Chapter 40: Time too soon

Chapter 40: Time too soon (Wattpad)

Part I:

The instant I said those words, Sky reached out to my shoulder and pulled me towards him. I barely heard what my own grandfather was saying on the other line as his lips covered mine.

I kissed him back, one hand going up to grip his hair and kept him in place.

“Ryne?”

I pulled away from Sky for a moment, remembering how to breathe as I answered the phone, with Sky still nuzzling my neck.

“Yes?” I responded breathlessly.

“If what you’re saying is true – ”

“It is.”

“But…Ryne, my dear – ”

“Do you want to talk to him?” I looked into the deep, green, glazed eyes of Sky’s as I waited for an answer. 

“Yes. Give him the phone.” he said in a curt voice. Uh-oh. Without hesitation, I did. Sky straightened but his hand continued to caress my cheek.

“Sir.”

-

He held breath as he listened, waiting for the voice to come out on the phone and to his ear.

“Just what the fuck do you think you’re doing?”

“Sir – ”

“I told you, La Brea. For God’s sake. Is a simple instruction so hard to do?”

“I never intended for this to happen, sir. Believe me – ”

“I ordered you to bring my only granddaughter to me and – ” 

“I will, sir. I promise I will.”

“You better.” Then the line went dead.

He shrugged. Well, that was easy.

-

I touched his hand that was holding my face. “Well? What did he say?” he threw the phone on the bed and came to me. “What? I really can’t remember.” then he kissed me again, and I felt him smile against my lips. But when one of his hands started gripping my hair, I felt the mood shift. 

At that kiss, I felt something melt inside that hurt in an exquisite way – all my longings, all my dreams and sweet anguish, all the secrets that slept within me awake. Everything was transformed into something enchanted. Everything made sense.

The room was dim, despite the early hours of the day and he slowly lay me down on the bed, still in the kiss and took off his shirt. 

It’s obvious we won’t be having a word said for the meantime.


           Part II:

The maelstrom. The maelstrom inside me is beating the living shit out of me. I drew the covers higher up to my chin. That was the most glorious mistake – that doesn’t feel much like a mistake – in my entire life.

Sky sat up, his chest bare and he ruffled his already messy hair. For one second, he gazed practically nowhere then he looked at me.

To be honest, he looked adorably disheveled.

He started smiling slowly and I can’t help but smile myself, then I covered my face with the blanket. I started giggling. He said amusedly while chuckling, “What’s supposed to be funny?”

“You should ask yourself.” I answered right back. Then he asked me, “Wait, you’re 17, right?”

I looked up at him and gave him a withered look. “I’ll be 18 in less than a month. Just a few more weeks.”

“All the same, you’re still 17.” He grinned at me. I can’t help smiling back. “You look as if that’s no big problem.” 

“Few weeks.” he shrugged. “Little difference. And, oh wait. Was that your first?”

That. Was. Insulting.  Oh, no. Wait, you’re getting the wrong idea. Intrusive is the word. Yes, intrusive.

I sat up as fast as lightning, pushing him off the bed. “Get out, you stupid – ”

“Hey! I was asking! Politely, mind you.”

“I don’t give a damn.”

He laughed loudly as he took hold of my hands and kissed each of my fingers.

“Your face could compete with a tomato, Ryne.” I shot him daggers but then he grinned. “You’re beautiful.”

Aargh. I blushed deeper. “Thanks.” I said begrudgingly. He just laughed louder in response, then shifted closer to me, pulling his arms around me and burying his head on my hair. He started raining kisses on my head.

“You’re such a romantic git.” I chuckled.

“One of my best qualities.” he said, pulling away and winking at me. I asked, “So what did he say, really?”

“Your grandfather?”

“No. My gardener, Sky. Really.”

“Oh! Of course, how stupid of me.” then he pulled my chin up and kissed me.

I laughingly pulled away. This guy must be part British, part cannibal. “God, I want to know! I’m dying here.” he shook his head, a sparkle in his eyes. “Since you’re dying, okay then. It was gloriously short and full of…stuff.”

“What stuff?”

“You know, he short of lashed out at me – ”

“He what?”

“Lashed out at me.” he replied, shrugging. “It seemed like he knew it was going to happen sometime – ”

“And then? What else did he – ”

“Relax, Ryne. Your grandfather doesn’t just rip someone’s head off.”

“It’s just that…he sounded really…tough.” But that doesn’t just cover it; I don’t think there’s even a word to describe him, to be frank.

“He just said to bring you to him and – ”

“What? When?”

“Stop shooting questions at me!” he gently kissed my temple. “Just one at a time, my dear.”

“When?”

He grabbed the phone that dropped to the floor when we…you know. You can use your imagination, can’t you? Yes, you can.

Sky checked it for a moment and his head came up to me sharply. “Tomorrow.”

What?!

“Tomorrow? Let me see – ”

“No! I’m sure it’s tomorrow. You don’t have to see.” he protested, putting the phone away from my reach. 

“If there’s nothing wrong then why aren’t you – ”

“There’s a bit of a, uhm – ”

“Lashing out?” I guessed, raising an eyebrow. He nodded his head yes, and my eyes clouded in nervous thinking. Tomorrow.

Why does it have to be so soon?

“Hey.” Sky came to me and settled me on his lap easily. “I’m sure it would be okay. There’s nothing to worry about; they all love you, you know.”

“They? You actually met them?”

He pursed his lips then he answered, “Yes, I did.” I bit my lip, thinking further. “The file doesn’t say much about my grandfather.” I turned to him and continued speaking, “What does he look like?”

His gaze turned to one of deep comprehension. “He must’ve been handsome once. Just imagine George Clooney being a lot older. Lots older, then you have your grandpa. They even have the same name.” he mused.

“Lots?” I repeated. “Is he that old?”

He shook his head vigorously as he said hastily, “No, no. It’s more like, when you look into his face, you know he has it hard. And no white hair. Only grey. So you can breathe.”

“I wasn’t thinking of that! But anyway. Is he tall? Intimidating? Moderately intimidating? Extremely intimidating?

“Extremely, yes. And he’s tall.”

I gave a low whistle. “He must be really something.” He grinned. “Oh, yes. He is.”

“So what about my cousins?” I continued asking as I relaxed my body against his, my head on the crook on his neck. He replied, “Your cousins. Which one? Alexa?”

“Let’s start with her.” I was attentively listening even as I took hold of his hand and started tracing the lines of his palm. “Alexa is the brainy one. She’s every inch a Cavanagh.”

“What do you mean, Captain Obvious?”

“She is uhm, regal, in a way. Your grandfather said that with strangers, she could be aloof but with family and friends, she could be quite fun. Long hair, brainy, average height.”

I blinked as I took it all in. I wonder if she’s going to be aloof when I’m with her. To divert myself from troubling thoughts, I asked another question, “And Colleen? Is she uhmm, the outgoing cousin or something?”

“Hardly. You could say that she jokes quite a lot. And she’s kind of loud, but she definitely prefers indoors.”

“How do you know?” I said, eyeing him.

“She told me she never used a paddle in her life.”

Whoa. A smile started showing on my face. “I think we’ll go along well.” he laughed at that, and then surprisingly, he rubbed the tip of his nose to mine. I love it when he does that. “Perhaps.” He paused right there, still looking at my eyes closely. He said, “I feel weird; I remember thinking about you in the middle of the night after we went shopping. You were pestering my mind, I should say.”

I laughed. “My mom used to say – I mean my mother Leia. She used to say that if you can’t get someone out of your head, maybe they’re supposed to be there. Even if they are pestering.”

He smiled. “Mmm.” was his only reply as he kissed both of my wrists before moving to my mouth. When I finally pulled back to breathe air, I asked. “How are going to get to them tomorrow?” 

“We have a plan.”

             I laughed when he wasted no time and began nuzzling my ear. “Okay, Captain La Brea.” As the afternoon sun began to dip down on the horizon, I should’ve known right then and there that things don’t really go to plan.

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 35: The proper way

Chapter 35: The proper way (Wattpad)

Part I: 

The way back was quiet and peaceful. I drew my knees to my chest and put my arms around myself, back on the passenger seat. The engine was rumbling beneath us and the hard rain from later turned to a slight drizzle.

If only we had met under different situations. Completely different ones. But I paused in my thinking. If we had met under different circumstances, I probably wouldn’t know him like I do now. I don’t know if I should be glad about knowing that. I felt Sky’s gaze turn to me again while he was driving and I looked out of the car window.

“If you don’t quit looking at me, we’ll never see sunlight ever again. Ever hear the word ‘accident’ before?” He just chuckled and faced the bare road again. “There are no cars around. No traffic.”

“The road is wet, Mr. La Brea.”

He rolled his eyes at what I said. Such a prick. He responded “We’re almost at the main road, closer to the hotel. You better get ready.” I just nodded and grabbed my bags, shouldering one of the slings and tying Dash with my other hand. Then out of the blue, he asked, his tone serious – 

“Have you ever thought of Britain?”

Whoa. Where did that come from? I faced him, saw that he was still paying attention to the road and then I replied, “Sometimes. Why?”

He never took his eyes off the road as he said, “I’d like to take you there someday.” 

My heart melted at those words. I just smiled and didn’t bother replying – nothing can do justice to what he just said. For the duration of the way back to the hotel, I watched the landscapes turn into commercialized buildings and the increasing population of cars on the road. I thought of Britain. There was the Tower Bridge. The London Eye. The wonderful beaches. The royal palaces. The might castles, the massive cathedrals. The Big Ben. Me and Sky in Britain? 

In spite of the impossibility of it, I smiled at the picture it conjured up.

That would be life-changing.


           15 minutes later

The elevator dinged open and we stepped out with three other people. My whole body ached and my shoulders. They’re killing me. I almost groaned as Sky punched in the numbers on the hidden monitor and finally, we stepped in the room. I released Dash flopped down immediately to the sofa. This day had been extremely heavy.

Sky sorted out the baggage after closing and locking the door. Does he ever get tired? I lay properly on the sofa, but keeping my shoes off the mattress and I heard him make his way to me. He removed the backpack from my shoulders and next, he took off my shoes. I yawned then said to him, “That’s the kind of thing my mom would do.” He smiled and I put both of my feet on the sofa, incredibly relaxed in a while. He replied, “What? Fall for you?”

I pursed my lips to keep from smiling. “No. Treat me like a child, it you know what I mean.” He removed his own shoes and sat in front of me on the floor, our eyes on level and I pushed the sleeves of the polo all the way to my elbows. He told me, 

“I actually want to do something. But I don’t know whether you like it or not, so I’ll just ask your permission.”

My eyebrows drew together. This is a dangerous ground. What is he talking about? He continued saying, “I want to have you. The proper way.”

Oh my God.

“You mean – ”

“Courting you? Yes, most definitely.” 

I stared at him, looking for signs that he was joking.

He wasn’t.

I sat up, still looking at him. “Why would – you said that you don’t – ”

“That’s why I’m asking for your permission.” he said, licking his lips and he raised his eyebrows. “Please?”

My jaw fell to the ground. This is crazy. Absolutely crazy. I didn’t want this. I have no idea this would happen. I looked into his green eyes. “Are you sure? I really don’t – ”

He smiled and cut me off, “You don’t see what I see, don’t you?”

“See what?”

“That you’re a really beautiful person. Flaws and all.”

I smiled then shook my head. This situation is so fucking messed up. I bit my lip then replied, voice low. “I just don’t want you making decisions on temporary emotions – ”

“This isn’t temporary.” He said with such intensity in his eyes.

I sighed resignedly. “Let’s just give it a few more days, okay? I still need to…to sort things in my mind.”

“If you don’t feel the same way, you just have to say it.”

My head snapped up and I sat up. My eyes met with his. “It’s not that. It’s just – ”

“I won’t hold it against you. I just want to know so I’ll know what to do. Because I don’t. I don’t know what to do.” He said, his voice overflowing with emotions. I closed my eyes and covered my face with my hands. “That’s the problem. I don’t know, either.” What I heard next was silence. It was one of the loudest silences I’ve ever experienced. This is so complicated. I felt his hand close around my ankle and heard him say,

“I’m sorry. Never mind what I said.” 

I faced him again, seeing his sad eyes. Then he continued, “Forget everything I said.”

“Everything?”

He smiled wistfully. “I don’t want to make this more complicated for you. I’m really sorry. Let’s just…” he breathed in deeply. “Let’s just not make this harder than it already is.”

I can’t think. I don’t know what to do. I have no idea what to say – I want to.

But I can’t.

Then I heard him say, I know I can’t have you.”

My heart broke into a million pieces.


            Part II: 

Waiting is painful. I know that. Forgetting is painful. I know that, too. But not knowing which to do is the worst kind of suffering. 

I’m having that right now.

I sank lower to the warm tub water. I don’t know what to do. I don’t know what’s right from wrong anymore. My head throbbed and I sighed deeply. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. But right this second, it was hard to deny that I’ve fallen for those green eyes of his as well.

So what’s stopping me?

I put a hand to my forehead. Every fucking thing. It’s not right. We don’t have forever. We don’t have happily ever after. We don’t have anything. I looked up to the pristine white ceiling of the bathroom. It’s a relationship doomed before it even started. 

Either way, we won’t have each other.

All the more reason to fight for him.

I was jolted by that train of thought. I straightened my back, sorting my thought and staring at nothing in particular. The voice in my head sounded like my mother. 

It’s a long time since she dictated my decisions even in thought.

I sighed for the millionth time and almost smiled.

Mothers knows best.


           Part III: 

I combed my in front of the mirror as best as I could, to make myself look presentable. To be honest, I have no idea how to open the subject with him. I don’t know what to say. Or even how to act. Just go with the flow. I sighed, eyeing myself in a big white shirt and grey cargo shorts. I pushed the glasses higher up to the bridge of my nose and smiled a little.

Okay, I thought, putting the brush down and going outside the bathroom door. I didn’t bother with the slippers and checked on Dash. He was sleeping in his new spot and after I made sure that he was fine, I slowly went to the direction of the bedroom door. I pursed my lips as I took one last step and started opening the doorknob.

Only someone opened it from the other side.

I was startled a little bit when it opened and the look on his face showed that he hadn’t been expecting me, either.

He changed his clothes already and now he looked at me with deep, green eyes. 

It’s hard not to fall into them.

I smiled a little bit, pleased to see a smile of his own forming on his lips. He said, “I was just going to check on you. But then…” My smile widened. “I was just about to go in as well.” But he didn’t seem to be listening as he took one of my hands and held it, putting his forehead on mine. He said,

“It’s hard to hold back when I hold you like this, Ryne. It’s really hard.” Then he caught my other hand and held it likewise. He sighed, looking down. I did not make a sound as he slowly leaned in, getting closer and closer and finally, his lips captured mine. 

He was gentle and loving. Giving everything, yet expecting nothing in return. He put his hand at the back of my neck and put I put mine on his head and gripped his hair. He backed me slowly to the wall to the side of the doorway and I felt myself stopped by the hard wall. Now, he pulled back an inch and looked in my eyes, his expression surrendering. 

He looked down on the floor and gave a bitter chuckle. “I had no idea I would find you.” He said in a hoarse voice.

I bit my lip as he talked. I never felt like that before – his lips against mine were firm, not demanding and very sweet. I sighed and leaned my head back against the wall. It was everything I wanted and more.

I want more.

I felt his hands rubbing against my cheeks and I looked up. He told me in a still slightly hoarse voice, “And to think I was the one who told you to not make things more complicated.” He shook his head and I couldn’t resist touching his face and his yes looked startled then, the fleck of those green orbs shining.

“Ryne?”

I didn’t bothering answering but stepped forward and pressed his lips to mine. I felt him smiling and a drop of tear from his eyes fell to my cheek. I smiled as well, kissing his neck and pulling back to gaze at him. He gave a strangles laugh, put his forehead on mine once again as he faced me, and never taking his eyes off me. Then he said the three words that I realized I’ve been waiting for a long time.

              “I love you.”

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.