It shouldn’t be a big deal. All Billy's friends have visited the widow's house and each seemed to come away better for the experience. Visiting her has been a rite of passage for boys in town for as long as anyone can remember.

Billy knows he should want this. The whispers about him have been growing and even his friends are starting to ask questions. Tonight is the night if he's going to end the rumors. Should it matter if it’s Halloween and there’s a full moon in the sky?

---

Chapter 11

Candles filled every window. Billy asked, “Does this place have electricity?”

“Some. My husband planned to wire every room, but well …” Tamsyn’s voice went silent.

“You don’t have electricity?”

“It saves us a lot of money.”

Billy looked at the ceiling where a couple dozen candles flashed through the chandelier, “You must spend it on candles.”

“My husband left me more than enough money to keep this place going.” Tamsyn fidgeted and changed the subject. “Would you like to see our library?”

Billy looked at the ceiling. Large cobwebs covered every corner. “I guess.”

“It’s over here.”

Tamsyn pointed to a room with double doors. A huge piece of wood lay across both barring the door. Clasped on the front was a chain lock making it impossible for anyone to get inside without a key.

Billy asked, “Is this your safe room?”

“Safe?” Tamsyn smiled as she pulled the keychain from her cloak’s pocket. “Hardly.”

Tamsyn unlocked the chain. Billy pushed the heavy wooden bar up until stood vertical and clicked into place. “Someone definitely wanted this room to be secure.”

“Yeah. We didn’t know this room existed until we’re at the end of construction. You can still see where plaster covered both doors. Notice the damage to the door frame? The contractors did that when they started to tear down the wall and found the room instead.”

“Did you find treasure inside?” Billy ran a hand over the door frame. A battering ram would have a tough time getting through the heavy oak.

“Someone went to a lot of trouble to keep anyone from getting inside.”

“Treasure? No.” Tamsyn lit another cigarette. “This room’s original purpose was as an office for the rector who built this place. He plastered it over when he had to sell.”

“That’s odd.”

“I thought so too.” Tamsyn opened the door revealing a decent sized room. Bookshelves lined the walls and rose to the ceiling. Only a few were empty. “We found thousands of pages of documents inside.” She pointed to the shelves.

“He left them behind?”

Tamsyn said, “I later learned the man had borrowed heavily to build this place. The banks don’t care if you are a man of god if you fall behind on your payments. The stories say he left in a hurry when the creditors came calling. Some claim he went east to hide with family. Others say he moved north and started a new church.”

Leather-bound books filled most of the shelves. A large desk and chair sat near the front of the room. Pieces of old paper lay strewn all over the desk.

Billy said, “This place smells old.”

“It is old.”

“These books must have cost a fortune.”

“Yeah. I figure accumulating them was part of why this place went bankrupt.“ Tamsyn said, “Some of these books are priceless. One of a kind works.”

Billy asked, “Why didn’t he sell them to save his church?”

Tamsyn shrugged, “You’d have to ask him.”

A large oil painting filled the wall behind the rector’s desk. The image showed several bodies on the ground while a nearby black-clad priest appeared to be performing a rite. One of his hands touched a kneeling woman’s bosom. The other was raised to the heavens. Onlookers watched in horror, fear evident on their faces as the faint outline of a foul-looking apparition flew out of the woman’s body.

Tamsyn asked, “Do you like the painting?”

“What is it called?”

“I call it 'The Lady in Red' but I don’t know its real name. From the man’s writings, it was clear the rector had an obsession with the occult and exorcisms. Most of the books in this room concern the subject.”

Billy couldn’t stop staring at the image. “It gives me the creeps.”
“Yeah. It’s grown on me over the years.”

Billy shook his head, “Is the painting as old as the books?”

Tamsyn said, “I have no idea. Maybe? Probably? I don’t know. The artist didn’t sign his work. I do know most of the books in here are hundreds of years old. A majority date to the era of the Salem Witch Trials. A few are most likely older. Some have writing so faint it’s hard to make out the words.”

A large tome lay on the rector’s desk opened to its title page. “The Grand Grimoire?”

Tamsyn nodded, “I know a bit about the history of that one. The original sits in secret Catholic vaults inside the Vatican. The reactor must have known some very powerful people to get a copy.”

Billy said, “I’m surprised no one has tried to steal it.”

Tamsyn said, “Hence the bar on the door. Besides, I doubt anyone knows it’s here.”

Billy said, “I know it’s here.”

Tamsyn grinned, “Are you going to try to steal my books, Billy?”

Billy shook his head. “I’m surprised you showed it to me.”

Tamsyn put her hand on Billy’s shoulder. “It’s like I said earlier. You’re a special boy Billy. I have a good feeling about you.”

The hairs on the back of Billy’s neck stood as Tamsyn spoke. He backed away from the desk, “I think I’ve seen enough.”

Tamsyn asked, “Is everything ok?”

Billy shook his head, “I don’t feel so good.”

Tamsyn said, “Would you like some water and some aspirin? Or maybe you’d prefer Gunther bring us some lemonade.”

“No.” The thought of drinking anything made Billy want to hurl. “Combining wine and champagne might have been a bad idea.” He pulled off the cloak and night robe to find a fine layer of sweat covering his body.

“Are you cold?”

“No.” Billy shook his head. “I’m hot.” He should be freezing cold in this drafty house wearing only a chemise and bloomer. “Is this room extra hot?”

Tamsyn gave Billy a curious look. “It feels fine to me.”

He stared at Tamsyn, wearing nothing but women’s underwear and feeling his panic grow. It was the first time he’d ever allowed someone to see him dressed in this fashion. “I should go.”

Tamsyn moved between Billy and the door. “My husband was a cross-dresser and hid that part of himself from me for a long time. Our relationship didn’t improve until he broke down and told me the truth.”

“I’m not…” Billy tried to walk out but Tamsyn intercepted him, and being stronger than she appeared, held him fast in a bear hug. “… you don’t understand.”

Tamsyn whispered in Billy’s ear. “There’s nothing wrong with you.” Billy fell to the floor when she let him go.

Billy thought of his Mother’s closet. Memories of the shame. “I’m a freak.”

“You’re not.”

Billy stared out the door. He wanted to run. He wanted to hide. “The guys said you’d make me a man if I came here. I hoped maybe …”

“I can’t change who you are, Billy.”

“My Eddie pushed his desire behind a handsome smile and an athletic body but no one can hide from themselves forever.”

“No one can know. If anyone saw me dressed like this…” Tears flowed from Billy’s eyes.

“Do your schoolmates call you names? Things like queer … faggot … sissy?”

Billy nodded.

“Kids are so predictable and so cruel. Only the truly brave among us can rise above the pressure of conformity and become the person we were meant to be.”

Billy nodded. “If they saw me like this…”

“The teasing would never stop.” Tamsyn nodded, “My husband was six years old the first time he discovered the joys of his Mom’s closet. It didn’t matter if money allowed him to cover his secret.”

A puddle of tears lay at Billy’s feet.

Tamsyn put her arm around Billy, “A mind can deny its true self for a limited time. My Eddie hid behind the facade of an alpha male. He even joined the army when the nation went to war.”

“Your husband was a soldier?”

Tamsyn nodded, “The horror of what he saw broke him. When the authorities found Eddie, he was living in a whorehouse, dressed like one of the girls. My father-in-law paid a small fortune to destroy all records of the arrest to hide his son’s secrets but I don’t think he and Eddie ever spoke about it. It took me a few years to discover the truth but an attentive wife always learns her husband’s secrets. Learning them allowed me to understand Eddie in a way I never could before and in the end, find the depths of our love.”

“My situation is different.” Billy looked down. “You don’t understand.”

Tamsyn said, “I understand better than you think.”

Billy’s hands began to shake, “I can’t let anyone find out.”

“Trust me, Billy.” Tamsyn took Billy’s hand. “I understand.” She pulled him tight to her breast. “Would you like to see my husband’s closet? I’m sure he has some things that will fit you.”

“Your husband’s clothes?” Billy shook his head. “I can’t. I’m sure my friends are getting worried.”
Tamsyn gave Billy a look. “Do you really think your friends are worried you’re spending too much time with me? If anything, they’re jealous.”

“I guess.” Billy thought for a second and had to agree. “I’m surprised Rocky hasn’t come up here and looked in a window.”

“I hope he doesn’t try. Gunther isn’t much of a housekeeper but he is quite good at keeping the unwanted guests from appearing at my door.”

“I bet.” Billy thought of the hulking mass of a man, “But I do need to go. I’m sure my parents are getting worried.”

“Aren’t you forgetting something?” She pointed at Billy’s crotch.

Billy looked down to see he was still wearing bloomers. “Shit.”

Tamsyn said, “Gunther should finish your pants in the next hour. In the meantime we could visit the solarium if you don’t want to try on clothing. I’ve got the telescope set up – did you know tonight’s the night of a Hunter’s Moon? – there’s not many clouds so we should get a great look.” Tamsyn stared at Eddie’s crotch, “And once we’re done, you and I can have sex under the stars.”

Billy looked down and felt nothing. If anything it looked like his penis had shrunk. “Anything is better than staying in this room.”

Tamsyn pointed to the stairs on the left as they exited the library. “Those stairs will take you. I’ll be right behind you.”

Chapter 12

March, 1921

Jenny smiled, “You’ve done amazing things with this place. It looks like the whole town is coming tonight.”

Dozens of fancy cars already filled the new parking lot and people had started parking on the grass. Tamsyn watched from the second story porch as more headlights made their way up the winding hill.

“People want a place to drink and to dance.”

“You should take some credit.”

Tamsyn turned and smiled when she saw Eddie had joined them. She took his hand.

Eddie squeezed her hand gently, “Every man wants a beautiful woman on his arm.”

Jenny looked skeptical, “I’m starting to think this place isn’t much different than my new workplace. It’s the same as always but in fancier dress.”

Eddie said, “I could ask Dad to take you back.”

“I doubt Jenny will agree.” Tamsyn laughed, “She’s making double the salary you paid her at her new job.”

Eddie said, “Money isn’t everything.”

Jenny said, “That’s easy to say when you have money.”

Eddie adjusted the pink corsage on his black tuxedo, “You could bring some work friends here if you want.” He pulled on the edge of his bowtie to straighten it. “The more the merrier.”

Jenny gave a surprised look. “Really?”

Eddie said, “I doubt this crowd will mind.”

Tamsyn sighed. She knew who’d get the blame.

The smell of cigars and whiskey filled the air. Gentlemen in tuxedos and women in gowns filled the elegant ballroom. Tamsyn floated down the stairs in a gown meant to capture everyone’s attention. It did that and more.

Gunther asked, “Is something wrong, ma’am?”

Tamsyn said, “No. I’m nervous. There’s a lot of people here.”

Gunther’s face remained impassive, “You’ll be fine ma’am. The caterers have set out a spread worthy of a king, the booze is flowing, and the band is about to start playing. All we need is someone to kick things off.”

Tamsyn looked up the stairs towards her husband’s room. She’d hoped he might stick around, but she should have known better. Every eye in the room watched as her long gown floated down the stairs behind her.

“Welcome. Welcome. Welcome.” Tamsyn’s voice boomed out over the crowd as she waited for them to settle down. “Welcome to our home.” She smiled when Eddie’s face appeared from above, leaning against the second floor railing.

She pointed towards him. “My husband and I thank you for coming tonight. This house is his dream, and I’m glad he’s able to share it with good friends from our town.”

Tamsyn looked out at the group she’d referred to as their friends. She knew most had come here for the free booze. As a business leader it was important for Eddie to socialize.

She pointed to the table full of food. “Eat up.” The line of people told they needed no encouragement.

She pointed to the bar. “The booze is on us. Soo...” A cheer drowned out her words. She pointed to the band. “Hit it maestro.”

Seconds later, the pounding beat of a drummer announced the start of the dancing.

When Tamsyn looked up at the second floor balcony, she saw Eddie had disappeared.

Jenny asked, “Is everything ok?”

Tamsyn nodded. She’d given up trying to change him. He was spending more and more time at work and less and less with her. All she wanted was for him to be happy but pointless to complain. Others had it worse.

Tamsyn turned to Jenny. “Want to join me on the dance floor?”

“I thought you’d never ask.

A dozen men followed them as did the single girls lucky enough to score an invite. Before long, Tamsyn found herself dancing a foxtrot with Stewy who’d clearly taken lessons since their last dance.

Everything was okay. It was more than okay. Their life was perfect. Tamsyn repeated the thought again and again. A lie isn’t a lie if you repeat it enough times to believe it.

“Eddie?” Tamsyn put a key in the lock and opened the door. Eddie sat at his dressing table.

“People are starting to leave. Are you sure you don’t want to clean up and come downstairs?”

“I can’t.” Eddie’s face was covered with a mixture of powers, cremes, and colorings making him look quite feminine.

“You’ve gotten good at that.”

Eddie sighed. “I can’t change who I am, Tamsyn.”

She pushed down her anger. “I’m not asking you to change.”

The sound of footsteps in the hall put an end to their discussion. Tamsyn ran to secure the door’s lock, before the interloper entered, finding herself and Jenny hitting the door at the same time. Both ended up on the floor. Jenny laughed through glazed eyes.

“I shot I shaw you cum in ‘ere.”

“Get out of here, Jenny.” Tamsyn pulled on her friend’s arm as Eddie turned to hide his face.

Jenny had drunk enough for two parties, clearly nearing the pass out stage but she wasn’t so inebriated as to make her blind. “Eddish?”

Eddie stood, his face full of fury as he looked at Tamsyn. “I told you this party was a mistake.”

Tamsyn tried to step between her friend and her husband. “I’m sorry.”

Jenny said, “You wook amashzing Eddiesh.”

Eddie wasn’t listening, “My life is ruined.”

“Jenny is good at keeping secrets, aren’t you Jenny?” Tamsyn said, pushing back the memory of Jenny’s morning gossip sessions at the factory.

Jenny’s brain was too pickled to respond. “You wok rike won of does girlsh at da burlecksh.”

Eddie looked at Jenny then looked at Tamsyn, “Ruined…”

“Jenny.” Tamsyn shouted, hoping to wake her friend from her stupor. “Promise Eddie you won’t say anything about the way he’s dressed. It’s a prank. A lark. Do you understand me?”

Eddie stood, the full length sequined dress brushing the floor.

Jenny bowed before him, “...herro Lady Ed-mina.” Her words fell into a jumble.

Eddie looked at Tamsyn. “Ruined. It’s all ruined.”

Jenny shook her head. “... you rook amuzshing …”

Eddie said, “Bah!”

Jenny looked like she was trying to sound as serious. “I knows abut you nnndd Adam. He toooold meee everyshing.”

“Everything?”

Jenny shrugged, “My Adam wush a must bootiful manz.”

“Why don't you hate me?”

“You luvved him.”

Eddie said, “You weren’t there.”

Jenny ran to Eddie and fell into his arms. “I mish Adam. Tell meez. Will yu tell meee wut happund?”

“I can’t.”

“Pleeeezsh.”

Tamsyn watched as her husband fell to his knees and Jenny fell down with him. They lay in each others arms for a good ten minutes as tears fell from their faces. Eddie spoke in a slow cadence. “I see the whole thing every time I close my eyes. One whistle to charge. Two whistles to retreat. I blew the whistle twice but they didn’t stop. My friends fell one by one.”

“Thatchs it? A wishshul?”

"They couldn't hear me." Eddie nodded. “Something so stupid and now they're dead. All dead.”

“Itsh ok, Ed-dy. I dont blaim you.”

“I’m here and Adam isn’t.”

“You luvved hem. We bowf did."”

Tamsyn watched as her best friend and her husband lay on the floor. The first kiss was a kiss exchanged between friends. The second was more intense. Years of unresolved emotions flowed between them as both tried to make sense of the senseless. Tamsyn knew it was time to go when Eddie grabbed for Jenny’s tits.

It’d been two years since the Battle of Bellicourt. As far as Tamsyn knew, this was the first time Eddie had told anyone what had happened. Doctors had worked for years to get Eddie to talk about it. Tamsyn never pried, the doctors told her it would make things worse. Jenny gets drunk and Tamsyn's femmed-up husband spills his guts.

Tamsyn exited the room as quiet as she could. She had guests.

“Is everything ok, ma’am?”

Tamsyn wiped away a tear before turning to the door. “Don’t call me ma’am, Gunther. It makes me feel old.”

“Of course, ma’am.” Gunther’s face remained impassive.

Tamsyn sighed. “I thought the party went well.”

“I did too. The staff and I will be up half the night cleaning.”

Tamsyn said, “Give them the night off. The cleaning can wait until morning.”

“Are you sure?”

Tamsyn looked towards the bed and then motioned for Gunther to get in. “I’m sure.”

Chapter 13

The circular stairs to the third floor were much steeper than the ones they’d used to get to Tamsyn's bedroom. A brass handrail made it easier to climb, but the wood creaked with every step.

Billy called out. “How old are these stairs?”

Tamsyn called back. “They’re plenty strong, but watch your step. It gets steeper near the top, and it’d be a shame if you fell and broke your neck.”

Tamsyn wasn’t kidding about it getting steeper. The stairs were more like a ladder, flush with the wall which made it hard for light to reach the area on the brightest of days. At this hour, it was almost pitch black. Billy reached for the next rung and found himself floating into the blackness as a cold chill pressed from below.

“Tamsyn!”

“I’m right behind you, Billy. You’re doing great.”

Billy tried to breathe, but the chill of the night grew darker. “I can’t see a thing.”

“You’re almost there.”

Billy stepped and he pulled, then felt something solid, using it to pull himself up the final part.

“You made it.”

Billy couldn’t see a thing but heard Tamsyn following.

“Is that you, Tamsyn?”

He got no answer, only the flash of a lighter, which blinded him for a moment. Billy closed then reopened his eyes seeing a faint red dot at the end of Tamsyn’s ridiculously long cigarette holder. It grew bright, showing her face for a second, then disappeared as the hallway plunged again into darkness.

“Who else would it be?”

Billy asked, “Where are the candles? It's pitch black.”

Tamsyn lit one candle with her lighter and then another. “Gunther doesn't t come up here.”

“Oh?” A chill ran up Billy’s spine.

"Few people are allowed up here." Tamsyn said, “This place was my husband’s refuge, his sanctuary from the world. I’ve tried to keep it that way since he passed.”

Billy nodded, looking around the hallway. It was filled with paintings and sculptures, each one more beautiful than the last. But there was something unsettling about the whole place. It was as if the art had a life of its own.

Tamsyn noticed Billy’s discomfort. “Don’t worry, Billy. My husband’s art collection can be quite intimidating at first.”

“I’ve never seen anything like this,” Billy said, studying a painting of a woman with eyes that seemed to follow him as he walked past.

“That’s one of my favorites,” Tamsyn said. “It’s called ‘The Lady of the Night Sky.’”

“It’s beautiful,” Billy said, his unease not lessening in the least.

Looking up the dimly lit hallway, a feeling of curiosity and fear grew as shivers shot down his spine.

Tamsyn took his hand to lead him through the hallway. In the distance Billy a few candles flickered on the walls. They passed a door that was slightly ajar. Inside moonlight streamed in from every window.

“Was that the solarium?” Billy asked.

“I want you to see something in my husband’s bedroom.”

Tamsyn pulled Billy along, past another series of ornate doors which must lead to more bedrooms. All the doors had old fashioned locks and all appeared to be in use. Tamsyn stopped in front of a door near the end of the hall, and produced an odd looking key from her pocket.

“Here we are,” she said, putting the key in the lock and opening the door.

The image of the girl in the picture faded, it looked like it was a hundred years old.

“That’’s you?”

“Yes.”

“Did you put the picture through the wash?”

Tamsyn smiled, “This picture started everything.”

The photographer must have used a vintage photo filter to age it. “Is it from your wedding day?”

Tamsyn shook her head. “It was taken a year later. Eddie was overseas and asked me to send him a nudey picture so I sent him that.”

Billy said, “It looks good. You look amazing.” He held up the picture and compared it to Tamsyn’s face. Even in black and white it appeared like she hadn’t aged a day.

Tamsyn walked into the closet. “That picture caused a scandal when it resurfaced.”

“Seriously?” Billy had seen dozens of worse pictures of girls from school who’d sent selfies to their boyfriends.

Tamsyn threw out a pair of heels out of the closet, which landed on the floor. “Times have changed since I was in school.”

Billy stared at the picture. The girl staring back had a brightness in her dark eyes. Long black hair framed her face. “There’s something different about you in this picture.”

“I was seventeen.”

“It’s not that.”

Tamsyn exited the closet holding a white dress. “Does this look familiar?”

Billy looked at the picture and then back to the dress. “Same one?”

Tamsyn nodded. “I bring it out on special occasions.” She held it up, the soft fabric brushing against Billy’s skin. “I thought you might want to try it on.”

“That dress will never fit me.”

“You might be surprised. My husband made alterations so it would fit him.” She pointed at several cut marks on the back and others on the front.

“Wow. What’s that?”

“My husband made those on our wedding night. It took me two hours to get into the thing. He got me out of it in under a minute using his combat knife.”

“Damn.”

Tamsyn held it up. “Step into the dress.”

Billy stepped in..

“Put your arms through the sleeves.”

Billy did that too.

Tamsyn pulled the material around on both sides. “The day of my wedding a seamstress sewed me into this damned thing. It was so tight, I didn’t eat a bite the week of our wedding to make sure it looked good.”

“Your wedding sounds amazing.”

Tamsyn nodded. “It was a happy day. Eddie and me. My Mom and the McClary’s. All our friends from high school were there.” She sighed. “We thought it would last forever.”

“I’m sure.” Billy nodded, not sure what else to say.

Tamsyn took a deep breath. “Today is a happy day too.”

“It is?”

“I find it’s always a good day when someone starts to accept the truth of their nature.” Tamsyn smiled.

“I guess.”

Tamsyn said, “Let’s do your make-up.”

Chapter 14

September, 1921

A line of people stood outside waiting to get in as the band played another jazz tune.

Stewy shouted over the mob, “It’s hard to believe you and Eddie run this place.”

“Why’s it so hard?”

Stewy said, “I can’t imagine being in charge of something so … fancy.”

Tamsyn drew on her cigarette. She could tell he wanted to use a word other than ‘fancy’, “It wasn’t so hard. Contractors fixed up the place and I’ve got an amazing house manager who keeps the staff in line. Jenny and her contacts do the rest.”

“You aren’t you worried?”

Tamsyn pointed to a man on a couch holding a cigar and a glass of champagne. Two pretty young girls sat on either side of him, “That’s the chief of police over there. The man has a specific kink that his wife could never satisfy, and the public would never understand.” She pointed to a man talking to Jenny. “Do you know that guy?”

Billy shook his head.

“That’s Manny Brown. Do you recognize the name?”

Billy shook his head again.

“You would if you ran a place like this.” Tamsyn smiled. “He runs the Dixie Brotherhood.”

Billy’s eyes widened. “A criminal?”

Tamsyn nodded. “It’s the way of the world, Billy.”

Stewy raised an eyebrow. “You’re not afraid of getting caught?”

Tamsyn flicked her cigarette into an ashtray. “We have good connections, we’re out of sight, and we pay well. Eddie’s Dad owns half the businesses in town and all the politicians. Mother McClary isn’t happy, but everyone can see Eddie is happier than he’s been in a long time. We’re doing great.”

Stewy shifted uncomfortably. “I don’t know, Tamsyn. It seems risky.”

Tamsyn put a hand on his shoulder. “It’s not riskier than any other way of making a living. It’s certainly more exciting.”

Stewy nodded slowly. “I suppose you’re right.”

The band finished their song, and the crowd erupted into applause. The singer took a bow, and the band started playing another tune.

Tamsyn smiled. “Of course I am, Stewy.” She raised her glass. “Would you like to dance?”

The young man smiled. “I thought you’d never ask.”

Stewy nodded eagerly, and Tamsyn led him out onto the dance floor. The two moved in sync with the music. Tamsyn felt alive. She felt something else when she pressed close to his waist.

“Stewy…” Tamsyn cooed, “I didn’t know you thought of me like that.”

The boy blushed.

Truth be told, Tamsyn didn’t like to drink alcohol but she loved to dance and drinking and dancing went together like peas and carrots. To get crowds to dance, you needed alcohol. To get alcohol, you needed Manny Brown. To get Manny Brown meant adding vice. Do not disturb signs hung from half the rooms in the building, each with one of Manny’s girls inside. Jenny surprised everyone with her deft handling of the whole thing. The kickbacks they received was enough to make a payoff to every politician in the city so they could keep it running.

And there were fringe benefits.

Tamsyn whispered in Stewy’s ear. “Meet me in Room 203.

“Really?”

“Be there in five minutes.”

Jenny stood on the stage and waited for the crowd to settle down. “Next… fresh from her appearances at Nashville’s Smokey Row … and making her triumphant return to our stage … Della Rose.”

The crowd roared when the feather bespectacled woman appeared, a long crimson dress hugging wide curves, and long curly blonde hair cascading down her back. When she turned to the crowd, the band hit their cue, and began to play her signature tune.

“Grab a drink and take a seat, the show’s about to start,
I’ve got a tale of passion sweet, about a friendly heart,
With hips which sway like ocean waves,
And lips as red a wine,
This melody will tempt you,
of forbidden dreams divine.”
So don’t be shy and close your eyes.
Let our fantasy unwind.

Men swayed with the music, their fascination with the moving feathers holding them in a trance. It didn’t seem possible a simple mind trick could fool a crowd this large, but after several tests they brought Eddie’s act to the main stage. Tamsyn couldn’t help a twinge of jealousy at seeing her husband dominate the entire room with the power of his voice.

I’ll make every dream come true, you need just to come inside
My boudoir holds the key, my dears, to pleasure satisfied.
Just tell me all your deepest fears and let me take control.
For pleasure is a fleeting act, to make us all feel full.
The acts we do both here and now, grow fainter day by day.
Tomorrow comes and dreams be gone, but never go away.

Stewy said, “She’s amazing.”

Tamsyn watched as Eddie made his way off the stage, the crowd none the wise. “Do you recognize her?”

“Della?” Stewy shook his head. “You say she’s from Nashville? I don’t get up there much.”

“Me neither.” Tamsyn nodded. “They loaned her to us for a special appearance. It cost a fortune to get her down here.”

“I bet.”

Eddie’s acts fired up the town’s leading men who’d abandoned the ball room en masse, now headed for a visit with one of Manny Brown’s girls.

Tamsyn asked, “Would you like to meet Della?”

“Sure.”

“Follow me.” Tamsyn weaved through the crowd and found Eddie holding court with his fans near the back of the stage.

“Della … this is Stewy Baldwin. Stewy … this is Della Rose.”

Eddie gave a curtsy and a half bow. “Charmed.”

Stewy’s eyes grew wide and he gave a bow. “You’re amazing, Della Rose.”

Eddie smiled. “Thank you, young man.”

Eddie spoke with a smoky high pitched voice he’d practiced for years. Tamsyn hadn’t seen a smile this big on her husband’s face since the day they first met. “That was quite a song.”

Eddie said, “I worked on it all week.”

Tamsyn looked at the dance floor. “You cleared out the crowd.”

“They’ll be back. I have another set in a half hour.”

“You’re getting pretty cocky Ed…elle.” The name had started as a little joke between Tamsyn and Eddie, soon becoming the name they used when he dressed ‘en femme’ in front of the staff. It had been one of their tests before going public but none of them seemed to be able to link the name with the person behind the makeup or if they had, they’d hid it very well.

Eddie turned with fear in his eyes.

Stewy looked Eddie and then at Tamsyn. “Edelle? Is that your real name?”

“I’m so sorry, Della.” Tamsyn said in mock embarrassment. “Della Rose is her stage name. Don’t tell anyone her real name. She values her privacy and you know how some fans can get.”

“Of course.” Stewy nodded, “I won’t tell a soul … Della.” He winked. “It’ll be between us.”

Eddie didn’t say a word as he retreated to the stage, grabbing the microphone. He tapped it three times causing all eyes to stop what they were doing turn and look.

“Is everyone having a good time tonight?”

The crowds shouted back in drunken cheer.

Eddie turned, his focus directly on Tamsyn, “I want to thank the lady of the house for all she’s done to put together tonight’s festivities.” Eddie smiled. “I’m forever in your debt.”

Tamsyn looked out over the crowd as they returned a smattering of applause.

Eddie didn’t say anything for a moment, seeming lost in thought.

Someone from the crowd shouted. “Give us a song.”

Eddie woke from his stupor. “It’s not time for my set but …”

Crowd cheered, then began to chanting. “Song… song… song…”

“Well … if you insist.” giving a broad smile. “This one’s for you Tamysn.”

The crowd watched in rapt attention as Eddie focused on giving them Della once again. His words came out sweet and sultry.

“This melody will tempt you, of forbidden dreams divine. Don’t be shy and close your eyes. And let the fantasy unwind.”

Stewy said, “She’s amazing.”

Tamsyn nodded, “She really is.”

Tamsyn sensed the presence enter her room. She asked, “Is everyone gone?”

“Most everyone. A few always like to stay past their welcome, and it’s best to handle certain personalities with care.”
Tamsyn nodded. “Of course.” She’d changed into a nightgown, foregoing underwear of any kind.

“I saw you with the boy.”

Tamsyn said, “Stewy?”

“Yeah.”

Tamsyn asked, “Jealous?”

“Not in the least. I like watching other men fuck you.”

Tamsyn laughed. Stewy wasn’t bad in bed, but didn’t have Gunther’s gifts.

Tamsyn patted the bed beside her, and tearing open her robe to reveal both breasts. “Come and warm me, Gunther.”

“Are you sure, madam?”

“Don’t play games, Gunther.”

Gunther took his time, first shutting the door then taking off his shirt, shoes, and pants. Tamsyn knew he was trying to tease her, but she liked to take it slow. She smiled when the man’s strong arms grabbed her shoulders.

“Would you like me to fuck you now, ma’am?”

Gunther’s cock was already seven inches, and a single touch from her would make it grow to its full twelve. Tamsyn drew back the first time she’d seen it. Now, she couldn’t get enough. She’d bedded dozens of other men in the last year, but no one else came close to this man’s skill.

“Fuck me, Gunther.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

The preacher’s car took a long time to climb the slope. Tamsyn had a tray with two glasses and wine bottle waiting on the porch by the time he arrived.

She asked, “Has this place become such a den of sin you’ve chosen to visit on a Sunday?”

“No, just out for a drive. We did miss you at church today.” Tamsyn saw the man staring at the glass of wine on her table. “You have a pretty view.”

“You’ve never been up here?”

Preacher Stevens stared towards his church. “Nope. First time.”

Tamsyn said, “Have you come up here to scold me about our parties?”

Preacher Stevens shook his head. “People think men like me have all the answers. God knows that’s not the case. I have a responsibility to the community, and I do the best I can. The same is true of you and Eddie.”

Tamsyn needled the man, “You say you didn’t come to scold?”

“That’s not my intent.” Preacher Stevens sighed, “I do wonder if the leading citizens of a town flaunt their ability to act against the rules, what does that say to those who don’t have your advantages. Where does it end?”

“I don’t know.” Tamsyn took a deep breath, proud she didn’t return any snark. “I’m sure you’ve seen the changes in Eddie. He’s done better in the last six months than he did seeing a dozen specialists and sitting through hundreds of sermons.”

Preacher Stevens nodded, “Like I said… I don’t have all the answers.”

Tamsyn held up her glass. “Care for a drink?”

Preacher Stevens said, “I’ve got to go. The evening service starts in a few hours.”

“Of course.” Tamsyn decided to up the ante. “You can take the bottle if you want.”

Preacher Stevens gave a tired smile, “Trying to tempt me?”

“Just pointing out the hypocrisy.”

Preacher Stevens shook his head. “Wine meant for the sacrament is not against the law.”

Tamsyn said, “Would you prefer I send a case?”

“If that’s what you want, Tamsyn. The church is always grateful for donations. You know the address and you are always welcome at god’s house.” Preacher Stevens smiled, “Now, I must be going. There are lots of lost souls in this town and limited hours in a day.”

Tamsyn watched as the preacher’s car moved down the hill, not sure if his visit was to scold them for their parties or a shakedown to procure another case of wine. It was probably best not to know.

Chapter 15

“I can’t believe how good this feels.” Billy shook his head. It was the first time he’d ever crossdressed in front of another person.

Tamsyn didn’t appear judgemental. “It looks good on you.”

Billy nodded, “The silk feels amazing on my skin.”

“You don’t want to know how much it cost.”

“I’m sure I don’t.” Billy stood up, material pulling at his legs, but not enough to impair him. He barely recognized himself with the way Tamsyn painted his face. “I look like a girl.”

“You are a girl, Billy.”

Billy ran his hand through his hair. “It feels so real.”

“It is real hair. The wigs my husband bought used real human hair. They’re prohibitively expensive, but once you’ve tried them, nothing else will do.”

Billy twirled in his shoes.

Tamsyn said, “I see you’ve practiced walking in heels.”

“Only when Mom and Dad aren’t around.”

“Of course.”

Billy’s smile grew. “I feel so … different.”

Tamsyn said, “That’s because you’re letting the real you out, Billy. You’ve spent your life hiding from the world.”

“I can’t…”

Tamsyn nodded. “I understand Billy. My husband was afraid to show himself to the world and lived in a pit of darkness so deep and for so long no one recognized his vibrant spirit when it finally emerged from its shell. We need to show you off to the world.”

“What?”

Tamsyn pulled Billy out the door, leading him out of the room and down the hallway.

The light filling the solarium struck him dumb with its beauty. The walls were made of glass, giving a view of the countryside in every direction. Tamsyn led him to a plush couch in the center of the room, next to a table holding several ashtrays full of discarded cigarettes.

Tamsyn handed Billy a glass of champagne. “Let’s drink to new beginnings.”

Billy looked up. A full moon and millions of stars shone down from above, and trees surrounded them in every direction. His friends waited in those woods, surely drunk by now. He hoped they weren’t so drunk they’d forgotten the binoculars. Because if they turned their binoculars on this room, they’d see a woman.

And nothing made Billy happier.

Chapter 16

November, 1921

Tamsyn and Eddie sat on their porch when the car began to climb the slope.

“Are we expecting your parents today?”

Eddie shook his head. “They aren’t supposed to come over until Sunday.”

Tamsyn smiled at her husband. His nighttime shouts from the solarium had grown less frequent. The extra rest brought color back to his face.

She pointed down the hill. “That’s their car, isn’t it?”

Eddie nodded once, then looked over at Tamsyn. Tamsyn motioned to Gunther.

“Be a dear, and get someone to prepare us a light meal. Finger sandwiches, cookies, and tea would be perfect.”

Gunther asked, “No wine?”

Tamsyn looked at Eddie, who shook his head. “No wine.”

Gunther bowed, “Of course, ma’am.”

The car inched closer and closer but coming closer every second.

Eddie had claimed this hill was so steep, he and his buddies could have held this hill against a battalion of Germans. Tamsyn sighed. Surely she could hold it against one bitter old woman?

Mrs. McClary stormed into the house.

Tamsyn said, “Gunther. Please take her coat.” She felt Eddie put his arm around her in a protective manner.

“No need, Gunther.” Mrs. McClary’s face looked scarlet as she stormed into the sitting room. “I won’t be staying long.” She stared at her son. “Leave us Eddie, Tamsyn and I need to speak. Alone.”

Eddie gave Tamsyn a look and she nodded. He took a step back, retreating behind the room’s double doors. Gunther pulled them shut.

Mrs. McClary tossed something on the table. “Would you care to explain this?”

Tamsyn’s heart sank when she saw it. It had been years. The picture had frayed around the edges but the image was clear. It was a girl in her wedding dress, the top half pulled down to her waist, with boobs on full display.

“I …”Tamsyn cried out, “… I can explain.”

“Save it.”

Tamsyn said, “There’s an innocent explanation.”

Venom spit as Mrs. McClary’s spoke. “How dare you call this innocent!” The woman stood, the judgement clear on her face. “I’ve been right all along. You think I haven’t been hearing the stories of your whoring? You’ve dishonored this family again and again. For years, I have tried to get my husband to do something, but he’s always protected you, and I could never understand why.”

“I sent that picture to Eddie during the war.”

“Lying whore!”

Tamsyn stared at the picture. The image was exactly as she remembered. She still had the wedding dress. Her face had matured, and she did her hair in a different style these days, but it was her. “How did you get this?”

Mrs. McClary said, “I know you worked a lot of late nights with my husband. I’ve always known you were rotten to the core but I figured there were lines a whore like you wouldn’t cross.”

“What are you talking about?”

Mrs. McClary, “You slept with my husband.”

The comment took a moment to process in Tamsyn’s brain and when it did, she laughed out loud.

“Hahahahahaha…” The response caused Mrs. McClary’s face to grow apoplectic. “Are you crazy!” Tamsyn shouted, “We never… He’d never… Mr. McClary is a father to me.”

Mrs. McClary said, “You never had a father, you no-good, simple-minded, tramp. Your Mom was a two-bit whore who got knocked up by a criminal. And you’ve turned out worse than either of them.”

Tamsyn said, “My father?”

Mrs. McClary’s face twisted itself into a snarl. “Did you ever wonder why your mother never told your father’s name? He got pregnant while working in a whorehouse. She didn’t know the man’s name.”

“That’s not true. My Momma… she insisted I always be a good girl … she insisted I …”

Mrs. McClary had held this nugget for years, waiting for the right moment to spring it. “I had investigators check out all the girls Eddie dated.
When I told him the truth of your birth, it steeled his resolve to date you.”

“That’s a lie.”

“Ask him. I dare you.” Mrs. McClary gave an arrogant grin.

Tamsyn said, “I’ve had investigators look for my father. They didn’t find anything about my mother’s past.”

“I wonder why?” Mrs. McClaryI looked more smug if it were possible. “I did what any mother would do in my situation. I had the authorities gather all the records of your mother’s arrests and hid them away. We couldn’t have any embarrassment coming back on the family through the association. It was a bless for all she died from the Spanish Flu.”

Tamsyn felt the rage build. “You need to leave.”

“I did it to protect my son. I’ve told him a thousand times to leave you but it’s like you’ve woven a spell over him.”

“Fuck you.”

Mrs. McClary didn’t say a word as the self-satisfied smile sat on her face.

“Gunther!” Tamsyn’s rage quaked her bones. “Escort Mrs. McClary to her car. She is leaving.”

Gunther opened the door and looked at both women.

Mrs. McClary picked up the photo and held it in the air. “We’re not finished with this discussion. Not by a long shot. You’re finished in this town.”

Tamsyn’s Raceabout screamed down the hill going well over sixty by the time she reached the bottom. Pre-war cars were no longer in fashion, but it reminded her of simpler times. Thankfully the car hadn’t lost a bit of speed.

She passed Mrs. McClary well before she reached the bottom of the hill, but didn’t give her the satisfaction of looking. Her car sped across town, passing the McClary factory just before stopping in front of their recently built mansion.

Hazel asked, “Hello Miss Tamsyn. Is the master expecting you?”

“I need to see him.”

“It’s ok, Hazel. Mr. McClary called from the top of the stairs. Tamsyn could see he had been drinking. “Let’s talk in my study.”

Tamsyn did her best not to scream. Mr. McClary sat down in a big chair near the fireplace. The table next to the chair held an ashtray with a half smoked cigar, a half-full decanter of brandy, and an empty glass.

“Can I get you something to drink?”

“Tamsyn ignored him, “Do you know why I’m here.”

Mr. McClary nodded, “Yeah.”

“Do you know your wife visited me?”

Mr. McClary nodded, “Yeah.”

“She had a picture. A very private picture of me. Do you know where she got it?”

Mr. McClary nodded. “Yeah.” He refilled his glass and took a long sip. “The army sent me all of Eddie’s belongings when I paid to get him out of detention.” He reached into his breast pocket and pulled out a stack of carefully bound envelopes.

“My letters?”

Mr. McClary looked down as he laid them on the table. Tamsyn picked up the stack and saw they’d all been opened. Every envelope looked well worn.

“The army opened them?”

“No.” Mr. McClary shook his head.

Tamsyn saw the tears building in Mr. McClary’s eyes. She’d never seen the man cry.

“Eddie chose well when he picked you. We were a good team, you and I. I’d come to rely on you more than I should. My feelings they got… too much. When Eddie came back my feelings started to grow. I knew I had to get away from you.” Mr. McClary took another drink. “I hoped the picture would be enough.”

Tamsyn lay back in her chair. This man … he’d been her mentor. She’d learned so much from him but now … across the table … she saw a broken man. A small man.

“We didn’t do anything wrong.” Tamsyn choked out the words.

“My wife is demanding a divorce.”

“A divorce?” Tamsyn laughed, “Your lawyers would crush her in court.”

“She doesn’t want a divorce from me.” Mr. McClary said, “She wants Eddie to divorce you.”

“No…” Tamsyn laughed then looked to Mr. McClary’s face, “Seriously?”

Mr. McClary nodded, “I wish I were kidding.”

Tamsyn said, “You know your wife belongs in a sanitarium. She is not well. You know it’s true.”

“Of course I know.” Mr. McClary sighed, “But she’s my wife, and I made a vow.”

Tamsyn said, “It’s a simple picture. If you’ve read my letters, you know your son requested it. I did nothing wrong. I’m not ashamed of what I did.”

“She’s threatening to take it to the church and she’s got your Mom’s records. You know what they’ll say if they see it.” Mr. McClary said, “Those righteous bastards have been waiting for an excuse to take you down and you know what happens in a town like this when anger gets stoked. Half the town thinks I stole their businesses during the war. And every time they see Eddie, it reminds them of family members who didn’t come home. Then, there’s the parties...”

“I’m doing them for Eddie.”

Mr. McClary pounded his fist on the table causing the cigar to fly into the air and fall on the ground. “I know why you’re having the parties.”

“You can’t do this.”

“I don’t have a choice. The whole town is looking for an excuse to take the family down, Tamsyn. Don’t you understand?”

“Get your wife to back off? She’s the problem.”

“She is who she is. I make no apologies for her. I think you understand better than most that a successful marriage needs compromise.” Mr. McClary took a deep breath. “I promise. I’ll set you up somewhere nice. You’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

“I want to work!”

Mr. McClary continued, “You’re still young, you’re very pretty, and you don’t have kids. Another man will come along. Someone more worthy of you than my son.”

“Eddie is the best man I’ve ever known!”

“And yet you seek the comfort of other men’s beds.”

“We have an arrangement.”

“Everyone in town knows about your arrangement, Tamsyn. Everyone in town thinks you’ve made him your cuckold.” Mr. McClary lit his cigar and gave it a few vigorous puffs. “Do you make him watch too?”

“That’s not fair.” Tamsyn paused. “It’s not like that. You know the real issue better than anyone.”

“I’ve made my decision, Tamysn.” Mr. McClary sat back in his chair. “My lawyers will draw something up by the end of this week. It will be fair. I promise.”

Tamsyn had watched this man negotiate a thousand contracts. She’s seen the steel in his eyes when he’d made up his mind. She picked up her letters. “These are mine. I’m taking them with me.”

“Of course.”

“Go to hell … boss.”

Tamsyn ran up the stairs and into her room, slamming the door behind her. The door opened a few seconds later.

“You ran off. What’s wrong?” Eddie wore one of his finest cloaks.

Tamsyn shook her head. “It’s nothing.” She needed time. Time to think, to figure things out.

Eddie said, “It’s not nothing. Mother comes to the house then rushes off screaming with you chasing. Now you return, and I find you crying on your bed.”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

Eddie said, “I’m talking to someone about it. Do you want Mom to be the first to tell the story?”

Tamsyn sighed, “She wants us to get a divorce.”

Eddie laughed. “Ha!’

“Father is supporting her. He’s insisting.’

“What?” Eddie’s face turned grim.

Tamsyn turned to face her husband. “He said the lawyers will have the paperwork ready by the end of the week.”

Eddie said, “That’s crazy. I’ll go to talk to him. I’m sure it’s all a big misunderstanding.”

“Don’t.” Her husband’s brow showed the building strain of the argument.

“That can’t happen.” Eddie pulled Tamsyn close. “Our marriage is everything to me. You are my rock. I don’t know what I’d do if you aren’t around.”

“I know but your mother will make life hell if we don’t give in.” Tamsyn shuddered at memories of their argument. She’d tried her best. She’d spent the last four years completely devoted to Eddie but these people had never taken her in. Eddie’s Dad saw her as a trophy to be won. Eddie’s Mom saw her as a threat. “Your Mom is evil, Eddie. You can’t fight evil.”

Eddie’s arms wrapped around Tamsyn’s body, his hands coming to rest on her breasts. She felt herself slump into his grasp, basking in the warmth.

Eddie said, "The others don’t understand our relationship. They don’t understand me. The day I met you was the luckiest of my life. You can’t leave. I won’t survive."

“I know.”

“Ma’am?”

Tamsyn sat in bed smoking a cigarette. “Yes, Gunther?”

“You know how I can sometimes hear the conversations between yourself and Master McClary?.”

“You mean how you like to eavesdrop?”

Gunther shrugged, “If I may be so bold, I think I have a solution to your problem.”

Tamsyn gave Gunther a look. Only an idiot didn’t know the servants weren’t listening in on their conversations. Seen and not heard. Most were smart enough not to bring it up.

“What is it now?”

Gunther said, “I was doing some research.”

Tamsyn said, “You did research in the library without telling me?”

“Yes, ma’am. Sorry, ma’am.”

Tamsyn’s eyes fell to the man’s crotch. Gunther had gotten too comfortable and had started taking too many liberties. Then again, the man had an amazing cock.

“What did you find?”

“I think I have a solution to your mother-in-law problem.”

“Oh?” Tamsyn said.

Gunther’s smile grew bigger. “Would you like to see?”

The contractors didn’t find the library until the end of construction. Not sure what to do with the contents, they’d locked it up for another year until Gunther asked if he could organize the place.

Most of the book looked quite old. Most of them appeared to be quite valuable. The first time they’d entered the room, books had been strewn from one end of the room as if the former occupant had left in a hurry.

They later learned the story of the rector, penned in his own maniac writings. It didn’t take long to figure out most of the books in the room were histories of demons and spirits from long lost civilizations. Some made for good reading, but most were unreadable, written in languages few could understand.

Their discovery of the Grand Grimoire changed everything.

At first, they found the words inside completely undecipherable. The first chapters were written in a foreign language they later determined to be Old English. The purchase of an Old English dictionary helped some with their efforts,but progress was slow.. At first, Tamsyn scoffed at the idea the thing might be a spellbook. The first spell in the book was a blessing for newborn babies. The next rid the land of pestilence, and the one after called on the sky to fill the rivers. Interesting but completely useless for their needs.

Tamsyn didn’t think much of the spell named ‘obscura’ the first time she read it. It was Gunther who came up with the idea. The ingredients were easy to gather. The previous occupant had conveniently left behind a cauldron and the spell’s catalyst. They cast it on Eddie any time he wanted to dress up, and no one in the room recognized him as long as he was out of their presence by midnight.

After the first spell, Tamsyn couldn’t stop. The book had many hidden secrets and she wanted to know more. These days she and Gunther spent most of their afternoons locked behind the closed doors of the library, piecing together clues between lovemaking sessions.

Tamsyn entered the library. “What did you find?”

Gunther opened the Grand Grimoire to a page near the back of the book. Sharp lines and angles covered the page. “I translated this page. It deals with evil.”

Tamsyn said, “What do you mean?”

Gunther said, “You said it yourself. Mrs. McClary is evil. We need to take care of her.”

Tamsyn looked around the room and then out into the hall. She shut the door and locked it just to be sure. She whispered, “Will it hurt her?”

Gunther spoke without emotion, “Do you care?”

“I…” Tamsyn looked at the page. The scribbles didn’t look like any language she’d ever seen. “How did you decipher it?”

Gunther said, “It’s written in an old Elamite script.” He held up a book of translation. “It took me a month to decode.”

Tamsyn stared at the page filled in an ancient script. She hated her mother-in-law, but Gunther’s insinuation was clear. “Have you tested it?”

Gunther shook his head. “This isn’t the type of spell you test.” His stare grew intense, “I gathered the ingredients. I’ve written down the steps. We try or we don’t. It’s your call.”

Tamsyn looked over the translation written in Gunther’s block script, “How long have you been preparing this spell?” The ingredients wasn’t something a person could put together in an afternoon.

“A while.” As usual, Gunther’s face betrayed no emotion.

“Will they be able to trace it to us?”

Gunther shook his head, “It’s magic. She’ll be at her house. You’ll be here. I don’t know how you could be implicated.” He added, “You know if we don’t act, this time next week you’ll be out of this house. I know what I’d do if I were in your shoes.”

Tamsyn nodded. In a week, she’d be on a train away from everything and everyone she’d ever loved. She looked to the heavens, and crossed herself as she fell to her knees. “Please God, tell me what to do. Give me a sign.”

A smile grew on the large man's face. Tamsyn couldn’t remember if she’d ever seen him smile. Gunther asked, “Did you get an answer?”

“No.”

“That’s been my experience too. I lost my faith a long time ago.” Gunther looked up at the ceiling, “I’ve heard the faithful say God helps those who help themselves.”

Tamsyn took a deep breath. “I suppose.” She doubted God would listen to her prayers. It’d been years since she’d been to church. “What do
I need to do?”

Gunther pulled a knife from his pocket. “The spell isn’t so tough. For the first part you need to take off your clothes.”

Tamsyn looked over the translation. “I don’t see that here. Are you trying to trick me into taking off my clothes?”

“Like I’d need to trick you.” Gunther tapped a finger to his temple. “I haven’t written everything down. Parts of the spell are up here.”

The man had already taken off his own shirt. Tamsyn watched him take off his pants and smiled when she saw his growing cock. The thing looked obscene but felt so good. Feeling her gathering heat, she took off her top then pulled down her bloomers until they hit the floor.

“Good.” Gunther grabbed Tamsyn’s right hand, then flashed a blade across her palm. A bright crimson stain appeared on her right hand.

“What the hell…” Tamsyn grabbed her hand.

Gunther didn’t react, “Give me your other hand.”

“No.”

“Do you want to do this spell or not?”

Blood from Tamsyn’s right hand dripped on the floor as she offered her left. Gunther didn’t hesitate as he cut a similar slash across her palm.

“Now do me.” He held out his knife.

“You want me to cut you?”

Gunther nodded, “Twice across the palm. The knife is very sharp. Let it do the work.”

Tamsyn did as instructed. One slash and then another. Their blood dripped into a pool on the floor.

“Take my hand.”

Gunther held both hands in front of his body with palms turned up. Tamsyn put hers on top allowing the blood to mingle. Gunther took a firm grip, power of the man’s grasp causing a slight yelp from Tamsyn’s lips.

“That’s hurts.”

Gunther ignored her. “Now we say the incantation. Lay back on the floor and repeat my words.”

Gunther pressed Tamsyn to the floor, his hardness clear of the next move. “The spell requires we have sex?”

“Don’t pretend like you won’t enjoy it.” Gunther gave a self-assured stare while positioning to impale her. “The spell comes from the era of human sacrifices and orgies.”

Tamsyn asked, “This better not be some weird kink of yours.”

“You can leave at any time.” Gunther rubbed his entire length across her slit.

Tamsyn’s shivered in delight, “Oh god …”

“Is god speaking to you now?”

"Shut up." Tamsyn’s knees went weak as Gunther pressed his tip forward. “AIIIEEEEEE…”

“What was that?” Gunther gave her an infuriating grin. “Do you like that?”

Tamsyn snapped, “Put it in me.” This man had taken too liberties due to their relationship. But this cock…

Gunther shook his head. “Not yet.” He intertwined his fingers with Tamsyn’s. “Tell me you love me.”

Tamsyn sighed, “I love you.”

Gunther said, “Tell me you want your mother-in-law dead.”

Tamsyn loins throbbed as Gunther pressed a little further. “I want that bitch dead.”

Gunther said, “Tell me you’ll do anything to please me.”

Tamsyn answered, “I’ll do anything to please you.”

Gunther said, “Call me master.”

Tamsyn said, “Master?”

Gunther repeated, “You need to beg. You've got to beg for the spell to work.”

Tamsyn wanted to say no but desire replaced rational thought., “Please master. I need you inside me.”

Gunther grinned, “Will you serve me?” He pushed a little further.

Tamsyn screamed, “I’ll serve you Gunther, please … please… please.”

“At the cost of your soul?”

Tamsyn wasn't listening to the words. Her thoughts focused on one thing as Gunther penetrated. “Yes… Oh god! … Yes!!! … YES!!!”

Gunther pressed forward with his entire length but Tamsyn didn’t feel it. She passed out before the end of his first thrust.

Gunther sat at the desk reading the book.

Tamsyn asked, “Did it work?”

“How do you feel?”

Tamsyn looked at her hands. The cuts on her palms had disappeared. “I feel … different.”

Gunther said, “It takes time to adjust.”

Tamsyn said, “What do you mean?”

Gunther turned the Grand Grimoire around, “Read this page.”

Tamsyn looked at the page. At the top she saw the words, ‘Finger of death’. Below it were a list of instructions.

Gunther said, “It is no small thing to kill a person. Eddie’s nightly screams are proof of that.”

Tamsyn read line after line of text “How am I able to understand this? It was gibberish five minutes ago.”

Gunther smiled, “I was like you once upon a time. A simple man with a simple mission to save souls. I built a place of god on a tall hill where people could come and study the gospels. I intended it to become a school of divinity. I gathered books of study hoping to protect people from demons.”

Tamsyn watched as Gunther’s skin turned dark, and his body began to grow. Red eyes pierced the veil of haze.

Tamsyn fell on the floor, “What are you?”

“I built this house.”

“You’re the rector?”

Gunther nodded, “Words cannot express the pain I endured the day of my transformation. I was studying an ancient text and read the wrong passage. The demon lord who emerged from the portal laughed at me when I begged for my life, I happily gave him my soul to make him go away. I had no idea I’d bound myself to him.”

“It took days for my body to adjust. By the time I regained my senses, I found myself in a whorehouse, weak and exhausted. When I returned to my church my skin burst into flame.”

“So I paid a man to plaster up the library then killed him to keep it secret. The nice thing about becoming a demon is it teaches you about patience. I knew someone would buy the place eventually. When you stripped the place of all religious artifacts, I knew I might be able to regain my house as a base of operations. You and your husband were easy to corrupt. A push here and a tug there. It’s amazing the things people will give away when you give them everything they they want.”

Tamsyn couldn’t stand so she tried to scramble across the floor.

“Stop.”

Tamsyn found she couldn’t move. She tried to scream, but no sound came out.

“You are in my service now, Tamysn. I control you and you will do as I say.”

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