Elemental Goddess
by: Wizardtho
Chapter 83: A Little Needed Major Time
MWPOV
I knew my little mate had finally reached her breakin' point when she looked up at me with those swirlin' starburst eyes. When I saw the power in them flare dangerously, I took control. I barked out, never lettin' my eyes stray from Isabella's, “Carlisle, you're in charge of the vampires for now. Make sure they get fed. Jake ‘ll command the shifters through the mind link. My mate needs a break. Kota, Nate... go get our gift. Set it up in the center of the open space in our cabin bedroom. Now!”
I took my overworked goddess' chin between my fingers again, looked deep in her eyes, then said, “Stay with me, Isabella. Listen to my voice. Concentrate on me. I'm takin' ya right now to make it better.”
I picked her up by the backs of her thighs, lettin’ out a breath in relief when she said softly but clearly as she buried her head in my neck, “Yes, Sir. You'll make it all better. Tighter please.”
I tightened my arms around her a fraction more, bein' careful of our sons, and felt her relax into me. I ran with her, not payin' any more attention to anyone else, knowin' that all who should be with us would follow. I heard the paddin' of paws and the thumpin' of footsteps behind me, so I whispered, “We're on the way, Isabella. What color?”
She let out a shaky breath before whisperin’, “Deep yellow, Major. Too much. I'm barely hanging on.”
I double-timed it as soon as the words left her mouth, then came to the open bedroom doors to find Nate and Kota just finishin' the setup on the cross. “Good work, you two. You're relieved to go help Carlisle with the newcomers. Keep an eye on ‘em around the humans -especially Charlie and Sue. Tell Carlisle we'll come to him as soon as Isabella is herself again. Go.”
They both scurried out of the room quickly. I noted Char and Peter both strippin' down while headin' towards the bed as I let Isabella down on her feet. As I held her hips to stabilize her, I felt and heard Aleksei outside in the grass pacin'. I said to my mate, “Isabella, look at me, now. Aleksei is outside pacin'. He's uncomfortable so far away, and not bein' able to be close... like Jake in the beginnin'. I need ya to tell me if you're comfortable with him closer.”
Her eyes met mine instantly, then she furrowed her eyebrows in confusion before she spoke.
BPOV
My Major wanted an answer... but why was he asking this question, when the answer should be clear?
My forehead furrowed in confusion, but I answered anyway, because that's what he was expecting. “Of course, Major. He's meant to be here. He may not have the added protector gift, but we already see it between the two of you, Major. Aleksei is your protector, whether officially named it or not. The Earth and I both know and accept this.”
He nodded, turned toward the open door, then instantly Aleksei had his head bowed in the doorway. Major said sternly, “Find a spot and park it. I'll need room to move and use equipment. I don't wanna be worried about steppin' on ya accidently. What happens in this room is not spoken of outside of it, and I only do what is well within Isabella's limits. Nod if ya understand.”
Aleksei's regal-looking head bowed once, then he carefully moved around the cross to rub his cheek against Major's leg. He received a pat in return before Major's attention returned to me, then I watched Jake make room on his new pallet bed for Aleksei as Major told me to strip.
Of course, I was quickly following his command. He hummed as he walked around me in a circle. “Good girl. Keep goin'. I want every beautiful inch’a your skin bared to me, Isabella. It's been too long since we had any length’a time together, so I plan on takin' advantage of it. I think ya deserve a reward for how long you've waited to be back on the cross, so I'll let ya pick which implement I start with, once you're secured in place.”
This made me excited. I couldn't wait to feel the cross against my skin again.
When I had fully stripped out of my clothes and placed them in the hamper, Major made note of something. “You're already needin' to nurse again. Look at how swollen your breasts are, Isabella.”
He stopped in front of me, gently massaging the slight uncomfortable feeling from both. He leaned in long enough to tease both of my nipples before standing fully, tugging gently on both tips, smirking, “Don't worry. I'll be takin' care of these as soon as I get ya calmed down some.”
I wanted to be a brat and say his mouth shouldn't have left me in the first place, if he wanted me to calm, but suppressed the action to just a deep groan of need.
Major chuckled at that, then walked the short distance to the top of the dresser. He grabbed the leather suspension cuffs, which meant I was going to be on the balls of my feet, then immediately started strapping me into them.
After checking the fit, he guided me to the cross, noting, “Now that you've had enough time to choose an implement, what’s your answer, Isabella? Make it quick, or I'll choose for ya.”
I hurried to answer him, asking hopefully, “Is there a Wartenberg wheel, Sir? Or something new we haven't tried?”
He immediately frowned, then nodded, “Unfortunately, there isn't one available, Isabella, but I'll speak to Kota about makin' one for us after this session. We do, however have somethin' ya haven't had the chance to experience yet.”
He turned, sauntered over to the dresser confidently, then ran his fingers through the falls of his new flogger... the one that looked like it had barbed wire twisted into the braided leather falls. I trembled as my arousal went from smoldering embers to a white-hot inferno, causing Major to hum, “I take it I don't need to ask your color, by the intoxicatin' scent you're givin' off, but I'm gonna anyway. What color are we, Isabella?”
I moaned as I tried not to squirm in my place, “Obsidian, Major. Please.”
He nodded, then came back to me while tucking the flogger's handle in his back pocket. After whipping his shirt over his head and tossing it toward the laundry bin, he massaged my breasts again as he said, “Ya need to be still if I'm gonna get my flogger on that sweet li'l pussy, Isabella. At the first indication that ya can't hold yaself still, ya need to call yellow, so that I can turn ya around. I wanna see your sexy ass as tender as your pussy, so it makes no difference to me. Understand me?”
I was so aroused it was pitiful. I couldn't help that my voice sounded like a needy moan when I answered him. “Of course, Major. The instant I feel I can't keep still, I'll call yellow.”
I trembled, but remained completely still as Major tugged on my nipples again, then slid a set of tightening nipple lassos over the tips that I hadn't noticed he'd had. He fixed their positions, then gave a decent tug with the rest of the length in his hand, making me let out a moaned growl as he slid to the floor.
That's when I realized that the excess was leading to where he was going to affix the last clamp to my clit. I whimpered when Major instructed me to open my legs, but did as he asked when he offered, “Last part, Isabella. Then we'll get ya set up on the cross. I know how much ya've missed it. I've missed seein' ya bound to my cross so much. I can't wait to have ya up there again, all naked and glorious. The pretty red marks on your skin will be the perfect beginnin’ to our time, and the pleasure shootin' from your nipples straight to your pussy? Mmm, that'll have me ready to cum inside that pretty mouth in no time.”
I gasped when he sucked hard on the nub, then immediately placed the clamp. Major gave me no reprieve, though, guiding me toward the cross without giving me time to adjust. The sensation was incredible. I shuddered a breath as I tried to think of something... anything... so I wouldn't cum without permission. I knew he'd at least want me to feel the flogger a few times before he gave me permission, so I needed to calm.
I focused on Major's face, the feel of him methodically hooking me into the rings, then he brushed his hands down my body as he said, “Give your arms a tug to make sure the rings are stable. I need to know if there's any give, Isabella.”
He hooked my ankles in as I tested the top rings. I responded happily, “Good to go, Major. Not even a minute slip. They're stable... and it feels incredible to be bound for you again.”
Major smirked at me, then backed up, warning, “Don't get ahead of yourself, my mate. Test the rings at your ankles, then we'll begin.”
I did, then nodded to Major that we were good. He came in close to brush his chest against mine, making my nipples ache pleasurably, the chain tugging slightly against my lower clamp. I moaned, leaning in more toward him, so he nipped my neck, “Good girl. Kiss me, Isabella, then relax back so we can begin.”
I instantly went weak while he took my mouth in a passionate kiss, then moaned as I relaxed back against the slightly uneven surface of the cross.
Major stepped back, looked at his flogger, then stepped back one more step before shaking out the falls. The sight of it had my arousal shooting higher. I let out a shaky breath as it whipped through the air.
The first strike was not all that hard. It landed on my inner thigh, but it felt amazing. I let out a whimper, wanting to move closer to the sensation, but Major said in that no bullshit tone I loved, “Color, Isabella... now.”
I let out a whooshed breath in need, “Obsidian, Major, please. Obsidian.”
Instantly, the flogger made contact against my other inner thigh. My fists clenched as my head fell back against the wood. My voice came out as a hissed, “Fuck, yesss,” but I tried hard to catalog the sensation and move on, so I wouldn't get caught up and cum.
The next strikes were both a bit harder, making them sting. They overlapped the last strikes he made on my inner thighs. “Work through it, Isabella... that's right. Gimmie two more on each thigh, then one on that pretty li'l pussy before ya let go. I know ya can give me that, my perfect mate. Tell me.”
His next strike hit my inner thigh so close to my core, that I cried out in both pleasure and need, “Yes, Sir. Three total left on my thighs, one to my pussy, then I can cum for you. Please, Major!”
His next strike was dead opposite of the last before I even finished speaking, causing me to beg. My arousal was now soaking my thighs, adding to the sting of the flogger, while saturating the entire room with my scent... even with the doors wide open.
I heard both Char and Peter moaning in the background, but right at that instant, Major made all three of his last strikes in quick succession, saying as the very tips of the flogger falls made contact with my swollen core, “Now, Isabella. Cum!”
I couldn't have stopped if I'd tried with all my might at that point. I came instantly, crying out as he dropped down in front of me, thrust two fingers deep inside me, then growled, “Fuck, that's right. Cum hard for me, Isabella. I want your taste on my tongue. Let it all out, My Goddess... I have ya.”
The clamp was removed quickly, his mouth replacing it in an instant. He tugged on my chain as he moaned into my pussy. I faintly registered my voice cracking as I cried out a string of profanities in both Latin and English, but was soon too lost in euphoric bliss to really care.
When I became aware again, it was to hiss at the feeling of the lassos being removed from my nipples, then moan when his tongue licked a teasing trail up each breast from bottom to nipple. He teased my love bite for a long moment before gently taking me into his mouth. I groaned in sweet relief as he took a few long draws.
After a few more deep pulls, he switched to the other breast, so I relaxed completely into the feeling. He took the same amount from this side, then released me with another teasing lick, offering, “That was to take the edge off. I'll be comin' back to ‘em soon. I want your ass a pretty pink before I slip inside ya, though, 'cuz I want ya to feel it when my hands are grabbin' that sweet ass to guide ya while ridin' me. How does that sound, Isabella?”
I moaned as new arousal leaked down my thighs at his suggestion, but didn't answer, because I knew it was a rhetorical question. He unhooked me from the cross, helped me stand on my feet, then massaged my arms and legs for a few minutes before turning me toward the cross.
Once I was hooked in again, Major went right back to work. He didn't take it as easy this way as when I was facing him, though. For that I was thankful. The feel of the flogger was truly intense, so I ended up crying out each time his whistled strikes landed on my back, ass, and thighs. The slight sting -from before my turn to face the cross- was deep one after, then it morphed into an almost biting sensation.
I always answered Major with “Obsidian,” when he asked my color, until an indefinable time later, I felt myself starting to block it all out. I had cum numerous times through the whole process, though, and felt myself letting go of all that was building inside me. He must have sensed my feelings, because he ordered as he took my chin between his fingers and locked eyes with me, “Color, Isabella. Now.”
I shook my head slightly, choking out, “Yellow, Sir. Slow, please.”
He hummed before kissing my lips, “Mmm, that's my girl. You're right where ya need to be now, and have such beautifully pink skin. Come, let's get ya down from here, so I can rub out your muscles. You've been up here for a good while now.”
I nodded, then rested my cheek against the cross, thankful that the flogger had stopped for now. My whole body felt like it was past the point of tingling, steadily working toward numb, but I felt more free than I'd felt in a long time. I had released everything little by little with each stroke of Major's flogger, and was now needing him close.
He gently laid me on my tummy, after releasing me from the cross and my suspension cuffs, asking in a whisper, “Comfortable? Adjust if ya need to, Isabella.”
I let out in a sigh as my body took in the comfort of the mattress, “Very comfortable, Sir.”
He chuckled, then started methodically but tenderly rubbing out my muscles. He would often lick or kiss a particularly tender spot on my thighs or ass while he worked. A part of my vampire mind was curious if he had split the skin, but I couldn't really concentrate enough to care when he was keeping my arousal high this way.
Once he was done, and my muscles felt like jello, he lifted me to pull me flush to him. I hummed, smiling into his neck when my head rested on his shoulder, then he offered a tender, “There's my sweet mate. I need to feel ya now, Isabella. You've been outta my arms for too long now.”
He got us situated against the headboard, then lifted my hips enough to settle his tip against my entrance. I slid down slowly, reveling in the feel of him finally being inside me again, then gasped as he licked and sucked at his love bite on my breast. He groaned as he settled in to feed, grabbing my still-stinging ass in his hands to guide my movements. The sensation was incredible. I felt myself tightening around him for a brief second as a result.
Our pace was slow and steady, but Major and I had both cum several times before he was through feeding. When we came one final time together afterward, it was with both of us clutching each other while crying out in bliss.
We collapsed breathlessly against the headboard, then I felt both Char and Peter kiss a few spots on my back on their way up the bed to situate on either side of us. I hummed at the feeling, since it relieved some of the sting, then whispered as I kissed Major's chest, “Thank you, Major.”
He smiled into my hair, then hummed, “All better? We can all can feel the difference, of course, but I'd like to hear ya confirm it.”
I grinned, “All better. Sore, but definitely better. Did you happen to split my skin with the flogger? That thing's a beast straight from hell, in case you didn't know it.”
He barked out a laugh, which I heard everyone else in the room echoing, then offered, “No. I didn't open your skin. I came close near the end, wantin' ya to call yellow. Ya needed to be at that point before I could let ya down. I never woulda actually done it, though. I can't, because ya need to conserve for our sons, nor would I without expressly knowin' ya needed it. If ya ever feel ya need me to go that far, and ya aren't pregnant at the time, you'll need to give me a signal, Isabella. Otherwise, I won't break skin.”
I nodded, then said as I ran my fingers through his slight chest hair, “No... I didn't think you would, but I couldn't be sure with this flogger and how I was feeling. It took me a long time to come through it this time, didn't it? I couldn't really feel the time passing, but I think it took longer.”
Peter and Char both nodded as I sat up, still connected to Major. I stretched my arms above my head to work out the slight kink as Peter offered, “Yeah, Little One. It had me and Char worried for a bit. I even thought Major was gonna throw out his shoulder or wrist at one point, with how long it was takin' ya to let it all out. Ya can't keep bottlin' shit up inside. This is the result... and I have to say, there are more pleasurable ways to go through your playtime with Major. As it is, you're lookin' at at least 3 more hours of having a sore, red backside.”
I gasped, then said, “Really? It only took an hour tops when Major used it on Edward, and he split the skin then.”
They all nodded, so Char explained, “He had to purposely go over every mark he made several times, Sweetness. Your whole backside looks like a confusing road map made by a 4-year-old.”
I winced, then Major said, “Let's get ya in the tub, now that I know you're well and can feel the boys movin'. We'll stop on the way for ya to pet Jake. They're both still awake, surprisingly.”
I immediately looked over to see both Jake and Aleksei laying with their heads on their paws, but their eyes trained on me. I smiled, then offered, “I'm good, guys, I promise. The boys are both active, too, so there's no need to worry. I'll let you feel when Major carries me over, so that you can put your minds at ease.”
I smirked knowingly as Major carried me over to their area and gently sat me in the cradle of Jake's front paws, telling us, “I'll come back to getcha in a minute, Isabella. Rest with Jake and Aleksei. Try not to move too much.”
I nodded, nuzzling into Jake, then said as soon as Major headed toward the bathroom, “I was right, ya know. You got a kitty as your new bed mate... and just as soon as he was in the room, what did you do? You scooted right over to make room for him, you big softy. Not once did you even attempt to stretch out and take the whole bed.”
Major laughed as he walked back in the room drying his hands, then patted Aleksei as Peter offered, “Jake might try and hide that li'l tidbit, but there was a recent joke about who Major's protector would be, when he first laid down on this fluffy new bed of his. Bella was the one to say that Jake would end up with a feline for his bed partner, and askin' what he would do then. So Jake sprawled all out, takin' up the whole bed in the most arrogant manner possible, which made us all laugh.”
I snickered, pulling at Jake's ear, who then tipped his head to nudge his face against Aleksei's. He did the same in return, then Major lifted his paw to set it gently against my tummy. I smiled at Aleksei, then said, “Say hi, boys. This is Aleksei. He's going to help keep Daddy safe out here.”
My tummy fluttered, then I watched the mighty tiger's eyes widen before he nuzzled his nose against my hand, then Major's. Jake quickly breathed against my tummy, making the boys flutter again, causing Major to say, “Alright, you two. Isabella needs in the tub before she becomes stiff. I don't want these marks lastin' any longer than necessary.”
They both moved enough to let Major pick me up, then laid back down on their paws.
We spent quiet time in the tub with Char and Peter, but it felt weird not to be getting sensations from the elements. I knew I'd need to recharge soon, so I said softly into Major's chest, “I need the Earth soon, My Love. I don't want to leave your arms, but it feels almost wrong to be inside right now. I promise to take it easy and rest against our tree, though. I want to spend some time with Dad, too... maybe talk to Randall about his power. I didn't get a chance to before.”
Char patted my hip gently, reminding me, “That's not slowing down or resting, Sweetness. Honestly... just let it all flow. Things are getting done, even if you aren't right in the center of it all physically.”
I let a breath out, nodding in agreement, then said softly, “It still feels off to be inside. Plus, I need to gather energy, after all that I expended.”
Soon we were back in the bedroom, all dried off. I found a beautiful blue boho style dress with scribbles of silver, red, and green all over the fabric. I knew Ali must have set it out for me. When I picked it up, I felt like it was the perfect thing for me to wear right now. It was backless, of course, except for a thin tie at my neck, and two that corresponded with the crochet piece just under my bust. It dipped down into a u-shape under the last tie, so I knew it would lay right around my tailbone. Everyone would be able to see my back, but I wasn't ashamed of my time with Major, and knew something like this would eventually happen.
I started gathering the dress to slip it over my head, then looked down to see a really cute pair of slip on wedge heels. The wedge part was wrapped in an earthy brown raffia, while the thong part was silver. It had silver sparkle circles and large circular blue gems. They were perfect with the dress. So cute.
I ended up hissing slightly when the dress slid down over my back, then felt Major kiss my shoulder as soon as the dress settled against my body, “Ya sure ya don't want me to tend to those?”
I shook my head, “I want them, Major. They're my reminder of why I need to slow down, but also of our time together. They will heal on their own in a few hours. In the meantime, every time I think I need to do something more, I'll feel the proof of what that ends up costing me emotionally and physically to become whole again. I already know Carlisle is going to be freaking out, wanting to check on the boys, and Charlie... uggh... yeah. Thank you, though, for offering. I'm not ashamed of them, Major.”
I gave him a tender kiss, then he loosely tied my ties so that they wouldn't irritate my still-raw back.
Major carried me carefully on the way to our backyard tree. Instantly, I heard several gasps. Charlie was surprisingly the first one to me after I settled myself against Major's chest. He looked at me worriedly. “That bad?”
I nodded sadly, then said as I cupped his cheek, “I'm good now, Dad.”
It stunned me slightly when instead of giving Major a dressing down in 'father mode', he sat back on his heels, then offered his hand to Major with a, “Thank you, Son, for doing what you had to.”
Major shook his hand, nodding, but said, “No thanks needed, Chief. So ya know, the marks will be completely healed in a few hours. Until then, I've put our little Goddess on rest orders. She can sit here and talk with others, after she spends time refillin' her energy, but she's to take it easy for a bit to recoup.”
At that, Carlisle gave us a stern nod, “Your doctor's orders are now echoing your mate's, Bella. That's the closest you've been to a full-blown episode since your turning. Lean up for me.”
He knelt on the opposite side of us as Charlie did, so they both had a perfect view of my back when I leaned forward. Carlisle hissed as he touched a few spots, then said seriously, “I know they extend beyond your back, Dear. Are any worse than this?”
He gently touched a spot, making me wince slightly, so Major said, “No. That's the worst of them. I already tended to that, as ya can tell.”
I saw Carlisle nod, then he said, “You can sit back now. I'll want to do a physical exam once the healing is complete, to make sure we don't need to do another venom treatment, but I'll get the mini check-up done now.”
He went to place his hands on my stomach, then stopped to look at me. I knew what he was thinking, so promised with a smile, “My stomach was completely avoided during the scene, so there's no need to worry.”
He let a breath out as his hands settled against my tummy. After feeling around for only a split second, both boys started fluttering. He smiled, then felt them moving for a good minute before he put his stethoscope to his ears, “I want to listen to your natural breathing for a minute, then you can relax.”
I nodded and breathed normally. Soon he was nodding to my mates that all was well.
After Carlisle and Charlie took a few more minutes to reassure themselves that I was fine, they walked away. I took the chance to refill my energy. I spent a good few minutes immersing myself in the Earth's eye once I was maxed out, happy to note that all our allies were safe and accounted for inside the protective fields. It was becoming easier and easier to see things through the Earth's eye, but noted with wonder that this seemed to be one of the ways my natural element bonded with me. I smiled when I returned to my own vision.
I opened my eyes to see Kota talking to the elders out of the corner of my eye. That reminded me of the cells again, so I patted Major's thigh before I told Jake, who had curled up at my feet, “You have at least one phased shifter at each site, right?”
He nodded, so I said, “Have everyone come in for a bit. I need to pick all of their brains for a few minutes.”
Jake chuckled, then nodded before laying his head back down on his paws. Aleksei wasn't far either, choosing to lay next to us on one side, while Peter and Char curled up to us on the other.
It was only a few minutes later, that I called out when everyone was gathered, “Okay, everyone. Grab a seat. We need to talk about a few things.”
When they were all seated around the back yard and quiet, I said seriously, “We have things that need to be made, other than the bunkhouses. I need to pick your brains for some answers. Kota knows the process to build the vampire-proof holding cells that we need. Unfortunately, we need a few things for that process that we don't actually have on hand. That's where you come in. Edward, what metal did the shaman show you when he relayed the process to you?”
He smiled, then offered, “Titanium, since the metal is naturally stronger than most.”
I nodded, then asked, “And the venom to metal ratio?”
Kota was the one to answer, but Edward nodded his agreement, “Approximately one quart for each cell, which is more of a single-hold standing cage. Once locked in, the vampire will be unable to move from their standing position, without risking being cut open from the inner spikes.”
I nodded, then asked the final question, “Is there anything else we need but can't readily find?” They both shook their heads.
I looked around the back yard, then finally said, “We need a titanium supplier and someone we can get a large amount of vampire venom from. The more potent, the better. Do any of you have any connections in these areas?”
Eleazar stood to explain, “My undercover contact in the Volturi castle called just after you left with Major, Goddess. He wanted to warn us that Felix, Demitri, and Jane had been dispatched to find you and eliminate the threat you pose. Rumors of your appearance have officially reached Aro.”
I nodded, so he continued. “Alice saw a vision of me asking him to smuggle venom out of the castle, then ship it to us. I asked, and he said he would send me only a quick text with the arrival date and time, once it was confirmed.”
I thought for a long second, then confirmed, “And your contact is sure not to have been found out? There's no way this could be a set up?”
He shook his head, then offered, “This contact has been in place for centuries, Goddess, and not been compromised in all that time. I would stake my life on this being a genuine offer.”
I nodded then relaxed slightly.
Looking around, I said, “Good... that's one part taken care of. Now does anyone have any titanium contacts that wouldn't mind sharing a crap ton of it?”
At that, Garrett laughed, then offered, “I do, actually, Goddess. I only have but to make the call. It may be pricey, though.”
I nodded, letting him know price was of no concern to me, so he immediately pulled a phone from his pocket. After a few seconds, I faintly heard a man on the other end of the line greeting Garrett in a friendly manner, but Garrett got right down to business. “My friend, I have a matter of utmost importance to discuss with you. That titanium you spoke to me about a while back... is it still available?”
After a few seconds, the man laughed, then got serious. “Yeah, Gar. I actually have almost twice the amount I had during our last talk. I can't find people to take it off my hands fast enough, so that the shit doesn't build up. Why?”
Garrett looked at me. At my nod, he offered, “Well, Jeff, I think I'm about to make your day. If you figure up a fair price for the total amount you have on hand, plus delivery, I have a buyer for you.”
The man, Jeff, seemed to choke slightly on something, then coughed loudly before choking out, “You've got to be fucking with me. Gar, don't say shit like that, man.”
I couldn't help but let out a barely audible chuckle. Garrett just smirked before continuing his conversation. “Jeffrey Coleson, I truly have a buyer for you, but they want the whole lot of it. As much as you have on hand, and possibly another buy at a later date. Have you ever known me to joke at all concerning business matters?”
Jeff stumbled over his words for a good minute, then stuttered out a complete thought. “A-all of it? Jesus, Garrett. Okay, let's figure this out. I have approximately 17257.5 kilograms I can offer your buyer right now. All inspected and quality tested to be pure. That translates to 38046.27 pounds at 20 bucks per pound. With them buying the whole lot, make that 15 bucks a pound.”
He made a low whistle, then said, “That's $570,694. Garrett, are you sure your buyer wants this much?”
Garrett looked at me, so I said too softly for Jeff to hear, “Yes, definitely. Half now, with the full payment for that half. The other half will be delivered at a different place and time, the full amount for that half forwarded to him when the agreement is finalized for that portion. An agreement for the full amount, dates, and an NDA will be faxed to him. Discretion is a must, or he can kiss the sale goodbye now.”
Garrett nodded seriously, then said to Jeff, “Yes, the full amount. A non-disclosure agreement will be faxed to your office. Sign and email it back to my email address. As soon as it's received, a contract will be sent, covering the full amount you quoted me, deliveries, and other such details. Contact me by phone immediately if you have questions or concerns about the contract, Jeff, because there's a time clock running here. You'll have the NDA within 30 minutes.”
Garrett's phone was flipped shut a second later, so I looked to my Major. He smiled down at me, “No need ta worry, My Goddess. Standard contract forms and non-disclosure papers are always kept on file in Carlisle's office. It'll take any one of us only a few minutes to fill in the necessary spaces with information, another minute to email the files to Garrett's contact. He gave us an extremely fair price on the amount we’re orderin’, as long as the purity holds true to his claim.”
I knew my little mate had finally reached her breakin' point when she looked up at me with those swirlin' starburst eyes. When I saw the power in them flare dangerously, I took control. I barked out, never lettin' my eyes stray from Isabella's, “Carlisle, you're in charge of the vampires for now. Make sure they get fed. Jake ‘ll command the shifters through the mind link. My mate needs a break. Kota, Nate... go get our gift. Set it up in the center of the open space in our cabin bedroom. Now!”
I took my overworked goddess' chin between my fingers again, looked deep in her eyes, then said, “Stay with me, Isabella. Listen to my voice. Concentrate on me. I'm takin' ya right now to make it better.”
I picked her up by the backs of her thighs, lettin’ out a breath in relief when she said softly but clearly as she buried her head in my neck, “Yes, Sir. You'll make it all better. Tighter please.”
I tightened my arms around her a fraction more, bein' careful of our sons, and felt her relax into me. I ran with her, not payin' any more attention to anyone else, knowin' that all who should be with us would follow. I heard the paddin' of paws and the thumpin' of footsteps behind me, so I whispered, “We're on the way, Isabella. What color?”
She let out a shaky breath before whisperin’, “Deep yellow, Major. Too much. I'm barely hanging on.”
I double-timed it as soon as the words left her mouth, then came to the open bedroom doors to find Nate and Kota just finishin' the setup on the cross. “Good work, you two. You're relieved to go help Carlisle with the newcomers. Keep an eye on ‘em around the humans -especially Charlie and Sue. Tell Carlisle we'll come to him as soon as Isabella is herself again. Go.”
They both scurried out of the room quickly. I noted Char and Peter both strippin' down while headin' towards the bed as I let Isabella down on her feet. As I held her hips to stabilize her, I felt and heard Aleksei outside in the grass pacin'. I said to my mate, “Isabella, look at me, now. Aleksei is outside pacin'. He's uncomfortable so far away, and not bein' able to be close... like Jake in the beginnin'. I need ya to tell me if you're comfortable with him closer.”
Her eyes met mine instantly, then she furrowed her eyebrows in confusion before she spoke.
BPOV
My Major wanted an answer... but why was he asking this question, when the answer should be clear?
My forehead furrowed in confusion, but I answered anyway, because that's what he was expecting. “Of course, Major. He's meant to be here. He may not have the added protector gift, but we already see it between the two of you, Major. Aleksei is your protector, whether officially named it or not. The Earth and I both know and accept this.”
He nodded, turned toward the open door, then instantly Aleksei had his head bowed in the doorway. Major said sternly, “Find a spot and park it. I'll need room to move and use equipment. I don't wanna be worried about steppin' on ya accidently. What happens in this room is not spoken of outside of it, and I only do what is well within Isabella's limits. Nod if ya understand.”
Aleksei's regal-looking head bowed once, then he carefully moved around the cross to rub his cheek against Major's leg. He received a pat in return before Major's attention returned to me, then I watched Jake make room on his new pallet bed for Aleksei as Major told me to strip.
Of course, I was quickly following his command. He hummed as he walked around me in a circle. “Good girl. Keep goin'. I want every beautiful inch’a your skin bared to me, Isabella. It's been too long since we had any length’a time together, so I plan on takin' advantage of it. I think ya deserve a reward for how long you've waited to be back on the cross, so I'll let ya pick which implement I start with, once you're secured in place.”
This made me excited. I couldn't wait to feel the cross against my skin again.
When I had fully stripped out of my clothes and placed them in the hamper, Major made note of something. “You're already needin' to nurse again. Look at how swollen your breasts are, Isabella.”
He stopped in front of me, gently massaging the slight uncomfortable feeling from both. He leaned in long enough to tease both of my nipples before standing fully, tugging gently on both tips, smirking, “Don't worry. I'll be takin' care of these as soon as I get ya calmed down some.”
I wanted to be a brat and say his mouth shouldn't have left me in the first place, if he wanted me to calm, but suppressed the action to just a deep groan of need.
Major chuckled at that, then walked the short distance to the top of the dresser. He grabbed the leather suspension cuffs, which meant I was going to be on the balls of my feet, then immediately started strapping me into them.
After checking the fit, he guided me to the cross, noting, “Now that you've had enough time to choose an implement, what’s your answer, Isabella? Make it quick, or I'll choose for ya.”
I hurried to answer him, asking hopefully, “Is there a Wartenberg wheel, Sir? Or something new we haven't tried?”
He immediately frowned, then nodded, “Unfortunately, there isn't one available, Isabella, but I'll speak to Kota about makin' one for us after this session. We do, however have somethin' ya haven't had the chance to experience yet.”
He turned, sauntered over to the dresser confidently, then ran his fingers through the falls of his new flogger... the one that looked like it had barbed wire twisted into the braided leather falls. I trembled as my arousal went from smoldering embers to a white-hot inferno, causing Major to hum, “I take it I don't need to ask your color, by the intoxicatin' scent you're givin' off, but I'm gonna anyway. What color are we, Isabella?”
I moaned as I tried not to squirm in my place, “Obsidian, Major. Please.”
He nodded, then came back to me while tucking the flogger's handle in his back pocket. After whipping his shirt over his head and tossing it toward the laundry bin, he massaged my breasts again as he said, “Ya need to be still if I'm gonna get my flogger on that sweet li'l pussy, Isabella. At the first indication that ya can't hold yaself still, ya need to call yellow, so that I can turn ya around. I wanna see your sexy ass as tender as your pussy, so it makes no difference to me. Understand me?”
I was so aroused it was pitiful. I couldn't help that my voice sounded like a needy moan when I answered him. “Of course, Major. The instant I feel I can't keep still, I'll call yellow.”
I trembled, but remained completely still as Major tugged on my nipples again, then slid a set of tightening nipple lassos over the tips that I hadn't noticed he'd had. He fixed their positions, then gave a decent tug with the rest of the length in his hand, making me let out a moaned growl as he slid to the floor.
That's when I realized that the excess was leading to where he was going to affix the last clamp to my clit. I whimpered when Major instructed me to open my legs, but did as he asked when he offered, “Last part, Isabella. Then we'll get ya set up on the cross. I know how much ya've missed it. I've missed seein' ya bound to my cross so much. I can't wait to have ya up there again, all naked and glorious. The pretty red marks on your skin will be the perfect beginnin’ to our time, and the pleasure shootin' from your nipples straight to your pussy? Mmm, that'll have me ready to cum inside that pretty mouth in no time.”
I gasped when he sucked hard on the nub, then immediately placed the clamp. Major gave me no reprieve, though, guiding me toward the cross without giving me time to adjust. The sensation was incredible. I shuddered a breath as I tried to think of something... anything... so I wouldn't cum without permission. I knew he'd at least want me to feel the flogger a few times before he gave me permission, so I needed to calm.
I focused on Major's face, the feel of him methodically hooking me into the rings, then he brushed his hands down my body as he said, “Give your arms a tug to make sure the rings are stable. I need to know if there's any give, Isabella.”
He hooked my ankles in as I tested the top rings. I responded happily, “Good to go, Major. Not even a minute slip. They're stable... and it feels incredible to be bound for you again.”
Major smirked at me, then backed up, warning, “Don't get ahead of yourself, my mate. Test the rings at your ankles, then we'll begin.”
I did, then nodded to Major that we were good. He came in close to brush his chest against mine, making my nipples ache pleasurably, the chain tugging slightly against my lower clamp. I moaned, leaning in more toward him, so he nipped my neck, “Good girl. Kiss me, Isabella, then relax back so we can begin.”
I instantly went weak while he took my mouth in a passionate kiss, then moaned as I relaxed back against the slightly uneven surface of the cross.
Major stepped back, looked at his flogger, then stepped back one more step before shaking out the falls. The sight of it had my arousal shooting higher. I let out a shaky breath as it whipped through the air.
The first strike was not all that hard. It landed on my inner thigh, but it felt amazing. I let out a whimper, wanting to move closer to the sensation, but Major said in that no bullshit tone I loved, “Color, Isabella... now.”
I let out a whooshed breath in need, “Obsidian, Major, please. Obsidian.”
Instantly, the flogger made contact against my other inner thigh. My fists clenched as my head fell back against the wood. My voice came out as a hissed, “Fuck, yesss,” but I tried hard to catalog the sensation and move on, so I wouldn't get caught up and cum.
The next strikes were both a bit harder, making them sting. They overlapped the last strikes he made on my inner thighs. “Work through it, Isabella... that's right. Gimmie two more on each thigh, then one on that pretty li'l pussy before ya let go. I know ya can give me that, my perfect mate. Tell me.”
His next strike hit my inner thigh so close to my core, that I cried out in both pleasure and need, “Yes, Sir. Three total left on my thighs, one to my pussy, then I can cum for you. Please, Major!”
His next strike was dead opposite of the last before I even finished speaking, causing me to beg. My arousal was now soaking my thighs, adding to the sting of the flogger, while saturating the entire room with my scent... even with the doors wide open.
I heard both Char and Peter moaning in the background, but right at that instant, Major made all three of his last strikes in quick succession, saying as the very tips of the flogger falls made contact with my swollen core, “Now, Isabella. Cum!”
I couldn't have stopped if I'd tried with all my might at that point. I came instantly, crying out as he dropped down in front of me, thrust two fingers deep inside me, then growled, “Fuck, that's right. Cum hard for me, Isabella. I want your taste on my tongue. Let it all out, My Goddess... I have ya.”
The clamp was removed quickly, his mouth replacing it in an instant. He tugged on my chain as he moaned into my pussy. I faintly registered my voice cracking as I cried out a string of profanities in both Latin and English, but was soon too lost in euphoric bliss to really care.
When I became aware again, it was to hiss at the feeling of the lassos being removed from my nipples, then moan when his tongue licked a teasing trail up each breast from bottom to nipple. He teased my love bite for a long moment before gently taking me into his mouth. I groaned in sweet relief as he took a few long draws.
After a few more deep pulls, he switched to the other breast, so I relaxed completely into the feeling. He took the same amount from this side, then released me with another teasing lick, offering, “That was to take the edge off. I'll be comin' back to ‘em soon. I want your ass a pretty pink before I slip inside ya, though, 'cuz I want ya to feel it when my hands are grabbin' that sweet ass to guide ya while ridin' me. How does that sound, Isabella?”
I moaned as new arousal leaked down my thighs at his suggestion, but didn't answer, because I knew it was a rhetorical question. He unhooked me from the cross, helped me stand on my feet, then massaged my arms and legs for a few minutes before turning me toward the cross.
Once I was hooked in again, Major went right back to work. He didn't take it as easy this way as when I was facing him, though. For that I was thankful. The feel of the flogger was truly intense, so I ended up crying out each time his whistled strikes landed on my back, ass, and thighs. The slight sting -from before my turn to face the cross- was deep one after, then it morphed into an almost biting sensation.
I always answered Major with “Obsidian,” when he asked my color, until an indefinable time later, I felt myself starting to block it all out. I had cum numerous times through the whole process, though, and felt myself letting go of all that was building inside me. He must have sensed my feelings, because he ordered as he took my chin between his fingers and locked eyes with me, “Color, Isabella. Now.”
I shook my head slightly, choking out, “Yellow, Sir. Slow, please.”
He hummed before kissing my lips, “Mmm, that's my girl. You're right where ya need to be now, and have such beautifully pink skin. Come, let's get ya down from here, so I can rub out your muscles. You've been up here for a good while now.”
I nodded, then rested my cheek against the cross, thankful that the flogger had stopped for now. My whole body felt like it was past the point of tingling, steadily working toward numb, but I felt more free than I'd felt in a long time. I had released everything little by little with each stroke of Major's flogger, and was now needing him close.
He gently laid me on my tummy, after releasing me from the cross and my suspension cuffs, asking in a whisper, “Comfortable? Adjust if ya need to, Isabella.”
I let out in a sigh as my body took in the comfort of the mattress, “Very comfortable, Sir.”
He chuckled, then started methodically but tenderly rubbing out my muscles. He would often lick or kiss a particularly tender spot on my thighs or ass while he worked. A part of my vampire mind was curious if he had split the skin, but I couldn't really concentrate enough to care when he was keeping my arousal high this way.
Once he was done, and my muscles felt like jello, he lifted me to pull me flush to him. I hummed, smiling into his neck when my head rested on his shoulder, then he offered a tender, “There's my sweet mate. I need to feel ya now, Isabella. You've been outta my arms for too long now.”
He got us situated against the headboard, then lifted my hips enough to settle his tip against my entrance. I slid down slowly, reveling in the feel of him finally being inside me again, then gasped as he licked and sucked at his love bite on my breast. He groaned as he settled in to feed, grabbing my still-stinging ass in his hands to guide my movements. The sensation was incredible. I felt myself tightening around him for a brief second as a result.
Our pace was slow and steady, but Major and I had both cum several times before he was through feeding. When we came one final time together afterward, it was with both of us clutching each other while crying out in bliss.
We collapsed breathlessly against the headboard, then I felt both Char and Peter kiss a few spots on my back on their way up the bed to situate on either side of us. I hummed at the feeling, since it relieved some of the sting, then whispered as I kissed Major's chest, “Thank you, Major.”
He smiled into my hair, then hummed, “All better? We can all can feel the difference, of course, but I'd like to hear ya confirm it.”
I grinned, “All better. Sore, but definitely better. Did you happen to split my skin with the flogger? That thing's a beast straight from hell, in case you didn't know it.”
He barked out a laugh, which I heard everyone else in the room echoing, then offered, “No. I didn't open your skin. I came close near the end, wantin' ya to call yellow. Ya needed to be at that point before I could let ya down. I never woulda actually done it, though. I can't, because ya need to conserve for our sons, nor would I without expressly knowin' ya needed it. If ya ever feel ya need me to go that far, and ya aren't pregnant at the time, you'll need to give me a signal, Isabella. Otherwise, I won't break skin.”
I nodded, then said as I ran my fingers through his slight chest hair, “No... I didn't think you would, but I couldn't be sure with this flogger and how I was feeling. It took me a long time to come through it this time, didn't it? I couldn't really feel the time passing, but I think it took longer.”
Peter and Char both nodded as I sat up, still connected to Major. I stretched my arms above my head to work out the slight kink as Peter offered, “Yeah, Little One. It had me and Char worried for a bit. I even thought Major was gonna throw out his shoulder or wrist at one point, with how long it was takin' ya to let it all out. Ya can't keep bottlin' shit up inside. This is the result... and I have to say, there are more pleasurable ways to go through your playtime with Major. As it is, you're lookin' at at least 3 more hours of having a sore, red backside.”
I gasped, then said, “Really? It only took an hour tops when Major used it on Edward, and he split the skin then.”
They all nodded, so Char explained, “He had to purposely go over every mark he made several times, Sweetness. Your whole backside looks like a confusing road map made by a 4-year-old.”
I winced, then Major said, “Let's get ya in the tub, now that I know you're well and can feel the boys movin'. We'll stop on the way for ya to pet Jake. They're both still awake, surprisingly.”
I immediately looked over to see both Jake and Aleksei laying with their heads on their paws, but their eyes trained on me. I smiled, then offered, “I'm good, guys, I promise. The boys are both active, too, so there's no need to worry. I'll let you feel when Major carries me over, so that you can put your minds at ease.”
I smirked knowingly as Major carried me over to their area and gently sat me in the cradle of Jake's front paws, telling us, “I'll come back to getcha in a minute, Isabella. Rest with Jake and Aleksei. Try not to move too much.”
I nodded, nuzzling into Jake, then said as soon as Major headed toward the bathroom, “I was right, ya know. You got a kitty as your new bed mate... and just as soon as he was in the room, what did you do? You scooted right over to make room for him, you big softy. Not once did you even attempt to stretch out and take the whole bed.”
Major laughed as he walked back in the room drying his hands, then patted Aleksei as Peter offered, “Jake might try and hide that li'l tidbit, but there was a recent joke about who Major's protector would be, when he first laid down on this fluffy new bed of his. Bella was the one to say that Jake would end up with a feline for his bed partner, and askin' what he would do then. So Jake sprawled all out, takin' up the whole bed in the most arrogant manner possible, which made us all laugh.”
I snickered, pulling at Jake's ear, who then tipped his head to nudge his face against Aleksei's. He did the same in return, then Major lifted his paw to set it gently against my tummy. I smiled at Aleksei, then said, “Say hi, boys. This is Aleksei. He's going to help keep Daddy safe out here.”
My tummy fluttered, then I watched the mighty tiger's eyes widen before he nuzzled his nose against my hand, then Major's. Jake quickly breathed against my tummy, making the boys flutter again, causing Major to say, “Alright, you two. Isabella needs in the tub before she becomes stiff. I don't want these marks lastin' any longer than necessary.”
They both moved enough to let Major pick me up, then laid back down on their paws.
We spent quiet time in the tub with Char and Peter, but it felt weird not to be getting sensations from the elements. I knew I'd need to recharge soon, so I said softly into Major's chest, “I need the Earth soon, My Love. I don't want to leave your arms, but it feels almost wrong to be inside right now. I promise to take it easy and rest against our tree, though. I want to spend some time with Dad, too... maybe talk to Randall about his power. I didn't get a chance to before.”
Char patted my hip gently, reminding me, “That's not slowing down or resting, Sweetness. Honestly... just let it all flow. Things are getting done, even if you aren't right in the center of it all physically.”
I let a breath out, nodding in agreement, then said softly, “It still feels off to be inside. Plus, I need to gather energy, after all that I expended.”
Soon we were back in the bedroom, all dried off. I found a beautiful blue boho style dress with scribbles of silver, red, and green all over the fabric. I knew Ali must have set it out for me. When I picked it up, I felt like it was the perfect thing for me to wear right now. It was backless, of course, except for a thin tie at my neck, and two that corresponded with the crochet piece just under my bust. It dipped down into a u-shape under the last tie, so I knew it would lay right around my tailbone. Everyone would be able to see my back, but I wasn't ashamed of my time with Major, and knew something like this would eventually happen.
I started gathering the dress to slip it over my head, then looked down to see a really cute pair of slip on wedge heels. The wedge part was wrapped in an earthy brown raffia, while the thong part was silver. It had silver sparkle circles and large circular blue gems. They were perfect with the dress. So cute.
I ended up hissing slightly when the dress slid down over my back, then felt Major kiss my shoulder as soon as the dress settled against my body, “Ya sure ya don't want me to tend to those?”
I shook my head, “I want them, Major. They're my reminder of why I need to slow down, but also of our time together. They will heal on their own in a few hours. In the meantime, every time I think I need to do something more, I'll feel the proof of what that ends up costing me emotionally and physically to become whole again. I already know Carlisle is going to be freaking out, wanting to check on the boys, and Charlie... uggh... yeah. Thank you, though, for offering. I'm not ashamed of them, Major.”
I gave him a tender kiss, then he loosely tied my ties so that they wouldn't irritate my still-raw back.
Major carried me carefully on the way to our backyard tree. Instantly, I heard several gasps. Charlie was surprisingly the first one to me after I settled myself against Major's chest. He looked at me worriedly. “That bad?”
I nodded sadly, then said as I cupped his cheek, “I'm good now, Dad.”
It stunned me slightly when instead of giving Major a dressing down in 'father mode', he sat back on his heels, then offered his hand to Major with a, “Thank you, Son, for doing what you had to.”
Major shook his hand, nodding, but said, “No thanks needed, Chief. So ya know, the marks will be completely healed in a few hours. Until then, I've put our little Goddess on rest orders. She can sit here and talk with others, after she spends time refillin' her energy, but she's to take it easy for a bit to recoup.”
At that, Carlisle gave us a stern nod, “Your doctor's orders are now echoing your mate's, Bella. That's the closest you've been to a full-blown episode since your turning. Lean up for me.”
He knelt on the opposite side of us as Charlie did, so they both had a perfect view of my back when I leaned forward. Carlisle hissed as he touched a few spots, then said seriously, “I know they extend beyond your back, Dear. Are any worse than this?”
He gently touched a spot, making me wince slightly, so Major said, “No. That's the worst of them. I already tended to that, as ya can tell.”
I saw Carlisle nod, then he said, “You can sit back now. I'll want to do a physical exam once the healing is complete, to make sure we don't need to do another venom treatment, but I'll get the mini check-up done now.”
He went to place his hands on my stomach, then stopped to look at me. I knew what he was thinking, so promised with a smile, “My stomach was completely avoided during the scene, so there's no need to worry.”
He let a breath out as his hands settled against my tummy. After feeling around for only a split second, both boys started fluttering. He smiled, then felt them moving for a good minute before he put his stethoscope to his ears, “I want to listen to your natural breathing for a minute, then you can relax.”
I nodded and breathed normally. Soon he was nodding to my mates that all was well.
After Carlisle and Charlie took a few more minutes to reassure themselves that I was fine, they walked away. I took the chance to refill my energy. I spent a good few minutes immersing myself in the Earth's eye once I was maxed out, happy to note that all our allies were safe and accounted for inside the protective fields. It was becoming easier and easier to see things through the Earth's eye, but noted with wonder that this seemed to be one of the ways my natural element bonded with me. I smiled when I returned to my own vision.
I opened my eyes to see Kota talking to the elders out of the corner of my eye. That reminded me of the cells again, so I patted Major's thigh before I told Jake, who had curled up at my feet, “You have at least one phased shifter at each site, right?”
He nodded, so I said, “Have everyone come in for a bit. I need to pick all of their brains for a few minutes.”
Jake chuckled, then nodded before laying his head back down on his paws. Aleksei wasn't far either, choosing to lay next to us on one side, while Peter and Char curled up to us on the other.
It was only a few minutes later, that I called out when everyone was gathered, “Okay, everyone. Grab a seat. We need to talk about a few things.”
When they were all seated around the back yard and quiet, I said seriously, “We have things that need to be made, other than the bunkhouses. I need to pick your brains for some answers. Kota knows the process to build the vampire-proof holding cells that we need. Unfortunately, we need a few things for that process that we don't actually have on hand. That's where you come in. Edward, what metal did the shaman show you when he relayed the process to you?”
He smiled, then offered, “Titanium, since the metal is naturally stronger than most.”
I nodded, then asked, “And the venom to metal ratio?”
Kota was the one to answer, but Edward nodded his agreement, “Approximately one quart for each cell, which is more of a single-hold standing cage. Once locked in, the vampire will be unable to move from their standing position, without risking being cut open from the inner spikes.”
I nodded, then asked the final question, “Is there anything else we need but can't readily find?” They both shook their heads.
I looked around the back yard, then finally said, “We need a titanium supplier and someone we can get a large amount of vampire venom from. The more potent, the better. Do any of you have any connections in these areas?”
Eleazar stood to explain, “My undercover contact in the Volturi castle called just after you left with Major, Goddess. He wanted to warn us that Felix, Demitri, and Jane had been dispatched to find you and eliminate the threat you pose. Rumors of your appearance have officially reached Aro.”
I nodded, so he continued. “Alice saw a vision of me asking him to smuggle venom out of the castle, then ship it to us. I asked, and he said he would send me only a quick text with the arrival date and time, once it was confirmed.”
I thought for a long second, then confirmed, “And your contact is sure not to have been found out? There's no way this could be a set up?”
He shook his head, then offered, “This contact has been in place for centuries, Goddess, and not been compromised in all that time. I would stake my life on this being a genuine offer.”
I nodded then relaxed slightly.
Looking around, I said, “Good... that's one part taken care of. Now does anyone have any titanium contacts that wouldn't mind sharing a crap ton of it?”
At that, Garrett laughed, then offered, “I do, actually, Goddess. I only have but to make the call. It may be pricey, though.”
I nodded, letting him know price was of no concern to me, so he immediately pulled a phone from his pocket. After a few seconds, I faintly heard a man on the other end of the line greeting Garrett in a friendly manner, but Garrett got right down to business. “My friend, I have a matter of utmost importance to discuss with you. That titanium you spoke to me about a while back... is it still available?”
After a few seconds, the man laughed, then got serious. “Yeah, Gar. I actually have almost twice the amount I had during our last talk. I can't find people to take it off my hands fast enough, so that the shit doesn't build up. Why?”
Garrett looked at me. At my nod, he offered, “Well, Jeff, I think I'm about to make your day. If you figure up a fair price for the total amount you have on hand, plus delivery, I have a buyer for you.”
The man, Jeff, seemed to choke slightly on something, then coughed loudly before choking out, “You've got to be fucking with me. Gar, don't say shit like that, man.”
I couldn't help but let out a barely audible chuckle. Garrett just smirked before continuing his conversation. “Jeffrey Coleson, I truly have a buyer for you, but they want the whole lot of it. As much as you have on hand, and possibly another buy at a later date. Have you ever known me to joke at all concerning business matters?”
Jeff stumbled over his words for a good minute, then stuttered out a complete thought. “A-all of it? Jesus, Garrett. Okay, let's figure this out. I have approximately 17257.5 kilograms I can offer your buyer right now. All inspected and quality tested to be pure. That translates to 38046.27 pounds at 20 bucks per pound. With them buying the whole lot, make that 15 bucks a pound.”
He made a low whistle, then said, “That's $570,694. Garrett, are you sure your buyer wants this much?”
Garrett looked at me, so I said too softly for Jeff to hear, “Yes, definitely. Half now, with the full payment for that half. The other half will be delivered at a different place and time, the full amount for that half forwarded to him when the agreement is finalized for that portion. An agreement for the full amount, dates, and an NDA will be faxed to him. Discretion is a must, or he can kiss the sale goodbye now.”
Garrett nodded seriously, then said to Jeff, “Yes, the full amount. A non-disclosure agreement will be faxed to your office. Sign and email it back to my email address. As soon as it's received, a contract will be sent, covering the full amount you quoted me, deliveries, and other such details. Contact me by phone immediately if you have questions or concerns about the contract, Jeff, because there's a time clock running here. You'll have the NDA within 30 minutes.”
Garrett's phone was flipped shut a second later, so I looked to my Major. He smiled down at me, “No need ta worry, My Goddess. Standard contract forms and non-disclosure papers are always kept on file in Carlisle's office. It'll take any one of us only a few minutes to fill in the necessary spaces with information, another minute to email the files to Garrett's contact. He gave us an extremely fair price on the amount we’re orderin’, as long as the purity holds true to his claim.”
