It was Wednesday morning, and Julie sat hunched over her laptop, the glow of the screen reflecting in her intense green eyes as she meticulously reviewed volleyball stats. A sudden chime from her messenger app broke her concentration. It was a video call from Courtney in Miami. A surge of warmth and excitement coursed through Julie as she eagerly clicked the answer button. "Hi player…" she greeted, a playful smile spreading across her face, anticipating a lighthearted chat with her friend.
Courtney's face filled the screen, but Julie's smile instantly vanished, replaced by a gasp of pure shock. Dark, angry bruises marred Courtney's usually flawless complexion, a stark contrast to her bright eyes. "What the hell happened to you, Courtney?" Julie blurted out, her voice laced with alarm and concern. Courtney ran a delicate finger over a particularly prominent bruise along her jawline, her expression clouding over for a fleeting moment. "I… I was kidnapped, Julie. Almost raped. But thanks to Hank and some of his friends, I was saved."
Julie's breath hitched. "Wait… you know Hank personally?" she whispered, her mind reeling, a sudden flicker of jealousy igniting within her. Courtney smirked, a knowing glint in her eyes. "Yeah, that's actually why I'm calling you," she said, her tone shifting to something more significant, more… conspiratorial. "What the hell do you mean?" Julie asked, her stomach twisting with a sudden premonition. Her burgeoning hopes regarding Hank, the charming man who had shown her such kindness at the tournament, seemed to be rapidly dissolving. Courtney was stunning, undeniably desirable. Hell, Julie had even entertained a few fleeting, forbidden thoughts about her herself.
"You know your mom's friend, Constance?" Courtney asked, her gaze direct. Julie raised a questioning eyebrow. "Yeah? What about her?" "Constance is one of Hank's women too," Courtney revealed, the words hanging in the digital air. Julie's mind went blank for a moment, struggling to process this unexpected information. "There are actually seven of us," Courtney continued, her voice surprisingly matter-of-fact, "and eight if you accept it." "Wait… Hank has seven girls he… fucks?" Julie asked, the question tumbling out in a mixture of disbelief and a strange, unsettling curiosity. Courtney smiled, a soft, almost dreamy expression on her face. Julie couldn't miss the undeniable desire that flickered in Courtney's eyes as she whispered, "Yeah… and he is amazing, Julie. Truly amazing."
"What the fuck, Courtney," Julie stammered, her initial shock giving way to a confusing cocktail of emotions. Before Courtney could elaborate, Julie abruptly ended the call, slamming her laptop shut. The sudden darkness of the screen mirrored the turmoil within her. This was too much information to process. The man she liked, the man she had allowed herself to imagine a future with, was entangled with seven other women. A wave of anger washed over her, a sense of being cheated out of a potential connection. But beneath the anger, a different, more insidious emotion began to surface. A burning curiosity, a strange, almost desperate longing to be a part of this unconventional dynamic. She wanted to understand what made Hank so captivating, so irresistible. She wanted to be the eighth. A frustrated cry escaped her lips as she grabbed her pillow and screamed into its soft depths, burying her face in its comforting silence, her mind a chaotic battleground of shock, anger, and a forbidden, undeniable desire.
---
Constance, perched on the edge of her plush office sofa on the ninth floor, answered her ringing phone, the familiar chime momentarily interrupting her focused work. Hank was several floors below, immersed in the intricacies of a new investment portfolio on the sixth floor. "Hi Courtney," she greeted warmly, her voice carrying a note of genuine affection.
Courtney's voice on the other end was a mix of amusement and concern as she recounted her recent, rather explosive conversation with Julie. Constance listened intently, her brow furrowing slightly as Courtney described Julie's initial shock and subsequent, rather volatile reaction to the news of Hank's… extended family. "I will talk to her," Constance stated firmly, a hint of her inherent decisiveness entering her tone. "I think she is really pissed," Courtney reiterated, a chuckle bubbling beneath her worried words. Constance nodded, though Courtney couldn't see her. "Yeah, sounds like it. But this is for Hank," she affirmed, her commitment to his happiness unwavering. "Now tell me," she continued, her voice softening with anticipation, "what did Sandra say?"
A warm laugh echoed through the phone line. "Beside for you offering to pay for it all, which she is still slightly in disbelief about, she is kind of surprised we will… let her get near Hank," Courtney admitted, a touch of amusement in her voice. "But," she added quickly, "she is more than willing, Constance. More than willing." A satisfied smile spread across Constance's face. "So, Friday you girls are heading this way?" she inquired, already envisioning their arrival. "Actually," Courtney corrected, her voice brimming with an unexpected enthusiasm, "we started packing as soon as we hung up. We are leaving tomorrow. Rented a U-Haul." Constance's eyebrows rose in surprise. "Three days of driving?" "Just about," Courtney confirmed. "We'll take turns. Think we'll be there by Sunday."
"Good," Constance purred, a mischievous glint in her blue eyes. "I will make sure you and Sandra have him Sunday night all to yourselves." Courtney sighed happily. "I still can't quite believe this is happening," she confessed, a sense of wonder in her voice. Constance leaned back against the soft cushions, a confident smile gracing her lips. "Sweetheart, he is ours. And once he marries me, I will give him the company too. He will be set to take care of us… for an eternity," she declared, a deep sense of protectiveness and love for their shared future resonating in her words. She could hear Courtney's joyful sigh on the other end. "Drive carefully, my dear. I will keep you updated on Julie," Constance promised. "Thanks, Cya," Courtney replied, and the line went dead.
Constance rested her head against the back of the sofa, her gaze thoughtful. She could easily discuss Julie's reaction with Hank, seek his input. But a promise she had made to herself held firm. Hank was her husband, or soon would be. It was her self-appointed role, the task she embraced with unwavering dedication, to ensure his happiness, to pave the way for the life he desired, even if it meant navigating some initial turbulence. With a decisive nod, she picked up her phone, her lips curving into a warm smile as she saw her best friend, Eleanor's, name illuminated on the screen. She pressed call, a plan already forming in her mind.
Eleanor's perfectly manicured fingers paused mid-scroll on her tablet as her phone buzzed, Constance's name flashing across the screen. A surprised smile touched her lips. "Constance, what have you calling? I thought you were chained to your desk, working off the fury after you so satisfyingly kicked that asshole to the curb," Eleanor greeted, her voice a warm blend of amusement and genuine affection.
A soft laugh echoed through the phone line. "Well, if you recall our earlier, rather pivotal conversations, I hired Hank to help manage that fury, among other things," Constance countered, a playful lilt in her tone. Eleanor chuckled, the memory of Constance's decisive action and subsequent business acumen still fresh. "Ah, yes, the very capable Hank. So, what can I help you with?" Eleanor asked, settling back into her plush office chair, her curiosity piqued. "Your daughter," Constance stated simply, the single word hanging in the air.
Eleanor's perfectly sculpted eyebrows arched in a knowing smirk. "Julie or Nell? Knowing my girls, it could be either causing a stir," Eleanor quipped, a hint of maternal pride in her voice. Constance laughed, a light, melodic sound. "Julie," she confirmed. Eleanor's smirk deepened, a shrewd glint entering her eyes. "So," she drawled, piecing together the whispers she'd overheard from Nell, "this has something to do with this Hank fellow Nell keeps mentioning, the one who seems to have made quite the impression on both my daughters? And is this the same Hank you hired, who so thoughtfully sent us that rather captivating action shot of Julie at her tournament?" Eleanor inquired, her tone laced with a mixture of amusement and a keen interest in the unfolding drama.
"The very same," Constance affirmed. "You see, Hank likes Julie, quite a bit actually. And if I'm reading the signals correctly, I have a strong feeling the attraction is mutual." Eleanor leaned back in her chair, her interest fully engaged. Constance then took a deep breath, the playful tone fading as she delved into the intricate and rather unconventional details of Hank's life. She recounted everything to her friend… the unexpected arrival of Doria, the rekindled connection with Tiffany, the vibrant energy of Kamilla, the quiet strength of Michelle, and her own deep and evolving relationship with Hank.
She explained how Hank had acted with incredible speed and bravery, saving her daughter, Lily, from being struck by a reckless driver who had sped through a crosswalk, around a corner… a selfless act that had forged an unbreakable bond of gratitude and affection between them, ultimately leading to their impending marriage. Then, with a touch of hopeful anticipation, Constance shared how Hank, demonstrating his unwavering loyalty and caring nature, had recently flown all the way to Miami to be there for Courtney after her terrifying kidnapping ordeal, offering support and comfort during her most vulnerable time. Constance then revealed her desire to extend a heartfelt invitation to Julie, to let her know that she would be warmly welcomed into their unique circle of women. She emphasized that all the women involved were aware of each other, that honesty and open communication were paramount to Hank, and that he would never deceive Julie about the nature of his relationships. Ultimately, Constance stressed, the decision would rest entirely with Julie, but she wanted to ensure that the option was presented with genuine warmth and without any pressure.
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Hank sat at his temporary desk, a sense of quiet satisfaction settling over him as he observed the subtle but significant shift in the office dynamics. The eight AM start time, initially met with grumbles and resistance, had gradually been embraced by the majority of the employees. Log-in times were earlier, and more importantly, actual work was being done. He noted the positive change filtering through all the floors, a testament to the clear expectations and the newfound sense of accountability. Of course, there were still a few stragglers, one or two on each level seemingly immune to the memo. He scribbled a quick note for Constance, a gentle reminder about those persistent few; she had been resolute in her decision to handle any necessary terminations herself.
A polite knock interrupted his thoughts. His newly refurbished office, still missing its permanent desk which was apparently a few weeks away, felt more like his own now. "Come in," he called out. The door opened, and Gloria, her usual efficient self, stood there. "Mr. Avery, there is someone here to see you," she announced. "Sure, let them in," Hank replied, a flicker of curiosity piquing his interest. He looked up, and his breath hitched slightly. Standing in the doorway, her posture radiating a mixture of anger and a hesitant vulnerability, was Julie. A genuine smile spread across his face. "Julie Rinholt," he greeted warmly, the sound of her name a pleasant melody.
She offered a tight, almost forced smirk in return. "Can we talk?" she asked, her voice clipped, betraying the turmoil beneath the surface. Hank nodded instantly, pushing back his chair and standing up to offer her a seat. He then walked over and deliberately closed the office door, creating a sense of privacy. "Are you alright?" he asked, his concern genuine. Her intense green eyes, usually sparkling with life, were clouded with a storm of conflicting emotions. A deep frown creased her brow. "You made me believe you actually cared for me, Hank," she hissed, the accusation hanging heavy in the air.
Hank sat back down, his expression earnest. "Julie, I do care," he stated, his voice calm but firm. "Don't give me that bullshit," she retorted, her anger flaring. "You have what, seven other women you fuck? And you want me to be what, number eight?" The raw hurt and fury in her voice were palpable, hitting him with unexpected force. "Julie," Hank began, his tone measured, "did we ever actually talk about any of this? About my life?" She shook her head vehemently, her eyes blazing. "Then how was I supposed to tell you about it?" he countered gently.
She frowned, her anger momentarily warring with a flicker of logic. "You could have told me," she insisted, her voice still sharp. "And I was planning to," he explained patiently. "When we met for coffee, or dinner, something more personal. This isn't something you casually blurt out in the middle of a crowded beach, surrounded by volleyballs and spectators." Her jaw tightened, a grudging acknowledgment in her eyes. He had a point. "Julie… I like you. Hell, I like you a lot," Hank admitted, his gaze direct and sincere. "And I'm going to be completely honest with you. There's something I'm going to tell you now, something that only one of the other women currently knows about."
Her frown deepened, suspicion clouding her features. "What happened to no secrets?" she challenged, her voice laced with skepticism. Hank offered a small, knowing smirk. "This isn't really a secret, Julie. All of you… yes, you included, if you choose… will know this when the time is right. And for you, that time is now." He paused, letting his words sink in. "I haven't even said I want to be part of this… harem you have," she spat, the word laced with a mixture of disdain and a reluctant fascination.
Hank smiled softly, his eyes filled with understanding. "Julie, if you want to walk out that door right now, you can. I won't stop you. Hell, I'll miss you. I genuinely hope you want to be a part of my life. And yes, I know it's a little unconventional, but I'm not hiding anything from any of you, and I never will. That's why I want to start by telling you the whole truth." Julie sat there, her body tense, her emotions a visible battleground. But despite her anger, despite her confusion, she didn't make any move to leave. A flicker of something else, something akin to curiosity and a reluctant desire, held her rooted to the spot.
Hank leaned back in his chair, a knowing glint in his eyes as he posed the unexpected question. "Julie, what do you know about elves?"
A surprised smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. "You mean, like in fairytales?" she asked, a hint of playful skepticism in her voice. Hank shook his head, his gaze steady. "In general," he clarified.
Julie leaned back in her own chair, considering. "Well," she began, her brow furrowed in thought, "they're supposed to have magic, right? And they're usually depicted as incredibly beautiful, graceful creatures. Fast, light on their feet."
Hank smiled, a touch of amusement in his expression. "As they describe them in Tolkien's Lord of the Rings," he added, a shared cultural reference point. She nodded in agreement. "But they are much more than that," he stated, his tone shifting, becoming more serious.
Julie snorted, a sound of utter disbelief. "Right… Elves are real," she said, shaking her head dismissively. "Let's just say, for argument's sake, I believe you," she conceded, her skepticism still evident. "Though you can't possibly expect me to, how would you even prove it?"
Hank's smile widened, a hint of anticipation in his eyes. "Maerisa," he said, the single word seeming to hang in the air. A subtle shimmer rippled in the shadows that clung to the far corner of his office, a distortion of the light that was almost imperceptible. But it wasn't the ethereal Maerisa who stepped out of the deepening gloom. Hank's smile softened with affection as he gazed at the breathtakingly beautiful elf who materialized from the darkness. "Elowen," he greeted warmly.
Elowen smiled, her long, flowing hair the color of a vibrant spring meadow, a startling contrast to the muted tones of the office. Her eyes, the shade of molten gold, fixed on Hank with an ancient affection. "Maerisa is in Miami," she explained, her voice like the gentle rustling of leaves, "there is a matter to take care of." Hank nodded, understanding. "Elowen, please meet Julie," he said, gesturing towards the still-astonished woman.
Julie stared at the elf, her breath caught in her throat. Elowen's ears, delicate and slightly pointed, peeked out from beneath the cascade of her green hair on either side of her head. "You're… an elf?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. Elowen nodded, her golden eyes radiating an otherworldly wisdom. "I am. There are fourteen of us," she stated, a hint of sadness in her tone. Hank smiled reassuringly at Julie. "And we are all sisters," Elowen added, a small, hopeful smile gracing her lips.
Julie's gaze darted between the elf and Hank, her mind struggling to reconcile the fantastical being before her with the reality she knew. "Elves are real?" she repeated, the question laced with utter disbelief. Hank nodded, his smile gentle and understanding.
Elowen moved with an ethereal grace, walking over to the edge of Hank's temporary desk and sitting down, her gaze now fixed on Julie. Hank remained silent, observing the unfolding interaction. "Hank is telling you the truth, Julie," Elowen said, her voice soothing yet carrying an undeniable authority. "And here is more of it. This world was a world of wonders long before humans became the dominant race. Elves, fairies, trolls, gnomes, goblins… all those creatures you call fantasy, we are here too. We were here long before the humans walked this earth."
She then whispered a melodic incantation under her breath and blew a delicate kiss towards Julie. A stream of shimmering green smoke, laced with tiny, sparkling particles, drifted through the air and enveloped Julie. Julie gasped, instinctively recoiling in her chair. "What did you do to me?" she asked, her voice filled with alarm.
Elowen smiled, a knowing, gentle expression. "I gave you the ability to see, Julie. Truly see. Look out the window." Julie hesitated, her eyes darting towards Hank, who offered a small, encouraging smirk. "Don't look at me," he chuckled softly, "I'm not allowed to see yet." Elowen nodded in agreement.
Slowly, cautiously, Julie turned towards the expansive window overlooking the city. Her breath hitched, a gasp escaping her lips as her perception of reality shattered. The air outside shimmered with a thousand tiny, iridescent wings. Hundreds of fairies, in every imaginable size and hue, flitted and danced in the sunlight, weaving intricate patterns in the sky. On the ground, between the oblivious rush of cars and pedestrians, she saw them… hulking, moss-covered trolls lumbering with surprising speed, their movements somehow unseen by human eyes. Gnomes with pointed hats and mischievous grins darted in and out of alleyways, their tiny hands seemingly manipulating unseen mechanisms. Goblins, small and hunched, their eyes gleaming with avarice, scurried in the shadows. "How… how is this possible?" Julie stammered, her mind reeling, trying to process the impossible reality unfolding before her eyes.
Elowen stood up and walked over to her, her hand resting gently on Julie's arm. "Magic," she whispered, the word carrying an ancient weight. "The truth, Julie, is that Hank is not just Hank. He is going to be the elven King, our king. Once he has gathered the humans he desires, they will be unofficially his wives in the world of humans. Officially, he can only marry one. But in the world you now see, you and the others he has chosen, you will all be married to him. You will be his queens, just as we will."
Julie turned to Elowen, her eyes wide with disbelief and a dawning understanding. "You?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. Elowen smiled, a hint of ancient sorrow in her golden gaze. "My sisters and I, we are the last elves in this world. And trust me, we have searched. For three hundred years, there have been no others. And we have had no luck finding our king… until now." She turned her gaze towards Hank, her expression filled with reverence. "He is the king we have been waiting for. Only he can breed the new generation of elves."
Hank offered a gentle smile. "So, all fourteen of you… you're going to be part of his harem too?" Julie asked, the word feeling less shocking now, almost… understandable in this new context. Elowen smiled, a hint of playful anticipation in her eyes. "Yes, but we cannot fully join until he has gathered all he desires. There is a gap, a balance that must be filled first." She took a deep breath, her gaze becoming more serious. "Many years ago, there was a rule, a tradition that felt right for that time. The king had to learn from as many women as he desired, to gain the experience and wisdom to please his queens. Once he had that experience, the elves would take him as their husband. Humans could not be part of that sacred union." She looked at Hank, a deep affection in her eyes. "But times have changed. We have seen the depth of Hank's love, the sincerity of his heart. So, we have changed the rules too. Hank can have as many human wives as his heart desires, and we will call them sisters. They will live as long as he does, and for an elf king, that is going to be millennia."
Julie turned back to Hank, her initial anger and confusion now replaced by a profound sense of wonder and a hesitant hope. "You said you liked me a lot," she whispered, her voice barely audible. Hank nodded, his eyes filled with a genuine warmth. "Yeah. Like, a lot, lot." A small smirk touched her lips, a flicker of her old confidence returning. "And if I accept?" she asked, her gaze searching his. Hank's smile widened, radiating a love that felt all-encompassing. "You'll be part of my family, Julie. My wife."
