Chapter 29: Picture perfect

Chapter 29: Picture perfect (Wattpad)

            

            Receiving those gifts and letters made me feel less lonely. Less isolated. It’s a priceless feeling to know that you have a handful of people you can rely on. We tried out the iPad and played TapTap for more than 30 minutes straight, keeping the level on extreme. It’s an old game, I know. But to hell with it. 

This last game is the tie-breaker; we each have five points but that just won’t do. It’s impossible to have a tie; that’s going to haunt me for the rest of my life. Sky’s gaining on me fast, and I panicked as the House Music drifted to a close. I stared at my side of the iPad and…

Winner.

I laughed in ultimate victory, seeing his aghast face as he stared at the gadget. “Aww, Sky. How tragic that must be for you.” I mocked, trying not to laugh. He scowled playfully at me and out of nowhere, splashed water from a flower bowl. 

“Hey!” 

“Ugh. Whatever, Ryne.” He said leaning his head to the back of the couch. I shrugged. “In your dictionary, that usually means that I’ve outwitted you so…”

He chuckled. “Outwitted? Ryne, you’re so literary. You can use more modern words, you know. It’s a free country.” I shot him a dark look. “I know that. I just like playing with words, I really don’t see any problem – ”  he interrupted me. “I didn’t say anything about you having a problem – ”

“You were implying it. Why the hell are we talking about his again?”

“We aren’t talking – we’re arguing.” He shrugged, sweeping his hand through his messy hair. I almost gulped. He look sexy when he does that - but never in this lifetime would I say that to his face. He said, “There’s a couple more gifts I have for you.” Two more? That’s rather odd. I gave him a puzzled look. “I haven’t exactly met someone besides Imah and Xav – ”

“Are you kidding me?” he exclaimed. 

What is he talking about? I have no – oh. The answer came to me with the force of a hurricane. I looked at his shocked green eyes and, “Oops. I’m sorry, Sky.” He still looked at me dispiritedly. Oh, God. Why do I have to be born so stupid? “I am! Seriously. It’s just that we didn’t really meet under pleasant circumstances – ”

“Yeah, it’s fine.” He smiled slightly. “I’m a bit of an over-reactive specie – ”

“Seems to be.” 

He ignored me, again and fired another comment. “And the other one was kind of… impossible for me to get, but by some miracle,” he said, getting a little cube-shaped box wrapped in dark blue and handing it to me. “I managed to convince him.” He smiled excitedly.

“Him?” I think I know who he was talking about, but the idea seemed preposterous. Sky smiled wider. “Mr. Mafia.”

Yes, it was preposterous.

“Okay. What’s the punch line?”

He laughed. “I know it’s hard to believe, but trust me.” A former Mafia chief just gave me a birthday present. This is the most bizarre in the history of bizarre. “Why the bloody hell would he give me a gift?” He was ordering people to kidnap me, hello? Sky responded, “I told you he has his reasons.” together with a shrug. I turned the little thing over and over with my hands, fiddling with the silk ribbon. Should I open it? 

“Err, Sky? Is this safe?”

He looked at the said object and replied, “It doesn’t have bugs – the electronic type. And that’s all I really need to know to guarantee your safety.” I bit my lip. “Okay. I’m going to open this little thing.” I did, and found the gift inside.

A silver bangle.

I pulled it out and stared. Sky looked at it and his eyes widened in recognition. I turned to him immediately. “What? What is it?” He shook his head and reached under the low table. “I just realized why he told me to have a screwdriver at the ready.” he pulled out a, yes, screwdriver. I raised my eyebrows disbelievingly. “Is that really necessary? I mean, isn’t it better to just let it fit on my arm?” he pursed his lips in consideration. “He insisted though.” I looked at the bangle on my hand, and on the screwdriver on Sky’s. It couldn’t hurt to try, right? It’s not like the thing is a bomb or something. I nudged him with my unhurt shoulder – the left one – and said, “Okay, then. Not that hard to agree with a killer.” 

He unclasped the bangle and fitted it on my arm, just several centimetres down my shoulder, and used the tool to tighten and lock it. He looked at it approvingly.

“It looks great on you.”

I laughed. I was wearing his huge clothes but a compliment’s a compliment. “Thanks.” I chuckled again as he said, “The last gift’s from me. Actually, there’s two of them.” he admitted. Wow.

“Two?” I repeated.

“Uh, yeah. This one’s just to cheer you up – I hope it doesn’t upset you more, tough. My plan might backfire.” he said this as he gave me an envelope. This is really interesting. I pulled out what’s inside, expecting a letter, but pulled out a photo.

A photo of Carsh.

I stared at it, dumbstruck. Oh, God. I tilted my head and looked at him. 

“Bloody hell, Sky.”

He smiled. “I told you I’d make it up to you.” A smile of my own started forming on my face. I turned back to the photo. It was medium-sized with an unbelievable quality. Carsh was wearing a blue V-neck which brings out the blue of his eyes. This photo was taken from a camping trip – there were trees and the view behind him was spectacular but I don’t care at the moment. The sunlight was glinting off his blonde hair, making him look more angelic. And he was smiling. 

The photo made me feel very happy and loved, but excruciatingly sad. I couldn’t speak for a moment. Sky looked concerned and said, “Don’t you like it?” anxiously. I laughed a little. “It’s perfect.” Then I said sincerely, “Thank you, Sky.” He winked at me. “Anytime. And also you, err, going to have to thank Imah, too – she dug the picture up.” I gave him a brilliant smile.

“You’re the best.”

He laughed out loud. “The second one is really from me this time.” then he pulled out a small rectangular box wrapped with purple cloth and silver-ish ribbon. I took it from him. “I wonder what this is.” He bit his lip after laughing. “I heard that you like those things so I got you one.” Heard what? He’s such a cryptic git.

“Heard? How exactly?”

He evaded my question, obviously. “I have my means.” I faced the package again and started opening it, but Sky grabbed it away from my fingers.

“What – ”

“Wait, wait! Just wait!” he said, placing the gift behind his back, hand stopping me. I looked at him. Seriously, I think he ate something. He stared at me, face pleading and anxious. And most of all, unsure. “Let me open it for you.”

I stared at him this time. “Doesn’t that suck? You just wrapped the bloody thing and now – ”

“Please. So I can take it back if you don’t like it – ”

“Am I that scary?!” That’s just really offending. “No! Just – just let me open it.” He raised an eyebrow, hands poised to open the box. I rolled my eyes and just nodded yes. He began tearing off the purple cloth and took off the lid. He held it up. 

It’s a simple thing, really. But very special. The silver chain of the anklet had a dangling letter R on the middle. For full, three seconds, I stared at it, and he was staring at me, breath held, waiting for my reaction. I turned my gaze to him.

“It’s really - ”

“Awful? Grand? Perfect? What?”

I laughed hard. He looks like he’s facing the gallows and writing his own epitaph. He looked crestfallen. “Is it that bad?” I laughed again. “I didn’t even say anything yet! Relax.”

“So? Do you like it?” he asked still unrelenting. 

“Of course I do! Who the hell wouldn’t?” his expression looks like a kid’s when locked inside Disneyland. 

“Really?”

I gritted my teeth. “I’m a human being who appreciates gifts, Sky. I – ”

I didn’t finish the rest of the sentence as he hugged me tightly. He then pulled back after a second, a huge grin plastered to his face. “You’re awesome. You are.”

“Two days ago, you said I’m a devil.” He grinned still. “In a way, you kind of are.” Before I could respond, he piped up; “I’ll put this on you, if you like.” he shook the anklet. His bipolar mode is on the run. “Thanks, but no. I can manage – ” The next thing I saw was him kneeling down in front of me, pulling my feel towards him. 

“Sky. I’m really exhausted to trash talk with you right now – ”

“Then don’t.” he said, grinning up to me. He squatted on the hard floor and put my foot on his leg. “Did you know that it took me forever to find your initial?” he chatted as he put the chain around my ankle and clasped the lock. It really does look nice. Very single yet elegant - exactly what I would buy if given the time and money. It’s chain which is snaking the contours of my ankle was sparkling on the light of the candles. The initial, now I noticed, is completely a flat silver, but there was a tiny beautiful gem on the top-edge of the letter. And hey, guess what the gem is?

Emerald.

I looked at Sky, eyes wide and mouth slightly open. He didn’t notice me though – he was adjusting the accessory for God knows how long. He continued prattling, “If your name started with an A, that would be easier. You could be Astrid, or maybe Ariel – ”

“Seriously?”

“What?” he said, looking up again. “Ariel’s nice – ”

“No, no. I meant the emerald.” I explained. He bloody well knows that his eyes are, well, capturing. He grinned wider. “So if you’re somewhere off the Mafia castle, you’ll still remember me.” Then his smile turned kind of sad. “Because I figured that you’ll probably hate me right then.” What? That’s stupid. 

“Hate you? Why the - ”

He shook his head, placing his hand on my ankle. The flowers and the candles glinting off and reflecting on his glasses are making a glow around the place. “You don’t hate me now. But I think you will. If you find out why he wants you.” Now even his eyes became sad.

My eyebrows crinkled in concern and thought. “That’s really stupid.” his hand felt warm and nice on my anklet but his expression was anything but warm. He said, “Just don’t take off that anklet and don’t hate me okay? I rather had a fun time with you.” If he had admitted that in another time, I would’ve laughed and said something funny. But the look on his face made it impossible. This is crazy.

 

The guy is damned serious.

            I smiled at him sincere and reassuring. “I won’t.” then I winked at him. I would never do that, but it was worth to see him smile.

Chapter 28: 15th of October

Chapter 28: 15th of October (Wattpad)

            

           Part I:     

    

            It was nearing night. The television was turned on, but we weren’t really watching. Dash was staring at it, so we just left it on, figuring it couldn’t hurt. Sky was figuring out how to repair the password device for the door while seating on the sofa. What was I doing? I was just leaning my back on his shoulder, shuffling through the manual guide for assembling the device. Helping him. Lord God. 

“I said the red one, what are you – ”

“There are too many wires! How am I supposed to know what I’m holding?”

“Well, then. Let’s do it again.”

“We’ve been trying for eternity – ”

“You’re impossible. I even help you build my own prison – ”

He grunted, nudging my back with his shoulder. “Let’s take a break.”

“Give up, you mean.”

He scowled at me. “Fine. I give up. Happy?”

I laughed. “Sort of.” he just rolled his eyes and stood up. “I’m having a sandwich. You coming?” I tossed the manual to the low table and used the arm of the sofa for support. I tried to stand upright on my own; baggy clothes and all. I shot a killer look at Sky. “Aren’t you going to help me?” He pursed his lips to keep from chuckling. The git. “Take three steps by yourself and I’ll help you.” My eyes narrowed. I never back down from a challenge. I’ll show him.

I tentatively took a small step forward, hand on my head as though it would lessen the dizziness and almost falling. I saw him put his arms forward, ready for catching me. “Uhm, Ryne, I think I’ve changed my mind about this – ”

“Shut up.” I tried another small step and stubbed my toe, falling forward. He caught my arms and steadied me. “For someone smart, that was rather stupid.” Was that a compliment? Huh. Sky suddenly turned his back to me. “Climb on my back.”

Oh, okay. He’s officially insane.

“Climb what?” I asked, surprised.

“On my back. It’s easier that way. And you do want to eat, right? Come on.” he urged.

“What if you fall?” I asked and he laughed loudly, filling the room with light. “That was funny.” he said.

“Oh, right. I forgot that you were perfect. My bad.” he chuckled as I put my arms around his neck from behind, then he lowered to a semi-crouched position and hooked his arms behind my knees and straightened up. My head is now next to his and I can feel his soft hair on my cheek. As well as his broad back pressed to my torso – it feels natural and nice. He turned his face to me, smiling.

“We can just stay like this forever, if you like.”

I laughed, placing my chin on his shoulder. “Let’s go, horsey.”

The trip to the kitchen was rather uneventful, if you don’t count Sky bumping his head on the doorframe. As we sat down and ate our peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, there was still an angry welt on his forehead and I can’t help ogling at it.

“I thought you were perfect. My, oh my.” He tore a piece of bread and threw it at me. “Hey!” he raised an eyebrow innocently. “Did you say something?” I sighed. “You’re annoying.”

He grinned. “Thanks.” he looked outside and turned back to me again. “Do you know what day it is? We should celebrate!” I was surprised because over the past few days, I lost track of time. But I was more surprised when I recall the exact date today.

“Err, it’s the 14^th of October.” 

“Exactly!” he replied, all smiles.

“Our birthday’s on the 15^th. Of next month, may I add.” This guy never seems to run out of energy and ideas. “But, tomorrow is the 15^th! The day of our birthdate!” I laughed in spite of myself. He’s such a child.

‘You sound like you’re four.”

“I’m serious. Aren’t you glad that you met me?” Now that, is a hard question. “Uhmm. That question is…” Sky pulled off his puppy dog eyes and oh my God. It’s heart-breaking. His eyebrows were all crunched together and his forehead creased. And not to mention the way his chin was trembling slightly and his eyes screams, I’m cute. You will give me free stuff.

 

Nobody can say ‘no’ to that face. 

This damned trick is effective and he knows it. 

I groaned aloud. “What do you want to do?” He laughed triumphantly. “It’s a surprise.” he said excitedly, smiling. “This is how I’ll make it up to you.” If this is how he reacts to me being injured, I should get an accident more often. Or just get shot. Non-lethal, of course. I chuckled. “Just make sure it’s not too… grand.”

            He winked at me, care-free and confident as always. “Trust me, Ryne. I have a good feeling that you’ll like this one.”


           Part II:

As all things in life, this supposed  “surprise” has a catch – I have to stay in the bedroom until Sky says otherwise. I mean, he lost his mind! This is against human rights, this definitely is. 

“How the hell am I supposed to eat?” I screamed, as he dragged me to the bedroom.

“Just call out to me. I’ll give you what you want, but not too much, okay?” he replied calmly. 

“I thought I told you that I don’t want it en grandé?”

“It won’t be.” he said, putting me down the bed. “I won’t lock you in, because I have a heart – ”

“A black one, I think – ”

“But Zombie will guard the door for me – ”

“Dash won’t follow you!” I said, outraged. “He’s mine!” He smiled slightly and raised an eyebrow. He turned to the direction on the open doorway and whistled.

Dash came trotting to him instantly.

I stared at my dog, mouth open. “Dash?” He turned his furry head to me, and his eyes seemed to be laughing. 

“Damn this shi – ” Sky covered my mouth. “Nuh – uh. No bad words. Your dog just likes good people, that’s all.” I scoffed and rolled my eyes. Good people. Sky ignored me and continued saying, “So stay here, okay? I won’t ever forgive you if you peek.” Then he stalked off the room.

Great. This is just dandy.

I can’t resist calling out to him, through the closed door, “I thought you had a heart!” 

“I do, Ryne!” he yelled back, his voice muffled. Dash seemed to enjoy it and barked himself, looking at me. I glared at him playfully, as though saying, traitor. Then he suddenly bounded up to me, licking my hand. I hugged him tightly, curling his fur through my fingers. “I still love you, buddy.” I said, laughing. “Even if you took a liking to someone else!” I shouted, making sure he can hear me. I expected him to shout back, but I heard him chuckle. I rolled my eyes again and slowly lay down the bed, careful not to trigger my dizziness again and tried to fight off the epic boredom. 

An hour later

“Let me out!”

“Just a few more minutes, I promise. Everything seems to be just perfect – ”

“So why am I still here?” I yelled back irritably. It’s been an hour. Hour. On the course of that hour, I heard nothing strange from the living room, if you don’t count the constant opening and closing of the door and the clinking of the plates – I assume they’re plates. I mean, what else could it be? - and other metal. I admit, I am curious and a bit excited but I don’t deserve this! Being locked up in a bedroom – I’m not a Disney princess for God’s sake. I heard the door of the bedroom opening and closing just as fast and I looked up, eyes landing on Sky. 

“Err, why do you look so excited?”

He smiled hugely. “You’ll love this. I don’t know how I did it but – ”

“Let’s just see it, what do you think?” I said, almost laughing. I stood up and he automatically helped me, holding my arms to keep myself steady; somehow, my fall at the other damned hotel had been pretty bad. “You have to put on a blindfold first.” he added, pulling out the said item. What the – who does he think he is?! I glared at him.

“I am not going – ”

His face turned to extreme pleading in a mini-second. “Please, Ryne. I worked so hard for this, I want it to be perfect – ”

“It’s the same when I don’t put that thing on – ”

“It’s not!” he said, “Please, Ryne. Please. Just this one time – ”

“Fine! Let’s just get this over with.” he smiled then, and gently put the blindfold over my eyes after removing my glasses. I can’t see a bloody thing. 

“Why did I agree to this again?” he just laughed heartily and tightened his grip on my arms and I felt him step backward. “Just follow my voice.” I gripped his arms and stepped forward. He said again, “That’s good. Now, just walk forward normally.”

“Normally?”

“Yes, normally.” I can sense him smiling and he continued speaking, “We’re almost to the door – ”

“Are you smiling?” I asked, straightforward. He stifled a laughs. “Err, sort of. Now move forward.” I did as he asked and walked as I would under different circumstances but I felt something wet touch my ankle.

“Oh my God, what was that – ”

“Down, boy. Down.” I heard him say. I heard Dash barking and felt my heartbeat slow down. Sky chuckled and I sensed him face me again. “Now, where were we?” 

“The, uhhm, normal walk.” I responded, wanting nothing more than to remove this thing hindering me.

“Okay, step forward now.” he urged, taking a step back himself. We continued this thing for several more seconds when I felt the air around me shift – the room suddenly felt wider, more open. And it feels – warm. Like there are light bulbs around me. Well, not light bulbs, more like small fires, if that makes sense. Sky seems to be shaking with excitement. He said, “Feel anything?”

I hesitated then replied, “It’s… warm.” he seemed to be bursting now as he moved his hands to mine as grasped them. 

“Promise me you won’t have a heart attack when we open your eyes, okay?” Mother of God. Now I feel definitely excited. “Is, uhm, is it that… awful?” He laughed again. “See for yourself.” he said, removing his hands and reaching behind to remove the blindfold. He automatically gave me my glasses and stepped behind me, giving me a complete view of the living room. I opened my eyes and blinked several times, because the room seemed to be murky. 

Whoa.

The room is absolutely unrecognizable and stunning. There were white bowls full of water and red roses everywhere. Even the floor. The curtains were still closed but the dull grey colour had been replaced with whit, matching the bowls. And the small fires! They’re candles! Placed everywhere, matching the colours white and red. I breathed in and smelled lavender. How the hell can you get that smell from those colours? Isn’t it supposed to be purple-ish? My mouth was open and that was even before I found the gifts on the couch. Of different wrappers and sizes and some have letters. It’s perfect. The lighting of the room was dim, but it’s still breathtakingly beautiful – it just adds to the effect of the designs. I slowly turned to Sky. He said, smiling.

“Advance happy birthday.”

Those words melted my heart – as much as I hate to admit it -  and I said the only thing that came to my mind, “You did this in an hour?” But he ignored me and his eyes became anxious as he watched out for my reaction.  

“Do you like it? I even put bowls of flowers on the floor and I know you like roses, but I don’t know if you – ”

“It’s perfect!” I said delightfully. His eyes were the size of saucers. “Really?” 
I laughed. “How the hell did you do this?” He shook his head vigorously and said fast, “I don’t know!” half-laughing, then he caught my hand, leading the way through the flowers and towards the couch. “I phoned everyone – well, not everyone – ”

My jaw dropped. “What happened to being safe – ”

He was half-laughing still as he answered, “I used a secure line.” then he grabbed one package and handed it over to me. “That’s from Xavia.”

“Xavia?”

He rolled his eyes. “Yes, Xavia. My grandmother.” He laughed as I hit his chest with the gift. I started opening it as he let me sit on the couch and he followed suit.

It’s a book.

The title is D.I.Y. – Detonate It Yourself book. Oh my God. Everything here is all about self-protection, how to use a gun, detonating bombs – everything useful. Wow.

I turned to Sky, mouth open. He laughed and said, “Xav is awesome.” then he got a sheet of envelope from his pocket. “She also made you a letter. Obviously.” I quickly got it from him and opened it, biting my lower lip. It said,

Ryne,

Advance happy birthday to the both of you! Imah told me, you see. Sky just phoned me several minutes ago, demanding a gift for you. Tell him to mind his manners, okay? I believe in you. I wish you a really happy birthday in spite of the certain circumstances – I think Sky is planning something, so I’m keeping my hopes up. I wish you won’t hate us for what we’re doing, Ryne; it’s just our job. I promise it will go smoothly.

Your friend,

Xavia

P.S. – I hope you like my gift. And please get better soon.

This is just too overwhelming. I folded back the letter and put it on its envelope. I never thought in my life that I would get kidnapped by such people. Hate her? On the contrary! They’ve done nothing but protect me from people I hate. Sky asked impatiently, “What does it say?” I chuckled, “She told me to tell you about your manners.” He blinked. “Manners?” 

“You know, that word which –  ” he grabbed my wrist. “That’s my line.” I laughed in his face. “Actually,” I continued, still laughing. “She told me that you demanded for a gift.”

“His face turned to one of guilt. Very subtle. “I didn’t demand, I just – ”  I cut min off, “Yes, I know you’re guilty.” 

“I demanded a gift for you, okay?”

 Do. Not. Blush.

“So which one next?” I asked and he attempted a pitiful chance at a glare. Then he shook his head and gave me another package – a flat rectangular one. I held the gift but didn’t open it yet. I raised one eyebrow at him, “What was the shaking for?”

“Shaking?”

I pursed my lips. “You shook your head – I saw that – ”

“I was just wondering how someone so small can be so hugely irritating – ”  he never got to finish that sentence as I reached out to a nearby bowl and threw a handful of flowers at him. He said sarcastically,

“You know what? It rather suites me; the roses and all – ”

“Oh yeah. Mr. Perfect.” I looked at the package from my hands. “And this is from… ?” 

“From Imah.”

Imah. I quickly tore off the wrapper and got out my gift. An iPad. Seriously? I laughed aloud. “Yes, it’s definitely from her.” Sky was smiling as he handed me the attached letter – which was quite thick. I smiled hugely; even in writing, she never loses her chatter. It read, 

Dearest Ryne,

Advance happy, happy birthday! I miss you so much! Tell Sky not to shout on the phone the next time he’s planning something – it’s rather annoying. But I still love you both! He just demands a gift like it’s the end of the world, but I got used to it eventually. When he told me, I was cramming for something to get you – I know you don’t like technology much, but you have to start! It’s the new generation and era! You have to blend in! I really, really hope you like it. It’s completely safe and secure – I stripped it down myself in case of bugs and found nothing. I already downloaded some games that you and Sky can play with in case you get bored. And please, do recover quickly. Xav told me about what happened and I’m so, so sorry for that. I just knew that they slipped past us when someone on guard told me. I really feel bad and guilty and especially when Sky confronted me about it. I didn’t mean to. I hope you forgive me. Many more birthdays to come and I wish you a happy day, even though you’re sort of being held against your will. I hope we made you happy somehow. Oh, by the way, wear dresses a bit more often, okay? Sky likes it. But you’re still pretty, whatever you wear anyway. I still haven’t forgotten about what I said between you and Sky. I meant it! I hope you remember it, Ryne.

Affectionately,

Imah

Yes, I’ve been right. Her letter had been bombarded with a lot of information, ranging from topic to topic – but that’s just her. When I read it, I can’t seem to stop grinning. Then I read the last part. I had honestly forgotten about it, but then she had to mention it. Really. She’s fighting a losing game. I turned to my companion and saw him perusing my already turned-on iPad. Don’ take the ‘turned-on’ thing the wrong way. 

“What kind of games are in there?”

He laughed lightly. “Fun ones. Of course, being Imah as the sender, you can’t really expect less.” he turned to me then. “What did she say in her letter?” A good lot of things. “That you shouldn’t shout on the phone when you’re talking to her –  ”

“I didn’t really shout at her!” he protested, face crestfallen. “What is wrong with them? I just asked a gift for you –  ”

“Out of the blue, may I add.” his shoulders slumped at what I said. I giggled. “Sorry.” he raised an eyebrow skeptically. “I know you don’t mean that apology, but it’s accepted, nonetheless.”

I sighed. “Don’t you know that sometimes it’s rather hard to keep up and argue with you?” he smiled proudly. “Nobody can keep up with me.” I pursed my lips. “Except me, of course.” 

He smiled at me. “Yeah. Except you.”

Gah. He’s doing it again. I looked at Imah’s gift over his shoulder and said before he can say anything else, “I’ll check the games out later. We can play if you like and – ”  I just noticed something weird and berated myself for not finding it sooner.

“Where’s Dash?” I asked, twisting around the couch. “He’s here, Ryne. Behind us.” I craned my neck and indeed saw him. Sleeping. Of course. He, Sky, smiled at me. 

            “Told you he’s part zombie.”

Chapter 26: Them again

Chapter 26: Them again (Wattpad)

Sky handed me a backpack. Though the only things I put in it are my books, two or three set of clothes – the others are with him – a jar of Monopoly cookies and the snow globe. The beetle necklace I got from the Marquette hung on my neck and I tried to ignore Sky’s lingering stare as I put it on. The colour silver rather complemented the lavender of the dress. 

In no time, we’re all packed and ready, including Dash. I stashed his dog food inside my bag and sat down on the couch as Sky disassembled the device on the door. He kept cursing impatiently and jumping like he’s getting electrocuted. Which he probably is. While he’s in front of me suffering, I got out my jar of Monopoly cookies – really, that’s rubbing on me quite a bit – and ate leisurely, Dash at my feet. As I ate my third cookie, I can’t help but say to him, “Dou you want me to tally how many more jumps you’d make?”

“Shush, Ryne. I’m doing it right. How the devil Xavia did this – ”

“Well, can’t you call her?”

He shook his head no. “Her line’s being monitored. She’ll call me when he has a new phone.”

Even Xavia’s being watched? I felt guilty for some reason. This situation is hopeless. “So at the meantime, you have to figure that out by yourself?”

He was working on it as he responded, “I’m almost there. I just have to – ” The device beeped three times and Sky pried it away from the wall. “See?” 

“Yeah, I do.”

He smiled and said, “I’ll just fix this mess, and we’ll be away god speed.”

So here we are, three minutes later making our way through the halls of the hotel. Sky insisted on bringing my backpack though, so I held on to Dash, not feeling entirely useless. When we entered the vast lobby with its beautiful fountain and gorgeous design, I felt tense and most of all exposed. I became wary and held Sky’s upper arm, stopping him. This damned feeling was what started it all – that Monday morning where Sky turned out of the blue. He turned to me.

“What’s wrong?”

I switched my gaze from face to face all of them unfamiliar. “I just feel… unsafe. Exposed. It’s nothing.” But my grip tightened. Something’s going to happen, damn it. I hate this feeling. Sky looked at me; eyebrows raised and face overflowing with concern. My hand that was holding Dash’s leash was sweating and cold. “Ryne, it’s going to be fine. Let’s go to the front desk and get out of here as soon as possible.”

-

As Ryne held on to him, he remembered a certain conversation that stuck with him for more than an hour. He shook his head as he seemed to go back in time himself.

“What’s she like?” Sky asked, facing the person who especially chose him to this assignment. The person chuckled mirthfully. “Oh, she’s very much like me. And her intuition – never ever ignore it. She may not look like much, but I tell you, La Brea, there is more to her than meets the eye. If she says something is wrong, something is fucking wrong.” The man looked Sky in the eye. 

“Now don’t you go falling in love with her – I’ll have your head the instant you do.”

He came back to the present, walking briskly to the receptionist’s desk. He stole a glance at Ryne, praying that just this one time that the former Mafia leader’s words about her intuition won’t become a reality. 

-

As we walked and stopped in front of the receptionist, I had no idea that it would be the last time we saw her alive. She finished with one customer and turned to us, looking tired. Nevertheless, she out on a smile. “Mr. and Ms. La Brea, are you checking out?”

I just turned around, knowing Sky will handle the situation. “Yes, we are, where do I sign?” their voices faded into the background as a tall man with a leather jacket walked behind us. He was wearing sunglasses and the lenses prevented me from looking directly into his eyes as he glanced at my direction. My face must’ve turned pale with fear but he looked away. That just intensified my feeling a few more degrees higher. I distinctly heard the receptionist say,

“Mr. La Brea? Excuse me sir, can you hear me?”

I turned to him. He was facing somewhere else – at someone else. A woman. A woman with a leather jacket. She faced Sky then, even though they’re three yards apart. Her grey eyes seemed to be smiling as she put her hand inside her pocket. 

Sky grabbed my arm then wheeled around. “Sir? Excuse me, are you all right?”

Leather. Everywhere. Scattered around, blending in with the unsuspecting civilians. 

“Get the fuck down, Ryne, before – ”

It happened so fast that I didn’t have time to catch my breath. One second I was staring in to Sky’s darkened, green eyes and the next, pain shot through my shoulder and I fell on the tiled floor, bumping my head so hard. Everything was total disarray. Everything. People were running and screaming and some were stepping on me. Dash was barking so loud and I vaguely heard Sky yelling, “Go boy! Run!” I can’t hear anything properly, it’s like the people were on a malfunctioning microphone and my vision was blurring. I felt something drip from my shoulder to the ground.

Blood, I’m sure.

I felt someone carry me and try to get up. Another gunshot. I heard the terrified shriek of the receptionist and I knew she was dead.

“Fuck.” 

The person carrying me was moving. Where to I had no idea but I heard his voice, anxious and forceful, as he put me to a sitting position.

“Ryne. It’s just your shoulder, okay? Stay with me.” I felt his warm hand caress my cheek. He withdrew it suddenly and I heard gunshots fired from his gun fired several times. He reloaded. “Ryne? Stay awake, please. Please.” I felt a hand on my cheek again. “Fuck it, Ryne. Open your eyes and look at me.”

Someone was shooting at our direction and I heard Sky retaliate. Aside from the blood dripping from my shoulder, I felt the same sensation on my forehead as well. Blood dripped from my head to my cheek, and I heard Sky’s intake of breath. I can’t focus at all. The pain was unbearable and the gunshots heard my eardrums and I suddenly collapsed, falling on my side.

-

In the instant he saw Ryne’s unfocused gaze turn blank, he caught her immediately before she fell on the floor and laid her down gently. Fuck. Being unconscious while having a head injury – not good. He killed the men already, but the lone woman. Damn her to pieces. Sky poked his head out of his cover of the front desk and fired a shot. He missed.

He needed to wake Ryne up. Now. But the fucking grey-eyed woman was playing a good game. He straightened Ryne and leaned her back to the desk. Both her shoulders and forehead were oozing blood. Calm. Keep calm. He cupped his hand to her face and shook her gently. “Ryne. Wake up, goddamn it.” her head just lolled on her shoulders. No effect. 

He fired another shot at the woman and this time, hit her on the leg. Thank God. Then he came back to Ryne, putting his gun down for the time being so he could use both of his hands. He put an arm around her back and pulled her towards him and the other hand held her face. Their foreheads were almost touching when he said, “Wake. Up. Open you fucking eyes, Ryne.” He shook her rather violently, and he saw her eyelids flicker behind her glasses. 

“Look at me. Ryne, look at me. Stay awake. Don’t you fucking dare close her eyes again. Just stay awake okay?” he looked at her chocolate brown eyes, and felt her shallow breaths mingle with his. He put her head to his shoulder and returned and retrieved his gun. 

Only it wasn’t there.

His arms came around Ryne instantly, turning his head around for the damned woman. A familiar voice echoed through the rubble,

“She left. With her tail between her legs like the coward she is.”

Xavia.

She stepped in view, gun in hand and the two backpacks with the other. :Get her out of here. I’m sure more of them would come; I’ll cover for you.” She gave him the bags and tossed him a gun. Sky quickly got everything sorted and carried Ryne, careful not to touch her injured shoulder. He didn’t pause to thank Xavia; Act now, talk later. He ran out of the doors and found her dog, which was at the side of the Ferrari. Dash barked in recognition as he saw Sky, then followed him to another vehicle – a Mercedes Guardian. He had everything in – the dog and backpacks at the back and Ryne at the front seat, barely conscious. He started the engine, wanting nothing more than to get away from this place as fast as possible.

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.”