User blog:ExdeathsBagel/The Smart Hygenic Devil Bug? (WWYD by Repter)

WWYD by Repter: https://monstergirlencyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Thread:902243

I look at her, stunned by her suddenness.

“You-you don’t have to answer right away. I get it if you’re busy.” The Devil Bug stammers, snapping me out of my stupor.

“No, I’m sorry. Just wasn’t expecting it to be so sudden you know?” Now I was blushing. “I’ll…I’ll think about it, I’m not really free at the moment either.”

While she initially looks rejected, she quickly perks up, “K! Oh, that’s right, I don’t know you’re name yet. Mine’s Courtney, funny that we’ve been neighbors for so long and I don’t even know your name.”

“It’s Thomas.”

Courtney smiles, “Thomas, got it. Well, whenever you’re free, feel free to drop by, my door’s always open for you.” She winks as she closes the door.

I felt a little warm as I turned from her door and went to mine, only a few rows down from across the hall. This was a complex home mainly to mamono, and especially made for the insect variety. It was quite a shock to see a Devil Bug of all people to be so tidy and formal. Maybe what I heard of them was wrong or perhaps at the least a simple stereotype? I think I knew just who to ask about that.

As I was stepping into the living room, I caught Jean exiting her room. Though she was initially lazily buttoning it up, upon seeing me she hurriedly did so. Or at least as fast her she could without the blades on her arms getting in the way, for she was a Mantis. She gave me a light smile with a blush. Normally Mantis’ are very emotionally reserved with the exception of close friends and lovers, and I was grateful to be the formal.

“You’re here earlier than I expected. How was your day?”

“Good, yours?”

“Fine. Well, I’m heading out. Hopefully the people and mamono at the bar can keep their hands to themselves or they’ll have to answer to me.”

“Before you go, can I ask you something?”

“Hm?”

“How much do you know about Devil Bugs?”

Jean tilted her head, “A fair bit. They’re a regular at the bar, and there are a lot of them. Feel bad for the custodians who have to clean up after them, makes me grateful to just be a bouncer.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, there’s one a few doors down, but her place is spotless.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean shrugged, “She could just have a Kikimora with her, and you sure she’s the only one there?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Before I could answer, her phone buzzed. She let out a curse as she looked at it, “Got to go, things are already getting rowdy.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, be safe.” I say as she quickly makes her way out the door. Kinda sucks she didn’t say goodbye, but what’s done is done. More importantly, she brought up a good point about Courtney, and I kicked myself for not thinking that sooner.

<p class="MsoNormal">I decided to make my way back down to her door, not only to affirm this point, but also to get know her better. I doubt Jean would mind, she didn’t seem to have any romantic interest in me. I knocked on Courtney’s door, and after a few moments, a happy Devil Bug answered it.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hey…Thomas right?” Courtney asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, you have a few minutes?”

<p class="MsoNormal">She smiled and leaned against the door, “Oh I have all the time in the world for you.” She said in rather seductive tone.

<p class="MsoNormal">She giggled at my blushing, “I kid, I kid. I get you humans like to take things slow and that’s fine. Wouldn’t want to scare away the last single human in this apartment. Please, come in!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Following her into her living room, I was surprised at how furnished and organized everything was. Counters looked practically waxed, and the setting sun peaked in from windows cleaned to the point that they looked invisible at first glance. This would make a Kikimora jealous. I also noticed how large the room was, more than enough for just two using Jean and my room for a reference.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Beautiful isn’t it? I take pride in a clean home.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, you’re making me jealous.” Courtney blushed at my compliment.

<p class="MsoNormal">“The only thing it’s missing is a roommate,” she said, staring deep into my eyes, “sorry, didn’t mean to come on too strong there.” She quickly said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s fine. This apartment was built for mamonos after all, so I got that a lot for the first few months until most guest settled down.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Now in the living room, Courtney motioned for me to have a seat on the couch. I sank comfortably in it. No strange stains or odor, I couldn’t even hear the strain of springs.

<p class="MsoNormal">I heard Courtney from behind me moving presumably to the kitchen judging from the sounds of glasses, “Oh, I can only imagine how rough that must’ve been. Just trying to get home after a tiring day at work only to get jumped by some horny stranger.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, it made finding a room pretty rough.” I said, hearing her pouring something into the glasses.

<p class="MsoNormal">From my peripheral vision, I saw her reaching over me, beginning to place my glass on the table, “You must be so lonely. I’m shocked you managed to find a single room available.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh no, I’m not alone. I have Jean.”

<p class="MsoNormal">The glass hit the coffee table hard, causing me to jump, but thankfully the glass didn’t seem to shatter.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, sorry! My hand just slipped. So, you have a roommate?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney’s hand remained hovering over the lip of the glass, her fingers seemingly stuck slightly curled and stiff.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah. Jean, she’s a Mantis. She’s just probably my only friend here.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney’s hand suddenly relaxed and retracted behind me. A moment later, she appeared and took a seat on the chair next to me. “Oh, she’s just a friend?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, a close one though. She fought off the Jinko, Stacy I think her name was, at the end of the hall when we first met and offered me her place. At first I thought I was just going with the lesser of two evils, but Jean’s very kind and knows her boundaries. We really get along well too, granted she works night shifts so we don’t get to spend a lot of time together.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, that’s just sweet.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I won’t lie though, sometimes I wonder how much she feels about me. I want to make her happy, but I’m worried of over stepping my boundaries too.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, it’ll be alright.” Courtney said, her tone rather absentminded. In fact, she seemed be looking passed me rather than at me.

<p class="MsoNormal">I mentally kicked myself. Here was a lady who clearly had interest in me, and I just let loose the feeling’s I had for another woman.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, probably shouldn’t have said any of that.” I said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh no. I get it, love can be pretty complicated. Granted it doesn’t have to be, people who really love you ought to be way more direct with their feelings you know?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Like you with asking me out?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney smiled, her gaze focused on me, “Exactly. Let me guess, Jean is kind, but like most Mantis’ she can be pretty distant.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Kind of, but I think it’s more so due to our work schedules than anything else. I mean, she seems kind of shy too, but then again so am I.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Seems like things are going nowhere fast. Maybe you just need to loosen up though and get with someone more direct. And look, you’ve already got both of those things here. Why not take a sip of that wine?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked down at the glass, noticing its clear contents. At first I assumed it was water, but now I’m grateful she told me what it was, “Sorry, I don’t drink.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney’s smile faltered. “Oh, then…let me get you a glass of water then.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Its fine, I’ll get it.” I say as I stood up.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney quickly stood over me and gently put me down, her face blushing as she touched me, “No, no, no. I insist. Please, just relax.”

<p class="MsoNormal">With that, she took my glass and hurriedly made her way back behind me to the kitchen, leaving me alone with the blank TV mounted on the wall. Even it was spotless, not a trace of dust on it. The setting sun was giving a slight glare, and perhaps that was why, but I could’ve sworn I saw two Courtney’s in the reflection of the kitchen behind me. I squinted to focus, only for the TV to suddenly blare to life with a news channel.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, didn’t mean to leave that off. Just hit me how quiet it was, you know?” I heard Courtney say behind me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah.” I say.

<p class="MsoNormal">It suddenly hit how quiet everything was before. Sure soundproof room weren’t all that uncommon around here, heck some of the residents were pushing it to be mandatory, but come to think of it, I hadn’t even heard the AC humming, and it being the tail end of summer, it was still a little warm. Now that I had taken a moment to notice, it was rather warm in this room. Something stirred within me, my heart was pounding. Was it just nerves? Admittedly I was nervous with meeting Courtney, but this was something else.

<p class="MsoNormal">I nearly jumped once more as Courtney’s hand sudden placed the glass of water on the table. I looked at my phone, pretending to check something as she sat back down.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, but I have to go.” I said as I quickly got up.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney was quick to get up too. “Wait, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to come off so strong. Please stay, we could watch a movie if you like.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, sorry, I have to go.” While Courtney didn’t move from her spot, her dejected look gave me more fear than guilt, so against my better judgment, I added, “but hey, after work tomorrow I’d like to see you again.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney’s expression changed to joy, “You promise?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I hated making but promise, “Yeah. I promise.”

<p class="MsoNormal">She looked into my eyes. No, passed me again this time, but before I could turn my head around, she spoke, “Okay! You know where to find me. Have a good night!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Thanks, good night, Courtney.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I turned and began to walk out, trying to not hurry out, easier said than done as Courtney was close behind me. As I opened her door and stepped out, I gave her one last look.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Goodbye.” She said, her smile never faltering.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Goodbye.” I say as I turn and go back down the hall, silently thanking God I heard her close the door behind me. Even if she knew where I lived, something about her not seeing me go into my room brought me some semblance of comfort. And that was something I urgently needed, for over her shoulder, I could’ve sworn I saw something close the kitchen cabinet behind her.

<p class="MsoNormal">I couldn’t sleep. Sure it wasn’t late by any means, but as someone who worked early mornings I was usually out by now. But I couldn’t sleep. I had the TV as a mocking form of security. I needed assurance, I needed safety. I needed Jean. My heart dropped as I heard the locks on my door being tested. It was midnight, and Jean’s shifts weren’t over until two or three in the morning. I wanted to hide in my room, but stood frozen on the couch, my imagination only weaving a web of terror as to who was trying to open my door.

<p class="MsoNormal">They were doing so with ease, as the lock gave no heed to their passage. The intruder must’ve had a key, a master-key perhaps. Could it be Courtney? How did she get one? Did she know the landlord? Why was I presuming it was Courtney? It could be that ravenous Jinko, or anyone of those sexed crazed mamonos that stalk these halls. It then hit me. I hate it here. Other than Jean and my faith, I could find no solace in this place, those two were the only things that made this place feel more like a home rather than a prison.

<p class="MsoNormal">And I was praying feverishly to one, for the other was absent.

<p class="MsoNormal">The door opened, faint, emergency light from the hall spilled in ever so slightly, and with a flick of the switch, the room was illuminated.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Thomas? What are you doing up so-” Jean’s word were cut short, seeing my undoubtedly haggard appearance.

<p class="MsoNormal">Her voice turned soft, “You okay?” She said, calmly approaching me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Th-thank you.” I stammered. Just the sight of her was calming me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“What happened, was their trouble?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I shook my head, “I met with that Devil Bug after you left.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I told her everything that happened. While Jean’s expression remained stoic, I could tell from her eyes she was concerned.

<p class="MsoNormal">“And you promised you’d meet with her tomorrow after work?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I nodded.

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean took a breath, “Okay, just be careful. Don’t accept anything from her. Try to take her to a public place. And if you think anything is off, if you feel slightest unease, call me. We’ll play the conversation off somehow. Tell me where you are and I’ll come.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“But what about-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean hugs me, “You’re more important to me than my job. Get some rest, okay? Everything will be alright.”

<p class="MsoNormal">All my fears seemed to evaporate in her embrace. “Thank you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No need to thank me. You mean a lot to me, you know? Do you need anything else?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt tears welling in my eyes. How could I not have seen how much she cared about me?

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s okay. We’ll sort this out.” Jean said softly.

<p class="MsoNormal">I collected myself, “Yeah, you’re right. I don’t need anything else. Thank you, Jean. Goodnight.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Goodnight, Thomas. Don’t hesitate to knock if you need anything.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Despite Jean’s assurance and my prayers, I still had a rather sleepless night, and a rather dreary work day, but thankfully it was over rather quickly, and I made my way back to the apartment. Fortunately, Courtney did not come out to greet me, though I still walked slightly quicker to my room when I passed hers. Jean greeted me as soon as I stepped in, hugging me and going over once more what not to do and what I should do should things go wrong. I’m the fear on my face was palpable.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Relax, don’t show that you’re afraid. She’ll feed on that. Relax, trust your gut, and remember, call me, make any excuse you have to. You’ll be fine, you’ve been through worse.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Thank you again, Jean.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean hugged me, “You’ve got this, okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I nod, and turn to watch her leave. After a few minutes of preparation, I head to Courtney’s door, steel my nerves, and knock. The door opened quickly, albeit just a crack, and Courtney poked her head out. “Hey! Ready for our date? Let me just tidy up a few things and I’ll meet you in a second.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Okay. Hey, I was thinking we could go out somewhere. The café down the street seems pretty nice, have you ever been?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney perks up, “What a coincidence, I was hoping we’d go out! I’d love to go to the café. Just give me one quick moment to clean up.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Before I could reply, she quickly shut the door. I heard her walk across the carpeted floor, but was certain I heard other noises admits the rummaging from within. Then as quickly as it began, all things fell into an uncomfortable silence before she opened her door once more, greeting me with a smile.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Let’s get going!” She said as she wrapped herself around my arm.

<p class="MsoNormal">I did my best to hide my discomfort, but it’s clear she caught it and quickly released her grip on my arm, “Sorry, sorry, got to remember to not be so frisky around human men.” She said with a chuckle.

<p class="MsoNormal">The café was down the street from the apartment, so it was not a far walk, which was fortunate because it was one mostly in silence. I looked over to Courtney, and she seemed mesmerized by everything around her, taking in every building and person around us.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hey, Courtney.”

<p class="MsoNormal">No response.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Courtney?”

<p class="MsoNormal">She turned to me, and something in her eyes clicked before she replied, “Oh, sorry, I was spacing out. What’s up?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“We’re here.” I say, motioning her to the café.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Great! Let’s get this date started!” Courtney said enthusiastically.

<p class="MsoNormal">   As soon as we took our seat, a Lamia waiter came by to take our order.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney was quick to order before turning to me, “And what would you like, honey?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I’ll just have some chips.” I say, not having much of an appetite, fortunately Courtney did not seem to mind.

<p class="MsoNormal">“So, sweetie, I know you work mornings, but what exactly do you do?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I debated lying to her, but figured that wouldn’t be wise, as keeping a web of lies untangled wasn’t one of strong suites. “Just as a Network Engineer at a nearby business. It’s a pretty nice job.” Now my turn, “What about you? I noticed you seemed a little spaced out when walking here, everything okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">She waved it off, “Of course, I just work nights is all, so seeing everything so active during the day is such a shock.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“You have any roommates at your place?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Nope, I’ve sorta lucked out. Well, lucked out might not be the best way to put it. People tend to avoid us Devil Bugs, you know? But hey,” she suddenly moved her hands over mine, “I wouldn’t mind your company, honey.” She said, giving me a light smile and blush.

<p class="MsoNormal">I did my best to play it cool, hoping she wouldn’t catch on to my nerves. Besides, I’d need them for what I was going to ask.

<p class="MsoNormal">I tried to let out a chuckle, “This is going to be a dumb question, but do you remember my name?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney laughed back, “Of course I do, why do you ask?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I shrug, “You’ve been calling me pet names since this we met today is all. I’m not all that comfortable with it I guess.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney giggled, “My bad, I’ve always been that away around men.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Why I laughed along, the look I was giving her was making her nervous. Her hands were still over mine, and her fingers were beginning to fidget.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Besides, how could I forget a man like you? The only man in months to ever talk to me, let alone go on a date with me. You’re….you’re…Michael!”

<p class="MsoNormal">I kept my composure, laughing it off, “Nope.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hah! Just kidding. You’re William.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Now I was beginning to feel uneasy, it was time to call this off. I excused myself and headed to the bathroom. Thankfully she didn’t follow, but I could feel her eyes piercing into my back. Despite being the only one in the bathroom, I still felt an urge to whisper as I called Jean’s number.

<p class="MsoNormal">I was sent to voice mail.

<p class="MsoNormal">My nerves were getting worse as I called her again. It rang, and rang, and rang, each time the dull tone felt like a punch to the gut. Straight to voice mail. I needed to get home. Looking at myself in the mirror, I hoped my excuse would work.

<p class="MsoNormal">I stepped out, the Devil Bug who looked like Courtney noticing the change in my appearance.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You okay?” She asked, her voice lined with a concern I could not tell was genuine or not.

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, it must’ve been something I ate yesterday. Sorry but I have to call this off.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, I’ll walk you home.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, I’ll be alright. I don’t want you catching what I’ve got.” I noticed the waiter approaching with our food. “Besides, you’re food’s here.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, uh, I…forgot my wallet.” The Devil Bug said as she checked her pockets.

<p class="MsoNormal">I placed a twenty on the table, “Keep the change, I have to go.” I told the waiter.

<p class="MsoNormal">Surprisingly, the Devil Bug didn’t follow, but I gave her one last look over my shoulder, and was certain then and there that I was truly going to be sick. Her eyes were locked on to mine, and her expression was utterly empty.

<p class="MsoNormal">I probably looked crazy as I returned to my room, not that I cared. I took one last look to make sure I wasn’t followed, and locked the door behind me. Checking my phone, I saw I had three missed calls from Jean, and a text asking where I was. I told I was home, and she almost immediately replied that she was on the way. She asked if Courtney was there, and I told her no.

<p class="MsoNormal">True to her word, Jean showed up only ten minutes later, frightening considering the usual drive to the bar she works takes at least thirty. She wrapped me in her embrace, “I’m so sorry.”

<p class="MsoNormal">It was clear this hurt her as much as it did me, “Its okay. I get it, you were busy.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean shook her head, her voice seemed to shake a little, “No, there’s no excuse for not showing up. I gave you my word.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s okay.” I replied, holding her tight. She was always so strong, so dependable. It hurt when she thought she could be neither of those things, and it hurt me to see her when that toughness in her broke. But I think I knew how to cheer her up.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Let me guess, that rowdy Red Oni again? How many table did she break this time?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean chuckled, “No, this time it was a Harpy.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“A Harpy? How’d that happen?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I guess she had a bit too much. Trust me I was stunned too. One moment she’s relaxing with her friends, the next she’s screeching and hanging from the ceiling fans, feathers falling everywhere. Guess it’s not too surprising, a full moon’s tonight, and you know that mamonos can get a little wild during that.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah.” I say, a chill ran down my spine, thinking about Courtney.

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean caught onto this, and quickly salvaged the situation, “Whatever she was drinking probably made it much worse though. Still, not too tough for me to handle.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hope you got a raise for dealing with that.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Pfft, please. Harpy’s are all bark and no bite. Once you reintroduce them to gravity they get complacent quick.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I laughed, “And how did you do that?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well I wanted to just leap for her, but my boss was all like ‘I don’t want your feet on my tabletops, just get a ladder.’ And while he was saying that this Harpy was just going wild, screeching and swooping for any man she could. Eventually I just decided to hell with it and leaped off the bar top for her when she was going for my boss and-”

<p class="MsoNormal">A sudden knocking nearby made me jump. It sounded like it was to a room a few doors down. Jean and I paused, nothing. But just before she could continue, another knock, this time it was to a door closer. I froze and Jean slowly got up and turned to the door, her blades slowly and silently flexing themselves. The knocking continued, going down door to door before finally reaching ours. Jean motioned her finger to her lips, and we waited. It passed us, and I felt myself relax.

<p class="MsoNormal">The knock then reached the next door, but this time someone answered.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hi, sorry to bother you, but I’m looking for Thomas.” I heard a voice that sounded like Courtney’s say. Jean’s blades sprang and nearly reached the center of her body at the mention of my name, before slowly going back to their original position closer to her forearms.

<p class="MsoNormal">“He’s the one next to mine, sweetie.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean silently cursed.

<p class="MsoNormal">The knocking came back to our door, this time a little louder than before. Jean turned to me, motioning me to go hide. I shook my head. I did not want her involved in this more than she had too. I slowly got and approached the door, motioning Jean to hide. Hide herself against the wall at the end of the hall from the door.

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked through the peep hole, seeing it was presumably Courtney, a light smile on her face. She was carrying something, but I couldn’t tell what. Opening the door, the Devil Bug gave a light smile.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hi Thomas, sorry for the confusion today. Since you weren’t feeling well, I figured I dropped by to see how you were doing. I even made cookies.” She held out a small jar. “If you aren’t in the mood, it’s fine, but hey, you’re looking a bit better. Mind if I come in?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, but no. I’m still not feeling all that great. But thanks for the cookies. I’ll be sure to have some.” I silently cursed myself, why did I say that?

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, well hey, why don’t I stick around and make sure you’re alright? You won’t get me sick, us Devil Bugs are pretty resilient.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Handing me the cookies, she let herself in and closed the door behind her. With how cold my hands became, I could feel the warmth of the cookies from inside the jar. She waited for me to lead the way, and I felt like I had no choice but to do so. The first thing I had to do was draw her attention away so Jean could go, but that wasn’t necessary.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wow! Nice T.V.” She said as she approached my living room. I took a page from her book and turned it on to prevent Jean being spotted in its reflection. As soon as it turned on, the Devil Bug was focused on the football game that was playing.

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked over my shoulder to Jean. If looks could kill this Devil Bug would be thousands of tiny pieces on our floor. But she quickly shuffled against the wall, down the hall and into the laundry room next to the front door. She managed to sneak in without a peep, all the while glaring at the Devil Bug.

<p class="MsoNormal">“So, where’s Jean?” Courtney asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“She went to get some things for me. I told her I was sick.”

<p class="MsoNormal">One of Courtney’s eyes twitched ever so slightly, but she simply shrugged it off. “Some roommate she is. If it were me, I’d never leave your side and make sure you had everything you needed. What if you get worse while she’s gone?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt a chill run down my spine, and couldn’t help but shiver.

<p class="MsoNormal">“See? You’re already getting a chill. Hang on, where’s your AC?”

<p class="MsoNormal">My phone buzzed, it was Jean. ‘Tell her I’m parked out front and coming in. If she’s not out in ten seconds I’m throwing her out.’

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean says she’s right outside, Courtney.” I say.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney turns to face me, finding the AC unit on a nearby wall. “Fine, I’ll take my leave. I’ve fixed your AC anyways, you should be feeling a lot better by nightfall.” As she made her way back down the hall, she stopped at the front door, “Speaking of nightfall, tonight’s a full moon. I don’t know how Jean gets, but if she’s like most mamono she’s probably pretty ravenous. You don’t have to worry about that with me though. My door will be unlocked for you tonight if you need me. I hope you get well soon.”

<p class="MsoNormal">A minute or so after her exit, I heard Jean step out from the laundry room. “Find anything?” She asked as I was checking the AC unit.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Other than it being off, no.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean stared at it, pondering for a moment. “Rest easy tonight. I’ll stay up and keep watch. I don’t trust her, especially tonight.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean, you don’t have to do that.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, but I want to, I want to make sure you’re safe.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“And I don’t want that to come at the cost your health. Why don’t…why don’t you rest with me tonight?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean’s face grew a deep red, “You, you really feel that way for me?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I have for a while, but I didn’t know if you felt the same. That all changed with what you did for me last night and today.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean smiled.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Besides, we don’t have to do anything. I just…I just want you close.” Jean embraced me. “Besides, I doubt you’ll really try anything.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean chuckled, “Well, I wasn’t sure how you felt about me until just then, hence why I never acted those nights. Not that I’d start especially now. But I think…I think we deserve to relax.”

<p class="MsoNormal">As the sun set, the day initially felt with dread and panic gave way to ease and a sense of normalcy. It was as if Courtney never existed. I had forgotten how joy Jean and I brought to each other’s lives. But as the sun fully set and the moon glowed in the night sky, we recalled our situation. Those few rooms not soundproof leaked in. Mattresses squealed and the occasional moan would be heard. Above us our fan would subtly rock and it wasn’t uncommon for paintings on the walls of rooms adjacent to fall. Even Jean seemed rather flustered, but she, like always, respected her boundaries.

<p class="MsoNormal">Granted, this time the boundaries weren’t as thick as we slipped into my bed. Jean held me close, and we both shortly drifted off to sleep.

<p class="MsoNormal">I was suddenly jolted awake. Upon focusing my vision, I lost all sense of grogginess, for I was facing the ceiling and Jean mounting me. The moon light illuminated a flushed face. While she was naked, I was thankfully still clothed, but judging from how her scythes were twitching, that might not be for long if I don’t do something.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean, what’s wrong?” I said softly.

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean audibly swallowed, “Nothing love. It’s just…why don’t we make Courtney real jealous?” Her words were slurred but rapid.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean gripped my shoulders and pinned me to the bed, “I want to fuck you! I want to fuck you loud and hard! I want everyone in this apartment to hear it, especially that bitch Courtney! Courtney, Courtney, Courtney!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean’s scythe twitched and flexed, as she began to rock her hips, I felt a wet spot form on my pants. “M-my hips are moving on their own!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean suddenly shot her face forward, I could feel her rapid breathing on me. Even more disturbingly, her face was twitching. It was stuck in a coy, flushed smile, but the lips and eyes seemed to want to almost grimace.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Do you smell it? Your amazing scent I mean! That bitch Courtney! Courtney. My hips are moving on their own! We should open a window-and let everyone hear us!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Putting two and two together, I grabbed Jean by her shoulders and managed to push her off the bed. Despite the carpeted floor, the thud hurt me to hear. I moved quickly, opening the window next to the bed as wide as I could.

<p class="MsoNormal">I got off the bed, but as I moved to the door, Jean grabbed my leg and pulled me down. “Yes, that’s it. Let the nightly scent in. Let everyone hear us!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean snap out of it.” I say as she pins me again.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Don’t worry love, I’ll make this las-quick!”

<p class="MsoNormal">She pulled me into a rough, sloppy kiss, all the while grinding against me. It was only a few moments later that she let out a loud moan, one I just barely managed to muffle by putting my hand over her mouth. She eagerly placed my fingers into her mouth as the wet spot was now trailing down my leg.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh honey! I want to keep going…keep going until I can’t feel my legs!”

<p class="MsoNormal">I push her off me again and climb up to my feet. She doesn’t do the same. “Where are you going my love?” While her face was one of lust, her eyes were full of sorrow. I wasn’t afraid of Courtney now, I was angry. Jean was aware of what was happening.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I’m going to find Courtney.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait babe! We should stay together!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait here, I’ll be back.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean was surprisingly silent, but judging from the sound of her straining scythes, she was still struggling to regain control. Stepping out of my, and into the darkness of the living room. I first located the vent. I did smell something faint, and more importantly, I could’ve sworn I heard breathing. I moved the temperature control as fast as I could and turned it on. The machine hummed to life, and as if on cue, I heard something within the vents move through the walls and passed the front door.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney was being honest, her door was unlocked. I stepped in without hesitation and flicked the switch. Courtney was waiting for me on the couch.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Are you okay? Jean didn’t hurt you too bad, did she?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, she was stronger than whatever you were spraying in the vents.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, well that won’t be a problem anymore.” She said dismissively.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, because you’re leaving.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney snorted, “Or what? What are you going to do?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I’ll - I’ll make you leave.” I say, trying to sound tough, but it suddenly came crashing down on me that I had no plan. I had come to my tormenter’s home, unarmed and with nothing to negotiate with.

<p class="MsoNormal">And she knew it.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Come on, why not make the best of this situation and just stay with me? If you agree I’ll even leave your precious Jean alone. Who knows, maybe if you’re really good and give me lots of kids I’ll let her join in the fun every once in a while.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, now-” a hand gripped my arm, “Jean? Are you alright-” my words got caught in my throat as I turned to face the person behind me.

<p class="MsoNormal">It was Courtney, or at least a Devil Bug who looked every much like her.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You seem like a smart guy, and we’re horny as fuck so I’ll make this quick. I have a ton of identical sisters, and you’re about to become very familiar with them all. Unfortunately I got most of the brains so they aren’t as bright, and as such, were prone to screws ups.”

<p class="MsoNormal">From my right, two Devil Bugs came crawling out of the kitchen cabinets, followed by another making four making their way from out of the bedroom. Two more even emerged from nearby vent.

<p class="MsoNormal">“We had to resort to sneaking through the vents and letting loose a pheromone guaranteed to drive mamono wild. You were cautious, smart enough to drop everything the moment something felt off. But not smart enough to not let your anger overtake you when we messed with your loved ones. Well, that’s fine, works out for us at least.”

<p class="MsoNormal">A Devil Bug popped out of the nearby garbage can, holding a small trash bad, “By the way, I don’t appreciate you throwing those away. I spent all day baking these you know! I even infused them with something…special. Something guaranteed to keep you going for the rest of the night and the day after! More than enough to give me a few kids. Open wide!”

<p class="MsoNormal">She took a cookie from the trash and slowly moved it to my mouth. My struggling was made moot when one of her sisters pulled my mouth open. Courtney’s grin grew to a sickening size as she slowly inched closer, delighting in my fear.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yet in an instant, she suddenly jumped back as a green blur got in between her and me. Behind me I heard yelps of pain as I was released. Turning, I was all of Courtney’s sisters on the ground, slashes across their arms and legs.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You should count yourselves lucky I don’t group you up with your malicious sister. If you don’t interfere, I promise you’ll see the sun with your limbs intact.” Jean’s voice was calm, but I could pick up a faint hint of rage that burrowed beneath. The sisters behind me cried and skittered to a corner.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney looked unintimidated by Jean’s sudden appearance, “I’m impressed you managed to break the hold of my pheromones so easily, but it looks like it took a lot out of you, honestly I’m surprised you didn’t just go with it. That poor boy need someone to milk him before he’s past his usefulness.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean simply glared at her, “I’ll give you this one chance to either pack up and leave or never go near Thomas again. Even if your sisters so much as look at him the wrong way they’ll be cleaning your entrails out of the carpet.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Ooh, such ferocity. See Thomas, this is how you negotiate. Unfortunately for you though, this is non-negotiable. Now you can just trot back to Thomas’ room, clean up the cum stain on the carpet and-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney barely managed to evade Jean’s strike, landing on the TV with a cut on her face. Jean was on her in and instant with another slash, this one bisecting TV, but a faint gust of wind over me led to seeing Courtney in front of her sisters.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Now look what you did? Do you have any idea how much that costed? And here I was offering you a way out but nope, you had to be the hero. Girls, subdue her and have her way with your way with her to get yourselves nice and ready for Thomas.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney’s sisters remained behind her, cowering at the sight of Jean, who was still next to the TV, giving them all an icy glare.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Girls!” Courtney snapped, “If you take her all one at once she’ll have too many targets to focus on! Get over there and start fucking her!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Two hesitantly stood up, and took shaky steps forward, looking to each other than to Courtney, who simply stared at them expectantly. Taking a deep breath, they charged at Jean.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jean, please don’t!” I cried out.

<p class="MsoNormal">One gave a lazy swing only to be met with a gut punch by Jean, causing her to collapse. The other hesitated, but delivered a jab of her own, only to be evaded and lifted up by Jean who tossed her into the remains of the TV.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You know I work as a bouncer and am a Mantis, right?” Jean said dismissively.

<p class="MsoNormal">“So what? We’ve taken down Jinko’s twice your size to get to their man. Girls!” With a snap of her fingers, three more stood up, this time more determined, one of which even reached into the pantry and pulled out a pipe.

<p class="MsoNormal">The two charged while the armed one trailed close behind. As one took a swing, Jean evaded behind the one with a pipe who also swung. Jean ducked, leaving the one in front of her to be hit with a sickening smack that sent her crumbling to the floor. Jean took advantage of the other unarmed one’s shock and gave her a powerful roundhouse to get, sending into crashing to the wall.

<p class="MsoNormal">The one with piped roared in rage and took a swing. Jean’s scythe cut through with ease. Undeterred, the Devil Bug took another swing. The pipe grew shorter. Before she could react, Jean slashed forward and the Devil bug raised her pipe in defense. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw the pipe slowly fall apart, even where the pommel would be fell to the floor.

<p class="MsoNormal">The Devil Bug looked at Jean in teary eyed shock, only to receive a slap that reverberated off the walls. Now crying, the Devil Bug ran back to Courtney.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sis! Help us!” She cried.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Silence!” Courtney barked and turned to remaining five behind her. “What are you all waiting for? Go! She can’t take all you on at once, just look at her!”

<p class="MsoNormal">She was right. As much as Jean was trying to hide it, this had exhausted her. Courtney wasn’t lying that breaking from her pheromones’ hold had taken a lot out of her. Her scythe’s twitched, her legs just barely shook, and she was struggling to hide her panting. I needed to do something.

<p class="MsoNormal">I turned back to Courtney and her sisters, “Are just going to let her step on you like that? Stand up to her!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney snorted, “You have no idea how my kind works, do you kid? I’m the eldest sister here, and the elders are the alpha of the group.” She gently cupped the formerly armed Devil Bug’s face where a large red mark was. “We take care of our sisters, making sure they get fed, they’re educated, and have their turn with the man. But when they don’t obey,” the Devil Bug cried as Courtney gave her a slap on the same spot Jean did, sounding even harder than Jean’s, “we have to put them in their place. It’s what a good big sister does.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“You’re not a good big sister, you’re just a bully! You’re a coward! Hiding behind your sister and making them do all the work!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney was suddenly in front me, cupping my face, “Ooh, quite the tongue you’ve got. Why don’t put that to better use, honey?” She pinched my face open and stuck out her tongue, moving in close before another green blur stood over me. With a cry Courtney leapt back, spitting out some blood.

<p class="MsoNormal">“You bitch!” Her voice was slurred, Jean had cut her tongue. “But that was the last of your strength. I know it. Look at you, you can barely stand now.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean’s arms were at her side now, she wasn’t trying to hide her shaking legs or panting breath now, but she wasn’t about to fall either.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Still wanting to fight, how sweet. Girls, I think you can handle her now.” Courtney smirked as her sisters’ rose slowly.

<p class="MsoNormal">   Although Jean’s face remained stoic, she knew the odds were stacked against her, I was done letting her fight this alone. I stood up by her side.

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney raised an eyebrow. “And what are you doing?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Helping the one I love.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney snorted, “You, a human, take on a mamono? You know my kind can eat anything right? That wasn’t an innuendo, we will eat you once were done having our way with you should even try to fight back.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean smirked, “Finally ready to put what I taught you to use, huh?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I did my best to look strong, but my legs were even shaking worse than Jean’s, “Don’t have a much of a choice. I love you Jean, and I’ll do anything for you, even if this gets me killed.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Jean took a deep breath, stabilizing and straightening herself. “Don’t say that. I’ll be fighting for my and your sake, so please survive.” She glared a Courtney, “Send all your sisters at us at once, we’ll take them down.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Courtney sneered, “And what’s this, a second wind?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, this is doing what something for someone I love.” I say, I look to her sisters, “Man or mamono, you won’t take us down.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Silence! Girls, hold Jean down while I have my way with Thomas, now!” Courtney barked.

<p class="MsoNormal">The girls stood behind her, unmoving.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Girls! Go hold-”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No!” The sister with the red mark on her face shouted. She grabbed Courtney, and the others quickly did the same, holding her down. “They’re right! You’re nothing but a coward, we’re done having you boss us around!” As Courtney struggled and screamed, one of the girls called the police and they were over in a few minutes.

<p class="MsoNormal">To summarize a whirlwind of events, Courtney was jailed for assault, and not allowed back into the apartment. Her sisters were given house arrest. Initially scared of what would become of them, Jean and I showed up to help make sure they had everything they needed, as well making sure they kept the place clean until the sister with the red mark took over as the elder. She thanked us profusely for our mercy and kindness, promising to spread what she learned to her sisters and their kids.

<p class="MsoNormal">As for Jean and I, we shortly overcame those horrific events with each other, growing even closer than before.