him in the first place," Gage told him, and he heard Eddie's sigh of
relief, and Gage chuckled. "I wouldn't want to meet Trenton in a dark alley any time soon, but again I
guess he was just doing his job as ordered. There is no one to blame but myself for breaking their
laws repeatedly."
"You are amazingly understanding." Eddie cut in, sounding a little shocked.
"Yeah, I found that holding onto blame and grudges is exhausting, and I don't have time for that
sort of bullshit in my life."
“I wish I had half your resolve.”
“Who are you holding a grudge against? I’ve always found you to be super nice to everyone.”
Gage was surprised by Eddie’s statement.
"There are people who rub me the wrong way, but that's a conversation for another time.
When you move here with Deacon, we can have many long discussions." Eddie was a character, and
he found the thought of moving to the Coven was not as objectionable as he thought it would be.
"We're at his cabin in the woods. It's about twenty miles from town. It's nice and quiet and
relaxing." Gage described as he laid back on the pillows enjoying the warmth and comfort.
"He's a nice guy and a good leader. According to Robert, he has a real future in security.
Deacon started out as a field operative and was involved in a lot of coven business around the
world." Eddie shared what he knew, and Gage enjoyed learning a little about the man he was so
rapidly falling for.
"Why did he come back to work at the Coven? Didn't he like fieldwork?" Gage was just
curious.
"After a century in fieldwork, they like to cycle you back to the coven for a few years, and
Deacon said he was ready for a change."
"A century? Holy cow, how old is he?"
"A few years older than Robert; he's around one-hundred-eighty or maybe ninety years old, I
think," Eddie said it so matter of fact that it made Gage laugh. He knew that paranormal beings lived
long lives, but it was surprising to find out the man of your dreams was pushing two hundred.
“He doesn’t look a day over thirty.”
"Isn't that true," Eddie commented. "Very few at the Coven have actually started to age. They
all look in their thirties or younger, except for Chef Reid; he's starting to go gray. I can't even imagine
how old he must be to be finally showing some age."
"I'm nineteen, and I already have gray hair." Gage threw in.
"Once you bond with Deacon, you won't get any more."
“Good to hear.”
"The perks are many." Eddie's innuendo was clear and brought a smile to Gage's face.
"That's what I've been told." They talked for a while, and Eddie answered his questions
regarding beloveds and what to expect. He described it as the most wonderful relationship ever
imagined and a love that transcends the galaxies, and at the end, Gage was ready to fall at Deacon's
feet and beg him to claim him as soon as possible.
"It's beyond anything you could imagine, so embrace him, Gage, and you will never regret it."
Eddie ended his pitch.
“You had me at transcending the galaxies Eddie. Thanks for talking to me. I appreciate your
perspective, and you've really eased my mind." Gage told him honestly.
"You're welcome, and I look forward to your commitment ceremony here at the coven." With
that, they said their goodbyes, and Gage hung up the receiver. It was a good talk, and Eddie gave him
a lot of things to think about.
Gage washed up and then ventured out into the living area. Upon checking himself in the
mirror, he felt much better and noticed that his face was nearly healed. All that remained was a little
discoloration around his eye and jawline. His body felt as if that beating had never happened. Both
Deacon and Eddie had told him that being near his beloved would speed his recovery, but he never
realized it would happen so fast.
When Gage entered the outer room, he saw Deacon in the kitchen, and it looked like he was
preparing something. Deacon had changed out of his perfectly cut black suit into a pair of jeans that
hugged him in all the right places, and a cotton pullover that accentuated his muscled chest and arms.
Gage had to force himself to focus to avoid drooling at the sight.
He turned around and waved Gage over. "I'm just about finished thought we could both use a
bite to eat. Would you grab the salad, and I'll carry the chicken and potatoes?" Gage grabbed the salad
and the juice and carried them to the table. Once they were seated, Deacon poured their juice and
offered him coffee or tea, but Gage declined.
“Did you rest well?”
"Very well, I feel so much better than I did when I woke up this morning."
“You look nearly healed.”
"I feel great." The conversation went on like this, an easy back and forth until they finished the
meal and Deacon dished up dessert.
“Apple pie and ice cream.” He announced and set the plate in front of Gage.
"My favorite." Gage dug in, loving every bite. "I spoke with Eddie, and he's very happy for
us."
“Did he answer your questions?”
"How do you know I had questions?" Gage challenged, and Deacon cocked an eyebrow as he
gave him a sideways glance. "Okay, yes he answered my questions. Able spoke of mates but didn't get
into much detail, so Eddie gave me some details."
After clearing the table, they finished their dessert; Deacon led Gage back into the living room
and sat on the couch side by side. Deacon held Gage's hand in a loving touch and leaned back into the
cushions.
Deacon went through the motions of trying to find something to watch on the television and
then, frustrated, just turned it off and tossed the remote on the coffee table. "I want you, Gage. I want
you so damned bad." He said abruptly and turned to him, waiting for a response.
Gage felt the same way and did not hesitate to throw himself into Deacon's arms. "What are
we waiting for? I feel great." Gage pressed his lips to Deacon's and wrapped his arms around his
neck.
Deacon took over the kiss and moved to stand, taking Gage with him while never breaking the
kiss. He swung him into his arms and cradled him for a few seconds before walking off toward the
bedroom. Gage was getting everything he wanted.
…
Deacon tried to remain calm and allow his beloved the distance he needed to heal, but there
was no stopping when he turned and took Deacon's lips in an urgent and needy kiss. His explosive
desire took over, and he stood, picked Gage up into his arms, and headed for the bedroom.
The kiss went on, and the taste of his beloved filled him, and he demanded more. The softness
of Gage's lips and the firmness of his body in his arms pushed Deacon to hurry. The need to own this
man's body and soul was building to an uncontrollable level.
He would bond with his beloved this night. There would be no further waiting or attempts at
finding the right time. The right time was now, and Deacon's body was demanding satisfaction, and
his instincts were insisting that they bond. He rarely questioned his instinct, and he certainly wasn't
going to do so now. This was their time, and to wait would serve no purpose.
He laid Gage down on the bed and sat next to him on the edge while leaning over him. Deacon
wanted to clarify his intent and give Gage one chance to refuse. He moved closer with his face mere
inches from Gage’s.
"I want to claim you, mark you as the beloved of the Commander; I want to make you mine
tonight," Deacon spoke clearly but with a fervent desire that showed in his eyes and was evident in
the heat of his touch. He could see the answering heat in Gage's expression and began a fiery trail of
kisses down the side of his face and across his jaw.
"Claim me, Deacon everything in me longs to be yours." Gage's tone was raspy with pent-up
emotion, and his breath came out in ragged pants. "I'm yours, Deacon."
Deacon moved his hands under Gage's sweatshirt and eased it up, baring his midriff and chest
so soft and smooth beneath Deacon's hands. He kept pushing until the garment was off and Gage was
bare to his touch. The bruising had all but disappeared, and Gage moved with a fluid grace that
indicated he was no longer in pain. Seeing him whole and healthy was a blessing, and Deacon vowed
that no harm would ever befall him again.
He made quick work of Gage's remaining clothes, stripping him gently and baring him to
Deacon's admiring gaze. He found his heart racing with the need to taste, and he did not deny himself.
Deacon flipped Gage onto his stomach and slid down his lovely body to sink his teeth into his
luscious ass. The flavor was out of this world, and Deacon drank deep for a few seconds and then
pulled out, licking the little wound until it was healed.
“You taste like heaven.” He spoke faintly against the soft roundness and kissed the area while
his right hand searched and found Gage's tight entrance. Gage was muttering incoherently and rubbing
his face against the pillow. His pleasure was on full display, and Deacon took pride in his beloved's
pleasure.
He took the lube from his pocket where he'd put it earlier and covered his fingers and Gage's
hole liberally with the slippery substance. Deacon worked the tight muscles stretching and
penetrating, filling his beloved and listening to his sounds of delight.
“Oh, that feels so good.” Gage hummed and squirmed, reveling in the stretch and the
sensitivity. Deacon plunged his fingers deeply, seeking and finding his pressure points, and hit them
repeatedly with each thrust, building Gage's excitement, and exhilaration, stimulating him to the point
of release and then pulling out.
"Don't stop, don't stop." Gage chanted, dismayed by his sudden retreat.
"Not stopping, baby. Don't worry; I will take care of you; I will always take care of you."
Deacon told him while pulling off his shirt and tossing it away. He kicked off his boots and opened
the front of his jeans, releasing his hard, throbbing cock. Taking it into his hand Deacon stroked it
several times, coating it in lube and prepping himself for entry.
He grabbed Gage by the hips and pulled him backward toward the edge of the bed to where
his legs dropped over the side, and his ass jutted up toward Deacon. Gage spread his legs apart in
anticipation of what was to come and looked back over his shoulder at Deacon with a look that was
pure lust.
Deacon stroked his cock a few more times for Gage's benefit and saw the lust burning in his
eyes, and it was beautiful. "Are you ready to be mine?"
"Yes." Just one word, sharp and clipped and filled with want. Deacon was at the point he was
craving this man, and if he didn't get inside him in the next few seconds, he would surely die. He
grabbed his hips and pulled him back slightly and lined up the head of his now leaking cock, and
nudged the loosened opening.
"Open for me, baby." He said, and Gage spread his legs wider, and Deacon plunged inside,
pulling Gage's hips back as he buried himself to the hilt inside his gorgeous beloved. The sensations
were singing along his nerves and igniting an all-consuming fire. The tight embrace held him fast, and
as he pulled back and then slammed inside once again. Gage fell into rhythm with him and soon
hammered his way to completion as Gage cried out and begged for more.
 CHAPTER SEVEN
Gage was flying so high he thought he would never come down. Deacon was nailing him and
making every inch tingle with outrageous sensations. He was mastering him in a way that brought
every feeling to the surface and making his body sing. "More, Deacon, more." He chanted as his
climax surged, and he teetered on the edge.
Deacon held him fast as he filled him over and over, pounding to their mutual limit pushing
Gage to new heights of pleasure. Was it this man or the bond that made this a world-shattering
connection? All Gage knew was that he never wanted it to stop and never wanted to lose this amazing
man.
Deacon slammed inside and held Gage up and off the bed in a beautifully aggressive show of
desire and dominance that Gage needed and craved. He felt Deacon break and come in hot titillating
bursts filling him full. Gage shook with the overload of sensations.
He held on, throwing his head back, and came when Deacon sank his teeth into his throat's
tender flesh. The feelings and awareness that flooded him was like a raging river touching every part
of him, mental, physical, and emotional. Everything was alive and on fire.
Deacon fed and continued to thrust while holding Gage to his chest, wrapped in his strong
arms, safe from all things that sought to do harm. Gage had never felt so safe and secure and so loved.
No one could do the things Deacon or the feelings he produced without there being a deep-seated
emotional bond.
Gage closed his eyes and leaned against Deacon, letting him take all the weight. He slowly
extracted his teeth and licked the area until it was sharply sensitized, sending a thrill through Gage at
every touch.
He then pulled out and, with one hand, pulled the quilt off the bed and tossed it aside. He then
lay Gage back onto the bed. Gage realized Deacon was still wearing his jeans. They were slung low
and wicked sexy. His large cock, which was again beginning to harden, was on full display. The
vision before him was so beautiful and so erotic he felt his heart begin to pound and his balls tighten
at the sight.
Deacon removed his jeans, moved up to lay down next to Gage, and pulled him into his arms,
wrapping himself around Gage's body. "We are one, my beloved. You are mine to love and to hold.
You will not regret accepting me as your own I will strive every day of my life to honor you."
Deacon’s words were slow and thought out and delivered with a sincerity that touched Gage
deeply and thoroughly. He did not doubt his pledge and promise and knew his life would be better in
every and all ways with Deacon by his side.
He felt Deacon’s hand slide across his hip and reach around to cup the cheek that he'd bitten
earlier. The bite was out of this world and never had Gage thought such an immediate full-body
arousal was possible, but it happened every time Deacon bit him, and Gage lived for it.
"I don't want you feeding from anyone but me." He figured to put that out there right away
because he could not bear to think of anyone else experiencing that level of excitement at Deacon's
hands. The mere suggestion brought a wave of jealousy so powerful he felt himself stiffen with anger.
"Easy baby, I will never touch another. You are it for me from now until the end of time itself.
You never have to wonder or fear that anyone will ever take your place, for it is impossible and
unthinkable. I desire only you, and I love only you. That is another perk of the Fated bond." Deacon
whispered the words right next to Gage's ear, and he calmed instantly.
"I feel the same for you," Gage admitted. "I look at you, and I see everything I will ever want
and more. You are my beloved, and no one will ever compare to you." Gage gave a similar pledge,
and just having said the words made him feel even closer to Deacon. The bond had opened his mind
in a way that he could see this man so clearly, and now his heart was open and accepting of all that
was being offered.
Deacon kissed him hard, eating away and consuming him heart and soul. He moved and seated
himself between Gage's thighs and began nudging at his entrance once again. "I need you." He said,
and Gage wrapped his arms around him and jutted his hips upward in open invitation. Deacon thrust
inside and once again filled him full, stretching and sensitizing the area once again. Making love with
Deacon was fast becoming his favorite pastime.
…
Deacon was intoxicated by this man. He couldn't get enough, and every second brought new
discoveries and excitement. He plunged deep inside, feeling the tight, velvety touch of his beloved's
channel, loving the embrace and riding high on the sensations it advanced. He continued their heated
kiss and started a rapid rhythm of thrusts that had Gage moaning with delight and holding on tight.
Gage's body was made for him. They fit together perfectly and moved as one to the rhythm of
their wants and needs. He began to thrust hard, still holding the kiss, the taste and the touch of his
beloved driving him fast to the edge. He reached his peak and plunged forcefully inside, burying his
cock to the hilt, and came. Deacon tore away from Gage's lips to once again sink his teeth into the
lovely bonding scar on his throat.
Deacon came again and again, filling his beloved once again with his essence and marking
him as the beloved of the Commander. He drank deeply, reveling in the invigorating flavor of his
sweet lover and the energizing quality it contained.
Feeding had never been like this, exciting and emotionally charged. He finished slowly
licking and healing the scar and placing a loving kiss on the area before pulling out and wrapping his
beloved in the security of his arms.
“I will never get enough of you, my love." He stated and pulled Gage even closer as the touch
of his skin provided both comfort and thrill.
"I'm glad to hear you say that," Gage mumbled against Deacon's chest where he lay his head.
"I never want you to leave."
"I will never leave, that I can promise." Deacon was amazed at the feelings that surged and the
desire that exploded when touching this man. He was his world, and Deacon would do anything to
keep him close.
…
Silas put in a call to Robert asking him to meet in his office as soon as possible following a
report he received from Bastian, who was currently running a team of field operatives in California.
"Commander Haas put in an immediate transfer for Trenton Shift to join the team in California
investigating the dark prince," Silas stated.
"Yes, after finding out that Gage Montague was his beloved, he had to remove Trenton from
the area for fear he might hurt Trenton or treat him unfairly, considering he was the soldier who
delivered Gage's punishment for trespassing," Robert added the detail and Silas nodded throughout.
“I am aware of the circumstances, and it was truly unfortunate that Deacon had not discovered
their connection before the punishment took place. But none of us are privy to Fate's plans or motives.
We simply have to play it out and hope for the best.” Silas stood and walked over to stand at the
window.
"Master DuCane has ordered that the blockhouse or the exterior cells, as they are sometimes
referred, be demolished and removed from the grounds. It is an unnecessary and redundant facility.
We have cells and interrogation rooms on the basement level here at the Palace." He turned to regard
Robert, who remained seated by the desk. "Besides, he doesn't want it to remind Commander Haas of
the violence that took place there involving his beloved."
"Yes, sir, I'm sure Deacon will appreciate that gesture," Robert commented.
"With that said, I will get back to the reason for this meeting." He began again, and Robert
gave him his undivided attention. "I've been contacted by Bastian, and Trenton never arrived. He
should have gotten there sometime yesterday morning at the very latest. His quarters are empty, and
according to Lieutenant McKay, he left two nights ago on a flight out of Mt. Pleasant on a private jet
along with other transfers and supplies.”
Silas walked back to his desk and sat down. "There is no record of Trenton Shift boarding that
flight, and he is not answering his phone.
"As far as I knew, he left. I don't know what the issue is, but I will investigate." Robert was
about to stand when Silas motioned for him to stay seated.
"Lieutenant McKay indicated that Trenton was not pleased with the transfer and made several
remarks about Gage Montague before he shut it down," Silas informed and waited for Robert's
comment.
"You think he may go after Gage? That seems a little out of character for Trenton. He's a rule
follower." Robert added.
"Where are Deacon and Gage staying? They should be warned regardless."
"Deacon has a cabin in the woods about twenty miles east of the highway. Eddie talked with
Gage last night, and things were fine." Robert was getting concerned.
"Call Deacon and warn him," Silas instructed, and Robert agreed.
“Right away, sir.”
…
He slept with his beloved secure in his arms, a restful sleep warm and sound, and woke to the
sound of birds outside the window. He loved this cabin, such a peaceful place, and now he loved it
even more because it was where he claimed his beloved. Gage was still asleep, and he listened to the
soft beat of his heart and felt the feather lightness of Gage's breath against his throat. This was truly
paradise.
The sun was up, and the clock told him it was time to get up. They'd had a lovely and eventful
night and had slept well into the morning, but now he wanted time with his beloved. They were fully
bonded, and Deacon wanted to spend some relaxing hours with Gage and to learn more about him,
about his past, and about his dreams for the future.
His photography goals were fully doable, and Deacon would see to it that his equipment was
all replaced. It was unfortunate that Trenton saw fit to destroy his property that was not part of the
order, but there was nothing to be done about it now. When he began to move, Gage woke and
stretched but did not move away from Deacon; instead, he wrapped his arm around him, hugging him
close.
"Good morning, sweetheart." Deacon kissed his forehead and ran the palm of his hand down
Gage's side, reveling in the smooth warmth of his flesh.
"Good morning." Gage reciprocated and then asked. "What time is it?"
“Eleven thirty.”
 “It was good to sleep in . . . with you.” Gage yawned and stretched.
“How are you feeling?”
“Great, like the beating never happened.” He lifted his head to look down into Deacon’s face.
“How do I look?”
"You look gorgeous." That brought a soft giggle and a delightful smile. Deacon rolled, pinning
Gage beneath him. "Let's have some breakfast and then take a walk. This area is really lovely. I want
to discuss some things with you.” Gage became instantly wary.
“Like what?”
"Like, will you move in with me? I have my quarters at the Palace, a nice place plenty big
enough for the two of us." Deacon felt Gage stiffen slightly, but he didn't say no, so that was good.
After a few seconds of thought, he answered. "Sure, I know that you're important and that you
have a good job with the Coven, and I wouldn't want to interfere with that" Gage was a very practical
man, and it made Deacon smile.
"Thank you, my love. I'll make it good for you, I promise." He kissed him then and sat up,
moving to the edge of the bed and put on his jeans. "Pull yourself together and meet me in the kitchen."
He said and headed out because if he didn't, he was going to ravage his beloved once again. He
honestly could not get enough of that young man. He heard that infection giggle once again as he
proceeded down the hall toward the kitchen, and it brightened his entire day.
He washed up and pulled on a t-shirt and boots before fixing scrambled eggs, bacon, fried
potatoes, and toast for breakfast and preparing two cups of coffee. He loved providing for his
beloved, and it didn't hurt that Gage was appreciative of everything he did. There was a lot he didn't
know about Gage, and he looked forward to learning all his likes and dislikes and hearing his life
experiences and opinions on everything.
The bond had opened up a deeper familiarity with his beloved. He could sense and identify
his feelings, fears, and some thoughts, which told him Gage was happy, and that was all he needed to
know for now. He set the table and decided to give Robert a call while he was waiting for Gage.
Trenton should be in California by now, and Deacon wanted to make sure he was there and
settled. Trenton needed to be far away from him and his beloved. Gage, although putting forth a
façade of strength and acceptance in regard to the beating, was actually still traumatized by the event.
Their bond allowed him to feel the fear he held where Trenton Shift was concerned.
He searched for his cell phone and then realized he'd left it in the SUV, so he picked up the
house phone and dialed Robert. He heard Robert answer, and then the phone went dead. He tried
again, but nothing. After checking the connections and finding no issue, he decided to make his call
later after he retrieved his cell from the SUV. It wasn't uncommon for him to lose service out there, so
he thought nothing of it.
When Gage entered, all thought of calls and service fled his mind, and all he could think of
was how handsome he looked. His hair was brushed back from his face, and his soft brown eyes took
in the room and Deacon in a single sweep. "Breakfast is ready, my love. Come and take a seat; I shall
serve you." He was feeling gallant, and he loved taking care of his beloved.
"Thank you." He said as he took the seat that Deacon was holding for him. Once comfortable,
Deacon dropped a kiss on his cheek and then sat down opposite him at the small table. They talked
and ate, and it was shaping up to be a very enjoyable day until Deacon saw a movement by the
window out of the corner of his eye. Someone was outside, and he had no neighbors and was
expecting no visitors.
He jumped to his feet and rushed out the door, but not before instructing his beloved to stay
inside. Gage was alarmed, but he did as he was told, which was a relief. Deacon scented the area, but
nothing stood out, then walked the property around the cabin looking for evidence of someone having
been there.
He found nothing, so he searched the area and part of the woods a second time while keeping
his eyes on the cabin. Nothing seemed out of place, but his instincts were telling him that something
was off. He returned to the cabin and stood surveying the yard and the tree line beyond but did not
sense movement or a presence. After a few more minutes of observing, he went inside.
Gage was standing at the door somewhat wide-eyed and anxious, which he expected
considering how abruptly he'd run from the cabin. "I thought I saw someone or rather movement
through that window." He pointed to the window to the right of the front door. “I searched the area,
but I didn’t see a sign of anyone.” Deacon glanced out the window again before turning back to regard
Gage.
“Who would be out here? This is pretty isolated from what I could tell on the drive-in." Gage
voiced his concerns without being too obvious.
“It could be hunters or hikers.” Deacon offered a simple answer. “I’ve run across both out
here.”
“But you don’t think that it is either a hunter or a hiker.” That was a statement and not a
question. Gage was astute and even more so now that they had bonded. He could sense Deacon’s
uneasiness.
"I don't know for sure, but something is striking me as off." He tried to lighten the mood by
reaching out and pulling Gage in for a hug. "Don't worry, baby, I'll keep you safe." He said with a
smile that he was not completely feeling. The tension in his shoulders was telling him to be careful
and watchful.
"Why don't we postpone our walk until a little later." He suggested trying to make it sound
casual and not a concern for his safety and then added. "I left my phone in the SUV. I'll be right back."
He planned on giving Sheriff Keller a call but didn't want to share that with Gage just yet.
As he approached the SUV, his mind was on ending this outing and driving his beloved back
to the Palace. He didn't know what was in the wind, but he didn't like it, and he refused to put Gage at
risk.
He was about ten feet from the vehicle when it suddenly exploded. It was a deafening sound
that sent debris scattering around the yard and throwing Deacon several feet in the air, and he landed
on his back among the destruction. The shock stunned him for just a second, and then he was on his
feet and racing back to the cabin, fearing for the welfare of his beloved.
Gage met him on the porch as he was running out the door to help him. Deacon pulled him
back inside, then slammed the door and locked it. Deacon recognized that the cabin and its locked
door would be of little consequence to a bomber.
"Oh my god, are you okay?" Gage was clutching his arms and searching his face frantically,
trying to ascertain his well-being. "What happened?" He cried out.
Deacon brought them both further inside the cabin and away from the doors and windows.
“Someone is definitely out there.” He stated and pushed Gage toward the hallway. He moved with
him but seemed confused as to where they were going.
“The cabin isn’t safe.” He told him while grabbing his gun. It was a powerful handgun and
could kill most paranormals if that was who was stalking them. He took a hunting knife and strapped
it to his belt, and stuck a short sword in his boot. These were the only weapons he had in the cabin;
everything else had been in the SUV.
 CHAPTER EIGHT
Gage wasn't sure what he should do, but he trusted Deacon, so he was following his lead and
doing as he was told. The explosion was unbelievable. It reduced that large SUV to scrap that was
now scattered all over the yard and woods, and some parts even hit the cabin. Gage had been frantic
until he saw Deacon running for the cabin and relief flooded his heart.
He watched him gather arms as he directed him down the hallway toward the bedroom.
Halfway there, Deacon stopped and grabbed the runner from the floor and tossed it aside. Beneath the
runner was a trap door. Deacon pulled it up and revealed a rough-hewn ladder that led to what
appeared to be a dugout cellar.
Gage suddenly feared getting trapped and turned to look at Deacon, who understood his
concerns just from the look on his face. "The cabin will not protect us if he is lobbing bombs. I need
to get you somewhere safe while I seek out our attacker."
“Is the root cellar safe?” Gage looked down into the darkness below them.
"It's not a cellar. It's a tunnel." Deacon helped him down the ladder and then followed him
and closed the door behind him. "It runs downhill to the stream to the east of the cabin. It will place
us about a half mile away."
Gage nodded, content that Deacon knew what he was doing. When they reached the end of the
tunnel, it opened onto the banks of the stream that Deacon had mentioned. It was well hidden among
trees, brush, and a rock cliff. "I'll be okay here, Deacon, don't worry. Go and do what you need to
do." Deacon was a warrior, and Gage had no doubt he could handle himself. "Go and take care of that
bastard and then come back and get me. I'll be waiting."
Deacon pulled him in for a tight embrace and a kiss that he could feel to his toes before
abruptly releasing him. He handed Gage the hunting knife from his boot and tucking him back inside
the tunnel, then covered the opening with some nearby brush. "I'll be back, my love. Stay quiet, and
don't move." He stated softly, and then it was silence.
Gage listened, tuned in for any sound, and unfortunately, in a forest, there were many. He was
constantly getting spooked, wondering if the bomber was close by or looking for him, and then things
would get quiet again. It was nerve-racking sitting there waiting and wondering. Even though he had
full confidence in Deacon's abilities, he still worried, and he didn't want anything to happen to him.
The time they'd spent together had been great, and Gage had very little greatness ever happen
in his life. Although only having known him for such a short while, Gage did not want to imagine
never seeing him again. The thought was terrifying. It was all he could do to stay seated, hiding there
in the tunnel, and not go out and try to help him. Deacon could function better without him in the way,
and he kept telling himself that.
He heard something, a crunching of the undergrowth, a sound that could not be mistaken for
anything except footsteps, and he froze. Gage held his breath as the sound grew nearer. "There you
are." The sound was terrifying, and Gage's heart leapt into his throat.
…
Deacon went back to where the SUV had been destroyed and tried to pick up on the signature
of who placed the bomb and any indication of where they were hiding. But everything smelled of
gasoline, oil, burned parts, and foliage. There was no hint of who was responsible. The odd thing
about it all was the prevailing smell of daylilies, and yet there were none in sight, and he'd never
noticed lilies in the area.
He found the scent the strongest in the center of the blast, so he started there and followed. It
didn't make sense, but it was the only lead that he had so far. It circled the cabin strong in some areas
and fainter in others. He was starting to believe that someone was using the lily scent to mask their
own.
Some varieties of daylilies were pungent to the point of covering other scents. He hadn’t
heard of them being used as a masking agent, but it could be done. He now knew that whoever was
stalking him was paranormal, for humans would not take into consideration their scent or the fact that
he could follow them by their scent. The stalker knew him and knew he was a vampire.
Deacon moved swiftly through the forest, focused on finding the source of the aroma but
paused when he came to the edge of a large clearing. It was tall grass with a scattering of rocks, and
if he crossed it, he would be completely in the open for anyone hiding in the adjacent woods. The
scent crossed through it, but his gut was telling him to be careful. He felt a heaviness, and his mind
was suddenly filled with visions of Gage and the need to get back to him.
He contemplated circling along the edge to his right, but it would be a longer walk, and he felt
an urgent need to get back to his beloved. He would have to take his chances and cross the clearing.
He must have paused long enough that his stalker grew impatient and called out. The minute he heard
the voice, he knew what was happening, and his fear for Gage's safety skyrocketed.
“Good afternoon Commander. Are you surprised to see me?" Came the dull, dark tones of
Trenton Shift. Deacon did not respond and began to walk towards him. He was standing half hidden
behind a dilapidated deer blind, but Deacon could see him clearly now. "Not so close, Commander;
stop where you are." He shouted, but Deacon kept walking.
Trenton stepped out from behind the blind and showed Deacon what he held and then told him
again to stop. There in the grips of this madman was his precious mate. Deacon stopped and started
calculating attacks figuring out methods to extricate without harm. His mind was racing, and his heart
was breaking.
"This little bitch right here signaled the end of my chosen career path." He chuckled and
moved onto the edge clearing. Deacon kept his eyes on Gage, channeling peace and calm to his frayed
nerves. Trenton held him with an arm around his neck and a gun to his head. The gun was a small
caliber but was fully capable of ending Gage's life.
"Because of him, you sent me to field operations in California. I wanted to make a name for
myself at the Coven to rise in the ranks and take a leadership role at the Palace. This little bitch
ruined it all." He pulled Gage up closer to his chest with his arm across his throat, restricting his
breathing.
"It will be decades before I'm reassigned to the Coven proper just because this little bitch is
moving in and doesn't want to see my face." Trenton was showing more emotion than Deacon had
ever witnessed before, but it was all anger and resentment and fomenting rage, unfortunately.
"I decided that you had to leave, not Gage. Let him go and deal with me." Deacon stated, but
Trenton simply shook his head like it was a terrible idea.
"You are both going to pay. I will kill him, and then I'm going to kill you. I know that he's your
beloved, so his death will weaken you enough that it should be easy to kill you. Then I will dispose of
your bodies, probably incineration, and request a change of assignment from Lieutenant McKay." It
was an insane plan with zero chance of success, but Trenton was currently incapable of reason.
"Be a man, be a warrior; Trenton, kill me first." Deacon moved to the side, circling to the
right causing Trenton to shuffle to his right to maintain a visual line.
 “Stay still.” He shouted and pressed the gun flush to the side of Gage’s head.
"Are you a coward, Trenton? You have to weaken me first. You can't just take me on man to
man, hand to hand? Are you a coward?" He sought to push him and convince him to release Gage and
come for him. He was seething the anger in his eyes, and the way his vampire was coming out full
force indicated he was definitely reacting to the insult.
"Come on, show me what you got. Quit hiding behind that small human. If you want a
promotion and the respect, you will have to kill me and show them how tough you are, Trenton. Drop
the gun, and let's do this like real men." Deacon tossed his gun to the ground and waited. Finally,
Trenton reacted by throwing his pistol off to his left and dropping Gage to the ground. He then
charged at Deacon in a blind rage. Trenton was losing control.
Deacon countered by faking left and then pummeling him with two shots to the midsection.
Trenton leapt upon him, using his sharpened nails to rake across his shoulder and down his arm. It
was painful, but minor, and Deacon was able to wrap his arm around Trenton's neck and wrestle him
to the ground.
They fought hard, and although Trenton was off his game, he was still a vicious opponent.
Trenton freed himself by rolling and loosening Deacon's hold. He then jumped to his feet and charged
Deacon again, driving his nails into his side and opening a significant wound.
He tried to knock him off balance, but Deacon countered with a brutal punch to the side of his
head, causing him to stumble and lose his grip. Trenton scrambled and retrieved the pistol that
Deacon had tossed on the ground.
Deacon's gun was much more powerful than the one Trenton had brandished. This gun could
kill Deacon if the bullet hit him in either the head or the heart. Deacon grabbed the short sword from
his boot, but it was little defense against his Smith & Wesson model 500.
He took a quick glance at Gage, who was keeping low and off to the side and, with his eyes,
begged him to run, but he shook his head, and Deacon's heart fell. If Trenton started shooting, it was
unlike either of them would survive. He'd miscalculated. He should have never allowed Trenton to
get close to the gun. Trenton smiled a truly maniacal smile and pointed the gun at Deacon.
"Say goodbye, Commander." A gun went off, and blood spattered across Deacon's shirt. He
paused for a moment and then realized he had not been shot. He watched the shocked look on
Trenton's face fade as he fell to his knees, and a growing blood stain spread across his chest.
"Say goodbye, Trenton," Silas stated as he stood behind Trenton with Robert by his side.
Deacon released the breath that he'd been holding since Trenton had taken the gun and, with a smile,
turned and rushed over to Gage. He picked him up in his arms and squeezing him tight to his chest.
His love and relief spilling over.
"Thank you, sir, and thank you, Robert." He rained kisses down on Gage's upturned face, so
happy to have him safe in his arms.
“I’m sorry that crazy bastard managed to get so close to you.” He whispered and wrapped
Gage tightly in his arms, needing the closeness of his beloved and the knowledge that he was well and
safe.
“It wasn’t your fault Deacon and thank you for saving me.”
"It was Silas Patronne who saved you. He saved us both." He turned to look at Silas and
Robert, who were currently dealing with the remains of Trenton Shift. "Thank you." He couldn't say it
enough because, without their intervention, this day may have ended much differently and tragically.
"How did you know Trenton was stalking us?" He asked curiously as to why they showed up
there when he needed them.
 "Bastian called and said Trenton never arrived, and we discovered he'd never boarded the
plane," Silas explained. "He was angry and unhinged, and then Robert told me that he was unable to
get ahold of you either by cell or landline and that you were out here at your cabin."
"We wanted to warn you, so we decided to drive out here and tell you to watch out for him,"
Robert added.
“I’m glad you did.”
"Me too, man." Robert patted him on the shoulder.
"Are you two ready to return to the Palace?" Silas asked. "I have a call in for clean up, so they
will take care of the scene. Come on, let's get out of here. I think you and Gage would be more
comfortable in your quarters."
"I'm ready." Gage voiced emphatically, and Deacon chuckled.
“We’re ready, sir.”
…
They were driven to the Palace and, after a quick debriefing, headed up to Deacon's quarters.
Gage had never been inside the Palace before. As a matter of fact, he'd never seen the place until that
night he was taken to the exterior cells. He saw it for a moment at a distance and marveled at the
grandeur of the place. Now seeing it inside and up close, he was knocked for six at the size, the regal
air, and the beauty. It was truly out of this world.
His avoidance and fear of the place dissipated when walking through with Deacon by his
side. The power and presence of his beloved made all things right and good. Deacon swiped the
keypad, and the door swung open, revealing a lovely apartment. They were situated on the fourth
floor and overlooked the terrace and an elegant, skillfully designed garden.
"Make yourself at home, my love," Deacon told him and took his hand, walking him through
the large apartment to the back and into his bedroom. "This is your home now, Gage. Tomorrow I'll
take you around and introduce you and help you get familiar with the place. Master DuCane has asked
to meet you, so we will be having lunch with him and his beloved Ezra tomorrow." Deacon pulled off
his shirt and tossed it on the floor by the closet.
“He wants to meet me. Why?” Gage was surprised since Louis DuCane was not someone who
socialized.
"You're one of us now, Gage. You are considered a member of Coven DuCane, and you now
possess all the rights and privileges that go along with being a member." Deacon kicked off his boots
and removed his socks.
"This is fantastic. Thank you so much for letting me move in with you." Gage took off his shirt
and tossed it over with Deacon's and then kicked off his shoes.
"You are my beloved, and what's mine is yours. I'm glad you're here with me." He unsnapped
his jeans and lowered the zipper and walked up to Gage, and took him into his arms. "I love you,
Gage; I love everything about you."
Gage laid his head against Deacon's chest and listened to the steady beat of his heart feeling
so safe and secure. Deacon had fought for him and was ready to die for him, and Gage knew that he
would do the same for him. He was ready to commit and pledge his very life to this man.
"I love you too, Deacon." He said the words, and they came directly from his heart. He'd
never felt a connection like the one he had with Deacon Haas.
"Show me, baby, show me how much you love me." Deacon pulled his jeans down and off,
and Gage was treated to a lovely view of Deacon's cock hard and throbbing and making Gage's mouth
water.
 He dropped to his knees before Deacon and rubbed his cheek on that lovely prize feeling the
silky heat. He wrapped his hand around the base and took just the head into his mouth at first, just
savoring the flavor and the sensations that rushed through him. He took him to the root and felt the
erotic sensation of Deacon's cock slipping down his throat.
Gage was having a hard time as his own cock hardened to the point of pain, and his need
skyrocketed. He began a steady rhythm taking him deep and stroking him in a firm embrace. Deacon
trembled, and the act sent a thrill through Gage, and he wanted him to melt to come apart.
"Pleasure yourself, my love. I want to watch you touch yourself." Gage took his own cock in
hand and began a punishing stroke, fast and hard, needing the satisfaction and the release. He felt
Deacon tremble once again, and his cock stiffened, signaling that he was close, but before he came, he
pulled back, popping off Gage's lips, leaving him reaching for more.
Deacon pulled Gage to his feet and tossed him onto the bed. He removed the remainder of his
clothing and rolled him onto his stomach. “I want to finish inside you, my love." Gage nodded eagerly
to get the show on the road as his need to come was painfully close. He reached down and gave
himself a couple of strokes while Deacon applied lube to his hole, stretching and preparing him once
again for his large, hot cock.
Deacon pulled him up and spread his thighs apart, and entered, not waiting or hesitating, going
to the base and pressing hard before pulling out and plunging back inside. Gage was moving with him
trying to intensify the sensations and seek his own release.
The rhythm became fast and wild, and Deacon rode him, slamming inside his channel and
filling him until he felt himself stretching to accommodate the size and length of his lover. It was
mind-blow just like before, fierce and aggressive but also tender and loving. It was a strange but
intoxicating mixture that had Gage hooked.
Deacon plunged deep with a growl followed by breathless pants and came forcing stream
after stream of his seed, filling him full while he continued to thrust. Gage took his cock in hand and
stroked vigorously and with a wild abandon and came in an explosive climax. His body tightens,
holding Deacon in a merciless embrace, and Gage felt him come once again, pumping more of his
seed deep within the hot, velvety confines of Gage's body.
Deacon dropped down and sunk his teeth into the tiny scar and drank, thrilling Gage with a
full body sensation that titillated from head to toe. "That feels so damn good." He declared, and he
felt rather than heard Deacon's chuckle. Between the bite and the large cock that filled him, he was
about to come apart from the wild passions that raged within him. Making love with Deacon was an
experience he would never tire of if he lived to be a thousand.
"I am fast becoming addicted to you." He mumbled after Deacon had released him, and they
lay together in the middle of the bed. Deacon lay on his back with Gage draped over his side, resting
his head on Deacon's chest.
"I'm having the guest room converted to a studio for you," Deacon told him while they lay
there with their bodies entwined, simply resting and enjoying one another. "Your photography is
important, and I will replace the equipment you lost and anything else you may need."
"You don't have to do that. I don't have a job right now and won't be able to pay you back for a
while." Gage disclosed. "Able kicked me out and also fired me, so I have to find another job."
"You don't need another job. I want you to pursue your dream, and I will help you in any way
that I can." Deacon made himself very clear. "There is still time for you to enter the photo competition
at the Fair. I'll go with you and make sure no one bothers you while you chase down that badger."
“You’d do that for me?” Gage lifted his head so that he could look down into Deacon’s eyes.
 "I'd do anything for you, sweetheart." Gage smiled, and Deacon pulled him down for another
one of his breathtaking kisses. Gage knew that he'd finally found his home right here with this man in
the last place he ever thought he'd end up, let alone find such happiness, Coven DuCane.

THE END
 About The Author
B.A. Stretke

B.A. Stretke is a Gay Romance and fiction author who publishes through Dreamspinner Press, LLC,
and Amazon.com.

B.A Stretke began writing as a hobby. He read his first Jane Austen novel as a teen and was instantly
hooked. The age-old dream of being a novelist took hold. Now long into adulthood, and a few years
as an editor under his belt, B.A. is a full-time writer.

B.A. spends his days reading, engaging in sarcasm, and plotting the next storyline, often leaving little
head space for much else. He loves hiking through the Northern Michigan woods he calls home, often
finding inspiration for his books. Writing and finding that perfect cup of coffee occupy the rest of his
time.

B.A. Stretke lives in Northern Michigan.

Another random document with
no related content on Scribd:
beda willa, als S y a r d upper [261]Wasa, als M a m m a
Mammingha, Kampo Abbama, Beneko Syuxzama,
enz. 5 die in de 15de eeuw nog volle kracht en geldigheid had gehad,
verliep in de 16de eeuw. En bij den aanvang der 17de eeuw sprak
en schreef men nog slechts van pûnmiëtte, van to bihoef fen earme
end elindige liuwe, van omme wille fenne bede fen Bouwe end
Beike, van S j a e r d oppe Wease, van M a m m e M a m m i n g a ,
K a m p e A b b e m a , B e n e k e S j u k s m a . Dit verloop der taal,
dit verloren gaan der volle a- en o-klanken op het einde van woorden
en namen, had in het begin ook invloed op de geslachtsnamen, die
eveneens hunne eind-a in spreken en schrijven moesten missen.
Maar terwijl de vóórnamen en de algemeene woorden dien a-klank
voor goed verloren hebben, is die oorspronkelijke en schoone
uitgang, wat de geslachtsnamen aangaat, later, in de 17de eeuw
vooral, weêr hersteld geworden, zoo dat zij allen dien vorm, als een
kenmerk van hunnen Oud-Frieschen oorsprong, nog heden, in
geijkten zin vertoonen. Onze lijst geeft ons, in de spelling van
sommige Oud-Friesche geslachtsnamen, voorbeelden van deze
aanvankelijke wijziging der taal. Reeds hebben wij hier boven eenen
T i a r d B u r m a n n i e en eene T r y n H e r m a n e , leden van de
maagschappen B u r m a n i a en H e r m a n a ontmoet. P i e t e r
K a m m i n g a (C a m m i n g h a ) komt in ons register ook als
P e t e r K a m i n g h voor. Vooral als de namen in verbogenen vorm
staan, als zij dus, naar den eisch der oude taal, ook eenen
verbogenen uitgang vertoonen, is daarbij de a verloren gegaan. Zoo
vinden wij in het register den naam van P i e t e r C a m m i n g h a
verbogen als: „van P e t e r K a m i n g h e n ” en „den Steed (van)
P e t e r K a m m i n g e n ”. Verder „van Her F e d d e n ” = van H e e r
F e d d o , „van F e y c k e D o e t i n g e ”, „van R e n i c k
E m i n g e n ” (E m i n g a ), „den Steden A b i n g e n ” en
„A e b i n g e n ” (van A b i n g a of E a b i n g a ), enz.
Het is geheel volgens Oud-Friesche zede dat de benamingen in het
register over het algemeen zoo kort en eenvoudig mogelijk [262]zijn,
eensdeels zonder geslachtsnamen, anderdeels zonder bij- of
toenamen ter onderscheiding, of ook zonder bijzondere titels van
edeldom of rang. Slechts zeldzaam komen zulke toenamen en zulke
titels voor. Alles geheel anders als in andere Nederlandsche
gewesten, bij voorbeeld in het hoofsche Brabant, waar men zich met
zeer lange en omslachtige benamingen uitsloofde. 6 Ja, men ging in
Friesland nog wel verder in dien eenvoud, en liet ook den
vadersnaam achterwege, zoo dat enkel de eigentlijke naam, de
doop- of vóórnaam overbleef. Dit was vooral het geval bij zeer
geringe of bij geheel arme lieden, die ook nog heden onder de
Friezen veelal enkel en alleen bij hunnen vóórnaam genoemd
worden. Zoo vinden wij in de Leeuwarder naamlijst „L a m b e r t een
knecht.” Verder een A l e f , een J a r i c h , een H o m m o , een
T i e b b e (Ts j e b b e ), een O c k o , een F e d d e , een R o l o f ,
zonder meer. Dit waren geringe lieden; zij bewoonden slechts eene
„camer”. Dit zelfde was het geval met sommige arme vrouwen als
F e m , B a e f f , E e l c k , A e f f , F o e c k , L u b b r i c h , die
„alheel Paupers” (armen) worden genoemd, en, zekerlijk om Gods
wil (of „propter Deum” gelijk herhaaldelijk in het register voorkomt),
„camers” bewoonden, die aan Sint-Vyt, aan de hoofdkerk van
Oldehove, toebehoorden. Zoo ook A r i a e n , W y b e , J e s e l ,
Rynths, Gosso, Griet, Geert, Focko, Feyck,
J e t h s , allen geringe en arme lieden, zoo mannen als vrouwen, die
„cameren” bewoonden. Nog heden noemt men in Friesland eene
kleine en geringe woning, die slechts één vertrek bevat, een keamer,
en spreekt men niet van huis- of woninghuur, maar van keamerhier.

Ter nadere onderscheiding van zulke éénnamige lieden, en zoo men

daartoe geen gebruik wilde maken van het gewone redmiddel in
zulke gevallen, het bijvoegen van den vadersnaam, had men eenen
bij- of toenaam noodig. Zulke namen vinden wij dan ook in het
register vermeld, als G r o o t e J e l d e r t , O l d e W y b r a n t ,
W i t t e D i r c k , B l y n d e G e r t z a , enz. Deze bijvoegsels tot
den naam zijn gereedelijk te verklaren; ze [263]zijn nog heden wel in
gebruik, b.v. B l y n e B a u k e , G r e a t e H a n t s j e , L y t s e
S i p k e , R e a d e Ts j e r k , enz. Bij de benamingen van N y e
G e r r y t en van L e e u w e r d e r J e l l e is die verklaring niet zoo
gereedelijk. Was die G e r r y t (nog heden wordt deze naam in het
Friesch uitgesproken als G e r r y t , met duidelijk hoorbaren,
zuiveren, openen i-klank in de tweede lettergreep)—was die
G e r r y t ny, nieuw, te Leeuwarden komen wonen en had die
omstandigheid aanleiding gegeven tot zijnen bijnaam? Maar waarom
J e l l e , te midden van duizenden Leeuwarders levende en
wonende, in het bijzonder den toenaam van „L e e u w e r d e r
J e l l e ” verdiende, blijft mij een raadsel.

De onderscheiding met oud en jong, waarvan O l d e W y b r a n t

ons een voorbeeld geeft, ligt, bij twee gelijknamige personen,
bijzonder voor de hand. Wij vinden die onderscheiding dan ook
herhaaldelijk in het register toegepast; bij voorbeeld, bij O l d e
P e t e r S y m o n s z en J o n g e P e t e r S y m o n s z , bij O l d e
H e r D o w e en J o n g e H e r D o w e , bij O l d e H e r A l b e r t ,
enz.

Eene andere onderscheiding voor sommige gelijknamige personen

werd ontleend aan het huis, waar in zij woonden, of naar den naam,
naar het teeken van dat huis. Die onderscheiding was ten jare 1511
te Leeuwarden nog weinig in gebruik; hadden misschien de huizen
aldaar toen nog weinig eenen bijzonderen naam, een eigen
huisteeken of uithangbord? Het register vermeldt slechts eenen
E w t i n t A n c k e r , eenen E w a l d , die in het huis h e t A n k e r
woonde. Was dit het zelfde huis aan de Voorstreek bij de
Korfmakerspijp te Leeuwarden, dat nog heden een anker als teeken,
en dus ook als naam draagt? Opmerkelijk, dat de hedendaagsche
eigenaar en bewoner van dat huis, de Heer Ottema, bijna vier
eeuwen later, ook nog wel in de wandeling als „O t t e m a i n ’ t
A n k e r ” wordt aangeduid.—Verder noemt het register nog eenen
Her Johannes int Gasthuus.

De bovenstaande benamingen van O l d e P e t e r S y m o n s z ,

van O l d e H e r D o w e en O l d e H e r A l b e r t luiden zoo
vertrouwelijk, zoo gemoedelijk en ongekunsteld, niet waar? Zij
worden in die eigenschappen nog overtroffen door de benamingen,
waaronder sommige rijke en aanzienlijke, bij het volk om hare
deugden en milde, moederlijk weldadige eigenschappen beminde
[264]oude vrouwen, ware matronae, bekend waren. Te weten:
T i a l c k e m o e r , H e i l l m o e r en T y e t h s m o e r (Ts j a l k j e ,
H e i l t s j e en Ts j e t s k e naar onze spelling). En dat deze
eerwaardige vrouwen onder die eenvoudige, gemeenzame, maar
van achting en eerbied getuigende benamingen in het register
vermeld staan, strekt nog heden tot hare eere.

Nevens deze matronen worden nog een paar aanzienlijke of

welgestelde vrouwen in het register vermeld, die echter, ongehuwd
en kinderloos, met het vertrouwelijke moer niet konden worden
aangeduid. Dies worden zij genoemd en beschreven met het woord
dat haren ongehuwden staat in eere aanduidt, als G r e e t
J o n c f r o w en A e c h t J o n c k f r o u w . Eene andere,
waarschijnlijk minder aanzienlijke, ongehuwde vrouw wordt als
L y s c h M e n n e d o c h t e r (L i s k of L y s k j e , de dochter van
M e n n o of M i n n e ) vermeld.

Overigens worden de betrekkelijk weinige vrouwen die in het register

voorkomen, in den regel enkel met haren vóórnaam genoemd, gelijk
boven reeds vermeld is; of anders met vóórnaam en vadersnaam.
Zulke benamingen dragen T r y n G a e l e s , A e f f W i l l e m s ,
A u c k P i e r s , 7 enz.

Bij de benamingen der weduwen wordt haar staat steeds

bijzonderlijk vermeld, gemeenlijk als toevoegsel bij haren enkelen
vóórnaam; bij voorbeeld A m c k w e d u e , L y s b e t h w e d u e ,
A e f w e d u e , L y o e t h s w e d e . Deze laatste vrouw was
eigenaresse van vele huizen; zij komt dus herhaaldelijk in het
register voor, ook als L y o e t s w e d u e en als L y o e d s w e d u e .
Andere weduwen voeren ook nog den naam van haren overledenen
echtgenoot: S t y n R e i n e r t s w e d u e ; dat is: S t ij n
(C h r i s t i n a ), de weduwe van R e i n e r t of R e i n h a r t ; Y m c k
Joenke wedue, Mincka Ghyse wedue, Bauck
J a n s w e d u e en R y n t h s S y p t U n a m a w e d u e , anders
gezeid: [265]R y n t h s (R i n s k e ) de weduwe van S y p t U n a m a
(S i b a l t O e n a m a ). Eene enkele wordt in het geheel niet bij
haren eigenen naam, enkel bij dien van haren man vermeld; het is
P o w e l s F l e y s k e r s w e d u e , de weduwe van P a u l u s de
vleeschhouwer.

De geestelijken der Christelijke Kerk werden door de Friezen, vóór

de hervorming, steeds getrouwelijk met den titel van Heer (Her)
vereerd. Geestelijken worden niet zeldzaam in ons register
genoemd, steeds met dien titel, welke meestal, naar Oud-Friesche
zede, bij hunnen enkelen vóórnaam gevoegd is: H e r D o w e
(H e e r D o u w e ), H e r H o t t h i o , elders H e r H o t t y e
genoemd (H e e r H o a t s e ), H e r F e d d o , H e r S y f f r i e t
(waarschijnlijk een Duitscher, S i e g f r i e d —of anders is dit
S y f f r i e t de gebruikelijke verlatijnsching [S u f f r i d u s ] van den
mansnaam S j o e r d ; zie bl. 217), H e r S i p k e , H e e r A l b e r t ,
enz. Soms komen deze namen ook met toevoegsels voor: H e r
J o h a n n e s J o r r e t z , dus met zijn patronymicum; H e r
Douwe sacrista, Her Peter commissarius, Her
P i e r t o L e c k u m en H e r D y t h i o b y G a l i l e e (het
klooster G a l i l e a bij Leeuwarden, waar nu nog de buurt O l d e -
G a l i l e ë n haren naam af draagt), enz. De kloosterlingen worden
met de toenamen Broer en Suster onderscheiden (in het register is
herhaaldelijk sprake van eene, zekerlijk rijke nonne in het klooster
Fiswert, S u s t e r A n s c k ); terwijl een rijke kloosterpater een en
ander maal, zonder eigennaam en zonder nadere aanduiding, als
d e P a t e r wordt vermeld.

De titel Meester (Mester) kwam den mannen toe, die

wetenschappen en kunsten beoefenden en uitoefenden, en hij werd,
op de zelfde wijze als dit met den titel Her het geval was, bij den
enkelen doopnaam gevoegd: M e s t e r B u c h o , M e s t e r
H e m m o , M e s t e r A n d r i e s ; ook wel in Latijnschen vorm:
M a g i s t e r S y b r a n d . Het waren vooral ook de wondartsen of
chirurgijns, en zij die dergelijke ambten uitoefenden, en waar bij
oudtijds ook het baardscheren gevoegd was, welke in het bijzonder
met den titel van Meester werden vereerd. 8 Zoo meldt [266]het
register de benamingen van M e s t e r J o e s t W o n d t a r t z , die
elders als M e s t e r J o e s t B a r b i e r voorkomt; M e s t e r
T z e m B a r b i e r, M e s t e r J a n c k e B a r b i e r, M e s t e r
F e y c k e d e n o l d e n B a r b i e r , en ook M e s t e r P i e t e r
p u d i b u n d a S n y d e r . Welke pudibunda Meester Pieter sneed,
van menschen of van dieren, blijft onzeker; waarschijnlijk wel die van
dieren. Eindelijk nog M e s t e r A u g u s t y n A p o t e k e r , de
eenige artsenybereider die in het register genoemd wordt. Ook komt
daarin slechts één maal de titel Doctor voor, eigen aan D o c t o r
D i o n i s i u s D o d o , elders enkel D o c t o r D o d o genoemd,
waarschijnlijk een arts.

Deze titels en namen voeren ons geleidelijk tot die soort van
benamingen die aan een handwerk ontleend zijn, en die zeer
menigvuldig in het register voorkomen. Het schijnt omstreeks den
jare 1500 te Leeuwarden gebruikelijk geweest te zijn om den
handswerkman, ’t zij hij aanzienlijk ware of gering, een kunstrijke
beeldsnijder bij voorbeeld, of een nederige ketellapper, te noemen
met zijnen enkelen vóórnaam en daar den naam van zijn handwerk
als toenaam achter. Ook anderen, die geen eigentlijk handwerk
uitoefenden, maar die met de handwerkslieden in hunnen
burgerlijken stand werden gelijk gesteld, de kleine koopman of
kramer, de sjouwerman en de houtzager, zoo wel als de koster en de
stadsbode—zij allen voerden hunne benamingen op die wijze:
A d a m S c o m a k e r en U p k e S m i d t , O b b e S c r i u w e r en
P y b e R o g d r a g e r . Als de zoon het zelfde handwerk uitoefende
als zijn vader, ’t welk dikwijls voorkwam (vroeger by ’t bestaan der
gilden nog meer dan tegenwoordig), dan ging de toenaam van den
vader natuurlijk ook op zijnen zoon over, waardoor deze toenamen
wel den aard van ware geslachtsnamen verkregen, en als zoodanig
ook nog heden veelvuldig voorkomen. Zie bl. 179: M a e s d e n
Hantscomeker soen Maes Hantscomekers.

Gelijk van zelve spreekt, zijn de meest gewone handwerksbedrijven,

timmerman, smid, metselaar, bakker, schoen- en kleêrmaker, ook
het meest vertegenwoordigd onder de benamingen der Leeuwarder
burgerij. Zeer talrijk zijn benamingen als Ta k e T y m m e r m a n ,
P e t e r J a n z S m i d t , S y o u c k e M e t z e l e r, T z o m m e
B a c k e r , W i g l e S c o m a k e r , R o u k e [267]S c r o e r , 9 enz.
De skroaren (kleêrmakers) echter niet zoo talrijk als men zoude
verwachten. Maar toen ten tijde behoorde het maken der
kleedingstukken, ook van die der mannen, veelal tot den plicht der
huisvrouwen. De wevers daarentegen waren zeer talrijk in die
dagen, toen de groote stoomweverijen van den tegenwoordigen tijd
nog verre te zoeken waren: H e r o W e v e r , W i l l e m W e v e r ,
S y b r e n W e v e r , en soortgelijke benamingen, bij tientallen.
Opmerkelijk, maar gereedelijk te verklaren uit de omstandigheid dat
de Friezen in de middeleeuwen veel pelswerk droegen, gelijk de
oude afbeeldingen van lieden uit die tijden nog aantoonen—
opmerkelijk is ook het groot aantal pelswerkers of bontwerkers, in de
middeleeuwen pelsers, pelssers en pelsters, ook wel, bij letterkeer,
peltsers genoemd. Deze handwerkslieden waren zoo talrijk dat
geheele straten, waar zij hoofdzakelijk hunne woningen hadden,
naar hen werden genoemd: zooals de P e l s e r - of
P e l s t e r s t r a t e n te Groningen en te Emden. Dat zij ook te
Leeuwarden geenszins ontbraken, bewijzen de voorkomende
namen, als J e l k e P e l s e r , R e n i c k P e l s z e r , L u t h i e
P e l s s e r , enz. Talrijk waren, blijkens hunne namen, te Leeuwarden
omstreeks den jare 1500 ook de goudsmeden, even als dit steeds,
en ook nog omstreeks de helft dezer eeuw het geval was, als een
gevolg van de vele gouden en zilveren sieraden, die zoo
menigvuldig door de Friezinnen werden en nog worden gedragen,
en waarom zij reeds in de middeleeuwen vermaard waren: J a r i c h
G o l t s m i t , M e n n o G o l d s m i d t , W i l c k e G o l t s m i d , en
anderen.

Zeer vele andere handwerken en bedrijven vinden wij nog in de

benamingen van Leeuwarder burgers vertegenwoordigd: S y w o r d
S c u t e m a k e r (de schuitmakers komen talrijk voor), Z i e r c k
W a g e n m a k e r (het handwerk der wagenmakers wordt, even als
dat der kleêrmakers of skroaren (scroer), ook wel in het Friesch
vermeld: J e l l e W e y n m a k e r ), M e y n t W i e l m a k e r ,
G o s s e K u p e r , D i r c k G l a e s m a e c k e r , [268]A b b e
F e r w e r , D o w e D e c k e r , F r a n s L e y d e c k e r (de makers
van leien daken op de huizen), J a c o b L y n d e s l a g h e r (touw-
of lijnslager), W y b e K i s t e m a k e r (de kistemakers, later noemde
men ze schrijnwerkers, nu meubelmakers, waren zeer talrijk te
Leeuwarden), J u c k e H o l t s n y d e r , G e r b r e n
B e e l d e s n y d e r, H e r m a n M e s m a k e r, H e r c k e
K o e p e r s l a g e r , N a n n i n c k Y s e r m a n (deze laatste
behoort zeker ook tot de smeden—of was hij misschien een
ijzerkramer?); H a r i n c k S l o t e m a k e r , S y m o n
Z w e e r t s l a g e r , elders in het register S y m o n S w e r t f e g e r
genoemd: H e r k e K e t e l b o t e r , misschien de zelfde man, die
elders H e r c k e K o e p e r s l a g e r genoemd wordt; A l l e r t
K a n n e m a k e r , G e r r o l t S t e e n b i c k e r (steenbikkers komen
talrijk voor; waren het de lieden die baksteenen bebikten, bekapten,
beslepen? zooals in de middeleeuwen wel gebruikelijk was); J a n
S a e l m a k e r (zadelmaker), B r u y n S y d e n s t i c k e r (die zijden
kleedingstoffen, of stoffen voor kerkelijk en ander siergebruik
bestikte); A r e n t H o e d m a k e r , D i r c k C r a n s m a k e r ,
M a r t e n B r o w e r , T i e r c k Ta p p e r , P e t e r C a s t e l e y n ,
O e s w a l t K o k e n m e s t e r , elders in het register O e s w a l t
K o e c k e n m e s t e r genoemd (was dit een kok?); M e n t h e
K r e m e r , P e t e r M o e l k e r (môlker, moolker is nog de
hedendaagsch Friesche benaming voor den man die mool meel,
verkoopt); A e s g e ende W y b e M o l n e r (molenaar), P o w e l s
O l y s l a g e r , G o v e r t B o k e b i n d e r , O b b e S c h r i v e r (de
schrivers, ook in het Friesch als scriuer genoemd, komen niet
zeldzaam voor; waren dit openbare schrijvers, lieden die, om loon,
voor hen die niet schrijven konden, brieven en dergelijke stukken
schreven, of schrijvers bij een regiment soldaten of burgerwacht, zoo
als dezen ook later werden genoemd?); D i r c k S t a d b o d e en
B u c h o K o s t e r . Verder W i l l e m F l e y s h o u w e r en J a c o b
L a m m e s l a g e r, B o n t h i e F i s k e r, P e t e r Ty e u s k e r ,
elders in het register als P e t e r T i e s k e r voorkomende, (was dit
een tysker of tüesker? iemand die allerlei dingen inruilt en tegen
andere verruilt, een soort uitdrager dus, of een hynstetysker, te
Leeuwarden peerdetüesker, een paardekoopman of paarderuiler?);
T i e r c k S c h e r r i e r (Friesch skerjer—een lakenscheerder,
zoogenoemde wandskeer, of eenvoudig [269]een baardscheerder?);
E d e W a g e n a e r (een wagenmaker, of een wagenverhuurder?
gelijk misschien G e r r y t W e y n m a n ook); W i l l e m P o r t e r ,
ook W i l l e m P o e r t h e r genoemd (deurwachter of portier?);
S a e k a D r a g e r (een sjouwerman of vrachtdrager); P y b e
R o g d r a g e r (de roggedragers worden steeds afzonderlijk en
uitdrukkelijk met dien naam van de andere dragers of sjouwers
onderscheiden; zij vormen te Leeuwarden nog heden een
afzonderlijk gilde; rogge is het Friesche broodkoorn bij
uitnemendheid); J u c k e K a l c m a k e r , H e r m a n
S t r a e t m a k e r ; G e r c k e H o l t s a g e r, C l a e s S p o e l m a n
(speulman, speelman, muzikant of toonkunstenaar), F o p p e
H o r n b l a s e r , 10 enz.

Herhaaldelijk komen in het register mannen voor, die den toenaam

S c u t e f e r g e r of S c u t e f e r g i e r voeren: C l a e s
S c u t e f e r g e r, H i l l e S c u t e f e r g e r, U p k e
S c u t e f e r g i e r , J e t t h i e (J e t s e ) S c u t e f e r g i e r . Dit is een
Friesch woord en het luidt naar onze hedendaagsche uitspraak en
schrijfwijze als skûtefarjer, schuitenvaarder. Dat waren lieden die
koopwaren en andere vrachten, om loon, in hunne schuiten
vervoerden, gelijk nog heden de zoogenoemde schuitenvoerders te
Amsterdam; dus het zelfde te water, wat de „Wagenaers” te lande
waren? Deze „skûtefarjers” waren wel te onderscheiden van de
aanzienlijkere „scippers”, de eigenaars van groote schepen, tjalken
en „cagen” of koggen, waar mede zij, in dienst van den [270]handel,
reizen ondernamen naar andere plaatsen en landen over Zuider- en
Noordzee, en elders. Het schijnt dat deze schippers zeer bekende
mannen waren bij de Leeuwarder ingezetenen; immers zij worden in
het register enkel bij hunnen vóórnaam vermeld met het woord
Scipper daarvoor, als of het een titel ware, gelijk Her en Mester, op
bladzijde 205 hiervoren aangetoond. In het register worden
Scipper Hommo, Scipper Eeme, Scipper Sybren,
S c i p p e r O e n t h i e (O e n t s j e ) en anderen meer genoemd.
Opmerkelijk is het dat ook nog heden, nu het noemen der lieden
naar hun beroep of bedrijf nagenoeg geheel buiten gebruik gekomen
is, bij de schippers toch nog wel, juist als voor vier eeuwen, de naam
van hun bedrijf aan hunnen eigenen naam, ’t zij vóór- of
geslachtsnaam, wordt gekoppeld: „S k i p p e r D a m s m a ” bij
voorbeeld, S k i p p e r d e J o n g , S k i p p e r S k e l t e , enz.

Vrouwen, genoemd naar een beroep dat zij uitoefenen, komen uit
den aard der zake zeldzaam voor. Te Leeuwarden, ten jare 1511,
waren zij zeer zeldzaam. Trouwens, de tijd der zelfstandige,
ongehuwde, allerlei ambt en bedrijf uitoefenende, naar gelijkheid met
den man strevende vrouwen was in den goeden tijd van 1500
gelukkig nog lang niet aangebroken! In ons register vinden wij geene
andere vermeld als S a c k D e k e n n a i s t e r (S a c k = S a a k j e ;
nog omstreeks de helft dezer negentiende eeuw was er te
Leeuwarden eene „dekennaaister”, eene oude vrouw die er in het
bijzonder haar werk van maakte om dekens te naaien, over te
kleeden, door te stikken); verder eene A l e y t W e e f s t e r , eene
H i l c k N a a i s t e r , eene J o e s t N a i s t e r en eene S a p e
B a k s t e r . Bij deze twee laatste benamingen valt het zonderlinge
gebruik op te merken, dat in de middeleeuwen niet enkel in
Friesland, maar ook evenzeer in Holland en in de andere
Nederlandsche gewesten voorkwam, en dat zelfs heden ten dage
nog niet geheel in Friesland uitgestorven is, namelijk dat eene vrouw
eenen mansnaam of anders den mannelijken vorm van eenen naam
draagt, bij voorbeeld J a c o b , en niet J a c o b a . De Hollandsche
gravinne J a c o b a v a n B e i e r e n komt in oude oorkonden als
V r o u J a c o b voor; en zulke voorbeelden zijn bij honderden aan te
wijzen (zie bl. 184). Zoo ook worden deze Oud-Leeuwarder naaister
en bakster J o e s t (J o o s t ) [271]en S a p e genoemd, in stede van
J o e s t k e n of J o e s t y n e (J o o s t j e , J u s t i n e ) en
S a e p k j e . Verder doet het register ons nog eene L y s b e t h
O l y s l a g e r en eene G r i e t B a c k e r kennen. Omdat deze
bedrijfsnamen in den mannelijken en niet in den vrouwelijken vorm
staan, dien ze anders toch moesten vertoonen in overeenstemming
met de vrouwelijke vóórnamen, zoo vermoed ik dat L y s b e t h en
G r i e t het olieslagers- en het bakkersbedrijf slechts waarnamen als
weduwen (bij Lysbeth worden hare kinden, kinderen, vermeld) van
eenen olieslager en van eenen bakker, en niet uit en op zich zelve.
Ten slotte vinden wij in het register nog eene G h e e r t
F r o e d m o e r (G e a r t s j e —G e e r t j e ) vermeld, de eenige
vroedvrouw die destijds te Leeuwarden was, naar het schijnt; even
als het register ons ook maar één apotheker en één doctor noemt.
Ook onder de ingezetenen van Dokkum vinden wij ten jare 1511
slechts ééne vroedvrouw, K e n F r o e d m o e r .

Even als men de beroepsnamen wel als toenamen, ter

onderscheiding en ter nadere aanduiding, achter de persoonsnamen
voegde, zoo plaatste men ook wel, voor dat zelfde doel, eenen
plaatsnaam achter den persoonsnaam. Dat was dan de naam van
stad of dorp, waarvan de betrokken persoon herkomstig was. Die
plaatsnaam werd dan onmiddellijk achter den persoonsnaam
gevoegd, of door bemiddeling van het woordeken van daaraan
gehecht. Zulke benamingen, waaruit zeer vele hedendaagsche
geslachtsnamen ontstaan zijn, waren vooral in Holland en in andere
Nederlandsche gewesten zeer gebruikelijk; veel meer dan in
Friesland. Ons register vermeldt dan ook slechts weinigen van zulke
benamingen. Het zijn die van J o h a n n e s G o c h , van H e n r i c k
B y l e f e l t en van T h o m a s S c h l e y s w i c k (S l e e s w ij k , nog
heden in Friesland als geslachtsnaam voorkomende); verder
M a r t e n v a n S t r a e s b o r c h (Straatsburg) en G e e r t v a n
D o r s t e n . Dit zijn allen namen van buitenlandsche plaatsen.
Binnenlandsche en bepaaldelijk Friesche plaatsen hebben
oorsprong gegeven aan de benamingen van J a c o b v a n
F r a n i c k e r, S y b e v a n H a l l u m , H e n r i c k v a n
Sloten, Jacop van Wyringen, Sywert van
H o l w e r t , J a c o b v a n S c a l s e n (Schalsum), J a n v a n
H o r e n , P e t e r v a n H a r l i n g e n en B e t t h i e v a n
S t a u e r e n . Ook [272]de namen van J a n H o l l a n d e r en H a n s
H e s s moeten tot deze afdeeling gerekend worden; misschien ook
die van C l a e s F l a m m i n g h (Vlaming?), en, in zekeren zin, ook
die van L e e u w e r d e r J e l l e (zie bladzijde 283), met die van
J a n v a n d e n G o u w k a m e r , een naam die ik niet nader
verklaren kan.

Allerlei andere woorden, soms als bijnamen en zelfs als spotnamen,

werden oudtijds ter nadere onderscheiding achter den eigenlijken
persoonsnaam gevoegd, en ook deze namen kregen veelvuldig de
geldigheid van ware maagschapsnamen. Als zoodanigen levert het
register de benamingen op van D i r c k S t e e n w e r p e r en van
G r y t h i e (G r i e t j e ) O n b e l e e f d , van J a n W y t b r o o t en
van J a n H o y s a c k . Verder M e s t e r G h y s b e r t S p a l m a n ,
M a t t h ij s B e c k , J a n R a t t a l e r , A r i e n B u s s c h u t (de
naam van een schutter, Schütze, die met een bus of buks, Büchse,
schiet). Eindelijk nog B e r n e r t L u c h t , H a n s C r u y s s c h a r ,
P e t e r T r a p en R o l o f G r y p .

Wat nu de vóórnamen op zich zelven aangaat, enkel uit een

taalkundig oogpunt beschouwd, zoo leveren de benamingen der
Oud-Leeuwarder ingezetenen, gelijk zij in het Register van den
Aanbreng voorkomen, ook nog menige bijzonderheid en
merkwaardigheid op.

Grootendeels zijn deze voornamen bijzonder Friesche namen, en de

zelfden die ook nog heden algemeen bij de Friezen in gebruik zijn.
Natuurlijk, wat hunne spelling aangaat, wijken zij eenigermate af van
de hedendaagsche rechtschrijving, en stemmen zij overeen met de
spelwijze, gelijk die omstreeks den jare 1500 in Friesland gebruikelijk
was: D u y f f in plaats van D u i f (D u i f j e ), T z a l i n g h in plaats
van T j a l l i n g , R e y n s c k voor R e i n s k e , G e r r y t en
H e y n d r i c k in stede van G e r r i t en H e n d r i k . De mansnamen
die thans in den regel op eene toonlooze e uitgaan, maar die in de
middeleeuwen op eene o, en toenmaals bij de Friezen bijzonderlijk
veelvuldig op eene a eindigden, worden in het Register bijna zonder
uitzondering reeds met eene e geschreven: E p e , G a b b e ,
M e n n e , H e t t e , W i l k e . Omstreeks den jare 1500 was daar
juist eene kentering in de Friesche taal; zij verloor hare oude, volle
vormen op a (an) en o (on), [273]niet enkel in de namen, maar
eveneens in de gemeene woorden, en nam daarvoor, op het
voetspoor der Nederduitsche (Hollandsche, Vlaamsche en
Brabantsche, en Nedersassische of Platduitsche) taalvormen van de
andere Nederlandsche gewesten en van Duitschland, eene
toonlooze e in de plaats. Het schijnt, dat in de stad Leeuwarden,
door vreemden invloed, ten jare 1500 en wat later, die kentering
reeds grootendeels haar beslag gekregen had. Maar in het Oud-
Friesch, gelijk dat toen nog ten platten lande in wezen was, bleven
ook de oude, volle taalvormen langer in gebruik. Zoo vinden wij in
onze registers de namen der dorpelingen nog veelvuldig met eene a
of met eene o geschreven: (A e s g a S y c k a z , dat is: E a s g e ,
S i k k e -zoon of S i k k e s , te Wirdum, en E g g a J e l l a z o e n te
Swichum; S a s k o o p d e D i c k te Blya, en B u w k o o p
W e s t e r f e l d e n te Holwert), terwijl dit te Leeuwarden nog maar
weinig voorkwam. De naamlijst vermeldt aldaar slechts een H a l b a
en een H a y a ; verder F o p p o , O c k o , J e l t o , enz. nevens
H a l b e en H a y e , F o p p e , O c k e , J e l t e en anderen.

Oude spelwijzen, bij voorbeeld ow in plaats van ou, treffen wij aan bij
de namen van D o w e , P o w e l s (P o u l u s , P a u l u s ), J o w k
w e d u e (J o u k j e ); tz in stede van het hedendaagsche tsj,
verhollandscht tot tj, bij T z a l i n g h , T z o m m e , T z e m
(Ts j a m , T j a m , T j a m m e , de weinig gebruikelijke mansnaam,
waarvan het meer gebruikelijke Ts j a m k e , T j a m k e , oudtijds
T z a m c k , de vrouwelijke vorm is). Verder ti (ty of thi en thy) in
plaats van tsj, tj bij de namen van T i e b b e (Ts j e b b e ,
T j e b b e ), T i e p k e (Ts j e p k e , T j e p k e , eigentlijk T j e b k e ),
T i e r c k (Ts j e r k , T j e r k ), T y e s s e en T h y e s s e (Ts j e s s e ,
T j e s s e ), T i a r d , T y a r d en T y a e r t (Ts j a e r d , T j a a r d ),
T y a l l e (Ts j a l l e , T j a l l e ), S y o u c k e (S j o u k e ) en H e r
S y w c k P e t e r s (S j u k ); en ae (dat verwarring oplevert met ae =
aa) in stede van ea, bij die van A e s g e , S a e c k l e , A e b b e
(E a b e ) en A e p k e (E a b k e ). In plaats van den uitgang ts (tz, ook
verhollandscht tot tj) vinden wij tie, tye, thie, thye geschreven, in
namen als M y n t h y e en R y n t h y e (M i n t s j e en R i n t s j e als
mansnamen), W a t t i e (W a t s e ), H a n t h i e , I n t h i e ,
G e e r t h i e , W y n t h i e voor H a n t s j e , I n t s j e of Y n t s j e ,
enz. Ook L u y t i e n en L u t h i e voor L u u t s e n , L u i t s e n ,
[274]L u u t s j e ; W y t h i e voor W y t s e ; D o y t h y e voor
D o a i t s e n ; bijzonderlijk ook J a y t h y e H i l b r a n t z , want deze
naam J a i t s j e of J a e i t s j e , J a i t j e of J a a i t j e is geen
vrouwennaam, maar een mansnaam, zooals blijkt uit de
aanteekening „Jaythye Hilbrantz van zijn wijff’s wegen”; en T y a t y e
M a r t e n a (Ts j a e d j e ? de kleine Ts j a d e ? of Ts j a e r d ?). I w ,
J u w en J o w k e met J o u k e , een en de zelfde naam (J o u is de
bijzonder Friesche vorm van den algemeen Germaanschen naam
I v o ) in verschillende spelling. S i r c k , Z i e r c k en S y r i c k voor
het hedendaagsch S i e r k of S j i r k , en S y w r d , S y o r d en
S y w o r d voor S j o e r d vertoonen ook geheel verouderde
schrijfwijzen, even als R e n i c k (R i e n k ), R i o e r d (R u u r d ),
L y w e (L i e u w e ) en anderen.

Ingekorte vrouwennamen, die in de middeleeuwen zoo veelvuldig,

schier algemeen in gebruik waren, en ook nu nog in geijkten zin te
Hindeloopen en elders in den Zuidhoek voorkomen, gelijk ze ook
overal in Friesland in de dagelijksche spreektaal nog in zwang zijn,
vinden wij vertegenwoordigd in namen als B e y t h s , W y t z ,
Bauck, Fokel, Sibbel, Doed, Tryn, Ath, Auck,
H y l c k , J e l , enz. In L y s c h staat de Hollandsche sch in plaats
van de Friesche sk: L y s k , L i s k , L y s k j e . Daarentegen vertoont
de vrouwennaam M e t t a (hedendaags M e t s j e ) juist den vollen,
ouden vorm.

Aanmerkelijk is ook een tamelijk groot getal oude namen, die heden
ten dage ten deele reeds geheel verouderd en uit der lieden gebruik
verdwenen zijn, ten deele ook zeer zeldzaam zijn geworden, of in
eenen vorm, met eenen klank voorkomen, dien wij hedendaags
anders hebben. Zulke namen zijn die van N e m c k w e d u e ,
tegenwoordig N a m k j e , en M e s t e r T z e m , thans Ts j a m ,
Ts j a m m o ; P e t r i c k , tegenwoordig de zeldzame vrouwennaam
P i e t r i k j e ; D o d e , hedendaags meestal D o e d e ; N a n n i c k en
H e l m i c h , W o l d en A y l e , H e d en P a e s c h e (P a e s k e =
P a s c h a s i u s ? een Kerkelijke naam), G a l e (de naam waarvan
de oude maagschapsnaam G a l a m a is afgeleid; hedendaags
meestal G e a l e ), L y o r k en R y p e r d (de naam die oorsprong gaf
aan den geslachtsnaam R i p p e r d a of R y p e r d a ), R o p k e
(R o b k e , verkleinvorm van R o b b e r t , R o d b r e c h t ?) en
L a n k e (in den maagschapsnaam L a n k e m a [275]en in den
plaatsnaam L a n k u m voorkomende) zijn ook verouderde
mansnamen en naamsvormen. Zij vinden hunne tegenhangers in
vrouwennamen als O e d , L y o e t s ook als L y o e t h s en als
L y o e d s voorkomende (heden ten dage L u t s , L u t s k e ), H e n ,
R o e l c k en D u y f f . Deze laatste naam eischt eenige toelichting.
D u i f , D u i f j e , in ouden vorm D u v e k e , was in de
middeleeuwen in Holland als vrouwenvóórnaam niet zeldzaam.
Nevens deze „D u y f f w e d u e ”, deze Leeuwarder vrouw van 1511,
is ons ook nog een Leeuwarder man bekend, die een
menschenleeftijd later leefde, en die eveneens D u i f heette bij
vóórnaam; te weten: D u y f f J e l l e s , ten jare 1582. 11 Het Friesche
woord voor het Hollandsche duif (vogel) is dou; en zoo komt ook de
Hollandsche mansnaam D u i f (D u y f f ) overeen met den Frieschen
mansnaam D o u w e , en de vrouwennaam D u i f j e (D u y f f ,
D u v e k e ) met D o u w t s e n of D o u t s j e . Nog heden zijn
D o u w e en D o u w t s e n algemeen gebruikelijke vóórnamen in
Friesland; maar eenen D u i f of eene D u i f j e is mij daar nooit te
voren gekomen, oud nochte nieuw—behalve dan bovengenoemde
twee te Leeuwarden, in de 16de eeuw. Ik vermoed dus dat wij deze
twee Duifnamen te beschouwen hebben als overzettingen in het
Hollandsch van de Friesche namen D o u w e en D o u w t s e n . Dat
de naam van den Fries D o u w e S i k k e s , die in de 15de eeuw
leefde, te dien tijde in het toen nog voor een deel Friesche Haarlem
als D o u S i x z (dou = duif, vogelnaam) werd geschreven, 12 kan
almede licht geven in deze zaak.

Vier bijzondere namen, die hier eene afzonderlijke vermelding en

nadere bespreking eischen, komen nog in de Leeuwarder naamlijst
voor. Het zijn twee mans- en twee vrouwennamen: G o d f r i o n d en
G e r n a n t , met L w d w en F o l z o w .

De eerstgenoemde, G o d f r i o n d (ook als G o d s f r j o n d ,

G o e d s f r e o n d , enz. voorkomende) 13 is een bij uitstek Friesche
[276]naam. Hij wordt ook in andere Friesche oorkonden van de 15de
en de 16de eeuw wel aangetroffen; maar nooit menigvuldig. Heden
ten dage zal er wel niemand meer zijn onder de Friezen, die zóó
heet. Mij althans is deze naam zoo min in de vorige eeuw, als bij het
thans levende geslacht te voren gekomen. In de 17de eeuw leefden
er in Friesland nog dragers van dezen naam. Immers de dichter
Gysbert Japicx geeft hem aan eene zijner verdichte
persoonlijkheden in zijn gedicht Tydkirttige pittear lânze wey
twissche Egge, Wynering in Goadsfrjuen. Ik noem dezen naam bij
uitstek Friesch, omdat hij samengezet is met een woord in zuiver
Frieschen vorm, met het woord frjeon, ook friund, frjon, frjeun en
frjuen geschreven, en dat vriend beteekent. Dus G o d s f r i u n d of
G o d s f r e o n d is te zeggen Gods vriend. In Holland, noch elders
bij eenig Germaansch volk, is mij nooit eenen mansdóópnaam
Godsvriend, Gottesfreund, Godsfriend
voorgekomen. De Friezen zijn eenig met dezen schoonen naam.
Trouwens, de Oud- en Algemeen-Germaansche mansvóórnaam
G o d s w i n beteekent geheel het zelfde als G o d s v r i e n d ,
naardien win (Oud-Hoogduitsch wini, Gothisch vinjis) in de Oud-
Germaansche talen de beduidenis van vriend had. In de
Skandinavische talen beteekent ven, vän (men spreke v = w) nog
heden vriend. En deze naam G o d s w i n , G o d e s w i n was
oudtijds ook den Friezen eigen, en komt onder de samengetrokkene,
versletene vormen G o e s w i n , G o e s e w y n , G o e s s e n ,
G o o s s e n wel voor (zie bl. 162). Waarschijnlijk is in de 15de eeuw
de Friesche naamsvorm G o d s f r e o n d opgekomen en in gebruik
genomen, als eene vernieuwing, als eene overzetting in nieuwen
taalvorm, toen men win = vriend, toen men den naam G o d s w i n
niet meer verstond.

De mansvóórnaam G e r n a n d , in ons register voorkomende als de

naam van den vader eener vrouw die met de patronymicale
benaming van T r y n G e r n a n t s bekend staat, is een zeer
bijzondere naam, die in zijn tweede samenstellend deel nand
verwant is aan de namen W i n a n d en F e r d i n a n d . Deze naam
schijnt bij de Germaansche volken steeds een zeer zeldzame
geweest te zijn. Dr. Ernst Förstemann in zijn Altdeutsches
Namenbuch vermeldt hem uit de 8ste, 9de en 10de eeuw; en
Bernhard Brons, in zijn werk Friesische Namen, vermeldt een
Gernand in Oost-Friesland, [277]in de 17de eeuw. En anders is deze
schoone en volledige naam mij nooit voorgekomen.

Wat nu de twee bijzondere vrouwenvóórnamen L w d w en F o l z o w

aangaat, moet ik vooraf opmerken dat er onder de bijzonder
Friesche namen eene kleine groep voorkomt van vrouwennamen,
die uitgaan op ou (ook geschreven ouw, au, en oudtijds wel uw of
enkel w); zie bl. 201. Deze namen, allen tamelijk zeldzaam,
sommigen zeer zeldzaam voorkomende, zijn:

J i l d o u (J i e l d o u , J e l d o u , J o l d o u ), de bekendste, al was
het maar omdat G a b e S c r o a r eene nicht had die zoo heette:
„n i f t J i e l d o u w , f e n A l d e g e a .”

M e i n o u en R e i n o u , tegenwoordig dikwijls verkeerdelijk als

M e i n o en R e i n o geschreven, en, met J i l d o u , niet zóó
zeldzaam als de volgenden:

Edou, Edouw.

Bernou, Bernw.

F a r d o u , ook F e r d o u , heden ten dage, bij misverstand, ook wel

F a r d o en F e r d o geschreven. Nog kort geleden leefde er eene
vrouw, F a r d o P i e t e r s B o e r s m a geheeten, te
Beetsterzwaag.

K e n o u , door de Hollanders meestal K e n a u geschreven, bekend

door K e n a u S i m o n s d o c h t e r H a s s e l a e r , de
Haarlemsche heldinne, in den tijd (16de eeuw) toen Haarlem nog
voor een goed deel Friesch was.

F e r k o u , M e r k o u of M e r c k w , G e l d o u en G a d o u ,
waarvan de eerste en de laatste door Leendertz in zijne naamlijst
(Navorscher XVIII) vermeld worden, maar die mij anders nooit zijn
voorgekomen. Eindelijk nog L u d o u , een naam die in de vorige
eeuw nog geenszins bijzonder zeldzaam was, en toen ook nog wel
in noordelijk Noord-Holland, onder anderen te Hoorn en aan de Zaan
voorkwam in den vorm L u y d u w . Deze naam L u d o u of
L u y d u w is de zelfde dien wij onder de Leeuwarder vrouwennamen
van 1511 als L w d w vinden opgeteekend. De spelwijze L w d w
moet een hedendaagsch Nederlandsch oog zekerlijk wel zeer
vreemd voorkomen. Maar deze bijzonderheid, ja schijnbare
ongerijmdheid verdwijnt, als men bedenkt dat de oude w eigentlijk
eene dubbele u is, zoo als zij dan ook nog in het Engelsch en in het
Friesch heet, en dat [278]de u, de v, de uu, de w oudtijds zoo wel den
klank van onze hedendaagsche Fransch-Nederlandsche u, als dien
van de Algemeen-Germaansche u = oe, en van ou (ow) had.

Vertegenwoordigt dus de 16de eeuwsche Leeuwarder L w d w geen

onbekende naam, dit is wel het geval met den vrouwenvóórnaam
F o l z o w , dien wij almede, bij de benaming van „F o l z o w
P i e r s ”, in ons register vinden. Mij althans en ook anderen
namenkenners en namenvorschers, bij wien ik onderzoek daar naar
gedaan heb, is de naam F o l z o w (F o l z o u ) nooit ontmoet. Het is
niettemin een oorbeeldig Friesche naam, die wis tot de groep der
ounamen behoort. Ik reken dezen naam zoo veel te meer als
bijzonder Friesch, omdat het eerste gedeelte van den naam den
bijzonder Frieschen vorm Folts vertoond, die in de 16de eeuw nog
volle gelding had, maar heden ten dage in het Friesch meest tot Folk
verloopen is. Immers de z van F o l z o u hebben wij zekerlijk voor
eene Hoogduitsche z = ts te houden, dus F o l t s o u ; en Folts = Folk
(ts = k, tserke = kerk) vinden wij terug in vele andere mans- en
vrouwenvóórnamen. Bij voorbeeld in F o l k e r t (F o l k h a r t ) waar
van de geslachtsnamen F o l k e r t s m a , F o l k e r d a en
F o l k r i n g a (F o l k h a r d i n g a ), met de plaatsnamen
F o l k e r d a - b u r c h t te Noordwolde bij Bedum in Hunsegoo,
F o l k e r t s w e e r , verdronken dorp in den D o l l a r t ,
F o l k e r s h u s e n , gehucht bij Seeriem in Harlingerland (Oost-
Friesland), F o l k e r t s w e r f , gehucht op de hallig Hooge in Noord-
Friesland, enz. afstammen. Verder F o l m e r , voluit F o l k m a r ;
F o l b e d , voluit F o l k b a l d , waarvan de oude maagschapsnaam
F o l k b a l d a , tot F o l b a d a , thans tot V o l b e d a verloopen;