Fanfic: For Your Entertainment, Rated R by House_of_Lantis
Title: For Your Entertainment (Part 1 of 3)
Author: house_of_lantis
Pairing: Adam/Kris, lots of Kradam RPS characters.
Rating: R, not too explicit.
Warnings: Sex, bloodplay.
Disclaimer: Not true, not mine; just borrowing Adam Lambert’s the title from his debut album “For Your Entertainment”; borrowing Kris Allen’s song titles from his album “Brand New Shoes”.
Original prompt #61: Kris Allen is forced to approach Adam Lambert, King of the Vampires in LA California to request a favor. Adam, attracted to Kris, grants the favor on the condition that Kris spend one night with him. Kris agrees, but Adam is unable to stop thinking about him after their single night of passion. Adam determines to find him and make Kris his . . . permanently.
Author’s Note: I’ve made some changes to the prompt to fit in my vampire!verse world.
Summary: Kris’s brother, David, owes a blood debt to a vampire and he’s run away leaving Kris as collateral. Vampire Elder Adam agrees to interfere on Kris’s behalf as a favor, but is Kris willing to pay the ultimate price?
*****
Part I: Real World
Los Angeles, California
Kris Allen knew he shouldn’t have gone so easily when the black Hummer rolled up to him as he was leaving the grocery store, but he didn’t have much of a choice when one of the vampires said that the Los Angeles vampire Elder, Adam Lambert, was requesting his presence - and it wasn’t so much a request but a politely worded order. Kris knew, as he stared at the four stoic vampires, that there was nothing he could do but to get in the vehicle.
He handed the bags of groceries to one of the vampires and watched as he placed it in the trunk. Another vampire opened the back door to the Hummer, waiting patiently for Kris to get in. He took a deep breath and stepped into the cool, dim interior. A moment later, a vampire slipped in on either side of him, easily trapping him inside the vehicle. It wasn’t like he could run or out run them.
“What’s this about, guys?”
Silence.
Kris cleared his throat. “I know you can tell, but I’m kind of freaking out here. If I did something wrong-“
“Mr Lambert has requested your presence before the court.”
He frowned. “The vampire court? Why?” He didn’t think he violated any of the vampire rules of the city. But if he did, he was going to man up, apologize, make amends, and put himself at the court’s mercy.
The vampires didn’t say anything more. Kris rubbed his hands over his knees and tried to look out the heavily tinted windows to the city outside. It looked like they were going to West Hollywood, the official seat of Los Angeles’s most powerful vampire.
Kris didn’t know much about LA or about the vampire Elder. He had come out to California from Arkansas a year ago, chasing a dream like so many others. He’d finally gotten work as a songwriter for an independent record label, BlueNote Records. He was slowly making a name for himself and he was grateful to learn the ins and outs of the recording industry, saving money for studio time to sing and record his own music.
He kept out of trouble; he made a couple of friends. He spent all of his free time writing. He couldn’t for the life of him think of what he could’ve done to warrant the attention of the vampire Elder. He knew that only the highest crimes were put before the vampire court. He felt his heart start to race, sweat pooling under his shirt, and he knew that the vampires could scent the fear rolling off of him.
The Lambert Residence was set on the highest point in West Hollywood, surrounded by a high wall and a foreboding black iron gate. Guards were stationed all along the walls and the gate. The vampire behind the wheel of the Hummer rolled the window down at the gate as the guard peered inside, looking at Kris for a moment, and motioning for the gate to open. The SUV came to a stop in front of the white stone mansion, the vampires exiting and waiting for Kris.
Kris got out of the vehicle and looked around the estate. Plush green lawns, low bushes, and palm trees were like an oasis on the grass. Kris noted that the white stone was actually marble; and he peered curiously inside the picture windows to see a variety of humans or vampires, some dressed in fashionable LA black, others dressed in colors that only a peacock would feel comfortable wearing.
The vampires led him into the house and Kris followed quietly, looking around the immaculate and minimalist surroundings. He was impressed with the high ceilings and he dazedly wondered about the acoustics and what live music would sound like in it.
Dozens of people lounged about the house, many of them were dressed ostentatiously, some of them wearing clothes that left nothing to the imagination. Kris felt underdressed in his plaid shirt, white tee, and jeans. They all turned to look at him, peering at him curiously, some openly leering at him, men and women - humans and vampires - all looking him over from head to toe. They whispered as he passed them, a few murmuring “fresh meat” and “I’d eat him” and another whispering “virgin blood”. He ran a nervous hand through his hair as they came to a set of high double doors.
The vampires opened the door and motioned for Kris to enter. He swallowed and nodded, taking a few steps inside. He looked up to find himself in a large white room, a single chair at the end of the room, set in front of a gorgeous masterpiece painting of vibrant colors in red and orange and blue, and picture windows lining one side of the entire room. It reminded him of the audience chambers of the castles he visited during his international missionary work. Well, he shouldn’t be surprised; a vampire city Elder was like royalty and he knew, in theory anyway, that some vampire leaders enjoyed the trappings of that kind of lifestyle.
A lone figure stood with his back turned to the room, gazing out the window overlooking the lawns.
Kris took a moment to look at - he assumed it was anyway - Adam Lambert, vampire city Elder of Los Angeles. He was tall, dressed in a fashionably cut suit, black hair artfully arranged and tinted with electric blue. His hands were clasped behind his back. Kris admired him, the long legs, the strong thighs, the broad shoulders. He knew it was stupid to develop a crush on a vampire Elder.
“Wait here,” one of the vampires told him, motioning to a stop just a few feet from the chair.
He nodded and stood still, his hands moving restlessly, not knowing where to put them. He stood loosely, wondering what they wanted with him. He watched as one of the vampires moved towards the city Elder and whispered something in his ear. Adam nodded and murmured something back. The vampires moved to the sides of the room, unobtrusive, but there, guarding.
Kris made a soft sound of surprise when the vampire Elder moved away from the window, walking towards him. He blinked, watching as the vampire approached, every cell in his body screaming at him to run out of the room, to run away from him. Instead, he took a deep breath and held his place, keeping his eyes on the vampire.
Adam Lambert was nothing like Kris expected. He looked just a few years older than Kris but he knew that the vampire’s true age was probably much older, his eyes were blue, lined with kohl, and his lips were pale pink. His black suit was a mix of formal and eclectic touches. Were those…feathers? He found that he had to raise his chin, revealing his neck, to keep eye contact with the vampire. Up close, the city Elder was all roiling sexuality and…intimidating.
“Are you offering?” Adam said, amused. He took a deep breath, scenting Kris, and smirked, raising his eyebrow. “Because I accept.”
Kris shook his head quickly, his eyes widening. “You’re just really tall…umm…sir?”
“Wonderful manners, but we don’t stand on formality here.” Adam chuckled, his voice soft and musical. He gave Kris a long look and Kris dropped his eyes, fighting the blush that was creeping up his face.
“I’m Adam Lambert, city Elder of Los Angeles. Welcome to my home, Kristopher Allen,” he said, soothingly.
“Just Kris,” he said, nodding at him. “I, uh…thanks for inviting me but I really don’t know why I’m here.”
Adam pursed his lips slightly, staring at Kris. He turned, walked to the chair and sat down with his booted feet firmly planted on the floor, legs spread wide, a loose and sexy sprawl that was decadent and, Kris thought, a little naughty. The vampire grinned at him and Kris averted his gaze, looking up at the large painting behind Adam. He realized that it wasn’t just an abstract painting, up close it was shadows of nude men, uh, engaged in a variety of interesting positions. He was curious about some of them; he didn’t think they existed outside porn.
Adam chuckled. “I can tell that you like it.”
“It’s, um, interesting.”
“Really?”
Kris was starting to think that maybe Adam could read the thoughts going through his mind. He swallowed, beating down the flush of arousal, and tried to present himself in a dignified manner.
Kris met his eyes. “Did you invite me here to talk about art or did you have another reason?”
Adam leaned his elbow on the armrest, his hand propping up the side of his face. Kris noted the multiple jeweled rings that the vampire wore on both hands. He gazed at Kris thoughtfully, eyes focused on him.
“Where is your brother?”
“David?” Kris said, puzzled. “He’s…somewhere in the city, I guess? I haven’t really talked to him in a few days. I work really odd hours so we kind of miss each other.” He looked at Adam, alarmed. “Is something wrong with David? Is he in some kind of trouble? I can-“
The doors slammed open and Kris turned to see three vampires stalking down the room towards them.
“Is that him?” The vampire hissed, pointing at Kris. “I demand payment!”
He was tall and thin, his head shaved, and an old scar running down from the top of his head, down his cheek, to his chin. He wore black leather and Kris caught a glimpse of the gun in the holster by his side. Kris moved a few steps to the side, but he held his ground.
Adam stood up, moving in front of Kris. “You come into my home and before this court and raise your voice at me?” His voice was silky but menacing. “Protocol demands that I ask my questions before passing my judgment on your request.”
“My apologies. You have to understand that I have a reputation and a business to protect. I can’t let anyone just walk over me without paying the consequences.”
Adam nodded. “Raoul, be calm. I haven’t started my questioning. You may stay in the room but you will be silent until I’m finished.”
The three vampires acquiesced with a slight bow and moved to the side of the room. They all stared at Kris, a mixture of contempt, want and bloodlust on their faces. He wanted to just sink into the ground and disappear. Adam turned and smiled at Kris. He moved to sit down in his chair again and Kris took a deep breath, looking at the vampire.
“Is this about David?”
Adam nodded. “Your brother owes a great deal in gambling debts.” Kris stared at him, shaking his head. “I see that you’re not aware of his problems. In the past year, he’s racked up $78,000 to Raoul.” He motioned to the vampire glaring at Kris. “His marker came due last week; a blood debt that needs to be paid. Do you know what that is, Kris?”
“No,” he whispered, shocked to the core. David, what have you gotten yourself into?
“It’s a fine line, Kris, when a human offers their blood as payment on a debt. Contracts are ratified by both sides and held by a neutral party. If the debt cannot be paid with money, then the marker comes due and blood is given.”
“My God, that’s…monstrous.”
Adam raised his eyebrow, blue eyes narrowing on him. “Some would say; but it isn’t illegal. However, the terms of David’s contract with Raoul are unusual. Kris, your brother offered your blood as collateral if he couldn’t settle his financial debts.”
“What?“
“David has already given the maximum a human can give as blood payment on his debts. And now, he seems to have disappeared. Raoul came to the court to seek the proper settlement on the debt, which he is entitled to according to our laws,” Adam said, leaning forward in his chair and looking at Kris. “Do you have anything to say?”
“I can’t believe…my brother wouldn’t…” Kris closed his eyes and bit his lip. “I can’t pay the money back, I can barely scrape enough together to just pay my rent.” He looked at Adam, trembling slightly. “How…much blood is that…what do I do?”
“For the debt owed?” Adam looked at Raoul and then back at Kris again. “A pint of blood for every thousand dollars.”
Kris stared at Raoul, who grinned at him, licking his lips.
“That’s impossible.“
“Seventy eight pints of your blood, Kris,” Adam murmured, watching him thoughtfully. “Not all at once, of course. If he caused your death during the payment of the blood debt, his life is forfeit.”
“I…is there another way to…don’t I get a choice? I never agreed to that.”
“I am sorry, Kris, that your brother put you in this position without your consent,” Adam said, softly. He spread his hands and leaned back in the chair, taking a deep breath. “But, I am also bound by the same laws; a breach of contract of this magnitude would force me to…”
“You’d have to kill me.”
“I won’t let it come to that.”
Kris stared at him for a long moment and then closed his eyes. “I don’t think I can do this, Adam.”
“His life is forfeit!” Raoul shouted, gleefully.
“Get them out of here!” Adam hissed, fiercely, his blue eyes glowing deeply. The vampires guarding the room moved in on Raoul and the other two vampires, pulling them out of the room.
“My contract is valid in the eyes of the law! I demand my blood payment!”
Adam sat back on his chair, a hand moving down his face, tiredly. “I think that my Primogenitor must be laughing at me, times like this.” He grimaced and then looked up at Kris. “When I took over the city ten years ago, I thought it was going to be such a delicious thing to be in charge of everything and everyone. Robert was so conventional and…” He laughed, softly. “So conservative and boring. I thought that when I became the city Elder, I’d really shake things up, give more freedom to the vampires. But I play these political games more and more each day; so it’s refreshing for me when I encounter someone who doesn’t play games and doesn’t know that they have the ability to ask the city Elder for one favor.”
Kris clenched his hands into fists. “I don’t understand.”
Adam grinned and stood, taking a few steps to stand in front of Kris. “Ask me for a favor, Kris. Ask me to pay the financial debt and conclude the contract on your behalf.”
“Why would you do that? I don’t have anything that I can give to you. I can’t pay you back.”
Kris froze, holding his breath as Adam reached up with his hand, gently stroking his fingers down Kris’s cheek.
“I’m sure we can come to a suitable agreement.”
“What do you want?” Kris said, softly.
“Do you really think I’m a monster?”
“What? No. No, I don’t-“ He protested, eyes widening.
“Shhh…” Adam said, pressing his thumb against Kris’s bottom lip, the tip pushing in just slightly, teasing. Kris didn’t know that he had licked the pad of Adam’s finger until the vampire hissed, blue eyes glowing slightly, and stepping closer to him. “I want you for 24 hours. You’ll stay here with me; you’ll be mine. And then you’ll leave, all debts cleared.”
“You mean…”
“Sex and blood.” He said, stroking his thumb across Kris’s bottom lip, back and forth, slowly, scratching gently with the edge of his thumb nail.
Kris shivered at the vampire’s cool touch. “I don’t think I can do this.”
Adam’s hand slipped behind Kris’s head, fingers moving into his short hair, tilting back his head to look into his eyes. “A vampire’s bite can be intense pleasure and pain. I promise not to hurt you beyond what you can endure.”
He swallowed, mouth dry, body shaking. He was panting softly, reacting to Adam’s touch and the sound of his voice. Adam’s hand curled around the front of Kris’s neck, thumb under his chin, tilting back his head. He let out a soft whimper as Adam bent close to kiss him. He jerked against the vampire, his cock hardening as Adam’s cool lips moved against his, tongue slipping between his lips, tasting him slowly and completely. When Kris tried to pull away, the hand tightened on his throat a little, the rings digging into his skin, and Kris groaned into Adam’s mouth, hands clutching at his arms. He could feel his blood rushing in his ears, his heartbeat drumming against Adam’s palm.
Adam murmured against his cheek, lips sliding to his ear, nipping at the earlobe before licking the long expanse of his neck. Kris tried to move, but Adam gripped his hair, keeping him still, the deft tongue sliding against his overheated skin.
“Just 24 hours of your time, Kris, all debts cleared,” Adam whispered into his ear, his other hand moving to Kris’s waist, holding him close. “Ask me for the favor and I’ll give you everything you want.”
“Why?”
Adam smiled, his eyes crinkling at the edges as he looked at Kris. “Did you really think I’d let you leave this house without tasting you?”
Kris bit his lip, trying to pull himself together. “Adam, I-“
I can’t do this.
I’m not into vampires.
Once this was over and he found his brother, he would have some words about offering Kris up as blood debt collateral. He was so angry at David, but first, he had to get that debt cleared. But he didn’t know if he could just offer himself up like that to the vampire. He had never been intimate with a vampire before; and even though he felt a sharp thrill in the pit of his stomach that was starting to heat him up at the core, Kris didn’t know he could go through with this.
“Let me help you, Kris; let me enjoy your company for just a short time.” Adam said, sincerely. “I promise to let you go; and you’ll have the protection and favor of a city Elder for the rest of your human life.”
I’m scared out of my mind.
I have to help my brother.
“Okay,” he said, his voice strained and choked. He looked into Adam’s glowing eyes, praying that he was doing the right thing. “Okay.”
***
Kris stood off to the side as Raoul entered the room alone. He sneered, his eyes moving up and down Kris in a way that made him feel nothing but disgust for the scarred vampire. Adam was sitting in his chair, but the sprawl was gone and he sat straight, very much like a king, hands resting on the arms of the chair.
From a side door, another vampire stepped into the room. He carried a black leather folder in his hand. He was short, with dark hair, and was dressed in a very modern and very sapphire blue suit. Kris was amazed that anyone could pull it off, but this vampire had the attitude in spades to do it. He came to a stop beside Adam, leaning a slim hip against the edge of the chair in a way that spoke of closeness and familiarity.
“Hello, sweetheart, you sent for me?” He drawled with a soft twang, his angular face all cheekbones and lips.
Adam rolled his eyes, but he couldn’t stop the small grin that formed on his lips as he looked at the other vampire. “Raoul, this is Bradley Bell, my Consigliere Personale. I’ve come to a decision on your settlement request. Kris has asked me for a favor to pay the debt, free and clear, and I’ve decided to accept and honor it.”
“A favor? Really?” Bradley said, turning dark eyes to look at Kris for the first time since he entered the room. “He’s exactly your type.”
“Shhh! Not now, Brad.”
Brad clucked his tongue, giving Kris the once over. “He’s cute enough.”
“Adam, I’m owed what I’m due-“
“You’re owed $78,000 in gambling debts,” Adam said, sharply. He leaned forward to look at the other vampire. “I can easily null and void the entire contract as a favor to Kris.” He frowned, tilting his chin up so he stared at Raoul with narrowed eyes. “I have put him and his bloodline under my protection so that if you or anyone else ever came after Kris’s family, your lives would be forfeit and your entire bloodline would be forfeit with you.”
Kris held his breath. The tension was thick in the room; he didn’t need vampire senses to know that. He didn’t know what all of that meant in the vampire world, but he was smart enough to infer that it was pretty heavy business.
“Think carefully, darling,” Bradley said to Raoul, his voice bored. “I’ve seen Adam decimate entire bloodlines for just insulting his hair so imagine what he’d do to you and yours if you decided to ignore his very generous offer.”
Raoul stared at them and then turned to look at Kris. He bared his teeth, showing his fangs.
“I am losing my patience, Raoul. Bradley will pay you out and you will go on your way. Don’t do business with David Allen again; in fact, stay away from both of them,” Adam intoned, growling slightly.
Raoul licked his lips, his eyes dark and narrowed in fury; he sniffed rudely at Kris and then turned to look at Adam. He spoke with his teeth clenched and an ugly smile on his face. “I accept your generous terms and agree that the contract is concluded.”
“Fabulous,” Bradley said, opening his black leather folder and scrawling quickly. He carefully ripped out the check and handed it over to Raoul. “Don’t spend it all in one place, sweetie.”
Adam nodded at Raoul, watching carefully as the vampire stared at the check, then at Kris, and then back at the city Elder. He bowed slowly and turned, stalking out of the room.
Kris let out a sigh of relief. He watched as Adam and Bradley spoke quietly, both of them looking at Kris. He shifted on his feet, feeling exposed and nervous. What in the world did he just agree to? A couple of kisses and he was ready to sink to his knees-
“Kris, this is Brad.”
“Call me Cheeks,” Brad said, holding out his hand. Kris shook it and was taken by surprise when Brad pulled him closer. He pressed his nose against Kris’s neck and inhaled deeply. “Hmmm, Adam, he’s my favorite flavor. Can I have a little?”
“Brad.”
“Just a nibble? I won’t leave a mark, I swear; and you like to share,” Brad insisted, grinning up at Adam.
Adam simply raised his eyebrow.
Kris finally pulled his hand from Brad’s grip and he tucked both of his hands into his pockets. “I, uh, guess that the terms of the favor start, uh, now?”
“Looking forward to it, huh?” Brad said, snickering. “I’m surprised his highness over here hasn’t put you in his pocket and ran upstairs with you already.”
Adam smacked the back of Brad’s head. “Manners!”
Brad gave him a narrowed look, pursing his lips. “Well, I’m just saying that your ability to stay in control is unusual and worth mentioning.”
“It is not,” Adam said, gruffly. “Ignore him, Kris, I do most of the time.”
Kris grinned as Brad rolled his eyes and gave a dramatic sigh. “The honeymoon is over.”
Adam snorted, shaking his head. “The honeymoon was over like 48 years ago.”
“Details,” Brad said, waving his hand.
Kris found that he liked Brad immediately. Unlike Adam, there was nothing intimidating about him. He wondered what kind of human man he was before he was blood turned. Obviously, he was someone worthy of Adam’s attention for all those decades. Kris knew only the basics of vampires and vampire history. His parents sent him to a mixed school and Kris had a couple of vampire friends back home. But he didn’t know very much about vampire society. He didn’t know all the rules and every city Elder ran his or her city with different laws and societal rules. Adam Lambert was certainly the most glamorous vampire Kris had ever met; he was intrigued by him…and a lot turned on as well. He blushed when Adam and Brad both scented him. Adam’s expression became soft, a small grin on his face; while Brad’s smirk deepened and he gave Kris a very knowing look.
“Ohhhh, Adam, he’s scrumptious. I think a little of that was directed at me.”
“Behave,” Adam growled at Brad and then smiled at Kris. “I’ll have one of the boys take you to your apartment so that you can pack an overnight bag. What kind of a host would I be if I didn’t allow for your comfort?”
“The kind of host that prefers his boys to remain naked-ouch! Really, Adam, this kind of abuse is unnecessary!” Brad said, stroking the back of his head, glaring up at the city Elder. “I’m calling domestic abuse!”
“Brad!”
“Fine,” Brad said, puckering his lips at Adam and giving him a smile. “Welcome to glam nation, Kristopher Allen, may you enjoy your stay.”
“Thanks, I guess.”
Adam placed his hand on Kris’s neck, caressing him gently. “I’ll see you soon. Don’t worry, everything is going to be fine. You’re my honored guest in the mansion; no one would touch you.”
No one would touch him…without Adam’s permission. He could read between the lines now; he understood very clearly what that vampire smile meant now.
***
Author: house_of_lantis
Pairing: Adam/Kris, lots of Kradam RPS characters.
Rating: R, not too explicit.
Warnings: Sex, bloodplay.
Disclaimer: Not true, not mine; just borrowing Adam Lambert’s the title from his debut album “For Your Entertainment”; borrowing Kris Allen’s song titles from his album “Brand New Shoes”.
Original prompt #61: Kris Allen is forced to approach Adam Lambert, King of the Vampires in LA California to request a favor. Adam, attracted to Kris, grants the favor on the condition that Kris spend one night with him. Kris agrees, but Adam is unable to stop thinking about him after their single night of passion. Adam determines to find him and make Kris his . . . permanently.
Author’s Note: I’ve made some changes to the prompt to fit in my vampire!verse world.
Summary: Kris’s brother, David, owes a blood debt to a vampire and he’s run away leaving Kris as collateral. Vampire Elder Adam agrees to interfere on Kris’s behalf as a favor, but is Kris willing to pay the ultimate price?
*****
Part I: Real World
Los Angeles, California
Kris Allen knew he shouldn’t have gone so easily when the black Hummer rolled up to him as he was leaving the grocery store, but he didn’t have much of a choice when one of the vampires said that the Los Angeles vampire Elder, Adam Lambert, was requesting his presence - and it wasn’t so much a request but a politely worded order. Kris knew, as he stared at the four stoic vampires, that there was nothing he could do but to get in the vehicle.
He handed the bags of groceries to one of the vampires and watched as he placed it in the trunk. Another vampire opened the back door to the Hummer, waiting patiently for Kris to get in. He took a deep breath and stepped into the cool, dim interior. A moment later, a vampire slipped in on either side of him, easily trapping him inside the vehicle. It wasn’t like he could run or out run them.
“What’s this about, guys?”
Silence.
Kris cleared his throat. “I know you can tell, but I’m kind of freaking out here. If I did something wrong-“
“Mr Lambert has requested your presence before the court.”
He frowned. “The vampire court? Why?” He didn’t think he violated any of the vampire rules of the city. But if he did, he was going to man up, apologize, make amends, and put himself at the court’s mercy.
The vampires didn’t say anything more. Kris rubbed his hands over his knees and tried to look out the heavily tinted windows to the city outside. It looked like they were going to West Hollywood, the official seat of Los Angeles’s most powerful vampire.
Kris didn’t know much about LA or about the vampire Elder. He had come out to California from Arkansas a year ago, chasing a dream like so many others. He’d finally gotten work as a songwriter for an independent record label, BlueNote Records. He was slowly making a name for himself and he was grateful to learn the ins and outs of the recording industry, saving money for studio time to sing and record his own music.
He kept out of trouble; he made a couple of friends. He spent all of his free time writing. He couldn’t for the life of him think of what he could’ve done to warrant the attention of the vampire Elder. He knew that only the highest crimes were put before the vampire court. He felt his heart start to race, sweat pooling under his shirt, and he knew that the vampires could scent the fear rolling off of him.
The Lambert Residence was set on the highest point in West Hollywood, surrounded by a high wall and a foreboding black iron gate. Guards were stationed all along the walls and the gate. The vampire behind the wheel of the Hummer rolled the window down at the gate as the guard peered inside, looking at Kris for a moment, and motioning for the gate to open. The SUV came to a stop in front of the white stone mansion, the vampires exiting and waiting for Kris.
Kris got out of the vehicle and looked around the estate. Plush green lawns, low bushes, and palm trees were like an oasis on the grass. Kris noted that the white stone was actually marble; and he peered curiously inside the picture windows to see a variety of humans or vampires, some dressed in fashionable LA black, others dressed in colors that only a peacock would feel comfortable wearing.
The vampires led him into the house and Kris followed quietly, looking around the immaculate and minimalist surroundings. He was impressed with the high ceilings and he dazedly wondered about the acoustics and what live music would sound like in it.
Dozens of people lounged about the house, many of them were dressed ostentatiously, some of them wearing clothes that left nothing to the imagination. Kris felt underdressed in his plaid shirt, white tee, and jeans. They all turned to look at him, peering at him curiously, some openly leering at him, men and women - humans and vampires - all looking him over from head to toe. They whispered as he passed them, a few murmuring “fresh meat” and “I’d eat him” and another whispering “virgin blood”. He ran a nervous hand through his hair as they came to a set of high double doors.
The vampires opened the door and motioned for Kris to enter. He swallowed and nodded, taking a few steps inside. He looked up to find himself in a large white room, a single chair at the end of the room, set in front of a gorgeous masterpiece painting of vibrant colors in red and orange and blue, and picture windows lining one side of the entire room. It reminded him of the audience chambers of the castles he visited during his international missionary work. Well, he shouldn’t be surprised; a vampire city Elder was like royalty and he knew, in theory anyway, that some vampire leaders enjoyed the trappings of that kind of lifestyle.
A lone figure stood with his back turned to the room, gazing out the window overlooking the lawns.
Kris took a moment to look at - he assumed it was anyway - Adam Lambert, vampire city Elder of Los Angeles. He was tall, dressed in a fashionably cut suit, black hair artfully arranged and tinted with electric blue. His hands were clasped behind his back. Kris admired him, the long legs, the strong thighs, the broad shoulders. He knew it was stupid to develop a crush on a vampire Elder.
“Wait here,” one of the vampires told him, motioning to a stop just a few feet from the chair.
He nodded and stood still, his hands moving restlessly, not knowing where to put them. He stood loosely, wondering what they wanted with him. He watched as one of the vampires moved towards the city Elder and whispered something in his ear. Adam nodded and murmured something back. The vampires moved to the sides of the room, unobtrusive, but there, guarding.
Kris made a soft sound of surprise when the vampire Elder moved away from the window, walking towards him. He blinked, watching as the vampire approached, every cell in his body screaming at him to run out of the room, to run away from him. Instead, he took a deep breath and held his place, keeping his eyes on the vampire.
Adam Lambert was nothing like Kris expected. He looked just a few years older than Kris but he knew that the vampire’s true age was probably much older, his eyes were blue, lined with kohl, and his lips were pale pink. His black suit was a mix of formal and eclectic touches. Were those…feathers? He found that he had to raise his chin, revealing his neck, to keep eye contact with the vampire. Up close, the city Elder was all roiling sexuality and…intimidating.
“Are you offering?” Adam said, amused. He took a deep breath, scenting Kris, and smirked, raising his eyebrow. “Because I accept.”
Kris shook his head quickly, his eyes widening. “You’re just really tall…umm…sir?”
“Wonderful manners, but we don’t stand on formality here.” Adam chuckled, his voice soft and musical. He gave Kris a long look and Kris dropped his eyes, fighting the blush that was creeping up his face.
“I’m Adam Lambert, city Elder of Los Angeles. Welcome to my home, Kristopher Allen,” he said, soothingly.
“Just Kris,” he said, nodding at him. “I, uh…thanks for inviting me but I really don’t know why I’m here.”
Adam pursed his lips slightly, staring at Kris. He turned, walked to the chair and sat down with his booted feet firmly planted on the floor, legs spread wide, a loose and sexy sprawl that was decadent and, Kris thought, a little naughty. The vampire grinned at him and Kris averted his gaze, looking up at the large painting behind Adam. He realized that it wasn’t just an abstract painting, up close it was shadows of nude men, uh, engaged in a variety of interesting positions. He was curious about some of them; he didn’t think they existed outside porn.
Adam chuckled. “I can tell that you like it.”
“It’s, um, interesting.”
“Really?”
Kris was starting to think that maybe Adam could read the thoughts going through his mind. He swallowed, beating down the flush of arousal, and tried to present himself in a dignified manner.
Kris met his eyes. “Did you invite me here to talk about art or did you have another reason?”
Adam leaned his elbow on the armrest, his hand propping up the side of his face. Kris noted the multiple jeweled rings that the vampire wore on both hands. He gazed at Kris thoughtfully, eyes focused on him.
“Where is your brother?”
“David?” Kris said, puzzled. “He’s…somewhere in the city, I guess? I haven’t really talked to him in a few days. I work really odd hours so we kind of miss each other.” He looked at Adam, alarmed. “Is something wrong with David? Is he in some kind of trouble? I can-“
The doors slammed open and Kris turned to see three vampires stalking down the room towards them.
“Is that him?” The vampire hissed, pointing at Kris. “I demand payment!”
He was tall and thin, his head shaved, and an old scar running down from the top of his head, down his cheek, to his chin. He wore black leather and Kris caught a glimpse of the gun in the holster by his side. Kris moved a few steps to the side, but he held his ground.
Adam stood up, moving in front of Kris. “You come into my home and before this court and raise your voice at me?” His voice was silky but menacing. “Protocol demands that I ask my questions before passing my judgment on your request.”
“My apologies. You have to understand that I have a reputation and a business to protect. I can’t let anyone just walk over me without paying the consequences.”
Adam nodded. “Raoul, be calm. I haven’t started my questioning. You may stay in the room but you will be silent until I’m finished.”
The three vampires acquiesced with a slight bow and moved to the side of the room. They all stared at Kris, a mixture of contempt, want and bloodlust on their faces. He wanted to just sink into the ground and disappear. Adam turned and smiled at Kris. He moved to sit down in his chair again and Kris took a deep breath, looking at the vampire.
“Is this about David?”
Adam nodded. “Your brother owes a great deal in gambling debts.” Kris stared at him, shaking his head. “I see that you’re not aware of his problems. In the past year, he’s racked up $78,000 to Raoul.” He motioned to the vampire glaring at Kris. “His marker came due last week; a blood debt that needs to be paid. Do you know what that is, Kris?”
“No,” he whispered, shocked to the core. David, what have you gotten yourself into?
“It’s a fine line, Kris, when a human offers their blood as payment on a debt. Contracts are ratified by both sides and held by a neutral party. If the debt cannot be paid with money, then the marker comes due and blood is given.”
“My God, that’s…monstrous.”
Adam raised his eyebrow, blue eyes narrowing on him. “Some would say; but it isn’t illegal. However, the terms of David’s contract with Raoul are unusual. Kris, your brother offered your blood as collateral if he couldn’t settle his financial debts.”
“What?“
“David has already given the maximum a human can give as blood payment on his debts. And now, he seems to have disappeared. Raoul came to the court to seek the proper settlement on the debt, which he is entitled to according to our laws,” Adam said, leaning forward in his chair and looking at Kris. “Do you have anything to say?”
“I can’t believe…my brother wouldn’t…” Kris closed his eyes and bit his lip. “I can’t pay the money back, I can barely scrape enough together to just pay my rent.” He looked at Adam, trembling slightly. “How…much blood is that…what do I do?”
“For the debt owed?” Adam looked at Raoul and then back at Kris again. “A pint of blood for every thousand dollars.”
Kris stared at Raoul, who grinned at him, licking his lips.
“That’s impossible.“
“Seventy eight pints of your blood, Kris,” Adam murmured, watching him thoughtfully. “Not all at once, of course. If he caused your death during the payment of the blood debt, his life is forfeit.”
“I…is there another way to…don’t I get a choice? I never agreed to that.”
“I am sorry, Kris, that your brother put you in this position without your consent,” Adam said, softly. He spread his hands and leaned back in the chair, taking a deep breath. “But, I am also bound by the same laws; a breach of contract of this magnitude would force me to…”
“You’d have to kill me.”
“I won’t let it come to that.”
Kris stared at him for a long moment and then closed his eyes. “I don’t think I can do this, Adam.”
“His life is forfeit!” Raoul shouted, gleefully.
“Get them out of here!” Adam hissed, fiercely, his blue eyes glowing deeply. The vampires guarding the room moved in on Raoul and the other two vampires, pulling them out of the room.
“My contract is valid in the eyes of the law! I demand my blood payment!”
Adam sat back on his chair, a hand moving down his face, tiredly. “I think that my Primogenitor must be laughing at me, times like this.” He grimaced and then looked up at Kris. “When I took over the city ten years ago, I thought it was going to be such a delicious thing to be in charge of everything and everyone. Robert was so conventional and…” He laughed, softly. “So conservative and boring. I thought that when I became the city Elder, I’d really shake things up, give more freedom to the vampires. But I play these political games more and more each day; so it’s refreshing for me when I encounter someone who doesn’t play games and doesn’t know that they have the ability to ask the city Elder for one favor.”
Kris clenched his hands into fists. “I don’t understand.”
Adam grinned and stood, taking a few steps to stand in front of Kris. “Ask me for a favor, Kris. Ask me to pay the financial debt and conclude the contract on your behalf.”
“Why would you do that? I don’t have anything that I can give to you. I can’t pay you back.”
Kris froze, holding his breath as Adam reached up with his hand, gently stroking his fingers down Kris’s cheek.
“I’m sure we can come to a suitable agreement.”
“What do you want?” Kris said, softly.
“Do you really think I’m a monster?”
“What? No. No, I don’t-“ He protested, eyes widening.
“Shhh…” Adam said, pressing his thumb against Kris’s bottom lip, the tip pushing in just slightly, teasing. Kris didn’t know that he had licked the pad of Adam’s finger until the vampire hissed, blue eyes glowing slightly, and stepping closer to him. “I want you for 24 hours. You’ll stay here with me; you’ll be mine. And then you’ll leave, all debts cleared.”
“You mean…”
“Sex and blood.” He said, stroking his thumb across Kris’s bottom lip, back and forth, slowly, scratching gently with the edge of his thumb nail.
Kris shivered at the vampire’s cool touch. “I don’t think I can do this.”
Adam’s hand slipped behind Kris’s head, fingers moving into his short hair, tilting back his head to look into his eyes. “A vampire’s bite can be intense pleasure and pain. I promise not to hurt you beyond what you can endure.”
He swallowed, mouth dry, body shaking. He was panting softly, reacting to Adam’s touch and the sound of his voice. Adam’s hand curled around the front of Kris’s neck, thumb under his chin, tilting back his head. He let out a soft whimper as Adam bent close to kiss him. He jerked against the vampire, his cock hardening as Adam’s cool lips moved against his, tongue slipping between his lips, tasting him slowly and completely. When Kris tried to pull away, the hand tightened on his throat a little, the rings digging into his skin, and Kris groaned into Adam’s mouth, hands clutching at his arms. He could feel his blood rushing in his ears, his heartbeat drumming against Adam’s palm.
Adam murmured against his cheek, lips sliding to his ear, nipping at the earlobe before licking the long expanse of his neck. Kris tried to move, but Adam gripped his hair, keeping him still, the deft tongue sliding against his overheated skin.
“Just 24 hours of your time, Kris, all debts cleared,” Adam whispered into his ear, his other hand moving to Kris’s waist, holding him close. “Ask me for the favor and I’ll give you everything you want.”
“Why?”
Adam smiled, his eyes crinkling at the edges as he looked at Kris. “Did you really think I’d let you leave this house without tasting you?”
Kris bit his lip, trying to pull himself together. “Adam, I-“
I can’t do this.
I’m not into vampires.
Once this was over and he found his brother, he would have some words about offering Kris up as blood debt collateral. He was so angry at David, but first, he had to get that debt cleared. But he didn’t know if he could just offer himself up like that to the vampire. He had never been intimate with a vampire before; and even though he felt a sharp thrill in the pit of his stomach that was starting to heat him up at the core, Kris didn’t know he could go through with this.
“Let me help you, Kris; let me enjoy your company for just a short time.” Adam said, sincerely. “I promise to let you go; and you’ll have the protection and favor of a city Elder for the rest of your human life.”
I’m scared out of my mind.
I have to help my brother.
“Okay,” he said, his voice strained and choked. He looked into Adam’s glowing eyes, praying that he was doing the right thing. “Okay.”
***
Kris stood off to the side as Raoul entered the room alone. He sneered, his eyes moving up and down Kris in a way that made him feel nothing but disgust for the scarred vampire. Adam was sitting in his chair, but the sprawl was gone and he sat straight, very much like a king, hands resting on the arms of the chair.
From a side door, another vampire stepped into the room. He carried a black leather folder in his hand. He was short, with dark hair, and was dressed in a very modern and very sapphire blue suit. Kris was amazed that anyone could pull it off, but this vampire had the attitude in spades to do it. He came to a stop beside Adam, leaning a slim hip against the edge of the chair in a way that spoke of closeness and familiarity.
“Hello, sweetheart, you sent for me?” He drawled with a soft twang, his angular face all cheekbones and lips.
Adam rolled his eyes, but he couldn’t stop the small grin that formed on his lips as he looked at the other vampire. “Raoul, this is Bradley Bell, my Consigliere Personale. I’ve come to a decision on your settlement request. Kris has asked me for a favor to pay the debt, free and clear, and I’ve decided to accept and honor it.”
“A favor? Really?” Bradley said, turning dark eyes to look at Kris for the first time since he entered the room. “He’s exactly your type.”
“Shhh! Not now, Brad.”
Brad clucked his tongue, giving Kris the once over. “He’s cute enough.”
“Adam, I’m owed what I’m due-“
“You’re owed $78,000 in gambling debts,” Adam said, sharply. He leaned forward to look at the other vampire. “I can easily null and void the entire contract as a favor to Kris.” He frowned, tilting his chin up so he stared at Raoul with narrowed eyes. “I have put him and his bloodline under my protection so that if you or anyone else ever came after Kris’s family, your lives would be forfeit and your entire bloodline would be forfeit with you.”
Kris held his breath. The tension was thick in the room; he didn’t need vampire senses to know that. He didn’t know what all of that meant in the vampire world, but he was smart enough to infer that it was pretty heavy business.
“Think carefully, darling,” Bradley said to Raoul, his voice bored. “I’ve seen Adam decimate entire bloodlines for just insulting his hair so imagine what he’d do to you and yours if you decided to ignore his very generous offer.”
Raoul stared at them and then turned to look at Kris. He bared his teeth, showing his fangs.
“I am losing my patience, Raoul. Bradley will pay you out and you will go on your way. Don’t do business with David Allen again; in fact, stay away from both of them,” Adam intoned, growling slightly.
Raoul licked his lips, his eyes dark and narrowed in fury; he sniffed rudely at Kris and then turned to look at Adam. He spoke with his teeth clenched and an ugly smile on his face. “I accept your generous terms and agree that the contract is concluded.”
“Fabulous,” Bradley said, opening his black leather folder and scrawling quickly. He carefully ripped out the check and handed it over to Raoul. “Don’t spend it all in one place, sweetie.”
Adam nodded at Raoul, watching carefully as the vampire stared at the check, then at Kris, and then back at the city Elder. He bowed slowly and turned, stalking out of the room.
Kris let out a sigh of relief. He watched as Adam and Bradley spoke quietly, both of them looking at Kris. He shifted on his feet, feeling exposed and nervous. What in the world did he just agree to? A couple of kisses and he was ready to sink to his knees-
“Kris, this is Brad.”
“Call me Cheeks,” Brad said, holding out his hand. Kris shook it and was taken by surprise when Brad pulled him closer. He pressed his nose against Kris’s neck and inhaled deeply. “Hmmm, Adam, he’s my favorite flavor. Can I have a little?”
“Brad.”
“Just a nibble? I won’t leave a mark, I swear; and you like to share,” Brad insisted, grinning up at Adam.
Adam simply raised his eyebrow.
Kris finally pulled his hand from Brad’s grip and he tucked both of his hands into his pockets. “I, uh, guess that the terms of the favor start, uh, now?”
“Looking forward to it, huh?” Brad said, snickering. “I’m surprised his highness over here hasn’t put you in his pocket and ran upstairs with you already.”
Adam smacked the back of Brad’s head. “Manners!”
Brad gave him a narrowed look, pursing his lips. “Well, I’m just saying that your ability to stay in control is unusual and worth mentioning.”
“It is not,” Adam said, gruffly. “Ignore him, Kris, I do most of the time.”
Kris grinned as Brad rolled his eyes and gave a dramatic sigh. “The honeymoon is over.”
Adam snorted, shaking his head. “The honeymoon was over like 48 years ago.”
“Details,” Brad said, waving his hand.
Kris found that he liked Brad immediately. Unlike Adam, there was nothing intimidating about him. He wondered what kind of human man he was before he was blood turned. Obviously, he was someone worthy of Adam’s attention for all those decades. Kris knew only the basics of vampires and vampire history. His parents sent him to a mixed school and Kris had a couple of vampire friends back home. But he didn’t know very much about vampire society. He didn’t know all the rules and every city Elder ran his or her city with different laws and societal rules. Adam Lambert was certainly the most glamorous vampire Kris had ever met; he was intrigued by him…and a lot turned on as well. He blushed when Adam and Brad both scented him. Adam’s expression became soft, a small grin on his face; while Brad’s smirk deepened and he gave Kris a very knowing look.
“Ohhhh, Adam, he’s scrumptious. I think a little of that was directed at me.”
“Behave,” Adam growled at Brad and then smiled at Kris. “I’ll have one of the boys take you to your apartment so that you can pack an overnight bag. What kind of a host would I be if I didn’t allow for your comfort?”
“The kind of host that prefers his boys to remain naked-ouch! Really, Adam, this kind of abuse is unnecessary!” Brad said, stroking the back of his head, glaring up at the city Elder. “I’m calling domestic abuse!”
“Brad!”
“Fine,” Brad said, puckering his lips at Adam and giving him a smile. “Welcome to glam nation, Kristopher Allen, may you enjoy your stay.”
“Thanks, I guess.”
Adam placed his hand on Kris’s neck, caressing him gently. “I’ll see you soon. Don’t worry, everything is going to be fine. You’re my honored guest in the mansion; no one would touch you.”
No one would touch him…without Adam’s permission. He could read between the lines now; he understood very clearly what that vampire smile meant now.
***