Chapter 38: Second time

Chapter 38: Second time (Wattpad)

They say the truth sets you free.

But they’re wrong.

So wrong.

Ice clapped her hands once. “Now, I think everyone’s on the same page. So what do we do with the both of you now?”

I stayed silent. I don’t want to think. I don’t even know what to think. My lungs seem to be suffocating as I stared at nothing trying to set my mind straight. I just want to get away from here. I have to. Tears were still unconsciously falling from my eyes. I refused to look at Sky. I just want to open my eyes and out that everything was just a dream. I’d do anything for that to happen.

Ice continued speaking. “I really want to kill La Brea right now. You’ve caused enough trouble, and not to mention that you look like you don’t care if you live or die.” He didn’t respond, hollowed eyes staring right past her. “Brighten up, Sky! You don’t have to carry the burden anymore! I can’t imagine how painful that must be for you but frankly, I don’t see why you’re so affected by it.

No response.

“I’ll just have a monologue then. Fine. Considering you only have a few more minutes to live, you should at least spill everything you know – the location, Sky. I still need it.” She sighed when Sky said nothing. “I’m losing my patience here. It could be cleaner if you just tell me – you’ll die either way, so no pressure. I obviously can’t kill Ryne; she’s too valuable – ”

“Go to hell.” Sky suddenly stirred to life a little. “Don’t you dare touch her.”

Ice smiled. “Wrong move.” Then she strode over to me, pulling me by the hair. I struggled to no avail and then she stood still. “Do you know how much bullets a human body can take without dying? It’s a surprising number actually – ”

“No – ”

She pressed the wounds on my wrists and I felt excruciating pain. I heard Sky say as I howled in pain. “Stop it! Hurt me, not her – ”

 “Just tell me where they are and you don’t – ” she never finished the sentence as the warehouse metal doors shot open and bullets were everywhere. Everything was a blur. I felt Ice’s body jerk behind me and she let go, almost felling to the ground from the stomach shot she had. She immediately poised her gun as chaos erupted when her men joined the fray. But she didn’t point it at me.

Sky.

My feet was carrying me to her direction and right before she pulled the trigger, I ran straight towards her and her aim was thrown off, the bullet hitting one of her men.

“Bitch! You – ”

A bullet whizzed past my ear and it hit her straight in the chest and she fell abruptly to the ground, like a marionette with its strings cut off. I can’t breathe and my body was still aching and all I saw was the gun in her dead hand and the next thing I remember was grabbing it. I stood up and took cover behind the pile of sacks.

Who should I get away from?

I clicked the gun in my hand and raised it to aim but I felt a hand covering my mouth. I kicked and struggled and I blindly aimed my gun behind my head and without thinking, I pulled the trigger.

His limp arms fell to his sides and he crumpled to the floor, dead. One of Ice’s people. I stepped over the body and backed away from the scene unfolding in front of me – an open almost-war image and total disarray. I whipped my head around and started running away, further inside the warehouse where hopefully, there are no people waiting for me. I passed through numerous building materials and construction necessities. And then suddenly, there were two string arms holding my upper arms.

Two familiar hands.

“Let go of me!”

“I need to protect you – ”

“I’ve had enough of your protecting, Sky. Just – ” he cuffed my wrists and I screamed in frustration. “Xav and the others are taking care of it, we need to go – ”

“I hate you all! And we’re not going anywhere – ” then he covered my mouth with a handkerchief in his hand and started dragging me away. Fuck this! I tried to hold on to something with my feet but in vain. This is the second time I’ve been kidnapped by this person and I don’t want it.

Sky accidentally pressed my wounds and I shrieked painfully, muffled by the cloth on my mouth.

“Oh, God.” Abruptly, he released the hindrance to my mouth and pushed me behind a pile of crates, stacked high and wide enough not to be seen by anyone watching. Gunshots and grenade explosions can still be heard from here, shaking the ground slightly.

“Uncuff me – ”

“Stay still and don’t move.” he pressed my front torso against the boxes and I heard him tearing off a piece of cloth from his shirt and he started bandaging my wounds. I violently moved my shoulders. “I don’t need your fucking help – ”

“Your wrists – ”

“Get away from me!”

He fell silent after that, slightly pausing the bandaging but quickly resumed doing so, without any sound or indication that something happened. I exhaled slowly. This is hopeless.

Once the bleeding was stopped and my wound was temporarily secure, he pushed me forward once again, pulling his gun out and perusing the nearby surroundings before stepping further. I pursed my lips and didn’t even bother to speak. I was afraid I’d start crying when I do and that can’t happen.

In no time, we were already outside, just as the sun was setting. Sky led me to a Porsche but I stopped in my tracks halfway. I called out, “Dash?” 

Barking instantly sounded from behind the car and I sped towards it, almost dragging Sky. Then there he was, tied to the rear view mirror, unharmed. Without words being said, Sky immediately freed Dash and opened the backseat and ushered my dog in, never letting go of his grip on me. Then he faced me and opened the shotgun seat.

“In.” he said emotionlessly.

When I did not move a muscle, he pushed me into the seat and didn’t even bother to uncuff my wrists, As he closed the door, I breathed in hard, closing my eyes. I put my knees up to myself and I lay with my head there, hands still bound on my back. I hate this.

After a few seconds, he opened the other side of the car and settled in, starting the engine in an instant. He didn’t speak.

            And I can’t see any point in saying something as well.

Chapter 36: A shot in the dark

Chapter 36: A shot in the dark (Wattpad)

We spent the rest of the night together, absorbed in each other. We played a horror movie – complete with popcorn and with the lights shut off. It was the best night of my life, and probably afterlife. After a while though, we lost interest in the film and we fooled around like little kids. It was absolutely about nonsensical things and I love it.

“Oh, shut the fuck up.” I giggled. We were sprawled on the carpet by this time, him lying on his back and I was supporting my upper body with my elbows, almost facedown. We were just down playing tag – yes, tag – and I’m bloody exhausted. He looked up to me, eyes sparkling. 

“And do you know what happened after that?” he said as his hands tickled the sensitive spot on my neck. I laughed until I couldn’t breathe. “I don’t want to know!” I laughed still

.

He laughed along with me and sat up. He grabbed my hands and pulled me up with him. “Do you know it’s already 2am?” he smiled at me and I smiled back. I said, “Oh really? Well, that’s just shocking.” I laughingly answered. 

Then sudden inspiration lighted up his eyes. I knew that look instantly. Before he could open his mouth, I interrupted him, “Yes, what are you planning?”

He laughed and pulled me closer. “Have you ever danced?” he said then continued, “If I recall correctly, I haven’t danced with you yet.” What? I gaped at him as if I’d never heard that word before. I don’t dance! How does he expect me to? Uhhm, Sky?I kind of have an aversion to dancing because on third grade, I kind of…” He grasped y hands as he laughed. “Let me guess, you punched someone?”

I pushed him and he laughed harder. “I did not. I sort of shouted at him a bit – ”

“Shouted a bit. Of course.”

I glared at him but he kissed my cheek so – plan at annoyance failed. I ended up with my arms around his waist and his arms around me. I feel so safe.

“The guy was asking for it. He said I couldn’t dance to save my life, so yeah…” He chuckled. “So you err, how do you say that – oh. So you trash talked him? That’s incredibly heroic.” He kissed my forehead and continued speaking, “So, will you dance with me?”

“What kind of dancing, exactly?”

He winked and turned to the DVD player, paying no attention to the screaming woman on the screen from the horror movie and he set the function to “radio.”

Melodic music played through the speakers, softly filling the room with sounds. “You’ve got to be kidding me.” I protested, half-laughing. He just hummed along to the song and held my right hand. His other hand held my back. I laughed aloud. This is just crazy. I placed my hand on his shoulder and he slowly twirled us side to side. 

“I won’t give up on us

Even if the skies get rough…”

I put my head against his chest and tried to calm my conflicted emotions bubbling inside me. Of all the people to fall into this situation, I came along. I listened to his humming and found myself falling harder. He suddenly said, 

“I never knew I could be so romantic.”

I chuckled softly. Me neither. I smiled up to him and he slowly leaned in. But then the chandelier behind us flickered, and the music stuttered.

Like a mini-second brownout.

I turned to him, eyebrows raised. “Did you feel that?” he smiled like it was nothing and just nodded yes. And then the lights shut down completely and the music died.

Yes. Brownout.

It was absolute darkness and I can still feel Sky and I held him tighter. “At least we had our warning.” I heard him sigh. “Well, this is just perfect. Maybe we – ” the telephone rang from across the room and I jumped, startled. Who in the world would call at this time, anyway? I heard Sky say to me, “That must be the hotel manager or something – ”

“Maybe they want your number – ” 

“Maybe they’re checking on their people because of the brownout.” he kissed my hands and let me towards the ringing phone. He picked it up. 

“Yes?”

I heard a muffled voice from the other line. A male voice. I shrugged it off. At least no clingy females. 

“Yes, me and my sister are fine. Thanks for the trouble, sir.” There was a short pause and then, “Bye. Thank you again.” Then I heard him put the phone back down and he faced me. Well, sort of. It’s bloody dark! 

I said, “Maybe it’s our cue to go to sleep.”

“As much as I want to, I probably can’t.” then in the darkness, I saw a distinct white. He was smiling. I laughed, “Even in the dark, you smile just the same.” I felt him hug me right then and he responded, “Likewise.”

I can’t seem to stop the grin on my face. I’ve never been this happy before. If truth be told, I could stay here forever, but after a while, he said, “Shall I carry you to the bedroom, my princess?”

I laughed. “I can manage, but I’ll probably fall on my own feet.” When I said that, he pulled away from the hug and turned me around by the shoulders, guiding me through the living room. I said, “What if I bump into something or – ”

“If that happens,” he laughing answered, “you can get the baptized handcuffs and hold me prisoner.” I stopped in my tracks. Wow. “Really?”

“Figuratively, I’m already your prisoner, but yes.”

I laughed again. “I guess I should bump myself intentionally, then.” he gripped my upper arms from behind and started raining kisses on me. I can’t stop giggling and I relaxed completely into his body frame. Then he said, “Forget about the bumping issue. Let’s just go to the bedroom and – ” he never finished the sentence because I gave him a quick kiss and ran away from him. 

And I bumped myself on the low table. 

“Ow! That hurt!”

 

“My love, you must never run away from me.” Then his arms snaked around my waist from behind, putting his chin on my shoulder. I groaned. “That really hurt.” He kissed the area behind my ear right then and guided me to the sofa, pushing me gently to sit. 

“Stay here.”

“Where are you going?”

He caressed my hand before letting them go. I heard his footsteps. “I’m just going to find light.” I tapped my feet impatiently as I heard him rummaging through the drawer. Five seconds later, I heard the striking of a match and the room filled with an orange light from a fore in Sky’s direction. 

“Candles?”

He grinned in satisfaction. “It’s just a brain blast.” He lit seven of them and started to scatter them around the living room. I stood up to help him and once we’re all set, we sat back on the couch.

Sky put an arm around me. He said, “I want to make sure Ryne, that you know that this isn’t just a shot in the dark. I’m serious.”

I pursed my lips. “I know.” I replied, voice hushed. He continued speaking, “Do you – ”

“Can we talk about something else? I interrupted, looking at the flickering flame of the candle on top of the low table. If I’m being honest with myself, talking about the future scares me. It’s easier to think about things within this hotel room, closed off from the outside world.

“Just this once, Ryne. Please.” He said. I sighed and closed my eyes shut. “Go on.”

“Remember that time when I told you that you’d hate me?” my eyes flashed open and I bit my lip. This is fucking messed up. “Do we really have to go into that?”

He paused before replying. “I have to. You’ll really hate me, and I’m just scared if you find out and…” 

“Find out what?”

He sighed from the very depths of his soul and replied, “That’s the problem. You can’t know. But you will sooner or later and I don’t want you distancing yourself away from me because I…I…”

I sighed. It is fucking messed up. “Why don’t you just tell me now?” I faced him and gripped his hands. “You’re worrying me.”

He smiled sadly – bitterly. “If I tell you, you’ll hate me even more.” My eyebrows drew together and I shifted closer to him. “I promise I won’t hate you. I promise. How could I?”

“You don’t understand.” He said, shaking his head slightly. “And by the way,” he looked up into my eyes. “Mr. Mafia told me not to fall in love you.” He smiled gently. “But to hell with it.” He came closer to me and kissed me once again. I kissed him back and felt myself smiling.

             But then next day happened.

Chapter 34: Family album

Chapter 34: Family album (Wattpad)

Part I:

I could still hear the pounding of the rain outside. It’s not that loud anymore, but it’s still there. I breathed in then, and the smell of someone’s cologne filled my nostrils. And now I think of it, I feel warm. Warmer than I should be.

I blinked my eyes open and what first registered through my mind was the polo. Over the baggy shirt I owned that I wore, I now have a checkered black and white polo, buttoned all the way up to the base of my throat.

That’s number one on the warm issue.

The number two was much more unbelievable. 

I’m now on the driver’s seat, on sleeping Sky’s lap and somehow cuddled up to his chest. I almost groaned out loud; every damned time I fall to sleep, something happens. And it always doesn’t fail to surprise me. I didn’t try to move – he might wake up. His long arms are around me and his cheek on my head.

As much as I would sell my soul countless times to go back to sleep, I know it’s impossible. I relaxed my cheek on his shoulder, closing my eyes and tried to convince myself that this kind of cuddling isn’t nice.

I remembered what Imah said – “Did someone ever tell you how bad you lie?”

I rolled my eyes. My imagination has the tendency to be extremely helpful at times of urgency. 

“It would be easier to live like without regrets, you know. Or restraints.”

Restraint. I hate that word so much. I’m not the kind of person who makes rash decisions. I always think things through. I bit my lip. It’s hard to think when I could feel his chest rising and falling and when he’s so close to me. I closed my eyes and opened them again, rubbing my hands together. If only I could get out of this situation now.

A small voice laughed in my head. It seemed to say, Do you really want to?

I pursed my lips.

No.

No, I don’t.

           Part II: 

It seemed like eternity before I felt him stirring. I acted as if everything’s normal and adjusted myself so I can face him. He was still blinking sleep away from his eyes and there was still rain outside. He removed one arm from me and adjusted his glasses, slowly focusing on me. He put his arm back around me and held me tighter, then after a second, he smiled.

I smiled as well, almost chuckling. “Good morning, sunshine.” then I arched an eyebrow. “Your good mood’s back.”

His smile turned wider. “The sleep helped.” 

“Would you care to explain how I got here?” he chuckled at my question but just shook his head, not answering my query and he buried his face by the length of my hair. I felt a smile tugging at my lips and I now saw no reason to hide it. I straightened my legs and – to hell with it – hugged him properly, putting my arms around his neck and he tightened his arms around me again.

I rocked us both slightly side to side, laughing quietly and hearing him join in. The patting of the rain on the windows and roof sounds very calming and melodic. I said to him, “Do you know how much I hate you?”

“For what exactly?” he asked, chuckling.

I laughed – a weird laugh. “See, you make me feel…”

“Happy?”

“Sometimes.” I answered. He laughed merrily as he kissed my temple. “I think I make you feel.”

“Feel what?”

“Just feel.”

I pursed my lips. “You confuse me, though.” He asked, “Is that a good thing?”

“I honestly don’t know.”

He pulled back and held me at arm’s length, those emerald eyes boring into mine. He was smiling and he asked with an eyebrow raised, “Should we go into details?”

“Maybe, but not now.”

“You’re such a little devil.” he said, coming closer to me and rubbing the tip of his nose to mine. I laughed aloud to his face. “I’m an angel sometimes.”

His eyes sparkled at the statement. “I know.” I laughed louder and I bit my lip as I heard Dash whimpering, almost waking from his sleep. Sky looked at my head then and twirled a strand with his finger. When he faced me again, his gaze was serious. He sighed, but then it was followed by a tender smile. 

“I might be pushing too far, but Ryne,” he paused and looked at me with those timeless eyes.

“I think I’m falling for you.”


            Part III: 

It’s funny how something so beautiful could start from just six words. Just six words. I looked at him, a smile of both happiness and deep anxiousness on my face. How come I didn’t see this coming?

He said to me, “But I don’t want to mess this up.” he paused then added, “And I just want you to know that I’m patient.” I nodded soundlessly. I wanted to ask how long was it before his time with me would be over, but I didn’t. Deep inside, I know we don’t have much time, we don’t have anything. But I don’t want to think about that. There’s just now. Just now.

I pursed my lips and smiled at him. “I did tell you that you confuse me, didn’t I?” He chuckled. “Yes, you did.” An idea seemed to struck him right then. He tilted his head to the side.

“Have you ever heard me sing?”

My jaw dropped. Sky can sing? That’s like Hitler giving of candies. I burst out laughing. That was something. “You never told me you can sing.” I accused. He smiled and responded, “Do you want to hear a sample?” I grinned. “I’d love to.”

He sat up straighter then, and enclosed me in the circle of his arms. His voice, rich and melodic, started to hit the tones with the lyrics of the song I’ve listened to countless of times – 

“You’re better than the best

I’m lucky just to linger in your light

Cooler than the flipside of my pillow

Completely unaware

Nothing can compare to where you send me

Let’s me know that it’s okay, yeah it’s okay

And the moment when my good times start to fade

You make me smile like the sun

Fall out of bed

Sing like a bird, dizzy in my head

Spin like a record, crazy on a Sunday night

You make me dance like a fool

Forget how to breathe

Shine like gold, buzz like a bee

Just the thought of you can drive me wild

Oh, you make me smile.”

Then he smiled proudly at me. I never, never knew he could do that. I was still staring at him and after a while, he gave in to the laugh he’d been holding back.

“I guess I should do that more often.”

“That was amazing!” I regained the power of speech as I praised him. Not anyone can find a person who could shoot guns and kill people and then do that. He smiled at me still, his eyes shining.

“That was for you.”

My heart jumped and I gave him a smile in return. There’s so much I still don’t know about this guy. “Thank you.” I said. He wicked at me in answer as I folded the long sleeves of the polo to make my wrists visible, and now that I did that – I turned to him, found him still staring at me and I asked the obvious,

“This is yours, right?”

He laughed. “I found after some time that I like seeing you with my clothes on.” I laughed again and asked him another question before I do something incredibly stupid. “Did you grow up in England?”

He pursed his lips before he answered. “The first five years of my life, yes. Enough time to pick up my accent.” he added. I laughed again and he did the same. “My accent is sexy, don’t you think?”

I laughed more boisterously this time, causing Dash to wake up and settle quietly in the backseat, not bothering with us. Good boy.

“Yes, Sky. Very sexy.”

He winked at me. Again. “It’s one of my special abilities.” I raised an eyebrow at him. “You make yourself sound like a Transformer.” I giggled as he rolled his eyes at me. I asked again, “So how come you’re here, if you aren’t from…here?”

“I don’t know. Maybe because you’re here.”

I grinned hugely but tried to smother it – and failed. “Would you please stop being so damned sweet all the time? Can’t I have – ”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” He responded while smiling, feigning ignorance. He continued as he kissed the side of my head, “What the hell is ‘sweet’ anyway?” I giggled. “Can I have a decent conversation now, please?” He hugged me tightly. “What is decent?” I laughed, finally giving in and hugging him in return. “I give up. You’re such a little – ”

“Okay, okay. I transferred to California with my parent on my sixth birthday.” he said, pulling back from the hug. “Should I continue?”

“Yeah. Go on.”

“I went to school, had friends and everything. Then on my 14^th birthday my parent had an accident. Car accident.” Oh fuck. I stared at him, but he seemed comfortable with sharing with me. He automatically put a finger to my lips, knowing I would say something and he continued speaking,

“My closest living relative was back in England. So the social workers gave me to a foster home. I had five, actually.” He chuckled. “Then I settled in one of the five, in North Carolina and I made some friends again, slowly getting the hang of life. Then when I turned 18, I got a job, and that’s all it, really.” 

I licked my lips uncomfortably. “I had no idea that you were a…yeah. Sorry.” I feel like kicking myself. What a way to ruin the mood. Nice going, Ryne. I always end up ruining everything.

“It’s fine, really. It was a long time ago. Ancient history.” he smiled at me reassuringly and I smiled back as best as I could. I asked another question to keep both our mind off things. “You don’t have any siblings, or cousins or anything?” He shrugged it off like it was nothing and answered, “Nope. Just me. They figured it would be unfair if only selected people would be given extremely good looks – ”

“And a big ego, apparently – ” 

He laughed at what I said and replied, “Yeah, that too. I have a picture of my family, by the way. Do you want to see it?” Picture? I lifted an eyebrow at his smiling face. “Are you serious this time?”

He didn’t answer but put a hand on his pocket and brought out his wallet. I never really given thought to the wallet before – except that it contains the money we pay for the really expensive hotels and the credit cards, of course. I remembered the trip to the Marquette then and I smiled. It feels as if it just happened yesterday.

“Why are you smiling?”

I turned my gaze to him, still smiling. “I just remembered when we went to Canberra.” As I talked, he smiled as well. “It was incredibly perfect. But then you had to get a flu right after – ”

“If only someone had planned more properly, we wouldn’t have been stuck, staring at a private plan a million stories above us – ” he quieted me down with his laughter, mingling with the still-raging rain outside. He took my hand and kissed it.

“I beg your pardon for the, Your Highness – ”

“Oh, shut up.” I tried my best to say that in a scolding way but you know what happened. “Let me see the picture, will you?”

He flipped the wallet open and directly below the line of credit cards was the picture of a family of three good-looking people. The woman who had her hand interlocked with the younger Sky was the kind of person who certainly turns a lot of heads as she walks by. Her blonde curls fell to her back and she looked really, really happy. The view behind them was of the blue ocean and the sky and there was a single white yacht gliding on the blue ocean, creating a beautiful scene. Sky’s mother had green eyes. Exactly like his. In the picture, Sky’s father had warm brown eyes and buff figure. His arms were wide and his frame was quite big but he looked inviting and attractive all the same. And fatherly, most definitely. The sunlight was glinting off their hair and faces but they didn’t seem to care. Sky’s dad had his arm around little Sky. And speaking of,

“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but you’re the cutest five year-old I’ve ever laid eyes on.” He laughed at my reaction. “How did you know my age?”

“This place is absolutely Britain.”

He smiled as he reminisced about the place. “Yes,” he said. “Absolutely.”

I hadn’t taken my eyes off the picture. I wasn’t exaggerating when I said that Sky was extremely cute. His cheeks were so squishy! I gritted my teeth as I looked at him in the picture. He was already wearing glasses – made him look a lot cuter, oh Lord. One chubby hand was with his mother and the other one was holding his father around the waist, as the father put an arm around his small shoulders. They were all smiling like they’re having the time of their lives.

Looking at them made me remember a family of my own.

“You have a beautiful family.”

            Sky smiled at me, pocketing the wallet. “This wallet is also my family album, in a way.” I smiled at him and felt that nothing could be better than this.

Chapter 32: Formality

Chapter 32: Formality (Wattpad)

The good thing is I got out of the situation alive, right? Thoughts scurried through my brain as I watched the television – but not really taking anything in. It was almost 8:30 pm – almost time for sleep. After that godforsaken incident earlier in the day, we’ve been quiet as the grave. I have no intention whatsoever of sharing this to anyone. Especially Imah. Not her. 

As I sat on the couch, seeing the colours and the movements rather than the show itself, I pursed my lips for he hundredth time and both of my hands rubbed the sides of my neck – for the millionth time. 

Every time I do that, I get a flashback; which makes me shiver from goose bumps all the freaking time. I’m sure my face is as red as a tomato at the moment, so I dare not look at Sky, who was reading a book by the lamp, several meters to my left. When he just pursed or licked his lips, I almost drool and stare. Then rub my neck again. It’s ridiculous. I breathed in deeply.

Then I remembered something. I did the epic face palm. “Geez! Of all the days – ”

“What? What is it?” Sky turned to face me, an eyebrow raised. I took one look at him and blushed even further. I hate you, Ryne. You ruin everything. He blushed lightly himself, a tint of colour on his cheeks. I answered him. “I – it’s nothing. I just remembered that it’s training tomorrow so yeah…” He pursed his lips and I looked away before I do something stupid. I heard him say, “Right. Training.” he paused then continued. “I can ask Xav to come, you know. Or maybe even Imah.”

I recognize a miracle if I see one. God is good.

“That would be nice.”

So now, 10 minutes later, I’m brushing my teeth, barely knowing what time is it. When I changed clothes earlier, for the first time, I felt different about them. The clothes. They’re his for Christ’s sake – he wore them once and now I’m wearing it. 

I paused with what I’m doing and touched the hem of the shirt. I’m going insane. I really am. I rinsed my mouth afterwards and went to the bedroom, wanting to stop time and take off to another planet. I buried myself on the sheets immediately, momentarily forgetting about by glasses. Tomorrow would be a lifesaver. It would be.

 

I had no idea what I was doing. I was just staring at the blank wall by the side of my bed. The world could have been crumbling to pieces for all I care. Then I heard the opening of the door. Automatically, I turned to the doorway and instantly regretting it. Seriously. Who else would I expect? Dash? Sky took one glance at me and looked away. He started going to his side of the bed, shutting off the lights on his way. The room was dim, then I sat up slowly to put off my glasses and place them on the low table beside my head. 

I felt Sky settle in the sheets and I heard him take off his own glasses. I lay down on the bed, shutting my eyelids closed. It would’ve been easier if he wasn’t nice. I mean, I don’t like him – I love Carsh – but initially, there is an attraction. Certainly, there is. I just don’t want it to gout of hand. That wouldn’t help anyone or anything. I’ll just have to act as normal as possible, prevent anything serious to forge between the two of us. He seemed unable to sleep as well, thinking things like I was. Maybe the same things, too. He said, 

“It would be easier to live life without regrets, you know. Or restraints.”

I shut off his voice. He wasn’t helping matters at all.


           Monday

I blinked my eyes open, waking from a horrible dream. It was so irrational and crazy. I was being chased by Mr. Mafia – I don’t remember his face anymore, but he was waving a chainsaw. Chainsaw. The guy was chasing me with a freaking chainsaw. In the dream, I turned to Sky for help, but then he snubbed me, saying he didn’t care about me.

Yes, the dream was irrational.

I turned to his side of the bed and found him sitting up, looking at me. Will anyone just stop staring at me? It’s still early in the morning. I grabbed my glasses then sat up, facing him. I don’t want to talk – I have nothing to say in the first place. He too, just looked at me. Just looked. It was like he was thinking something over. Then he looked down, straightening his glasses at the bridge of his nose. 

“They’ll be here in less than an hour.” he said, then he faced me, smiling. “We’d better get ready.” I nodded then smiled in return. I slipped off the bed. The problem with Xavia and Imah coming  is that they might – okay, they eventually will – find out something’s off. I rummaged inside the backpack, looking for something suitable to wear. I heard Sky go out. This will really be a problem. Imah is trained to know, while Xavia’s trained to see. I clicked my tongue. This plan will backfire. Just wait and see.


            “Ryne!”

“Hey, Im – ”

“I’m so glad to see you!”

Imah hugged me tightly, blonde hair touching my cheeks. Meanwhile Xavia hugged Sky, putting her arms around his neck and Sky doing the same around her waist. My brows creased without my noticing. What are they playing at? Someone tugged at my hand hard. Imah faced me. 

 

“I saw that.”

Her eyes were sparkling and wide. I scowled deeper. “Saw what?” She scrutinized me. “I’m gonna find out what happened, Ryne.” Then she grinned. “I told you this would happen!” I sighed. I knew it. “It was nothing. And there’s nothing to find out.”

“Did someone ever tell you how bad you lie?”

I glared at her half-heartedly. She just chuckled and held my hand. Xavia turned to me, while Imah moved to her place in front of Sky, a knowing look in her eyes. He looked bewildered.

“What?”

I gritted my teeth at the scene. Why does this have to happen to me – of all people! I turned my gaze to the glorious face of Xavia and she was smiling slightly.

“Something happened, right?”

I groaned. “You people – ”

“Sky didn’t say anything.” she said, smiling further, showing her perfect set of teeth. “And I don’t think he ever will. I’m kind of hoping for a different reaction from you.” I gave her a pleading look. “Imah is enough for one person, please – ”

She shook her head, lips pursed. “This must be really good.” I sighed. This is hopeless. Imah came over to us, Sky in tow. “Let’s get started! I’m excited to see Ryne on her first day.” By the look on her face, it seems obvious that she’s excited about definitely something else. They have no idea what they’re talking about. Xavia said,

“Let’s go sit on the couch. And Sky,” she turned to him, “Why don’t you prepare us some drinks?” he nodded absently, exiting from the room. She and Imah held my shoulders and steered me to the couch. Imah faced me once we were seated.

“Now, my dear. What the hell happened?”

I turned to Xavia, somehow hoping that she’s going to help me get out of my dilemma.

No such luck.

I leaned back, resting my head against the support of the couch. “Things are complicated enough – ” 

“I still want to know.” said Xavia.

“I need to know.” Imah, this time. 

“You two knowing won’t help at all – ”

They seemed unfazed by any of my protests. Well, what else could I expect? They’ve been with Sky for a long time, by the looks of it. When Imah finds out, she’ll undoubtedly dance the Irish jig in joy and encourage us and with Xavia – I have no idea. That’s what kills me. Her relationship with Sky seems to be blurry for me. This entire situation is damned blurry. 

“Stop that, Ryne. And spill everything.” Imah interrupted. Xavia piped up next. “We won’t judge you for it.” She looked at me sincerely. “I promise.”

I bit my lip. It’s not even serious! And I have absolutely no intention for it to be. Nothing. That event, situation, or whatever the hell it is yesterday had been a slip. An accident. He wasn’t on his right mind. A bark interrupted my thoughts and Dash bouded up to me. Then instantly, he turned to Imah.

“Aww! He remembered me!” she continued to cuddle my dog. Xavia reverted her attention to Dash as well. “So this is, err, Zombie?” I stared at her. I thought that issue was over. “His name is Dash.” I explained. “Sky has a weird sense of – ”

They both laughed. Imah said, “You don’t have to be so grumpy. Lighten up!” I scowled. “Can’t. How can I? When – ” 

“Is it that serious?” she said and Xavia leaned forward eagerly. 

“No! There’s nothing serious about this at all!” God, help me. Nothing serious, I almost scoffed. Nothing serious with being kidnapped by someone who apparently wants to ‘live his life without regrets.’

Or restraints.

This restraint is fucking necessary. 

Xavia craned her neck to see me better. “Well then, if it isn’t serious, why are you afraid to tell us?”

“I’m not afraid. You’re twisting my words – ”

“No, we’re not.” they replied in unison. I sighed in frustration. “I would be mad if I told – ”

“Then we’ll ask Sky.” Imah said. Xavia turned to her. “Maybe we can do both?” Imah shrugged. “Later. Let’s break Ryne first – ”

“Break? Isn’t that an overstatement?”

Imah grinned. “We’re willing to do anything and everything – ”

“It’s not important. We – ”

“Fell in love?”

“No!”

Xavia entered the fray. “What’s wrong with telling us, then?”

“It’s just… uncomfortable.”

Imah spoke. “How come?” I recalled the events of last day. I rubbed my neck violently and pursed my lips shut.

“Err, are you okay, Ryne?” she asked. 

“I’m fine.” I replied, clearing my throat. 

Xavia raised an eyebrow. “You’re blushing.” 

I turned to her. “People blush. There’s nothing – ” she laughed aloud, her laughter and beautiful face lighting up the living room. “I think I know!” she exclaimed triumphantly, carefully looking at my neck and pursed lips. She laughed again and I blushed deeper. I knew it. I bloody knew it. 

Imah reached beyond me and grasped Xavia’s wrist. “What did you see?”

“Didn’t you see what she did?”

Imah paused for about three seconds then, “That one?! Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” I interrupted before either of them gets any ideas. The plan just backfired.

“That was a slip. That was nothing – ”

“No, it’s not.” Imah replied. “We know him.”

I scrutinized her expression. “So will you please elaborate and enlighten me with – ”

“It’s really simple! It’s obvious that there is an attraction – ”

“A delicious attraction, apparently.” Xavia injected. I stared at her, mouth agape. “You’re not helping!” She chuckled, satisfied. “Sorry. Go on, Imah.”

“As I said – attraction. All you have to do is stoke the fires a bit, so to say, and voila!” she was almost bouncing with joy. 

 

“Stoke the fires?” She’s kidding. They don’t understand at all! She responded,

“Yes. Stoke the fires.” 

“I’m not intending this to go out of hand – ”

 

“Why? What’s with Sky that you don’t want?”

“Nothing! I – ”

“See?!” They both said.

“I have a boyfriend!”

They both paused. Dash barked. 

“Oh.”

“That.”

I looked at them. “Yes, that.” Imah’s eyebrows crunched together and her eyes seemed troubled. “But – but – ”

“What?”

Xavia suddenly sat up straighter, her ears pricked. “He’s coming.” I let Dash climb up to my lap as Sky came in, a tray of juice carried. He set each one in front of us, and looked for a place to sit. Imah immediately grabbed my arm and pulled my sideways and Xavia moved to the other side.

Damn them. I glared at Imah. Sky just rolled his eyes, sighed, and sat down. The couch was only meant for three people, so we were all jam-packed like sardines. I shifted uncomfortably, his thigh rubbing against mine and as well as his shoulder. Imah suddenly squealed.

“Oh my gosh! Where did you get your anklet?” 

My muscles tensed and my face flushed. I saw Sky scowling and I faced Imah, forcing a smile on my face. “It’s a – ”

“Is that your initial?” she asked. Xavia looked about in interest, after taking a sip of juice. Sky exhaled and he got a glass of juice. I did as well and drank the damned juice, then I turned back to Imah.

She gave in to the chuckle which she smothered with a smug grin. I asked her, “So, where were we?”

“I have no idea – ”

“Is that an emerald?” Xavia asked, with an eyebrow raised. “Right there on your initial?” I sighed. “Well,” I said, frustrated. “it’s – ” 

Sky interrupted. “Yes, Xav. It’s an emerald.” He raised an eyebrow, as if to say Happy? She just nodded. “It’s nice.” then she shrugged, as though the accessory didn’t interest her in the least.

I asked the three of them, “Where do we go?”

Xavia answered. “The firing range.”

“The what?”

Imah chuckled again. “The firing range, Ryne.” We’re going there immediately? That’s just so… scary. It’s like they expect too much from me! I never shot a single bullet in my existence. I knew my face was drained of blood when I faced them.

“But – but I don’t – ”

Xavia said, “It’s gonna be fine. We’ll teach you.”

“Yeah, and we’ll take Dashy here with us.” Imah added, her tone reassuring. Sky said nothing but he out an arm around me, patting my shoulder comfortingly. He whispered, pulling me towards him. “No need to be so worried. We got you.” Then I saw his lips turn up in a smile.

             Oh, God. Help me.