#THAT AND WHEN THE TEXT IS ALL SHAKY OR CLUSTERED TOGETHER TO EXPRESS PANIC AND FEAR!!!

[sehunniepotwrites]

Yours to Guard, Mine to Keep | SEVEN

SUMMARY: Two life-changing secrets were revealed to you in the span of one day: you’re the crown princess to a small country and that your best friend is actually your bodyguard. The only secret left for you to find out is that your best friend is hopelessly in love with you and he is determined to keep it that way. Why? Because his duty is to his country and not to his heart.

PAIRING: Princess!reader x bodyguard!Jaehyun GENRE: princess diaries!au, modern royal!au, bodyguard!au, high school!au, friends to lovers!au, romance, comedy, fluff, drama, slight angst WARNINGS: mentions of death (no character deaths), swearing, sexual assault/harassment, bullying, anxiety attacks WORD COUNT: 1949

< prev | masterlist | next >

Dad,

Today was overwhelming. I’m wondering if you ever felt like this. Did people shove microphones into your face and invade your personal space?

If this is what being a royal is, I don’t want it.

It started off as a regular morning.

Just as he always did in the morning, Jaehyun’s car pulled up in front of your house and you carpooled to Neo Prep together. Just as you always did, you chose the music he sang along to as you texted Yeri memes you forgot to send her last night. And just as he always did, Jaehyun got out of his Audi first to lend you a helping hand.

But unlike usual, there were people equipped with broadcasting equipment and large professional cameras lining the entrance to the school. They shoved each other, trying to get the best views of the cars driving past the gate. News anchors were positioned with their crews, actively reporting the scene.

“This is weird,” you pointed out, your eyes looking out of Jaehyun’s tinted windows. “Is there a special event at school today?”

“No, not that I know of,” Jaehyun whispered, his brows wrinkled in confusion as he parked his car.

The moment your heeled foot touched the ground, the heavy crowd surrounding the academy’s parking lot pushed forward to circle your friend’s car. You were shocked to see so many bustling eyes on you. Jaehyun instinctively pushed you behind him, hiding your frame behind his broad back. You clutched onto his sleeve as the crowd grew closer.

People of all ages were shouting your name: there were students of the school, what looked like to be news anchors and paparazzi, and lastly, faculty and staff trying to control the crowd.

“Is that her?!” A person with a microphone called.

“Jaehyun,” you called on your bodyguard, your grip on his blazer growing tighter by the minute.

“Stay close to me,” he commanded.

“Yes, that’s her!” You heard Chungha call, a fake smile plastered on her face. “That’s my best friend — the Princess!”

Hearing your official title slip through your enemy’s mouth, you froze against your friend’s back. Jaehyun felt you stiffen behind him and muttered a string of curse words. He brought a hand to his ear, pressing down on an earpiece you never noticed him wearing. “Emergency: requesting immediate backup. The sparrow has been spotted. I repeat, the sparrow has been spotted,” he spoke into his small microphone.

The clusters of people began to shove their way closer to you and you slowly felt panic seeping through your veins. Zoom lenses and video cameras were aimed to capture your shocked expression while microphones were shoved into your face. Random people yelled your name, title, and extremely personal questions that left you unsettled. You shook at all the unwanted attention — it frightened you beyond belief.

There were flashes of light temporarily blinding you and it made you feel sick. They inched forward and it looked like they were out to get you, like they were predators and you were their meek prey.

Cold sweat started slipping down your forehead as you breathed in shallow breaths.

“Jae,” you tugged on the fabric of his jacket, your breaths growing more haggard by the second.

“I know, Princess, I know. I’m sorry,” Jaehyun turned over his shoulder to comfort you.

You shut your eyes.

Breathe.

In through your nose, out through your mouth.

In and out.

“Help is on the way, I promise,” his husky voice whispered but you couldn’t hear him. You could only hear the rapid pounding of your heart.

Dizziness. Everything was spinning. The people were getting louder. You were starting to burn up in your uniform. The tie you wore was suffocating you. You couldn’t breathe. A shaky hand attempted to loosen the tie but it only constricted it even more. You felt like a fish out of water at that point, hopeless gasping for air.

Jaehyun called your name several times, his voice growing a bit louder to catch your attention. He recognized that you were having another attack, something he had witnessed many times before, and was determined to help you through it as he did in the past.

“Pretty girl, sweetheart,” he started off, his voice low and calming despite the chaos erupting in front of you.

You whimpered through the nausea.

“Princess, you’re holding my jacket, yeah? Can you tell me what it feels like?”

It was a grounding technique Jaehyun always used with you —  a way to practice mindfulness and focus on an object as distraction.

Taking deep breaths, you fiddled with the fabric in between your hands. “It- it feels soft and smooth,” you stuttered out.

“Yes, that’s good, princess. What else?”

The fabric brushed against your dry skin, “It’s made of a- a light material.”

“What else can you feel?” he pushed for you to go on, happy that you were responding.

Your hands blindly felt their way down his sleeve, skimming over his strong arms until you found his hand.

“You — I feel you.” If Jaehyun wasn’t under extreme stress over keeping you safe at that moment, his heart would have leapt out of the prison he called his rib cage.

“I feel y-your hand,” you speak out, your gasps slowly regulating with your thoughts.

“What about it?” He squeezed yours lightly and you squished his back. You

“It’s strong and warm and…”

“...and?”

Your forehead rested on his back as your breathing slowly regulated. You felt safe with him. Jaehyun always kept you safe.

“...safe,” you finished. Jaehyun couldn’t help but smile at your words, dimple popping out for a fraction of a second before a buzzing came through his ear. He pressed his unoccupied hand to his earpiece, muttering an order you could barely hear.

There were shouts coming from deep within in the crowd that grew closer. The voices sounded familiar but you couldn’t put together why they did. You opened your eyes to see the vulture-like crowd part like the Red Sea as a group of the faculty members cleared a path for you. The scholarship guidance counselor, Mr. Taeyong Lee led the way with another scholarship student, Yuta Nakamoto, by his side. They both had serious and determined looks on their handsome faces as they hurried towards your direction.

“About time you two got here,” Jaehyun glared at the two leading the faculty as you pressed against his broad back.

“Got caught up in the crowd,” Mr. Lee retorted, immediately going to your left side.

“Sorry, boss,” Yuta replied with a sheepish grin. “Hiya, Princess,” the older male greeted you with a knowing smile, his hand softly touching your arm. You were acquaintances, having known him from the scholarship program. He was flirty and sometimes aloof, but was a kind soul overall.

Yuta made his way to your right side, the three men forming a triangle around you.

“Boss?” You repeated as a question.

“I’ll explain later,” Jaehyun said definitively. He turned to Taeyong to ask him a question. “The faculty is informed on what to do?”

“Yes,” Taeyong answered sharply. He motioned to the faculty and staff building a human barrier and clearing a path to the school’s entrance.

“Let’s move,” Jaehyun commanded and the three men wordlessly guided you through the front doors and directly to the principal’s office. Taeyong and Jaehyun kept straight faces as they made their way through the crowd while Yuta’s bright smile kept you from slipping into another attack.

The doors to the office shut behind you and you heard Taeyong let out a sigh of relief.

“The Queen and my father are on the way, so is her mother,” Jaehyun reported after checking his smartphone.

Yuta kindly led you to a chair and your knees shook as you sank down into the seat.

“You’re okay now, Princess,” the senior with the kind smile told you.

“How—”

“How do I know?” Yuta cut you off with a grin. “We were assigned to be your undercover guards, too.” He gestured to your guidance counselor, the ring on his right index finger catching light. Looking closer, you noticed it was the same ring Jaehyun wore. You shifted your gaze to Taeyong trying to calm your head guard down, immediately noticing the gold band on the counselor’s right hand.

“We’re under Jaehyun’s command. We report to him.” You suddenly remembered seeing Jaehyun exchange words with Taeyong and Yuta multiple times but you thought nothing of it.

Your best friend paced back and forth in front of the door, hands running through his jet black hair as he furiously mumbled words under his breath. You could feel the anger and frustration seeping through him from where you were seated, his stomps almost shaking the room.

“Jaehyun, pull yourself together,” Taeyong tried to reason, “Princess Areum is safe.”

“But that doesn’t tell me who the leak was!” Jaehyun exploded. He rarely raised his voice and the edge in his tone scared you. “Once I find out who it is, they are going to—“

“Jaehyun,” Taeyong warned. “That is not our top priority.”

“And what is?”

“Making sure Her Highness is okay,” the eldest said. He motioned to you as you gripped onto Yuta’s sleeve with blown out eyes. “A crowd almost attacked her, for goodness sake.”

One look at you scared beyond belief was enough to bring him down. Jaehyun pinched his nose as he calmed down. “God, I hate when you’re right.”

“You may be my superior, but god, you’re too hot headed at times,” Taeyong found himself rolling his eyes at Jaehyun’s comment.

“I’m sorry, Yong.”

“I’m not the one you need to apologize to,” Taeyong murmured.

Jaehyun made his way towards you with a tentative smile. He bent down to your eye level, his hand resting against the hand clutching onto Yuta’s sleeve. “Hey, beautiful.”

His thumb rubbed soothing circles into your skin and you loosened your hold. “I’m sorry for scaring you like that,” he said softly. “Are you okay?”

“I think so,” you found yourself saying, relaxing with his simple touch. His hand made his way to your face, swiping at your cheek.

“Good.”

“Can I have a hug?” you questioned weakly, still shaken up by the crowds. Without a moment’s hesitation, Jaehyun opened up his arms. You fell into his hold, head immediately finding its way to the crook of his neck. He kept you in his embrace as your other two guards were preoccupied with barking commands into their earpieces and aggressively typing on their smartphones.

“That was not fun. I don’t think I like this.”

“Don’t like what?” Jaehyun prodded.

“Being a royal,” you answered back. “That was too much, I can’t do it. You saw how that affected me! God, did Dad have to deal with that? How the hell did he do it?”

“I know it’s a bit overwhelming to process everything but I know you can do it, just like I know you can make yourself out to be a great princess,” Jaehyun told you, looking deep into your eyes.

You disagreed with him and he shushed you. “I just wish you could see yourself the way I see you.”

“And how do you see me?” you asked curiously. Jaehyun’s deep brown eyes went soft and that particular smile appeared on his handsome face. You had seen him wear that look a couple of times now but you still couldn’t put your finger on what it was.

Before Jaehyun could even attempt to answer your question, the principal of Neo Prep burst through the doors with your family trailing behind. Yunho followed closely behind clutching onto an apologetic Kibum.

Guess you would never find out the answer to that question.

taglist: @jenoscity​ @cherrym4rk​ @smoll-tangerine​ @stae-yong​ @yourmagnanimousholiness​ @shiningjaehyun​ @unicorn-aly​ @jae-bread @eileencacai​ @dumplingley​ @billiondollarworth​ @cryingforjae​ @plump-peach​ @ppangjae​ @hannie-dul-set​ @starryhyun​ @marklexleaf​ @rindomo​ @jaeismytamtation​ @euphoricdreamies​ @silverdoragon​ @bby-kji9​ @yourchasingsunsetslove​

author’s note: this is all i have for ytg so far. it’s been rough to pound this one out even though the idea lives rent free in my mind. i’m currently putting this on hiatus to work on two other fics that i’m rapidly finishing. check out the preview for one of them here! as you wish

[clown-bait]

Paranormal Journeys Part 7 (Monster Roommate AU)

WOW I FINALLY DID IT. So I started a new job and things have been NUTS but this fic is not dead and I am determined to finish it. And dont you worry folks I’m a stubborn ass who does not quit. So here it is the next chapter. Leech gets tortured a bit and Penny visits an old friend. Hope you guys like it!

Ch 7 Mike Hanlon gets a Visitor

A screech echoed though the old barn of the former Hanlon sheep farm. Leech glanced furiously around the stall she was in. A moment ago she was full and happy then suddenly a cloth was pressed to her mouth and a bag over her head.

“WHO THE FUCK IS THE IDIOT THAT CHLOROFORMED ME!!” The vampire roared “CAUSE I’D LIKE TO KNOW WHO’S HEAD IM RIPPING OFF FIRST!”

Her head snapped in the direction of footsteps and she tried to charge with supernatural speed but felt a short chain attached to her neck snap tight. The nosferatu snapped her jaws in frustration.

“Ok guys get everything ready make sure the cameras are rolling and somebody wake up Chris.” Zander shouted as he approached the struggling vampire.

“Don't worry we’re going to help you.”

“BITCH THE ONLY HELP I NEED IS FINDING SPACE TO STORE YOUR LEFTOVERS!!” She snapped.

The ghost hunter pulled a cross from his coat and held it out at the nosferatu who began to hiss loud and sweat. He quickly put it away at her reaction.

“She's possessed all right, did you see how much she recoiled in terror? this is definitely a powerful demon were dealing with here”

“Demon?! Motherfucker I'm friends with demons, you wouldn't know a demon if it came up and bit you in the ass.” Leech spat and pulled on her chain.

“Note the foul language and denial. The creature that has ahold of her is definitely scared and trying to protect its self.”

“Protect myself from what? This shit show excuse of a reality tv exorcism? Tell ya what, if you free my hands i’ll spew pea soup at big boy over there and speak latin backwards. These shackles are tight as fuck can’t a girl get a little comfort?”

“Gosh its foul mouthed.” the bigger ghost hunter said to the team.

“Yeah thats how they are bro it's definitely going to try to provoke us. Whatever you do don't engage.” Zander said to his team mate while placing different items on a table

“You started it.” Leech mumbled. “What are those?”

“We're going to force you out of this poor girl.”

“AH! So its to be torture! I can cope with torture.” Leech flashed a cocky grin and wiggled her eyebrows expectantly.

“Did you…. steal that line from Princess Bride?” the bigger ghost hunter Rick asked her.

“Eeeyyy! Someone finally gets my references! And to think I was gonna eat this guy first!”

“RICK don't engage it!” Zander hissed

“Found our villain! Now tell me do you have six fingers on your left hand or am I gonna be calling you Humperdink”

“I think it was the right hand” Rick interjected

“Huh no shi-OW FUCK JESUS CHRIST!!!” Leech screamed as holy water was flung at her face by the lead ghost hunter. A cluster of painful burns began to bubble on her skin where the water had landed. “RUDE!”

“Silence demon!”

“I’M NOT A DEMON! GOD you are like the biggest edge lord! What’s next? You gonna start shouting bible verses too like they do in the movies?” she snarled as Chris walked in the room.

“Z I had the weirdest fucking dream.”

“Not now bro we’re doing the exorcism.”

“Yeah poorly. Bet you dickbags got all your training from bad horror movies and porn parodies.”

“Sheesh that thing is nasty” Chris winced

“Demon Dick 5?” the Rick asked as his companions glared at him in shock and annoyance.

“One of my favorites Rick. I like this guy have him do the exorcism!”

“We've already wasted enough time!” Zander shouted and picked up a book from the table he began to read a passage and Leech dramatically pretended to hiss and writhe her tongue lolling out of her mouth. “Hahaha Man oh man if Phil could hear you guys talking about him like this he'd be laughing with me just as hard! Shit wait somebody text him for me!”

“Why would we do that? Also who's phil?”

“Oh right, Phil is Satan we used to play poker together before my boyfriend banned it from the house. Not my doing for once lets get that clear.”

“Don't listen to a word its saying guys”

“Aw come on Humperdink let me just text my buddy once” her eyes flashed white over in Rick’s direction before being splashed with holy water once again. The nosferatu’s skin sizzled and steam rose from her burns. “J-just….text…LOL getting… a half assed….exorcism…hit send…. mph there.”

Chris glanced over to Rick who’s eyes had rolled up into his head he was holding her cellphone which just buzzed with a notification. “RICK SNAP OUT OF IT!” he shouted and turned to the grinning vampire pelting a rock at her face. “LET HIM GO”

Leech spat as the stone broke her nose and looked back up sticking her tongue out through the black ichor dripping down her face.

“CHRIS! Control yourself!” Zander shouted and Leech winked back at the two.

“Read it Ricky!” she smirked.

“I-it says R-O-F-L cant be there, at yoga getting this ass….its a picture of a goat and a woman’s back side” Rick’s eyes rolled back down and Leech vomited a small amount of black goo onto the barn floor. “Phew that took more out of me than I thought” she muttered and panted.

“RICK!”

“I'm sorry she did something to my head!”

“Ok but can you at least show the picture though?” the vampire asked looking up from her now bruising eye and nose.

“NO!” the other two ghost hunters turned and shouted.

“OH COME ON! I wanna see that booty”

“WOW this thing is terrible!” Chris glanced over at Zander who was prepping to try another round of bible verses.

“I know bro this is one of the nastiest ones we've dealt with! This is pure evil we’re dealing with here.” The lead ghost hunter clapped his friend on the shoulder reassuringly.

“Aww I'm blushing! you really mean it?!” the vampire shouted to them

“Bro hand me my rosary.”

“What are those? Anal beads? So you HAVE seen Demon Dick 5!”

Zander got close and began to shout “IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST I COMMAND YOU TO GET OUT OF THIS WOMANS BODY”

“Hahaha that was totally a direct quote.” Leech laughed again but was cut short when the silver cross dangled in front of her face “FUCK GET IT AWAY!” She hissed and the ghost hunter dangled it closer to her. Leech could feel her skin burn with heat where it drew close. The ghost hunter threw another wave of holy water at her and she hissed in pain face turning skeletal for a second as her skin sizzled. “A-all right if were gonna get straight into the kinky stuff we should at least have a safe word. Mine’s usually Float.” she tried to joke through the pain. Her skin was on fire with the crucifix being so close.

“Z I don't think she's a demon” Rick said tugging on his leaders arm

“Rick I’ve been at this way longer than you I know a demon when I see one”

“Bullshit you're doing this all wrong. Plus Im not a demon I can prove it too if you hand me that orange.” Leech panted.

“I don't know Z this could be a trick” Chris said with worry.

“Look have you ever seen one do some of the shit she just did? Just hand her the orange”

“Fine Rick. Fine. We’ll humor you but if nothing happens we’re getting right back to the exorcism.”

Zander rolled the fruit over to the vampire who glared up at him from her knees “You gonna undo my hands so I can eat this?”

“No.”

“Weeeelllll fuck you then! So much for what’s left of my dignity.” she grumbled and bent down to the floor biting into the fruit as best she could to suck out the juice. “Ahm hoing to rerhet hiss ho huch…” she said while her fangs sunk in. Leech came up with a weak expression on her battered and burnt face looking nauseous and dizzy. “You're all gonna wanna stand back when I- HURK!” the vampire suddenly lurched forward and spewed out blood and guts onto the barn floor in an inhuman amount. She kept going for a solid five minutes until Leech was slumped over supported by the chain around her neck. “Huh, is that an engagement ring? Shit I need to chew my food.” she wheezed before emptying the rest of her stomach contents.

“WHAT THE FUCK?!?!” all three ghost hunters screamed in unison.

“Yeah lets see Pazuzu pull that shit!” Leech grinned declaring victory before shouting at some unknown force in the ground “YOU HERE THAT ZUZU I JUST OUT WEIRDED YOU! WHATCHA GONNA DO NOW BITCH!? PEA SOUP GOT NOTHING ON ME!”

“Zander! If this is not a demon then what the hell is she bro?” Chris turned to his leader in a panic

“Nosferatu.” a vaguely familiar female voice said walking into the barn “What you're dealing with is a nosferatu.”

leech sniffed the air and snarled in disgust.

“Fuck.”

———————————————————————-

Somewhere in the town of Derry, Mike Hanlon was laying in his bed coming down from another high. It was time to turn in for the night but with all that had been going on the last couple days the librarian needed a fix…. just a quick one to calm the nerves. His night would be anything but calm when two glowing yellow eyes lit up his room like the obnoxious christmas lights his neighbors had set up.

“Mike” something whispered in the dark “Mike! Help us!” came another disembodied voice. He knew them all too well. The librarian sat up in his bed glancing around his room unaware of the creeping fingers clawing up his mattress. Burnt hands wrapped around the terrified man pinning him down while a disheveled looking monster from his childhood nightmares stepped into the moonlight.

“Thought you could trick me did ya Mikey? Thought you could fool Ol’Pennywise by taking what he loves most. Stupid boy! Stupid, stupid, stupid! No one fools me. no one.” the clown began his voice shaky and dangerous trying to mask the obvious panic behind it as he paced. The creature’s posture and gait reminded him of a nervous caged animal unpredictable and dangerous. Something was very wrong with IT.

“Y-you? W-hy are you here?” the librarian asked cautiously.

“TELL ME where she is SHEEP BOY. Tell Penny where his peachy is and he’ll make it much much quicker for you. Yes! A quick death or a slow one pick your path!” he snarled as Mike was trying to decide if he was still high.  

“A-are you real?”

“REAL? Real THIS ISNT REAL ENOUGH FOR YOU MIKEY?”

Mike’s stomach flip flopped in realization of the little reminder of all those years ago. IT had to be real and now IT was in his bedroom.

“Penny knows you need time, yes iIknow you haven't figured out that stupid reptile’s riddles. Don't you fret sheep boy I am just here for her this time. Bring her to me, bring me my mate and you can go back to trying to understand what mortals cannot.” IT was frantically babbling around his room pacing like a tiger in a small cage looking almost fearful its self. Mike remembered that look well the last emotion he saw on ITs face before it vanished down that hole. Something was very, very wrong.

“A mate? …You?!” he asked trying to keep the creature talking to piece the situation together as best he could.

The clown shot him an unamused look as if this was far from the first time someone has asked that. “Where is my Leechie!? I am the questioner here!”

“You're talking about Lucy right? Something’s happened to her?”

“Lucy… Lucy yes, yes her human name. Don’t play games sheep boy release her to me!” Pennywise snarled while he stalked beginning to impatiently kick things over and sniff items of clothing desperate for that sweet smell of blood and ashes.

“Even if I did know where she is, why would I help you?”

The clown roared and charged forward coming in close to the trapped man on the bed fangs bared long and needle like. IT spat in Mike’s face drool and bits of flesh hitting his skin as it spoke. Something was very off with IT more so than usual, as if possessed by some sort of ancient instinct overriding its usual demeanor.

“You want to stop me don't you? I’ll let you live Mikey! Yesss I’ll let you try! One free shot! Just give me my Peachy!” IT was bargaining now just like it did in the cistern 27 years ago. The clown must be desperate.

“I don't have her” the librarian spat back at the clown who snarled and grabbed his throat. Suddenly Mike felt searing pain in his mind as IT forcibly invaded his thoughts its eyes blackened on the edges pupils drifting off into different directions till he found what he was looking for and returned them to focus. IT’s face changed again from rage, to shock and finally to embarrassment. In IT’s hate fueled assault on its enemy IT had made a grave mistake. Mike had nothing to do with his precious mate. In fact all Pennywise had done was just reveal his greatest weakness to his greatest enemy. IT had messed up and it had messed up bad.

The clown released the librarian and awkwardly backed up off the bed eyes large and wide. Wordlessly, IT glanced over to Mike’s bedroom door and without breaking eye contact opened it while silently slinking out like a dog with its tail between its legs. The hands around the librarian vanished into smoke and everything became calm and quiet around him. “What the hell just happened?” he asked the empty void not expecting to get a response and not sure if he wanted one either.

———————————

Pennywise returned to his home to find his…..friends? Seated on his couch awaiting the result of his hasty impromptu rescue mission. That, and they were probably mad that he tore Freddy’s head back off in rage. Even his cat seemed a bit upset with him.

“Well? Did you embarrass yourself?” Chucky asked him taking a drag from one of Leech’s joints.

“It…..it wasn't the librarian…” the clown muttered.

“Oh yeah he embarrassed himself.” Freddy laughed still applying a few more staples to his neck.

“Hey if Fangs doesn't come back can I use her room? Thinkin’ about making it into a nice man cave” Chucky boldly asked earning him a death glare from the distressed clown.

Penny snarled and shooed everyone away from his couch snatching up Church to absentmindedly pet as if the cat was a coping mechanism for his current state. What if she doesn't come back? There were emotions he was feeling he didn't think were possible. His new strange instinct to protect driving him to near insanity as he was currently in a constant war with himself to drive the feeling back. Nature and ego raged war inside the eldritch being.

His inner thoughts were interrupted when the door to Neibolt House creaked open the residents all took their leave except the owner who still sat on his couch stroking his cat not wanting to put any effort into this one.

“H-Hello?” a voice called out. “Uh clown? Pennywise?” Mike had never actually called the clown by name before it felt weird on his tongue.

Something appeared behind the librarian blocking his exit.

“What do you want” IT hissed low and in a whisper. Mike turned to see the god of fear its self looming behind him with a plump dirty grey cat tucked under its arm. The two stared at each other in hatred and confusion. The librarian looked at Church and back to the clown.

“Is that a cat?”

“Possibly..”

“Are you going to explain why you have it?”

“No.”

“….what the hell happened to you?” Mike whispered half to the clown half to himself.

“Why are you here?” pennywise snarled growing impatient.

“I cant believe I'm saying this but I'm here to….help.”

“YOU WHAT?!” the house shook with the inhuman roar released from Pennywise’s throat.

“LET ME EXPLAIN HOLD ON!” the librarian put his hands out in an attempt to calm the savage beast who had nearly thrown the animal in its arms.

“You have five seconds human before I tear out your eyes.”

“Look you want your…uh girlfriend or whatever she is back. I need more time to figure out how to kill you.”

“Is this a bargain?” the clown raised his eyebrow suspiciously.

“Whoever has her is most likely trying to get to you and will try to harm you as well. We both know all they will do is send you back to sleep and if that happens I can’t stop you and you lose the girl. I can help you get her back. I have a way into the farm, and I can distract whoever has her as a friendly face. Then we can go back to trying to kill each other, business as usual.”

The clown glared at mike with a fury that made the librarian tremble with fear. This had been a mistake he was going to die and everything will be ruined on this stupid risk.

“You dare assume I cannot solve my own problems sheep boy?? What’s to stop me from tearing you apart right now.”

“That.” Mike pointed behind the clown. Pennywise slowly turned to see a box with a balloon tied to it specifically just to mock him. The clowns eyes grew wide as he sniffed the air and saw the black ooze leaking out of the corner of the cardboard. With careful claws he opened the lid and peered inside letting out one of the most horrifying sounds Mike Hanlon had ever heard in his life. The box was thrown to the floor and an object rolled out of it. It was a cold pale finger tipped with a sharp feminine nail and the blood that leaked from it was black.

-------------------

Uh oh what did Leechie do this time? Poor clown be going NUTS over all this. Im so excited to do some frenemy shit with Pen and Mike like Ive been DYING to get here. Also its Leech’s turn to meet an old enemy. Wonder who it is?

[kdinthecity]

Confessions of a Teenage Sugar Queen: Kiss and Tell

Chpt. 1 | Chpt. 2 | Chpt. 3 | Chpt. 4 | Chpt. 5 | Chpt. 6 | Chpt. 7

I text my dad once we’re on board, and he is actually already aware of the change in our travel itinerary. I guess it makes sense that Iroh would let him know, but I didn’t even realize they were acquainted. Our family does frequent Mushi’s, but I always thought it was because of my dad’s deep appreciation for quality seafood. My mind now races through all the possibilities—call it investigative journalism in practice… or me basically questioning my entire childhood.

So, did my parents know Iroh before my mom died?

If they knew each other, my dad must consider him an ally since we still dine at his restaurant. Dad says he is wary of Zuko, though, despite allowing me to go on this trip.

Does my dad know anything about Mom’s connection to Ursa?

Even if he didn’t know Iroh or anything about Zuko’s mom, how is my dad OK with all of this? His trust is not easily earned. Yet here I am, caught up in the middle of the Kasai family madness.

But it involves my family, too.

My dad’s words suddenly weigh heavy on me. “I don’t trust them, Katara. But I trust you.”

I apparently have no problem trusting Zuko, because as soon as our plane takes off, I melt into him and fall asleep. I can’t help it. I’m exhausted, he is perpetually warm, and he always smells like...

“Sweet dreams, Moonpeach.”

OK, did that really happen or did I just imagine Zuko saying that and kissing the top of my head?

The entire seven-hour flight passes like the blink of an eye. I hope I didn’t do something embarrassing like snore or drool on his shoulder. Zuko gently rouses me when the cabin lights come back on just before landing. I try to shake myself from a sleep-induced stupor while he stares at his phone, awaiting instruction of what to do next. I check mine, too, but neither of us have a signal at the moment.

At 11:45 p.m. local time, this particular terminal of the Anchorage airport is nearly empty. After passing through security, we find an isolated cluster of chairs to dump our bags and settle in case we’re stranded here for the night. Zuko curses at his phone, but I switch into wifi mode, and a series of notifications for missed calls and texts soon registers. I read and listen and panic and ponder. Dad instructs to stay put and wait for someone to come get us. And that he and Sokka will meet us in Anchorage tomorrow. And be careful, he warns.

Zuko receives similar messages from Iroh, and while he says, “Don’t worry. Everything will be OK,” the paleness of his face gives him away. It accentuates the scar, and even though I’ve mostly forgotten it’s there, I’m unabashedly staring at it right now.

“What?” he asks, exasperated.

The words slip out before I can stop myself. “How did it happen?”

“Really!? You want to talk about that here? Right now?” Some color has returned to his cheeks, along with that incredulous expression he wears so often.

What I really want to do… is kiss him. Yes, here. Right now.

I start by reaching for the rippled discoloration under his left eye. He flinches but doesn’t pull away. His golden gaze softens—he trusts me, I think. I trace the outline of his scar with the pad of my thumb then slowly bring my hand around to stroke the nape of his neck. His breath catches when my lips find their mark. I’ve always been curious about this, but the ridged skin is surprisingly soft.

His eyes flutter closed. “I can’t feel it,” he says, barely above a whisper. “I can’t feel anything…”

He’s talking about damaged nerve endings, and whatever else is damaged beyond repair, but I’m determined to make him feel something.

I grip the chair’s armrest in between us to brace myself. “What about here, then?”

And just like that, we’re kissing.

It would have been more romantic that day on the beach. Or more commonplace any of the countless times we’ve been in his car together. But now that we’re practically running for our lives, there is a sense of urgency—a neediness. We skip all the shy first kiss business, too. I’m shocked by my own boldness, but more than pleased at how fervently he responds.

And now that I’m finally kissing Zuko, I really don’t want to stop.

He doesn’t, either, if those soft moaning noises he’s making are any indicator. I tug at his bottom lip with my teeth in between insistent open-mouthed kisses before his hands are in my hair, and his hot breath and teasing tongue are everywhere.

I think we’ve forgotten that we’re in an airport in the middle of the night waiting for some random person to meet us here. Clearly we’ve both wanted this for a while now, but maybe this is not the best time or place. Eventually we come to our senses and reluctantly pull away from each other.

Zuko slumps back in his seat and lets out a breathless, “Wow.”

I nod in agreement, unsure of whether he can see me or not, but if he were looking, he’d find me sporting swollen lips and an unnatural shade of pink. I pretend to browse on my phone to avoid whatever awkward conversation will inevitably happen next. Because it’s me and Zuko, and we’re the world’s biggest dorks. I’d rather not talk, really. Can’t we just make out some more?

Zuko fiddles with his phone, too, for what seems like ages. Then out of the blue, “I was thirteen.”

“Huh?” I shift in my chair to face him.

He points at his scar. “When my father…”

“Oh.” I had completely forgotten. Why did I even ask? “Zuko, you don’t have to—“

“I used to want to be like him,” he continues. “Because I’d take over the company some day, I figured. Our top selling game at the time was Day of Black Sun, this war simulator game, and like any teenager, I was really excited about it. I begged to go to one of the engineering meetings, so Uncle got me in somehow.”

My stomach starts churning with uncertainty. “Iroh worked for Future Fire?”

“Yeah, he quit after… uhh, anyway, Dad’s top engineer, Dr. Bujing, presented a prototype of the Black Sun combat gloves, but they were actual weapons. I was confused by this, so I said a lot of gamers who use the virtual reality gear are just kids. They could get hurt. Then Bujing laughed all creepy like and said some kids don’t play war games for fun.”

The depth of sadness in Zuko’s voice, and the flash of fear in his eyes are now giving me heart palpitations. I grab his hand and gently squeeze it.

“So, it turns out that these new weapons were being sold to a top bidder overseas, to this guy named Zhao who exploited kids to carry out his covert operations. Bujing said these young soldiers lived in hostile environments and had to be tough. No Bay Area brat like me would understand. I was appalled, so I challenged him. I said kids should never be forced to fight, and Future Fire shouldn’t be making weapons anyway.”

Zuko pauses and swallows, then fidgets and sighs. I tell him he doesn’t have to finish, but he shakes his head and draws in a deep breath.

“My father said… I talked too big, just like a typical Silicon Valley kid… and I didn’t know true pain and suffering. He then reminded me that Future Fire was first and foremost an arms dealer… and always will be. In order to learn my place, I was awarded the privilege of testing out the prototypes.”

I gasp because I can only guess where his story is headed next. The pressure building in my chest is almost unbearable. I’ve never let myself think about it before now, but I can’t fathom the pain he must have experienced.

“A few days later, Dad wanted me to give a demonstration in front of the entire company. I barely knew how the gloves worked, and I didn’t want to fuck it up and embarrass him. I said I needed more time, and I only had the company’s best interest at heart. He called me disrespectful and a coward. He took one glove from me and put it on his right hand. It all happened so fast, but I saw his fist coming at my face, so I raised my left hand to try to block him. No one knew for sure which glove misfired, so the whole thing was written off as an accident. Or what was it? An equipment malfunction, that’s right.”

Tears prick at the corner of my eyes. “Oh, Zuko. That’s—”

“It was no accident, though,” he adds through gritted teeth. “Because my dad came to see me in the hospital and told me it was to teach respect. And that suffering would be my teacher. That’s always his line whenever he—“ Zuko stops short and clears his throat. “Uncle was there that day, and he knows the truth. He was the one who took care of me afterward. Still does.”

“Zuko, I’m—“

“Don’t.”

I know he doesn’t want my apologies or my pity, so I clarify. “I was going to say, I’m glad you told me. Thanks for trusting me. I trust you, too.”

He probably doesn’t have a clue how incredibly huge this confession is for me.

Or… maybe he does? His eyes go wide, even the half-lidded one his father marred so carelessly just to teach a lesson, that bastard.

“Katara, that… that means a lot. Besides Uncle, I’ve never told anyone before.”

Zuko’s gaze meets mine, and I don’t see a broody boy with a mysterious mark anymore. Yes, he will always have the scar and its horrific story, but he is beautiful to me—strong, enduring, and trustworthy. The wounds run deep, but he is not calloused. He is healing.

This makes me feel safe with him. And I haven’t felt that way in a long time.

He also makes me feel something else, and now that kissing is an option…

Zuko yelps when I launch myself from my seat and into his lap. Armrest be damned! Do not get in the way of me and my man! That’s right, I just claimed him. Sokka is probably going to freak and swear off meat for a week when he finds out. I entertain no further thought about my overprotective brother as I plunge my tongue into the soft warmth of Zuko’s mouth. Mmmmm.

“Hmm-mmm.” Someone coughs behind us.

Heat rises to my cheeks as I scramble to my feet. Zuko leans forward and buries his face in his hands. The intruder just laughs.

“Hey, I know you.” I point with a shaky finger. “You were at Iroh’s July Fourth party.”

“Yes, I was,” the man replies. “Some of your uncle’s buddies were taking bets on the first kiss. Bumi said before the party, Jeong Jeong said during the party, and Iroh said not yet because it would take a long time for Zuko to work up the nerve. Who won the bet, I wonder?”

“Well… I initiated the first kiss. So… I win!” I fold my arms across my chest.

Zuko presses his fingers to his temples and rolls his eyes. “Katara, this is Noren.” He then tips his head toward the man. “And Noren, this is Katara.”

[5hfanfiction]

R is for Revenge - Chapter 12

A/N: Hey guys! WOW it’s been long. haha. Here’s Chapter 12! I actually split this in two, and the other part’s coming up soon!

I’m a little busy so i didnt get a chance to post this, but you can always check @ https://www.wattpad.com/story/88012466-r-is-for-revenge-camren for the other chapters! I am posting it here one by one, so it can align with the current update at wattpad. Enjoy!

CAMILA

I’m sweating. I definitely am sweating.

It’s Thursday, and I’m meeting Lauren in about half an hour and I don’t know what to do.

We’ve both agreed on a Friday for a second formal date and a night before it actually happens, I’m glued to the floor and my knees are trembling non-stop.

No, actually, my feet are not glued on the floor. I’m pacing impatiently in the room.

Don’t get me wrong, I planned for our date really well. What else would I have told Allyson regarding tomorrow? I’m just anxious why she’d wanted me to meet her now. I can’t tell if there’s something wrong, but based on her serious text message saying she wants to see me at my house, that alone made me wonder.

Is she having doubts about us now?

There wasn’t really an ‘us’, for now, but this kind of relationship that we have is unexplainably beautiful.

Dinah knocked on my room slightly. I furrowed my eyebrows, because why would she knock when she can just barge in?

“Chanch?” my best friend’s head popped in my room. “Uhm, do you remember that offer you told me last summer?”

“About your tuition? Yes of course,” I recalled. “Come inside. Why did you knock?”

“Nothing,” she bit her lip nervously. “Just for formalities.”

I arched my eyebrows and laughed at her. “Formalities? Since when?”

Dinah released a long sigh and headed towards my direction. “You know I still don’t approve of that. I mean, I’m grateful Camila, but that’s just too much.”

I shook my head at her worries. “No. I insist, and besides, you deserve it China. You’re studying for your family and I want nothing more than to help you.” I smiled and pulled her in an embrace. “Let’s not talk about this anymore okay? I’ve made up my mind and you should never feel like a burden to me because you’re not. You’ve helped me and you’ve been there for me more than anyone else, so it just seems fitting that I give back everything.”

“I’m not asking for anything back, Mila.”

I nodded at Dinah, who’s looking at me skeptically. “I know that. I just want to, okay?”

I walked towards my drawer and fished out the card for my best friend. I had it prepared connecting to my own account so that she won’t have to worry.

“No more hesitancy, Hansen,” I spoke sternly but also playfully and handed her the card. “Here. Don’t you dare be ashamed of asking me for help or anything that you need or else.” I left a threat and I was instantly relieved when Dinah slapped my forearm.

“Shut up Chanch,” she countered. “You can’t even walk without falling on your butt and now you dare threaten me?”

I rolled my eyes at her and hugged her once again. “We’re good, okay?”

She smiled at me when we both pulled away. “Yeah we are. I didn’t come here only for that though.”

“Why? What’s wrong?” I asked abruptly, panic-stricken.

“Nothing’s wrong,” Dinah nudged me by my shoulder. “Your girl is waiting in the living room by the way.”

My face turned from panic-stricken to mortified.

“What?” I half shouted, half whispered. I struggled to find my phone only to realize that it has 3 messages from Lauren saying she’s already arrived. “Fuck, I didn’t know she’s already downstairs.”

Dinah laughed obnoxiously and exited my room. “She looks hella good, Chanch. Get your ass in the living room pronto!” She winked at me before closing my door.

After checking my face in the mirror for about five times, I decided to go down to the living room to meet Lauren. She’s currently sitting on the sofa and her green-eyes are focused on the television screen. Lauren’s watching the newest episode of Game of Thrones and that’s pretty much the reason why she didn’t notice me making my way towards her.

“Hey,” I said casually, walking to where she’s sitting.

The porcelain beauty perked up at the greeting and as soon as she laid her eyes on mine, she jumped and squealed ecstatically and pulled me in a hug.

Lauren grabbed the collar of my shirt and pulled me in for a brief kiss.

“Hi, Camz,” she greeted enthusiastically when we both pulled away.

“Somebody missed me,” I smirked and she buried her face in my shoulder.

“I did miss you,” she mumbled.

I wrapped my arms around her shoulder and moved backwards so we can sit on the sofa. Lauren sat on my lap, our legs intertwined beneath the cluster of cushion and my arms circling hers and her torso securely.

I kissed the top of her head and sighed. “You saw me at school not hours ago,” I chuckled slightly. “Is everything okay, Lo?”

“It is now,” Lauren replied shortly.

“What’s wrong, babe?” I tilted her head and forced her eyes to lock on mine. “No lies please. Talk to me.”

Lauren let out a tired smile and looked at me. “Don’t get mad, Camz.”

“I can’t promise. You’re scaring me,” I frowned. “What happened?”

“Promise me first that you won’t get mad,” Lauren insisted.

Really, with those green eyes I can’t bring myself to not grant her request.

“Okay,” I gave in. “I promise. Now tell me what happened.”

She played on my fingers nervously before opening her mouth to speak. “So, Lucy approached me today at my final class,” she intertwined our fingers together. “And she asked me if we can grab dinner tomorrow.”

I sat up suddenly, alarmed and with a shaky breath, I asked Lauren for her response. “And you said?”

“I said no,” She smiled a little and the lump in my throat vanished even if I didn’t realize it existed in the first place. “But, I did say yes, too.”

My eyes widened as soon as I registered the words which came out from the green-eyed beauty’s lips.

“What?” My grip on her fingers loosened and the space between us on the couch enlarged.

“Calm down, Camz it’s not like that,” she pleaded.

“Lauren, this girl left you and she hurt you,” I explained. “Don’t you realize that? I know it must be hard, but do you think I’d let you go to her?

“I’m coming with you if you’re going to meet with her,” I crossed my arms and waited patiently for her answer.

After several staring contests, she finally caves in. “Fine.”

“Why do you want to meet her anyway?” I asked bluntly.

Lauren reached for my hand and as much as I want to be angry and mad, I want to understand her side as well. She hasn’t explained anything to me yet, so it’s unfair to be jumping on conclusion.

As soon as her fingers touched my skin, I acted on impulse and retracted my hand.

“Camz,” she moved closer and tried holding my hand again. This time, I let her.

“Please understand,” she spoke just above a whisper. “I just wanted to talk to her about what happened between us. I don’t want her back, trust me.”

My heart ached at the sight of her. Her eyes expressed sadness and the vibrant color was nowhere to be seen.

I closed my eyes briefly and spoke up. “It’s not you I don’t trust Lauren. It’s her.”

I cupped her face and Lauren instantly leaned in to my hand. “I don’t want her to think that she can ever lay another finger on you because I won’t let that happen. You won’t be hurt anymore, not when I’m around.”

I rubbed small circles on her smooth face and leaned in to kiss her forehead. “Let me be there for you, Lauren.”

She nodded. “Okay, Camila.”

“When will you see each other?” I scooted forward, claiming my first position of cradling her in my arms.

“I really don’t know when, Camz,” she replied. “I just said not tomorrow because we have a date.”

“Does she know we’re kind of like, a thing now?”

Lauren slowly turned her head to face me. “Yeah about that, I think I forgot to mention that we’re dating.” Her cheeks turned red. “I mean, I’m not a fan of public relationship and all those stuff. I don’t need nosy people figuring out my relationship when they don’t have anything to do with it. But if it bothers you, maybe I can drop hints like purposely shoving you to the lockers and kissing you in the middle of the hallway or we can always make-out in front of- “

I kissed the rambling off of Lauren’s mouth to shut her up.

“Lo, stop,” I giggled softly. “You’re rambling. It’s fine by me.” I assured her. “Besides, I’m not a fan of public relationships as well. Actually, I’m not a fan of the public in general,” I winked at the green-eyed beauty suggestively. “But yeah, if it helps to make her realize that you’re mine, I’m not complaining about making-out in front of her,” I finished with a smirk.

Lauren laughed and kissed me softly on my cheeks. She turned her head towards the television and continued watching the show.

“Thanks Camz,” she smiled, her green eyes softening under my gaze.

I giggled back, pressing a gentle kiss on her forehead. “You’re welcome.”

“So,” Lauren trailed off. “About that date tomorrow, what’s it like?”

“I’m not going to tell you anything,” I answered cockily. “That would basically ruin the surprise.”

Lauren pouted in front of me, and my gaze flickered from her green orbs to her lips, then back to her eyes again. “Don’t you dare try flirting your way in, Jauregui. You won’t convince me.”

The green-eyed woman jutted her lips in response. Such a kid.

“Ugh, Lauren stop it. It’s not working,” I rolled my eyes at her.

“But Camz, I don’t know what to wear or how to prepare for it basically, so I need you to give me a hint,” she playfully slapped my arm. “Just one teeny-tiny hint and then I’m good.”

“No.”

“Do I have to tickle my way in instead?” Lauren grinned at me mischievously. It took me about 2 seconds to register what’s going on next before it was too late. Her fingers poked me on my sides and I almost fell off the couch, trying my best to get away from her grasp.

“Tell me what’s going to happen tomorrow!” Lauren shouted as she tickled me. The green eyed beauty is straddling me now, and there’s no way I can get out from here.

I actually considered calling Dinah for help, but I doubt she’ll help me. I have this theory that in a situation like this one, she’d definitely help the opponent. Plus, Lauren and I’s position kind of screams a teasing.

“Stop Lauren!” I gasped for air. “Okay! Okay!”

“A small hint won’t give it all away, Camila,” she grinned at me. I’m so relieved she’s done tickling me, otherwise I would have peed in my pants because of too much laughter.

I arched my eyebrows slightly at her suggestion. I really can’t say no to this woman, can I?

“Fine,” I huffed, crossing my arms. “The first part involves latitude.”

Lauren’s figure practically froze on top of me on the sofa. Her brows are knitted in confusion and her eyes are looking around probably searching for information regarding tomorrow’s event.

“What the hell, Cabello?” she whined, slightly getting up. “What do I get from that? What does that mean? Don’t you dare spend a lot for this because I will definitely kill you.”

I smirked at her and bit the inside of my cheek. She really looks adorable right now. “Nuh-uh you won’t. Just tell your parents you’ll be gone for the weekend and be ready to pack a few clothes, Lo.”

/

“Is everything stable Ally?” I chewed on my fingernails while talking to my cousin on the phone. Just a few more hours till Lauren and I’s second date, and I’m making sure everything’s perfect.

“Yup.”

“What about the Australian permit?”

“Yup.”

“When did it take off? We’re leaving today and it’s not here yet.”

I booked the hotel already, and made a reservation at the best restaurant I can find. Although, I’m pretty sure Lauren won’t approve my choice considering the cost, I can’t help but feel obligated about this second date. For me, this is another chance to prove myself to her.

“Calm down Mila, it took off yesterday so it should land soon,” I heard Ally said. “It should be there in about half an hour or less.”

“Okay,” I mumbled.

“What do you need a heli for?” she asked me politely.

“Well,” I shyly replied. Ally doesn’t know anything about Lauren and I and I guess it’s best if I can provide her with some details. “There’s this girl…”

My cousin laughed heartily in the speakers of my phone. “I knew it!”

I was blushing profusely yet again. I’m not a fan of telling other people about my feelings but Ally isn’t just another person.

“Ally!” I complained. “I’ve had enough of Dinah here. Don’t you dare tease me.”

“No I won’t Mila,” Ally chuckled slightly. “I’m just so surprised. You don’t usually do this you know? And there isn’t anyone else back here for that matter except for that boy Austin. This one seemed pretty serious.”

“Well, I am serious about her Ally,” I replied, slightly smiling. “I really really like her.”

“Somebody’s got it bad!”

“You can’t blame me,” I laughed. “Lauren holds the galaxy in her eyes.”

“Ohhh,” my cousin replied teasingly. “So her name is Lauren, huh?”

“Yeah,” I countered sheepishly. “Don’t tell anyone okay? Not Sofi, not mom, not even Jason.”

“Of course. Speaking of Jason, I need to ask you something about him- “

“Mila!” Dinah’s voice erupted, cutting Ally and I’s conversation. “The flying thing is here!”

It was an abrupt stop, but a stop nonetheless. “Ally, call me back okay?” Excitement coursed through my veins and it might be a little rude but I hung up on my cousin as soon as I heard her mutter her goodbyes. I threw my phone on my bed and rushed towards the terrain behind the mansion.

I found my best friend standing on the wide plain that stretched about a hundred meters away from the house. It’s the perfect landing site for the ‘flying thing.’

Dinah struggled to keep her long hair from waving. “Chancho! Are you sure about this?!” I heard her shout.

“Yes!” I shouted back. The blades rapidly sliced the air, but finally toned down when the pilot shut the engine. I saw a very familiar face who hopped out of the pit and jogged slightly towards me while waving his hand.

My crossed arms untangled themselves as I waved frantically back to my childhood friend. Christopher is one of our servant’s son. He dreamt of being a pilot one day, so my father helped him in his studies. There’s nothing that can compare to his determination in finishing his education, and look where he is right now.

“Miya!” He shouted, and engulfed me in a giant hug. Christopher is about 6 feet tall and damn, drop dead handsome. He carries these hazelnut orbs and a dazzling smile everywhere that make the girls go loco. I bet he swoons every woman’s heart whenever he grins.

Every woman except me of course.

“Hi Top!” I grinned and returned his embrace. “I haven’t seen you in ages!” I proceeded to ruffle his dirty blonde hair and scrunched up my face towards him.

“Well hello, I missed you too Miya,” Christopher chuckled, kissing the crown of my head.

“Hello? Excuse me?” Dinah huffed jokingly from a far. She’s got her arms crossed over her chest, and one of her eyebrows raised.

“Right!” I laughed at Christopher who’s wearing a confused look on his face. “That Polynesian over there is my best friend, Dinah. You remember her?”

“No, but she looks familiar,” my childhood friend replied. “I guess I’ve seen you at Cabello manor in Los Angeles once or twice.”

“Dinah, this is my long lost twin Christopher,” I joked.

“Been there quite a few times,” Dinah nodded and outstretched her arm. Christopher reached and shook it slightly as a formal greeting.

“So, you drive this baby huh?” My best friend suddenly asked, pointing towards the helicopter on my lawn.

Christopher smiled proudly. “Yeah that’s one of theirs. EC 130 is the name. Not really the fastest but one of my personal favorites.”

“You drove this for me?” I asked, baffled.

“Yeah,” he chuckled. “When Allyson told me about your little request, I personally put myself in. Plus, I know you want someone who’ll take good care of your heli.”

“Woah, you’re not joking?” I asked again, leading us inside the house through the backdoor.  Dinah on the other hand, skipped her way towards the now inactive vehicle. She’s suddenly curious now, huh?

“Nah,” Christopher placed his arms around my shoulders. He stopped abruptly when we reached the living room and gasped. “Wait, this is your house? How small!”

I looked up to see a playful smirk on his lips. This made me elbow his ribcage.

“Ow,” He winced jokingly. “I’m surprised.”

“Don’t be a clown, Top.”

“I try.”

Christopher plopped comfortably on living room and glanced around the house. “I expected a house larger than this, Miya.”

“Yeah well, I’m not as fancy as you think I am,” I laughed, making a beeline towards the recliner on his left.

“No, you were never the fancy one,” He chuckled. “That’s more like your brother.”

“You still talk to Jason?” I inquired. Christopher and Jason weren’t exactly the best of friends. Hell, I doubt the relationship that they have is even close to friendship. They talk to each other, but only as a gesture of courtesy.

“Only for a few moments especially when it’s only necessary,” He admitted, shifting on the sofa slightly. “Since your little getaway, he stayed more often in the main branch than before.”

“Oh,” I let his words sink in. “He’s never active in the company especially at my place.”

Dinah came from the kitchen holding a tray of juice and sandwiches.

I arched my eyebrow at her. “What are you doing?”

“Offering you guys a snack?” she shrugged.

“Why is that?” I laughed playfully. Dinah never offered anyone food. Even in Lauren’s first visit she never prepared anything.

“Don’t be rude, Cabello,” Christopher stood up and pinched my cheeks. He reached over to get the tray from a very struggling Dinah and set it on the table in the middle of the living room. “Thank you Dinah.”

I could’ve sworn Dinah’s cheeks burned deep scarlet.

“This is really good, Dinah,” Christopher mumbled between bites.

“See Walz?” my best friend sneered at me. “At least he knows how to appreciate.”

I laughed silently and shook my head. When Christopher was not paying attention, I turned my head to Dinah and gave her an “I know what you’re doing” look.

“Don’t you have a date to prepare for, Mila?” she stressed and I had to bite my inner cheeks to prevent me from doubling over. She was actually flirting and it took me a few moments before I even realize.

I raised both of my arms in surrender and stood up. “Alright whatever you say.”

I jogged my way back to my room to pack a few clothes for the trip. Lauren would be here soon and I need to be ready for a weekend getaway yet again. I decided to text her a short message just in case she forgets.

She might forget, right?

To: Lo (4:30pm) An hour before the second date! Can’t wait! Don’t forget, okay? xx

To: Lo (4:30pm) Don’t forget to bring clothes! See you later xx

I nodded in satisfaction before locking my phone. I grabbed a handful of clothes and tossed it on my suitcase. My phone vibrated somewhere beneath the pile, so I dug under it to find the device.

Caller ID showed Jason.

I swiped left to answer his incoming call. “Hola, brother.”

“Mila!” He shouted at me angrily. “What’s this I found out?! Christopher flew one the heli’s to you?”

Wait, how did he know?

“What?” I asked quizzically. “Wait, how did you know?”

“Doesn’t matter,” he uttered. “Why? Weren’t you thinking?! God you’re so unbelievable! What’s the heli for?”

He does not talk to me like this. Well, not until now.

“Excuse me?” I countered. “First of all, I have a license to drive the helicopter. Second, it’s one of mine and it’s not yours nor the company’s. Third, Christopher volunteered himself to pilot the damn thing and he’s under my command, not yours. I don’t see any problem in there.”

“I’m sorry did you just talk to me like that?” He spat.

“What’s your problem with the heli anyways?”

“Mila, you said you wanted to keep your life private. That would just blow away everything,” my brother huffed. “Answer my question! What’s the heli for?”

“It’s none of your business, Jason,” I replied dryly. “Let’s talk later. I’m busy.”

I ended the phone call even before he can answer. What’s up with him?

Dinah knocked on my door and slightly opened it. “You okay?”

I nodded. “What’s up?”

“Christopher wants to talk to you,” She answered.

“Okay. I’ll be down in a few.”

She shut the door softly and I proceeded to grab my suitcase and my purse which contains all my licenses.

I found Christopher on the same position, his gaze fixed on the television screen. Top noticed my presence and averted his eyes on me.

“Miya,” he ushered me to move on his lap. “You’re like a little sister to me, but Jason is not. Something’s not right.”

“What are you talking about?” I furrowed my eyebrows and lifted my legs so I’m completely sitting on the sofa while my legs dangle on his.

“Just be careful who you trust, okay?” He rubbed my forearm soothingly.

I pursed my lips in a thin line. “Of course. Always, Christopher.”

About an hour later full of laughter and reminisces, someone knocked loudly on the main door.

Dinah had joined in our mini- reunion and laughed obnoxiously at Christopher’s jokes and stories. She’s having fun.

And what I mean by having fun is she’s actually flirting with him, and telling hideous and embarrassing stories of ours when we were kids.

Gee, thanks Dinah.

“I’ll go get it,” Dinah offered and stood up to walk towards the door.

Lauren walked in carrying a small suitcase just like mine. Her bright green eyes lost its color when her gaze landed on my legs atop Christopher.

Oh.

Right.

“Hi babe!” I greeted her cheerily and stood up to kiss her cheeks. Her lips tugged into a forced smile and not once did her eyes left Christopher.

“Hi,” my childhood friend waved. “I’m Christopher.”

“Lauren,” She waved back.

“That’s Christopher. He’s my childhood friend. We’re very close,” I smiled.

Lauren’s eyebrows rose. “I can see that.”

The green eyed beauty’s right arm snaked behind my back and I felt her pull me closer. Her lips touched the top of my head and I recognized this gesture.

Jealousy.

I laughed internally, enjoying the Latina’s behavior.

“You ready for our date?” I asked her, kinking my eyebrows.

“Finally, I thought someone forgot.”

“Funny babe, I organized this.” I slapped her arm. Christopher stood up from the sofa and picked up Lauren and I’s suitcases.

“Let’s go,” he told us.

“Where to?” Lauren asked.

“Oh you’ll see,” I smiled at her. Lauren playfully rolled her eyes at my discretion but followed nonetheless.

“Are you taking me for a backyard date with all the little lights?” she asked and stopped me in my tracks. “Cause that’s so sweet.”

“Better than that,” I chuckled as I dismissed her thought. We’re near the backdoor. “But if it helps, I’ll definitely keep that in mind,” I winked, swinging the door wide open to reveal the EC 130 Helicopter peacefully sitting on the ground.

“Camila!” Lauren stormed towards the vehicle. “Why?!”

My eyes widened at her expression. Wait, does she hate flying? Or heights? Or she doesn’t like it in general?

“You don’t like it?” I asked nervously. I was waiting for her to apologize because of a ruined surprise but instead I felt warm arms around me. Lauren engulfed me tightly in a hug.

“You- we’re going to ride this?” She excitedly inquired after letting me go. “Like, you and I? You will fly this?”

At this point I was beyond relief. I figured it was just my nerves and I can’t help but have a good feeling for this extended date of ours.

“Yes and yes Lo. Is that okay?”

“Of course!” Lauren kissed my forehead, her lips lingering there for a moment. “I can’t believe you. You’re so amazing. We can literally just go to McDonald’s today to eat and I’ll be pretty ecstatic because I’m with you but, damn. I underestimated you, babe. You’re just so mind-blowing.”

“Well,” I chuckled softly, my cheeks burning red because of her way with words. “That’s me.”

I shot Christopher and Dinah a pointed look when I heard them gagging faintly in the background.

“Ready to go?” my pilot asked us after settling the bags inside the helicopter.

With racing hearts and wide grins, Lauren and I proceeded to the helicopter. I clambered on the cockpit, while Christopher helps Lauren on the other side. Dinah stood beside the door where I sat, so I leaned a little closer to whisper something in her ear. “You happy now? Top’s staying here to accompany you.”

“Karla Camila!” Dinah gasped loudly. “That mind of yours!”

“What?” I asked innocently. “I know what you were doing just a while ago.”

“Shut up.”

“Thank me later,” I laughed at my best friend as she stepped backwards.

I checked everything, just to make sure it’s ready for takeoff before glancing towards the older Latina’s direction.

Lauren’s knees kept on bouncing up and down and I gently tugged on her wrists to hold her hand.

Silent message to keep her calm.

“We’ll be fine,” I smiled at her softly.

Lauren laughed at me. “I know. I’m with you. I will always be fine. I guess, I’m just shocked again. I really need to get used to you being hell rich and all these stuff because you just don’t listen to me when I say something simple is enough.”

“Well,” I grinned and navigated the EC 130 up in the air. “That’s me.”

Lauren waved at Dinah and Christopher’s figures down the plain. “So, where to captain?” She turned to face me, excitement painted across her face.

“Melbourne.” I grinned.

“No fucking way, Camila.”

“Yes fucking way Lauren,” I retorted back, laughing on my seat lightly. It’s such a nice feeling to see Lauren like this. And to add to that, I’m the reason behind that sweet resonating sound.

“Victorian Arts Center? You’ve got to be kidding me.” she baffled.

“Actually ‘The Arts Center’ now but same thing and no Lauren, I never kid,” I replied. “Four hours to go babe.”