Though I only slept for a few hours. I had scattered dreams. I got flashes of shapes and echos of sounds. One dream broke through. I was in the woods, in a white dress, and my hands and feet were scratched up. I was breathless from running and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't catch my breath. I looked back and saw smoke. A fire perhaps? I heard loud sounds...gunfire? Then a roar, someone called out my name only it wasn't my name, not anymore. Dogs viciously barked and I knew they'd be on me soon.
I tried to find some place to hide or way to escape, but deep down I knew there was no escaping him! Suddenly, I saw an opening under a tree, a hole! I dug my fingers into it, pulling away mud, leaves, and other debris. I managed to climb under the tree, only to fall into darkness. Then suddenly, I was back among the trees. I spun in place unsure of which way to go. I felt like something was closing in on me. Shadows suddenly fell over the entire forest and I gasped, knowing he was here. He'd found me!
I woke before my alarm and sat up disoriented. It was a strange dream, but just that. I went about my normal morning. I took a shower; washing extra now that I knew I might be intimate with someone. I put on perfume then my best underwear and bra. I got fully dressed and brushed out my hair. Dad was at work and mom was in the kitchen reading a magazine. I had a smile on my face as I strode into the kitchen and packed myself a lunch for work.
Mom side-eyed me and said. "You look happy."
"That's because I am!"
"Did you consider what we talked about last night?"
"Not gonna happen." I said, "I'll get her something. I'll get my own place, but I'm not taking out a loan."
"Eh, your credits probably not recovered anyway," She let out a sigh, then turned the page in her magazine. "You need to handle your money better."
Says the women who just told me to take out a loan. I didn't say a word. I just kept smiling as I danced around the kitchen; getting everything packed for work. Nothing was going to rain on my parade today! I went to my room to pack a few last minute things and my mother followed me.
She stood in the doorway of my room, and looked at me suspiciously before she asked."What do you really know about this guy?"
"Enough," I said.
"I honestly don't think you should be dating anyone right now."
"It was just one date," I said, but I had a feeling there would be more, especially given the way he looked at me when I left. I smiled even wider.
"Still, it isn't right. You've been through a lot. You should take some more time."
I should take more time, this coming from the women who wanted me up and out of this house so badly, she locked me out."You're the one who wanted me to get out."
"And find a job, you need stability, Mindolin and with the baby coming, there is too much going on right now."
I tried not to respond anymore. I felt like she was trying to lure me into a fight, but I wasn't getting into it with her, not today. I felt amazing and hoped to keep this feeling for as long as I could. I was just so excited about everything! It was a struggle not to leave early. I couldn't wait to get to work and see him! I had no idea how I was going to hide my feelings. I was definitely going to find out if I could really act or not.
I let out a heavy sigh, hoping for the best either way. I grabbed the rest of my things and headed out the front door. I rushed down the stairs, and didn't get more then a few steps, before I heard someone let out a loud whistle. I curiously looked around and saw... IT WAS HIM!
He was wearing the same outfit from yesterday, only with sunglasses on. He had more blue roses in his arms, and held them out to me as he walked over, and said, "Good morning, my lady!"
My jaw dropped, I didn't expect to see him here and now. He reached out and grabbed hold of my arm. Without warning, he pulled me in and passionately kissed me. My eyes lit up with surprise before I gave into it. I closed my eyes as he deepened the kiss. I swear I could have melted right then and there.
When we pulled apart, he didn't let go of my arm. He took me to his car and I don't even remember getting in. We were already driving down the street, when I snapped out of my daze. I looked down at the roses in my lap then over at him. He picked something out of his teeth, then adjusted his sunglasses as he waited for a light to turn.
"What are you doing here?" I asked, realizing it was probably a bit late to ask that.
He chucked, then said, "I couldn't wait to see you, and since we're both going in, I thought we could go together."
"What if I'd already left? You had no idea when I leave. How long were you out there?"
"Not long."
"Did you deliver the roses and chocolates this morning?"
"I dropped them off," he said, before yawning.
"Wait! So you dropped them off first thing this morning and came back?"
"Yep." I shook my head, thinking that was insane. He turned to me, then asked, "Did you enjoy the chocolates?"
"The ones that I got,"
"What does that mean?" he asked, turning a corner.
"My dad got to them first."
"What!" he said, giving me a look, his eyebrows furrowed.
"He didn't know who they were for."
"It had a card!"
"Yeah well, he didn't see it." I didn't' want to get in to the fact that they didn't believe they could possibly be for me. "And he has a sweet tooth,"
"Still," Wren said, gripping the steering wheel tightly, "He shouldn't have taken it. If I give you a present, I expect you to get it."
"It's fine really. I got them eventually."
"Eventually," he huffed. He did not look happy.
"Really." I said, brushing his arm, "It's okay.
He let out a sigh, but calmed down. "Alright, but you have to let me get you another box."
"If you insist, but I do need to fit into my costume."
"Don't worry," he said with a grin, "I'm sure we'll find some way to keep you active."
"Oh," I said blushing. It was silly, I'd been in other relationships before, but this one felt so new and different. Maybe because he was older then me. Wait, how much older was he? "Umm."
"What?" he said.
"Sorry, but how old are you?"
"Ah, trying to date me," He teased.
"A little. I'm twenty two."
"I was twenty two once," he teased, letting his answer linger for a minute or two before he said, "I'm twenty-nine. Is that a problem for you?"
"No! Twenty nine is only seven years."
"Yep," he said, taking a turn.
We were nearly there. I let out a pleasant sigh and looked down at the roses. I ran my fingers over the soft petals then looked at him. I wondered what we were now, and what things were going to be like going forward, especially at work.
I bit my lip and timidly asked. "So uh, what do we do now?"
"Do?"
"Yeah. Like at work and stuff? I've never been with anyone I've worked with before."
"Ah, well personally I think we should be careful."
"Careful?"
"Yes. You know how they love to gossip at work and how easily rumors can get out of hand."
"Definitely," I nodded.
"Well, until we decide what this is, we should just act like coworkers, nothing more, nothing less."
That sounded reasonable and smart. I'd already had my fair share of workplace gossip. I let out a sigh, then recalled Leslie's latest plans.
He picked up on my annoyance and asked "What?"
"Nothing." I said, then thought I'd better give him a heads up. "I was just-I was just thinking of Leslie, she plans to work with you."
"Oh." he said, his face falling flat.
"Yeah, Sandie told me George asked Frances to put her in a few scenes with you."
He let out a sharp laugh, "Don't worry my love. We wont be working together anytime soon. In my opinion, there is only one person for the Dark Knight and I, and that's you."
"You're sweet." I said, thinking he was trying to reassure me. "But I understand, it's work and you go wherever the plot goes."
"To an extent, the writing has to make sense. The Dark Knight wouldn't suddenly have a tea party with the Royal Ruby Family or start clucking like a chicken."
"I guess not," I said, picturing both scenarios. It put a smile on my face, before I bit my lip and continued "I just, I don't want you to think I'm jealous or controlling, because I'm not, like I understand. I just wanted to give you a heads up...given everything with her."
He chuckled, "Don't apologize for wanting to protect what's yours. I know I wont." He suddenly got a dark look in his eyes and it sent a chill down my spine. He parked the car and I started to get out, only to realize we weren't in the right parking lot.
"Uhh, this isn't work."
"No, it is not," he said, pulling out a cigarette. He put it in his mouth and lit it.
"Oh! You smoke!" I said, surprised. I couldn't tell, like when I kissed him or the smell of his car. I'd dated someone who smoked once and his mouth had tasted off and you could always smell it everywhere.
"Yeah, I know, it's a nasty habit," he said, pulling the cigarette out of his mouth. He stared at it as he continued, "But there are much worse things for you." He got this far off look in his eyes. Before he put his cigarette back in his mouth and took in a drag. He let it out and I noticed the smoke was sweet. I had thought that was a new car smell or something. I guess the car did smell like smoke after all.
I got back on topic. "So uh, why are we parked here?"
"If we don't want people taking, we shouldn't arrive together."
"Oh right," I said, "That's smart. I didn't think of that."
He chuckled, then looked forward and nodded, "Darrow's Park is just across the street."
I saw it now. I just wasn't used to coming at it from this side. "Yeah, I see the spires. So uh, what do we do at work? Just not talk?"
"No," he said, "Just treat me like any other co-worker. After work, meet me here, and I'll take you to dinner and then just take you,"
He said it so casually. I let out a sound I'd never heard before. I didn't know what that was, but quickly adjusted myself and said, "Listen, about yesterday, I don't want you to get the wrong idea. I don't normally sleep with people on the first date, or in a car outside my apartment."
I cringed thinking about it now and he smiled. "Last night was fantastic! You have nothing to be ashamed of. I don't think any less of you, if anything, it only makes me want you more."
"Really." I said,
"Yes. I like that you know what you want and don't get hung up on social stigmas."
"Hmp, I only wish I didn't care. It would be nice, but honestly I worry too much about what others think."
"You shouldn't. All that matters is what you think. You're the one that has to live with your choices."
"I suppose."
We stared at each other for a minute or two, then I opened my door, "Well, I guess I'll see you around then."
"I suppose," he said, then got a big grin on his face.
I smiled back at him, then recalled the roses, "Oh! Should I leave the roses in your car or take them in?"
"Take them in. Put them in some water and leave them at your station."
"Oh, they would look good there, but I don't have a vase or anything."
"It's fine," he said."They'd still do better inside then in the car."
"Right, well thank you again, they're lovely, but you really don't need to get me a dozen each day."
"Would you like two dozen a day?"
"No," I said, thinking he had to be joking, "This is plenty!"
"Not for you," he said, "I'd give you the world, if you asked for it."
I didn't know what to say to that. I blushed then gave him a wave before I shut the door. I walked to the crosswalk and used the light to cross the street. I assumed he'd pull out of the other parking lot and park in the Darrow's lot, but when I looked back he was still there. I guess he wanted to sit for a bit, maybe finish his smoke. I made my way to the front gate and there was a small line before I got inside. I put my things in my locker, save for my roses. I took a moment to smell them then clocked in. As I was walking away from the time clock someone cleared their throat and I saw it was him. He gave me a sly smirk before he clocked in.
"Lovely morning," he said, then as he passed he continued, "Nice roses."
I smirked back at him and watched him walk off down the hall. I breathed them in again, then went to the dressing room. I set the flowers at my station and checked the time. It was half an hour before noon. I noticed a few others getting ready. I thought I didn't know anyone, but saw Amanda at her station, eating a granola bar.
I was in such a good mood that I felt like being social. Which was wild for me. "Hey," I said, walking over to her.
"Hi," she said back. She looked at me and then to my roses, "Oh, those are pretty!"
"Yeah!"
She got up from her station and asked "They from someone special or a fan?"
"A fan," I said, though my cheeks got hot.
"Right." she said, giving me a wink.
"I need to find something to put them in. I thought I'd keep them at my station. At least for today."
Amanda nodded, then lit up, "You know what, I think I might have something. Give me a second." She went back to her station and looked around. She picked up a red glass candle holder and handed it to me,"It used to be a candle, but it's all gone now. I'm sure if you washed it out you could do something with it."
"I could," I said. I took a closer look at it. The glass had cool lumps all over it and was also frosted. "It's lovely.
"Ehh, I picked it up at a restaurant."
"Oh," I said, thinking they must have been selling them.
"Yeah!." she said. "You can get loads of stuff!. They just leave it sitting out. I've been collecting a nice set of dishes. I almost have a full set,"
"Cool," I said. I honestly didn't know what else to say to that.
She grabbed her costume and went to change. I grabbed mine as well and changed in the curtain next to her. We got out about the same time and I asked "So how long have you been fire breathing?"
"Legally?" she asked
"Legally!" I said confused, "Is it illegal, without a license or something?" I hadn't even considered that.
"Nah, but certain ages are frowned upon." said Amanda.
"Oh," I said
"I've probably been doing it since I was eleven."
"Oh wow, that is young!"
"Ehh, I've been playing with fire since I could walk."
"Since you could walk!" I gasped in disbelief. My mother wouldn't even trust me with matches until I was seventeen.
"Yeah, well my families a little different" she said casually.
"That's got to be a little dangerous?"
"Not really, it depends on how you treat it. You wouldn't leave a kid alone with scissors but you still teach them how to use it. You make sure they know it's dangerous and they have to be careful or they'll get cut, or in fires case burned.
"I suppose," I said, but it still seemed kind of young to me. "Fire wasn't something we went near as kids. Probably because my brother blew his thumb off, playing with fireworks."
"Oh that sucks to lose a thumb! My uncle lost both of his, it wasn't to fire, but gambling. Unpaid bets will get you ever time,"
"Oh both! That has to be hard!"
She laughed, "Ehh, I'm sure it was at first, but he uses it in his act now. He works with alligators. He tells everyone he lost his first thumb to one, and then his second thumb when he tried to show people how he lost his first thumb. It always gets a few laughs."
"Wild!" I said, "But you know what they say, if life give you lemons, you make fruit punch."
"What!" said Amanda. She gave me a look, "I never heard that. Isn't it suppose to be lemonade or something."
I shrugged, "My grandmother used to say it all the time. Just because life gives you lemons doesn't mean you got to use um, let alone to make lemonade. Why not make fruit punch."
"You know I've had fruit punch with lemons, it's pretty good. Mind if I use that. I love how it sounds."
"Go for it," I said. "You got me this kick ass vase,"
We both smiled at each other. I had a minute or two, so I cleaned the vase up, in a nearby sink. Amanda suggested I use the hottest water to get any residue off and it worked. I let the water cool down, then added my roses to it and put everything at my station. It looked absolutely lovely! Roses from my guy and a vase from a co-worker, who might just be a friend. It was another nice day! I lit up as I checked the time once more then left the room.
I got my radio and headed to my starting point. Again I wondered how I was going to handle this. I really needed to act like the Dark Knight was a stranger. Technically he still was,, but given what we did last night, I was also more familiar with him then most. I coughed for a second, clearing my throat as I thought about last night. I let out a pleasant sigh and shook my head. I needed to think of something and fast. I suppose I could just pretend I'd suddenly got amnesia or something. Whatever I used for my headspace I just needed to not turn into a tomato.
I got into position and counted down the remaining seconds. Just before I went out, I wondered what if he couldn't hide his feelings either. I suppose he'd have a better chance them me, given he was wearing full armor. I opened the door and stepped out into the courtyard. We had a lot of guests, but it wasn't crazy like last week. It was also noon on a Tuesday. I assumed the numbers wouldn't keep up. We were no longer the newest attraction. ` The first set went by like a blip. It was like muscle memory after so many shows. We had only one tweak. After each show, he was suppose to throw several roses into the crowd as people were tramping each other to get one. His horse now had a little basket on it's saddle with roses. The colors varied from white, to red and yellow, but I noticed none of them were blue, like the ones he gave me personally.
I think overall I was decent. I got a little thrill every time I turned and saw him, but I kept it under wraps. There were a few moments when I might have smiled more then I should have, given I shouldn't be smiling at all. I also almost forgot to slap him once or twice. I think he picked up on it, because he started getting rougher. He'd jerk me to him and pull my hair, when he tangled his fingers in it, for the big kiss. It made me want to slap him and I might have hit him a bit too hard at one point.
After the last show of the first set, I clocked out and was hoping to see him between shows, but I didn't. I mostly chilled in the breakroom reading magazines. The next shows came and went. Again there weren't too many people. It was kind of nice. I didn't have to watch where I was going every second.
I took a light afternoon snack, on the rooftop before the last set. I read some, then clocked in and got ready. Just before I went on, I admired my flowers once more. I ran my fingers over the soft petals and breathed them in. I couldn't wait to take them home and add them to the others. I was pretty sure my mom was going to freak, but maybe I could just say they were the same ones, and I was just giving them some air. I laughed to myself and doubted she'd buy that, but it was worth a shot.
I got into position and noticed we had more guests this time. The first three shows went fine. On the fourth show, I started to think about what we'd do after and I think the excitement started to leak through, especially in the last show. My voice got a little high as I delivered my lines. I had to really focus to finish. Once we had, I raced to turn in my radio and my mind lit up with possibilities. I wondered where we'd go and what we'd do. I was so caught up in everything that I missed it...at first.
I didn't realize until after I had changed. I made sure all my things were put away, then checked myself out in the mirror. I wanted to make sure I looked good for our second date. I smiled at my reflection, then realized my roses were gone. I furrowed my brow and looked around the room. I'd seen them just an hour ago. Had someone moved them...or taken them? Surly not! I frantically looked about and that's when I saw something on the floor, near the trash. A flower petal with some gold.
I rushed over to the can and found they hadn't been taken...they'd been destroyed. I gasped crouching down. I saw the petals had been crushed and the red glass Amanda had given me was shattered. For a second I reached for them, but came to my senses and pulled my hand back. I knew there was nothing I could do….I couldn't fix this.
Tears welled up in my eyes and I quickly wiped them away, telling myself I was being silly. It- It was probably an accident! Maybe I'd kept them too close to the edge of the table and someone had bumped them over by accident. No. I shook my head. Roses didn't get crushed up from falling on the floor! The candle holder should have taken a bit to break, given how thick the glass was and that it had once been in a restaurant. The plates at my mother's diner were more durable, given how often they fell. I assumed restaurant candle holders would be too.
Look at me, crouched over the trash playing detective! I didn't have time for games. I needed to clock out, he was waiting for me. I felt disheartened, but I got up and clocked out. I got my stuff and walked outside. As I crossed the parking lot, I didn't ask who, but rather why? I had a feeling I knew who had done this. At least I had three very popular choices. Maybe security could check the cameras, but I didn't know. I just- I didn't want to cause trouble again. They were just roses and I had more at home. Still, the candle holder had been nice. What was I going to tell Amanda?
I got across the street before I knew it and saw Wren leaning against the hood of his car, smoking a cigarette. Even though it was dark out he had sunglasses on. When I was only a few steps away, he put out his cigarette, popped a mint, and stepped up to me. "What are you in the mood for tonight?
I tried to play it cool. "Whatever is fine, something cheaper, so I can help pay."
"It's on me,"
"Not again, I couldn't." I said, shaking my head. "Please, you have to let me pay or at least go half on something."
"Relax," he said, wrapping his arms around me, "Tell you what, we wont go anywhere expensive, but you have to let me pay."
"Okay," I said. I wasn't in the mood to argue.
He smiled then tilted his head. He grabbed my chin and gently turned my head from side to side, "What is it?
"What's what?"
"You've been crying."
"No," I lied.
"Yes," he said, "Out with it, did someone make you cry again?"
"No," I said, but my voice didn't come out very confident.
"Mindolin," he said, sternly. Just like my mother, when I was in trouble.
I grabbed his hand and pulled it from my chin, "Please don't call me that."
"I wont," he said, "But you have to tell me,"
I pursed my lips and suppose I could report it, but again it was just flowers. He snapped his fingers in front of my face, getting my attention, "Mindy Min."
"Mindy Min? What's that? I laughed. Was he trying to give me a pet name?
"Don't change the subject. What happened? Speak!"
"It's nothing. I'll deal with it tomorrow."
"What is nothing!" he demanded, grabbing the sides of my arms.
He was so concerned, so protective, "I- Well- Today-" I had to look away from him, even with his sunglasses on, I still felt his gaze was so intense. "Just now, I went to look for my roses and they were gone-"
"Gone where?" he cut me off.
I licked my lips then continued, "I found them, but they were in the trash. Someone had crushed up the petals and, this morning Amanda gave me a candle holder to put them in, and it was shattered too."
"Who is Amanda?"
"A friend, she does the fire breathing. She was super nice,"
"Alright so the roses were crushed up, the candle holder smashed and it was all in the trash?"
"It could have been an accident. Maybe?"
He scoffed. It was clear he didn't think so either. He turned away from me, looking back at Darrow's Park. "Did you report it?"
"No, I just clocked out, I knew you were waiting for me."
"Okay," he said, nodding. I could see he was thinking.
"Do you think I should? Maybe they could check the cameras."
"Maybe," he said, wiping his mouth. "It's cold, let's get into the car and get something to eat."
"Okay," I said.
He walked me to the car, like I was fragile or something. He opened my door, helped me into my seat and even bucked me in again. He started the car and turned on the headlights. He pulled out of the parking lot a bit fast and I could see he was upset.
"Where did you want to go?"
"Maybe some place with burgers and fries or sandwiches."
He nodded and took off down the street. I thought he'd picks some place nearby, but he didn't. We drove for a few minutes as he weaved in and out of traffic. He pursed his lips a few times and looked annoyed. We eventually pulled into a Blimbies Sandwich Shop parking lot. Before we got out, he grabbed my arm.
"Don't report it!"
"Don't?" I repeated.
"Yeah, they probably didn't catch it on camera."
"Do you think it could be Leslie and her friends?"
"That's exactly why you shouldn't report it."
"Oh," I said.
"You can't be certain and they probably know you can't be certain. After all the rumors and everything, you reporting someone smashing your flowers, would just start up more rumors."
"Yeah, I guess so, but what do I do?"
"Wait."
"Wait?
"Yes and see what their next move is?"
"Oh," I said, "But it also might not be them."
"It might not," he said, "But at least this way if it is, you're not playing into their trap."
"You think it might be a trap?"
"Only time will tell," he said, then smiled, "Now let's eat."
"Okay," I said.
We went inside and didn't talk about it again. We ordered, sandwiches, chips, cookies and drinks. I got fruit punch. It seemed fitting. We found a nice booth and he sat next to me, rather then across from me. It didn't take long for our food to come out. We pretty much had the whole place to ourselves. He asked me what movies and TV shows I liked. I mostly talked and he nodded.
When we were done eating, he asked me what I liked best. I told him the pickles tasted really good. He got up and went to the front counter. He ordered me a paper bag of pickles. I couldn't believe him. I tugged on his arm and asked what I was going to do with a bag of pickles. He smiled and said eat them of course, unless it wasn't enough. He supposed he could see if they had an entire jar. I protested and took the bag of pickles. I ate them as we drove around.
When they were gone, I insisted he stop buying me things, but again he wanted me to know how much he valued me. I told him spending time with me was enough. He told me we'd do that too, not for the rest of our lives, but eternity. He kept making little comments like that. I wasn't sure if he was trying to be funny or reassuring, given my past. Either way, it made me feel uneasy. I felt like he was trying to get me to let my guard down and trust him...trust this, but it was far too soon. I knew I needed to say something sooner rather then later.
"Could you not say stuff like that,"
"Like what?" he asked.
"That you and I will be together forever."
"I'm certain of it." he sad without a double.
"You're certain, on what, our second date!"
"Oh no, well before tonight!" he boasted, "I knew from the moment I saw you!"
"And when was that?" I asked.
He looked at me, but didn't say anything. He focused on the road, and a moment later, he took a turn. I looked around and realized I was home, already. I let out a heavy sigh. I hadn't expected things to be over so soon.
"What?" he asked.
"I don't want our date to be over so soon."
"Who says it has to be. I'm sure we could find something to do." he parked the car, then put the seats back.
"On no buster!" I protested, "We're not doing that again, not in the car, especially outside my apartment."
He frowned, "Why not? What is different about tonight? Can't I even have a kiss or two, three, four, five-"He came at me and began kissing my lips, then trailed off to my cheek, neck and shoulder,
"No! You can't fool me! That's how this started last time!" I protested, "I swear I'll get pickle juice all over you!" I hissed, waving around the empty pickle bag.
"I'd gladly endure it to be with you! There is nothing that could keep us apart!"
"There you go again!"
"What!" he said, pulling back.
"You- You're too intense! We need to slow things down!" I said.
The car was dark, but there was enough light from the parking lot lights and passing cars that I could see he was not happy. He stared at me with those ice blue eyes of his, then let out a heavy sigh and pulled away.
He stared forward, pouting. "I can't help it! When it comes to you I can't hold back!"
He came at me again and I didn't protest this time as he kissed me all over. Some of them really tickled and I laughed. He couldn't help himself and I didn't have the heart to keep protesting! Honestly, I couldn't help myself either. I knew one of us had to be reasonable, but clearly neither of us were. His kisses intensified and soon enough I let go completely.
I swear in less then a minute, I was naked with my ankles at my ears and he was madly pumping into me. Uhhh, I had no restrain but oh was it just as good as yesterday, if not more so because I knew what to expect! I knew what it felt like to have him quaking between my legs and I couldn't get enough.
It didn't take me long to hit my limit. I came quick and hard. The entire car shook with the force of us as I cried out, a bit too loud. I covered my mouth and could hear some dogs barking in the distance. I was so embarrassed, but he just laughed and covered me in in more kisses. He kept going and our bodies felt like they were made for one another, perfectly smashing together.
He let my legs drop down and I wrapped them and my arms around him, clinging to him for dear life as he went into over drive. Before long, I was moaning as a wave of pleasure washed over me. Oh I loved it! Loved everything! The way he fucked, his hands in my hair, on my breasts and those ice blue eyes of his ignited with such passion.
We locked eyes for a moment and then he kissed me, really kissed me! The kind of kiss you don't easily forget. This had to be one of the best. I honestly couldn't get enough of him. He built me back up again and I shamelessly cried out, "Uh yes, fuck me, fuck me harder!"
He smiled, watching me completely come apart beneath him, begging to be drilled into oblivion and teased, "As you wish my lady!"
I tangled my fingers in his hair and brought myself up to passionately kiss him as he grinded me out. The leather seat squeaking from the weight of our bodies colliding in bliss. I let out several whimpers as I threw my head back and came hard, my muscles pulsed and squeezed against his raw cock!
"FUCK!"
"What?"
"We forgot a condom again!"
"I wouldn't say forgot!" he teased, then pumped into me, a nice, long, hard stroke. Oh it felt amazing! "I wouldn't want anything to take away from this, would you?"
"But I could, you know-"
"Fall in love with me," he smirked.
I shook my head. He had to know what I meant. He wasn't a stupid man, but was I ever a stupid women. We kept going and I let him cum inside me again. He was just as loud as the other night. I watched his face scrunch up and his eyes went glossy before he stiffened and I felt the warmth between my legs. There was just so much of it! I felt like he was filling me up. When he pulled back, it was already bubbling out between my legs. I quickly grabbed some napkins from dinner and cleaned myself up.
"We've got to stop doing this, here and like this!" I said.
He just smiled at me. He was gone...far too gone to have any kind of conversation. He was just looking at me like he was in love again. I looked at the time, then thought I'd better get out of here before I made any more poor life decisions. I gave him a quick peck, got my stuff and went inside.
My parents were still up and barely waved at me as they watched the nightly news. I took a hot bath and tried to clean up even more. I hoped that would help some, but I doubted it. I rushed to my room and turned on the light. I heard a car horn a second later. I opened my window and looked out. I saw his car drive by as he circled the complex. I shook my head and went to bed.
The next morning I left early and found him waiting for me in the parking lot with two dozen roses. I shook my head, but jumped into his arms. We kissed and then he drove us around. We parked somewhere secluded and I thought we'd just make out, but I ended up riding him into fruition. It was unexpected and got messy. I had to clean up in the bathroom before shift.
I put my roses in my locker and kept an eye out for anyone who might be upset with me. The first show went by as usual and I clocked out. I was still so worked up about yesterday that I forgot it was Wednesday, and Sandie had signed me up for that class. I was in the breakroom when I heard my name over the loudspeaker. I was told to call a number and used the closest phone.
A women told me I was suppose to be in room two-oh-three, near the orientation room. I quickly clocked in, then ran upstairs. On my way to the room, I passed Manger Herb's office as he was shutting the door. I caught a glimpse of Wren. He was sitting in a chair in front of Herb's desk. He looked so serious. I don't think he saw me. I wondered if he was signing more paperwork or if something happened. I'd have to ask him about it later.
I got to the room and the instructor introduced herself as Joice. She already had the room set up like a fan service. We didn't have much time so we jumped right into things. We talked about emotions and expression. I must always keep up appearances, no matter how I was feeling. In a sense, I should always be acting. First as my character and second as a public version of myself.
She suggested I practice various expressions in a mirror at home. We went over proper posture and taking a breath, to the count of three before answering any question. It gave me time to think and look like I was really considering every question, even if I already knew how I was going to answer. When it came to questions. I never had to answer anything too personal or unsettling. I should always ask myself does my response add anything or take it away, and most importantly, how would it affect Darrow's and the other characters.
She taught me how to stay on topic and pivot back to my character and Darrow's, if things got off track. If I was ever truly uncertain about anything, it was always better to stay silent, rather then getting something wrong. I felt like it was a lot to go over, but she gave me a printout of everything we covered, along with some books I could take home and keep, to further my understanding of public relations.
At the end of the class, she pretended to be various fans and tested what I had learned.
She'd correct me and show me where I could improve. When we were finished she had me sign a piece of paper, stating that I'd taken the class. After I had to run back to the dressing room to get changed. Overall, I was glad Sandie had signed me up for the class. I felt a lot better about things. I'd see some videos during orientation, but the class had gone into more detail and given me little tips and tricks. I also liked that I had some books I could look over at home.
I put everything in my locker, checked on my roses, then got changed with a few minutes to spare. I swear out of all my jobs, I felt like this one had the most opportunity for self-improvement. I hoped to be working here a while, but if I someday I wasn't, then at least I'd learned a lot of things that could be useful.
We did our second show, then I spent the break looking over the materials Joice had given me, while I ate an orange. We had a larger crowd for our last show and it went by fairly smoothly. Again, I got excited about getting off. However when I got to my station, I found a letter waiting for me. I was a little worried. I cautiously opened it and found it was from Wren. He had to stay late and told me to get some ice cream at the burger place. He even left five dollars for me. I swear he wouldn't let me pay for anything. I shook my head and wondered if him staying late had anything to do with earlier.
I got changed, clocked out and grabbed everything from my locker. Then I went across the street to the burger place. I got myself some ice cream and french fries. I figured he'd be an hour, maybe two, but several hours passed. I began to worry something had happened. When the manager let me know they'd be closing soon, I wondered what I should do. I checked the time and realized I might have to take the bus. First, I should walk back to Darrow's and see if his car was still in the parking lot.
I gathered my things and went outside. It was raining. It wasn't ideal, but the water might help my roses. I didn't get more then a few steps before I saw his car pulling up. He got out and quickly rushed to me. We embraced and he saw I had the roses from this morning. He took them and walked me to his car. I got in and he put everything in the backseat before getting into the drier's seat.
As we were pulling out of the parking lot, I asked, "Is everything okay?"
"Couldn't be better. Why do you ask?"
"You had to work super late,"
"Yeah, had to sign a bunch of paperwork for the new position and writer's wanted to talk."
"Oh," I said, understanding "I stayed pretty late my first night. What did you talk about?"
"Can't say, spoilers," he said.
"Oh okay,"
"Did you get yourself some ice cream?"
"And french fries."
"You still hungry?"
"Yeah, but its kind of late, most places are closed or closing."
"Yeah," he nodded. I thought he'd try to convince me to go to a diner or something, but he drove me straight home.
We parked and I made it clear, "No sex tonight."
"How about snuggles. I missed you."
"I missed you too and I guess we could snuggle for a little bit."
He turned on some music and we leaned into each another for a few minutes. We didn't really talk and I noticed he started to fall asleep. He still had to drive home and I knew how dangerous that could be. I knew he'd protest so I didn't give him much of a chance."I gotta go to the bathroom."
"Hmm," he said, waking up.
"Let's call it a night, okay,"
"Okay," he said.
He was tired," Be safe and careful. Maybe call me when you get home."
"It will be late," he said.
"How far away do you live?"
He was mid yawn and seemed to wake up more. He looked at me, then shut his mouth," I'd better getting going, might pick up some coffee."
"Okay," I said, but noticed he hadn't answered.
"Night," he said. He looked like he was about to drive off as soon as I shut the door.
"Uh, just let me grab everything from the backseat," I reminded him.
"Oh yeah," he said.
I left my door open, then opened the backseat door. I got the roses and my stuff, then shut the door and went back to my door. I stared at him for a moment as he seemed lost in thought. I eventually said night and he just nodded. I shut the door and watched him pull out of the parking lot
I felt...weird. I don't know why. Maybe because he wouldn't tell me how far he lived. It was just another thing I didn't know, but I worried about him getting home safely, especially since he might not live close. I let out a heavy sigh and went up to my apartment. Everyone was asleep and it was so quiet. I still felt weird. I put my stuff away and got some water for my new flowers. I put them with the others, in my room, then sat on my bed and looked at them all.
I let out another heavy sigh and laid back on my bed. Everything felt amazing! It wasn't perfect, but it was still wonderful. I guess I just worried. It had been a long time since my life was this wonderful and I was just waiting for the other shoe to drop or something. I just couldn't believe it was going so well. I needed to stop waiting for something to happen and accept that things had changed, I was changing and it would be okay.
I was more tired then I thought and fell asleep. I dreamt I was in a field of endless flowers. There were so many colors and everything was just so beautiful. I ran with the wind and felt alive. In the distance there was a dark castle and I stopped running. I felt this sudden pit of despair in my stomach. I saw Wren in the distance on a horse. I was not happy to see him. He rode out to me and lifted me up and onto his horse, just like in the show. We rode back to the castle and made love in one of the high towers.
After, we went out onto a balcony in silk robes. We stared up at the night sky, and again everything was so beautiful, but I was not happy. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I looked back at Wren and he had this cruel expression on his face. I felt...scared of him, scared of what he might do. I felt like I was trapped and he had his icy cold, hand on my heart and was slowly squeezing it. I looked back at the stars, looking for an escape. I was so confused and filled with such despair. Even after Brett had left, I'd never felt such despair as this. I was suddenly so very cold as Wren dragged me back to bed.
I woke feeling cold, so much so that I was shivering. I realized I'd fallen asleep. I went to the bathroom and took a hot shower. I wanted to go back to bed, but couldn't get rid of this awful feeling. Maybe I'd caught a cold or something? My mother was up and suggested we make pasta. I agreed hoping to take my mind of the dream.
We gathered all the ingredients and cooked for about an hour. She mostly told me what to do and I did it. While the pasta was baking, I jotted everything down in a notebook and thought I'd be able to make it on my own next time. It came out looking really good and she packed herself a plate for lunch, then got ready for work. On her way out the door, she turned to me and I worried she was going to ask about my job again.
I let out a heavy sigh as she said "I think they've given up."
"What?" I said, confused.
"The calls have stopped. They must have given up."
"Oh," I said, then realized she was right.
I couldn't remember the last time someone had called and hung up. I quickly thought of the blond hair guy, who was stalking me. I kept meaning to address that, but I hadn't seen him since the store, then again I hadn't been looking. I'd been so focused on Wren and everything. Maybe the guy saw I was with someone now and had backed off.
"I'm glad. I didn't want to have to change our number," my mother said, pulling me from my thoughts.
"Yeah," I said.
"Well I'm off, don't forget to clean up and lock up on your way out."
"I wont." I said and she left.
Alone, I just stood in the kitchen for a moment feeling uncertain. Eventually, I cleaned up and packed the rest of the pasta into two containers. I thought I'd give one to Wren and have the other for lunch today. I got ready for work and pushed last nights dream aside. Instead I thought about the calls and my stalker. I wondered if I should tell Wren about it, or just wait a bit longer, to see if the guy was really gone. I locked up and noticed it was chilly today. I met Wren in the parking lot. He didn't have more roses. Instead he was holding two cups of coffee. I assumed one of them was for me, but didn't reach for it, in case he was just that tired.
"You made it home safe," I said, then gave him a quick kiss.
"I did," he said with a soft smile, "How did you sleep?"
Thinking about the dream again filled me with dread. I didn't want to talk about it. Instead, I pulled one of the pastas out of my backpack, "I got up early and made pasta with my mom. Did you want one for lunch today? It's a seafood pasta,"
He looked down at the container and nodded. He gave me one of the cups and I handed him the container of pasta.
"Is this for me?" I asked, raising the coffee cup.
"Yes,"
"Thank you," I said.
"Than you," he said, then gave me a wink.
We got in the car and I took a sip of my drink as we pulled out of the parking lot. I wasn't a fan of coffee, but since he'd gotten me one, I thought I could at least try a sip or two. I drank it and was pleasantly surprised to find it wasn't coffee, but hot cocoa.
"Oh wow!"
"What?" he said,"
"It's hot cocoa,"
"Yeah, hope you don't mind,"
"No, I love hot chocolate!"
I took another sip, then looked out the window. I thought about that guy again and scanned the surrounding cars. I looked behind us, but I honestly didn't know what his car looked like. If he even had a car. He could be on a motorcycle or take the bus.
"Cold today," Wren said.
"Yeah," I said, pulling from my thoughts.
"They say it might snow."
"No! I thought winter was over!"
"Seems it's hanging on for dear life."
I nodded, took another sip of my cocoa, then looked out the window again. Some of the cars had changed, but there were a few that were still the same. I kept an eye on one of them until it turned off.
"You okay?" asked Wren, noticing I was looking around.
"Yeah," I said, then let out a heavy sigh. I looked down at my cocoa and said, "There is something I have to tell you." He turned slightly and raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything, he just waited for me to speak."So, uh, I've had some strangeness going on. Someone's been calling our home phone and hanging up. It hasn't been going on long, probably about as long as I've worked at Darrow's." "I paused, furrowing my brow. I wondered if there was a connection, but couldn't be certain.
"And?" Wren asked, urging me to go on.
"Well, they suddenly stopped calling, like it's been a few days now."
"Ahh" he said. "Maybe it was just a wrong number or an autodialer for some telemarketer."
"Maybe," I nodded, "But my mom called the phone company and they seem to be calling from different payphones."
"Hmm, still could be a wrong number. Maybe it's close to another number that's popular, like a tow truck company."
"I hadn't considered that. It's possible I guess. I just, I've also noticed this guy around. I think he might be stalking me, but I haven't seen him in a few days, then again I haven't been looking. I've had a lot of other things on my mind. I guess, I just find it funny I haven't seen him and we've stopped getting calls."
"Hmm," said Wren, nodding. "Maybe he was interested, but backed off when he realized you were with someone."
"I thought about that too, it's possible. I just thought you should know about it, since we're together and all."
"You know anything else about this guy?"
"Not really, but I've seen him with Jules." I realized Jules might know his name and what his deal was. I felt like an idiot not asking, but I'd been busy.
"What does he look like?" asked Wren.
"Oh blond hair and glasses.
"Where have you seen him?"
"I've seen him a few places. I met him on my first day of work. He seemed a bit tense. He was talking to Jules while I was trying on my main dress. I also saw him at the chicken place near Darrow's. I said hi to him and thought he was just awkward maybe. I realized he was following me, when I was grocery shopping with my mom. It was the same day we went on our first date. I saw him, then realized he was following us. I went to different aisles just to make sure."
"Hmm, he might have just been getting the same stuff as you,"
"No. I went through like five aisles in a minute. There was no way he was jumping back and forth as much as I was." Wren nodded and for a second, I watched his mouth curve into a sneer. I noticed him grip the steering wheel tighter and I wondered if I'd upset him.
"So, he was just following you at the store?" I realized that didn't seem like a lot, but that wasn't it.
"Well, there was also this puzzle book I wanted, but I didn't have the money. I put it back, but it was in our car when I was bringing the groceries in."
"Maybe your mom bought it for you as a surprise?"
"Eh, you don't know my mother. She might surprise other people, but not me."
"Why not."
"We don't exactly get along."
He gave me a look, but didn't say anything. We sat in silence for a minute and I wondered if I should have told him. What if this was nothing? What if it was just all in my head? Maybe the guy was looking for the same stuff. but I doubted that and there was no way my mother would have gotten me that book.
I let out a heavy sigh and said, "Sorry, if this sounds weird."
"No, I'm glad you told me. I'll keep an eye out for him."
"I could always just ask Jules who he is,"
"Nah, we shouldn't involve other people," said Wren, "Let me handle this. I'll straighten him out, no one messes with my woman!"
"So I'm your woman now." I smiled
"Now and forever," he smiled. We were stopped at a red light. He leaned over and landed a few kisses on me before it changed.
He was acting so sweet and protective. I brushed his arm with my hand. "You know I could see you playing a hero one day,"
"Who says I'm not already?"
"Uh, your treachery is well known amongst the kingdom."
" As I've said my love, treachery is in the eye of the beholder. Perhaps it is the Royal Ruby family who are the true villains and I only seeks to bring truth to the people."
"That would be a twist, but I doubt they'd do something like that. The Royal Ruby family is very popular."
"For now," he said with a smirk, "For now,"
I laughed thinking he definitely had confident. He pulled into the parking lot across from Darrow's and we shared a passionate kiss. I thanked him for the hot cocoa again, then got out and walked the rest of the way to work. Everything went smoothly, between our second and third showing I had my pasta and I was really good. I wondered if Wren liked it.
We did our last set of shows and around the fourth, I heard a lot of whispering from the guests. I couldn't make out what they were saying, some of them took off and I wondered what was going on. It was a little distracting, but Wren got me back on track. We finished up and I returned my radio. On my way to the dressing room, I noticed a lot more people were around. More then usually given it was a weeknight. When I got to the dressing room hallway, I saw it was packed with cast and crew. They were all whispering and had various expressions of concern, excitement and overall curiosity. I had to push my way through to get to the room room, only to find it tapped off.
I was confused, then looked inside. The wall of mirrors had been shattered and there was glass everywhere. I saw it was indeed made up of wall mirrors. There must have been a dozen, but only three were still intact. I also noticed some broken chairs. A handler was taking pictures of everything and shaking his head. It looked like a straight up crime scene, but I didn't see any blood, thankfully. I wanted to know what happened, but from what I could tell no one really knew anything.
Craig was there along with a few of the managers. They talked for a minute or two, then Craig tried to shut everything down. He gave orders for people to leave and didn't want anyone talking about this or he'd write them up. He would not have rumors spread. A lot of us still needed to change and clock out. He eventually had us step off to the side and got some female handlers to get our cubbies. We changed in the women's room, then returned our costumes so they could be hung up.
I was late clocking out and saw Wren in the hallway. He must have been worried! He was leaned up against the wall with his hands in his jacket. He acted like he was reading the schedule. but I noticed him looking about every few seconds until he saw me. He smiled for a second, nodded and then looked back at the schedule. He waited for me to clock out and get my stuff, then followed close behind me. He walked me to the sidewalk, then went to his car. I noticed him stop along the way and talk to a few people and even walk another women to her car.
I went across the street and he drove over and picked me up. I wanted to know if he knew anything, but before I could ask, he went on about my pasta and how it was the best thing he'd ever had. We got some slices of pizza and I swear he talked about my pasta for a straight up hour. When he finally took a breath I asked if he knew anything, but he didn't. He drove me home and asked if there was any more pasta. I admitted there was not. He seemed a little down, but I promised I'd make him more one day. He said it didn't have to be pasta. He eat whatever I made. I told him I'd make him lunch for tomorrow and he got excited. We shared a few kisses and I went inside.
When I got to work the next day, the glass had been cleaned up and they were already replacing the mirror. By the time I came back from the second show it was like nothing had ever happened. I kept an ear out, but once again, no one seemed to know anything Usually you get a rumor or two, but no one wanted to get written up. If I had to speculate, I'd say a fight had broken out, or someone had gotten fired, or there had been an attack.
I thought about it in between shows. If there had been an attack, the police would have been called and word would definitely have gotten out. So that just left a fight or someone got fired, maybe both. I did wonder if it had anything to do with what happened to my roses, maybe someone was on a rampage or something, but I doubted it. They probably weren't connected.
That night we drove around for a bit, watched a thunder storm and had sex twice. I tried one of his cigarettes after. I knew they were bad for you, but I'd had a dream or two where I'd smoked. I disliked it immediately. I swear I didn't stop coughing until I got home. We sat for a bit and he told me he wouldn't be able to see me much on the weekend, he had to help out some friends. He said he'd still pick me up and drop me off. It was nice of him, but I'd miss him.
We talked longer than normal and I got in late. Everyone was asleep. I took a hot shower and noticed some "love marks," when I got out. I went to bed and covered them up in the morning with makeup. I had breakfast and found my parents had gone out somewhere. I met Wren outside and he dropped me off at work.
I was a little early, but knew how busy the weekend could get. There was a small line and a lot of people looked tired. I knew I could use a few more hours of sleep, but it had been worth it to spend time with Wren. I got changed and made my way to the castle. I saw a lot of people out in the hallway and I wondered what was going on now. Beth was taking roll call, when everyone was there, she got on a box and got our attention.
"Listen up everyone, there are going to be some changes going forward." We all looked at each other and some people whispered before Beth took a breath and continued, "As of now I am in charge of the royals. George is no longer with us." The room erupted with sound as people wanted to know what was going on.
Drea stepped up and yelled, "EVERYONE SHUT UP AND LISTEN!"
The hallway grew quiet and Beth began again. "I know this is sudden, but I'm now in charge and Drea, you all know Drea, will be my second. If you have any work related questions, specially about today's show feel free to get in touch with either of us." Beth nodded, then looked at her clipboard, "We also have some cast changes. The Sapphire Queen is now the Sapphire Prince."
The room erupted in sound once more as several people wondered what had happened to Leslie. Beth raised her voice and continued, "This is Taylor, the Sapphire Prince. He is a new hire so be nice to him and help show him the ropes." We turned to see a young handsome man with blond hair and a wonderful smile. Beth went on "The script will now include that the Sapphire King fell ill and the Sapphire Queen had to return to rule the Kingdom. There will also be no Emerald Queen. It will now just be the Emerald King. Please do not gossip and spread false rumors. Craig has asked us to crack down on any falsehoods and you will be written up. Now, we've got a long day ahead of us and we ask that you all stay focused. Thank you and let's all do our best!"
They let us get to our starting positions. Almost everyone was whispering. I couldn't believe they had replaced George and Leslie. Had they found out about their affair or had something else happened? What about Tantha? The music started up and we all struggled to focus, but we got through the pre-show walk and first set of shows.
I kept an ear out all day. We were told not to gossip, but people were doing it everywhere. In the shadows, when they thought no one was looking and the women's restroom. The fact that Craig said anyone gossiping would be written up, at the dressing room incident and now, had my mind racing. We're they connected!
I heard rumors George had gotten hired at another park or was moving to a better school distract for his kids. Some people said Leslie had left to become a real actress or gotten pregnant. I heard my name mentioned a few times. Mostly about the earlier rumors, that something had happened or hadn't happened There were also some pretty crazy theories going around, like George had won the lottery since Darrow's Park was his life, or that Leslie had been kidnapped or that all three had quit in protest of something. It was hard weeding out what was true, but I think I finally caught wind of something.
I heard two royal guards talking about it on our break. They knew about George and Leslie's affair. They didn't think it was a big deal since affairs happened here all the time, but apparently George's wife had found out. She took the kids and was gonna take him for everything. George had lost it and gone off on a bender or something. He'd crashed his car and was facing some serious jail time. He was so out of it, he claimed he couldn't' remember a thing.
I wasn't sure how much of it was true, but the fact that they knew about the affair made me think they knew a thing or two. Then a few minutes later, I went out on the rooftop and caught Beth and Drea talking. They stepped outside to have a smoke and Beth was itching to tell someone what she knew.
I couldn't help myself, I crouched down on the roof and listened in. Beth knew about the affair, how couldn't she being his second in command. She didn't approve of it and didn't like that he'd suddenly made Leslie a royal, but what was she gonna really say. Drea asked if it was true his wife had found out and Beth said it was because George had told her himself!
I gasped as she went on. Apparently he and Leslie got into some crash and were drugged out of their minds. George admitted the affair and everything to his wife at the hospital and said they were being blackmailed or followed and that someone was out to get them or something. He was facing some serious jail time and Leslie nearly OD. They both claimed they couldn't remember a thing, but clearly they were just trying to cover their asses.
The whole thing was just insane, especially when Leslie showed up for work, only a few hours after being released from the hospital. Management raided her and Tantha's lockers, because someone had reported them for dealing drugs and Darrow's has a zero drug policy, being all family friendly. Tantha was escorted out quietly, but Leslie straight up lost it.
She shattered all the mirrors in the women's dressing room and destroyed the Sapphire Queen costume. Henry, on security, said she was absolutely unhinged. They call a mass emergency meeting last night and Darrow's was doing everything to keep it under wraps, but knowing Darrow's fans, it was bound to get out sooner rather then later.
Drea sounded as shocked as I was. I stayed on the roof far longer then I should have after they left, trying to process it all and was nearly late getting back. Rumors kept swirling, but I stopped listening after I heard Beth and Drea. I felt that was as close to the truth as I was going to get. I really was surprised, but also relieved, given how things had gone just last week.
I tried to focus on my performance, but kept finding my mind wandering back to it.
I really wanted to talk to Wren. I got what Beth said about itching to tell someone, but I wouldn't risk getting caught at work and I didn't want to waste the little time we had talking about Leslie. No. In the end I decided I wouldn't say anything.
We finished our last show and were on our way to fan service, when Beth pulled me aside. I nearly had a heart attack, thinking she'd saw me on the roof, and was going to confront me.
"Where are you going?" she asked.
"Fan service."
She shook her head, "You're suppose to ride in with the Dark Knight, remember."
"OH RIGHT!" I said, having forgot. I felt relieved.
"Go thought the south exit, get to the courtyard and wait by the fountain."
I nodded and gladly took off. I checked a map along the way so I wouldn't get lost. When I got to the courtyard, there was a sizable crowd. Security had put up a rope line and cleared a path all the way to fan service. A few guests saw me and called out. Several flashes went off as pictures were taken. Security rushed over to me and got me inside the rope line. They escorted me to the fountain and then I just waited.
A second or two later, several men hooted and hollered at me. For a second, I was confused then I remembered this might be an option. The men looked like bandits. I spun about as they surrounded me. I wasn't quite sure what to do, if I should act afraid or determined to stand my ground. I went for alert.
"What's this we got here boys!"
"One of those queen's out after dark!" another called.
They circled around me as I spun, then one of them paused, and turned to the side, "Look what's that!"
Another bandit turned, "THE DARK KNIGHT!
I turned to see the Dark Knight on his horse. My heart skipped a beat and I was just as caught up as the guests were. His horse reared up as the crowd cheered. He rushed up and the bandits ran away. He reach out a hand to me and I took it. Sandie had said lifting me up while the horse was running was a potential safety hazard. So we took things nice and slow. He pulled me up onto the horse and made sure I was secure before we rode off to fan service, the crowd cheering us the entire way. I got off at the entrance while he rode off only to come around the side and park his horses behind the gate we'd entered last week. Someone tired it off and we met back stage.
The voting finished a few minutes later and we got chosen again, which was once again unheard of. The crew was ready for it and our booth was set up with all our pictures. We had a handler but for the most part I handled the questions. Wren would chime in every now and then when it suited his character but for the most part I tried to focus on what I had learned. I kept think on topic and paused a lot. We got a lot of Leslie questions, but my character knew not of a Leslie. They then asked about the Sapphire Queen and I was glad to give them a story of how she had to return home to rule her kingdom, but her son was here in here place.
I did have a few hiccups here or there but nothing to major. We took a lot of pictures and sign a lot of autographs. Things ran a little late and we were both tired when we finally got to the car. I barely had the energy to go up the steps to my apartment. The next day we did it all over again. People were still talking about everything, but I focused on other things. I admittedly packed that puzzle but the guy had gotten to me and got lost in that in between shows. I was still freaked out about him but didn't want it to go to waste and he might never show up again. We got chosen again that night and I felt I did much better this time. Again we didn't have much time to talk. I mostly kissed him then went inside.
Monday we had off, which I needed, I spent the whole day in bed. Tuesday was my first library shift. I was well rested and beyond exited. The library smelled amazing and I got to spend two hours roaming around. I picked up prop scrolls and mumbled to myself about ancient secrets. My character was just sure there was so much she could learn here.
At some point the Dark Knight stepped out of a hidden door in the bookshelves, which was fucking cool. The first time I saw him do it I forgot I wasn't suppose to notice. The script had just said he'd enter not how. He walked about in a dark cloak and monologued like a proper villain. While my character sought to protect the kingdom he sought out forbidden knowledge to use against the kingdom. In time the people would know the truth and he would free them all from their delusions one way or another. He let out a creepy laugh just before he laughed.
He really did make a proper villain and I pointed out how creepy he was later that day. I probably shouldn't have said it, while we were having sex. He kept doing his evil laugh and grabbed me, tickling me to the point where I couldn't stop laughing. I swear he almost made me wet myself.
We performed, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. We had a lot of down time in between shows and I wished we could talk. We spend some time together in the mornings and after work, but it never felt like enough time. I asked where he lived again, thinking we could go to his place sometime. He quickly changed the subject again and I didn't push.
On Friday night, he dropped me off and we cuddled for a few minutes. We had the weekend off and I wondered if he'd want to do anything, before I could say something, he asked, "Have you told your parents you're not working this weekend?"
"No, they don't really ask."
"Good,"
"Why?" I asked. "You have something in mind?"
"I might. I got us a hotel room."
"You what?" I said.
"You heard me," he said, then showed me the keys, "Good until Monday."
"Uh, I can't exactly spend the night."
"I'm not asking you to. Spend the day with me. I'll pick you up in the morning and drive you home at night."
"How much was it?"
"Does it fucking matter!" he snapped. "Stop asking me how much stuff costs. I'm not like the other losers you dated." I was caught off guard, his tone and expression were rather nasty. I wasn't used to it. I bit my lip and furrowed my brow, feeling uneasy. His expression and tone quickly softened. "We don't get to spend a lot of time together and I'd like to. I really like you."
"I really like you," I said quietly.
"So spend the weekend with me."
"I- I think my parents would notice."
"Nah, just act like you're going to work How are they going to know?"
"I guess," I said. "It does sound nice."
"It sounds amazing!" he said, "I can't wait to spend all day in bed with you."
"Yeah," I said picturing it. We kissed, then started to make out, but I slipped away before things got hot and heavy. "Let's save it for tomorrow."
He pouted, but let me go. I went inside and instead of getting ready for bed I took a hot bath. When I got out, I planned to pack a few things. I knew it was only a day, well more like a few hours, but I always liked to be prepared. Maybe a change of clothes, my swimsuit and a book. I hadn't really been on a lot of vacations, especially without my family. Now that I think of it, I don't think Brett and I ever stayed in a hotel.
I tried not to think of him. I eventually got out and was drying off when the phone rang. It was late and I was the only one up. I rushed to answer it but was a little worried it might be that guy. "Hello?"
"I can't stop thinking about you," said Wren. "Think you can leave tonight?"
"No," I said.
"What are you wearing?"
"A towel, I just took a bath,"
"Fuck," he groaned, "I miss you!"
"I miss you too," I said.
He let out a deep groan "Uhh, I can't wait for tomorrow! Fuck it, I'll sleep in the parking lot. I can't bear to be away from you."
I laughed, thinking he was joking. "No freak! Promise you wont!"
"I can't make any promises, but if you wake up early, just come out, I'll be there."
"No," I said
'Please," he said, "I'm begging you, don't make me wait."
"Uh fine, I'll get up early, but don't sleep in the parking lot that's crazy!"
"What can I say, I'm crazy for you."
"Right," I chuckled, "Night,"
"Night," he said and lingered on the phone. I could hear him breathing.
I hung up and went back to my room, thinking he couldn't be serious about waiting outside. I picked out a few things for the weekend. I found my swimsuit and started to get a little excited. Honestly, I couldn't wait either for it to just be him and me for hours on end. I had no idea how I was going to sleep, but eventually I laid down and set an alarm. |
