What Stands in the Dark
Copyright© 2026 by Sci-FiTy1972
Chapter 29: The First Shadow of the Past
Science Fiction Sex Story: Chapter 29: The First Shadow of the Past - What Stands in the Dark is a mythic modern saga of wolves, vampires, and the cost of choosing to protect in a world that feeds on the innocent. When Jer Morgan awakens an ancient power meant to free Earth from a hidden empire, he must face the truth that real strength is not found in domination—but in standing when others fall. In the shadows of war and destiny, a reluctant king begins to rise.
Caution: This Science Fiction Sex Story contains strong sexual content, including Ma/Fa Consensual Romantic Fiction Science Fiction Aliens Extra Sensory Perception Vampires Were animal AI Generated
The day felt ordinary enough to be safe.
That was what made it dangerous.
Rain walked beside Mara through the small bridal shop on the corner of Maple and Third, the bell over the door chiming softly every time someone stepped in or out. Sunlight spilled across racks of dresses and long mirrors that reflected futures in fragments.
“I still can’t believe this is happening,” Mara said, running her fingers across a row of fabric. “You were fighting vampires two months ago. Now you’re picking centerpieces.”
Rain laughed. “I’m still fighting vampires. This is just ... multitasking.”
They leaned close together near a display of invitation samples, voices lowered the way people did when they talked about joy they were still afraid might disappear if they said it too loudly.
“I think Jer would love the simple ones,” Rain said. “Nothing flashy. Just honest.”
Mara nodded. “That’s him.”
They didn’t notice the woman standing two aisles away.
But she noticed them.
Lynn had been pretending to look at shoes.
She had heard the word wedding before she ever saw Rain’s face.
She turned slowly, curiosity already sharpening into something else.
Recognition took a second longer.
Not because Rain had changed so much.
But because Lynn had.
“Oh—” Lynn said, stepping closer with a practiced smile. “I’m so sorry, I couldn’t help overhearing. Wedding planning always catches my ear.”
Rain looked up, polite instinct already in place.
“No worries,” she said. “It happens.”
The woman tilted her head slightly, studying her.
“You went to West Ridge, didn’t you?” Lynn asked. “Class of...?”
Rain paused. “Yeah. I did. You’re ... Lynn, right?”
Lynn’s smile brightened just enough to look sincere.
“That’s me. Wow. It’s been forever.”
They stood there for a moment in that strange space between familiarity and distance—recognition without closeness.
Mara felt it immediately.
Rain felt it too.
Lynn gestured vaguely toward the racks. “I just love seeing women take control of their lives like this. Men should be catering to us when it comes to things like weddings. It’s our right, honestly.”
Rain blinked—not offended, just ... aware.
Mara raised an eyebrow. “I think partnership works better than catering.”
Lynn laughed lightly, though something in her eyes sharpened.