Warning: This work has been rated 16+.
The moment Johnathan walked in, the bright lights almost blinded him. His eyes were so used to the dark light, he almost forgot how bright man made lights can be. Johnathan rubbed his eyes and listened to the few movements inside. The absence of the wind felt unnatural to him. He looked around, only to see just a few people. He knew the few people that were there had their eyes on him. Johnathan knew he stuck out even in the largest crowds. He ran his dirty hands through his short dark blonde hair. No matter how many times he had done this, it's still uncomfortable. His light blue eyes adjusted to the bright lights and are now scanning the entire front of the store. Johnathan readjusted the heavy pack on his back. He pulled the dark green canteen from the side pouch and gulped down the last few drops. "Free water" he whispered to himself, heading for the water fountain. He filled his canteen, keeping his eyes over his shoulders. He slipped the full canteen back into its pocket, but still continued to drink from the fountain. He drank until he could feel the cold water swish around in his empty stomach. He wiped his mouth with a smile. Johnathan looked around the massive store, barely anyone was there. He sighed to himself as he walked through the empty aisles. He grabbed a large can of soup and stared at it. "One quick slight of hand and no one would know" he thought to himself. He shook his head and placed the can back on the shelf. "Thou shalt not steal" he mumbled out loud walking away from the food. He didn't want to make himself any hungrier than he already was. Johnathan can feel his stomach turning in starvation. "I'll try something in the morning." he said whipping his eyes. The extreme hunger made Johnathan feel weak. The restroom signs caught his eyes. "Time for some shut eye" he whispered pulling his pack more on his back. He took a long drink from the fountain before heading into the small restroom. Johnathan peaked through stalls to see if anyone might be there. "All clear" he said dropping his pack and unzipping the large component. He pulled out a thick wool blanket and a small sheet. Johnathan locked himself in a stall and straightened out the sheet on the floor. He took a deep breath as he pulled off his boots and covered himself with the blanket. He laid his head on the sack, and waited. The idea of sleeping in a public restroom still upsets him, even though he has done it several times before. He can still hear the thunders roll outside. The heavy rains bounce off the thick stone roof, echoing like static. Johnathan closed his eyes and started to pray. "Please God keep me safe. I know you have a plan for me, and i know it'll get better." The room felt darker. Johnathan sighed and rolled over on his side, pulling his blanket up to his chin. The lights went out, and Johnathan rested. Not having the harsh winds or the Alabama coyotes made it a little bit easier for him to sleep. Johnathan felt a push on his knee and a bright light seep into his eyes. He sat up stretching, and popping his neck. A dark shadow formed before he could open his eyes. Johnathan jumped up in shock. A man around the same age as Johnathan stood holding a cup. The man just laughed a little. "Morning sunshine. I saw you crashed in here a while ago. I figure you might want some coffee." the man said handing Johnathan the cup. Johnathan could still feel the heat from the coffee. "Thanks buddy. I really appreciate it." Johnathan greeted taking a sip. He notice the tag on the mans shirt. The name Christian was stenciled in blue on a white background. "I'm Englung." the man happily greeted himself. Johnathan could easily tell this man was in the military. "I'm Geared" Johnathan introduced himself. "Now if you don't mind Englund, Im going to find me some breakfast." Johnathan explained as he folded his blanket and sheet together, stuffing them in the pack. Johnathan sipped on the coffee until he was outside. The warm morning sun and the early dew made the air feel so damp. Johnathan looked around outside. The small parking lot had a lot of traffic coming in and out. "I got and idea" Johnathan thought taking another sip of his coffee. He stepped farther outside and dropped his sack next to the wall and pulled out a small hat. He dropped the hat upside down and took several steps away from it. Johnathan slowly leaned back, stretching his back and arms. He popped his neck and squatted to pop his knees. "Lets do it" he grunted with a short run. He quickly jumped out on his hands and flipped his feet over him, landing back on his feet. He immediately heard people cheering. Johnathan dove out in front of a small group of people, landing on his hands. He braced his arms and balanced on his hands, holding his entire body upside down. He walked back to his hat on his hands, watching people drop coins in his hat. Johnathan laughed a little to himself as he saw a small audience form around him. He met eyes with a familiar face. Englund stood near the hat, smoking a cigarette. Johnathan smirked and took off in a sprint. His hands hit the ground as he twisted his body. The moment his feet hit the ground, Johnathan jumped back with a strong grunt, grabbing his legs. His momentum flung him back at high speeds. His body flipped back twice before Jonathan stuck his arms out to stop his head from colliding with the pavement. A large number of people cheered when he landed back on his feet. Englund gave a thumbs up as he flicked his cigarette. Johnathan saw that his hat had a small handful of change. He counted it happily as he pulled the pack back over his shoulder. He ran inside and grabbed a small pack of hot dogs. He felt so happy to have real food again that he didn't have to hunt for. He scanned the hot dogs on a self-check out aisle. He dropped most coins in the slot and pulled out the receipt and stuffed it in his pocket. Johnathan went back to the restroom and pulled several paper towels from the dispenser and crammed them in his pocket with the receipt. Johnathan walked outside and ripped open the pack. He quickly ate two of them and wrapped them back in the bag. He noticed that more and more people were showing up. The parking lot was getting crowded, and so was the inside. The large number of people made Johnathan nervous. He took a sip of his canteen and started walking down the sidewalk. He followed it until it ended at red light a couple of miles away. He took a long swig from his canteen and pulled out another hot dog. He ate it while he walked across the road. Johnathan saw a squirrel zip past him. He watched it as it ran through a small trail in the woods. "I wonder where that goes" he thought out loud. He reached in his pack and pulled out a small machete. He gripped the handle tightly, ready for anything. Johnathan sliced through a few yards of woods until he saw a small camper. The sides were covered with vines and moss. The small clearing was filled with trash, car parts and other assortments of junk. "This place is a dump" he said to himself stepping over a pile of shattered electronics. "Hello?!" Johnathan called out. "I guess no ones home. Lets see what goodies we have inside" he laughed to himself a little bit as he pulled the broken door open. The holes in the roof provided enough light to see all the broken rubbish scattered everywhere. "Nothing worth taking" he said kicking over a small dresser. The wood split apart and several mice scurried away from it. Johnathan listened to the whistling winds through the holes in the wall. A slight cracking noise made him hide in the shadows. He watched through a broken window as a couple of kids were picking through the rubble outside. "I wonder how bad I can scare them" Johnathan whispered to himself. He picked up a couple of broken pieces of plastic. He threw one at the broken door. The piece bounced off the wood causing a slight bang. Both of the boys jumped when they heard the noise. The younger one stepped closer towards the door. "What was that?" the older one asked completely scared. Johnathan snickered to himself as he threw another piece hard against the inside wall. The boys slowly stepped away from the door, completely scared. Johnathan took a deep breath and let out a blood curling scream. His voice screeched and split like twisting metals, echoing through the dense woods. The boys screamed and took off running. Johnathan busted out laughing as the boys made their way to the road. He took another swig from his canteen still laughing. He looked around the rubble inside, kicking through the junk. He jumped on an old washer and sat back. He rested his head on the wall and closed his eyes. He rested for his eyes for a while. The world around him went completely quiet, except for a faint buzzing noise. He looked around, trying to find the noise. The buzzing grew louder and jumped all around him. "Oh crap" Johnathan whispered to himself, slowly climbing down the washer. "I hope thats not what I think it is." He muttered under his breath, glancing quickly for a clear path to run. The buzzing surrounded him. His eyes locked on a large mass above the broken door. A massive mound with thousands of holes covering it, rested on the top of the door frame. Johnathans eyes widened when he saw hundreds of wasps hovering around the door. "I need a new way out" he blurted out looking for another exit. He stepped back, trying to keep an eye on the nest while finding a way to the outside. The only light was from the large bay window in the kitchen. "That'll have to do" Johnathan said leaning down picking up a paint can, still keeping an eye on the window. Thousands of wasps were buzzing forming a thick cloud in front of the door. "Now!" he grunted, throwing the paint can through the window. The glass shattered into a million pieces. Johnathan bolted towards the window, jumping at the glass. His body crashed through the glass as it rained to the ground. He landed on his feet, but the weight of the sack on his back made him crash to the ground. He pushed himself up and took off running. He laughed to himself a little as he slowed down to catch his breath. He rested his back against a large tree and readjusted the sack. He reached for his canteen on the side and felt the cap still opened. "Please God" he almost cried. He pulled out the canteen, closed the lid and shook it. The water slushed around inside of it. "Only half. Great" he grunted taking a small swig from it before shoving it back in his pack. "I guess its wood working time" Johnathan said dropping his pack against a large tree. He unzipped it and pulled out the small rusted machete. He slipped the blade through his belt and began picking up sticks and branches, piling them together. The sun slowly fell behind the trees and darkness filled the woods. Johnathan pulled the paper towels from his pocket and stuffed them under a loose pile of twigs. He struck a match and held it next the paper. The flames jumped back and forth between the papers. They ignited quickly, sending flames to the dry twigs. The bright light made him feel a little more at ease. He watched as the flames grow and crackle with the dead wood. Johnathan sat and stared at the burning pile. The crackle of the wood was the only noise he could hear. He sighed, moving the coals with the rusted machete. He opened the plastic bag and stuck his last hotdog at an end of a long stick. He dangled the stick over the fire, letting the meat blacken. The meat sizzled and caught fire. The smoke disappeared in the night sky. The heavy clouds seem to thicken over time. Johnathan wrapped the flaming hot dog with a piece of bread. His eyes were still locked on the large fire in front of him, he didn’t notice the flames in his hand. He turned his head to take a bite. His short breath made the little flame jump to his mouth. He dropped his dinner in pain, holding his mouth. He began to laugh to himself. "Five second rule" he chuckled and grabbed his food off the ground. He blew on it then took a bite. He finished his meal slowly enjoying every taste. He opened his canteen and took a big swig. The little bit of water left swished around at the bottom. He almost cried when he felt the emptiness of his water. "As I lay my head down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul will take. Please God, let it rain tomorrow; or at least let there be a creek around." He prayed to himself pulling his small quilt around his chest. He laid his head down on the ruck sack. He remembered when the soldier gave him the sack, filled with supplies. Johnathan still feels blessed because of the soldier. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. "It could be worse" he said to himself. The sound of the fire seemed to fade away as Johnathan drifted as into his dreams. The light of the warm sun awoken him. The smell of the ash filled the air. Johnathan pulled himself to his feet. He quickly packed all of his belongings in the ruck sack. He checked his canteen again, praying more water will be there. Alas there was no more than the night before. "I better find some water, and some breakfast." His voice almost cracked with sorrow. He began walking, thinking about the past several months. Each day seemed to be more challenging. Each meal seemed to more difficult to find. He grabbed a large branch from a nearby tree and tugged it. The snap of the branch echoed through the dense woods. He plucked all of the small twigs off the branch. He stared at the small flame, still dancing with the morning wind. "I figured that thing will be long gone by now" he said knowing no one was there to hear him. He stomped out the small flame. A thin string of smoke floated above him. He began walking away when he heard a crackle behind him. He turned around quickly, gripping his stick like a sword. Another small flame unburied itself from the ashes. Johnathan stared in confusion. The ashes seem to move. Johnathan kept is stick out and crept over to the small flame. The little fire began to grow. Johnathan focused hard on the fire. The fire flickered vividly and uncontrollably. "Maybe I’m just over thinking this." He said lowering his stick. He stomped out the fire again, twisting his foot to smother the flame. He sighed and headed out of the woods. A few miles past in silence before he reached the main road. He walked along the shoulder with his thumb up, hoping someone will pass by. A roaring car sped past him, honking the horn. Johnathan could feel the rage rising in his chest. He walked for another few miles before he made it into town. He crept behind a fast food place, making sure no one sees him. He hid behind the dumpster resting on the ruck sack. He closed his eyes and rested. He awoke to the sound of the lid slamming shut. He waited until he heard the back door closed again before he jumped in the dumpster. He opened the fresh bag. "Jack pot" he whispered opening the wrappers. He ate three biscuits and a batch of fries, then he shoved the rest of the fresh food in his sack. He listened for silence and jumped out. He hummed and walked around the building to the front door. He waited in line with a smile on his face. Having food for the day was a blessing. 'Most people take all that food for granted' he thought to himself. He got to the register and handed the young girl his canteen. He brushed his hand against hers. Her warm skin felt so soft against his. "Do you mind if I get some water? I have a long walk" he flirted. The young girl smiled back. "Sure. You want an extra cup?" she smiled and blushed. Johnathan saw the spark in her eyes. "Well if you don’t mind beautiful." He winked. "So, where you headed to" she smiled. John grinned. "I got to go find some stuff" he said trying not to tell the whole truth. The girl blushed when John readjusted the sack on his back. She couldn’t help but to notice his muscular arms. "I’ll be right back" she blushed. She pulled out a large cup and stepped away. She appeared back holding his canteen and the filled cup. "Here you go" she flirted. Johnathan took the cup and canteen, making sure his hands laid over hers. "Thank you so much" he smiled holding her hands. He took a step back and grinned. He took a big sip of the cup and slipped the canteen in his sack. He noticed a piece of paper stuck to his canteen. He unfolded it and read it. A huge smile light up his face. He placed the paper in his wallet. He turned and walked backwards out the door, when he saw the girl signing to call her. He looked around the busy intersection, thinking of a place to stay for the day. He saw a small truck stop with a few people eating outside. He walked back in the restaurant and stood by the side. As soon as the line cleared, he stepped up to the counter. The young girl from before walked up with that warming smile that Johnathan could never forget. "What time do you get off" he whispered. She blushed and replied softly. "I get off at three thirty." Johnathan nodded his head. "Then I'll be here at three twenty five" he ran his fingers over her hand. He stepped out the door and met eyes with her through the window. He could see the blush in her cheeks, so he blew her a kiss. She blushed and covered her smile with her sleeve. She answered the phone next to her and winked back at Johnathan. He sighed happily and started across the highway to the truck stop. He got to the crowd outside and said hello. He pulled open the door and saw no one inside. He looked around the store, then noticed a small book rack. He scanned through the titles, looking for something interesting. He picked up a book with a skeleton holding a medallion over a circus. "Bound Forever". He read the title. He sat down and began reading. Time slowed down around him as he was swept away with the story. The ring of the opening door brought him back to reality. He stood in reflex. "As you were" the clerk said stepping behind the counter. Johnathan placed the book back in the rack and headed outside. He saw the group of people joking around at a table. He sat down by himself. He pulled out two more biscuits and began to eat. He watched the others. The group of friends started to spread out. Johnathan kept his hand on his pocket knife. The group began jumping and flipping around in the grass. Johnathan got up and threw away his trash. He looked around and saw the group slowing down. Johnathan jumped back and flipped back repeatedly, showing off his athleticism. The group cheered and chanted for him. He stopped on his hands and slowly walked to the center of the group. The group almost instantly accepted him. They sat down to rest. "So where you from man." one asked taking a drink. Johnathan just grinned. "Not too far from here" Johnathan lied. Jonathan's eyes met the guy sitting on the railing. "So how did you learn all that?" He asked seeming a little worried. Johnathan smirked taking a sip from his water. "Well I've been on my own for some time now and it's best to learn how to escape and fight back. Plus it's not difficult if you know how to deal with it" Johnathan said glancing at his watch. "Deal with what?" The youngest one asked breaking the silence. Johnathan locked eyes with him. "Gravity" Jonathan answered seriously. "Well it's been fun, but I got something to do" he said slinging his sack on his back and heading back in the store. Johnathan picked up the book and walked to the cashier. "This is going to be odd, but I'm just going to sit here and read this while I wait on my ride." The cashier just stared at him. "Just letting you know" he said sitting down at booth near a window. He sets his watch and begins to read. The world seems to stop as he reads. Time passes around him. The story on the pages made his mind create that world. His beeping watch pulls him back to reality. Johnathan almost jumps at his watch. "Wow" he said realizing that half the book was turned back. He looked around and saw no one around. He placed the book back in the rack and headed for the restaurant. He waited by the highway for an opening. He sprinted quickly to pass both sides. He stood catching his breath. He took a deep breath before opening the door. He looked around the busy area. He smiled when he saw the girl reading. He noticed the books title, and smiled. "As Thomas got shot yet?" He asked sitting down in front of her. "What? No, he can't get shot" she said closing her book. Johnathan smiled. "Don't worry, I'm only half way done with it" he said. "I almost thought you wouldn't show" she said taking a sip from her drink. "Well I'm here, Lacie. My name's Johnathan." He said pulling his sack off of his back. "How did you know my name?" She asked kind of scared. He pointed to her shirt. "Oh yeah, my name tag. So how about we get out of here" she said putting her book in her purse. "Would love to" Johnathan said pulling back on his sack. They began to walk through the parking lot. "So why do you carry that everywhere?" She asked a little concerned. The question sent chills down his spine. "It's all I have" he said softly. She stopped him in his tracks. "So you're homeless?" She asked firmly. "Well I wouldn't call it homeless, just not occupying a residence" he answered trying not to sound pathetic. "How? I mean what happened? You're such a strong and fit, plus you’re hot." She stopped and blushed. He caught what she said but didn't respond. "What happened?" She asked again. He stopped and fixed his ruk. "Well last year when the thunder storms hit. The thunder hit my house in Birmingham, along with the lighting. The fire started in the kitchen." Johnathan could still smell the smoke. Lacie couldn’t believe what happened to him. "Where were you at?" she asked scared to know. Johnathan sighed. "I was in my room down the hall. Mom was asleep on the couch in the living room." his voice began to crack. "The fire got to her before I could." Johnathan tried to hide his tears. Lacie stood there shocked. "Oh my god, I’m so sorry" she said trying not to cry herself. Johnathan just shook his head "I couldn’t get anything in time. I was too worried about her rather than the paper work. So I lost everything. My I.Ds my school records. So now I just do what I can" He tried his best to make it sound like it didn’t hurt anymore, but Lacie could see the tears in his eyes. A silence fell between them. Her phone buzzed in her pocket almost scaring her. The moment she answered it, Johnathan could hear screaming on the other end. Anger arose in Lacie's face as the screaming continued. "Ok well forget you. Don’t call me back. No! Go back to that slut" she screamed. Johnathan’s heart began to race as he could hear the names the man on the other line called her. "Screw you!" she screamed hanging up the phone. Johnathan sat there wondering what just happened. "That was my ex. He wants to pick me up and go to his place with another girl" she explained. "Sorry" she apologized. "I heard what he called you and if he calls back let me talk to him" he said holding back his anger. "I don’t want anything to get started" she replied. "Trust me, if he starts something I will just end it" he said trying to control his breathing. Her phone rings again. Lacie sighs and answered it. "Don’t call me ever again!" she screamed hanging up the phone. It buzzes again. She waits for it to stop. The buzzing continues for several moments. "Let me see that thing" Johnathan said grabbing the phone. "No" she cried. "Hello" Johnathan answered in a calm voice. The man began to scream and cuss at him. "Dude, leave her alone. She does not want you, so go back to whatever you were doing and not call this number." Lacie hears the screaming on the other line. "You know what, fine. If you want her come get her, come on; but don’t complain when you're pulling yourself off the road." John shot back. Lacie immediate got scared. "Yeah...sure...whatever...punk" Johnathan hung up the phone. "He wants to come here and stomp me" Johnathan laughed. "What are you crazy? He'll kill you" Lacie panicked. "Look at me, he's not going to kill me and if he does try something stupid I'll defend myself according to the situation." he said holding her hand. She paused and stared at their hands. At every touch, she could feel butterflies in her stomach. "So let me guess" he said sitting down. "He dropped you off this morning and ya’ll two got into it and you dumped him and now you have no way home. Am I close?" he asked throwing gravel down the road. "How did you know?" She asked sitting down beside him. "When I answered the phone, he panicked. Like you have chosen me over him. So that tells me he's insecure and knows you can do better" he said throwing a stone into the highway. It bounced through both lanes. "Wow, you're good. Now what?" she sat down beside him holding his arm. She immediately pulled away when she noticed it. Johnathan smiled. "Can I call you John instead of Johnathan?" she asked wanting to know what he thought of her. He turned and looked at her. "You can call me whatever you want" He smiled. He thought John sounded great from her. They locked eyes and smiled at one another. John could see her blushing. Moments passed as they talked. A roaring engine silenced their convocation. Lacie jumped up "Oh crap, I forgot." John stood up beside her. Three men got out of the beaten up import and rushed towards them. "Oh yeah. I honestly forgot about you. Oh and you brought friends; how lovely." John said with a smile. "Don’t provoke him" she snapped to him. "Get in the car." the driver shouted. "How could she. I don’t know if you noticed; that’s a two seater" John pointed to the car. "So unless one of your goons ride in the trunk, there’s no room." John smarted off. "Can it punk" he snapped at John. "Now I said get in the car" he yelled. "No!" Lacie shouted stepping behind John. The driver steps up to John and gets in his face. The driver was much larger than John. John stared in his eyes. Johns chin was level with the man’s chest. "Move" he demanded. John smirked. "I think the lady said no" John smarted off again. "That’s it" the man yelled and grabbed Johns shoulders. "You have two seconds to let go of me. One" John shot back with anger in his voice. "Or what?" the man said jolting John back and forth. "Two!" John grunted, jumping back and throwing the man over the top of him. The other two men rushed John. John ran to the side of the building. The two man chased him. With a grunt, John took three steps up the wall and flipped backwards over them. The two men stopped just before the wall. The driver ran up behind John and grabbed him. John jumped and kicked both men in front of him and slammed his head back into the driver’s nose. John broke his arms free and grabbed the man’s head and flipped him over his shoulder. John stepped back and began to hop around like a boxer. "I can do this all day" he taunted. The three men ran off to the car cussing at one another. Lacie stared at John as they drove off. "What?" John smirked. "You are crazy" Lacie said holding her purse. "So where do you live, I’ll walk you home" he said pulling his sack over his shoulders. "About ten miles from here" she shook her head. "That’s not to far." he replied. "Look John, that was sweet and all that but I think I could get my friend to pick me up." she said pulling her phone out of her purse. John was confused. Lacie stepped away and made her call. He could hear Lacie telling her friend what happened. He sat there picking at a knot on his ruck sack. She ended the phone call and sat back down next to John. "Well" she sighed. "My friend is on her way. Where are you going to go" she asked. "Oh crap I’m sorry I didn’t mean for that to sound mean." she apologized. "It’s ok, I’ll go back to my camp" he said taking a sip from his canteen. John got up and started walking towards his camp. "Wait" Lacie screamed. John turned around and saw her walking towards him. "Just stay here until she gets here. I’ll explain everything to her." she said firmly. "I don’t want her to know everything" John said with pain in his voice. "Ok" she agreed. "Let’s just go back inside." She took his hand and walked back inside. "Do you want anything to eat?" she asked as John laid his sack on a table. "Nah, I still have a little food left from this morning" he sat down and pulled the biscuits from his sack. He opened one and offered another to Lacie. "Where did you get those?" she asked sitting in front of him. John stopped and stared at the food in his hands. "I ... Uhh... I got them this morning." His words almost slurred. Lacie noticed the writing on the wrappers. She leaned in close to him. "Did you get those out of the trash?" she whispered, feeling a little remorse. John didn’t answer, he lowered his head in shame. Lacie quickly stood up and walked away. John felt so embarrassed. His eyes burned holding back tears and sorrow. Lacie returned with a large tray, and sat it in front of John. He looked confused. "What's that?" he asked as he slowly slid the biscuits back into his bag. "It's our lunch" Lacie smiled. She sat down and opened a few boxes. "I hope you like chicken" Lacie smiled as she set the table. John couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He closed his eyes and said a quick prayer before devouring the sandwich. Lacie watched him. "How have you been surviving, yet along keeping fit and able to do what you do?" Lacie asked so amazed. John quickly swallowed his food and wiped his mouth. "All I do is look for food and supplies. Kind of like just...." John sighed and shook his head. "Sometimes it feels pointless, the way I'm living." John explained, dipping a piece of chicken in sauce. Lacie felt sorry for him. A loud horn echoed outside, almost making John jump. "That's Ashley. Do you want to ride with us?" She asked resting her hand on his. "I would love to go with you" John smiled back. He took his sack and threw it on his back. They both got up and raced to the car. John got to the passenger first and opened it just as Lacie got close. She smiled at him. "What a gentleman" she whispered to herself. John smiled when he heard it. He closed the door and got in behind her, setting his sack beside him. "This is John, the guy I told you about" Lacie said buckling her seat belt. Ashley readjusted her mirror. "Wow you were right. He is hot" Ashley said with a seductive smile. Lacie almost blushed. "So how old are you John" Ashley asked forcing the car in gear. "I just turned twenty one" he said listening to the gears grind. "You know that’s not good for the transmission" John said cringing at the noise. "You want to drive?" Ashley snapped, pulling the emergency brake. "Oh yeah" John answered quickly getting out and opening the driver door for Ashley. Ashley stepped out and gave the same seductive smile. She got in the back seat and positioned herself in the middle. John jumped in the driver seat and let down the brake. He could hear the whispers between the girls as he backed up. He met eyes with Lacie and smiled. He winked and revved the engine. He quickly pushed the knob in gear and spun off, slinging loose gravel behind him. "Wait, do you have a license?" Lacie asked grabbing both the handle and Johns arm. "Nope" he laughed driving off. Ashley began to whisper to Lacie again. John started to feel a little nervous about their secret convocations. "So Mr. John, where are you from?" Ashley asked sitting back. "Well originally I'm not from here. I’m from a place called Ori-Thione" he answered without thinking. He waited for their response. "Ori-thigh on" Lacie questioned. "Is that like in Europe, or something like that" Ashley asked puzzled. "Something like that" John laughed thinking about his answer this time. "Ok now where are we going?” John asked stopping at a red light. Ashley pulled herself closer to him, using the seats as leverage. "At the gas station take a right, and she lives on the second right." Ashley said running her finger down Johns arm. Lacie snapped back at her with a mean look of jealousy. "What all do you have in here?" Ashley asked slowly unzipping the main part of his ruck sack. "Everything I own" he answered watching her in the rear view mirror. "I'll prefer you not to do that miss" John shot back almost in an angry voice. Ashley smiled back to him zipping it back. "Ashley could you please not mess with his stuff" Lacie demanded. "Sorry about her she gets kind of nosy" she smiled and winked at John. John’s eyes widened, he couldn’t help but to smile back. "So are you homeless or something?" Ashley asked breaking the connection between John and Lacie. "Ashley! Oh my God. Just stop." Lacie snapped at her friend, feeling embarrassed. "I’m so sorry" Lacie apologized again. John took a deep breath and thought of his next response. "Yeah, I am homeless. All that stuff is all I have and a few of them are very valuable to me. I have something that you will never find" Johns voice almost changed pitch at the mention of the valuables. He pulled up to her road and slowed to a stop. John opened his door and rushed to open Lacie’s. "Do you want me to walk you to the door?" John asked helping her out of the car. Johns hand felt extremely cold against Lacie’s skin. He slowly pulls her up to her feet. Ashley watched John and imagined what she wanted him to do to her. Lacie smiled at him. "I don’t know if that’ll be a good idea" Lacie said softly; although she really wanted any excuse to be with him. The slamming of a door made Lacie jump. A large man wearing camouflage pants and a tan shirt stood on the porch. Lacie glared at John with a little fear in her eyes. "That’s my dad" she whispered. John nodded his head and stepped towards the man. "Good evening, sir" John said with a strong voice. John walked closer to her father. John could hear the whispers of Ashley, and hear the steps of Lacie moving closer to him. "My name is Johnathan Geared" John said holding out his hand. "Nice to meet you" Lacie’s father boomed as he shook Johns hand. John squeezed his hand with a little force. John took a step back and placed both hands behind his back. John spoke with a calm but stern voice. "I was at the restaurant where Lacie works; and there was a small confrontation between her and her ex. He showed up with two other men and tried to get her in the car with them. So when she refused the fellow got angry". Lacie was scared but still stood beside John. Her father watched John as he spoke in parade rest. John continued. "He reacted out of anger, so I defended myself according to the situation; protecting myself and your daughter." John did not move his hands from behind his back. Her father took a deep breath and crossed his arms. "So what happened next?" He asked staring into Johns blue eyes. "Lacie called her friend to come pick her up, after I offered to walk her home." John answered quickly keeping his voice strong. "Wait. You wanted to walk her home? That’s about ten miles away." Her father interrupted John. "Yes sir, I was aware. I wanted to make sure she got home safe." His tone changed thinking about her safety. Lacie’s father almost changed attitudes immediately. "Well, I appreciate your concern Johnathan." Her father said, he glared at Lacie with a little sorrow in his eyes. "What happened with you and Chris?" He asked uncrossing his big arms. Lacie didn’t answer, she just shook her head. "John, I do appreciate what you have done, but it’s getting late, and I think you and Ashley should go ahead and go back home. I got it from here" her father’s voice almost weakened. John nodded his head. "Yes sir, it was nice meeting you" John shook her fathers hand again, with the same force. "Can I see you tomorrow?" John asked Lacie, keeping a little distance. "Yeah, same time" Lacie smiled. John smiled and winked at Lacie; then turned and jogged to the car. He started the engine and noticed Ashley staring at him. "What?" He asked letting the car roll back. Ashley shook her head. "I can tell you’re not from around here" she said in a serious voice. John changed gears and replied; "how?” He wondered if she expected anything. "You are just too nice and plus your hot. I didn’t think anyone existed that were both" she said climbing up to the front seat. "What do you mean?" John asked keeping his eyes on the road. "I mean every guy that looks good is a cocky prick, and all the nice guys are just too much of a wimp. Honestly I’m a little bit jealous" Ashley laughed trying to sound sarcastic. She was jealous and John could tell. They drove off. Lacie wondered if John was flirting with Ashley, but realized that she was so happy to have met him. Lacie shut the door to her room and took off her work shirt and pants. She laid on her bed and pulled out her diary and began to write about what happened.
John pulled into Ashley’s drive way and got out to open her door. "Why are you so nice to us?" She asked stepping out of her car. John shrugged his shoulders. "That’s how my mother raised me. I’m nice to everyone." He said shutting her doors. "Even Chris and his friends?" She asked. "Well I just defended myself according to the situation" John said it with a stern voice. "You broke Bradley’s nose" she said holding her phone. John looked at her in confusion. "Bradley was the smaller one you kicked in the face" she said as the phone buzzed in her hand. "Like I said, it was according the situation. The three guys attacked me and I did bare minimum that was necessary." John said trying not to sound like he was just messing with his attackers. "If that was bare minimum" she said stepping closer. "I would like to see 'all the way'" she said running her finger down his chest and stomach. She could feel the muscles through his thin shirt. John stepped back. "I think you should answer that" he said pointing at her buzzing phone. Ashley looked at her phone. "Oh it’s just Brad. He’s pissed now that I broke up with him." She said with a little hurt in her voice. "And why did you leave him" John asked resting on the car hood. The extreme heat from the engine did not bother him. "All he wants to do is have sex. I’m fine with every once and a while, but that’s all he wants to do now. He doesn’t even want to talk or hang out anymore. That’s why Lacie broke up with Chris. All Chris wanted to do for the past few weeks is to get her to screw him. Lacie is still a virgin and she wanted to wait a while. He was fine for a while." She muted her phone. She sat on leaned against her door. "But ever since he went to that bonfire with his buddy Pinky, they all have been acting so weird." She shook her head. "So where are you going to stay tonight?" She asked positioning her purse. John looked around. "I guess I can set up camp in the woods" he said pulling out his ruck. "Nope" Ashley said with a smile. "You are staying here. You need a shower and a shave wouldn’t hurt" she said taking the keys from his hand. John gripped the keys a little harder. Her hands felt warm to John. "God your hands are freezing" she said pulling the keys loose. "Come inside" Ashley jokingly demanded. "I don’t think Lacie would like that." He replied in a low voice. "She won’t mind. Plus, it’s better than the ground. I could wash your clothes and let you eat." She said locking her car doors. Ashley didn’t understand why she wanted to be nice, but she felt like she had to. John rubbed his rough face and thought about it. "Ok that'll be lovely" John said taking her offer. "Now go hop in the shower and leave your clothes out and I'll grab them up." She opened her front door and pointed down the hall. "I might as well wash all your clothes while I’m at it. You can wear one of my brothers sweat pants to sleep in" she said turning on the light. John felt so blessed to have a roof over his head and a chance to shower and shave. He couldn’t remember his last shave and didn’t even want to think about his last shower that didn’t involve the rain. He sat on his couch and opened his sack and pulled out a few pairs of pants, four shirts and a thick jacket. "You know you don’t have to do this for me" John said taking a sip from his canteen. "It’s the least I can do. I’ll wait until you’re in the shower before I wash them; so I can wash them all at once." Ashley could not figure out why she wanted to be so nice to someone she just met. John stood up and stretched. "A shower sounds pretty good right now." He said with a short laugh. Ashley nodded and smiled. John made his way to the bathroom and took off his shirt. Ashley stopped and stared at his stomach, biting her bottom lip without thinking. John just shook his head and closed the door. Ashley stood there, peaking through the cracks. She could see him taking off his pants. She wondered what he looked like naked. The door opened just a little and John handed her all his clothes through the small opening. "It’s not nice to stare" he said shutting the door. Ashley almost blushed. She walked away holding his clothes. She stopped at the end of the hallway, thinking. "Why did I just blush?" She whispered to herself. "What is up with this guy" she wondered. She made her way to the washing machine and started the laundry. She was still confused about her actions. John stood in front of the mirror looking over his body. Scars covered most of his arms and back. He splashed his face with water and began to shave. After taking his time on his first shave in months; he washed his face again. He stared at himself in the mirror. He took a deep breath and stepped in the warm shower. He felt like the water was washing more than just dirt and grime. Months of pain and worry washed down the small drain. He washed off his entire body. He stepped out and stared in the mirror, he thought he looked different. He smiled and wrapped the towel around his waist and stepped out of the steaming room. "I'm finished Ashley" he called down the hall. Ashley stepped around the corner and froze. She stared at his dripping body, in amazement. She pulled her phone out of her pocket and snapped a picture. John just shook his head. "Really?" He said holding on the towel. Ashley began typing on her phone. "I'm sending that to Lacie. She will love it" Ashley said still typing on her phone. John felt nervous. He wondered how she would react. Ashley tossed him a pair of pajamas and stepped away. He dropped his towel and slipped on the pants and headed to the living room. He saw a blanket spread out and a pillow laying neatly placed on one end. "Well good night. We'll go see Lacie about an hour before she gets off" she said watching him go through his bag. "What is that?" She asked seeing him pull a large shiny rock from a pocket. "Nothing" he said putting it back in the pocket. He pulled the covers to his waist and laid his head down. "Thanks Ashley. Good night" he said in a soft voice. Ashley still couldn’t believe how the day went. "One more question" she said twirling her phone in her hands. John sat up and nodded. "Okay what is it?" He asked a little confused. Ashley took a deep breath and spoke. "Why are we so nice to you? I mean I just met you this morning and I already trust you in my house, how?" She asked keeping her eyes on him. John smirked. "It’s a trick my mother taught me. Every time someone shows kindness from their hearts it releases a chemical from the brain, I try to touch them at that particular point and it keeps those feelings and chemicals rushing in the memory." John just realized what he said. "Kind of like a mental magic trick" he said avoiding going into detail. "Oh." She wondered how he still did that. "Well good night, I’m going to put your clothes in the dryer and head to bed." She turned off the light and went to the laundry room. She pulled out his clothes and began tossing them into the dryer. She pulled out his jacket and saw a tear at the right shoulder. Blood has permanently stained the sleeve. She sighed and turned on the dryer before heading to her own room to lay down. John laid there in the dark. He rolled on to his side and prayed to himself. He remembered his mother and the stone his father gave her so long ago. He thought about his life before he left; then he thought of Lacie. Her soft voice echoed through his mind, he could still feel her soft touch. He closed his eyes thinking of her. He could feel his fingers and palm start to get cold. He knew what that could be. He rested his mind, still thinking of her. He feel deep into sleep.
Lacie was laying in her bed writing in her dairy when her phone buzzed. She rolled over and unlocked her phone. The picture of John soaking wet wrapped in a towel covered her screen. She immediately sat up and stared at the phone. She could feel herself getting warm. She smiled and blushed. She pulled her blanket to her chin and laid down, still staring at his picture. She smiled and placed one hand between her legs and closed her eyes. She dreamed of John; mostly without the towel. The bright sun seeped through Lacie’s window. The warmth of the sun couldn’t compare on how she felt the night before. Lacie unlocked her phone and the image of John still filled the screen. She smiled and saved the picture. She called Ashley, still smiling. As soon as Ashley answered, Lacie blurted out. "Hey can you come get me? I have to work today and I want to hang out before you take me in; plus how’s John doing? Is he still there?" Lacie finally took a breath and waited. Ashley laughed a little. "Calm down girl. I think he's still asleep. Want me to come to you now so you can wake him up" Ashley said jokingly. There was a silence. "Yeah" Lacie almost screamed. Ashley sighed. "Alright. Let me get dressed." Ashley hung up her phone and quickly got dressed. She slowly stepped through her living room and saw John still asleep. His leg was dangling off the couch. She saw a huge scar stretch up to most of his calf. She wondered what he did to get all the scars. She slowly opened the door and closed it back. Ashley got in her car, trying not to make any noise. She let down the brake and shifted the stick to neutral and started to roll down the hill. Once she knew she was far enough, she cranked it and took off. The drive was quiet. She kept wondering what would happen if John woke up and no one was there. She pulled into Lacie’s driveway and saw her sitting on her porch with a small bag. Lacie took off down the stairs and jumped in the seat before Ashley could pull the brake. "Where’s the fire girl?" Ashley joked. "Oh let me guess, in your pants" she laughed. Lacie blushed a little. "Just go" Lacie said smiling. They drove off. As she saw her house become closer she sped up a little more and pushed the car in neutral and turned off the engine. The quite car rolled to a stop in the drive way. Lacie quickly got out and headed for the door. Ashley laughed to herself and followed. They both slowly made their way in. Lacie saw John on the couch and almost froze. Seeing him shaved and clean made him look even sexier to her. John turned in his sleep. Ashley turned on the light. "Good morning" Lacie said in a flirting voice. John rose up and smiled, wiping his eyes. "How'd you sleep?" Lacie asked watching him stretch. John popped his back, and smiled. "Best sleep I had in a long time" he answered honestly. Ashley opened the fridge and got a cold bottle of coffee. "I think we can go to the park and walk around for a little bit" Ashley said shaking the bottle. John stood up and began folding the blanket. "How about I get dressed first" John laughed. "Where did you place my clothes Ashley?" He asked politely. "They are down the hall in the dryer." Ashley said pointing down the hall. John made his way to the dryer. Lacie smiled at Ashley. "I can’t believe I like him so much" she whispered to her friend. Ashley just smiled. "Yeah you are lucky. You know he told me something last night that kind of scared me" Ashley said quietly watching John go into the bathroom. "What?" Lacie asked leaning in closer. "He said that the reason we like him so much is because when he touched our hands, it kept the chemicals in our brains up or something like that. He said it was a magic trick he learned from his mother" Ashley whispered. "I don’t care. He’s a lot better than Chris was" Lacie shot back. John came back holding his clothes, wearing faded torn blue jeans and a bright white shirt. "I can’t thank you two enough for what ya’ll have done for me. I hope I’m not a bother" John said putting his clothes back in his sack. "No problem, John" Lacie shot quickly. "So how about the park" Lacie said winking at John. "Okay but I’m driving" Ashley said heading for the door. Ashley slammed the door behind her. Lacie smiled at John in the silence. John stepped closer, "I really want to thank you for everything Lacie" he leaned closer and smiled. "You really mean a lot to me" he whispered and kissed her softly on the lips. The feeling of pure pleasure rushed in her entire body. The kiss took her breath away. Lacie blushed and covered her smile. John took her hand and kissed it. Lacie felt his cold lips sending chills through her body. "Come on, she’s waiting on us" he said opening the door. She blushed again and headed to the car. They both climbed in the back seat. "Alright now no screwing around back there unless I can join" Ashley almost joked glancing in the mirror. Lacie reached up and slapped Ashley in the arm laughing. "Well we might just have to do that" John said without thinking. John could feel Lacie staring at him. John smiled at her and held her hand. Lacie thought about it. "Maybe" she whispered to John holding his arm. John watched as the roads pass by. The smell if the fresh dew still filled the air. Ashley stopped at the park and saw no one there. "Hey I remember this park" John said stepping out of the car. Lacie climbed out after him, grabbing his pants for balance. She looked around. "You’ve been here before?" Lacie asked. John smiled. "Yeah this is where I stayed during winter. I used to sleep in the tube by the rock climb" he said pointing to the playground. "Wow" Lacie said to herself. Ashley locked the doors and sat on her hood. "So what do ya’ll want to do?" Ashley asked winking at John. John smiled and winked back. "How about we see the ducks" John proclaimed. "What ducks" Lacie questioned. "I’ll show you" John said taking both girls by the hand and headed for the wood lines. John held both girls hands as he lead them through the woods. He came to a clearing near a pond with a swarm of ducks and squirrels. The suns dim light sparkled off the clear water. "Wow" Lacie said in amazement. "It’s beautiful. How’d you find this?" She asked watching the light flicker off the water. John could feel Ashley’s fingers rub his hands. "I used to hunt and fish here" John said letting go of the girls hands and slowly walking to the water. He stared into the pond, watching the fish swim around each other. He waited for one to slow down. With a quick sweep, he reached in and snatched a brim out of the water. The fish wiggled in his hands, but John kept a strong grip on it. "Holy crap" Ashley shot out in amazement. John smiled and held the fish tight. "They are even bigger in winter" John stated letting the fish go back in the water. "How many people know about this place?" Ashley asked stepping closer to John. John spoke as if it was a secret. "Barely anyone" he whispered. He walked around listening for noises. "However I think someone’s here" he exclaimed. Ashley looked around, listening as well. "I don’t see anyone" she said taking another step toward John. "No of course not" a voice boomed from the wood line. John met eyes with the man stepping into sight. "It’s Chris" Lacie almost screamed. She stepped behind John. "Can you not just leave us alone" Lacie shouted in anger. Chris almost laughed. "I just want to ask your friend a question" he called. John called back "What do you want" Chris walked up to John and stared in his eyes. "Now John, what am I supposed to do with you? You are always in my way and you are kind of messing up my plans by just being here." Chris spoke as he cracked his knuckles. "Now how about you just leave everyone alone and go back to your hole in the ground" Chris locked eyes with John again. John watched his eyes. John almost jumped when he saw Chris' eyes change. His pupils faded to a light grey and his green iris darkened. John stepped up to him. "Go home Chris. I’m not bothering anyone" John responded. "See that’s the thing John, you are bothering someone." Chris interrupted. "You’re bothering me, but that’s ok, I’ll take care of you later" Chris said shoving John out of the way. John felt the coldness of Chris' hands. John shook his head. "Come on how about we go somewhere else" John said straightening his shirt. Ashley placed her hand on his chest. "Don’t let him get to you, he’s just a prick" Ashley told him running her finger down his arm. John watched Chris walk off into the woods. "When did you say he started acting like this?" John asked not letting his eyes leave the wood line. Ashley waited until he looked at her before she answered. "They went a party in the woods with someone Chris worked with. Why?" Ashley asked a little scared. "I think he talked Chris into being like this" John said taking a deep breath. "I’ll deal with it later" he said grabbing Lacie’s hand. "Come on" he looked at her and smiled. They walked back to the car. "So what time do you go in?" John asked Lacie pulling her closer to his side. "In an hour" she answered. Ashley laughed a little. "What?" Lacie asked wrapping her arm around Johns arm. "I just had a crazy thought” she laughed again. "And what was that" John asked leaning back on her car. "Well the park center is opened, and no one’s here" she said playing with her hand. "We could all get the locker room and take a shower. You two could have your own" Ashley smiled at Lacie. John’s heart pounded in his stomach, imagining that idea. Lacie looked around, scared. "Oh come on Lacie, you know you want to" Ashley laughed. Lacie began to blush. "I say that’s the greatest thing I’ve ever heard in my life" John blurted out. Lacie smiled. "Fine" she said blushing. Ashley grabbed her hand and said "then let’s go". They both started walking to the building. John stood there losing his breath. Lacie turned and signaled John to follow. John took off running with all his strength, reaching the doors before the girls. He opened it for them and followed them inside. The girls took off running to the back showers and John followed them. "You ready?" Lacie asked pulling at John’s shirt. "You have no idea" he said. Ashley went to another shower and left John and Lacie alone. Lacie pulled John close and started kissing him. She pulled off his shirt and ran her hands across his chest. "Can I ask you something?" He asked wrapping his arms around her waist. Lacie smiled and nodded. "I’ve fallen for you so fast. I can’t stop thinking about you. Will you go out with me and officially be my girlfriend?" He could feel his heart pounding. Lacie smiled more and blushed. "I thought you would never ask" she said kissing him. "Yes. Yes, a thousand times yes" she said kissing him more. She pulled off her shirt and kicked off her shoes. John ran his hands across her back. She unclipped her bra and let fall off. John unbuckled his belt and pulled off his shoes. Lacie pulled off her pants and turned on the water. John stared at her bare body. The water rained over her, she ran her hands over her long blonde hair. "You want to join me?" She said softly rubbing the water on her chest. John quickly kicked off pants and stepped into the water. "Oh my god" Lacie gasped when she saw all of John. She kissed him pulling him close. She moaned a little when she felt John rub against her thigh. John kissed her neck and rubbed her chest. Lacie moaned again. She could feel Johns blood flowing against her. She started rubbing her hips against him. John lost his breath, feeling her bare skin. Lacie’s hands ran down John’s stomach. The feeling of his muscles drove her crazy. She reached down and grabbed him. He gasped in pleasure when she started to pull on him. He bit her neck and kissed down her chest, letting his hand fall between her legs. Lacie moaned even louder as John rubbed her. She started pulling him faster. She grabbed both of John’s hands and smiled at him. He didn’t know what was next. Lacie knelt down and kissed Johns thighs. She felt him rub against her cheek. She looked up at him and smiled. John lost his breath at the site. Lacie kissed the tip of John and smiled again. She grabbed him again and ran her lips across him before sliding her mouth on him. John moaned again. She began moving her mouth on him and moving her tongue. John closed his eyes and enjoyed every second. She started kissing his stomach again. She still pulled at him while she kissed him. John rubbed her as well. She let out a gasp when he forced his finger in her. They kissed more as both moved their hands faster. Lacie could feel the pleasure building up inside her. The feeling of pure ecstasy filled her entire body. She let out a high pitch scream, squeezing John harder. John felt the adrenaline rushing in his body. He didn’t know how much longer he could last. Lacie’s soft skin pressed against him. He continued to rub her. She squirmed in his arms. John could feel the pleasure building in him. Lacie screamed in pleasure as her body went numb and tingly. John felt her get wetter. He grunted and let out a short scream. Lacie felt Johns release on her stomach. They kissed slowly as they held each other. Both John and Lacie were out of breath. John kissed her again. He turned off the water. Lacie held him close and kissed his chest. John smiled at her. "Come on baby, let’s go" John whispered moving her wet hair out of her eyes. They slowly got dressed, still kissing each other all over. John wrapped his arm around her waist. They saw Ashley waiting outside. "About time ya’ll finished" Ashley laughed. Lacie blushed. Ashley shook her head. "Come on we got to go" she said heading for the car. Once in the car, Lacie began confessing to John. "That was the first time I took a shower with anyone" she whispered running fingers on John’s hand. "That was my first one with anyone as well" he whispered back. She laid her head on his shoulder and continued. "No one’s ever done that to me, that’s my first time finishing" she whispered almost embarrassed. John held her closer. "I’m glad you were the first one to do it to me" he whispered back kissing her. Ashley watched them in the rear view mirror. Ashley almost slammed the brakes as she pulled into the restaurant. "Alright Lacie, better hurry. You just got a few minutes." Ashley shot back at them. "I’ll see you later John" she said kissing him for a few moments before climbing out the back seat. Ashley took a deep breath and asked John to sit up front. John quickly jumped between the two seats and buckled his seat belt. When they pulled back into the driveway, Ashley stared at John. "You know she really cares for you. She wouldn’t even do that with Chris. So please don’t do anything stupid to hurt her." Ashley explained in a caring voice. "You have my word Ashley. I care for her more than anything. I’ve never felt like this before" he explained. John couldn’t stop himself from smiling. "I asked her to be my girlfriend" he said excitedly. "She said yes” he said almost jumping in joy. "Come on lover boy, let’s get something to eat" she said getting out of the car. John sat in the car, replaying the shower in his head. He stepped out if the car and stretched. He smiled as he made his way inside.
Chris sat in anger after he saw John leave with the girls. Bradley lit a cigarette, wondering what bothered him. "What is your deal with him any way" Brad said taking a long drag. Chris just stared in space. "He took something that’s mine." Chris finally answered. Cody brushed his blonde hair out of his eyes. "Well just take it back" Cody said taking Bradley’s cigarette. "Oh trust, me Cody I will, and both of you are going to help me" Chris said lighting his own cigarette. The smoke quickly filled the car. Bradley shook his head. "And how are we going to do that" he asked. Chris shook his head and got out of the car. He slammed the door causing the whole car to rattle. Cody and Bradley sat in silence as Chris scavenged through the trunk. Cody flicked the cigarette out the window. "So what do you think his plan is this time for Lacie?" Bradley said watching Chris. Cody just shrugged. Chris tapped on Cody’s window. "I need you to help me with something Cody." Chris called from outside. Cody stepped out and walked with Chris. Bradley felt strange. Chris' voice echoed in his head. "Did he just have two voices?" He asked himself. Bradley sat in silence as Chris and Cody argued. Chris shook his head at Cody. "You know I can help you get who you want if you help me" Chris said holding a small object in his hand. Cody’s eyes widened thinking about who he wanted. Chris stepped to Bradley’s window and tapped on the glass. Bradley rolled the window down and waited. Chris handed him the keys and spoke with a stern voice. "Take the car and go ride by Ashley’s house to see if she’s there". Bradley started to worry. "You want me to stalk them?" he asked stepping out of the car. "If we all go, shell expect something; but if it’s just you it won’t be that bad." Chris said with his hands in his pockets. Bradley shook his head and got in the driver’s seat. "Fine" he snapped and drove off. Chris waited for Bradley to get out of sight before approaching Cody. "What are we going to do now" he asked trying to calm himself down. Chris stepped up to Cody, Chris' massive size blocked the sun on Cody. "Cody I need your complete focus, with no distraction, and for me to have that you must do something for me" Chris said in a deeper spilt voice. Cody felt his stomach turn. "What?" he blurted out in fear. Chris gripped the small object from his pocket. With a burst of energy, Chris grabbed Cody by the throat. Cody swung his hands at Chris stomach and chest. "Get off of me" Cody screamed sending a kick into Chris' side. Chris released his grip and stepped back in pain. Cody stepped away and braced himself. "What’s wrong with you man" Cody shouted. Chris headed for Cody again. Cody took off running towards the road. Chris caught him in a flash, grabbing him from behind. With a quick grunt Chris picked Cody high in the air and slammed him on his back. Cody wailed and gasped for air. Chris stepped on his chest and pinned him to the ground. Cody tried his best to kick off Chris' massive leg, still trying to catch his breath from the impact. Chris knelt down and grabbed Cody by the shirt. "Eat it!" Chris screamed shoving the object into Cody’s mouth. Chris kept his hand over Cody’s mouth as he kicked. The extreme coldness of the object sent Cody almost into shock. He gasped for air as Chris held him down. Chris watched the object make its way down Cody’s throat. Chris stepped off and laughed as Cody rolled around coughing, holding his neck. Cody tried his best to throw up the object, but he felt it sink into his stomach. He screamed and held his stomach. His skin started to feel cold. His eyes felt heavy and his muscles stiffened. He laid there shaking in fear. "What did you do to me?" Cody forced the words out. Chris knelt down next to him. "I made you better, no more distractions. We are now a lot alike Cody. Now get up." Chris demanded standing up. Cody took a deep breath and raised himself to his feet. He tried to fight the urge to obey Chris. Cody wanted to run but he couldn’t. It was like his brain wasn’t telling his legs to move. His thoughts slowed down. He no longer hated Chris for what he had done. He no longer thought about what Chris shoved down his throat, all he waited for was his next command. "Now we wait" Chris said sitting on the curb. Minutes passed in silence before Bradley pulled back up. Chris paced himself to the car, Cody followed shortly behind. "What did you see?" Chris asked leaning in the window. Bradley shook his head. "I saw Ashley’s car at her house but I didn’t see that guy there, and I think Lacie’s at work" Bradley answered turning down the radio. Chris opened the door. "Get in the back" Chris grunted to Bradley. Bradley climbed in the back over the seats, resting on a large duffle bag. Chris glared at Cody. "Get in" he demanded. Cody quickly climbed in the driver seat and sat in silence. "Not there you idiot" Chris barked. Cody made his way across the seats and buckled up in the passenger seat. Chris got in and drove off. John sat in silence while Ashley talked on the phone. He listened as she argued with who he thought was her mother. John shook his head as he heard the words boom from her mouth. He knew if he had spoken to his mother that way, she would have taught him a lesson. He thought she had no respect for her. John sighed as he remembered meeting Lacie’s father the previous day. He laid down thinking of Lacie. The experience in the showers seemed like a dream. Her touch was different than Ashley’s, it seemed more caring and innocent. John has made his mind on what he wanted to do. Lacie was the one he wanted. He closed his eyes and dreamed of the showers. He fell into a deep sleep of ecstasy. He felt Ashley’s presence near him some time later. He could feel her stares. John turned on the couch and saw her staring at him. "What really happened to you?" She asked in a quite tone. John sat up and stretched his neck. "A fire took my home, my mother and everything from me" he said trying not to let the memories flood his mind. "Is that where you got the scars?" She asked again staring at his leg. "Most of them, yeah. The others came from fights, coyotes and some I had for as long as I can remember" he said wiping his eyes. "Why’d you get in so many fights?" She asked. Her questions almost started to annoy John. "Being a homeless guy, a lot of people tried to take my pack or just wanted someone to kick the crap out of" he said remembering the attacks. "One guy even tried to kill me because he wanted to be in gang. He really got a rude of awakening when he pulled a knife on me." His voice grew quiet and soft. The memories of his life was something he wanted away from. "What you do?" She questioned. "Either it was me or him. I had to basically crush his face in to get his gang to leave." He answered. Ashley stared at him in amazement. "I just wanted to know a little more about you. You can go back to bed" she said slowly standing up. John laid his head down and tried to forget the past. His thoughts jumped back and forth to the fire and the fights. John awoke several hours later. He yawned and stretched as soon as Ashley walked in the room. "I was just about to go get Lacie. She’s off tomorrow and she was going to stay here tonight" Ashley told him, but her eyes kept focusing on other places rather than his eyes. "Alright let’s go" he said smiling. They both got in the car. As Ashley was backing up, John had an idea. "Since she’s off tomorrow I know a good spot to go swimming, if ya’ll want to go" John stated wiping his eyes. "Cool, I haven’t been swimming in a long time" she said smiling. John winked at her. Ashley blushed running her hands over her thigh. Ashley pulled up to a red light and heard a loud roar. John turned and saw the dark car behind them. "Not these guys again" John grunted. Ashley just shook her head. "Have they always been this clingy to ya’ll?" John asked keeping his eyes on them. Ashley sighed. "Yeah, plus I think they are trying to scare you" Ashley answered. John rolled down his window. "Well they suck at it then" he said resting his arm out the window. The moment the light changed, Ashley sped off. "They're starting to irritate me" Ashley said pulling into the parking lot. John looked at his watch. "It’s ten til" he stated. "Do you want to go inside?" He asked rolling his window up. "Sure" she said turning the car off. John stepped out and opened her door for her. "I’ll never get tired of that" Ashley said smiling climbing out of her car. John smiled as he headed for the door. A familiar noise echoed through the air. "Oh come on!" John almost shouted as he saw Chris pull up. Chris pulled quickly next to Ashley’s car. Cody stepped out first, looking around her car. Chris climbed out smiling. "Well how about that. I come here to pick up my girl, and there’s another guy here waiting for her. Now how is that supposed to make me feel?" Chris joked stepping up to John. "I think I hit you to hard" John said stepping in front of Ashley. "You’ve about lost your mind. I thought you learned your lesson from the last time I put you on the ground" John threatened. "Now calm down, you don’t have to get so angry." Chris said keeping an eye on the window behind John. Chris caught eyes with Lacie through the glass and smirked. Chris immediately shoved John back and swung. Chris' massive right hand slammed in the side of Johns head, knocking him into the door. John pushed himself off the door and jumped at Chris, sending his foot into Chris' gut. Lacie shoved herself through the door. "Stop it!" She screamed. John stepped back and watched Chris push himself to his feet. "You've caused so much trouble, John. Go back to your pathetic land and just die." Chris shouted loud enough for everyone to hear. John noticed all the people inside staring at them. "We should just go" John said softly grabbing the girls by the hands. Chris laughed and swung again. This time landing on the back of Johns head. John fell to his hands and kicked his feet over his head, flipping back on his feet. He slightly pushed the girls out of his way and charged Chris. He lunged forward, diving his head in Chris' stomach. He snapped straight up, causing the back if his head to collide with Chris' face. Using his own momentum, John jumped high and drove both of his feet in Chris' chest. They both hit the ground. John popped up and stepped back when he saw someone at the door. "Leave, or I’m calling the cops!" The woman screamed pointing at John. "Lacie I need to speak with you, now" she grunted at Lacie. Lacie shook her head holding back a tear as she followed the woman. Chris pulled himself off the ground and wiped the blood off his mouth, before rushing to his car. Cody climbed in the front seat as they sped off. "I’m getting sick of that guy!" John grunted holding the back of his head. Ashley stared at him in confusion. She was wondering if his voice actually did split, like she heard. Lacie came back out in tears. "What’s wrong" he asked, completely forgetting about the tremendous pain in his head. "They fired me" she cried. John stepped closer to hold her. Lacie quickly avoiding him. "What is with you and Chris?" She shouted. "Why do ya’ll hate each other?" Her voice began to crack with tears. "I don’t know" John shot back. "But somehow he knows a lot about me" John said lowering his voice. He rubbed the back of his head as the pain came back. Lacie saw his pain. "Are you ok?" Lacie asked in her soft caring voice. "Yeah, I’m fine" John said leaning against the wall. "He hits a lot harder than I thought" John said in a daze. The pain in his head arose more. "God that hurt”, he grunted sitting down. Ashley and Lacie were both by his side when he opened his eyes. "I think he gave you a concussion" Ashley said watching John’s eyes. John covered his eyes with his hands when he felt them become cold. "Alright let’s get out of here" Ashley said pulling John to his feet. John stood up and stretched. "Alright ill drive" John said rubbing his head. Lacie grabbed his arm and placed a hand over his head. She felt the knot rising on his head. "You might have a concussion, you’re not driving" she said wrapping his arm around her waist. "Then you drive" John said smiling, walking to the car with Lacie. "I can’t drive a stick" Lacie said almost embarrassed. Ashley got in the car and started the engine. John opened the door and climbed in after Lacie. "I’m sorry for what happened" Lacie whispered laying her head on John’s chest. John held her close and kissed her head. "Ya’ll two need a room?" Ashley laughed as she drove off. John couldn’t believe how soft Lacie’s skin was to him. He ran his fingers on her hand and down her arms. "You have the softest perfect skin" he whispered, rubbing the back of her neck. Lacie smiled and kissed him. She traced John’s veins down his arms. She passed dozens of the large scars that cover his arms. "What happened?" She asked quietly tracing a scar on his fore arm. John sighed as he remembered. "Most of them are from the fire, but a lot is from wild animals and just looking for food" he answered holding her closer. "When was the last time you’ve been to the doctor?" She asked feeling his arm where skin had been ripped. John just shook his head. "I don’t think I’ve ever been" he answered. "Even when your mom was alive?" She knew that was a hard topic for him. "She didn’t believe in modern medicines. She thought that natural remedies and praying solved almost everything, and it did" John said smiling thinking about his mother. "Well I thank God I found you" Lacie said pulling herself closer to John. Ashley slowed to a stop at Lacie’s home. "Is your dad still here" John asked getting out of the car. "Yeah, he don’t leave until next week." She said taking his hand and pulling herself out of the seat. "Are you going to tell him what happened?" John asked walking her to the door. Lacie shook her head. "I have to" she said in a low voice. Her father opened the door the moment they stepped on the porch. "Good evening sir" John greeted in a strong voice. John held out his hand. "Good evening" his voice boomed. Her father gripped Johns hand with the same force as before. "You ok honey?" He asked noticing Lacie’s teary eyes. "I got fired" Lacie said holding back tears. "What happened?" he asked in anger glaring at John. "Chris showed up again and attacked John. A whole bunch of people saw, and they said I should leave my problems elsewhere" Lacie explained holding Johns hand. Her father crossed his massive arms and stared into Johns eyes. "You know Mr. Geared, you and Chris have had a lot of confrontations over the past few days. Why is that?" He asked stepping out of the door way. John placed his hands behind his back and spoke at parade rest. "I’m not completely sure why he has issues with me, sir. I believe he hasn’t accepted the fact that your daughter doesn’t want to be with him anymore sir" John answered. Her father just nodded. "So John, what do you do for a living?" He asked. John could tell he had an interest in him. "Well sir, as of right now I’m currently not employed, nor occupying a residence" John stated trying to sound confident. "Nor occupying a residence? What does that mean?" the man asked. "I do not have a home to go back to anymore sir" John knew he didn’t sound as strong as before. "I’m sorry to hear that John, but I got to have a talk with my daughter now, so you can go back to where you were before." The man said opening the door. "Sir, one more thing if I may" John blurted out. "What is it?" Lacie’s father asked. "I was wondering if I could take Lacie out tomorrow. We will be behind the Frostiest Burgers on 78 near Jasper, there’s a swimming area there." John explained. John could tell that he was thinking about it. "Sure" he grunted with almost a smile. "Yes sir, I’ll be here right before lunch tomorrow" John exclaimed. John held out his hand and waited for her father. Her father reached out and grabbed John’s hand. John squeezed his hand and smirked. The man felt a freezing feeling in his arm, flood to his head. "Have a good day sir" John smirked. Her father watched him in confusion as made his way to the car. "Lacie, could I speak with you for a moment?" He asked shutting the door. He tried to shake the cold feeling out of his hand. Lacie came back into the living room and sat on the couch. Her father sat in the chair next to her. "Now that boy asked if you could go swimming with him and Ashley tomorrow" he said rubbing his hands together. Lacie felt her face burn with embarrassment. "I told him that’s fine. For some odd reason, I like this boy" he said with an almost smile. Lacie smiled. "Yeah, he has that effect on people." She said remembering what Lacie told her. Her father cracked his knuckles and spoke with a low voice. "He'll be here around noon to pick you up" Lacie almost jumped with joy. "Now you have to promise me that you’ll be safe and not anything stupid that could hurt you" he said sounding firm. "I promise daddy" she said hugging him. She rushed to her room and began to write in her journal. The picture of John still light up her phone. She couldn’t wait to be with him again. The moon rose over Lacie’s window as she laid her head down. John watched the moon glow in the sky as he walked the wood lines around Ashley’s house. He could still hear Ashley screaming at her mother. He didn’t want to be anywhere near the fight. He laid his pack down and sat next to a tree. He took a big drink from his canteen. The ground was nothing compared to the couch he had the night before, but the shower and shave with clean clothes still felt like a blessing. He enrolled his sleeping bag and laid his head on the sack, just like he did a few days before. He closed his eyes and prayed. He couldn’t stop thinking of Lacie. He dreamed of her again. John awoke when he felt pressure around his arm. A tightening pain strained in his arm. He took breath and slowly pulled his arm from the sleeping bag. Immediately, it felt heavier. "Not again" he whispered. He waited for the snake to move just a little more before grabbing underneath the jaw in a flash. The green snake hissed and squirmed. "You're lucky I don’t eat you" he said pulling the snake off his arm and wrapped it around a large branch. He packed his things and made his way back to Ashley’s house. He knocked on the door and waited. Ashley opened the door still half asleep. "Morning" John smiled. Ashley mumbled under her breath. John smirked as he sat down. "Not much of a morning person" he said to himself. He waited until she came back with a small bag. "Here's one of my brothers trunks. You can pull the string out if you want" she said tossing him a pair of shorts. John smirked and went to the back to change. He came back pulling out the string. Ashley was on the phone with Lacie. "I can’t believe he let you go. He's always been so strict when it came to boys. Plus isn’t he about to leave for two weeks?" Ashley said without noticing him. "Alright he’s ready. We're on our way" she continued and hung up the phone. "You ready?" She asked. "Oh yeah" he explained. He opened the passenger door and waited for Ashley to buckle the seat belt before jumping over the hood and into the driver side window. "Why’d you dive through the window" Ashley laughed. "It was faster" John chuckled spinning the tires in the gravel. "You don’t always have to spin out like that" Ashley almost laughed. John just laughed as the smoke cleared behind him. When John pulled into Lacie’s driveway, he quickly got out. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door. "One moment" a voice boomed back. John waited nervously for several moments before the door swung open. Lacie’s father stepped in the door way. "Good morning sir" John greeted with a strong voice. "Morning" he answered back. "Lacie’s getting ready. How long will you be out?" her father asked in a serious tone. "Just a few hours" John answered quickly. "Alright don’t be too late" her father said stepping aside. Lacie quickly stepped out and smiled at John. "Good morning beautiful" John said smiling back. Lacie blushed and stepped outside. John could feel the protective stare of her father. "Have a good day sir" John said nodding to the man. He just quickly shut the door behind him. "Wow that’s the first" Lacie almost laughed. "Why is that?" John asked taking her hand. Lacie felt his cold hands and almost lost her breath. "Usually he would have threatened you" she said in a soft voice, rubbing John’s hand. "Come on let’s get going" John flirted. They took off to the car. Ashley climbed in the back seat and waited. John opened the passenger door for Lacie. He shut the door behind her and stepped a few steps back. He smiled at Lacie and pulled on his shorts. With a quick rush John dove, landing his hands on the hood. He kicked off and flipped over the hood, landing on his feet. With the same momentum, he jumped again; sending his feet through the open window, landing safely in the seat. He cranked the car and grinned at Lacie. "Show off" Ashley smirked behind him. Lacie just laughed as she ran her fingers down John’s arms as he drove away. John stopped at a red light and cracked his neck. "So how did you find this swimming spot" Lacie asked staring into John’s eyes. She still couldn’t understand how she felt so strongly towards him. Every single touch sends chills and butterflies. She couldn’t stop thinking of him. She felt like she was obsessed with him, and she loved that. John kissed her hand and smiled. "I stumbled on it one day. I saw someone jumping off the cliff part. I thought he was committing suicide, turns out he was a dare devil" he explained. "It has a small drop about a few feet. It also has a rocky cliff with two spot to dive, ones about ten feet and the others about thirty." He continued as he turned down a gravel road. John drove for several minutes before stopping the car under a large tree. “Let’s go” he laughed. He opened the door and pulled off his shirt. Lacie stared at him still in amazement. She could not get over how he looked. The girls followed him to a small edge. “So who’s jumping first” John asked with a laughing, turning to face the girls. He could feel the wind off the water blow in to his back. Ashley leaned closer and saw the drop to the water. “How far is that?” she asked almost scared. “About ten feet” John answered with a smile. Ashley and Lacie just smiled at each other. “Fine, I guess I will” John stated kicking the dirt out from under his feet. He threw his arms back and jumped with ease backwards. John flipped back with quickness and splashed into the water. He broke through the waters surface and laughed. “Come on in” he called to them. Lacie watched him swim a little more out. “It’s not that far” Lacie said thinking of John. She took off with a little run. She pounced on the edge and jumped. She could see the water grow closer to her before flipping forward. The cold water splashed around her. She could hear John cheering for her as she made her way to the surface. “That’s my girl” John screamed in excitement. Ashley just shook her head and stepped to the edge. She could see Lacie and John kissing off in the distance. “Screw it” she said before jumping in herself. She swam to the couple and splashed Lacie. Lacie splashed her back playfully. Ashley glared at Lacie as she splashed her once again. Lacie could feel the jealousy. She knew that Ashley liked John as well. John watched the girls as they played around. “Ya’ll want to see the thirty foot drop?” he asked breaking the tension between the girls. They both looked at him. Lacie felt a little intimidated about such heights. The moment John started to swim to another cliff, she saw the mountain side. The rocky side glittered in the sun light. John smiled as he stared at the top of the cliff. “Have you ever jumped it?” Lacie asked rubbing her feet down John’s legs as she floated next to him. “Not yet, there’s a few small spots I jumped under the top but I never actually sailed that one” John laughed, hiding the small fear that rested in his stomach. Ashley smirked, noticing how John felt. “But with you” John said kissing Lacie. “I can do anything” he said kissing her again. Ashley felt unconfutable watching the couple kiss in front of them. “How many flips do you think you can do off of it?” Ashley asked breaking the connection between them. “Hmm” John thought staring at the cliff. “Let’s see. Thirty feet, I’m five foot six. My curl ball is about two and a half feet. My jump speed and the fall of gravity gives me about ten seconds of controlled fall.” John calculated. “I bet I could get about eight or nine in, but the landing would be the worst part” John laughed a little. “That would be sexy” Lacie blurted out without thinking. John immediately shot his eyes at Lacie. Seeing her so close in her tight fitting light blue bikini, made John feel almost invincible. “In that case” John said swimming closer to her, letting his chest rub against hers. “I think I could do more” he grinned at her. Lacie kissed him again. John sped off to the end of the cliff. He grabbed a large rock and pulled himself out of the water. At each grab and pull, he could feel the water lower below him. “Yay” Lacie shouted. “Come on John” Ashley shouted up to him. John knew the girls were watching every move he makes. “Oh God, what did I just get myself into?” he asked himself. John took a deep breath and pulled himself higher. He saw the edge of the cliff high above him. He looked down and saw the distance between him and the water. “Jesus Christ. How far is this thing?” he grunted pulling himself higher. The climb felt a lot higher than thirty feet to John. He took another deep breath and swung his hand on the top of the edge. “Oh thank you God” he prayed as he pulled himself to the flat land. He stood up and leaned over the edge. “Holy crap, that’s a lot higher than I thought” he said to himself. He knew that Lacie was watching him and waiting. “Jump!” Ashley called up to him. John sighed heavily and took a few steps back. The fear of the massive fall flooded his mind and heart. “God this is stupid” he told himself. “Come on sexy” Lacie screamed up to him. John immediately thought of his new girlfriend. “Better watch out” John called back to them. John took a deep breath and popped his back. “Screw it” he grunted and took off running. He pounced on the edge and jumped with a short grunt. Once off the ground, he curled in his legs and grabbed his knees. He slammed his head forward and felt his body began to flip. His speed almost knocked his breath out. With each blink, he saw the water rotate around him. He had no idea how many times he flipped, but he knew the water was closing in on him fast. “Crap” he grunted as he saw the water. He crashed in the waters with a high impact. The pressure of the impact sent John deep into the water. Ashley and Lacie watched John as he sank into the deep waters. Lacie just stared at the water, waiting for the break of the surface. She was scared that he could be serious hurt. Moments passed as both Ashley and Lacie wait in fear. John quickly busted through the surface and shook his head. He wiped his face off and started laughing. “Wow that kind of hurt, but such a rush” he said laughing. John felt high off of the adrenaline. Lacie cheered for him as she swam towards him. “How many did I do?” he asked still a little dizzy. “I lost count, but it was a lot.” She said so happy he was safe. She hugged him and didn’t want to let go. “Wow I’m amazed you actually did it” Ashley laughed trying not to sound mean. John just laughed again. He could tell that she didn’t believe in him as much as Lacie did. “Ok no more life threatening stunts for today. I about had a heart attack when you hit.” Lacie explained holding John close to her. John, still trying to catch his breath, agreed. They swam back to the first point. John felt blessed to have the company of his new girlfriend and another. Having others with him made him feel nervous at times. He didn’t want them to know his secrete. As the cold waters surrounded him, he felt his hands grow even colder. Hours passed as they played and jumped. “Alright, I think it’s about time to leave” Ashley stated catching John and Lacie kissing under a small rock of the cliff. “Yeah” John mumbled, not wanting to leave the arms of Lacie. They slowly made their way to the car and dried off. John started the car and drove off. The drive was quick has the music played. He pulled into Lacie’s driveway and quickly got out to open her door. He helped her out, but the sight of her still wet skin glowing in the evening sun made his heart pound. “I’ll walk you to the door” he had to force the words from his lungs. She still takes his breath. John couldn’t focus. His thoughts and eyes were focused on the girl wearing a light blue bikini in his arms. John took her hand in began walking to the door. “Your hands are freezing” she whispered almost laughing. “Maybe I can warm them up later” she whispered seductively. John grinned, trying his best to seem sexy instead of nervous. He knocked on the front door and waited. Lacie quickly kissed him on the cheek then on the lips. John took a deep breath and tried not to seem too excited. Her father opened the door. “Good evening sir” John stated with a stern voice. “We are back from the swimming hole” he continued, still keeping his composure. Her father just nodded. “Now John, I will be gone for two weeks and I’m leaving Friday. Now she will be here by herself. How can I trust you not to do anything stupid?” he said with crossing his arms. John almost felt threatened by the massive man. “Sir, I can assure you that my actions will be strictly modest and controlled. Since it will be for two weeks; I’m assuming for your annual training for the National Guard; I want to have your permission to see her. We will be with Ashley and always in a public place, always in others eyes” John’s request scared Lacie. They both waited for the answer. The man cracked his neck and spoke with a voice that shocked Lacie. “Alright, since you are being a man about it and actually asking my permission; I’ll have her call me every time you show up. I’ll speak with you and you will tell me everything you have planned for my daughter” his voice boomed. “Roger that sir” John answered remembering what the soldier had taught him the previous year. Her father just nodded his head and stepped out of the door way to let Lacie in. Lacie secretly ran her fingers over John’s shorts as she stepped inside. John didn’t know if her father saw or what would happen next. “I’ll see you again tomorrow” Lacie grinned and winked at John as the door slammed behind her. John stood on the porch, stunned. “Wow” he whispered to himself walking back to the car. “What he say?” Ashley asked as he climbed in the driver seat. “He told me that if we see each other when he’s gone; she will call him and I have to tell him what we are doing that day” John said a little surprised. Ashley just stared at him. “Are you actually going to do that?” she asked confused. “Oh yeah, I gave him my word” he said driving off. When John pulled into Ashley’s driveway, he saw two other cars. “Who’s here” John asked a little worried. “It’s my mom and brother” Ashley answered rushing out the car. “You might want to leave. It might get ugly” she said hurrying to the front door. John sighed and pulled his ruck out of the trunk and headed for the woods. Chris stared at his computer screen and scanned through the words on the screen. The smoke from his cigarette filled the small room. He felt the cold feeling in his hands rush up his arms. He typed on more on the computer and printed another page. The old printer almost echoed in the silence. He took the page and tacked it to the wooden wall. Old pages covered most of the walls. Drawings and research papers filled the desk around. He took a long drag from his cigarette and stared at the picture above his computer. The small fire balls hovered over a small town. “That night in Japan was something that should have never happened” he said to himself taking another drag. “This world has no idea what those things released on this slowly rotting rock” he said feeling the anger of the past boiling in his heart. “Now I have to take all of those pathetic creatures and burn them alive” he grunted thinking of what he knew about the others. The night over Japan burned in his mind. “I can’t believe these people were too interested on the sphericals other than the disgusting creatures who hit the water” Chris said to himself. “But, it’s best to have more finger prints at the scene” he almost laughed. He pulled his phone from his pocket and called the last number. “Cody, I need you to come over. I need you to help me with something” Chris almost demanded. “Alright” Cody quickly agreed and hung up. Chris leaned back in his chair and took another long drag before crushing the cigarette in a small ashtray. He reread the pages on the screen and waited. He sat in silence, reading over all the stories. Almost an hour passed when he heard a knock on the small door. “Open” he called from his computer chair. Cody and Brad walked in and sat on the seat from an old car. “Alright man, what was so important that you had to get us here” Brad started complaining. He couldn’t forget how they acted the day at the park. He knew Chris might be up to something. “Hold up, before you answer that. What’s with all the stuff about The Fireballs over Japan?” he asked remembering the stories he heard growing up. “That’s why I need your help” Chris answered almost smiling. “There was something in those lights, but the main thing was what came out of them before they left. Now, over twenty years ago, those things scared half the world but no one knows what they were here for” Chris explained. Cody sat and listened quietly. Brad, however, felt like Chris has lost his mind. “Have you lost your mind?” Brad almost screamed. Cody still sat in silence. Chris just ignored Brad’s outburst. “The reason these things burned in the atmosphere, is because of their origin. They came from a much colder freezing place. The materials was such a weak material but it was extremely light. That’s why there was nothing left” Chris explained not paying attention to Brad’s complaints. “Some of the occupants are still here, which causes a problem for the entire human race. I have located one of them; and he is just right here” Chris said turning to face Brad and Cody. “What you mean that John guy?” Brad asked. “Exactly” Chris grinned. “So you think John is an alien and you want us to get rid of him?” Brad argued. Chris just sat and stared at Brad. “This is nuts. You can help him, but I’m not” Brad exclaimed, pointing at Cody. “I’m not getting my hands dirty for this.” Brad exclaimed heading for the door. “I could use your help” Chris called. “Screw you” Brad screamed slamming the door behind him. Chris just shook his head. “Now that he’s gone, here’s what happened.” Chris quietly explained leaning closer to Cody. “Now back in the early 1990’s, these lights floated over the islands of Japan. They came from a place of pure war. They were the last of their kind. However, it is their own fault. The leaders of these vessels were something of royalty. They broke down the walls that kept the beasts from demolishing their world. Wars broke out for years as they hid in the darkness. They left for protection. They wanted to be as far away as possible. They were scared, now one of those cowards are living amongst us. You don’t want one of them try to tear this world apart like they did their own; do you Cody?” Chris asked, letting his eyes fade to their true dark grey. “No” Cody answered in a soft tone. Chris smirked as he felt the cold fill Cody’s mind. “Good. These people are infused with an element known as carbon lothium. It is the main element of Ori-Thione. Since it is an extremely low temperature based element, fire will be the best way to neutralize the enemy” Chris explained the truth to his new servant. “I’ve been hunting this particular one for years. I found him last year and neutralized his life giver, but he escaped. He is not the last one of his kind. There is one more but, we will worry about that one later. Are you ready for this?” Chris asked lighting another cigarette. Cody just nodded in silence. Chris took a long drag. “We will have to separate him from the girls. The best way to do that will be to separate the girls. Now their only form of transportation is Ashley’s car. If we can get rid of the car they will be very limited.” Chris’ voice sounded like twisted metal. Cody’s eyes bounced around on the hanging pictures. “If you get the car to me without any issues, I can dispose of it properly. You know what to do?” he asked letting the smoke fill the room again. Cody nodded again. “Go watch them and plan the perfect time to take it” Chris demanded. Cody shot up and quickly busted through the door. Chris just shook his head as the door slammed. “I hope he doesn’t screw this up” Chris said to himself. John took a deep breath as he watched the stars above him. The night winds whistled through the woods. He felt the fires heat in front of him. A small crack of a limb caught his attention. He waited for the movement again. Another crack echoed in the air. He gripped his machete and slowly stood up. With each step, he took his time. He watched the large squirrel jump from tree to tree. John took another deep breath and let the cold winds blow around him. He felt his heart pound as he came closer. The darkness surrounded all around him. He smirked and focused his eyes. His light blue eyes faded into the bright white. The feeling of being alone made it easier to hunt. The darkness hid him from his prey as he stepped closer. His skin grew into a light blue, almost blending him into the night. He grabbed a thick branch under the squirrel and waited. He felt his head grow colder. His short hair slowly froze. The ice shards formed light blue spikes over his scalp. He saw the glow in the eyes of his prey. He knew his time would be soon. He squeezed the branch and shook it. The squirrel jumped off the branch. John swung his machete without a sound. When he felt the blade slow down, he knew what had happened. He smiled when he saw the squirrel’s body. He grabbed the animal and walked back to the fire. John sat down and pulled the skin from the little animal. He thought to himself as he watched the blood run off his hands. The sight of blood used to scare him and the death of any animal haunted him. He sighed as he forced a stick through the body and laid it in the fire. “What have I done?” he asked himself. “I can’t believe this happened. I spent the past twenty of these years without any one but my life giver, now I have a girlfriend.” John said to himself in almost anger. He sighed as he turned the meat over in the fire. “How am I supposed to have a relationship with someone if I can’t even be my true self?” he asked himself thinking about Lacie. “What am I supposed to tell her? ‘Oh yeah, Lacie I’m an alien. I’m from Pluto’. Yeah that’ll end well. God I’m so stupid. For Christ sake, I’d rather be like this then have to hide.” He said looking at his blue skin. He watch the meat blacken in the fire. He pulled the stick out and blew on the meat. “I should have stayed away that day, at least I wouldn’t have to lie” he took a deep and took a bite of the meat. He shook his head as he chew. “God I hate squirrel” he sighed. He took another bite and stared at the stars. He finished eating the small animal and stood up to stretch. He took a long deep breath and clenched his fists. “I guess tonight is more of a work out night” he said aloud watching the fire crackle in front of him. He began swinging his fists, stretching his shoulders. “Let’s start slow” he said popping his neck. He leaned close to the ground and rested his knees on his elbows. He tilted forward and balanced his weight on his hands. He took several breaths, clearing his mind. He slowly pushed up, still balancing on his hands until he was completely upside down. He took a few steps on his hands and began to lower his body closer to the ground. He touched the tip of his nose to the dirt before pushing himself off the ground with a short grunt. He landed back on his hands and walked around his small fire on his hands. John knew that he must stay strong for him to survive. He arched his back and allowed his feet to hit the ground. He began to step closer to his feet. He felt his back pop several times as he almost folded himself in half. He stopped when he felt his boots touch the tips of his fingers. He grunted as he raised himself back to his feet. He leaned forward and grabbed the top of his boots. “Ooh that feels good” he grunted feeling his spine stretch. “Alright, time for a little faster pace” he said standing up again. He threw his arms down by his side and jumped back. He immediately felt his feet swing over his head. Within a blink he landed back on his feet. He took another deep breath and jumped back again. The instant his feet hit the ground he jumped again. He flipped back several times before stopping himself. He took off in a quick run. He pounced forward and jumped. He flipped forward and landed and his feet. He swung his right foot out beside him with enough force to dig into the rough soil. He grunted and jumped high in the air. He swung his foot again in midair, turning his whole body with brute force. He hit the ground, landing on his hands and feet. John kicked off again, keeping his hands on the ground, spinning his feet over him. He pushed off and took off running. He grunted as he swung his forearm at a large tree branch. A loud crack echoed through the woods as the branch bounced on the ground. He stared at the tree. The anger started to fill his blood. He felt his skin grow colder as he thought about the death of his mother. He screamed again swinging at another branch. The branch broke causing leaves to fall over John. He tried to control his breathing, but the anger flooded him again. With a burst of pure adrenaline, he took two fast steps up the tree and flipped off. He threw his foot back, high over his head. The heel of his boot collided with a small dead tree. His force knocked the tree from its roots and sent it bouncing. His breaths became short and he almost growled under his breath. He looked at his light blue hands and saw the scars. He ran his hands through his frozen hair. The sharp shards scratched his palms. The points of his teeth almost showed through his blue lips. “How can I have such a beautiful girl, when I’m the monster that hides in the darkness of the woods” his voice was made of dozens of sounds. “These people are fearful” he grunted. His voice sounded like metal twisting and tearing. “How could I ever be accepted? By controlling her feelings? By always hiding?” he felt his anger turn into sorrow. “I can’t do this to her” he said softly, letting his voice change back to normal. He dropped to his knees and almost cried. He concentrated and changed his skin back. His hair almost melted, fading back to the light blonde as before. A tear fell from his face as he sobbed in silence. “I can’t do this to her” he said again, holding back more tears. “I have to leave. I don’t want to hurt her” he cried. “There is no way for us to be happy if I have to hide myself” he felt more tears fall on his chest. “If I leave I know she will be devastated, but if I stay…” he thought about what would happen if he stayed. “I can’t hide forever” he sobbed. “Once winter hits, I won’t be able to control myself.” John no longer could control his cries. “I’ll eventually turn” he sobbed. He saw his hands grow light blue. “I’m a monster” he screamed, pounding his fists on the ground. The pain and fear over whelmed him. John rolled over and cried. “Why am I here?” he gasped. “Why am I here mother” he screamed. “Why did we come here? You knew I would never be able to be free here!” he screamed again at the skies above him. “Now you and father are both gone, just when I need you.” He felt the anger rush back to him. “You knew that there was a Lye-Theen here” he shouted. “You knew, and you never told me!” he cried. “I could have protected you more. I could have stopped him!” he screamed in anger. He cried again, laying on the dirt. “I could have saved you. I should have saved you” he cried to himself. The crackle of the fire almost soothed him. He watched the fire. He got up and sat close to it. The heat of the flames warmed him. He slowly raised his hand over the flames. The felt the extreme heat. He concentrated. His skin faded back to the light blue. His hair froze back into the spikes. He smirked as he lowered his hand. The heat was almost unbearable. He focused hard on the flames and on his own hand. The flames began to jump more frequently as he lowered his hand. A thin layer of dust covered his palm. "Carbon lothium has no melting point" he smirked again lowering his hand deeper in the fire. The flames danced above his hand. He clenched his fist and felt the flames The flames almost felt cool. He slowly waved his hand in the flames, watching the flames bounce around. He felt his heart pound as the flames jumped around his hand. At each movement, the flames jumped the same way. He waved his hand a little after and saw the fire quickly race from his hand. He concentrated harder and moved his hand quicker. He felt the fire was under his control. He laughed to himself. He waved his hand faster. With a short grunt, he swung his fist out of the fire. The intense focus left him breathless and tired. A small crackle echoed behind him. He turned and saw a small flame burning a pile of leaves. He got up and rushed to the small fire. He raised his foot to stomp it out, but stopped. He lowered his hand over the small flames and focused again. His hands tightened over the fire. He felt the fire and its light pressure. He cupped his hands over the flames and stood up. He concentrated on the pressure in his hands. He felt the heat in his palms. His heart pounded, his ears began to ring. John felt like he couldn't breath, but he still focused on the fires in his hands. The dust in his palms thickened. He felt weak. With the last bit his his energy, he thrusted his palms forward. The flames formed a dense ball as he shot it from his palms. The heat from his hands shot up to his arms. He hit the ground in pain. The heat shooting through his arms and chest, made it harder to breath. He cringed on the ground staring at the fire. "Focus" he grunted. He took a deep breath and focused on the cold blood running through his veins. His breathing slowed as he watched the fire. His hands began to cool down. "The element of fire" he mumbled, as he pulled himself to his feet. "Is just like the lotium fumes" he almost gasped. "It can be controlled" he grinned in pain. John enjoyed the extreme difference in the new fires and the element of ice he grew so accustomed to. He laid down on the dirt and watched the stars sparkle in the clear night sky. The feeling of the fire burned into his mind. He dreamed of the fire and of his ice. He wondered how he could mix the two strongest elements he has ever experienced. John slept with the image of a frozen fire. A light thunder roll shook John out of his slumber. Heavy rains began to pour over him. John sighed as he saw the smothered soot from his fire the night before. He stretched and popped his back. His palms still felt a little burnt from the fire. He smiled as he stared at his blue hands. "So much power I could do here" he said to himself. "Maybe this was your plan mother" he whispered staring into the clouds. "You always told me that I was special and I had so much power" John said feeling better about himself. He clenched his fist and watched his skin fade back to his normal color. He picked up his sack and headed back to Ashley's house, hoping that nothing has changed since the night before. He hiked through the woods, ignoring the pouring rains. John pushed his way out of the wood lines. He looked around the neighborhood. When he got closer to Ashley's house, John noticed that there was no one there. He looked around in confusion. He quietly stepped on the porch, and listened carefully. He heard nothing from the inside. "Where is she?" he asked himself. He took a deep breath and knocked on the door. He waited for an answer. "I guess I'll try Lacies" he grunted jumping off the porch. He began walking down the road, replaying the previous day in his head. He wondered why Ashley never told him what she was doing. He wondered if Lacie was ok. Cars sped past him. He didn't pay attention to the on coming traffic. None of the cars sounded familiar to John. He shook his head and pulled his canteen from the side pouch. He shook it in disbelief when he felt the emptiness. He drank the last little bit before shoving it back into its pocket. "Where are you" John said looking all around. John continued down the road. He took a deep breath when he saw the red light. The rain weighed down his pack on his back. "It felt good not walking around every where" he said to himself. His boots splashed through the puddles in the pavement. John saw Lacie's house from the main road. He knelt down and watched. He saw Ashley's car and a military Hummer. "That must deal with her father" he whispered to himself. John quietly moved closer through the woods, almost low crawling. He kept watch on the hummer. John crawled closer. He concentrated on their voices. His ears started to stretch back into a point. He could hear very word they spoke. "I have to leave early. I got to pick up Specialist Lawhorn" her fathers words lost echoed around him. The man hugged Lacie and got into the hummer. The loud engine almost made John cringe as the diesel engine roared. The hummer drove off, leaving a thick cloud of dust behind it. John waited until he saw both Ashley and Lacie go inside. "Time to roll" John smirked to himself. He stood up and jogged closer. The sounds of his feet hitting the ground boomed in his ears. "Oh crap" he mumbled forgetting about his ears. He focused and receded his ears to normal. "That would could have been bad" he joked to himself as he climbed the stairs. He took a deep breath and made sure he was completely what he thought was normal. He cracked his neck and knocked on the door. He heard a short rustle before Ashley opened the door. "Good morning" John said smiling. Ashley just smiled and stepped back inside. "Good morning Lacie" John greeted with a wink. Lacie smiled and hugged him tight. His skin felt so cold. "How are you so cold? It's like eighty degrees outside" Lacie asked still holding him. "I'm just cold nature, I guess" John answered thinking about the previous night. "So what you want to do today? My dad's gone for about two weeks and I'll be here all by myself." Lacie grinned and winked at John. John felt his heart immediately pound in his chest. He had to force his words from his chest. "How about we just chill here. I spent all night laying on the ground thinking of you. How about i spend all day holding you. Maybe a movie. Plus, I'm soaking wet" John's voice sent chills down Lacie's spine. "That would be amazing" she answered in a sweet voice. They stared into each others eyes. John felt his eyes grow colder. He blinked quickly. His eyes changed into the bright white in between the blinks but quickly changed back to the light blue. Lacie's sweet smile faded into a look of confusion. "What's wrong?" John asked hoping she didn't see the change. "I never knew how blue your eyes were. You know blue is my favorite color." she said with a soft voice. She kissed him and held him close. "Okay I'm just going to leave you two love birds alone." Ashley said, breaking the silence in the room. Ashley took her keys and left. John heard her cussing to herself as she drove off. "So what you want to do first" Lacie asked pulling him down on the couch. John smiled, thinking of them being alone. "First, how about I change" John smirked pulling off his shirt. He began digging through his pack for another shirt. Lacie watched the muscles on his back and arms tense as he moved through his pack. She could barely breath with the sight of John with out a shirt. Her heart pounded in her chest. John quickly pulled on a sleeveless shirt. He smirked when he saw Lacie biting her bottom lip. "What's the matter?" he smirked leaning closer to her. "Nothing" Lacie blushed as she ran her fingers down John's arm. "Why are you always so cold?" she asked scooting closer under his arm. "My skin is always cold. It has something to do with my blood flow" he answered quickly thinking of any excuse. "I saw nothing wrong with your blood flow big boy" she said climbing in his lap, kissing him. Her soft lips took his breath away like it has done several times before. Lacie kissed John and bit his lip. He moved her on his hips and held her tight. Lacie slowly pulled away, breathing heavily. "Ok" she gasped. "I got to cool down before I burn a hole in my panties" she smiled. Lacie immediately blushed once she realized what she said. John just laughed to himself. "God, you're beautiful" John smiled. Lacie blushed again and laid her head on his chest. She could hear his heart pound behind his hard chest. She listened to it carefully. "You know, your heart is irregular?" she asked sliding off of his lap. John sat up and forced a smile. "That's what I mean about my blood flow" John answered. Lacie took a deep breath and kissed his neck. "So what do you do for hobbies?" she asked cheerfully. John smiled and shook his head. "You wouldn't like it. It's kind of silly" he said almost embarrassed. "Oh come on, John. Tell me" she was so excited to hear more about her new boyfriend. John smirked and sat up. "I like to do magic tricks" he mumbled enough for her to still hear him. Lacie almost jumped with joy. "I want to see one" she demanded so happily. "Ok baby" John said kissing her. He saw her cheeks blush. John pulled two rubber bands off of his watched and wrapped them around his thumbs and forefingers. "Now these are just plain old rubber bands, nothing special" he said stretching the bands. "There is no way for them to separate" he explained pulling at them. John smiled at Lacie, felling his fingers slip around the back band. "But if I rub them together fast enough," he explained rubbing the bands against each other. "I can snap them apart" he said quickly pulling the bands apart, making a popping sound as it snapped off of his finger. "How'd you do that?" Lacie exclaimed excitedly. John just smiled as he wrapped the bands around his watch. He listened to the heavy rain pour over the small home. "You want to see another trick I've been working on?" he asked leaning closer to Lacie. "Yes I do" she whispered, kissing him. John got up and headed for the kitchen. He took a handful of ice and opened the front door. "Now, I just have a handful of ice" he said opening his hands. Lacie just stared at John in amazement, John raised his hans outside, letting the cold rain cover his hands and arms. "Matter can not be made nor destroyed; just altered. Ice is just compressed water due to extremely low temperatures" John explained. "So in that theory, if you compress more water into it" he grunted, squeezing his hands together; "ice will form with it" He smiled. opening his hands. He tossed the ice and caught it again. John smiled and handed the ice to Lacie. She rolled the ice in her hands. She was to amazed by the perfectly smooth sides to feel the freezing ice. "It's a perfect ball" she whispered in amazement. John took the ice ball, letting his hands rub against hers; as before. He gripped the ball tightly and began grinding his palms into it. "The matter can be changed to the point of what seems to be destroyed" John explained more as he continued grinding his hands. He stepped outside and blew hard in his hands. A light white powder clouded from his palms. John smiled as he stepped back inside, dusting off the frost from his hands on his jeans. "You just turned an ice ball into snow" Lacie questioned, almost scared. "how did you do that?" Lacie asked completely confused. "I've never seen. anything like that one before" she continued eagerly. "ill show you one day" John answered pulling the door closed. "So what do you want to do?" John asked wrapping his arms around Lacie's waist. She smiled at him and kissed him again. John slowly raised his hands up Lacie's back. She almost jumped, feeling his cold fingers press into her back. Lacie pulled herself on to Johns lap as he fell on the couch. She could feel her body getting warmer as she kissed him. she took a deep breath and wrapped her arms and legs around him, still breathing heavily. She rested her head on his chest and listened, just as she had done before. "I wish I could have met you earlier" Lacie whispered hugging him. "Why is that" John said softly. Lacie smiled again, thinking about her life if she had John before. "I wouldn't have been with Chris and, it's just I'm so happy to have you" she answered quietly. John smiled as he held her closer. Hearing her soft sweet voice made him forget about the hardship of his own life. They both listened to the pouring rain bounce off the roof. Lacie felt safe in his arms and didn't want to move. Within a few moments, Lacie was fast asleep on Johns chest. He kissed her soft lips and closed his eyes, dreaming of her. Ashley pulled to a red lighted and waited. She rolled her window down just a few inches. She could feel the rain splash onto her arm and shoulder. A glimpse of something moving bounced in her side mirror. She focused and saw someone walking. "Who's dumb enough to walk in this" she asked herself. The man stopped and pulled something from his pocket. A cloud of smoke formed over him as a took a long drag from his cigarette. "You got to be kidding" Ashley mumbled turning towards the man. Ashley pulled closer and rolled her window down even more. "Get in Brad. I'll give you a ride" she sighed. Bradley took a long drag and flicked off the hot rock. He jumped in the passenger seat and smiled. "Thanks" he said softly. "Are you out of your mind? You're going to get sick out here" she almost barked. Bradley just sat and stared out the window. "Where you going" Ashley sighed again, feeling sorry for him. "I was going to get something from the store" Bradley answered in a low voice. Ashley shook her head and slowly drove off. "I thought you were with Chris and Cody" Ashley asked trying to avoid the silence. Bradley shook his head at the thought of them. "i think Chris has gone completely insane. I don't know what his beef is with that John dude, but it has gotten ridiculous" Bradley said with a little anger in his voice. Ashley smiled a little. "Yeah he's been a real douche bag lately" Ashley remarked smiling back at Bradley. Ashley pulled into a parking spot and quickly got out. "Come on. I don't want to get wet." Ashley said shutting the door behind her. Bradley smirked to himself. "I would love for you to get wet" he mumbled under his breath getting out relighting his cigarette. He watched Ashley run inside, staring at her. He got to the door and flicked his cigarette into a puddle. He walked in and shook his hair. "You're crazy" Ashley smiled waiting on him. "Yeah" he mumbled. Bradley headed for the food aisles. He could feel Ashley following close behind. "So what you getting" Ashley said walking close beside him. "I got to get some food for the house" he answered pulling a piece of paper from his coat pocket. He took a buggy from the rack and started gathering the food. "I'm sorry for they way I acted before" Bradley sighed. "i don't want you to think that I stopped caring for you. I still care about you so much" Bradley admitted. "I know." Ashley said wanting to change the subject. "So, what's up with Chris now? He's been acting like a villain or something?" Ashley asked dropping a few boxes of cereal in the buggy. Bradley thought about what he saw in Chris' room. He could still see the articles on the walls. Bradley was to far into thought to see Ashley tossing a big bag of chips in the cart. He tried to hide the fear in his voice. "He thinks that John is some form of.... terrorist." He said keeping his voice low. Ashley's attention shot to the lucid idea of John as a terrorist. It made sense to Ashley, remembering what he told her and what he can do. "What do you think about John?" Ashley asked feeling her heart pound thinking John. "I honestly have no idea. It's weird how guy like that could be homeless. You'd think he would be military or something" brad answered trying to forget the fight. Ashley sighed remembering what she heard. "He said something about his mom dying in a fire like over a year ago, and he's been on his own ever since" Ashley said with a sad voice. Bradley stopped and thought. "I think I remember that, it was right before Pinky's party" Bradley said staring at the cart full of food. "Yeah that's when y'all started being jerks" Ashley snapped back. Bradley just sighed. "You know that's when Chris started doing drugs with Pinky" he said trying to get the pressure off of him. Ashley got scared. "Is that what's wrong with him?" Ashley asked grabbing his hand. Brad smiled and gripped her hand tighter. "I think I have enough food" he smiled. They made their way to the front of the store to the registers. As the cashier scanned all the food, Bradley watched the price quickly rise. "Oh crap, I don't have enough for this" he whispered. Ashley just smiled. "I got it" she said smiling at him. Ashley swiped her card and headed for the door. "It's still pouring" Brad smiled. He took her hand and ran to the car. They both laughed as they tossed the bags in the back. They both jumped in the car and smiled at each other. Brad slowly leans over kissed her. Ashley was shocked, but she knew she wanted more. She kissed him back and pulled him close. She could feel his hand running up her thigh. She pulled away and laughed. "You almost stared something" she whispered and winked at him. She slowly drove off. Brad stared at her the whole way back. "Thank you" he said with his hand on her. Ashley kissed him again. "Are we... You know?" He asked not wanting to sound desperate. "We'll see" she answered with another kiss. "I'll call you later" she said with a smile. Brad grabbed his bags and kissed her again. "Bye babe" she whispered. Brad took his bags and ran inside. He shook off his boots and put the food away. He watched as Ashley drive off as he lit a cigarette. He laughed to himself as he flicked the ashes in a small can. He sat on the couch and took a long drag. A loud bang on the door shook him out of his day dream. He quickly got up and opened the door. He almost dropped his cigarette in anger when he saw Chris smiling at him. "I see you and Ashley are working things out" Chris said forcing his way through the door. Cody followed him in without making a sound. "What do you want" Brad snapped. Chris shook his head. "There has been a change in plans since you are now on the other side" Chris growled. "I'm not on anyone's side, you're just insane." Brad shot back. Chris stepped closer to Brad. "You actually think John is an alien? You're just pissed that he put you in your place" brad said jabbing his finger in Chris' massive chest. "Didn't he brake your nose?" Chris asked with a low growl. Brad remembered the day they jumped John. "I don't want anything to do with either of you" brad grunted shoving Chris toward the door. Brad met eyes with Cody, who seemed lost in his own world. "Take your goon and get out of my house." Brad demanded. "Fine, but when there's a situation where all hope is lost; I won't help" Chris said calmly. "Leave!" Brad shout pointing at the door. Chris lit a cigarette and stepped out. Cody quickly followed. Brad slammed the door behind them. Chris laughed as he headed down the drive way. "Ashley is headed back to her house" Chris said watching the rain clear up as the sun falls behind the trees. Cody still follows without making a sound. "When we get back, I have a job for you" Chris told Cody as they jumped a small ditch. They walked in silence until they reached the small shed Chris had done his research on John. "The main issue is them together. I want you to make it as difficult as possible for Ashley to see anyone." Chris said pulling a small box from the shelf. "Get her car, as aggressive as possible" he said opening the box. He pulled out a fairly large pistol. "Don't fire it, just strike fear." He said handing the pistol to Cody. "One more thing" Chris said rubbing his hands together compressing the thick powder leaking from his hands. A black mass formed in his palm. He jumped at Cody with a grunt and forced the mass down Cody's throat. Cody coughed and seized in pain. "You were getting weaker" Chris grunted pulling Cody to his feet. Cody's chest popped as it stretched out, giving Cody a larger look. Cody whipped his mouth and slipped the pistol in his jacket. "Take this" Chris ordered tossing a monkey mask at Cody. Cody caught it and shoved it
his back pocket. He pushed opened the door and headed through the woods. He hiked for miles in the dark, remembering each stump and trail. Almost an hour passed before he stopped at a road. He watched as a few cars sped down the quiet dark road. He followed the dark road in silence. His only thought was scaring Ashley and robbing her of her only means of travel. At once he cared so much for Ashley. He could almost remember the high jealousy he had of Brad. Almost. The dark matter that filled his blood and brain blocked all of the essence of his feelings and his own thoughts. He marched down the gravel filled road, not letting his eyes leave the dark silver shiny car. Cody used to be distracted by the color of Ashley's car, but now nothing could break his concentration. He followed the wood lines, getting closer to the car. He took a deep breath and crouched against a tree, waiting. Cody's breath slowed down along with his heart. His skin hardened as the black powder seeped through. He could feel his eyes hardened. He leaned against a small tree, still keeping his eyes on the car. His heart almost stops, beating once every few minutes. All of his joints stiffen and lock in place. The pain is excruciating, but the only message to his brain was to wait. His eyes were locked on the car but his mind went blank. The clouds over him rolled away as the stars appeared. The stars seemed to spin over him, like he was locked in time. The sun leaked over the trees. A lighted flicked on in Ashley's house. Cody slowly turned his head, popping his stiff neck. He forced his body to move, with very joint popping. His mouth and eyes began to flood with fluid. He pulled the mask over his head and grabbed the pistol from his pocket. He stepped out of the woods and took off running. He crouched down behind the car and waited. He could hear the door open and the keys jingle in her hand. He crouched lower and gripped the pistol tight when he heard footsteps down the stairs. He could see her tan legs near the door. Cody pushed off the car and charged her. He grabbed the keys from her hands and grabbed her back. She screamed in shock, kicking as Cody picked her up off the ground. He threw her back and pointed the gun at her. She began to cry in fear, but her fear quickly became anger once she realized she was being robbed. Ashley screamed again, throwing her foot high between his legs. Her shin bone slammed against Cody. He didn't budge. She kicked again. She could feel a bruise form on her leg. Cody swung the pistol. The side collided with her cheek, knocking her into the mud. She grabbed her face in pain as her blood filled her hands. Cody kicked with all of his brute strength in between Ashley's legs. The force flipped her over on her back. She grabbed herself and screamed in pain. Cody jumped in the car and sped off, grinding the gears. He could still see her on the ground holding herself. He drove passed a red light onto the highway. He saw large truck speeding down a hill. Cody forced the car through the median and jumped out onto the wet grass. The car bounced out of the median into oncoming traffic. A diesel slammed on its brakes and slid several yards before crushing it. The massive diesels frame bounced over the small car, almost ripping it to shreds. Several cars slid past the carnage, blaring their horns. Cody picked himself up and took off running as he readjusted his mask. The yelling and cursing behind him made him run faster. He headed straight into the woods, avoiding all people. He heard the sirens screaming down the highway as he forced his way through the thick woods. The ruckus behind him seemed to fade away as the woods grew denser around him. He started walking once he knew he was far enough. Cody pulled off his mask and tossed it behind him. He knew the woods more than anyone, and he knew no one would ever find the mask. He kept straight, heading for Chris. His mission was done. A few miles later he came to a large clearing, where he could see the back of the building Chris stayed in. Cody brushed himself off and headed for the door. He can hear the news playing on the small TV on the shelf. Cody smirked as he knocked. He heard a soft laughter behind the door. Chris flung open the door. "Not exactly what I had in mind, but what ever works" Chris said taking the pistol from Cody's pocket. Chris pulled the chamber back and checked the inside. "No shots. Good. I might need all the ammo." Chris said placing the pistol behind his belt. "Now let's get started" he said pulling his phone out. "I have a plan" Chris said in Brad's voice. Ashley laid on her couch, still in pain. She can feel her face swell and a massive bruise form between her legs. She cried holding herself. A faint sound caught her attention. Her phone buzzed in her purse. She quickly rushed towards it. "Hello" she cried. "Ashley? What's wrong?" She heard Bradley's worried voice. "Someone stole my car" she cried, slowly letting her fear out. "Oh my god. Are you okay?" Brads concerned voice almost soothed her. "Please come here, I'm so scared." Ashley pleaded hoping that he could comfort her. "I'm on my way, don't go anywhere. I'll be there in a few minutes." Bradley sounded like he was holding back his tears. "Please hurry baby" Ashley cried. She heard the phone call end. She grabbed a pillow and hugged it. She tried her best to calm her nerves. She kept replaying the attack over and over in her mind. She still couldn't believe that it happened. Knowing that Bradley was on his way almost made it easier. She touched her cheek, she can feel it swell. She sobbed trying to come to reality on what happened. She finally controlled her breathing and pulled herself to her feet. Ashley pulled opened the blinds on the window, there were no signs of Bradley. "Where are you" she whispered to herself. She took a deep breath and headed back to the couch. A shadow passed by the kitchen window, making her jump. Her breath shot from her lungs. The fear quickly came rushing back to her heart. "Hello" she gasped, pulling herself to her feet. She quietly stepped into the kitchen and pulled a knife from the sink. The room was so quiet, Ashely could hear her heart pound in her chest. She waited by the window, watching the road. A loud bang on the door made her jump, dropping the knife. It bounced across the floor. She stood there, loss of breath, waiting. The door pounded again. "What do you want" she screamed, grabbing the knife again. "Ashley, it's me. Open the door" she heard Bradleys voice from outside. "Thank God" she sighed relieved. She tossed the knife in the sink and rushed to the door. The large shadow in the curtains made her stop. "Brad?" She questioned in fear. "Open the door!" Brads voice cracked in split. The man pounded on the door again. Ashley listened in fear. She moved the blinds over to peek through. She stopped breathing at what she saw. The tall man with the monkey mask was outside pounding on her door. The masked man threw his shoulder at the door, busting it open. Ashley screamed, rushing to her phone. "Oh no you don't" one grunted, grabbing her from behind. Ashley screamed and tried to kick herself free. She can feel the mans cold breath against her neck. His massive arms wrapped her completely. He grabbed the front of her shirt and flung Ashley at the ground, ripping her shirt to shreds. She covered herself as she tried pulling away. She gasped when she saw Chris standing over her. His eyes were dark and his skin has grown pale. He grabbed her face and pulled her to her feet. Ashley was to shocked to scream, to scared to fight back. Chris laughed under his breath. "I'm going to use you" Chris grunted. His voice split in several sounds. "You will make more of what I am." His words sent panic in Ashley's blood. Chris held her face and made her watch. He made her watch him change from a man to beast. His jaws stretched out, exposing his sharp teeth. Chris growled and pushed her to the floor. She bounced on her stomach, knocking the wind out of her. She gasped as she lunged for her phone. Chris grabbed her hips and dug his nails in her pants. Ashley cried as the claws dug into skin. With a quick snarl, Chris ripped her pants to pieces. She screamed reaching for her phone again. She can feel Chris forcing himself on top of her, his massive weight was squeezing the air from her lungs. Ashley cried for help as Chris forced himself inside her. The only thing she could think of besides the pain and fear was to call John and Lacie. Chris snarled and growled as he jolted Ashley back and forth. Ashley finally grabbed her phone, screaming and crying. She held one button and it stated to ring.
John readjusted the thin cover that wrapped around him. He pulled Lacie closer to him and kissed her. A loud ring blared from Lacie's pocket. "I'll get it" John smiled taking her phone. Lacie just smiled. "It's Ashley." He said answering it. "Hello" he answered. John could only hear screams. "Help! He's raping me!" Ashley screamed. "I'm at home" she cried. John hung up the phone. "She's being attacked we have to go" his voice cracked with anger. He grabbed his shirt and took off running. John can still hear her screams. He knew what Chris had done. His blood boiled, his heart pounded. The tree limbs whipped passed him. His feet bounced off the ground faster than his heart beat. He could feel Lacie slowly fallow behind. John wanted her to stay back. He didn't know what she might see, or what Chris wanted to do to Lacie. John saw smoke seeping through the trees. He knew he was close. Ashley's screams almost echoed in his ears. John could see the small trailer grow closer. He could still hear Lacie in the woods. She slowed down to catch her breath. Johns feet didn't slow a budge. His lungs let out a short scream as he threw himself trough the thin metal door. A loud thud shook the whole trailer as John kicked the door across the room. "Ashley!" John screamed. He paused and listened. He could hear deep breathing and heavy sobbing coming from the back room. He quickly bolted down the hallway and kicked open the wooden door. It swung open hard enough to slam the door knob into the wall, wedging it open. John stopped in fear as he saw her. Ashley was the floor in a small puddle of her own blood and tears. She was on her side with her hands in between her legs. Blood was still dripping from her thighs and mouth. Her half naked body was covered in bruises and cuts. Her breathing was hard and horse. "Oh God" he gasped. He dropped beside her and wrapped a shirt around her. Ashley hugged him in pain. "I'm sorry" she grunted. John knew she had a few broken ribs by the way she moved. "Come on" he whispered grabbing her. He picked her with ease and headed for the door. As he turned the corner, a heavy force slammed John into the wall. He bounced off the wall and crashed to the ground. He reached for Ashley's arm, but felt him being pulled away. Johns eyes met the blood shot grey eyes of Chris. "You are becoming a real thorn in my side" Chris growled, picking John of the ground by his shirt. John threw his head forward, clashing with Chris' nose. Chris dropped him in pain. John swung with all of his weight. His fist collided with Chris' jaw. Chris landed on his stomach and quickly raised himself to his knees. John jumped on his back and straddle his ribs. John squeezed his knees into Chris' sides as he punched the back of his head. Johns fists rained on Chris. Chris felt his brain shake in his skull. With each punch, John could feel Chris slowly getting closer to the ground. John grunted with each swing. He could feel his eyes frost over. His hair grew thicker and faded to a light blue. John slammed both of his palms in to the mans ears. Chris' arms slipped out from underneath him. Chris fell face first on the ground. John jumped high and drove his feet into Chris' lower back. John could hear a few cracks as his wieght forced down on Chris and rolled off. He looked around and saw Ashley on the ground holding herself, still crying. John changed back to normal and rushed towards her. A loud boom echoed through the small home. John hit the ground and rolled. He knew what that sound was. He jumped back and saw Chris holding a small revolver. "I am getting sick of this John." Chris screamed pointing the gun at John. John rushed at Chris, grabbing his arm. Both struggled to get the weapon. Chris slowly pulled it closer to his chest. John felt the heat from the barrel. He could see the silver handle getting closer to his face. Chris pulled the trigger. The round shot through the roof. The noise echoed in Johns ears. His ear began to ring. Chris shoved John off and pointed again. "I think I have a better idea" Chris growled making his way to the front door. "No!" John screamed in pain holding his ear, as he saw Chris reach for Lacie. John grabbed Chris from behind the waist and flung him into the door frame. "Just die!" Chris screamed pulling the trigger again. John dropped to the floor and jumped at Chris again, driving both of his feet into Chris' chest, sending him over the railing of the porch. Chris bounced on the solid dirt below. Johns ear still was ringing from the gun shots. Lacies scream almost seemed muffled. Lacie ran to Ashley as she rolled in pain. John was shocked when he saw the blood pour from Ashley's chest. He grabbed her and carried her with ease. "We got to get her out of here" John almost screamed. He jumped off the porch and took off running. He knew Lacie was right beside him. Chris pulled himself to his knees and squeezed the trigger again. John ducked and saw a small tree nearly explode by his head. "Run" John yelled, running through the dense woods holding Ashley. He ran with her curled in his chest. He could feel the blood fill his shirt as the limbs slice through his shoulder. "Don't look back Lacie" he screamed. They stopped to catch their breath. John’s ears were still ringing from the gun shot. "There’s a highway just up here" John said repositioning Ashley in his arms. "Let's go" he said pushing through bushes. They forced themselves out into the open, screaming. Lacie waved her arms, screaming at the oncoming traffic. Several cars passed by in high speeds. "Help!" John yelled dropping to his knees. He looked at Ashley. "Crap" he grunted. Her face was pale and her eyes were wide. "Help" John screamed again. His eyes brightened when he saw a silver Buick slam on the brakes and turned on the flashers. Lacie grabbed John and helped him to his feet. "Thank god" John grunted running to the car. A man stepped out opening all the doors. "What happened?" He exclaimed. "She was shot" Lacie cried. The man pulled a large first aid kit from the backseat and set it on top of the car. "Lay her down" the man demanded. John laid Ashley in the back seat as the man pulled a small tube from the kit. "Step back" he said pushing Lacie and John back with one hand. He reached down and ripped the shirt exposing Ashley's breast. He opened the tube and jabbed the tube into the wound. Ashley screamed and grabbed the wound. The man took off his shirt and wrapped it around Ashley. "Get in" he demanded. John jumped in the backseat and held Ashley. Lacie crawled into the passenger seat. The man stomped on the gas, slinging dirt behind him. He pulled out his phone. "This is Specialist Welch, I'm on 78 highway heading east. I picked up a gunshot victim. I'm transporting her to the closest hospital. Be on a look out for a 2004 silver Buick Century" He hung up the phone and sped up faster. John began wiping the blood off of Ashley's breast and saw a string hanging from the womb. "What you do to her" John asked heavily. "It's a tampon" Welch answered with a serious face. "What?" Lacie cried. Welch weaves through traffic. "It's a tampon. They are deigned to absorbed blood and stop bleeding. They have a sterile applicator and shape to the surrounding" Welch answered. "They are perfect for gunshots" he continued. "How'd you learn that" John exclaimed. "Iraq" Welch replied speeding down an exit ramp. "It hurts" Ashley cried. "I know but it stopped bleeding" John whispered moving her hair out of her eyes. "No not that" she whined grabbing her crotch. "What's wrong" welch blared speeding through a red light. "It burns" Ashley cried. "She was rapped" John cried. Welch's face burned with anger. "She's saying it burns" John said almost embarrassed. Welch slammed on the brakes and slid the car I front if the hospital. "Get out" welch screamed. John rushed to the front door, carrying Ashley. Lacie didn't move from the car. The shock of the events sent her into a state of pure fear, crying. Welch opened the passenger door and grabbed Lacie by the hands. "Come on. Your friend needs you" he said pulling her out of the car. They rushed in to the hospital. Welch ran to the front desk. "I have a rape victim, who's been shot" his voice boomed through the room. The nurse immediately called for help on the radio. Only a few moments passed before police and EMTs showed up with a gurney. They took Ashley and rushed her to the trauma center. A police officer stopped Welch and John as they tried to catch up to Ashely. "I have some questions for you two" the officer said firmly blocking the doorway. Welch took a deep breath and shook his head. "Alright officer, let's walk outside. Let's not disturb these people anymore" Welch said walking to the door. John knelt down beside Lacie and took her hand. "We are going outside to talk to the cop. Stay here and listen for anything about Ashley" he whispered and kissed her. John realized that Welch and the officer was already talking outside. John rushed outside. The officer stopped mid-sentence when he saw John. "What's going on?" John asked leaning on the side of Welch's car. The officer’s radio buzzed, he simply turned it off. "I was talking to Specialist Welch about the incident. Now I want to know your side of the story. What's your name?" The officer’s voice almost faded as John remembered the fight. John lowered his head and spoke softly. "I went to pick her up, and when I got there..." John’s voice almost cracked. "She was laying on the floor. The guy already beat her half to death. I tried to help her, then me and him got into a fight. He kept saying she wasn't going leave." John saw Lacie and stopped. She rushed straight to him and hugged him. "She's being admitted overnight. They have to do more blood work." Lacie's voice sounded like a child's to John. John sighed. "We'll stay here with her." He told her, forgetting about the officer. Lacie faced the officer. Her voice quickly became angry. She began screaming at the officer "Why are you here? Shouldn't you be getting the guy who did this to her? Go do your job and stop asking so many damn questions!" Lacie held back from breaking down. The officer took a deep breath. "That's what I'm doing. I'm trying..." "His name is Chris Wayne. He's 22. He lives at 313 Greenleaf Drive. Go get him" Lacie interrupted. Silence fell between them. Both John and Welch was surprised by her outburst. Welch jumped down from the hood of his car. "Well officer, since I've already given you my information I'm going to head out. Oh, and John here's my number call me if you need anything" Welch handed John a folded piece of paper then got in his car and drive off. John shoved the paper in his pocket and watched welch drive away. The office broke the silence and said "Now if I can get some information from you two I'll let you get back to your friend. What are your names and how do you know the victim?" John sat down on the curb and shook his head. Lacie sat next to him. "My name is Lacie Quinn. She has been my friend since high school. Her attacker went to our school as well" her voice was so soothing to John, it almost calmed him down; almost. John pulled the paper Welch gave him from his pocket and opened it. The words seem to bleed through the page but it was still legible. "Dear John-don't tell him your name. He wants to use what happened to your mother against you. Use a different name---Welch" Anger boiled in John’s blood. "My name is Thomas Seraphim. Now we are going inside to find her friend" Johns snapped and took Lacie by her hand. "What are you doing?" Lacie whispered. John gave her the paper and made his way to the ER waiting room. She sat down and read the letter. She felt her heart drop as she crumbled it. Lacie began to break down and cry. John held her and laid her head on his chest. "It's ok, we'll get through this; I promise" he tried his best to comfort her. She wiped her eyes and kissed him. "I love you John" she whispered and laid her head in his lap. John was shocked. "I love you to Lacie" he almost cried as he held her close. "John?" She asked not moving. "Yeah" he answered running his fingers through her hair. "What did Welch mean about the thing with your mom?" She asked closing her eyes. John stopped. "I got into trouble a couple years ago. Someone robbed my mother and I caught him a few blocks down. And when I caught him, he pulled a gun. So I..." John almost had forgotten about that night. "Did you kill him?" she asked sitting up. "No, almost did though. I about beat him half to death. I lost my temper and went to a rage. After I've seen him beat my mother. I snapped" John felt ashamed. "Well he deserved it" she kissed him again and laid back down on his lap. They sat there and rested. Hours had passed when they both were awaken by a nurse. "She's going to be ok. We have her on antibiotics and pain killers. She will need to be on the antibiotics for at least two years to fight the infections" the nurse read from her board without even making eye contact. John looked at Lacie confused. "What infections?" He asked running the incident through his head. "We found semen in both vagina and anus. We tested the fluids and it came back positive with gonorrhea. So for precaution we prescribed her the antibiotics. She will need to stay here over night." The nurse explained trying to set her voice to a caring tone. "Can we see her" Lacie said standing up. The nurse began to explain the policies. "Let me rephrase that. We are seeing her" Lacie stormed off. John immediately followed her. They stopped at the receptionist to see what room and hurried to the elevators. When they got to her room they saw her still crying holding herself. Lacie ran to her and hugged her. "The nurse told us what they found. I'm so sorry" Lacie began to cry holding her friend. Ashley dried her eyes and sat up. "They said that man saved my life. If he hadn't stopped I would have bled to death." Ashley's voice was horse from her screaming. "I can't believe he did this to me" Ashley began crying again. "It's going to be ok. I told the police officer outside his name and where he lives. Plus they have his DNA now." Lacie tried her best to comfort Ashley. All Ashley could do was cry. A knocking on the door made Ashley jump. A doctor stepped in with a tray of food and medicine. The doctor spoke with a stern voice, "She needs her rest. Let us watch over her tonight" Lacie hugged Ashley and took John by his hand. They could still hear the cries down the hall. Lacie wiped her eyes. John could see the hurt in her eyes. Anger boils in his blood. He took a deep breath, trying to calm down. John stopped at a desk and waited for a nurse to notice him. An older woman stepped up and smiled. "Is there any way you could inform us when Miss Ashley Nearmin is ready to leave?" John asked, trying not to sound worried. The nurse scanned through her files on her computer. "She will be released Monday afternoon around one" she read from her screen. "Thank you" John said taking Lacie’s hand. They walked around the hospital looking for a place to rest. John peaked through a door window and saw two men arguing. The younger man had wraps around his arms and part of his face; like he has been burned. Lacie grabbed John’s arm tight and pulled him closer. "Can we not stay here over night? How about a hotel room" Lacie whispered, still holding her tears back. John nodded his head and led her to the main doors. "We'll come back the first thing in the morning" John said opening the doors. They walked down the main road towards the closest hotel. Lacie checked in at the desk while John stood outside rubbing his hands together. They felt freezing to him. When they got into the room Lacie went straight to the bathroom; leaving John on the bed. John tossed his bag next to the bed. When she came back, she was wearing nothing but her underwear. John jolted up when he saw her bare skin. Lacie smiled and laid in bed next to him. They laid there for only a moment before Lacie climbed on top of John and began kissing him. John wrapped his arms around her. She jumped and let out a slight squeal when his fingers ran down her back. "Your hands are freezing" she smiled and kissed him again. John couldn't focus. His mind wondered. He pulled apart from their deep kiss. Lacie watched him. "What's wrong, Baby" she asked running her fingers down his chest. "There's something I want I show you" John said in a soft voice. He reached over and pulled a velvet wrap from his bag. Lacie always wondered what he kept in there that was so special to him. He looked her in the eyes and took a deep breath. "Many years ago, when my father first met my mother; he gave her something. Something that meant so much to him that he dared not to even show anyone." John explained, pulling one side of the velvet down. "See where I come from, a man will show his love to a woman by making something with his bare hands." He continued, pulling off another piece down. Lacie’s eyes widened when she saw a glimpse of light reflect through. "My father made this for my mother before I was born. He wanted to show her how much he loved her. My mother gave this to me after my father died." John’s eyes were locked on the velvet in his hands. He unfolded the last piece. Lacie lost her breath when she saw a large piece of what looked like diamond. Waves carved into it in the shape of a detailed rose. John held it to the light. Fragments of rainbows shot around the room. Lacie watched in amazement. "It's beautiful. Your father made that?" She asked almost in a whisper. John nodded. "With his bare hands" John said looking into her eyes. Lacie reached out and rubbed her fingers down the middle waves. Her hand shot back almost in pain. "It's freezing" she exclaimed. "It's made from carbon lothium" he explained. Lacie looked at him in confusion. "You mean lithium" she asked. John shook his head. "Lothium. It's an element where I come from." Lacie sighed and wrapped the cover around her bare skin. Her eyes locked on the velvet in John’s hand. She watched him wrap it back. "Where are you from? Like exactly where" she asked so confused. Her voice seemed scared to John. John kneeled in front of her and grabbed her hands. "Have you noticed my hands are always cold; or the fact that we fell for each other so hard and fast." John almost seemed to whisper. He knew he wanted her to know the truth. "I do love you with all my heart, but I'm not like anyone you have ever met in your life. I did not lie to you I am from Ori-Thione, but it's not in Europe" he took a slow breath. "It's much farther then Europe. My father was killed when they got here" John tried his hardest not to cry. Lacie stood up and walked around the room. She picked up Johns jacket and pulled it over her bear skin, like she was hiding herself. "Where is Ori-Thione? Stop avoiding the question." She shot back almost in angry tears. "John, you mean everything to me and I need to know more about you. It hurts me so much that you don't tell me everything" she sat beside him and started to cry. John held her and kissed her head. John held back his own tears and spoke with a soft voice. "Ori-Thione isn't in Europe. It's not even close to Midox" Lacie sat up quickly. "What are you talking about?" She asked getting scared. John rubbed his hands together and stared at his bag. "What you call the Sun, we call Midox. I saw a few maps here and we have different names for almost everything. Ori-Thione is known as" John shook his head letting tears fall from his face. "Ori-Thione is known as Pluto here" John had to force those words from his lungs. Lacie sat up and wiped her eyes. "Pluto?" She repeated. "John you need help" she scooted away from him, positioning herself closer to the door. "I know I seem crazy and I know you don't believe me. You are the first person I told." John said whipping his eyes. "John, look at me" Lacie grabbed his arm. "I'll get you some help, I'll help you through this" Lacie’s voice seemed to crack. John could tell she was scared. John stood up and pulled off his shirt. "I'll show you" he said walking to the middle of the floor. He spread his arms wide and tilted his head back. Lacie grabbed her purse and held it close. John locked eyes with her. "Don't run" his voice split in two different sounds. He took long breath and slowly let the air out of his lungs. Lacie could see his breath in the air, like in the middle of a cold winter night. John’s skin faded to a light shade of blue, like the side of a glacier. Lacie stood in shock as she saw him change. His eyes turned a bright white. The air in the room grew cold. John’s spiked blonde hair started to thicken and grew white. His hair seemed to freeze, turning it into spikes; like thin ice cycles. Lacie pinned herself to the door; terrified. She grabbed the cover off the bed and wrapped it around her body. John lowered his arms and slowly stepped toward her. John’s breath seemed to freeze in midair. "Don't be afraid. I will never hurt you" John spoke with noises between his words. He put his hands together as if he was praying. A light flickered between his fingers. Tiny shards of ice circled around him. He held his hands up in front of him. He began to move his hands like a martial artist, gathering the particles in the air. He cupped his hands over each other. The particles circled around him and floated into his hands. He slowly separated his hands as a mass started to form in his palm. A small chain fell between his fingers when he closed his hands together. As he stepped closer his skin started to get more color, his eyes grew back to the light blue as before. His hair grew darker and thin. Lacie, still pinned to the door, forced herself deeper in the corner. John spoke so softly. "This is my gift to you to show my love. What I feel for you is higher than the skies above. My heart now beats for you. You are my lover ever so true" John placed the chain around her neck. She felt the coldness of the pendent on her chest. She looked down and saw its beauty. A small ball with scratches like lightning form shapes all around its surface; like a globe. "It's so beautiful" she was shocked of the beauty of it. John took her hand and kissed it. She could feel the chills seep through her skin. Everything seemed to be better when he touched her. She grabbed him and hugged him. "Why am I not freaking out right now?" She asked calmly. "When my skin touches yours, you take a small part with you. You are my perfect mate" he said in his normal voice kissing her lips. Lacie smiled and kissed him. The feeling rushed back through her with that kiss. She stepped towards him and fell on the bed. She pulled off the jacket and climbed on John again. She kissed him while unbuckling his belt and pants. John could feel his heart pounding in his stomach. Lacie pulled off his pants and kissed up his chest. She could feel his raging erection rubbing on her underwear. She unclipped her bra and pulled her panties off. John pulled her closer and kissed her; letting his hands roam around her bare breast. She felt his tip rub her sensitive. She lowered her hips, forcing it in. She screamed in pure pleasure as she moved on top of him.
They awoke the next morning still holding each other. Lacie sat up and felt the warmth of the sun. She twirled the small globe around her fingers, watching the light dance through the lightning as she turned it. "Are you ok?" She heard a soft voice from behind her. She turned and smiled at John. "Yeah, I'm just sore" she said smiling crossing her legs. John sat closer to her and kissed her neck. "Sorry, last night was the first for me" John said honestly. Lace smiled and kissed him. "Me to, you are amazing." she said laying her head in his lap. She could feel what was underneath the covers. She started to run her fingers down it. She rested her hand on it, only covering half of it. John laid his head back, enjoying her touch. "Come on baby, let's get up. We have to see about Ashley" she said slowly moving her lips down it and kissing the tip. They got up and pulled on their clothes, smiling at one another. John grabbed his ruck sack and opened the door for Lacie. They started walking down the road. Lacie stared at John. "Is it hot here? You know, compared to what you're used to?" She asked letting her hands rub against his as they walked. John smiled and picked up a rock. "It was at first until I developed my body" he said throwing the rock. Lacie watched the rock soar close to half a mile. "Good God!" She exclaimed. "How are you so strong?" She asked rubbing his toned arm. John smiled, almost blushing. "When I started to develop my human body, I trained all my muscles. My species takes the form of another to help adapt to the environment. I was so sick when I was young because of the heat. I could barely go outside or even eat. My mother kept me in a freezer as she read to me." John explained, losing his smile talking about his mother. He picked up another rock and threw it with all his might, making a grunting noise as it left his hand. The rock flew out if sight. Lacie watched in amazement. He continued his story. "As I got older and developed all muscles, I started to watched fighting and wrestling on the television and trained myself. I saw all sorts of movies. One of my favorites was a Chinese guy by the name of Bruce Le" John remembered all of the fights he saw. "What exactly happened to your mother?" She asked again, thinking about the fire. John picked up another rock and threw it at the woods. A loud crack echoed as it hit a tree. "I think someone started it. I'm not sure" he said stepping closer to Lacie. "How many are there of you?" She asked still wondering how she is accepting this. John smirked. "You have so many questions." He said wrapping his arm around her. "There was about nine total. My mother and father, his best friend and a few others." He answered. Lacie stopped in her tracks. "Where are the others?" She asked almost scared. John turned and faced her. "One has made a name for himself here. I think he goes by the name of Bryan Isham" he said skipping a rock down the road. It bounced several times before landing in a ditch. "Wait the author?" Lacie said chasing after John. John laughed under his breath. "I read all his books. He's an alien?" She asked almost star struck. "Yeah, he was part of the Sera Can; which is like our Army" John answered skipping another rock. Lacie shook her head in amazement. "And the others?" She asked again. "I don't know for sure, there were three children, including myself. I don't know if they made it." He said pulling out his canteen and taking a drink. He handed her the canteen and kicked a rock. Lacie took a drink. The cold water felt good on her lips. John could see the hospital sign. When they got inside, John headed straight for Ashley's room. A security guard braces himself in front of John. "Where are you going sir" the guard boomed. John could tell that he was trying to sound more intimidating. "I'm trying to see my sister in room 276. Where is she?" John shot back. "You will have to see the ladies at the front desk for all of the patients’ information" the guard said pointing to the desk. John shook his head and made his way to the desk. "Yes we wanted to check on Ashley Nearmin in room 276" John asked keeping his voice calm. The nurse smiled and began typing on her computer. "Miss Nearmin checked herself out about an hour ago" she answered calmly. John and Lacie were confused. "Do you know where she went or who was with her?" Lacie asked holding John by the arm. "I don't know miss" the nurse said checking a piece of paper. "Thank you" John said storming off to the door. "Hang on, I'm calling her" Lacie said pulling out her phone. The phone rang multiple times."She's not answering" Lacie said getting scared. John leaned against a rail and stared at the ground. "Wait don't you have Cody's or Bradley's number?" John asked remembering his fight. Lacie scrolled through her phone. "I ain't calling Cody, but I can try Bradley" she called. "Hand me the phone" John said stretching his legs. He could hear the ringing of the phone. A short crackle echoed a 'hello'. "Listen Bradley, I just want you to answer me. Do you know where Ashley's at?" John’s voice almost scared Lacie. Bradley paused. "I thought she was with you. I haven't heard from her in a few days." He answered. John knew he wasn't lying. "She's not at the hospital" John shot to break the silence. "Why was she in the hospital?" Bradley exclaimed. John shook his head. "Chris raped and shot her" John said in a low voice. "Oh my god" Bradley almost cried. John felt the phone shaking in his hand as Lacie stared at him. "Can you guys pick me up? I think I know where they might be" Bradley said rustling on the phone. "We can't. Cody and Chris messed up the car" John told him. Bradley sighed heavily. "He's actually doing it" Brad whispered to himself. "Doing what?" John snapped. "He had a plan to get back at you for something. He knows you somehow" Bradley answered confused. "We are heading to the pool hall, grab your bike and meet us there" John demanded. "On my way" Bradley said hanging up the phone. John handed Lacie the phone. "What did he say" Lacie asked shoving the phone back in her purse. "He thinks Chris has her. We are meeting him down the road" John said walking down the hill. Lacie followed him as they made their way to the highway. John noticed Lacie still twirling the necklace in her fingers. "Can you make more of these?" She asked trying to get her mind off of the walk. John shook his head. "It's only done once." He answered with a slight smile. Lacie saw the sack on Johns back. "Does that thing ever get heavy?" She asked just noticing how long he had it on. "Not really I'm used to it" he explained. "I think I might know what happened to Chris" John said listening to the cars pass by. "We have the ability to take control of another, like a parasite. Once we have a host, we can use a small part of us, place it into another to influence them" John explained without waiting for a response. "Like you did to me?" Lacie asked feeling used. "Not realy, more like a mind control in some cases. Either Chris has found another one of us, or he is one" John said hoping he was wrong. "What if Chris is one of you?" She asked getting scared. John thought about what if Chris was like him. "If he is..." John said watching the buildings get closer. "Then we have more problems than we can handle" he continued.
Chris watched Ashley as she screamed under the rag wrapped around her mouth. Chris grabbed another chair from under a desk and placed it in front of Ashley. She quieted her screams as he sat in front of her. "Scream all you want. No one can hear you through these thick walls" Chris said in a low voice. "Plus no one’s listening" he laughed as he leaned closer. Ashley screamed again when she saw his eyes. His eyes faded from a dark green to a light blue, his pupils with grey. Chris stood up and laughed again as he spread his arms wide. The air around Ashley felt freezing cold. She screamed again. Chris' breath got heavy as he let out a short grunt. His skin began to freeze instantly, causing his pale skin to turn a dark blue. His hair froze together, making clumps of ice. His yellowish teeth darkened to a greasy black, along with his nails. Ashley began cry as his body turned into a deathly figure. Cody sat and watched, his skin turning pale. Chris laughed again and leaned towards Ashley. "You know Ashley, me and John have a lot in common" he said as his voice split into several sounds. Ashley closed her eyes and screamed. Chris leaned closer and grabbed her head. "But you see, I am nothing like him" he almost screamed. Chris let out a short breath. Steam floated from his nostrils. A light beeping noise broke Chirs' concentration. Chris stared at Cody as he messed with his phone. "You done?" Chris barked at Cody. "Yes" Cody said in a short breath. Chris shook his head and lit a cigarette, blowing the smoke in Ashley's face. "Ashley you are going to play a major role in this." Chris said taking another puff. "You are going to help me fix the problem. Consider yourself lucky though, if it wasn't for Lacie; you would be dead" Chris stated letting the smoke fill the air.
John and Lacie made their way through the thick crowd of the pool hall. Cigarette smoke filled the air. John grabbed Lacie’s hand and made his way to the back. He saw Bradley on his phone texting. Bradley shot up when he saw them. "I just talked to Cody. He's with Chris at the warehouse behind the church" Bradley told them. "Where's that at?" John asked. "It's all the way back in Dora" Bradley stated trying to escape the crowd. "Let's go outside" John demanded when he saw Lacie was uncomfortable. They made their way back outside. "How are we going to get back to Dora? It'll take two hours to walk there" John shot out in anger. John froze when he remembered the man from a few days before. "Lacie, let me see your phone" John asked pulling a piece of paper from his pocket. "What is it baby" she asked handing John the phone. Bradley was stunned that Lacie would be so close to him so fast. John dialed the number and stepped away. "Did you just call him baby?" Bradley asked in a low voice. Lacie just nodded her head. "He's a lot more than what he seems" she said remembering what happened with him at the hotel. "What is he like your super hero?" Bradley blurted out without thinking. Lacie smiled and watched John on the phone, thinking of what he all had done for her in the past week. "Yeah, he is my super hero" she smiled. John came back staring at his watch. He gave Lacie back her phone. Lacie smiled and kissed him. John kissed her back. "Well Specialist Welch is gone, but he will send one of his privates to take us. He'll be here in a few minutes" he said sitting near his ruck sack. "What's with the big pack" Bradley finally asked. John shook his head. "It's all I own and I have a lot of tools and supplies in here" he said pulling out his canteen. He took a long sip and handed it to Lacie. She took a drink and placed it back in the pocket. "Chris isn't himself anymore" John explained. "What do you mean?" Bradley asked, thinking of how Chris sounded at the park that day. John stared at Bradley. "He's more like me than you'll ever know" John said letting his eyes change into a bright white. Bradley jumped back in fear. "Holy crap" he almost screamed. John’s eyes faded back to a light blue. Bradley pinned himself against the wall, breathless. "I saw Chris do that once, that and his voice changes" Bradley explained catching his breath. "The sounds are how we communicate. The eyes change a lot where we're from to adjust the little light we get off the ice." John explained, wondering if he could trust Bradley. "What ice?" Bradley shot out. "They aren't from around here" Lacie stated. Bradley shook his head. "What are you an alien?" Bradley asked fearfully. "By definition" John nodding his head. "That's crazy" Bradley said raising his voice. A small truck pulled up in front of them and honked its horn. "That's us" John said grabbing his ruck and tossing it in the bed. He helped Lacie in the back before jumping in. Bradley climbed in the cab of the truck. "Where y'all going?" The man asked with a large wad of dip in his lip. "We need to go to Dora, like now" Bradley demanded. "Alrighty then" the man said slamming on the gas, slinging grass in the air. John gripped his ruck sack and Lacie’s shoulder as the truck bounced on the highway. "I really hope they're not alone" John said in anger. "How is Chris like you? I've known him for years." Lacie tried sounding calm. "We have the ability to control others in different ways. We can do simple emotions or we can basically inject ourselves into another host and take it over from the inside. I think that's what happened to Chris when he left with that Pinky guy" John said loudly almost scared. "There's three different tribes in Ori-Thione; there's my tribe the Gear Cains. We accept God's decisions and follow His word for us. Then there's the Lye-Theens, they are against Gods decisions and believe they are the greatest design." John explained hoping she will understand. "What's the third kind?" She asked praying to herself. "Those are the worst of our lands" John answered remembering the beasts. "They are brutal beasts who just eat whatever they can. They were kind of like Gods rough draft of us. Their species is as old as Ori-Thione. Almost pure evil over time" John explained. John and Lacie sat in silence as they watched the road behind them.
Chris flicked his cigarette in to the wall, causing the ambers to shatter. "You see, now that I have you; you are going to help me. I need you alive now that you are carrying my seed" Chris laughed. Ashley screamed again and began yelling. "I can't understand a word you just said" Chris said pulling the cloth off her mouth. "You got me pregnant?!" She screamed crying. "I can feel my seeds growing in you, and when they come out; you will probably die" Chris chuckled. Ashley cried louder. "You gave me an S.T.D" she screamed kicking his chair. She can feel her blood boil in her. She screamed again when she felt the coldness. An extreme coldness flooded between her legs in into her lower stomach. Chris wrapped the cloth over her mouth again, silencing her cries. "It's going to be a few days before you really feel the changes. I've done this before, many years ago" he explained. "She was much too young, her body couldn't handle the fast changes. But you will do just fine for my offspring." Chris almost screamed. Chris could hear the typing on Cody's phone. "What the hell you doing?" Chris demanded. Cody stood in fear. Chris got up and made his way to Cody. He snatched the phone from his hand and began reading the message. Anger flooded in Chris eyes. "You told them where we are?!" Chris screamed squeezing the phone. A large crack echoed in the empty room as Chris crushed the phone into dozens of pieces. "You have really placed our plan in quite a predicament." Chris tried to stay calm but the anger flooded back. He grabbed Cody by the shirt and slammed him against the wall. Cody's head bounced back off of the concrete. "You had one simple task" Chris barked, throwing his large fist at the side of Cody's skull. Cody fell to the ground hard, almost in shock. "And you can't even do that" Chris grunted driving his foot into Cody's ribs. Cody flipped on to his back, gasping for air. Chris wrapped his hands around Cody's throat and picked him up off the ground with a short grunt. Cody could feel the blood stop in his head. His feet dangled underneath him. Chris squeezed Cody's throat, watching his eyes turn blood shot. "And you think you are God's greatest design?" Chris screamed. Cody tried to fight back. He could feel the life being squeezed out of him. Cody began to throw his arms and legs at Chris, trying to loosen his death grip. "You're pathetic" Chris screamed throwing Cody with all his strength against the concrete wall. Cody bounced off the wall and hit the floor with a thud. Ashley screamed under the cloth. Chris watched Cody as he pulled himself to his knees. "Do you have any idea what you have done!" Chris screamed driving his massive foot to Cody's chest. Cody bounced back and landed on his back, gasping for air. "I'll fix this problem" Chris grunted slinging his foot high in the air and driving it straight down on to Cody's face. A loud crunch boomed under Chris's boot as he twisted his foot inside of Cody's brains. Ashley screamed herself horse watching the brutal death of her friend. "If he shows up" Chris barked in his split voice pointing at Ashley. "I will make sure you watch me rip his head off" Chris grunted kicking the blood off his boots. Ashley still screaming in fear as Chris stepped closer to her. "If you try to get rid of my offspring" I will make sure I split you open next time." Chris said in a calmer voice rubbing his hands together. She saw a dark blue object form in his palm from the floating dust. The air around her felt cold and lifeless. She couldn't breathe as the dust filled the air. Chris pulled the cloth off her mouth and grabbed her jaw. "Now eat" he grunted and forced the object in her mouth. She screamed in pain as the object froze parts of her mouth. Chris covered her mouth with his massive hand and leaned her back. She had no choice but to swallow the object. She gasped for air as it made it's down her chest. She could feel her lower stomach tighten and grow cold. She screamed when she felt an extreme feeling between her legs. "What did you do to me?!" She screamed crossing her legs in pain. Chris laughed. "You are carrying me offspring. It won't be long now" Chris smirked. She could feel her hips tighten and lower stomach stretch. She screamed again in pain. Chris heard a faint noise over her screams. He shot up and glared out the window. "We have company" he barked. He grabbed Ashley and hoisted her over his shoulders. He carried her with ease while Ashley kicked and screamed. He opened his car tossed her in the back. Chris watched as John and Lacie jumped from the bed of the truck. He got in the driver seat and cranked it. Ashley immediately began punching and clawing at Chris face and eyes. Chris grunted and sent his elbow with brute force to Ashley's head. She fell back in extreme pain, dazed. He spun the tires as he drove off, following the edge of the cliff. In an instant Chris slammed on his brakes and slid the car to the edge. Ashley watched his as he got out of the car and take off running. Moments passed before John and Lacie rushed to the car. John dropped his sack and pulled her to the ground. "What happened?" John almost screamed. "I'm pregnant" Ashley mumbles still in a daze. John stands up in shock. "Oh my God" John gasps looking around. "What is it" Lacie cried still holding Ashley. "He wants to produce offspring" John almost whispered in shock. Ashley screams as her stomach stretches more. Brad stumbled down the rocks trying to reach them. "Where is he?" John asked still looking around. Brad ran to Ashley almost crying. "Forget him" Brad screamed pulling Ashley closer to him. Lacie stood up and looked around. "He wouldn't just leave" John stated getting a little worried. Brad watched as Ashley's stomach stretched again. "What's wrong with her" brad screamed. "Chris got her pregnant" Lacie shot back. Brads eyes teared up with anger. John felt the sand under his feet cave in. Within a flash Johns feet were taking out from under him. He hit the ground with a thud. Laughter echoed in the air as John popped up. Lacie got down with Brad and pulled Ashley closer to the car. John cautiously scanned his surroundings. "Now that I have your attention" a deep voice boomed behind John. He quickly turned and saw Chris standing next to the edge. "You still think that you're better than me" Chris screamed. John stared at him. "What do you want Chris" John shot back in his splitting voice. Chris laughed and pulled a small object from his pocket. "What I want?" Chris repeated twirling the object in his hands. John saw the light shining through the waves in Chris's hand. John lost his breath when Chris gripped his mother’s gift. "I want you to burn" Chris grunted as he threw it with all of his strength in the ocean. John took off with pure anger towards Chris. Johns shoulder collided with Chris's chest before the object hit the water. Chris bounced off of John and rolled down the side of the cliff. John grunted as he jumped down. He hit the soft sand and rolled to his feet. Chris pulled himself up using the rocks on the cliff. He pulled a hand full of dirt from the cliff and threw it in Johns face. John wiped his eyes in pain. Chris rushed in and grabbed John by the waist, slamming him down. Chris's massive weight bounced on John’s chest. John gasped for air as Chris grabbed his throat. "You think you're all high and mighty because of your father" Chris screamed slamming his head against Johns face. John tasted the blood rushing from his mouth. With a quick jolt, John threw his foot against Chris's face and pushed him off. John rushed to his feet and bounded back several feet. "What does my father have to do with you?" John shot back ready for the next attack. Chris stood up and cracked his neck. "You don't remember do you Johnny" Chris almost laughed as he slowly walked toward John. John watched as Chris's eyes change. His skin faded grey, his hair thickened. John took a deep breath and changed as well. John’s skin grew light blue and his hair iced over as before. "You see John. I'm not exactly like you." Chris growled as his voice screeched. "We gave your land back. All of the Gear Cains made a treaty with the Lye-Theens. My father had nothing to do with what happened" John explained keeping his distance. "Your father let them in and failed to do anything" Chris shot back, grabbing a large branch and throwing it at John. John flipped back, kicking the branch out of the air. Chris's teeth stretched and sharpened as he growled. His jaw forced it's self out more. "You let everyone die!" Chris grunted charging John again. John grabbed Chris and rolled back, flipping him over as he had done before. Chris hit the sand with a thud. John popped up and stared at Chris's motionless body. The world felt like it stopped as John watched Chris change more. His chest popped as it stretched back. His jaw stretching more into a snout like a rabid dog. His fingers cracked and stretched to long claws. "Oh crap" John shouted. In an instant Chris pounced on John pinning him in the sand. Chris started swinging his claws at Johns face and chest. The nails sliced through John’s shirt into his chest. John withered in pain, trying to kick his way out. All he could hear was the tearing of his shirt and the evil laugh of Chris. John knew that this creature was no longer Chris. He knew that the Lye-Theen was an uncontrollable beast. Chris wrapped his massive hands around John’s throat and stood up with ease. John felt the blood pour from his chest and the pain in his head. "I tried to make it right" Chris growled throwing John at the mountain side. "I tried to fix it" he screamed again sending his foot into John’s stomach. The brute force sent John off the ground. Chris slammed both fists on Johns back, sending him straight down with a thud. John gasped for air, watching this beast. Chris grunted and began kicking John in the ribs and head. John rolled over and curled into a tight ball to protect himself from the massive blows. "He...left...us...all...to...die" Chris growled with every kick. Chris took a step back to watch John struggle to his feet. "I had nothing to do with the Invasion" John coughed. "The Leaders chose us because of the attacks" John forced from his bruised lungs. "We were sent to find help and salvation" John said finally getting to his feet. Chris growled in anger. "Is that what your mother told you" Chris shot back. Chris began to laugh again. "You were just a little one then. So small, so weak" Chris chuckled making his way to John. "You weren't sent here to find help. You were sent here to hide from the Invasion. Your father wasn't just a builder." Chris's face twitched as he remembered that day. John stared at the beast in confusion. "Have you noticed that they only allowed certain ones to leave? The leader of your Sera Can, your father and mother." Chris almost laughed again. "I must tell you something John before I rip your head off." Chris exclaimed. John’s blood boiled with anger. His ears formed into a point. Shards of ice formed over is elbows and wrists. "You were part of the end of our world. Your father allowed the walls to be torn down. That's why I tore off his head and watched your mother burn." Chris grunted with a voice that echoed off the waters. John screamed and ripped off his shirt. He bolted with full force at Chris. John threw all of his body into Chris's stomach. The force sent both of them over the edge. They hit the water causing a loud splash. John felt the water fill his lungs, trying to find the beast. John rushed to the surface and pulled himself on a small dock. John scanned the water waiting to see Chris. He could still hear the screams of Ashley and Lacie. Chris bursts through the water’s surface and grabbed Johns foot, pulling him off his feet. John felt the pressure around his ankle and began kicking at Chris. John’s foot collided with Chris's jaw, knocking Chris off of him. John took off running to the small shop at the end of the dock. He could hear the heavy stomps of Chris behind him. John knew that he couldn't get inside to protect himself. "Please God let this work." John grunted as the little shop came closer. Without slowing down, John placed one foot on the wooden wall. He took three steps up the side of the building. His foot slipped on the wet surface as he kicked off. He saw Chris underneath him still at full force. Chris crashed through the walls the moment John hit the docks wet floor, landing hard on his side. John grabbed his side, gasping for air. He pulled himself to his feet, groaning in pain. "God that hurt" he coughed. He saw the wreckage of the small building. Chris busted through the wreckage, swinging a large pole. John jumped back, the edge of the pole grazed his shoulder. Chris swung the pole again, colliding with Johns back. John hit the ground and bounced several times. Chris began swinging the pole downward on John. The heavy iron bounced off of John with each blow. John could hear his bones cracking and feel his skin tearing at each swing. A loud ringing echoed in his ears, but he could still hear the evil laugh of the beast standing over him. At each swing John felt weaker. A puddle of blood formed underneath him as Chris continued the heavy rain of attacks. "Why...won't...you...just...die" Chris barked with each hit. Chris growled with each breath, watching John gasp. Chris kicked John over again. Chris jumped on Johns stomach and slamming the rod sideways on Johns throat. John spat out a wad of blood as Chris pushed down on it. John could feel the life escape from his lungs. The massive weight on his crushed chest and the pressure on his throat made it impossible to breath. Chris screamed in Johns face as he pushed harder on the pole. John tried to fight back, swinging his arms at Chris's side and head. They did nothing to phase the beast. Chris slammed his head down on Johns face. John began losing feeling in his arms and legs. His swings become weaker and slower. His arms fell beside him. Johns breathing stopped. He felt his body become warm on the dock. The blood rushing from his nose and mouth stopped. Chris watched as Johns eyes turn to a dark grey. His skin faded from the light blue to a lifeless grey. Chris laughed again. "Once I'm done with you" Chris grunted pressing on the pole harder. "I'm going to split Lacie in half, and there is nothing you can do to STOP ME!" Chris screamed pressing all of his weight down on John’s throat. The memories of Lacie flashed in Johns mind. The feeling he got when they first met flooded his heart. He could hear his heart pounding with anger. John’s eyes flashed with a bright white light. Chris pressed harder and screamed "Die!" John’s hands clenched the pole, almost freezing it. John could feel the power building in his soul. His skin brightened with a light blue. He could see the fear building in Chris's eyes. John forced out a deep scream. His voice echoes like splitting metal. John slammed his palms into Chris chest. His anger sent a powerful blast of pure carbon lothium into Chris's chest. The bright light flashed off of their surroundings. The force sent the beast flying off of him into the wreckage of the building. Chris bounced into the gas pumps at the edge of the dock. John gasped for air. Taking his first breath in several minutes. John could smell the gas as he pulled himself to his feet. Adrenaline and anger filled his body more than his own blood. He quickly limped to where Chris landed. He saw Chris covered in blood and gas pouring on him from a busted pump. Chris didn't move a muscle when he noticed him, only gasped for air. John saw several pieces of wreckage sticking out of Chris's mangled body. A large plank forced itself through Chris's leg. A large shard of sheet metal sliced through the back of his neck. A large piece of rebar penetrated through his groin. Blood was pouring out from between his legs. John stood there and watched as Chris went into shock. Gas continued to pour over Chris from the busted pump. John scanned the rubbish of the shop. He saw a small shining lighter and picked it up from the wreckage. He struck it. The small lighter sparked and left a small trail of smoke in the air. Chris's growls became weaker as almost a whimper. John stared at the beast as his anger and pain filled his soul. John struck the lighter again, a small flame unburied itself from the dust. The pounding in Johns head muffled over his own growls. Chris took a deep forceful breath. "You are no better than the rest of us" Chris gasped in pain. John ignored his words. "Burn!" John screamed tossing the lighter on Chris's massive bloody chest. Flames erupted in a flash and covered his body. Chris screamed as the flames ran across the docks. John saw the pumps and jumped back with the rest of his strength. The pumps ignited and exploded, sending flames and shrapnel in all directions. John hit the water as the flames passed over him. John could feel the heat of the fire. A cloud of blood floated around him. He knew the beast had done serious damage. The sounds of sirens echoed in the water. It wouldn't be long until others arrive, he knew that. He knew he needed help. John pulled himself to the shore and began climbing up the rocky mountain side. His hands began to numb from the cracked bones. His legs gave away from the pressure. He knew Lacie was waiting on him. He could sense the fear in the air. He felt the grass under his bruised hands as he pulled himself to the top of the cliff. The solid dirt underneath him almost felt like sanctuary. The pain in his head and chest was numbing him. He raised himself to his feet and saw Lacie and Brad resting against the car still holding Ashley. He forced himself to walk. His breath shortened when he saw the blood. Blood surrounded Ashley and covered her legs. He took off running forgetting about the broken bones and the extreme pain. Tears filled Lacie’s and Brad’s eyes. John dropped next to Ashley. Her eyes were wide with pain. Her skin had grown pail. Lacie shook her head and rested it on Johns shoulder. The pain rushed back to him. "A fire truck and ambulance are on the way" he said gasping. "And what do we tell them?!" Brad cried in anger. Brad’s voice cracked behind his cries. "Jesus Christ. You're still blue. What are they going to do to you when they find out that you're an alien and she was impregnated by one" Brad screamed at John. John laid his head back in pain. The loss of blood made him weak. He strained and grunted as his skin faded back. Dark bruises formed all over him. His eyes became blood shot as the light blue iris formed. The ice shards cracked and fell off of his wrists and elbows. The ringing in his ears could not drown out the sounds of the sirens. His blood started to feel cold on Lacie’s arm. "John. John!" Lacie screamed as Johns eyes closed and his breathing seemed to stop. John could hear the sirens start to fade. He took a deep breath and fell on his side. He couldn't hear or see anything but the ringing in his ears and the flashes in his eyes. He knew his body was being moved but he couldn't tell how it felt like he was lifted straight off the ground. He knew time was passing. He knew he wasn't near Lacie or anyone else. The space around him felt enclosed and tight. Johns mind raced for any possible reason. "Am I dead?" He thought to himself trying to move. The ringing began to break in sound, almost like a steady fast beep. The flashes in his eyes slowed to a constant bright light. His lungs felt heavy with the first full breath. He slowly clenched his fist and felt a sharp pain in the center of his hand. It was just enough to catch his full attention. He forced his eyes opened but the bright lights above him made it hard to see. He grunted as he stretched his back. It cracked and popped all the way down. "God that felt good." He moaned sitting up. He popped his neck and swung his legs over the edge of the bed. The pain in his hand felt like he was being stabbed. He saw a small needle and tube pierced in his hand. He slowly pulled it from his hand and ripped off the small white band around his wrist. A clear bag was hung from the post next to him. "I might need those" he said pulling his pants and shoes from the bag. He quickly got dressed and noticed his clothes were blood stained but still felt clean and dry. He peaked through the small window and saw just a few people walking around. He quickly stepped out and casually walked down the halls. He made his way to the waiting room. He saw Lacie asleep across a couch. He kneeled down next to her and moved her hair from her face. She awoke and jumped on John. "Are you okay?" She almost cried. "You've been out for almost three days". She said running her fingers over his fresh scars. John smiled. "I feel amazing. How about we get out of here" he said smiling. She kissed him and took his hand. They made their way out of the hospital. The night air was refreshing for John. "What are we going to do now?" She asked. John sat down on a curb and stared at his hands. He remembered the blast that sent the beast flying. He felt his hands grow cold. He could feel the dust forming in his hands. He knew that he had learned something new. He concentrated making the dust form pressure in his hands. "I'm not sure but I know what I want to do" he smiled at Lacie. Lacie smile back at him. "You know you can see Ori-Thione every time the moon is full like that" he said squeezing the dust. Lacie stared at the moon trying to find it. "I don't see it" Lacie said turning to John. John was on one knee and took her hand. Lacie began to cry. He uncurled his fingers and raised a bright ring. The band was a clear blue. The top consisted of a light blue pearl with diamonds in the center. Around the edges had small crystals with tiny blue specks. The dust continued to hover around it. "You have given me the strength and the power to make this. No matter all the diamonds and crystals I can forge into this, nothing will ever be as beautiful as you" John whispered letting his voice split into the sounds that Lacie had come to enjoy. "I want to spend the rest of my life with you, Lacie. I love you more than all the dust in all of existence. Will you be my life partner? Will you be my wife?" John’s voice was the only thing Lacie could hear. Tears fell from her face. "Yes!" She cried. John slipped the ring over her finger. It felt cold on her hand. John stood up and kissed her. The world felt like it had stopped for them Lacie could feel his heart beat in his chest. She knew that he could protect her and she knew her life has just gotten better. Lacie could feel John’s blood flood through his body when she held him. "Come on. Let's get out of here" she said smiling and winking at John. His eyes widened. "I would love to" he said winking back. He took her hand and began walking down the main road. The road that leads to the place where he showed his true self. The road to the hotel. They both knew what was going to happen next and they both couldn't wait.
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125,005 Literary Works • 672,801 Reviews
Hello, isham101.
One of the things I must say about this from first glance is that it is very long. Almost too long to read. 36000+ words is too much to read at once, without breaks or losing your place. Heck, this is about the length of a novella -- meaning it might be better suited for chapters. Or just for parts. (Maybe 2,000 words per part in order to maintain the reader's attention without boring them.)
Another is that this really needs paragraphs. Without paragraphs, the reader's eyes drift off the page and lose their place. And now that they have lost their place, it's difficult to regain it because, "Where was I?" Then they grow uninterested they may click off to another work to read. (Though, I'm not sure if there are no paragraphs because of a formatting error or something else.)
There are some tense errors in this too. Mainly it's easy to spot them because of the use of the word 'can' a lot. According to a quick Google search, 'can' is third person present. Perhaps the word 'could' may be better suited for this, since it is for the past tense, and a majority of this story looks to be written in the past.
The first half of that sentence is one tense and the second half is another. That brings the reader out of the story, just jolted. 'Are now scanning' brings them to the present, while the first half happily left them in the past. Maybe it would be better, "...and scanned the entire..."
There needs to be some sort of punctuation before that ending quotation mark.
People say that the first 250 words are the most important in the story. It gives the aura of the story and who the character is. Well, I'm about 1000 words in and I am extremely confused. Jonathon clearly has Christian morals, and he's... running from something? Apart of an organization?
Nothing taking? Jonathon said something about how 'thou shalt not steal' but then rummages through a house, kicking down a dresser, and saying that there is nothing worth taking. It's like his character and his morals just shifted with warning.
I wish you luck on writing this story, because with some polishing this could be even better.
~Adrian
Okay, the length I can deal with, but I had trouble actually reading this. Paragraphs? If you could maybe republish this in a few shorter parts, that would be great. Also whenever a new person speaks, you must begin a new paragraph. Unless the characters are speaking in unison, dialogue that is separated by a change in whomever is speaking must be in different paragraphs. I apologize that this review has nothing to do with the story line, but separate the paragraphs and trim this down into shorter parts and I will come back and review the story line. Also welcome to YWS!!!