Chapter 30: Samantha

Chapter 30: Samantha (Wattpad)

So now, I have an extremely useful book, an iPad and a bangle, which is still on my arm. And the anklet, of course. After we played another game, we ate dinner – sautéed mussels, my favourite. We put out the lights on the candles one by one, Sky holding my waist, in case of my fall number two. It seemed to take an eternity. How the hell had he managed the light all of this again?

“This is the 50^th candle, did you know that?” I said, turning my head to look at him. He shrugged, changing the location of the candle as he put it back down. He was behind me, guiding me to keep me from falling as he said, “Only a few more.” Then he yawned. “If you want,” he continued, “you can go to sleep. You already washed up anyway – ”

“I feel guilty. I’m sure this won’t take long – ” then without speaking, he lifted me off my feet and carried me to the bedroom. The gentle rocking movement of his body is lulling me to sleep, then he laid me down on the bed. 

“I’m tired.” I mumbled sleepily. 

“I know. It’s kind of obvious.” He pulled the blanket up to me and I removed my glasses. “Goodnight. I hope you like my surprise by the way.” he said, his voice hushed as I closed my eyes. 

“Mmm. I do.” then my brain shut down completely.

-

This girl does nothing but sleeps and eats. He gently brushed a strand of hair away from her sleeping face, and took off her slippers, shutting the lights on his way out. He resumed the blowing of candles all by himself this time. With every candle put off, the room grew dimmer and dimmer, the smoke rising up to the ceiling. When the last candle flame had been extinguished, the room was in complete darkness. This is bizarre – he suddenly felt alone. Then his feet carried him back to the bedroom, pulling off his footwear, changed his clothes quickly and faced the bed. 

He hesitated.

He looked at Ryne on the bed, sleeping, then next looked at the couch. To hell with it. His tired body gave in and he settled on the left side of the bed, facing her. He shared the blanket and willed himself to sleep, and found that he couldn’t. 

He then turned his attention to Ryne. Her hair was fanned out in front of her and out of curiosity, he stroked it, the brownish colour of her hair turning black in the lack of adequate lighting. He took his glasses off and sighed, problematic.

 

Yes, she’ll hate me.

-


Sunday

I clutched the blanket tighter to my chest, feeling cold. I tried to bring myself back to sleep but – I failed. When my hand moved to the other side of the bed, I felt something light and soft. And something definitely out of place. I slowly opened my eyes, straining to see in spite of the light of the room and went automatically for my glasses with my free hand. Then I saw what I was holding. 

A rose.

Yes. Definitely out of place. 

The rose was in the place where Sky should’ve been sleeping. There was a letter attached to it but I glanced at the couch first, making sure. He’s not there. Hmm. I turned to the rose and letter on my hand. This trick looks like the ones from those cheesy movie clips. Typical Sky, losing his head every once in a while. I didn’t sit up on the bed but rather opened the letter while still lying down, my view sideways. It read,

Ryne,

If you’re reading this, I’m probably not back yet. I’ll be back soon, okay? No funny business while I’m gone. I just had to do something important. I already reinstalled the monitor password com, so you don’t have a way out. Don’t even think about it. I left you some food from the room service and it’s at the table when you get hungry later. I had a wonderful time last night. I hope it’s not too grand for you. And please don’t remove the anklet.

Be back soon,

Sky

Of course I couldn’t escape. How wonderful. And he was what? Going somewhere ‘important.’ When I read the ending part though, it felt weird – he was so sure that I’m going to hate him. And now that I mention it, Imah said that in her letter, as well as Xavia. That feels really uncomfortable. How do you expect to hate someone who has done nothing but make you happy? I drew the covers up to my face again. This sucks. Why do they have to be so cryptic, anyway?

Then the door banged open and Dash came bounding in. 

“Hey, Dash.”

I let him clamber up to the bed and greet me good morning in his own dog-ish way. He was standing on all fours on top of the bed and I put my head against his back. Laziness is epic and more evident in the mornings. I opened my right eye then. The room so empty and wide. This is stupid. I feel really left out. To better keep my mind off things, I grabbed clothes and went inside the bathroom of the room. 

This is actually new, I thought. I can do whatever I want without someone constantly annoying me to death. I pursed my lips. I’ll make most of my time alone. Better make the most of it.


           Being alone sucks. Where the bloody hell is that guy?! It’s almost an hour. A bloody hour. I glared at all the food wrappers and plastic containers on the dining table. I think I’ve eaten everything. The gourmet breakfast didn’t seem to be enough so I rummaged through the freezer – that was 30 minutes ago, maybe less. I don’t really know. I already read Xavia’s book and was halfway through it when I decided to play the iPad. Alone. No challenge whatsoever. So I gave up easily and resumed eating. Tried to watch the television with Dash. Alone.

How dare that person leave me alone. 

I stood up, glancing around the room. Sudden inspiration struck me. I quickly cleaned up the dining – see? I’m not an entirely evil person – and went out to the living room, Dash on my heels. What I planned to do isn’t exactly exciting, but I’d rather do something. I opened all the drawers of the cabinet, one by one, starting from the top. The first one had clothes, then more clothes, next were the candles from last night. The living room this morning was back to its neutral setting – the dull curtains and the rest of the package. The next drawer had the roses. They were in vases with water to keep them from dying. I looked at them and remembered the other one on the bedroom where I did exactly the same thing - put it in a vase. I don’t know why, but I grabbed a handful and bound it with my hair tie. I crouched down to the floor and opened the last drawer.

Bingo.

There was a briefcase. A sturdy-looking one. Sturdy means awesome, right? There’s got to be something in this piece of leather. I pulled it out, closed the drawer and sat down on the floor. Dash came up to me and laid his head on my thigh. I looked at the row of numbers on the handle side. Everything just has to have a password. I sighed determinedly. I tried 015 – the damned birthdate. Then pushed the large square button.

Nothing.

110 – the birthday month. I pressed again. Nothing. Oh, fine. I’ll do this randomly. 257. I pushed. Nothing. I banged the briefcase to the floor in annoyance. Five more tries. Then I’ll go back to my catatonic death state.

373.

642.

914.

Damn this. Even Dash seemed to be bored to tears. 251. I pushed again. Mother of God. Nothing. I was getting ready to try the last one- whatever the hell it is – when I heard something. Something beeping. My head turned to the door so quickly that I cricked my neck. Ugh. I rubbed the back of my neck. Now he comes back. I put the briefcase down quickly and ran stealthily to the side near the doorknob. I can’t stop the huge grin on my face and I almost gave in to the evil laugh sounding through my head. The machine then by the side of my head beeped once and the doorknob started to twist. Then the door opened abruptly and the instant I saw the rim of his glasses and the outline of his body, I jumped in front of him. 

“Welcome ba – ”

“Fuck!” He pulled his gun. Gun.

 

Oh. My. God. The look on his face is priceless! I can’t stop laughing and I was holding the sides of my stomach. He looked like he saw a flying sheep or something! He was now putting his hand over his chest, breathing hard. He made an effort to close the door, though. God, help me. He turned to me, eyes accusing. I bit my lip, trying to quieten myself. But – but. I burst out laughing again.

“That was so epic!”

“It wasn’t.” he responded, waving his gun at me. “I could’ve shot you!”

I laughed still. That was amazing. Especially the gun part – for the win! He put back his gun now and faced me. I pursed my lips. He stared and stared. What now? I looked at him skeptically. “What?” He shot me a you-know-what-you-did look and said, “That wasn’t funny.” I smiled hugely. He’s so bitter. “Maybe it is, maybe not.” I said, shrugging. He sighed and his gaze turned towards my hands. He raised an eyebrow. 

“What’s with the flowers?”

“What’s with the changing of topic?” I shot right back. He put both hands on his pockets, shrugging. “It’s just that, you look like a virgin sacrifice.” My mouth opened in horror, yet he still continued. “No pun intended, of course.”

Who does he think he is? “After you left me for more than an hour, that is what you say to me?” He smiled a little. “Did you miss me?” I shot him a flat look. 

“No.”

He smiled wider and lifted an eyebrow once, shrugging his shoulders again. “I’ll just pretend that you’re not lying – ”

“I am so not.” Seriously. I forgot about the guy’s damned ego. He chuckled lightly and scanned the room. He spotted the briefcase on the floor, near the cabinet. Then his brow creased and he looked at me. 

Right, Ryne. You’re so stupid.

I spoke before he could open his mouth. “I had nothing else to do so I… yeah.” He licked his lips and asked, “You didn’t open it, didn’t you?” while walking over to the briefcase in question. I followed him. The bloody hell I opened it. That thing is impenetrable. “Of course I didn’t, Sky. I tried all the combinations known to mankind but nothing.” He put the briefcase back, feeling proud, no doubt. 

“Yes. Of course.” he replied, smiling. He had a follow-up question this time, “So what did you do the past hour?” then he leaned on the cabinet and crossed his legs, looking like a therapist. Close enough.

“I read, watched the tv, played with the new gadget, and played with Dash. Alone. Just by myself.” I responded, emphasizing the keywords. He just chuckled merrily, his green eyes twinkling. 

“Hey. I missed you too.” He laughed. I crossed my arms over my chest. So what if I did? “Ha ha, Sky. So hilarious.” He paid little attention to what I said and looked down on my left leg. I suddenly became self-conscious – I was only wearing shorts for God’s sake. Okay, they’re big shorts, but still. The hem just barely made it to the top of my knees. I straightened my huge shirt – rather Sky’s huge shirt – and raised an eyebrow at him. “What the hell are you looking at?” his gaze reverted back to my face. He smiled a satisfied smile and replied, “You didn’t take off the anklet.”

That was what he was looking at? My head tilted back in slight surprise and I looked at the present. It was sort of sparkling from where I see it and the emerald was giving off a different glow. I turned back to him, “Of course I didn’t. I’m a good person sometimes – ”

“Sometimes.” he repeated, emphasizing and nodding. I rolled my eyes. Most annoying person award. Hooray. What fun. He now looked at my left shoulder. “How about – ”

“I didn’t take it off. Of course, I really couldn’t, but – ”

“What did you eat?” he interrupted. I scowled at him. “I ate some food. I didn’t finish it all; I think there’s something left in the – ” 

“I understand, Ryne,” he said, and amused grin on his face. “Believe me, I really do.” I sighed slowly, straightening my glasses and moving back to the couch. I lay down, covering all the space that was meant for three people. 

“So what else did you do?” he asked, following me and he sat down on the couch as well and he leaned back, putting both of my feet on his lap. I admit, it feels nice. “I did nothing. I’m serious. You can ask your Zombie.” 

He chuckled, rubbing my ankles and fingering the anklet. “Maybe later. I’m a bit bushed.” I snatched a pillow and put it behind my head and got another one to hug. “Where did you go anyway?” he still locked his gaze on my ankles and massaged them, never meeting my eyes. “It’s nothing. Just something I had to do.”

I smell something. When Sky acts like this, there’s only one damned name that comes out obvious. This Samantha person is really getting to me. My forehead creased as silence commenced between us. He continued the massage though, much to my comfort. Should I ask? I looked at him as I considered. He looked a bit troubled already, what more if I ask him about her?

 

Damn this. Never mind the Samantha person, there’s always a next time. I said casually, “I should be the one massaging you, I think.” A smile tugged at the corners of his lips and he responded, “As if you would.” He does have a point. I relaxed further in the couch, settling in deeper. “That feels really nice.” Now he really smiled. “I handle guns Ryne. What do you expect?”

“How does that connect? Do my feet resemble guns or something?” he chuckled lightly. “No, they don’t.” he said, grasping them briefly before returning to the heavenly massage. “You can just learn how to handle certain things when you’re used to guns, that’s all.” I turned to the flowers on my hands. “You’ll train me now, right? Now that I’ve sort of recovered?” he nodded. “We’ll start tomorrow.” I picked one red rose from the bunch of others and held it. I just want to, okay? I like roses. I looked at Sky, and when I did like so many times, only one thought constantly crosses my mind.  

Better late than never, right?

“Who is she?”

He turned to me slowly, as if he wasn’t particularly interested in my question. Such actor. “Who is who?” I pursed my lips before saying her name.

“Samantha.” His eyes looked emotionless this time, his hands on me suddenly slower. I continued, “Who is she?” He just looked into my eyes and smiled wistfully.

“My soul mate.”

He turned back to my feet and resumed the thing he’s doing. I stared at him, shocked, eyes glazed with concern. The hands on my rose suddenly felt clammy and I tightened my grip. Poor Sky. I think I know what happened at the end of their story. 

Or maybe it hasn’t ended yet, I thought, remembering Sky’s reactions. I twirled the flower with my fingers. I found whatever courage I could and asked quite gently, “What’s she like?”

He paused with what he’s doing, staring off at nothing in particular. Then suddenly, as if an image came to him, he smiled. “Long golden hair.”

I looked at him. So that’s why. Samantha – the little girl at the Marquette – had blonde hair too. And she described her mom having ‘golden hair.’ This is ridiculous. My eyebrows crunched together. I don’t think he’ll continue anymore, but them he spoke again. “Blue eyes.” I imagined what he just described and found the image rather… beautiful. 

Sky seemed to remember my presence and turned to me, the sad smile still on his face. “She’s the complete opposite of me.” If colours could cry, his green ones would’ve been weeping right now. 

I want to know more about her. But I would never ever ask the one question. Never. From the way he looks right now, if I asked why he isn’t with her right this moment, he would probably… well, I don’t have any specific idea, but something bad. Obviously, Ryne. I said to him, “I’d like to know more about her.”

He looked at the roses at my middle, and on the one on my hand. “Every Tuesday, I would give her a rose.” he smiled then. “We met on a Tuesday, you see.”

That’s so sweet. I stared at him, lips apart. I never knew Sky had a side like this one. I remained silent, sensing it would be better if he alone spoke for the time being. His smile turned wider, like he was replaying a memory in his head. “Her parents didn’t like me because of my dangerous work.” Then the look on his face after he said that could only be of a man deeply in love. “But she didn’t care.”

Seriously. This guy is going to give me a heart attack. What the hell had he been through? Now the urge to ask him where she is right now is knocking me over. I asked a safe question before I mess things up.

“Is she British?”

He smiled, showing his pearl-white teeth. “Half.” I don’t know why, but I found myself smiling as well. I must be crazy. He blinked and looked at me. I mean, really look at me. Not like he was reliving his past – a bittersweet past, it seems. 

“You’ve been waiting for me to tell you about this, haven’t you?” 

I shrugged one shoulder, unsure how to answer. “Sort of.” he just smiled and turned to my feet, massaging them again.

           This situation is turning my world upside down.

Chapter 23: Monopoly cookies

Chapter 23: Monopoly cookies (Wattpad)

Xavia left more than an hour ago, leaving Sky watching a war movie and me soaking on the tub in a warm bath. I felt incredibly clean and relaxed as I changed my clothes – rather, Sky’s big clothes; I actually didn’t have the leisure of packing for this supposedly great adventure. I sat next to Sky at the couch, his eyes were glued to the screen and he was leaning forward slightly. It’s like he was on the war field himself or something. For the first time ever, he didn’t feel my stare burn through him. 

            Or maybe he did. Sort of.

            He’s worse than my Dad when watching these kinds of movies. Like, with every shot of gun and a cannon fired he moves closer and closer to the television screen. 

            “Sky, sit properly or you’ll get sucked in the tv.” he said,”Shh!” complete with hand gestures. I rolled my eyes and leaned on the back of the couch, feeling my still-damp hair and moving to a squatting postion.

            “I can’t believe –  ”

            “Shh!”

            That’s just plain rude! I thought, aghast. I was going to give him a compliment! A bloody compliment. Why do the testosterone-filled human beings enjoy these kinds of movies anyway? People just kill each other for no reason – it’s really downright depressing. No offense to the people out there, of course.

            “I was just going to say that – ”

            “Shh!” he said again. 

            Okay, that’s it. “Don’t you know any word besides – ”

            “Shut up, Ryne!” he replied in hushed tones. “They’re going to kill him…” his voice trailed away as his attention grew slack. 

            “That’s what the movie’s about, anyway. People just kill each other and – ” he started opening his mouth but I beat him to the punch. “Yeah, I know. Shh.”

            Five more minutes of Sky’s crazy attitude and the movie itself, I gave up. I stood up and was a half-step to the kitchen when Sky caught my wrist. How he did that while still being hypnotized by the screen was admittedly awesome. But because he was Sky freaking La Brea, he quickly changed my opinion about it. He said,

            “Where are you going? You know you’re not allowed to – ”

            “The kitchen, Sky.” Really. He wasn’t even looking at me while speaking and then he just had the guts to – “No. Who knows what you might to in there – ”

            “What? Do you think I’m too stupid that I’ll stab myself to see if it would work or – ”

            He shook his head slightly at my answer and responded, “We both know that you’re kind of smart. No need to flaunt it – ”

            “I wasn’t! I was just going to the kitchen for God’s sake.” My voice came out rather irritated. But, seriously. It’s his fault.

            “Running for valedictorian? Honor student? Yeah, Ryne, that’s you. This movie’s almost over. Just wait and we can go there together.” This guy needs help. Lots of it. 

            “So you’ll just force me to just stand here – ”

            “Of course you can sit down. You’re just making this more difficult.”

            “I am not, for the last time. I just want to go to the – ”

            “Do you want to see my handcuffs again? We should baptize him, you know, and – ” I cut him off with “Damn you.” I sat back down on the couch forcibly and tried to focus on the movie playing. Honestly, I did! But it doesn’t make much sense because I started at the last part. But I’m sure which part of the ancient history it belongs to – World War III. It’s not really ancient, but you know, it’s water under the bridge. 

            I tried to scan my surroundings instead of the film. The room looked stuffy – it feels like it, too – but it’s a comfortable kind of stuffy. The curtains were closed as always, making the room dim. Aside from the light of the television and the reading lamp, the room was in semi-darkness. The shapes and structure were impressive but I need to eat. It’s my calling. I gave Sky ten more minutes. Ten more and that’s it.

            After fifteen minutes – fifteen! What happened to the plan? – I was sure I was going to die of boredom.

            “Err, Sky? I thought you said it was already finishing up.” He just patted my knee repeatedly. “Almost there, almost there.” I almost groaned in frustration. I’ll bet he was talking more to the television than me when he said that. Five minutes, I thought. He has no right to starve me. 

            I was feeling pretty good at myself – patience is a virtue, right? Though, the third minute came and went, I grew sleepy. I was seriously considering the handcuffs right now. At least I can eat. My eyes closed again and it was just the perfect position for dozing off. One does not simply sneeze all day and not be exhausted. Slowly my mind entered the unconscious state, my head lolling on the side. Then I suddenly heard, 

            “That was epic!”

 

            I felt myself jolted back to reality, body startled and heart beating frantically. I scowled at him. “Yeah nice work, Sky.” with my hand on my chest to feel my heart, as if to calm it down.

            “Oops. Sorry.”

            I rolled my eyes, again, and stood up. “Fake apology accepted. Come on, we need – ”

            “That wasn’t fake!” he defended, turning the tv set off.

 “We still need to eat. All I had was ice cream.” I started walking briskly to the kitchen, with him behind me. When we were inside, he raised an eyebrow at me quizzically. 

“Do you even know how to cook?” 

That’s the worst insult ever.

“Of course I do!” he only chuckled at my fuming and at my response. He put both hands at the back of my shoulders and steered me to a high chair. “How about you watch the pro first, what do you think?”

“I’m not the one to boast, but I’ve fed myself for the last five years. Not to mention I have Dash.”

“This isn’t about your cooking skills, Ryne. It’s about mine and I honestly owe you one – I forgot to let you eat, your flu – ”

“Speaking of flu,” I replied happily. “I think it’s gone.”

“It is.” Maybe it’s because of Xav.” he said randomly, pulling out pans, plates and a spatula. I turned my chair side to side, feeling like a kid. “Yeah. With a face like that, she could cure cancer.”

He laughed. “You should’ve seen the list of all the guys madly in love with her.” he shook his head in obvious admiration, while turning the stove on and started searching for the ingredients. ”She doesn’t like any one of them, though.”

“She doesn’t? Why?” I asked, perplexed. A person like her must’ve been in more than one relationship, or five. Sky just shrugged, flipping the oil bottle in the air and catching it repeatedly. “Xavia Walsh has someone else in mind.” he turned his back on me then, pouring oil and started sorting the other ingredients for the dish. I stared at the back of his head, mouth open.

“Xavia likes you?” That’s just so - shocking! I mean, if they had babies, they would be like cherubs straight from the gates of heaven. God, have mercy. They’re too perfect for each other.

“She, err, told me about it.” he vaguely answered. Honestly. A blind person could tell that he was lying. I said to him, “Sky, please don’t insult me. I know that you know that I know that you’re lying.” he stopped his spatula, posed in mid-air. 

“You know that what?”

            “You’re lying! That’s the point.” I answered. “She didn’t tell you – Xavia doesn’t seem like that kind of person. She probably –”   

            “Ryne! Will you just… stop?” he finished meekly. Oh my God. I knew it. “What did she do exactly?” I asked, piqued. 

            “Why in the world are you asking?” he complained, obviously wanting to change the topic. “I can’t cook properly with you hounding on my back – ”

            “I’m just curious! Who wouldn’t be? And I don’t have other means of entertainment, so – ”

            “It’s private, okay?” I can sense that talking about it made him feel really uneasy, maybe even nervous, and I felt more and more intrigued. If only there was some way that he could tell me – Oh. Yes. Yes, there is. I thought evilly. This is going to work perfectly.

            “I wonder what Mr. Mafia would say if he saw us right now.” As soon as I said the magic word, he froze. I smiled triumphantly, though he couldn’t see it. Nevertheless, he answered, “His main priority is to keep you safe and you can’t exactly escape now.” That is true, sadly. Before leaving, Xavia tinkered with the door and connected it to a monitored password com on the wall right next to the door. I sighed in mock sadness. But maybe not that mock, but whatever.

            “Yeah, you’re right. I wish I could have a bit more fun, though. I can give him a good feedback and – ”

            He finally turned around to face me, his eyes tortured. “You’re a devil, you are.” I just laughed at my victory and prodded him to spill everything. He continued cooking, the sounds of clinking metals echoed in the small kitchen of the suite. 

            “Well? I’m waiting.”

            He hesitated for a minute more before he tried to answer. “Xav and I were alone then – her friends left to see something, a movie, I think. And, uhh…”

            “That’s it, go on.” I said, encouraging him. I told you one of my best qualities was being nosy, didn’t I?”

            He covered the pan with the lid and faced me, his hands on the countertop. I didn’t have any idea of what he was cooking but it smells delicious. Soon. Sky tried again,

            “She told me some things – ”

“What things?”

He actually groaned. “Please don’t make this harder than it already is, I beg you.” I felt so gifted at that moment. He continued, “She told me things, and before I could respond, she – she – ”  I can see beads of sweat on his forehead from where I’m sitting. Good God, I’ve never seen him like this before.

“She kissed you, didn’t she?”

His face flushed. “I don’t know why the hell you are entertained at my personal expense.” he turned back to the stove. “Show’s over.” 

“You like her, don’t you?”

He whirled at me. “No, I don’t! She’s like a little sister to me. I don’t reciprocate her feelings.” I pursed my lips at that. I knew it wasn’t exactly true. I heard their laughing earlier and nobody can deny that Sky likes his “little sister.” Or maybe it’s just me. 

I felt myself frown. I suddenly felt very alone right then. I stifled the urge to sigh and forced my tone to be upbeat. “What are you cooking?”

“Enchiladas. And I got some Monopoly cookies.”

“Monopoly cookies?” I’m not sure I heard that brand before.

“They’re my recipe. Don’t you want to eat cookies while playing Monopoly?” I smiled slightly. 

            “Sounds fun.”

Chapter 22: Xavia

Chapter 22: Xavia (Wattpad)

At least I understand now right? It doesn’t make any big difference. No, not at all! I’m not scared whatsoever in this situation. It’s bloody perfect!

After that life-changing question and answer a few minutes ago, I’m still sick, lying on the couch. I have an empty cup of cookies and cream ice cream on the table at my right, as well as three magazines, a pack of strepsils, two DVDs, an extra pillow, my medicine and the four books Sky saved from the shootout at the mall. All this was the result of my ordering Sky around until I took pity on him and let him rest. Let me tell you, it’s somewhat entertaining – I’ve never had a nanny as long as I can remember. 

Now, I’m reading the fifth book, glasses a bit down on the bridge of my nose. It’s Art of War. This situation isn’t exactly a war, but I can taste the irony.

Dash was already fed earlier by Sky and is now in the manager’s office. Again, result of Sky’s expertise with women. Dash’s going to stay for a little while; I’d rather not risk my life with his presence for now. And as if the loneliness isn’t completely enough, the radio – which was connected to the speakers – was playing “Bad Day” by David Powell.

I sighed my heart out and turned to Sky. He was on the seat by the closed window, cleaning his gun and scribbling something in a pad of paper every now and then. I snapped the book shut and placed it with the four others. I sneezed terribly and fetched a bottle of water.

This is insanity.

My head still hurts and it’s not like I could talk to someone. Where the hell is Imah when you need her? Her chatting would’ve been nice and comfortable. As if Sky sensed my stare burn through him, he turned to me.

“Do you need something or is it just my face?” I ignored his jibe and told him, “I used to do that, you know.” He looked uncertain and replied, “Uhm, cleaning a gun?”

“Not exactly. I meant multi-tasking.” 

He raised an eyebrow and asked, “And you’re saying this because…?” I sighed and then – sneezed. “Because I’m so damned bored, that’s why! I’m not sure if people can die of boredom – ” he laughed loudly that drowned out the sound of my whining.

“What’s so funny?”

“Nothing, really. If this might interest you though, I’m writing our training schedule for – ”

I groaned loudly. “I thought Mr. Mafia wanted me to have fun?”

“First, he wants you to be safe.” he said it like he was explaining one plus one. 

“I just want to do something. I can’t just lie here.” 

“Unfortunately, you have to. If you don’t, I’ll force you.”

“Yeah. I expected as much. And can’t you open the curtains?”

“Nuh-uh. Not safe.”

“Oh please. Is someone aiming a gun at us right now?”

“The room next to us, yes. I think they have the wrong room, though.” No. He’s joking. “Someone has their gun at our neighbour?” 

“Not really them. Just their window.” He quickly added, “Imah’s really good in her stuff.”

“Imah?”

He shrugged then replied. “She popped in to my comm device earlier,” he said, tapping the said item in his ear, “she just said that and that’s it, really.”

“Why didn’t you let me talk to her?” I asked desperately. “She hanged up pretty quickly. Still upset about that.” he said this while scowling, rubbing the cloth to the side of his gun hard. 

“It wasn’t her fault. Leave it, Sky.” I scolded. Though, as he said it, my thoughts ran wild. It could be anyone. Someone close to her she said. Even though it hurt, I thought of Carsh. He won’t do that. End of story. It was most likely the Terminator. I mean, she hated my guts since the beginning of time. Who could blame me, right? It’s a better alternative to Corky anyway.

I sighed and grabbed the remote to turn off the mocking radio, still halfway through the song. I closed my eyes and prayed I could sleep – just a few minutes of peace, that’s all I need. I quickly got my wish as the song that stuck in my head lulled me slowly to sleep.


            6 hours later, 3pm

I raised my blanket higher up to my chin and rolled to the side. Consciousness started seeping in and my mind wondered how I rolled that much without falling off the couch. And now, I remember the couch not being as comfortable as this. I opened my eyes, feeling strangely relaxed. It’s already late afternoon from what I see. Someone removed my glasses and I reached out for it at the side of my pillow and grabbed my beetle-slash-necklace-slash-watch.

I was putting it back when I checked the time again because I wasn’t paying attention the first time. I stared at the canopy of the bed; apparently Sky transferred me here. Really, he doesn’t have to do – I sneezed. 

I groaned wearily. The fever wasn’t that bad anymore, but my nose wasn’t helping matters at all. I was just planning to have my nose removed when I heard noise on the outside room.

Laughing.

This is crazy. Maybe I had too much tablets, or maybe this isn’t flu. I shook my head then pain shot through my temple. Smart, Ryne. Very smart. I held both of my hands to my head and sat up on the bed, knees drawn to my chest. 

The laughing on the next room commenced again, only this time, I can hear it clearer.

A woman.

I think it’s real. I untangled myself from the sheets, then heard Sky’s laugh. Okay, it’s real. I don’t recognize the woman’s laugh, though I know for sure that it’s not Imah – Imah’s much too loud. I heard Sky exclaim playfully, “Ow!”

After that, I felt strange for some reason. Sky sounded like he was really having fun and the female – she sounds beautiful. Now, don’t ask me how I knew that, there’s just some people who are just born with natural appeal. 

If Sky let someone enter to this room, there’s bound to be a reason why. I gathered up my wits and got off the bed, put on my slippers and walked to the door.

I would be lying if I said that I didn’t plan on going to the living room without them noticing me. I felt like a crazy stalker when I put my left ear to the door, hearing them through the thin wood. I pressed my ear closer to the door to decipher their muffled voices. Then I sneezed.

Loudly.

I was frozen, my hand over my mouth and nose. Stalking sucks! I would never ever confide this to anybody alive if my life depended on it. I can already sense that they knew I was awake and probably creeping up on them. I didn’t hear the noise from the living room. Oh, God. What now?

Before I knew it, the door opened and I tripped to Sky’s chest. He opened the freaking door! Aargh! He steadied me by the shoulders and helped me stand. I sneezed again then I quickly said, looking in his green eyes,

“I wasn’t spying on you. I swear. I was just going out and – ” I sneezed. Again.

“It’s okay, Ryne. Drink lots of water, okay? Your colds are getting – ” I sneezed. “…worse.” he ended his sentence. He put his arm around me while I was feeling woozy and steered me towards the couch. And there, I saw her.

I was damned right earlier. She is beautiful. A brunette with light skin, straight nose, arched eyebrows an hourglass figure and those curls. Natural, I bet. Her expressive blue eyes completed the picture. That instant I took in her appearance I was struck speechless. She’s the dream girl every human being could conjure up in their wildest dreams. Oh, and by the way, my self-esteem just crash landed to zero. 

Sky started, “Ryne, this is Xavia; she’ll help you with the training and Xav, this is Ryne.”

She smiled, showing her perfect set of teeth and dimples. Then she stood up and held out her hand, “Sky told me all about you.” I glared at Sky as she said it in that melodic tone of hers and shook her hand.

Sky chuckled, “Nothing bad, I promise.” Then we sat down, Xavia to my right and him to my other side.

“What did Sky say about me?”

Sky jumped in. “I told you – ”

“Shut up. I wasn’t asking you – ”

He looked at Xavia. “See? I told you she was spontaneous.” She chuckled.

“Spontaneous?”

“I can’t find another word.”

I sneezed in response. Sky grabbed a pitcher, poured in lots of water in a glass and handed it over to me. “I was just telling Xav that you’re still sick and the schedule for out training.”

I looked at her then, all perfection and I felt myself shrink. She told me, “I’m not going to be here every day, you see. I’ll be here just for every Tuesday, at the very least.”

‘If you don’t mind me asking,” I said, why the hell are you so beautiful? No. I want to ask that but I sympathized with myself. “what are you going to teach me?”

“Sky will teach the most of it, unfortunately.” She giggled. “I know you don’t like him much, but I can’t stay here every day.”

I turned to him, eyebrows raised.

He grinned in return. “Just so you know, I’m a strict teacher.” Oh, really. “Wow, Sky. I’m so scared. Absolutely terrified.” Xavia laughed. I looked at her then. Am I that talented in making people laugh? She looked at me strangely and said,

            “I used to go to Anderson High, did you know that?”

            My mouth fell open. Anderson High?! She’s joking! I would’ve noticed her if she and I went to the same school – she would be popular at the first step on the soil of that education enrichment place. 

            “Don’t look so shocked! I’m a year older that you – ”

            “But I would’ve seen you!”

            She smiled a secretive smile. “Let’s just say that I’ve been under a disguise.” Then she winked at me. My brow creased in thought. Why would someone so pretty hide her face and pretend to someone else was way behind my comprehension.

            “I go by the name Angela Evans back then. I don’t have much friends but that way was better.” she explained. The name did sound kind of familiar. Evans. Section D7, I think. She can’t seem to stop smiling at me and it was becoming rather unsettling. Imagine Queen Elizabeth staring at you. Yes, terrifying. 

            Well not, really. But I know you get my drift.

            “Err, why are you staring at me like that?”

            “Carsh said he was into you the first time he met you, you know.”

            “You know Carsh?” Blood hell. Now I don’t know what to say. She laughed again – maybe at my expression.

            “We’re not that close. He said he met you because of Mallory. Two years ago?”

            “That’s right. He was chasing me with a… thing.”

            She nodded. “You don’t have to explain. I know exactly what you’re talking about.” As she said that, I looked a Sky. He was rather silent throughout our conversation, just skimming through my books. He looked at me, now. He raised an eyebrow in question. 

            I told him, “Is that your real face, or is that kind of edited?”

            “Edited?” he sputtered disbelievingly. Who could blame me? I was just wondering. They seem kind of into under covers and he’s actually much too handsome to exist. Xavia laughed loudly at Sky’s face – which is something rather worth seeing.

            “Look, I was just wondering – ”

            “Ryne, this is me.” he paused, regaining his composure in spite of his friend still laughing in the background. “It’s not my fault people find it too hard to believe.”

            “Yeah, yeah. You’re really glorious and all that.”

            Xavia chuckled. “He always has this ego. It’s completely normal.” I leaned my head on the back of the couch. “Yeah, I’ve noticed. It’s a wonder I survived.” He looked at me. “You’re exaggerating.”

            “Actually, I’m not. Imah saved my life.” I said, obviously clear in my tone was the fact that I miss her. Xavia’s eyes seemed to be reminiscing. “I haven’t seen her for weeks.”

            I nodded. “I know the feeling.” Sky rounded on me. “You just met her yesterday.”

            “It feels like damned decades. And I’m not actually used to living in isolation from the rest of the world.” Except for clingy receptionists, that is. Xavia blinked and asked, 

            “Imah was here yesterday?” she raised a quizzical brow at Sky. He seemed to hesitate and said uncertainly, “I’ll fill you in later. We – ”

            I interrupted. “If you guys wants some privacy, you only need to ask.” I started standing up, but they held me back simultaneously. Xavia smiled and said, “We’ll move out, okay? We’ll be back in a second.” They stood up and got out of the room. As they moved outside the doorway, I saw that the door was open a sliver. I instantly stood up, tiptoeing towards it. But then – but just then – the handsome devil glanced at me from outside, then put both hands on his hips and raised an eyebrow like the interrogator he is.

            So much for sneaking out.

            I went back to the couch, sulking. Though I can’t deny meeting Xavia was a relief – at least I have another human being I could interact with. I started remembering home, the forever familiar to the bedroom, to the dining. Dash’s doghouse and afternoon walks with Carsh. I miss those blue eyes of his so much. Now I know what Sky meant at the Marquette when we sat at the bench – that it depends on Carsh himself if he wanted to see me still.

            It made absolute sense. Why would he want to be involved with me again? A former Mafia leader wants me for same unknown reason, for God’s sake. That should be enough to drive anyone away. I released a small sigh and my eyes became sober as I sunk in to the reality of the predicament I am in.

            This sucks. Unbearably. Big time. If we ever meet again I’ll just let things sort out by themselves.

Chapter 13: Disguise out of the blue

Chapter 13: Disguise out of the blue (Wattpad)

I did all the nagging, pleading and annoying things available on Earth, but the both of them won’t tell me anything besides “trust me.” I’m getting sick of those two words. The three of us were eating Cheerio’s, watching a movie titled, “Christmas Ghosts” on the widescreen television – yeah, I know. Corny title. On my right, Imah suddenly smacked her palm to her forehead, “How could I forget?! Oh my God.”

Me and Sky were both startled. “What?” he asked. Imah was hesitant. 

“When I was digging stuff through my PC back, uhm, back you know where,” she said, glancing in my direction. They won’t even give me that small irrelevant detail! “I’m really sorry to tell you this right now; the timing is so rotten. But I found something… bad. Sky,” she said, turning to him. “Someone’s giving them information on the inside. Someone close to her.” 

No, no. That is not true.

Sky looked livid. “You should have told me sooner!”

“I’m sorry! It wasn’t my fault! All of us were busy right after you blew your cover and went shooting at the mall! And – and – ” she looked at loss for words as she pleaded. Dash whimpered on the corner and used his paw to turn off the television, trotting back to the bedroom. I sat, paralyzed.

Sky’s still angry. Very angry. He looked really scary and different.

“You could have killed Ryne!”

“I’m sorry! I – ”

Then I intervened. Imah looked close to tears.

“Calm down, Sky.” I touched his shoulder. “It wasn’t her fault.” He turned away from Imah and paced in front of us. Then he stopped in front of her. “Who?”

“I don’t know.” she said, frustrated. It was obvious that she doesn’t like not knowing things. “All possible leads I traced ended up as a fraud.”

He continued pacing then something beeped. It came from Imah’s handbag. She sighed.

“I have to go.” She turned to Sky. “You know how to contact me.” He nodded then she came over and hugged me. “I’ll see you around, Ryne.” After that, she went out. 

Sky kicked a chair.

“They could’ve killed you!” he raged.

“Calm down, okay?! At least we can be more careful now – ”

“Careful?! Do you have any idea what this means?!”

“Don’t talk to me like that! Of course, I know – ”

“It could be your boyfriend!” he roared.

I fell silent, dumbstruck. No. Carsh won’t do that. Sky gulped in several breaths, trying to calm down.

That’s stupid. I told myself. It’s impossible. Carsh loves me.

Sky turned to me. “I’m sorry, Ryne. I didn’t mean to shout at you like that.” I barely heard him. I was too wrapped up in my thoughts. Carsh? That’s insane. No one in their right mind would believe that – 

Sky shook me. “Ryne? Ryne, are you okay? Damn, I knew I shouldn’t have lashed out on you. I am so sorry.” He sounded ashamed of himself.

“I’m okay.” I whispered.

“No, you’re not.” He said with his eyes full of concern. I looked at him then. He was biting down hard on his lower lip. “I’ll make it up to you. I promise. I really didn’t mean to say that.” He hesitated for a second and hugged me awkwardly. I put my face on the crook of his neck and didn’t pull away. It was several seconds more before I pulled away. I smiled a little.

“That’s about the most awkward hug in my life.” he laughed lightly at that.

I looked at his eyes. They’re like real emeralds, I thought. So beautiful. It seemed, at that instant, that he was thinking exactly the same thing, then he looked down. He cleared his throat. 

“Feel better now?” he asked.

“Yes. Thank you.” I didn’t know what came over me. Sky? Beautiful? The world has corrupted my brain. “I know what to do,” he said, sudden inspiration lighting up his eyes.

“Shopping.”

A smile started forming on my lips.

There was a catch. I had to wear a dress. Dress. I never ever wear those things.

“You have to. We need to use disguises so they won’t find us. And they know a lot of things about you – including your dislike of dresses, apparently.” I knew who “they” were without asking. Sky looked sternly at me. “So which is it? Shopping safe and sound, or shopping while running away from people who wants us both dead – ”

“Okay! I’m wearing the bloody thing alright?”

So now I found myself in the huge bathroom of the suite, looking at myself at the huge mirror while wearing a yellow sundress.

It’s actually not that bad, I thought. Yellow makes me look good; it’s nice with my skin colour. And the natural curls at the tip of my hair add to the effect. I can’t believe it. I never thought it would feel good to wear dresses. And my bangs don’t look horrible at all. I was feeling pretty good about myself. I wore the flat sandals Sky bought me earlier, saying that “whit looks good on me.”

They’re still sandals, white or not. I actually feel cheerful. Oh God.

“Ryne?” Sky knocked on the bathroom door. “Are you alive?”

“No, I’m flushing myself down the toilet.” I replied sarcastically. I heard him laughing and I called out, “I’m coming.” Then I opened the door.

Sky looks… amazing.

I think even “amazing” is an understatement. He’s wearing whit shoes like he chose the colour so it would match my sandals. Sneaky. He’s wearing jeans and red checkered polo shirt which has sleeves that reached his elbows. His glasses completed the indescribable picture. He smiled. “I knew you find me attractive.” he chuckled.

I rolled my eyes at him. “You choose nice clothes, that’s all.” I lied, of course. He had natural good looks. He looked at me then. “Should I lie like you and say that you have a pretty dress, or tell the truth that you make the dress pretty?” My face flushed crimson.

           “He laughed at me. “Come on sis. We have a lot to buy.” he grabbed my hand and led the way out of the suite. I whistled to call Dash. Once all three of us were out of the room, Sky locked the door.