I DID IT! I GOT ALL 50,000 AND PLUS WORDS DONE! I MADE AN EXTRA PAGE WHICH HOLDS THE EPILOGUE N FINAL TWO CHAPTERS. HERE IS THE LINK:THe final chapters of Crush by: Beth Holoweiko

I ALSO ADD ANOTHER CHAPTER BETWEEN CH. 5 & 6 FOR FUN! I AM SO HAPPY!!!!!

 

Here is my novel called "Crush". A romance about a sheltered girl who falls in love with a guy whose secrets can be her worst nightmare.

 

 

  

 

 

THE FINAL TWO CHAPTERS ARE COMING TOMMOROW 

ALSO INCLUDING THE EPILOGUE!

 

 

Here is the synopsis of the novel:

A relationship begins for Eden, whose life has been a secret in town because of being the D.A's daughter. Her life would be in danger if anyone knew, especially a criminal. She finally gets some freedom and is allowed to go to public school. There she meets the boy of her dreams. He is sweet, a gentlemen, not to mention good looking. Their friendship begins with a good start, not including a few bumps in the road. But as their friendship grows into a relationship, a huge bump comes in their way. She learns that the world is not as she imagined. And her town is the center of it all. Wars between gangs begin. Bonds will be broken and the people she love will fight. Her nightmare will become her reality.

       

 

 

 

 

 My name on NaNoWriMo is Scarlet_blue.  Word count so far: 50107/50,000   

50,107 words so far  

 

Hey, if you don't want to got through the hassle of scrambling th words to find how much you wrote or submitting some of your work only to find out you didn't write enough. Here is a link that can calculate for you how many words you have written, it is so easy!

 

http://www.javascriptkit.com/script/script2/countwords.shtml

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crush

 

 

 By: Beth Holoweiko

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Prologue

 

 

When you’re in love, you feel nothing else. See nothing else. Nothing at all.

Its like something is injected into your body to make you permanently numb.

Its good feeling though, maybe a little scary, only at first.

But, when your in love with someone that is bad for you, the numbing gets stronger, soon, you hear nothing else.

All your desires are directed toward that person.

He wasn’t good for me and I knew it.

He held his secrets and I dare not to question them.

He loves me…

                   And I love him as much.

 

 But, how are you able to love someone who's deepest darkest secrets

can be your own worst enemy.

 

1. At First Sight

 

 

 

 

 

I hate being the new kid when in fact I wasn’t new. I mean I have been living in town for all sixteen years of my life! Being home schooled the whole entire time. For my Sophomore year, I persuaded my Dad, Nate, to finally let me go to school.

“Dad, I’m mature and smarter then you think! You can’t shelter me my whole life!”

“I can if I want to.” He whispered to himself. I stared at my Dad while he was looking away from me. He knew that I was staring at him, the stare I give him when I want something badly. Then his light blue eyes, (which I inherited) turn to me and he began, “You promise you won’t fall into temptation or anything like that?”

“Of course Dad! What did I say? I am mature.” “Temptation is a strong thing you know!”

I knew, my Dad married at seventeen, soon my Mom had me. Then suddenly, she divorced him and left us. Since then he always says to me, “ You reap what you sow with temptation.’ Because in the end he had his heart broken.

“I know Dad, I know. So it’s a yes?” He stared deep into my eyes. “Yes, Eden. It’s a yes.”:

 

So here I am, driving into high school with my Dodge Charger. West Side High School, the notorious school for fights and drugs. Would I survive my first day? Questions popping into my head as I parked. For being a quiet and small school, why are their so many problems? There is very few students yet so many fights? The news said it is a gang related problem. Yeah, right… in this quiet town? How could there be gangs. Stuck in my little conversation in my head, I somehow was in the main office with schedule in hand.

“Miss. Eden Dale, we sure pleased to have you at our school.” The little old lady said behind her too big of a desk. I think her name was Mrs. Anderson.

“I glad to be here.” I said as I walked out of the office. I look down at my schedule, “Ok, English is first, huh.” I whispered to myself. “Building A.” I looked around. Oh, I forgot how small this school is, there is only two big buildings and the main office, excluding the small cafeteria and gym. And the big sign, “Building A” is a big help. As I looked around my surrounding area, most eyes were staring at me. Some who were curious and others just checking me out. Its scary when others look at me. I sometimes wonder if they know I am the District Attorneys daughter. My dad has gotten a lot of pole into jail and most likely a lot of these students are related to them. it’s a good thing that most don’t know. Those who do, which are the rich crowd, know the code in this town. To not tell a secret that can ruin the other rich persons life. The wealthy in this town definitely know not to tell anyone who’s daughter I am. Thinking over the conversation I had in my head earlier, this town is pretty,… non quiet. With all the fights an problems that I’m not suppose to hear, I guess being trapped in a house for all your life leaves you out on things.

“Lost?” a pitchy voice asked from behind. I turned around. “ Eden, Right?”

“Uh, yes. No I’m good.” I replied. The short girl trying to be helpful looked liked she needed help actually. “ Ok, well I am Katy, with a Y.” She gave a huge grin. “ You’re a freshmen too?” She asked pushing me along. “ No, Sophomore.”

“ Oh, ok. ? I overheard a little bit in t he office. That’s why I thought you were a freshman. So…your first year huh?”

“Mmhmm.” I sighed, that’s all I need. Some one to annoy me. “ Well Eden, I think …”

“ Your lost?” I interrupted before she finished. “Well, there is that. But I think I’ve found a new friend.” I stopped in my tracks. Great! I was hoping she wouldn’t think that but no she said it.

I stared at the short red-head and replied as non-sarcastic as can be, “ Well now. That is great! I got to go to class, so I will see you later then.”

“Yeah Eden, see you later!” She yelled since I was already in the crowd of people. The bell ranged while I was talking. Ok, so my first class is in the second floor of building A, which is English.

 

I made sure I got to class early for I won’t get a front seat. Thankfully, I was able to get the farthest seat in the farthest row, away from the teacher. I sat down and started listening to my Zune, since I had time to kill. Before I knew it, class was beginning. I look beside me and some blonde (Cheerleader obviously) was staring at me with bulge eyes, like I was a freak show. I probably don’t look like the other girls with my light blue eyes and dark black hair. I am five feet five, which is tall for most girls around here. Though, I’ve never met my mother really, I most likely inherited her Armenian tan and curves. I decided to widen my eyes back at her, then she turned away.

“Okay class! Pay attention!” yelled the balding man in the front of the room, the teacher definitely.

“Time to take attendance!” Mr. Buckley, I believe is his name, announced. So, I decided to open up another conversation in my head. While I was making up my mind whether to wear pink tomorrow or red. I kept on hearing my name being said, “ Eden, Eden, Eden”

“Eden Dale!!” “Huh?” I responded. Everyone in class burst into laughter. I look around, embarrassed, my cheeks burning into a blush. “ Are you here or not Ms. Dale?” Mr. Buckley questioned. “ Yes, sorry!” I looked down, to embarrassed to look up again. I waited awhile, then I glanced around again. I scanned the room, making sure no one was staring at me. Then suddenly, my eyes landed on the most beautiful amber eyes that I have ever seen. His face was perfect, everything about him looked perfect. His dark brown hair, his beautiful light colored skin, his masculine face and bone structure. Like I said, perfect. Not realizing it, he was staring back at me. His mouth gaping, his eyes intense. Is there something on my face?

“Vann Field!” Mr. Buckley yelled. “ Here.” he said, not turning to face the teacher. Vann…Field.

“ What are you looking at?” the blonde whispered to me. I turned unwillingly to face her. “ What do you mean?” I asked. She rolled her eyes over toward his direction.

“ I know you are checking him out. Eden right?” “ No, I am not.” I whispered harshly. Who does she think she is? Getting into my business. “ A word of warning Eden, he is not what you think.”

“ And how would you know that?” Annoyance was now in my tone.

“ Well for one thing, he doesn’t date… at all! I asked him out, at least twice, and he said no! No one says no to me!”     

“I know, how could he do that?” She finally got the sarcasm I was giving her.

“ Well, sorry! Just trying to help out here.” “ I know. Sorry. Carlie, right? I am not into dating as of now, so don’t worry.”

“ Okay. Sorry about my face earlier. I was amazed that the D.A’s daughter was here. I thought he locked you up in your room like twenty-four seven.” Of course Carlie would know about me being his daughter, she is in the rich class. Still though, not a lot of rich people know.

“ No, only twenty-three seven. Sorry about my sarcastic responses. I am very stereotypical, I thought you were a snobbish cheerleader looking for some drama.”

“ No, no. Not snobbish maybe just a little bit but I am a dramatic cheerleader!”

“ Well, I got most of it.” I responded. I glanced back over to Vann, who was now looking out the window. “ Not what I think”, as if I would have a chance with him.

The day flew by so quickly and now I am entering the lunchroom for some lunch. I got my food, which looked liked it was still alive. I was trying to find a seat but there was no where to sit. I really didn’t know any one. Only Carlie the dramatic cheerleader and Katy the stalking freshman. Yes, stalking. I caught her twice following me and five times at least, staring at me. She is really freaking me out. Thank goodness freshmen have a separate lunch or I would suffer.

“ Hey Eden! Sit by me!” someone yelled. I look toward the voice came from to see Carlie waving at me. Well, lunch with her this one day shouldn’t be too bad. I sat to the seat next to her and she introduced me to her posse‘. I got most of it, there is Sara, Jake, Nancy, Tom who is Nancy’s brother and Brodie, her “ boy toy” as she called him. “ This is Eden you guys, isn’t she gorgeous?”

I got token back by her comment. I recall on “Mean Girls” when the plastic leader would say something is pretty but meant the opposite. I hope it is not like that, I really do not want to be a plastic! “ Thank you Carlie.” “ Oh Eden. You got to know how beautiful you are, silly!”

Oh God help me, I won’t be able to take much of this and the peppiness. Then, out of know where an angel of light appeared. Wow, that was overly done.

“ Eden? Am I correct? Would you mind joining me for lunch with me and my friends? My name is Vann, we have English together.” “ Uh…” I was too surprised to actually answer. He… was talking… to me? And … asking me to eat lunch…with him? No way! Then reality sucked me out of my thoughts, “ Eden, don’t go off into your own world, answer him”, my self was telling me.

“Yeah! Sure!” I squeaked more then answered, I looked back at Carlie. “Is that okay?” I really didn’t want to be rude. Though I should of jumped up and yelled, “ Thank you Jesus!” but that would of gone to far. “ I am not your mother, so go ahead.” Now, I heard the sarcasm in that.

I then followed Vann to a table full of guys. Standing next to him as he introduce me to them made me feel small. He was tall not like a giant but a perfect height. I am only like five feet five he must of been six feet or little more. “ Guys,” he announced, “ this is Eden from my English class. I just saved her form a tormented death. She was sitting with Carlie’s group." Shock lit upon there faces and some gasped. “ And you… survived?" One asked. “ Well, it wasn’t so bad…”

“ Eden…,” Vann interrupted, putting a hand on my shoulder. “ Your face said it all. You were suffering over there. Don’t be a martyr. I had to save you." I looked up to his smirking face, I felt my face blushing. He must of saw it too, when he was staring back at me. He then started turning a bit red himself so he turned away quickly. Okay, there is something wrong with my face!

“ Well, thank you.” I whispered quietly, mostly to myself. “ No problem.” he whispered back.

“ Hey V, aren’t ya going to introduce us to her?” another one asked. “ Oh yeah. This one here,” ( the one who asked the question) ,“ is Bobby.” Now, Bobby looked just as the name sounded. A redneck, a BIG redneck with a John Deer shirt. “ And this is Ryan,” ( the one who asked about my survival), “ my good friend.” he continued. Ryan wasn’t so bad looking. He looks a little rough but not to badly. “ Finally, my older brother, Luke.” Vann was definitely cuter then Luke. Luke had a scar across his right eye and had shaggy,greasy light brown hair. Unlike Vann, who had a more cleaner cut look. “ Nice to meet you guys!” I grinned while sitting myself down,… next to Vann. How can this be happening? I see the most perfect guy that I have ever seen in my life and suddenly, on the same day, I am eating lunch with him. This is something you will find in those gooey romance books. But happening to me? Eden Dale? To good to be true! Wait, Eden he might just being polite to you, saving you from a mental torture. But wouldn’t any guy, who obviously despises Carlie’s group and notices my suffering face come and save me? Why was it him?

“ So, Eden. How is school treating you?” Bobby asked with a mouthful of macaroni.

Not to bad, I have to admit.” Which was true. “ Hey Bobby! Guess what I heard?” Ryan interjected.

“ What man?” finishing his mouthful, ugh, can’t stand that. “ I somewhat heard who is going to our school now. The District Attorney’s kid. I overheard a bit from the rich crowd until they notice me ease dropping. I mean they don’t really know who it is themselves. There is a few Dales coming this year to our school. It could be a guy or some chick. Man, if I met him … or her, …That kid’s father locked up my dad, who didn’t do anything wrong…I can just...” Wow. Should I tell him? Tell the truth? I peeked to Vann beside me and saw him looking at me. Does he know? He stared at me, then closed his eyes and shook his head slightly. He knows and he doesn’t want me say anything.

“ Eden,” Vann whispered in my ear. “ Yeah.” I replied. “ What is your next class?”, seeming very interested. “Uh, Science, I believe.” “ And, who is your teacher?” he inquired some more.

“Mr. Steal, I think” Why does he want to know? “Good, we have science together. We will walk together then.” I gulped really loudly after that and felt the blush coming on. “ Okay…” I gulped again. Lunch was over and we walked silently together towards class. Silently! I thought we would at least talk some but I guess not. Then suddenly, someone grabbed my wrist and spun me around. Vann had me face to face to him. Except for the one foot or less height difference that kept my face to his chest. I didn’t dare to look up, I was a little scared.

“ Eden, we need to talk about something.” He then let go of my wrist, so I forced myself to look up at him. He stared at me intensely and lowered his face to me.

“ I know you are the District Attorney’s daughter. That is good for you but you can’t tell no one else. Very few know that you are his daughter and that is good. Those few, as you may already know, know not to tell others. Some sort of code thing, something like that. If you let it be known who you are, either to your friends, my friends or my brother. Just anyone, you’ll be in a constant danger!” “ Why are you telling me this?”

“ You are an innocent person. Most kids here do not have good backgrounds. Your father has locked away a lot of their friends and family and they are ticked off. I am telling you this as someone who… I just don’t want to see someone like you hurt. I am just going to keep an eye on you, don’t worry. I got you back.”

“Okay…, what makes me not to worry about you? Obviously, my father has done something to your family since you don’t want me to tell you brother.”

“ Eden, I am not lying to you when I say I got your back. I mean it. So…”

“ You do not know me!” I interrupted loudly. “ I can handle myself, I am not a wimp! I am not going to flaunt that I am you-know-who’s-daughter! I am not a idiot. And who do you think you are acting like you know me and that I need your help?!” I stomped off to class. Where did that anger come from? That wasn’t me. I would have been more like, “ Oh! My knight in shining armor!” with googly eyes. Eden what is wrong with you? I was at the door of the classroom when the late bell rang. All the seats were taken, except for a table with two empty seats. “ I guess we will be sitting together, huh?” a husky voice whispered from behind. I turned, it was Vann. I had nothing to say. I just walked to my,… our seats. He followed closely. I took my seat and scooted as far away from him as possible. An hour with this guy who actually thinks he knows me. Not too long ago I was mentally worshipping him. In one day I adore a man and now I feel like despising him. Carlie was right, “ he is not what I think.” I felt a poke on my arm then a piece of paper slipped under my hand. It was from…him. Might as well read it.

“Eden,” it read “ I am sorry about earlier. I do not know you, we hardly know each other. I don’t know what got into me. Eden, there are things I can’t really explain to you. But just watch your back, ok”

I decided to write him back:

 

“ Vann, It is nice of you to care but honestly. I am smarter then you think. I have been his daughter for all my life! I can handle myself really. Oh, and by the way, how do you know I am his daughter?”

I slipped it under his hand. I saw peripherally him reading it and making awkward faces. I waited for him to start writing but he didn’t.

 

Only five minutes is left of class and he still didn’t reply back. Then, out no where the note was in front of me.

“ The code I quickly mentioned to you about the rich. Well there are some who are willing to breaking it. For example, Carlie. That is how I know. I am the only one who knows who is not classified as rich. And I will make sure to keep it that way. I am so sorry if I am overwhelming you. But trust me when I say, if someone not good finds out. Your life will be in constant chaos. Do you understand?”

I only had one minute left to reply. I didn’t want to talk to him afterwards face to face. It would feel awkward for me. So I had only one thing to say to him. I wrote:

“Why should I trust you?”

 

 

 

 2. Trust

 

It has been two weeks since I last interacted with him. Two weeks being in school. Two weeks learning what trust is. Trust is defined as believing in the honesty, have trust in, put in the care of. Believe. And hope. I don not know why I am hoping so much to believe him. To believe that he does actually care. Why do I have this painful feeling inside? This guilt! Is it because of the last thing I wrote him? Was I or am I being to harsh? Everyday for the past two weeks, he has been trying to talk to me. But I have been ignoring him and avoiding him. And because of the fact I do not want to hang around him, I have been eating lunch with…Carlie for two weeks. It wasn’t as bad as I expected. All I have to do is nod my head and say, “Oh my god!” Not too hard. Sometimes she asks about Vann and I but I dodge it by asking something about her. Which really distracts her.

She has this mind set that something is going on between him and I. So everyday I have to put down the rumors that I am pregnant with V’s kid or that he has done something horrible to me. I should really be hating her but I just have to deal with it. It is just hard for me, I don’t know how to explain to myself why I am avoiding him. I really do not know. I think I am afraid something will go wrong. Something has already happened. But what if I do become close friends with him? And I do something stupid like always or because I am Nate’s daughter and my life can be in danger and he gets hurt. I think that is it! I am more afraid of hurting him rather then him hurting me. Though, I barely know him I feel this strange urge to be with him. To just be there. But like he told me, “My life will be in constant chaos” if anyone, not just anyone, a criminal finds out who I am. But if Carlie would tell V, she could tell anyone. So I spoke to her last Friday during English.

“Carlie, can I ask you something?” “Sure Eden.” I continued, “How many people know that I am Nate’s daughter?” She looked up for a minute, thinking most likely, which is rare. “Not many actually. Some are aware that his kid has came to our school. They don’t even know if you are a guy or a girl. Anyways, your Dad keeps a low profile about you. My dad told me about you, he works with your Dad ,he is a lawyer himself. Brodie, my boy toy know. His dad plays golf with your Dad. The principle and school guards know of course. Well that’s it I think.”

“Vann knows because of you.” “Yes Eden, he knows. A mistake a made. Everyone makes a bad judgment.” “Carlie, are you going to tell anyone else? Any more bad judgments you are going to make that I should be aware of?” “ I am sorry Eden. I won’t tell anyone else. I promise. I will keep to the code.” After that day, I decided I will talk to him. Today would be a good day because we will have a prep rally and so I will be able to pull him aside to have a good chat. IBut am still deciding on what to say, how to say it, and why I am saying it.

 

Lunch was now already over and everyone is heading to their final class to be dismissed to the gym. So when V and I get dismissed, I will grab him or something like that. Yeah, that will do. We were already in class. Vann sitting beside me looking depressed as ever. After a week of trying to communicate with me and failing at it, he has kept to himself. Not looking at me, neither does he do his school work. I feel terrible every time I look at him. That the fact is, I am responsible for the state he is in. Principle Oz finally came on the speaker: “Okay West Side Students! Time to head to the gym!" Everyone, I mean everyone ran out of the room, including the teacher. Except for me and…him. I looked over towards him seeing the shock on his face. Probably shocked I am still here and didn’t run out. Shocked that I am staring back at him. Words were not coming out of my mouth like I wanted it to be. I couldn’t think properly, I was mesmerized by him. I have not looked at him directly for so long. It didn’t help that his amber eyes were burning into mines. I suddenly felt a little strength to say something. “ Hi.” I croaked. He made a confused face and looked behind as if to check that I was talking to him. “Hey Eden.” He replied. It is me and him, all alone in the room. No one else was here. “ V, we need to talk.” “Yes we do.” he agreed.

“First off, I need to apologize for my behavior. That was not me. I am sorry.”

“It’s ok Eden. I should be the one apologizing…”

“No Vann! You shouldn’t. You have done nothing wrong but being helpful. I reacted like a child. I truly appreciate your helpfulness. If it wasn’t for you, I would be lost. Who knows who would know my secret if you didn’t set me straight a bit.” I had to admit. I would have probably let some people know by accident. “But you don’t trust me still?” I was afraid he would say that. The thing is, I still don’t know what to say when he would bring that up. I replied, “For the past two weeks, I have been thinking. Mostly thinking bout you and what you have said to me. I know how corny this is, I mean what I am about to say but I have been learning what trust is. I know I definitely don’t trust Carlie but maybe you can show me how to trust…you.” He smirked at what I told him. I knew it would sound corny! “Eden.” He began, “That was not corny at all. I want you to trust me as your friend. So whatever it takes for you to trust me, I will do it! Ok.”

“Thank you V, for understanding me. To tell you something truthful, is always hard for me to trust someone. My Dad made me this way. He can never trust anyone, including me. Thankfully, I am a little better then him. Well, more then a little. If he saw us here together, all alone! He would have a stroke!” He looked away and started chuckling. “I bet.” he whispered. He looked back at me and smiled. “Do you want to do something tonight?” He asked. He gave me a little smirk. “Like what?” I replied. “Like a movie or get something to drink. Whatever you want.” I thought about it. Something that I want to do… "There is a party going on, on First Street. We can go there.” I said.

“Ok, we will go there then.” He gave me a big smile with his response. But something just clicked in my head, a major click. “V, I can’t. My dad…” I sighed in disappointment. I can never do anything. He would never let me go out at night, especially with a guy. “Hmm…that is a problem.” He whispered to himself. “Do you have a security system?” he asked. “Yes.” I replied, “ An alarm system that only sets off if someone comes in not out.”

“Then come out. I won’t come in, you just get out.” He grinned at his “genius” plan.

“How? My front door? No way! My Dad’s room is by there.”

“Your window Eden.” He replied

“My window? On the second floor? Uh how?” “I will catch you.” He gave me a sly smile. “Catch me? Are you crazy?” “Yes.” Chuckling again to himself. “Well, since I am trying to be trustful. I guess the window will work.” This would be one step in trusting him. “ Good Eden. Thank you for trusting me about this.” He stared deeply into my eyes again. I felt like I was about to drool. So I turned away and faced the board. “So V,” I turned back to him, “What time would you ‘catch’ me?” I giggled trying to make it sound cute. “Well, parties around here start usually near Ten and end whenever. Since today is Monday and we have school tomorrow, I will bring you back home at Two or Three. So then, I will pick you up at Nine. Oh, don’t forget to leave your window open when we leave.” “Yeah, my dad should be asleep by then. He has a lot of work tomorrow. Ok, so it is a date!” I stuck out my hand to shake his. He looked at it and smiled back at me while shaking my hand. “A date, huh?” he asked. I don’t know if he was asking himself or me. “Got a problem with it?” I responded trying to get both of us a little less tense. “No, no. Just trying to figure out if it is a friend type of date or a date, date.” He looked up with his deep wondering eyes. I had to look away as always. “How about you decide that for yourself and tell me at school tomorrow and I will tell you what it type it was tomorrow as well. Okay?” I don’t know where this flirtatiousness came from, I have never been flirty before. May it is an instinct for women…maybe. “Okay.” He gave me a twisted smile. He obviously caught on to my flirty act. “I think,” he continued,

“I know what type of date it is going to be but I will tell you tomorrow as you said.” He winked at me and smirked again. I flipped my hair in response. “Ok then, tomorrow. As said.” I responded.

 

I was eating dinner with me dad. He surprised me by taking me out to dinner at a private restaurant near town. We were quiet on the way there and still are quiet. It is about six, so not much time to get ready and sneak out. We were done with the main course and was moving on to desert. I was off in my own world not noticing my father was staring at me. I finally looked up to his curious stare. “Something wrong honey?” he asked. Like usual, he thinks something is up . “Oh, nothing. Thinking about homework and stuff.” I replied. I am totally bad at lies and I rarely lie to my father. Well, more then rarely. “Okay. So what is the ‘stuff ’ you are thinking about? Want to tell me?” he inquired more. “No Dad. I have nothing that is bothering! Why are you so paranoid?”

“ I am not paranoid. And you don’t talk to me in that tone! You hear me?” He raised his voice some. “ I am talking to you this way because I am starting to realize how insanely paranoid you are! You should really get that checked out by a professional instead wasting your money on junk!”

“Eden Nicole Dale! Where has this attitude come from? School? Maybe I should take you out and put you back to home schooling!” He is starting to bring the threats so it is time to bring him the ultimatum. “My attitude is not from school. I think its been building up inside. I need to be more independent. I need freedom. Being locked up is not a protection, it is a good way to make a person insane. If I had more freedom I would not have this attitude. Dad, you need to know what trust is. You need to learn to trust me, yourself and the world. The world isn’t out to get me, no one is. That is all in your mind.” I hope he got what I was saying. “Eden. The world is not safe..”

“The world isn’t out to kill me. You are. You are driving me to the point where I question your sanity and sometimes mine.” He stared at me for a bit. “ Are you calling me crazy Eden?” I knew he would say that. “No dad, I am calling you par-a-noid.” I hope he could understand that at least.

“I am not paranoid, just careful. Very careful.” I can’t believe this!

"I can never get my point across can I? Can we just go home?” He sighed, “As you wish.” He ended with.

The drive home was more then just quiet, it was awkward. It was about to be Seven. Okay I will go take a shower. Act like I am going to bed then do my hair and finally get dress. Yeah, that will do. When we got home I ran to the shower. The shower would help calm me down from what happened at dinner. After my shower I walked to my room instead run and to make me less conspicuous I yelled, “Goodnight Dad!” “Good night sweetie!” He yelled from his office downstairs. I heard the strain in his voice. I got to my room and locked the door. I hope the directions I gave V helped. Okay, need to do my hair.

By the time I finished my makeup and hair it was Eight Thirty. I rummaged through my closet looking for something classy yet still very sexy. I chose a red mini dress that I got last year and never had a chance to wear. I put on silver stilettos to match. Now all I have to do is wait….but how would I know he is here? Duh! Look out the window…in the….dark? Eden don’t worry about that! Okay, just twenty more minutes. Be very patient Eden.

I was patient and twenty minutes did pass. But I still couldn’t see outside. So the problem still was how will I know he is here. As I thought about it I heard a loud clink on my window. I looked out and still saw nothing. I was about to turn around when I heard another clink. I decided to open my window this time. I whispered loudly, “Who’s there?” “Who else?” A voice whispered back.

“V?” I asked. “No, Santa.” responded sarcastically. “Do you have another date? Are you ditching me?” He kept on joking. “Oh shut up! Vann I can’t see you, so how are suppose to catch me?”

“I can see you! Just jump!” he promised and ordered. “Ok.” I got out of my window and

left it cracked. “You better catch me!” I croaked. “Just jump Eden!” he commanded again. And so I did. I open my eyes again and I was in his arms, safe and sound. He stared at me with a huge grin. “Wasn’t so bad, right?” He asked. “No, not bad.” My voice cracked when I answered. He put me down gently, knowing that I was still shaky. “So are you ready to party Eden?”

“Been ready!” Hopefully… He guided me thru the yard to his car which happened to be parked around the corner. It was a beautiful old mustang. “Vann, your car is awesome! I love classic cars.” He seemed shocked by that. “Really? Yeah, it’s a beauty. What car you got?” he asked as we got in his car. “A Dodge Charger.” He looked even more shocked. “What! You are the one in school who owns that car?” “Yep. Its my baby.” He chuckled a bit. “Wow. You got money.” he whispered sarcastically while starting the car. No wonder he parked in the corner, the engine was like a roaring lion. “So princess, I wouldn’t expect you to wear a dress like that, I thought you were a bit more conservative.“ I giggled. “ I got my wild side.“ I grinned. “That is good to know. You not going to get drunk on me?”     “No. I don’t drink. Are you?” I inquired. “Nah. Don’t like alcohol. Its just nasty to me. I like a sip just to try but that is it. Anyways, I am the designated driver here. I don’t want to get in a crash and hurt princess.”      “I am no princess, V." I remarked back. “Really?” he laughed. “Yeah. I am not preppy or snobby or…princessy in any way. Neither am I spoiled.”

“Eden, I do not mean that type but how your special to me. Its just a nickname I have for you. Like people call me V. A nickname.” “Oh.” I really felt stupid. He chuckled a little to himself. “So Vann, why do your friends call you V?” I asked. He didn’t respond right away. He was thinking about it.

“You will find that out later.” He finally said. I didn’t say anymore. It was silent for a while. I hate awkward silences. “We are here.” V broke my thoughts. I look to my right to see a big house. A big house with partying teenagers.

“Ready Princess?”

 

 

 

 

 

 3. The Night

 

 

 

Once you got in the house the music instantly made you deaf. It smelt horrible, who knows what the stench was. Stains were everywhere in colors that you didn’t even know that existed. In the living room everyone was dancing. “What do you want to do first?” Vann asked me, well more like yelling to me. “I don’t know, I am a party virgin. What do we do?” I yelled back. “ I will go get some coke. That is okay, right?” He yelled. “Not the sniffing kind?” I asked. “Oh no! I would not do that. Wait here. I will be back.” And then he left. There I stood by myself with other drunken teenagers. Seeing things that no one should see. I have never felt this awkward. This is a bad idea.

“Hey cutie!” A deep voice whispered from behind. I turn around to face Tom, Nancy’s brother. I haven’t seen him in a while. “Uh, hey Tom.“ I have never heard Tom like this. He is usually more reserved and quiet. “You here by yourself?” He asked then he got closer to me. “No, Vann brought me.” I replied. He looked a bit surprised. “Vann Field? No way, thought he didn’t date. Huh, that is weird..” He trailed off. “Don’t…Date?” I asked myself. “Well, we are not on a date Tom. He is my ride.” Then a huge grin appeared on his face. “Oh, so then. You want to dance with me?” he asked. “Uh…well…sure. Why not?” So he lead me to the living room where everyone was dancing. “Low” started playing so I got low, low and lower to the song. Tom was being descent, not being too frisky or anything like that. Then another song, I did not recognize started playing. Everyone started dancing slower so I sort of went along. Tom then wrapped his arm around my waist and brought me closer to him. I was starting to really feel uncomfortable. I don’t really know him at all. So it had to stop. “Okay Tom! You are going to far! That is enough!” I tried to get loose from his grip but he pulled me closer. “Tom! Let me go please!” I was ordering. “Eden, we are just having fun. Don’t be so serious.” Then he pulled me closer. “Tom, I am not having fun. I am very uncomfortable.” I was able to wiggle out a little bit then he forcefully pulled me back to him. “Tom!” He grabbed my wrist and made me follow him. He took me into a room, where no one was in.

“This isn’t funny! Let me go!” I yelled but he wouldn’t listen. “Come on Eden. I know you like me. I notice the way you stare at me during lunch. Stop being a tease.” I don’t know what he is talking about. I do not like neither do I look at him in anyway. At lunch I am mostly looking in…V’s direction behind ….Tom. Oh! That is why thinks that way. “Tom,” I calmly began, “I do not like you and I was not staring at you during lunch. Do you understand me? I don’t like you. Got it?” He glanced away. “Well,” he began and then he glanced back at me, “I will make you like me.”

“What!?” Then he threw me to the ground. I got back on my knees when he was suddenly in front of me. He put his hands on my face and forced a kiss. I was trying to scream but nothing would come out, nothing at all. I tried hitting his back with my fist but nothing would help. I tried biting but that only made it worst. I closed my eyes and prayed that it would end. Then Tom was away from me suddenly. I opened my eyes and there he was, standing with bug eyes. I sat up some more, cautious that it is going to happen again. But he didn’t look at me, he was looking behind me. He was scared…no he was terrified.

So I decided to turn around. Three tall men stood behind me. I only recognized one of them…Vann. I looked back to Tom and he was gone. My thoughts were rushing to me on what happened and what is happening. I couldn’t think. I am not able to comprehend the fear Tom had but glad that he is gone. I felt a hand on my shoulder and I shuddered. I looked up to meet his eyes, V’s. “Vann…” I whispered to him. His eyes were sad and angered as well. “Eden…are you ok?” he asked slowly, unsure it seemed if it was the right question. “Vann….I…” I could not think of a response. “Eden, did he do anything to you?” he continued. “What?” I said confused.

“Eden, did ...he do ....anything?” he said a bit more slower for I can understand. “No! No, he didn’t do that. V…why…was he scared of you?” He thought about it for a minute. “Three against one, anyone would be scared.”

“No V, his face was filled with terror. He was terrified.” I continued then glanced back to notice that the other two were not there any more. “Who were they?” I asked. “My friends. Dean and Chandler.” “They look older.” I stated. “They are.” He responded. “Eden, look at me. Are you good? We can go somewhere else or I can take you home.”

“I’m a little...yeah lets go somewhere else. But where?” I asked. “I know a place you will love and enjoy. I will surprise you.” He grinned a wicked smile. He got up and held out his hand to help me. He wrapped his arm around me and guided me out of that godforsaken place.

We drove for some time and he still have not told me where we are going. It was starting to get cold so he put his jacket on me. He is making the “date” really nice. We came to a red light in the middle of town, so I looked around, since I have never really admire the place. Then I saw a wall plastered with the name, “Mustangs” and also plastered was the name “Crows.” So I decided to ask V what it was. “V, what is the ‘Mustangs’?” “What?!” his voice cracked. “A mustang or the mustang Eden.” He replied.

“I don’t know. That wall over there says ‘Mustangs’ and ‘Crows’ so I just wanted to know.”

“Oh. Who knows. Probably just put up there for fun.” And he dropped the subject.

“Okay Eden, we are here.” He announced. “Where?” I asked. “Look ahead dummy.” I looked, Vann had taken me to…wait for it…McDonalds. Womp, womp ,wooomp. “Wow! My favorite place!” I said sarcastically. “No not McDonalds, Look behind it.” I looked to see a very unique and cute Café call, “Moonlight Drinks.” “Wow! It is so cute!” I squealed. I jumped out of the car excited to go. “I knew you like it.” And he got out as well. As we walked, he wrapped his arm around my waist like before but more casual. We entered the snazzy café. It was more formal then casual, which was not surprising. “Table for two.” Vann told the lady at the desk. “Hello Vann, back table?” The blond asked. “Of course. Like always.” He responded nonchalantly. Blondie had us follow her to the back. “So V, you go here often?” I asked. “Once in awhile. Well, maybe more then that.”

“Seat for two, enjoy!” The hostess announced. The restaurant went along with its name. It was dark except for some Christmas lights dangling around. “So you like it?” He asked. “Of course, it is beautiful.” I tied to look as meaningful as I said it but the incident earlier kept on popping into my head. What Tom was about to do to me, the fear in his eyed and to see that he fear in his eyes was from the sight of Vann. Vann isn’t that scary, he is very masculine but not too rough looking to scare you. “Everything is ok, right?” He asked worried. I looked up and his worried voice matched his face. “Just, you know, still shocked from earlier.” I am more then just shocked. “I am so sorry Eden. I should have never took you to that party. I felt something like that would happen and it did. Forgive me.” Vann looked depress now making me guilty. Whenever something happens to me I notice how sad he gets. So I need to be more careful for he won’t be saddened. “No V. It is not your fault. It could happen to any girl. That’s how most guys are. Like a bunch of dogs. Well, excluding you.” He grinned. “Thanks. But it doesn’t happen to any girl Eden. You are...beautiful. If you wore a T-shirt and sweats, you would still tempt guys. I should of not taken you there.”

“Beautiful…me?” I was stunned. “Yes. Look at yourself.” Before I could respond the waiter came. “What would you like to order to drink?” He asked. Vann looked at the menu. “Pepsi.” He requested. “And you…mi…miss.” He stuttered when he looked at me. “Sprite please.” I requested also. “Coming up!” He added. I looked back at V to see a huge smirk on his face. “What?” I asked confused. His smirked turned to a huge grin. “Nothing. I just proved a point.” He finally said.

“So…tell me about you.” He asked. About me…something that isn’t boring. “Okay, I am raised by my Dad. A single child. My mom left us when I was two years old. This is my first year of public school. So far it is good. I like hamburgers and Sprite. Mushrooms are my worst enemy. Ugh. They are so nasty. Along with pickles and tomatoes. And when I get into a good conversation, I can go on and on and on. Like right now. There is nothing else to say besides my life is pretty much boring before I started school. Well, that is it.” He laughed a bit. Probably on how I ramble on. “ Now V, tell some things about you.” I totally caught him off guard. “Uh…well I am not a single child. I have been raised by my brother and my mother passed away some time ago. Well, that is it.” He looked relieved when he finished. “Well V, you forgot to mention something.” He froze in his place when I said that. As if dreading on what I am going to say. “What has your life been like? Boring, fun, or normal? Tell me!” Again he looked relieved. “Well, definitely not normal. It has been pretty boring. Until I met you.” My face went red. I did not expect that. I shyly looked down and smiled. “Same here.” I responded. “Are you ready to order?’ The waiter came again and put our drinks in front of us. Oh! I totally forgot to look at the menu. “We’ll share a hamburger with no pickles or tomatoes. With fries also. Make sure you have no mushrooms. Thank you.” Vann ordered. The waiter left with our menus and our, um his order. “Wow. You got what I liked. I am so surprised. You really want to share a meal with me?" 

 “Why not?” He replied smoothly.

Everything went by so quickly. The food was great and the service was awesome. And Vann was a complete gentlemen. So we decided to end the night with a walk thru town.

“Did you enjoy your late night dinner?” He asked. “Yes V. It was very nice. Thank you for taking me.” He grinned. “Anytime. Did I tell you how nice you look?” I looked down and grinned. “Yeah V, I think. But thanks. You are not so bad yourself.” Actually he looks really hot if I can say so. With his plain white shirt and clean jeans. The leather jacket he is lending me made him look like a hot biker. We then stopped in the middle of towns square by the infamous statue of J.F.K. He looked down to me with his gentle eyes. Then he brushed my hair out of my face and tucked it behind my ear. His touch made me shiver with excitement. His gentleness made me want him to touch my face more. He stammered a bit when he moved his hand back to his side. Like he wanted to touch my face some more. His eyes were peircing mine as he examined my face.

“You have the most beautiful eyes I have ever seen." He continued with is adoring compliments. As he always does he looked intently into my eyes. Goosebumps were raising on my arm as he stared. My legs felt weak like I was about to collapse. My breath kept on stuttering. It was hard to breath. Again I had to turn away from his intensity. “Thank you.” I glanced back shyly like a little kid would do when an adult adores them. A grin was appearing on his perfectly chiseled face. I smirked back. Then turned away again blushing. Suddenly a hand was at the bottom of my chin. The hand directed my face towards Vann. The grin was still there as he held my face. It then turned serious. He leaned in towards me. My heart was pounding so hard. I had forced myself to look at his dark smoldering eyes. I felt my insides melting from the intensity. He opened his mouth a little, making mines gape open. I closed my eyes waiting for a kiss. A kiss by the one guy I ever spent time with, the one guy who seemed to care. His lips then went to my ear and he whispered, “Never hide your face away from me.” And then he let go of my face. What did he mean by that? And all that intensity to just say those words. And I thought I was going to be kissed. “Hey!” Vann said. So I looked back up. “What did I say? Don’t hide your face from me. “ And his smirk became a big grin. I giggled at his comment. Maybe, just maybe he likes me. He looked at his watch and his eyes became big. “Wow missy. It is pass your bedtime. I better get you home.” So he wrapped his arm around my waist again and lead me to his car. We were at least an hour and a half from my house. So I will get home by three thirty. As V got me into the passenger seat, I saw a shadow pass behind him. I gasped loudly in response and Vann turned around in a protective stance. Looking around to see what frightened me. I couldn’t see anything besides Vann in front of me. Then V’s stature became casual and started walking away from me and not looking back. I try to see what he was walking towards but the parking lot was too dark. Then I heard Vann laugh. What is he laughing at? He glanced back to me and gave me a wink. What is going on? “Vann. What is it?” I yelled. He turned back to me and smiled, “Chandler is here. He is trying to be sneaky.” He noticed me looking for him, so he moved out of the way. He was right. There Chandler stood with a plain look on his face. Vann started walking back towards me in the car and Chandler followed.

When Chandler walked under the street light I finally saw what he looked like. He had raggedy dirty blonde hair with green eyes and a beige skin tone. He was not masculine like V but was taller then him. Vann was then right in front of me. He lowered himself to face me. “Eden, me and Chandler are going to have a chat. Stay in here for me, okay.” I nodded my head.He smiled back and patted my head. He got up and shut the car door. He then walked in front of the car with Chandler but stood some feet away from it. I cannot read lips but I can understand expressions. Chandler looked upset and when he was talking he got angrier and angrier. Vann kept his arms crossed. At first he kept his face composed but after Chandler talked some more there was tension on his face. Not the intensity he has with me but a tick off intensity. Once in a while he would glance in my direction. After Chandler finished talking, Vann didn’t say anything. He kept on looking at the ground. Finally, he looked back to Chandler and said a few words. He then smiled and Chandler walked away. I saw Chandler walk to a car parked in the street. He got in the passenger side and the car drove off into the darkness. I looked back at Vann and he hasn’t moved an inch. His arms were still crossed and he was still looking down. I still saw the strain in his face. He then looked back at me in the car. He gave a wink and smiled. He started heading back to me. He got in and let out a deep sigh. I was nervous to ask him if he was okay. For some reason I feel like it is none of my business. That I shouldn’t get myself involved. But…I had to do something. He was sitting there, one hand on the wheel the other hand holding the keys while he stared off into space. “Vann you want me to drive?” I asked. He suddenly snapped out of his trance he was in. “No, I can drive.” He responded and started up the car.

We were quiet for twenty minutes at least. He stilled seemed to be in his own world. So I needed to say something, “Vann, is everything okay?” He looked at me and smiled. “Of course. Sorry if I seem out of it. There is nothing to worry about. Thanks for asking.” “V, you can talk to me anytime, ok.” I smiled to reassure him. He smiled again. “That is good to know. Same here Eden. Vent to me whenever. Your Dad is obviously very protective of you and I bet that can be stressing. So if you can’t take it anymore, just come to me.” He then grabbed my hand and squeezed it. My face felt like it was turning red. Thankfully it is dark out. I started thinking about the night and how wonderful and scary it was. Our midnight dinner that we had a “Midnight Drinks”. Getting to know each other. Then something clicked. He never said anything about his Dad. Is that what makes him so cautious when we talk? Okay, don’t be paranoid Eden. But I have to ask: “Vann. You never told me about your father.” He suddenly froze, his face went somewhat pale. And his expression was scared. Okay, that was stupid Eden. If he doesn’t say anything about him before then it’s a sensitive subject. “Forget about it.” I said to calm him down but he was still tense. He glanced to me and pursed his lips. He began, “My Father… is not with us anymore. He is…gone. He left us.” And like the Mustangs and Crows conversation, he dropped the subject. “Oh.” Was all I can say and probably was allowed to say. I was not going to push it any more. “You like music?” Vann asked in a happier tone. “Uh, yeah. You got any good CD’s?" I asked. “Check in the compartment in front of you.” He pointed it out to me. I opened it up and spotted right away my favorite band. “Black Eyed Peas! I love them!” He smiled at my excitement. I put in the CD and started moving to the beat. Vann still look a bit down, so I have to cheer him up. So I tried to dance wacky. He turned to me and cocked his eyebrow like I was insane but I kept on grooving. Suddenly he started to burst into laughter. It made me jump but I did it! I cheered him up! He was still laughing and it look like he was about to cry. I didn’t even think I was that funny. When we came to a stop sign, he wrapped his arm around me. He then leaned in and gave me a peck on my forehead. My heart stared pounding. He kissed my forehead! Oh my gosh! Wow…I am really dramatic. “Thank you Eden.” And he began driving again.

We finally got to my house. He parked at the same corner as before. V got out to open my door. “I really hoped you enjoyed yourself.” V began, “We should do that again, except next time lets do it on a weekend.” “Yeah V, I had an awesome time. And yeah, we should do that again. Excluding the drama.” He smirked. “Yeah, excluding the drama.” He wrapped his arm around me and guided me toward the back of my house. “Well I guess I will see you tomorrow.” I said. “Yeah.” Vann replied. “Just one problem Eden. You left your window open right?”         

“Uh, yes.”

“Well how are you going to get up there?” He Asked. He was right, how am I going to get to my room. V started looking around, trying to find some way to get me up there. He was pacing around and then he stopped. He turned to me and asked, “Can you climb?”

“Yeah. I always climbed that tree there when I was young…er…Hey! I can climb the tree to get to my room!” V nodded his head. “Yep. Great minds do think alike. I will stand underneath you in case you fall, I can catch you.” So I walked to the tree and began climbing…in heels. I finally got to the branch that led to my window. I started climbing towards it and…I made it! I did not stumble at all. “Good job!” V whispered loudly. “Thank you, thank you very much.” I whispered in a sort of Elvis voice. “See you tomorrow!” I whispered while getting through my window. “Good night princess!” He whispered back. And that was the end of not a night but the night of my life.

 

 

 

 

4. A Change

 

 

I barely got any sleep. I felt like a zombie coming to school. Because of how dead I felt, I got to school when the first bell rang and just made it to class when the final bell ranged. I had my head down coming into Mr. Buckley’s class. So I didn’t see if V was in the same state as I. I took my seat and laid my head down. By the groans I hear, people must still be having a hangover.

“Class, time to take attendance!” Mr. Buckley announced as always. He went thru the list with everyone saying “Here” in a groaning voice. When he came to me I sounded no different then the rest. “Vann Field!” He yelled. I awaited his soothing voice. No response. “Mr. Field?” Still no response. “Absent.” He ends with.

I looked up to see if he really wasn’t here. I look to where he normally sits and he wasn’t there. I look around the room. Still no V. This is so not fair. Today was the day he would tell me what type of “date” we had. I should of stayed home. “Looking for Vann?” Carlie asks. I look to her. It was almost like déjà vu. “No.” I replied. “Are you sure? You look a bit disappointed.” She continued. I just sighed. “So do you like him? I totally want to know. I mean we are friends. I have to know.”

“Carlie, can you please stay out of my business.” Her mouth dropped, she obviously had no one talk to her that way. “What did you say?” She was shocked. “Mind…your own…business. Okay? I do not need your two sense on things. I never asked for it neither did I ask to be your friend.” A few people heard me and turned around to see the commotion. Her mouth was stilling gapping. She shook her head as if to bring her back to reality. “No one, I mean no one has ever talked to me that way.” She was too stunned to continue. “Well, there is always a first for everything.” I replied. And so she stayed quiet for the rest class. As class came to an end, Carlie was still in shock phase. And as I left the room, she still stayed in her seat. Well, this seems to be the beginning of another boring day. I was hoping to be able to see and hang out with him. Man, I always put my hopes high and every time I do that it comes crashing down. I was continued heading to my next class, when I heard a roaring sound. I look around me, wondering where that sound came from. I decided to continue walking when I heard the sound again. It almost sounded like a roaring lion, like…Vann’s Mustang. I turned around and started heading to the parking lot.

 

As I turned the corner of the main office, I see the one thing that I was hoping to see. There V stood, leaning on his mustang, arms crossed with a huge grin on his face. “Vann Field! Where were you?” I asked. He look down and glance back to me with a mischievous look on his face. I walked further towards him and stopped.

“Well?” I asked. His look was still the same. “I was going to play hooky. You know, take the day off of school. But as I thought about it, I realized it would have been no fun without you. So I came here to pick you up.” He had a wicked smile on his face. Like his plan was genius. “So we both take the day off?” He nodded his head to me. “Miss school?” He nodded his head again. “Are you crazy?” His smile became bigger. “Just maybe.” He replied. “And my car?” I asked. Lets see how this will fit in his plan. “When school is over, we will come and I will drop you off. Easy, right?” Oh. He was right. “We have exams next week!” I was trying to make more excuses not to skip. “We’ll cram.” He seemed to have an answer to everything. But what about this, “And what if we get caught?” He cocked his head to me. Realizing that I was trying to find a way out of it. He narrowed his eyes.

“You are suppose to be trusting me, right?” He made a point. It was useless. Whatever excuse I thought, he knew a way out of. Maybe if I ran back to campus he won’t be able to make me skip. “And don’t think about running.” He interrupted my thoughts. “Because I’ll outrun you.” My mouth dropped. How did he? “Eden. I am starting to know you enough, to be able to know what you are planning.” He answered my question again. Ugh! I give up. “Fine. This one day. Okay!” So I started to head to his car. He moved to the front of it to meet me. I stopped to face him. I tried to give him an annoyed look but it probably look like a defeated one. He grabbed my textbooks out of my arms. He then looked at my face finally. “You look like a mess.” He commented. “Thanks to you.” I answered back. He grinned. “You’re a cute mess.” He added. I cocked my head in a disbelieving response. I rolled my eyes since I had no come back. So I smiled. “Well you look like a nice non-mess.” He grinned some more. “I am use to nights like those. Not the partying but staying up all night. It is hard for me to sleep sometimes. My life can be a bit hectic. But for some reason I was able to sleep those four hours I had. Maybe because of you. You seem to have an effect on me.”

I started blushing. “And I love it when you blush.” He finally commented. I turned even more red.

“Can we go before we get caught.” I suggested before my face turns into a cherry. “Alright.”

And we headed to the passenger side, he opened the door and helped me in. He got in the driver’s seat and he put the books in the back. “Ready?” He asked. I nodded my head. He started the car and we left school. As we were heading out he asks me, “So what do you want to do princess?”

“I thought you knew what you wanted to do?” I asked. He looked at me and thought about it. “Well yeah but this is going to be your day. I am willing to do whatever you want to do.” Hmmm, whatever I want to do… “You know Lake Bass?” I asked. He looked surprised. “Yeah.” He answered. “Well,…ever since I was little I wanted to swim there. But my Dad wouldn’t let me. It is like a dream of mine to go there. It sounds very silly, I know. But can we go there?” He smiled and peered to me. “It is not silly. Yeah, lets go there. You know we don’t have time to get swimsuits. Is that okay with you?” I contemplated it. “Well underwear will do.” And he laugh and nodded his head.

It took about fifteen minutes to get to Lake Bass. No one really goes here anymore since they’ve opened some new stores in town. It is somewhat crowded during summer I hear but when we got here, it was empty. It was beautiful just as I remembered it. The trees surrounding the lake. The Sleeping willows leaning over the water as if they were admiring their reflection. The Greek like stone benches made you feel like your were in a fairy tell with the vines hugging around them. And the lake, glittering with its majestic power. It was calm and looked like a thousand stars are dancing upon it though it was still day.

 

V parked by a giant oak tree and opened the door for me to let me out. “Lets go.” And he lead me to the dock. There it had a diving platform with some ducks resting near it. “Do you know how to swim?” He asked while taking off his shirt. I couldn’t answer. I was mesmerized by his ripped stomach. He has a six pack with those lines that all girls adore. “Eden?” I snapped out of my state of “He is hot” shock. “Oh, um. Not really. The last time I swam was when I was six but I wore floaties.” I admitted. “Well then, if we decide to go into the deep side, I make sure to carry you. But until then, stay close to me. I don‘t want lose you now.” I took a deep breath, “Ok.” I agreed. He then took his socks and shoes off.

Right when he was about to take his pants off I turned around. I heard a chuckle. “If you prefer for me to leave my jeans on, by all means tell me.” So I nodded my head… I then heard a splash so I turned around. There he was swimming around by the dock. “Are you coming in or not?” He asked. “Yes, I am.” I replied. “Turn around.” I finished. And he did. I took off my socks and shoes. And then my shirt and finally my jeans. Thank goodness I decided to wear my boy shorts today. I then went to the ladder that lead to the water and slowly stepped down. I made two steps perfectly fine. I just had a few more to go. As I took the next step I felt something gooey and screamed. I lost my balanced and I was about to hit the water hard. As I closed my eyes for the impact, I felt something softer and warmer instead when I fell. I opened my eyes to see Vann’s bewildered face. I was in his arms all safe and he held me like he was cradling a baby. “Are you a klutz?” He asked.

“No. I felt some thing gooey, that’s all.” He laughed. “There is always something gooey in lakes, it is called algae.” I gave a disgusted look. Ugh! I wish I knew that. He started laughing I guess because of my disgusted and shocked face. I Looked to him, “Nasty.” I said. He smiled and gave me a big kiss on the forehead. I smiled and acted like the kiss was gross by wiping it off my head. “Hey!” He reacted. He then kissed me again in the same place. “Take that!” He began to act like he won. I wiped it off again and stuck my tongue out. “Hmmm, a feisty one you are!” And so he kissed my cheek. I giggled and wiped it off. “Ha-ha.” I said in a fun and mean way. He narrowed his eyes to me in disbelieve. He cradle me tighter in his arms for I won’t be able to move my hands. “Hey!” I exclaimed. He then looked into my eyes with a canny smile. He began caressing my face. I started to blush and in response to that he began holding my cheeks. He got closer to me and pressed his lips on my nose gently. I turned even more redder and it seemed he was turning red him self. So I hid my face in the nape of his neck. He then gave me a tight squeeze. I kept my head there for awhile, hoping my blush would go away soon. I then look up to him finally to see that he was staring back with his caring eyes. The eyes I saw one time before. When we were by the statue. He put me down in the water.

I felt the gooey stuff again but I ignored it. I had V with me and if anything would scare me, I know he will be there. “Cute pink underwear!” He blurts out. He just ruined my moment. So I splash him in the face with the nasty water to teach him a lesson. “No you didn’t!” And so he splashes me back. In his splash it sent weed on my face. I looked at V, who had bulged eyes and his mouth was dropped. He then busted into laughter. I had a ticked off face on for he can at least feel bad. It didn’t work. He was still laughing so I took the weed and threw it straight at his face. His face then turned serious. So I started running (if that is possible in water) back to the dock. As I reached the dock something grabbed my leg. “Alligator!” I screamed. I turned to see V holding my leg while trying to hold back laughter. “Alligator?” He asks. I tried to wiggle my leg loose. “Eden, you know there isn’t alligators in this town, neither in this state, or the states surrounding us.”

 

“Oh.” I replied. He then let go of my leg. “But there is piranhas.” He added. And I started to scream. I then grabbed the ladder and started climbing to the dock. I finally made it and sat myself down to catch my breath. “I wish you have told me that V.” When I looked at him a grin was widening more and more. I realized it was just a joke. “You jerk!” And I started to storm off. I grabbed my clothes and started heading back to the park. “Wait! Wait!” V yelled. I turned to him with annoyance on my face. “I am sorry Eden. I..I think it is funny when you freak out like that. Not to mention adorable.” I stared at him with disbelieving eyes. “I will never forgive you.” I replied.

“I am sorry Eden.” He apologized some more. I stared at him deeply and then smiled. He gave me a confused face. “Just kidding.” I wanted him to feel bad and it worked. “What?” He said. I started giggling at his shocked face. “Some taste of your own medicine.” I replied. He shook his head. “You really shouldn’t of done that.” He threatened. “What are you going to do about it?” I asked, taunting him. He began giving me a impish look. I was about to run when he then lifted me up and threw me over his shoulders. I started screaming as he ran to the diving end and jumped in. As we reached the surface he was still holding on to me. “Take me back to the shallow!” I screamed. He chuckled. “As you wish princess.” And so I held on to his back as he swam to the shallow area. I then rested my head on his shoulder and gave him a tight squeeze myself. Right then I remembered something. The whole purpose of today, the reason why I came to school. “So V. Answer me, from last night what type of “date” did we have?” When we got to the shallows, I let go to look at him. His face was looking away while he was thinking. So I grabbed his face and turned it to me. “Hey! ‘What did I say? Don’t turn your face away from me. I like looking at it.’” He smiled and took my hands off his face. He then placed his hands around my face and looked sincerely into my eyes. I looked back with a sort innocence look in mines, in order to coerce him gently to tell me. I couldn’t keep that look for long, my face then became mesmerized again by his mysterious eyes. I then felt something gentle on my lips. Not realizing it, his lips were pressing against mines. If I didn’t have my eyes open I wouldn’t have known because of its softness. I had no time to react and when I was able to comprehend what really happened, it was over. He looked at me, his hands on my shoulders. “Does that answer your question?” I was still a little stunned. So I just nodded my head in response. He smiled and began rubbing my cheek. I then grabbed his hand and held it there. I smiled while my cheeks were becoming a rosy color. “Want to go dry off?” He asked. “Uh, yeah.” I replied. He then held my hand and had me follow him back to the dock.

 

We laid on the dock drying up, with me snuggling myself under his arm and laying my head again in the nape of his neck. He leaned his head on mines. He was massaging my arm as well. Time must have flown by, who knew what time it was. It didn’t matter, we were together and we were relaxing. Him holding me while I his myself by him. But at some point it had to end. I got up and put on my shirt since I already put on my jeans. “We should head back. Soon school should be ending.” As I stood up he grabbed my arm and pulled me down to him. “5 minutes, please.” He begged me. “No. We need to go!” I ordered. So I got up and grabbed his shirt and threw it at him. “Come one!” I yelled and I started running to the car. He finally got up and started to put on his shirt and shoes. I got in the passenger seat and waited. I looked at the cup holder and saw his phone flashing. I picked it up and saw he had a text messages by Chandler. So I open it up to see what it said. I really shouldn’t be doing this but I am a little curious. But before I read it I decided to look to see where V was at. There he was trying to put his shirt and shoes without much progress. I looked back down to the phone and it read:

 

11:00 AM August 26^th

“There is not much time. R you in or out?

 And if u r in, u hav to dump that grl

 u were with last night. She can’t b involved.

By the way who is she?”

****Chandler****

 

“In”? What is this all about? And he has to dump me if he is in? Okay, it is none of my business. Put the phone down Eden. As I did V was finally starting to head to the car. He got in and smiled to me. “Hmmm, Two O’ Clock. Not bad. Okay a hour is left till school is out. I don’t know why you were rushing but you want to go pick some lunch. We can go thru the drive thru at Burger King?”

“Yeah, that sounds good! I am starving.” He smiled. “We’ve been swimming and having fun, you got to be hungry.” And after he said that my stomach made a loud roar in agreement. V started laughing hysterically along with me. He then patted my belly and leaned near it: “Don’t worry, we’ll feed you.” He whispered to my stomach. And off we went. But I just couldn’t get it off my mind on what I read in the text.

 

As I finished my Whopper Jr. and he finished his big Whopper, we began heading back to West Side. “So did you really enjoy yourself?” He asked for like the fifth time. “Of course! You make everything fun. Don’t worry about boring me.” I told to reassure him. He smiled and grabbed my hand to hold it. I was still not use to this. It was yesterday, literally, when we finally started to get to know each other. And now this, him holding my hand and kissing me at the lake. It wasn’t a major kiss. If anyone was there it could be also mistaken for a guy friend kissing his friend who is a chick. Anyway, things have been going pretty fast. But it is a good thing that I trust him. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t even let him take me places. But there is something about him that can make a complete stranger trust him. He has this way about him. The way he talks, it is so smooth and relaxed. The way he walks and moves is not like how the guys are these days. It has class. And his manners, he is a complete gentlemen. I just don’t get why he has friends who are sloppy and mean looking. Hey like the saying goes, “Opposites attract”. Me and him are kind of like opposites. I mean our upbringing is somewhat different, well more then somewhat. I do have more money then him. Which isn’t a big difference and it’s not like it matters. Also, his friends aren’t people I would want to be around all the time. They are a bit scary. He also seems more outgoing then me. And the way we look. I mean I am not the typical American girl or the so called girls next door. I am curvy and tan with these bright blue eyes of mine. And he his like a model. But not too perfect. Thinking about, we are a good match. As I was examining what Vann looks like, I was heading to look at his face. As I did I realize he was staring. I turned away when I met his eyes. “Something on your mind?” He asked. “No.” I replied. “You were looking,…serious. I was just wondering.“ He added. “No, I am good. I was thinking about how great of a person you are.” I somewhat had to admit. He smiled. “You’re not so bad yourself princess.” He complimented. I smiled. “Thank you.” He grinned and began replying: “Your welcome. You are very sweet and very funny as well. You make everything adorable.” He seemed to be admitting. I started becoming bashful when he said that.

And for no apparent reason the car stopped. I looked around and realized that we were in the school parking lot. “We are here.” He announced. I got out of the car along with him. “Thanks V. I really needed this day off from school.” He started to head over to me. He stopped right in front of me and stared at me with his caringly eyes. “I am always, I mean always here for you.”

When he said those words, it almost made me want to cry. I mean to know how much he cares for me. Not realizing it a tear did come out. It was starting to rolled down my cheek till V leaned in and kissed it away. I then held that cheek with his hand compassionately. I felt like I was about to ball but I had to keep my composure. “Bye V.” I finally said. I then stood on my tippy toes and gave him a peck on his cheek. I got back down and he started to turn red. I started to walk to my car as I noticed that the after school announcements came on. As I got in I finally heard, “Goodbye my princess.”

As I got to my house, I saw a Brinks truck in front of it. I parked in the driveway and got out to see what is up. Probably my dad is upping the security in the house. As I walked to the house I saw my Dad come out. “Hey honey!” He yelled. I started to walk more to him. “What is going on?” I asked. “Well, I have been thinking about what you have said to me last night. And maybe I am a bit paranoid. I should be more trusting of you, your friends, and the people surrounding me. Well not all the people. But I am taking out the security in our house and I am letting you have more freedom. I think you are old enough. For now on you can stay out till Eleven O’ Clock. You can hang out with your friends and you are of course, allowed to go places without me. Does that sound good to you?” I felt my mouth dropped almost to the floor. And the out of no where a huge scream came out of me. My Dad’s eyes pop and he smiled at my excitement. I dropped to my knees and continued screaming.

“ ‘Free at last, free at last. Thank god all mighty I am free at last’ “ I yelled. My dad cocked his heading like I was crazy. I then got up and jumped on him to give him a big hug. “Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you. I love you Dad and I will make sure I will keep to the curfew and everything.”

“Will you make sure not to tell people who’s daughter you are. I am still worried about that you know. The wrong people knowing and you getting hurt.” I nodded my head and smile. “Dad.” I began, “You are awesome!” And I squealed some more. “Oh one more thing Eden.” I look at him anticipating good or bad news. “I decided to buy you a cell phone. And don’t worry I won’t check who you are calling and who is calling you.”

I then screamed even louder. He took out of his pocket a flip phone. “No way!” I yelled. It was red, my favorite color. I gave him another big hug. “I love you dad.” I calmly said. He gave me a big kiss on my head. “I love you honey.” And so I gave him a peck on the cheek and ran to my room.

I fell on my bed and started admiring my new phone. I leaned over to grabbed my back pack and went thru it to find a specific piece of paper. I found it. And on the paper it had the number of Vann. I began putting him into my contacts and decided to call him. With every ring my anticipation got bigger and bigger.

 

“Are you prank calling me? Wait, how are you able to call me?” He asked confused. “I came home to a huge surprise. My dad has token out the security in our house. I am able to go places now without him, with friends. And my curfew is till Eleven. And to add to that, he got me a cell phone. He promised to stay out of my business.”“Are you serious? That is awesome. So we can do something after school tomorrow?” He asked excited. “Yeah. And maybe you can meet my dad.” He was quiet for awhile. “I think we should wait on that. We don’t want to give your dad a heart attack now, do we?” He suggested. “Yeah, you’re right.” I agreed. “Well I will talk to you tomorrow.” I had a lot of stuff to study about and just from the one class I went to , I had a lot of homework to do. “Okay sweetie. I will see you soon.” He said a little disappointed. “Bye V.” And I hung up. I just can’t believe what has happened today.

There are so many changes in my life. I now have freedom, I have a cell phone now, and my Dad is somewhat becoming less paranoid. I also have V in my life. He has made me more outgoing, just a bit and he has let me do things I would never would have done before. This school year is off to a good start and I have V who is making it awesome. Never in a million years would I imagine this happening to me but I believe now change does happen. That Eden Nicole Dale’s life can have a change. So I have a very new view on things. I love everything now. I love my Dad, I love my phone, I love my freedom, I love my non-secured house, I love my new self and finally…. I think…. I am in love with Vann. Every time I am with him my heart pounds. And I know that this is not a fickle like I felt for my Dad’s assistant. I was thirteen then and the guy was at my house a lot. But I knew then it wasn’t love at all. With V, I think it is love, no, I know it is love. He is everything that I would dream about. I melt every time I am with him. I get excited when I see him. And I never thought I would be able to love anyone because of how shelter I am but now I am able to love. An he is the one. I know I am young and I really don’t know how he feels about me. But I have this feeling that he does feel the same. And that is the best part out of everything.

This is definitely a change.

 

 

 

5. The only difference between a lie and the truth

 

I spent the rest of the afternoon that day doing my homework and studying for the exams. My Dad was busy downstairs doing some Legal stuff. I found out an hour ago that my Dad took out the Parental Block on my computer, so I have full access to chat with Monica and maybe chat with V when I get his Email and IM. And as he promised with my phone, he won’t spy or check on what I am doing. Which is a good thing. On days like these were my Dad is too busy to make dinner or order dinner, I make dinner for us. I decided to make meatloaf with mashed potatoes. And as a thank you gift, I will make my Dad his favorite dessert. Custard. During the process of cooking I couldn’t get V off my mind. When I was doing a essay about Shakespeare, I realized I wrote Vann’s name ten times in it instead of Romeo. I can’t get off my mind the day we spent by the lake but mostly the text I read. For whatever he is about to do, I can’t be involved. But I don’t want to be involved. Not at all! I want to so badly ask what is up but again I got this feeling that I shouldn’t ask at all. As I was setting the plates, Monday night flashed into my mind. With Tom being scared of V and the other two. It can’t be because there were two more against him. Not at all. Because that is not terrifying, not one bit. And Chandler talking to V all ticked off and stuff. Maybe what he was mad about last night involves with what was said in the text I read. Maybe V doesn’t want to be “in” or something like that. Eden! Stop speculating, it is none of your business. Better call my Dad for dinner. “Dad! Dinner time!”

My Dad ate two servings of Potatoes, three servings of Meatloaf, and ate half of the bowl of custard. I just wonder where it all goes. My dad is thin and toned. Maybe having a small gym in the guest house is worth it. I cleared the table and put the dishes in the washer. As I left to take a shower, my Dad stayed in his seat rubbing his belly and resting. I made sure my shower was quick so I can get back to studying.

I was still reviewing the story of Romeo and Juliet when my Dad came in and kissed me goodnight. He had major business tomorrow and had to get as much sleep as possible. I continued on my studying of Romeo and Juliet. Admiring there romance and the words they use to describe each other. I always loved there story ever since I was a kid. I actually memorized there lines. I went to the guest bedroom near my room and went to the balcony it has. I went out and began leaning on the rails admiring the bright moon and thinking about Vann.

“Ay me.” One of the lines Juliet says when she was thinking of Romeo. I sighed, I miss Vann so much. “Ay me.” I repeated again.

“She speaks!” A voice whispered from below. The voice was very recognizable. “Vann?” I ask.

“ ‘Oh, speak again, bright angel! For thou art as glorious to this night.’” V was quoting a line from Romeo. So I went along: “Oh Vann, Oh Vann! Wherefore art thou Vann? Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love,

And I'll no longer be a Dale.” I smiled.

“But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the east and Eden is the sun.

Arise, fair sun, and kill the envious moon. Who is already sick and pale with grief.”

I didn’t reply. “Shall I hear more or shall I speak at this?” He continued. I decided to reply: “'Tis but thy name that is my enemy; Thou art thyself, though not a Field.

What's Field? It is nor hand, nor foot, nor arm, nor face, nor any other part

belonging to a man.” I went to turn the light on for the yard by the door. I came back to see V there with a smile. “Would you like to tell what is that part belonging to a man?”

He began to talk normal again. I laughed. “Thou should know.” I replied. He laughed quietly.

“May I come up my sweet princess?” He asked. “Well…okay. Can you climb the tree. I’ll go open my window.”

“Ok.” He agreed. I then turned the yard light off and rushed to my room. I open my drapes to see V there waiting. I opened my window and he came in. I turned on the desk light on for we can at least see each other. He was wearing a black shirt with ripped jeans. I looked to his face. He was smiling. “What?” I asked confused. “I like what you are wearing.” I look to see what I was wearing. I had on my red silk dress with the lace from Victoria’s Secret that my Mom sent last year. My Dad had a fit about. My mom sends the weirdest stuff. “Should I change?”

“No!” He quickly responded. I smiled. Then some questions popped in my head. “I got to ask you. How do know all the lines from Romeo?” He smiled and laughed. “When I was ten I got the role of Romeo for the school play. The balcony scene was always my favorite.” I giggled. “You were Romeo?” He nodded his head. “Who was your Juliet?” I asked. His face turned to this funny look. “You are going to think this is hilarious. Carlie was Juliet.” My mouth dropped to the floor. “Carlie?”

He smiled. I shook my head for I could get back on track. “Okay. One more thing, why are you here?” He turned and began walking around my room. “I needed to see you.” He began admitting. “I just couldn’t wait till tomorrow.” He the sat himself down on my desk chair. He smiled. “You look so beautiful right now.” He seem to be confessing to me tonight. “I don’t always look beautiful?” I asked. “You look beautiful every second of every day.” I sat on my bed. “So this is why you are here? To admire me?” He began looking around the room. “That and I really wanted to see your bedroom.” He looked back to me. “I like it a lot. Very…you?”

“How is it me?” He smirked. “You are very unique, like your room. You have a round bed. That is very unique.” I grinned. “Really?” He looked around some more. “You do have a very big room don’t you. Bigger then my living room.” I looked at him confused. So he is here because he misses me and to admire me and my room. He then got up and sat right next to me. He wrapped his arm around me. “Also, we need to talk.” Oh no! I really hope it is not something dealing with the text. Is he going to leave me because of it? “I want to ask you.” I gulped, I was anticipating the worse.

“At the lake when you asked me on what type of date we had, you remember?” I nodded my head. How can I forget. That was when he… “I kissed you in response, on your lips.” I nodded my head.

“Did you feel anything? Did you like it or was I to fast? Am I going to fast? I think what I am trying to say is…”

He stopped. His face was turning red. He then looked down and he seemed worried. I put my hand on his lap. I lifted up his face with my other hand. I looked deeply into his eyes. I started to trace the outline of his jaw. Then I began to trace the structure of his cheek. I looked again at his eyes. He still looked worried and then his eyes became sincere. He took his free hand and he began to trace the lines of my lips. His simple touch sent shudders down my spine. He then grasped my chin and brought my face closer to his. His eyes then drifted to my lips. He stared at them, like questioning something. He then looked back to my eyes. He looked at them as if he was searching for something. A answer to a question. I stared back with curiosity and with my own sincerity. “V…” I whispered softly. His look became intense. He then pressed his lips on mines. I had no time to catch my breath. He was kissing me. I didn’t respond at first. I was there like a dummy doll. I then felt the need to react. I began to kiss him back fiercely. He then pulled back for a bit to catch his breath. “I love you.” He whispered in the process. I pulled back in shock. I looked at him. I couldn’t believe it. “You….love…me?” He nodded his head. “I wanted to know if you feel the same.” Oh my goodness! I cannot believe this is happening. Earlier I was admitting to myself that I love him. “Vann, I feel the same. It is so ironic. Today I was thinking about the way I feel about you. And to know you feel the same as I. I love you V.” He smiled. I thought he was about to cry but he composed himself. He got up and started to head to my window. “Where are you going?” I asked. I started to follow him. “Going home. I came here to hear those three words from you. Now I can sleep in peace.” He got out and turned back to me. I leaned out the window to look at him. “Will I see you tomorrow?” He smiled. “Of course princess.” He then held my face and kissed my lips softly. “Goodnight Eden.” He began to climb down. “Wait.” I begged. He stopped and looked back to me. “ “Three words, dear V, and goodnight indeed. If thy bent of love be honorable,’” I began using Juliet’s word’s again. “You will pick me up for school tomorrow.”

“Your Father?” He asked. “He’ll be gone by then.” I replied. He smiled. “ “A thousand times goodnight.’” The final words Juliet said to her Romeo went he left her that faithful night.

“ ‘A thousand times the worse, to want thy light. Love goes toward love, as schoolboys from their books. But love from love, toward school with heavy looks.’” Vann replied with Romeo’s words.

He smiled some more. “ ‘Sleep dwell upon thine eyes, peace in thy breast! Would I were sleep and peace, so sweet to rest! Hence will I to my ghostly father's cell, his help to crave, and my dear hap to tell.’” He finished. “Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow.” I finished.

He finally disappeared into the darkness. I close my window and laid on my bed. “He loves me.” I whispered to myself. So I closed my eyes and fell asleep in peace.

 

I was rushing around, getting my self ready. My Dad left an hour ago and V should be here at any moment. I just can’t find my sandals. Oh! They are under my desk. I ran down the stairs and waited for V in my living room. As I was about to sit down I heard two knocks on the front door. I ran to it and opened it for the man of my dreams. There he stood with a smile on his face. He wore a American Eagle shirt and dark jeans. “Good morning Princess.” I shut the door and turned to give him a big hug. As he wrapped his arms around me, I began kissing his cheek relentlessly. He then turned his face for I can kiss his lips relentlessly as well. I let go and he lead me to his Mustang. We started to head to school which made me wonder how people would react when they see us together. He held my hand the whole time and every time we stopped, he would kiss my hand. As we got closer to school, the more quiet he was. When we entered the parking lot, we had fifteen minutes to spare. As he shut off the engine he turned to me. “Eden, can I tell you something.” I nodded my head. He smiled nervously. “Is everything alright?” I was starting to get worried by the way he was acting. “I just need to tell you something truthful.”

“Okay.” He grasped both of my hands together. “ You’ve asked about my Father before and I said that he left us. Well, my father, never left us really. This is something I am scared to tell you. I don’t like lying but I don’t like the truth. See the only difference between a lie and the truth is nothing. Both of them is something you don’t want to hear. But…my father is in jail. He has been in jail since I was thirteen. I thought if I told you right away, that would give you a good reason to not trust me. Promise me you’ll keep this to yourself.”

I nodded my head but I had to ask one thing, “What did he do?” He looked at me with dreading eyes. “Do you want a lie or the truth?” He replied and he dropped the whole thing. So I dropped the subject as well. We began walking to class. At first I was walking with my arms crossed. Then V came and wrapped his arm around me. So I loosened up and held his hand.

As the day came to an end everyone, except for Carlie, was excited about us as an item. Ryan was the most excited. I even talked to Katy today. She isn’t as bad as I thought. I found out that she really looks up to me and she knew Vann and I was perfect for each other. Luke didn’t seem so happy but then again he never seems to be happy. Lunch was fun because everyone was awing every time we fed each other our lunch. Before we got to the parking lot, I already beg him to drive his car. He finally agreed after I kissed him relentlessly like this morning.

“Are you a good driver?” He asked before handing over his keys. “Of course!” I snatched it out of his hands. I revved up the car and starting driving. With every turn I took the car would squeal loudly. It took half the time to get to home then it took me to get to school. As I cut off the engine I turned to V. He wad holding on to the seat with all his life though the car was off. “Are you okay?” I asked. He turned to me slowly. “I will never, ever let you drive me again.” I began laughing.

We got out and I ran to give him a hug. “Will you surprise me tonight or will I see you tomorrow?”

He seemed to ponder about it. “Don’t get your hopes high princess. I got a lot of makeup work.” I nodded my head. “Goodbye V.” And he kissed me on my forehead. I began to skip to my front door. I turned to wave and blow a kiss to him. He acted like he caught it and put it on his lips.

As I got in my house I squealed about how my day went. It was one of the best days ever.

But the shocker I got this morning was still stinging in the back of my head. Well, like he said

“The only difference between a lie and the truth is nothing. Both of them is something you don’t want to hear.” But I rather have the truth then a lie. I want to know what has happened in his life that I should know.

That is the only difference.

 

 

6. PART B

Dad, I think their are skeletons in the closet

 

When someone has a secret that no one can know, we all would say they have skeletons in their closet, right? It has been a little over month since the day he told me his father was in jail. Since then I have been getting to know V thru texts, IM, and the nights when he comes to wish me goodnight. We would ask each other questions about how was life growing up or so on. Sometimes I would ask why his mom passed away. He would just freeze and not say anything or move on to a new subject. I have this feeling that V has some skeletons in his closet. And I am going to get to the bottom of it. Tomorrow my father will be gone for the weekend for some business. It is going to be a three day weekend because of labor day so maybe one of the days I can spend it with V and talk some more. Today was Friday. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are the days my dad heads to his office early and on those days V picks me up for school, like today. But I e-mailed him late last night that I wouldn’t be able to go to school. I have other stuff that I need to take care of. I hope he got it though. It was pretty late. It was because I couldn’t sleep at all, I kept on thinking about V and his father. So I decided to write him to cancel picking me up, all I said was I was hormonal today.

Because today I decided to go to the public library, to go through the public records to see what his father did to get himself in jail or maybe the death certificate of his mom. I know this is a bit nosy but I am dating a guy who’s father is in jail! I need to know this or I may say the wrong thing that will get V mad or hurt.

So I left at seven and began heading out of town. During the process of getting there I can’t help but think of V again. The past month has been great and we have found out that our birthdays are both during the summer. He is May 17^th while I am June 3^rd. He is one year older then me though because he miss the opportunity to go to kindergarten, so that is why he is in the same grade as I.

I found out that his heritage is part Greek, part Brazilian, and part Scottish. Something that I would of never guessed. His great grandfather was from Greece and married a Brazilian woman.

His grandmother is Scottish along with his mom. All those mixes made one heck of a hot guy.

Well, that is beside the point. I should text Katy. I promised to help her in math during study hall, so we need to move it to another day. I began rummaging through my purse and just figured out that I left my phone at home. Crap, well it is too late now. I have thirty more minutes to go.

I hope V doesn’t try texting me. I always feel bad when I don’t respond to his texts, maybe it’s just a habit now.

I just really hope I find something about V’s parents. I really want to know him and since he is not telling a thing, he has left me no choice.

As I got into the ancient looking library, I began heading to the older woman behind the desk.

“Can you tell me where towns public records are.” She gave me a weird look and pointed to the back by the computers. “Thank you.” So I started to head to the back. I didn’t see anything until I looked at the computer that said, “Public Records.”

I went to the search area and decided to look up his mother first. He told me her name was Rose. So I Put, “Rose Field.” Under the name category.

Her name appeared right away. I clicked and the information on her came up. The day she was born, when she became an American citizen and so on. I finally came to her cause death.

My mouth dropped. No. That can’t be. It says the cause of death is…homicide. She was killed two years ago! And she was murdered? Why didn’t V tell me this? This is major! This is something you don’t leave out when you are dating someone. Why was she killed? How was she killed? I clicked back and began looking up the towns newspaper. I put in woman murdered. At least a hundred murders popped that dealt with women. I decided to shorten the search by putting in the date of the murder. I scrolled down some more. “Murder of Mrs. Field.” Appeared in front of me I clicked it and began reading:

 

 "Woman found dead at home!"

 

“Rose Michelle Field, was found dead in her home yesterday. The apparent cause was a gunshot wound. She was shot three times and died from loss of blood. By the time the police came to the home she was already deceased. Mrs. Field was mother to three children. Most recently one of her children went missing. Thirteen year-old Tonya Rose Field, detectives are still looking into the disappearance of the missing girl and believe the murder and kidnapping are related. The only suspect they have for the murder and kidnapping is the husband and father of the children.

Jason Field is now in custody. They believe it could also be gang related.

He will be interrogated to see where was is whereabouts during the murder…..”

 

….What? How come I’ve never heard of this? V has a younger sister? His father the…suspect.

I started to look up the case for the murder or at least any information that can tell me what happens next. My eyes landed on three words that said it all:

 

 "Convicted of murder!"

 

 

“Jason Field has been convicted of the murder of Rose Field, his wife. The D.A was the one responsible for setting the trial and winning the case against Mr. Field…..”

 

My father was involved in the case? I do remember two years ago him being busy with a huge case but he never told me anything about it. I would hear my father and his team say its gang related or he is guilty, things like that. I can’t believe that just in one search, it unraveled the whole mystery of V. But there are still some missing pieces. Things that don’t add up at all. The gang issue. I hear my father say it and kids at school say it and now this article. What does it mean by gang related? I have never heard of gangs in this town terrorizing people. And how do gangs relate to his father and most importantly to V. “Is everything okay?” I jumped. I wasn’t expecting anyone behind me. I turned and it was the same old lady at the front. “I think I am good.” I responded but I thought about it again. “Wait. Can I ask you something?” She nodded her head.

“In town has their ever been gang problems or anything like that?” She looked at me strangely and smiled. “Why yes. Some years back we had major problems but it is not so bad now. It was pretty rough. At times you’ll be scared to come out of your own house and other times it was just peaceful. Well, let me know if you need anything else.”

“Thank you.” And she left. I clicked out of everything and began heading out of the library but before that I went back and looked for a book about gangs or organizations. I found a good book that talked about a bunch gangs in the United States. As I got into my car with my book I realized I still have time to go to school late. It was only nine O’ clock, so I better rush home, grab my stuff and speed to school. When I was heading home, at every stop light I took out the book and started reading some. The different types of gangs and how they have symbols to represent it. Like they would use bandanas or the type of car they drive. And I came to another stoplight I read that with some gangs that exist are not for violence or drug deals. That some actually are there to try to keep the peace in town. Which seems interesting. As I read some more I heard a car revving up beside me. I looked over to see an antique Thunderbird. It was red and had strips on the sides. I look at the driver and it was a younger guy. He could’ve been my age. He had black hair that was sleeked back. He wore nice clothing and seemed to be another person from the rich crowd. He looked over to me. He gave me a grin and sped off. I was amazed by how fast that car went. I was still admiring it when I heard car horns behind me, I look ahead and realized I have been sitting there while their was a green light. I started driving again. Who was that guy? He had such class to him. He doesn’t look like he goes to our school, and Carlie would’ve mention someone like him to me. No more distractions Eden! Got to hurry home then school!

I pulled into my driveway and it was a little after Ten and I felt it was a little late to go to school. Well, maybe I can take the day off and tell my Dad I was sick. I began heading to the door when I felt someone touch my back. I screamed and turned around awaiting to see some craze man. But it was no craze man, it was V. I took a sigh of relief. I looked at his face and it looked stress and worried. “V?” Is something wrong? Has something happened? I was then suddenly in his arms. He was holding me tight to his chest and he buried his face into my frizzy hair. “V? Something wrong?’ I asked while being constricted by him. He then let me go but was still holding on to my shoulders. “Is everything okay? Did something happen? Baby, tell me!” He asked frantically. “What?” I asked confused.

“I came here to pick you up and your car wasn’t here. I try calling your phone to see if you forgot about today but you didn’t answer. I went through the school parking lot and didn’t see your car. What happened? I‘ve been going through town looking for you worried sick!” Oh, he didn’t get my email. “I was…” I can’t use my hormonal excuse and I can’t tell him I went to the library. “You were?” He interrupted my thoughts. “I was…getting some time for myself. I have been so stressed lately, so I just got out of the house. I wrote you late last night but I guess you didn’t get it. But you don’t have to be so worried, I am very capable of being alone.”

“I worry because…things. There are thing that I don’t particularly feel comfortable with. I am not worried about you not handling yourself, I am worried about someone hurting you babe. I really don’t want to see you hurt.” Someone hurting me? Things? “Do you know someone in particular that is going to hurt me?” I folded my arms and looked at him curiously. “Well…uh…there is nothing wrong with being careful?” He was stuttering, so something is up. “Do you got something to tell me V?” He cocked his head in obvious disbelief. “No….. What? You all of a sudden don’t trust me?” He was really hiding something if he is using that excuse. I looked at his nose. “V. Did you know that when a guy is lying he flares his nose. You are flaring your nose right now.” His mouth dropped opened in further disbelief. “Do you know what I was going through this morning? And now you are saying I am hiding something?” He was right, he went through a rough morning because of me and here I am judging him. I then gave him a sincere hug and looked at his hurt eyes. “I am sorry. About now and this morning.” He smiled and kissed the tip of my nose. I gave him a peck on his chin. He finally gave me a good tight squeeze. “It is all good sweetie. I should be less worried.” I smiled. “Yep. I agree on that.” And he laughed. “So what are you doing on this long weekend. Obviously we are not going to school today, but what are you doing in the next three days?” I shrugged my shoulders. “My Dad will be gone for all three days so I guess I will just hang around the house.” He furrowed his eyebrows. “All alone?” He asked. I nodded my head to him. “No, I am not letting you.” He ordered. “What do you mean?” I asked confused. I can’t be alone this weekend? “I am going to spend the weekend with you, if you don’t mind.” What? He wants to spend the whole weekend with me. “How are you going to do that?” He smiled. “Your house is big enough to have a guest right? And since your Dad is gone, I could stay here. Again if you don’t mind.”

“Spend the weekend sleeping here? Well,… yeah that sounds like fun, I really don’t mind. Will you check under my bed for monsters for me?” I smiled. “Oh yeah! And the closet as well.” I giggled and he gave my a huge smooch on the forehead. I grabbed his hand and started to lead him to my house. He froze. I turn around and saw the hesitation in his face. “What is it?” He looked down to me and smiled. “Just never been in your house really. Besides your bedroom. I can’t be nervous?” I smiled and gave him even a bigger hug. I stood on my toes and gave him a kiss on his lips. He then held my face and kissed me back. I grabbed his hand again and led him into my house.

As I locked the door I looked back to V. His mouth was hanging. I giggled. “Do you like it? Is it how you imagined?” He just stood there dumbfounded. I grabbed his hand and pulled him upstairs. As we got to the hallway that led to the bedrooms , I offered him some options. “Here,” (I pointed to the door next to me), “ is my bedroom. There are five extra rooms. Make your pick.” He looked to me and pointed to the door near mines. “The one next to you, I want to be as close to you as possible.” So I lead him into the room he chose. There it had a TV on top of a wooden dresser and a king-sized bed centered in the middle of the room by a small desk. Also, this is the room with the balcony. The one where I spoke to V that night over a month ago. "You like?” I asked. "I like alot!” I giggled and pushed him on to see the view I had on the balcony. We stood there and looked to the woods in the back near the guest house. “You have a guest house?” He asked surprised. “No, well, yeah. But we turned it into a gym.” He was still shocked, I guess, by the size of my house. I brought him back to “his” room. I jumped on the bed and laid back. I looked toward V’s direction and saw him smiling at me. “What?” I hate it when he gives me that mischievous smile. That means something is up or something is about to happen. He walked toward the bed and sat on the edge. He began looking around then he looked up. He was distracted and not paying any attention to me. So I kicked him softly on the back. He didn’t move. I nudged him again with my foot. He still didn’t react. So I left him alone to be in his la-la land. “Have you ever wonder what it be like if you spend a day in my shoes?” He asked suddenly and randomly. “I don’t quite understand what you are trying to say to me.” He turned and looked at me. “What if I say my life isn’t like a lot of other guys? How would you react?” I didn’t know what to say at all, I don’t get it. Maybe he is going to tell the truth about something. Maybe one of the things I learned today. “It wouldn’t change how I feel about you. But I wouldn’t want you to be like every other guy. You would be too normal. That is the reason why I love you.”

He smiled, but he seemed worried. "In the beginning it was hard for me to explain things to you. And it still is hard for me. This weekend I really need to talk to you about some stuff.” I nodded my head. “Ok.” I responded. I can’t help but be nervous and anxious. As I stared back at his dark eyes, my phone began ringing. I leaned over and picked up my cell phone from my desk. The caller I.D said it was my dad. It must be an emergency if he is calling me during a school day.  "Hello"

I asked really surprised. “Hey honey. Sorry I am calling while you are at school. But I am going to leave early. I am leaving in an hour from the office to the meeting. I already brought all my clothing. So I am just letting you know and that I love you. Be safe this weekend! I am really trusting you.” Awesome! Another day to myself and probably with V also. “Okie Dokie Dad. I love you and get there safely!” I smiled to V and his curious face. “Ok honey. Love you. Bye.” “Love you too. Bye.”

I hung up and look at V again. “My Dad is leaving today for his meeting. So today I will be alone. You want to stay tonight also.” He smiled and nodded his head. “What do you want to do till then?” He asked. I thought about it but nothing came to mind. “Stay home?” He suggested. “Yeah. I am a bit tired. We can relax and watch a movie later on.” I sat up and got next to him. I rested my head on his shoulder and sighed. “Thank you V. For always being here for me.”

 

He wrapped his arm around me and gave me a good squeeze. “You’re my world. I will always be here.” I looked up at him, he stared back with his intense stare. I am used to that look, I now never look away when he does it. I only feel my inside melt and my heart pound.

He kissed my forehead, then my nose and trailed down to my lips. He intensely kissed my lips and pulled back. He smiled and got up. “I should go home and pick some clothing up for the weekend for I won’t go back and forth.” I nodded my head. “Ok. I’ll be waiting.” And he left.

 

And so I waited and waited. It became one O’ clock and began to feel like he was ditching him. But I know him better then that. As I slouched on the couch watching reruns of “Fresh Prince” I heard a knock on the door. I excitedly jumped up and ran to the door. “About time!” I complained when I opened the door. I looked up and realized it was not V. It was not V at all. He took off his sunglasses, this man, to get a good look at me. It was the guy in the Thunderbird that I saw earlier. I backed away slowly, preparing myself for a scream. A grin appeared on his face. “Are you Eden Dale?” He asked in his deep voice. I examined his muscular frame, wondering if I would be able to fight back if he tries to attack. I thought about his question and decided to cooperate rather than being stubborn. “Yes.” He grinned. “Good. Would you do a favor for me?” I nodded my head in response. “Can you tell Vann. Vann Field that I know.” He turned around and began walking to his car. “What is your name?!” I yelled. I had to know his name for I can tell V. He turned back around.

“Owen. Owen Scott.” And so he left quickly. As the car turned the corner, I finally let in some air.

My heart was pounding and my head felt light. I thought I was about to be raped or worst, murdered. My knees gave out beneath me and I fell to my knees. I put my head into my hands, trying to understand what happen. “I know.” Kept on running through my head. What did he mean by that? Also, how does he know my name and V’s? Questions! Too many questions are coming. “Eden?” I heard a voice asked. I shuddered but I knew the voice. “V.” I whispered. I looked up to him. His eyes turned from concerned to frightened. He dropped his clothing and ran to my side. “Sweetie what is it? What happened?” I just looked at him. I was still comprehending what had just happened and I can’t really explain it. The ground beneath disappeared as V lifted me and took me to the couch in the house. V sat next to me and wrapped his arm around me. “What happened?” He asked frantically. “He knows.” Was all I can say. His became confused. “Who knows what?” I still didn’t know what this guy knows. “I don’t know.” I said softly. “Who is he?” He asked again in his frantic voice. “His name….is Owen. Owen Scott.” I felt V’s body froze. I look to his face and saw udder terror in his face. His eyes were frightened, a look I have never really seen before. He must know something. “V? Do you know him?” He didn’t move nor did he respond. “V?” I said gently. He finally turned to me. “What is it?” I asked confused. Then, something I have definitely never seen before happen. A tear fell from V’s face. His face was grim. He began:

“You’re going to die.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7. Secrets

“What do you mean?” My voice became shaky. “Why am I going to die?” Tears began flowing from my eyes. “We need to leave now!” V got up and began pacing. “Go get your phone and a bag of clothing.” He ordered. I stood up, still not comprehending everything that’s happening. “Why?”

I asked. “Because we are leaving town.” I froze. “Leaving?” I squeaked. He turned to me. “Go! Go get your stuff before he comes back with others!” He yelled to me. I flinched, then ran upstairs. I dumped my backpack and filled it with some jeans, some tanks, and underwear. I grabbed my phone and my charger and began running back to V. He grabbed my stuff from me and ran to the car. He came back to me. “Come on!” He yelled. I flinched again. I’ve never, ever had heard V yell like this. He saw how frightened I was and began heading toward me. He grabbed me and held me in his arms. “I’ll explain everything to you in the car. We need to go sweetie.” I shook my head.

“My dad…” I heard him sigh and he began to rub my back. “He’ll be fine. He is gone, so when this is all over you can explain things to him. Now, lets go.” So he grabbed my hand and started to lead me to his car. He got the car started and sped away from my house. I looked back to it, wondering if it would be the last time seeing it. God only knows what is happening and what is about to happen. “Okay Vann, what the heck is happening?” He took in a deep breath. He pursed his lips and hesitation was appearing on his face. “V, I know you are hiding something. I felt it from the beginning.” He sighed. He knew they’re was no way out of this. “Have you ever heard of the KKK?”

I gasped. “You are a racist?” He chuckled a bit. “No, but have you heard of it?”

“Yes, of course!” he sighed again. “Before it became what it was in the fifties and today, it was an organization with a goal. Simply the Klan's goals included political defeat of the Republican Party and the maintenance of absolute white supremacy. When they got the job done, the organization faded away. Then it came back in the early to near mid 1900’s. It had a whole different view when it began again. They wanted anyone who was not white, gone. Do you get what I am saying?”

“I think. That the KKK’s original purpose changed?” He nodded his head. “Correct. Now what I am trying to say is….imagine an organization that has a purpose to keep the peace and order. No violence, no hate, no killing. Just peace.” I smiled. “That sounds nice actually!” He chuckled again. “Yeah, it does doesn’t it? But, like the KKK, something wrong happens. Everyone begins to believe that the organization is the cause for all the crimes and murders. Calling them a gang and wanting the police to stop them all!” Gang…is that what this is all about…a gang. “But are they the ones that are causing the crime?” I asked. He looked at me then looked back to the road. “No. A real gang is. And they are using it as their alibi.” He replied. A real gang. “V, I still don’t understand.”

He took in a deep breath. “I have always hated your father! He has locked up my friends and my father for false reasoning. Claiming they murdered this person or kidnapped this one. It isn’t true!

Your father locked up my father for supposedly killing my mother and kidnapping my sister! It isn’t true. I was with him when it all happen. He did not do all that stuff! They use that lame excuse to lock him away because….he was the original leader of the organization I was talking about. He is the leader of the Mustangs!” He finally took in a deep breath. He was upset and seemed hurt. Wait! Did he say Mustangs? “So are you saying that night we went out and I saw those words graffiti all over the wall, is the name of the gang, I mean…organization?” He nodded his head.

“So that means the “Crows” is the real gang?” He nodded his head again. Right there, a lot of things were staring to connect. “Is Owen the leader of the Crows?” He nodded his head once more. “And my brother Luke is the leader of The Mustangs. And let me tell you, there is going to be a war.” I froze. “A war? You mean, you guys are going to fight?! I thought you were peaceful. The organization I mean.” He nodded his head. “Yes. But when someone steps on the line, and they’ve been stepping on it quite a bit. It is time to end it.” I gasp. “Are you going to fight?” He didn’t respond. He stayed quite for a while. “I am fighting for you.” He finally came out with.

“No! Why? You’re going to get hurt!” He shook his head. “I have to fight for you cause they now know who you are and they’re going to try to kill you. Because…they must know you are my weakness. And if they take you away from me,…then I become weak. So I have to stop them before they do that. Before they get to you. But I am not alone. Everyone that is in this Org, which is a short name for it, knows. About you and who you are.” They know who I am!

“You snitched V. You said you won’t tell anyone. I knew when I saw that text message where Chandler asked who I was, that you would tell him.” He cocked his head and looked at me shocked. Oops! I wasn’t suppose to say that. “You went through my phone?” He asked in udder disbelief. “Yeah. But you shouldn’t have said anything!” He shook his head. “I didn’t.”

“Huh? Then who did?” I asked . He didn’t say anything. “Carlie?” I began guessing. “No.” He replied. “Who? Tell me!” He rolled his eyes. “Tom.” I gasped. “Tom, how does he know?”

“Carlie must’ve told him and when my guys tracked him down a few days after the incident, he told them. About you and who you are. Then it spread to the whole Org and they couldn’t believe it. That I am in love with the daughter of the only man I hate.” I started to blush, though it wasn’t the right time to be bashful. “How do they feel about it? About you and me?” He smiled.

“At first they didn’t like it. Not at all. But soon they began to accept one at a time. First Ryan then finally my brother. And they are most willingly to help me to protect you. But all of this not only deals with you. It also deals with our right as an Org. If they win, we lose everything. Everything we have worked for. And we are not ready to give it up yet. And if they win, this whole town will go back to chaos. And who are they going to blame? Us. And we don’t want that to happen again. We want our names to be cleared.” I took in everything he has said… “Can I help?” I asked. He looked at me surprised but he shook his head. “Too dangerous. I am going to take you to Chandler’s apartment. We will be safe there for now. And when the time comes, I will find you a better hiding place.” He began dialing his phone, maybe calling Chandler. “Chandler?” He waited. “Yeah it’s me, V. We got a problem. They know.” He pause for awhile. “Yes she knows.” He looked over toward me and smiled. He then placed his hand on my cheek and began messaging it. Without moving his hand he looked back. We were parked at the McDonalds parking lot while he was on the phone. I finally held his hand. I looked ahead seeing the café we ate at that night. That amazing night. I look back to V. “She very well understands us. What? Luke is with you? Put me on speaker.” There was another pause. V finally put his hand down and started the car again. “Hey. You know? Good, well I am bringing her to the apartment now. She has already had an encounter with him.” Another pause. “I know. We shouldn’t have gotten her involve. But even if we weren‘t together, they will still try to kill her to bring her Father down.” Pause. “I am on my way now.” He looked back to me. “I don’t know when it is going to happen nor where. All he said to her was that he knows.” He took in a deep breath. “Yeah. We’ll see you there.” “Bye.” He put the phone down and sighed. “Everyone is going to meet at his apartment. I mean everyone in the Mustang Org. I just hope it doesn’t cause a lot of attention. We don’t need that! So that means you are going meet everyone!” I grimaced.

“Sounds like fun!” I replied sarcastically. We stayed silent for awhile. Once in awhile he would grab my hand and squeeze it. “So Vann. What really happened to your sister?” I finally blurted out.

“I really don’t know. But, I am still hoping she is alive. She was so beautiful. She had amber eyes and strawberry blonde hair. She was very stubborn, like you are at times. She was really a gift to our family. You know that Ryan use to date her. Also, not only that, my father actually decided to end the Org., when she would turn eighteen. He didn’t want her to see the things he and the rest of us have seen. But sadly after her birthday, she went missing.”

“Hmmm, do you ever think that maybe someone in the Org. didn’t like that idea. That maybe if she went missing he would change his mind.” He froze and look at me shocked. “You know, you just might be right. But we can’t think about that now though. We got other problems.” I nodded my head in agreement. We finally came to some apartments. V parked the car next to some other mustangs. Then something popped in my head. “I just thought of something V. Your Org. is called Mustangs. So does that mean that everyone owns a mustang car?” He smiled. “Yes. You are right.”

“So the “Crows” all drive Thunderbirds?” He grinned again. “Yep. You got it.” He got out of the car and went to the trunk. I came out and he was holding my backpack and everything. “You ready sweetie?” He smiled with reassurance. “Yep!” I ran to him and grabbed his hand. We walked up the stairs to the second floor and came to 320B. V knocked on the door and it open right away. As he began to walk in, I froze. He turned around and smiled. “There is nothing to be scared of sweetie. I am here you know.” I nodded my head and followed him in. It was dark except for the kitchen light was on. As I examined the room, I notice the people that were in here was examining me. I only recognized Chandler, Luke, Dean, Bobby, and Ryan. There were five other guys that I didn’t know. “If you don’t know her already, this is Eden Dale.” Vann announced. I waved my hand to everyone and tried to have a confident face. “Hey!” Someone yelled. I kind of recognized the voice, I turned and it was Brodie. “Brodie?” I gasped. “Surprised?” He asked. I was more then surprised. I thought he was in the rich crowd and he also always knew who I was but was never mean to me. Well maybe because he was with the rich kids and he had to keep to the code. “Just a little.” I answered. He smiled and went to the couch with Ryan and Dean. V pulled me forward and the guys that I didn’t recognize came into view. “Let me introduce!” He pointed to a tall muscular guy with glasses and short blonde hair. “This is Max. My brother’s right hand man.” He smiled. “Hi Max!” He smiled some more. V pointed to the second guy. He was shorter then Max and had a buzzed cut look like Dean. He had dark brown hair and was very muscular. “This is Kyle. He is Dean’s younger brother. “ I smiled. “Hey Kyle.” He nodded his head in response. Vann then pointed to the third guy. He had longer brown hair. He wasn’t very strong looking, he was tall and skinny. “This is Adam. He is new.” I waved to him and he smiled. He finally pointed to the fourth guy. He was very tall and very muscular. He had sleeked back light blonde hair. “This is Dillon.” I nodded my head. “Well we are waiting for three more people. It won’t take long.” I nodded my head again to V to let him know I understand. He smiled and gave me a kiss on the head. “Awe!” A girly voice said out of know where. I turn around to see a short girl. “Hey I am Jenna. I am Chandler’s girlfriend.” Yes. I am not the only girl! “Hey Jenna, I am…” “Eden. I know. I have been hearing so much about you. Especially from V.” I blushed. I wonder what he has been saying about me. “Don’t worry Eden. It is all good stuff. Like how cute you are when you get upset. And when you get mad at him you always pout your lips.” I turned red and I heard Ryan and Bobby laughing. I look at V and a huge grin was on his face. I smacked him good across the back of the head. I squinted my eyes at him in disbelief. “Thanks Jenna.” He replied to her. She smiled and skipped to Chandler. He embraced her and she smothered him with kisses. “Can I put our stuff in the guest room?” V asked Chandler. “Yeah. You can go rest up. I think it’ll be awhile till the rest come.” V lead me to a room down a hallway. We got in and it was a plain as I though it would be. A dresser, a bed, and a lamp was there. I guess this would do. “Home sweet home!” V announced. He threw our stuff by the corner and fell on the bed. He patted a spot next to him. I got on the bed and began snuggling myself under his arm. We laid there in silence. It must of been three O’ clock but we just relaxed. V finally turned his head to face me and I did the same to face him. “Wow.” Was I can say. He smiled. “So much stuff to take in, huh?” He asked calmly. I nodded my. “But I had this feeling, you know….but can I tell you something?” He smiled. “Of course!” I took in a deep breath. “Today. I didn’t go out to relax or take a breather. I went to the library. I went there to…to look up in public record about your mom and dad.” I waited for him to respond. He just stared up at the ceiling. He then began chuckling, something I didn’t expect. “It’s ok. I am sort of glad you did. For I wont go into details about my past. It is hard for me to do that. But it is funny. I had a feeling that you would do that one day. You are very smart and know when something is up. This weekend actually I was going to tell you the truth.” I giggled. “Same here. Well, I was going to interrogate you this weekend. About your past.” He laughed. “We do think alike, don’t we?” I smiled. “Yeah, that is what makes us awesome.” I replied. I tuck head even more under his arm. “I almost forgot Eden. I promised you something awhile back.” I look up at him surprised. “I don’t remember.” He smiled.

“My nickname!” Oh! He was right! “Yeah, what does your nickname mean?” I asked. “Well, have you ever seen the movie V for Vendetta?”

“Some of it. A man in a mask wants revenge for what happened to him.” He grinned some more.

“Would you mind telling me what his name was?” I thought about it. “It was V…you are nicknamed after him? Why?” Why would he nicknamed by him. “Ever since my father was put in jail, all I crave for was revenge. Revenge on the cops, revenge on your father, and revenge for who really killed my mother. But ever since you came into my life, I never realized how closely related I was to that character. You see when he meets Eve, all the anger he had, all the revenge he wanted went away. Because he fell in love with her. With you, all my anger I had, all the revenge I wanted. It went away, because of you Eden. Without you, I would still be lost. That is why you are my everything.”

I felt my eyes water up, he truly meant that. That without me, he would be… “V, that is so sweet and I am glad I have you. You actually are the one who gave me some backbone, you gave me the ability to stand up for myself. And for that, thank you.” I gave him a long kiss on the cheek. He grabbed my face and began kissing me fiercely on my lips. I began kissing him back. We both sat up. He wrapped his arms around me while still kissing me with all his force. I sunk my fingers into his soft hair. The intensity we had could have been felt from miles away. They way he held on to me, all the passion we have. I pulled him closer and he began to hold me tight to him, like he didn’t want to let me go. Like he was going to lose me. Then a loud noise came from behind. We both jump and turned to see Ryan at the door, panting. “V…” He was trying to catch his breath. “Ryan what is it?” He asked frantically. “I went to go get Jared, Rick, and Clay. But….” Tears were coming out form his eyes. “Ryan! Tell me!” V ordered. He looked back up to us. “They are dead. The Crows got to them.” I looked at V, his eyes were widened with fear. He began breathing heavily. “NO, NO, NO!” He yelled. “V.” I whispered to myself. What does this mean? Why are they killing? “V.” I said even louder to help calm him down. He glanced back to me with angered eyes. He looked back to Ryan. “They want blood. Then we’ll give them blood.” He got off from the bed and started to head out of the room. I began following. “Vann, where are you going? Wait!” He turned back around. “Stay here Eden with Jenna.” He turned to everyone in the living room. “Okay everyone. Let’s go scare some Crows!” He yelled. Everyone began hollering and wooing. Only Jenna and I stood there in silence. We were fearing the worst. Fearing that people will die but most of all, fearing we are going to lose the men we love. Everyone began heading out of the apartment, we heard all the cars starting up. Chandler kissed Jenna on the head before he left. V stood by the door and smiled at me. He didn’t kiss me goodbye, he just left. Maybe it would be to hard on him. I don’t know. Jenna and I went to the couch and sat down in silence. I looked at her, it seemed like a reflection of my face. She was worried sick like me. We both sighed at the same time. “Does this happen a lot?” I asked. She turned to face me. “Not often. The last fight like this was when Vann and Luke’s father was leader and the Crows former leader was alive. You see, Owen just became leader of the Crows. His father had just died from cancer about a month ago. It doesn’t help that Owen is young and ruthless. While his father was a man who planned and thought things through. I don’t know who’s worst. Owen, someone who would kill anyone who is in his way or his father, someone who was always one step ahead.” I sighed in stress. “So they are going to fight tonight?” I asked anxiously. She shook her head. “They are going to separate some Crow members and try to scare them to leave the gang. It is call the ‘Scarecrow Tactic’. It sometimes work. But who knows, Owen probably has recruited new members.” She began sighing herself. “There hasn’t been a war like this in four years.” I cocked my head. “War?” I asked confused. “Yes. You see there are fights then there are wars. This is a war. Anyone, young or old, man or woman, gets in there way…will be killed. Not from our side but will be killed from the people on there side. Like I said, they are ruthless.” I shook my head in disbelief.

“But mainly, from what I hear. They are trying to kill us.” I gasped. “Us?” She nodded her head. “Any woman that is dating an Org. member, is automatically in line to be killed first. That is why they hide us. Dean’s girlfriend was killed and so was Adam’s. We are the Mustang’s weakness. The Crows think if they kill us, then all of the Mustangs will come down.” I shook my head again. Poor Dean, poor Adam. “But mostly they are going to try to kill you Eden!”

“Why? Is it because of who I am? V was somewhat saying that.” She nodded her head. “Yes. And you are V’s girlfriend. V is next in line to be leader of the group if Luke ever gets hurt or dies. So if they kill you, V will be weak and they can easily kill him. Then no one can take place as leader.”

“But why? Can’t someone else take lead?” She shook her head. “No, it is a birthright. The original creator of the Mustangs is V’ grandfather. Then it passed down to Jason then to Luke and then V.

Same is for the Crows. It is all birthright.” I guess that makes sense. We stayed quiet for sometime. Jenna finally got up. “Want to make some dinner? We need to feed our men if they do come back.”

I got up. “Sounds like a plan.”

We cooked all afternoon making Spaghetti and homemade bread. But they still weren’t back and it was about to be seven. We sat there at the large table with all the food awaiting them. I sighed. “Well, they better not expect us to warm-up the food for them.” Jenna laughed. “Yeah. Chandler better not expect me to cater to him. But who knows, I might. I just love him that much.” I smiled.

“Vann loves you very much Eden. You are his world. His night and his day. His everything. You are a fortunate woman to have a man like him. Even Chandler doesn’t love me as much as V loves you.” I smiled again. “I can see Chandler loves you very much. There is different type’s of ways of loving someone. And I can see that Chandler loves you in a special way. Just from what I saw today.” She grinned. “Yeah, at first I thought V was obsessed with you. The way he talked about you and he would go to your house at night to make sure nothing wrong is happening to you. And this was all before you started officially dating!” I couldn’t believe V was like that. It sounds obsessive. Hey, V is V. “Well I love him more then anything. I am willing to die for him if the time comes for that. He saved me from becoming…insane. I am glad I have met him.”

“Awe, so cute.” Jenna replied. I giggled. I yawned, I didn’t realize how tired I was. I looked back to Jenna. She was smiling. “Go to bed Eden. I can put the stuff away.”

“Thanks. You know, I think we are going to be good friends.” She laughed. “No, we are going to be best friends.” We both laughed at the same time. We got up and she head over to me and gave me a hug. “Don’t worry! V is strong. He can handle anything.” She reassured me. “Thanks Jenna. That means a lot to me. Chandler, V, and everyone is going to be alright!” We both smiled.

“Go rest Eden.” I nodded my head and went to the room. It is good to have someone to help me adjust and understand things. I laid on the bed and stared at the ceiling. Reviewing the events of the day and the events that are soon to come. The thing is, how am I going to explain to my father all of this? Well, when the time comes I will handle it. I started to feel my eyelids getting heavy. It was hard to keep it open. I finally gave up and let the sleep come.

 

I jumped out of my bed. A loud, a really loud noise came from the living room. I look around remembering that I was not at home. I jumped again as another loud boom came from there.

I slowly crept to the door. I heard light footstep moving around. Maybe Jenna dropped something. I softly opened the door. I peeked out to see if there was anything or anyone there. I slowly got out of the room. I Tipp toed to see if everything was ok. As I was about to peer around the corner, something caught my attention. As I looked to the left of me on the wall, a hand print was there. A handprint with blood all over it. I was about to cry out but I put my hand over my mouth before I did. As I look to the floor that lead to the living room, I saw blood trailing to the kitchen. Like someone was dragged. As I slowly looked around the corner, I saw more blood. Then more and more. Finally my eyes landed on a body. The lifeless body of Jenna. I squeaked out of fear and terror. As I turned back around and a tall figure stood in front of me. I finally let out a scream. “You must be Eden.” The deep voice said to me. He then grabbed my shoulders and I began to try escape. As I moved he slammed me back to the wall. I yelped in pain. “Lets have some fun!” Then he threw me to the floor. As I landed on the floor I heard something snap. My hand began throbbing in pain. I screamed out in agony. As I began crawling toward the opened front door another figure came through it. “Ah, the D.A’s daughter. If only V was here to see the way you look right now. Its priceless.” That voice I knew it. It was him. It was Owen. I began panting heavily. I felt the adrenaline rushing through me. He kneeled next to me as I laid on the floor holding my hand. “You are so beautiful when your in pain.” He grabbed my face, I turned away. “Too bad I couldn’t see that with that girl over there. Her death was so quick and painless. But for you,…oh I promise the opposite.” I began screaming some more. Hopefully someone can here me. Owen moved his hand and slapped me. Pain rushed to my cheek. He looked up to the other guy. “Richie, go get the pliers.” I began crying more. The he left the place, leaving me with him. “So, which one should go first?” He began grabbing my fingers. “Your pinkie or your thumb?” I began panting some more. He began smiling at that. I then smiled back to him. He cocked his head confused. “How about this?” I hit him hard in the face with my good hand and began running to the bedroom. I locked it and ran to the window trying to open it. I heard something slam on the door. “You are not getting away from me yet!” He yelled. I finally got the window open, as I climbed out bullets went shooting through the door. They missed me as I got on to the roof. I began climbing down as fast as I can. I still heard the bullets shooting at the door. I finally hit the grass and began running as far way as I could from them. I began cutting across yards and running in front of cars. I had to go, and keep on going as far away as I could or I am going to be dead. I finally reached the McDonalds and decided to hide near the back of the café. I saw a big garbage can and decided to hide behind it. As I sat down in the darkness something moved beside me. I jumped, thinking it was Owen. But as I turned to face where the movement came from, it wasn’t him. An old homeless man stared at me angered. “Get out of my home!” He yelled and ordered. “Shhh, please. I am trying to hide. Please!” I begged to the smelly old man. He got up and grabbed all his stuff. He began walking away grumbling to himself. “First the government takes my home now a bimbo.” I turned back my attention to the road, watching to see if a Mustang or Thunderbird drives by. It had to be near midnight because no one was driving on the streets. I laid back on the wall relaxing while holding on to my throbbing hand. I finally let all that had happen not to long ago set in. Tears began to flow from my eyes. Jenna. Her lifeless body kept on appearing in my head. I let the tears come down as I suddenly felt more and more tired, so I let sleep come again.

“Hello?” Kept on flowing in my head. “Are you okay?” The voice asked. I moaned in response. “Your hand!” The voice exclaimed. I slowly opened my eyes. A blonde woman stood in front of me. I squinted my eyes from the brightness of the sun. “I’ve seen you before. You came some time ago to the café with V.” The woman announced to me. I looked at her again and it was the hostess that took us to our table. “V?” I asked confused. “Honey, your hand, let me take a look at it.” It slowly registered and I willingly let her look at my swollen hand. “Yep. It is broken! You need to go to the hospital before it is unable to heal.” I shook my head in response. “I can’t.” I answered her. “Why?” She asked confused. I didn’t respond. “Okay, well how about I wrap something on it. I think we have a first aid kit inside.” I nodded my head and she help me up. We went in the back entrance and had me sit down. I was still out of it, as she tend to my arm. “What happened?” She asked curiously. “I…fell.” If I told her that I was thrown to the floor by a guy from a gang, she would either think I am crazy or call the police. And the police can not be involved. “Ok, all done. You should really go to the hospital before it gets worst.” I got up. “Thanks, I will, maybe.” I began to leave. “Wait! She yelled. I turn back around. “You look like a mess. Here’s an extra shirt we have. Put it on, it probably make you look less like a hobo.” I took the shirt. “Thanks, again.” I went to the bathroom and changed. As I looked to the mirror, I saw the how messed up I look. My cheek where Owen hit, had a black and blue and was somewhat swollen. And my hair was all tangled into knots. I decided to wash my face and put my hair up. As I left the café, I couldn’t help but see the worried face the woman had. I finally left. I began running again, hoping to find a new place to hide. It kind of feels like I am playing a game of hide and seek, if I didn’t know that I would be killed if I was found. But this is not a fun game at all since lives are at stake. And I need to find a place to hide and soon or I will be found in this dreadful game of hide and seek.

 

 

 

 

8. Dying is worth trying

I must have been running for hours to reach the destination I planned to hide at. I was starting to feel weaker and weaker. As I ran some more, I saw the entrance of the place and began to pick up the pace. I started to dart to it as it appear in front of me. The most majestic place I have ever laid my eyes on. The most beautiful place that exists. I finally stop to catch my breath by the Oak tree we parked at that month ago. I finally took a look at the beautiful, glowing lake. Lake Bass. The place where me and Vann spent the day together. The place where I started to know what love is and to know how it is to be loved. It was just as beautiful or maybe more from the last time I saw it. I started to walk to the benches to relax. I sat and sighed. I began to exam my messed up hand and how swollen it looked. But more importantly, I began thinking about V and how he is doing? I wonder if they came back to the apartment and saw….Jenna. I wonder how Chandler is? What if he was the one to find her dead body? Oh, poor Chandler. They don’t deserve this at all! All this suffering and people dieing. So far, four people have died because of this. Jenna and the other three members. I just hope no one else has fallen victim to…him. How can a person be so heartless? Being able to kill and torture people without no compassion. V, please be safe! Don’t die… I laid back on the bench and began watching the blue sky slowly turning grey. Maybe its a sign, maybe what I am hoping for is not going to come true. A day starting so bright, is now slowly turning dark. Maybe the Crows are overpowering them. Who knows how many people are in his gang. Who knows what the outcome is going to be. Who knows when…we all die. “Stop thinking negative!” I yelled out to myself. I sat up and began to think positive. Jenna says V is strong. He has to be strong! He is strong! I know that he is strong, strong enough to end it all! To bring back the peace that we had together in the beginning. Everything was fine in the beginning, but life can’t be perfect. We are not perfect.

But I have to stay strong like V. To not give in to my own insanity. To keep fighting though we may be losing. To remember that if we win, that the peace will finally begin. And I will be able to go back home and see to my father. And also to be with V, if possible, forever. To be back into is gentle and warm arms, and to hear him whisper softly into my ear how much he loves me. To have him kiss me gently on my lips. To have him trace my lips again. I felt a wet drop on me, I look up and the sky began to pour its rain on me. I sat there, letting the rain fall on me. To help me clear my head, to think properly. I have to figure out what to do next. What do I need to do? I can’t stay here forever, or V may never find me. I have to find V. I need to stop hiding and begin seeking. Once I am with Vann and the others, everything will be ok. I laid back down on the bench, to plan my way to find V. “Ay me.” I whispered to myself. Then an idea clicked. What if I return to the apartment? Owen and his gang should be gone. And maybe some people have return. Whoever it may be, whoever it is. I just don’t really care.

They can take me to Vann. And I will be safe. I don’t need to worry about where to hide next. I finally jump off the bench and slowly begin walking. My feet and legs are sour with stiffness. And my head is pounding with a major headache. I put my hand in my pocket, I felt something hard. I grabbed the object out of my pocket to see what it is. My heart began beating faster with excitement as I was looking at my cell phone. I turned it on and saw I had,….thirty missed calls. I saw that they were all V’s calls and some where my Dads. I started to dial his number and waited anxiously. “Eden?” Was yelled right after the second ring. “V…” I responded quietly. “Baby! Where are? Oh god! I thought you were dead. Speak to me baby, tell me you are alright. Tell me that you are ok.” I heard his voice cracking. He was…crying. “V,… I….”

I stuttered. I was so shock to hear his gentle and sweet voice. “Baby where are you? Is something wrong? Are you hurt? Tell me!” I was too overjoyed to speak. “Honey?” He asked, his voice sounded seemingly more frightened. I finally got my cool. “V, it is so nice to hear you.” I said as calmly as I can without breaking down. If I were to break down, it would make him even more worried. “Sweetie, how are you? Where are you?” He asked, sounding more calm. “I am walking up the road, the road that leads to Lake Bass. I was hiding there for awhile. Did you…find her?” I asked, very unsure if I should ask it. “Yes.” He responded grimly. “Did they find you honey? Did you make it out,…okay?” He asked unsure also. I took in a deep breath. “I came out of my room right after they shot her. A guy name Richie found me and…threw me across the floor. I broke my hand.” I waited for a response but there was only silence on his side of the phone. “Then Owen came in, he threatened me. But I hit him and jumped out of the window. So I guess you can say, I am much better now.” He was still silent. “Vann, is everything okay with you and everyone else. Anything bad? Anything good?” He took in a deep breath. “No. We lost some one but don’t worry. Luke and Chandler and also Adam got some people.” I didn’t quit understand what he was saying. “What do you mean, you lost someone and they got some?” He sighed. “My brother is holding hostage, if you want to say that, six member of The Crows. But we did lost someone.” He took in a deep breath. “Bobby is dead.” I started to choke from the cry that wanted to come out. “Bobby?” I asked, very unsure if he said the right name. “Yes.” He responded, sounding like he was about to cry himself. “His parents? What about everyone parents?” He was silent. “The truth will come out when this is all over and when the police get involve.” I walked some more. “Vann we need to meet. I can’t be alone forever.” I told him. “Are you able to meet me, in front of West Side Highs School’s entrance.” I sighed. “I can’t walk that far Vann. Why can’t you come and pick me up?” He sighed. “My car got shot at and me and Ryan are stranded by the school. Kyle is heading to pick us up.” I finally sat down by the side of the road. He was shot at! He could’ve been killed. “Vann, I…” I can’t say anything more. I can’t do anything more. My body is sore and I feel helpless.

“Eden. I …”

“I what?” I asked. But there was no response. I look at my phone which had a black screen. The battery had just died. Great! What am I going to do now? It must be at least two O’ Clock. So I guess I will head to the school if that means walking five more hours. I got up but I fell back to the ground again. I feel so weak and my legs feel so wobbly. I got to keep going though. I got too, I need too be with him. I got back up and began the long walk to the high school. As I continued, people would drive by and stop to see if I was ok, they must of seen how messed up I look. With me swollen cheek and my swollen hand. I nodded my head though. I don’t want any attention at all. Can’t get the police involve yet. As I treaded some more it began getting later and later as I walked further and further. I was hungry and thirsty but I need to keep going. The sky kept on getting darker though the rain was already done. I finally turn the corner that lead to the high school, so I only had at least three miles to go. I heard a car beep behind me. I turn around, praying it be V. The car got next to me. The window rolled down and I peered in. “Tom!?” I screamed out in shock. “Need a ride?” The man I despise so much asked. I began walking, ignoring his offer. He slowly followed. “Eden. I am so sorry about the incident at the party. I was, a little drunk. I really didn’t know what go into me. Let me say, you don’t look so well. You look hurt. Need me to drive you anywhere.” I stopped and slowly turned to him in the car. “You really want to help me? Then go away? Ok!” I replied harshly. I began to walk again. “Eden. I said I was sorry. Give me a second chance as a friend. Let me drive you somewhere. That’s the least I can do! I feel horrible about what happened.” I sighed. “You know, the least you can do is stop bothering me.” I heard him sigh. “I am doing my best to make up for you what I’ve done. I am helping you out, seeing you walk all by yourself at night. Its dangerous.”

“It is more dangerous to ride in the car with you.” I heard him chuckle. “Well, I am not a stranger to you. How can I be any more dangerous then a craze man?” I laughed. “You are a craze man, I believe. Just leave me alone!” I began to pick up the pace. He began to drive a little faster to keep up with me. “I can’t leave you out here, all alone! Let me take you somewhere please! Its wet outside and you look very sick. Well, more then sick. Just trust me just this once! I very well promise to not do anything. I am not drunk, I am just offering to help you.” I stop. “Fine. But you keep your hands at least five feet away for me. Ok!?” He smiled and unlock the door. I got into his car and enjoyed the warm air that hit me. I look to him, “Take me to the front of the school please.” He smiled again. “Why?” He asked. “Don’t ask questions just do it!” I ordered. “As you wish.” He began driving. He kept to his promise, he kept five feet away from me. I began yawning as I felt as sleep creeping up on me. I did my best to keep my eyes open. I do not want to fall asleep next to a rapist. I finally caught sight of the school. I began to get ready to jump out of the car when Tom locked the doors. “Huh?” I turned around. And a scheming smile was on his face. I turn back to see that we past the school. I started to scream and started to try to open the door. “Tom? What are you doing?” I yelled. He didn’t respond. I began to pushing on the door and began hitting the window. “Let me out!” I screamed. “No.” He responded coolly. I turned around, preparing myself to hit him but something hard hit my head. Something very hard. Everything began to turn dark. Soon everything was black and all I heard was laughing. And soon, the laughing disappeared.

“You did well.” A voice said. I still saw nothing. Everything was still dark and my head was pounding in pain. “I hope you didn’t hit her to hard. I don’t want her dead yet.” The man said. My eyes began to slowly open but things were still blurry. I began to try to move my arms but it felt tied together. It was unmovable. “Aw. She is awake.” The voice began to register to me as things became a little less blurry. I saw at least six tall figures standing before me. “Hello beautiful.” The voice sounded closer. I felt something soft on my cheeks. “Your cheeks are so soft.” He whispered into my ear. He kissed me again on my cheek. The monster was kissing me, the monster named Owen. I began squirming around but my legs felt tied together also. Then things came into view. The six figure were Tom, Richie, Owen and some other guys. The only difference was Tom was standing in the background. The other five must be members of the Crows. I turn my attention to Owen, who was the closes to me. I try to wiggle out of what tied me together but it didn’t help. And it seem to encourage Owen more to mess with me. “Oh, you can’t get out this time. There is no way to escape.” I started to look around me and notice that we were all in some sort of warehouse. There was not a window in sight and only one large door. “And no one is going to save you. You see we just killed three more members of your dear Mustangs. I think they were named Max and Chandler and Brodie. Yes. It was them. Chandler was so weak seeing that he lost the love of his life. It was easy to kill him. Maw was much more of a challenge, he is a very strong willed man. So his death was slow. Brodie, well let me not go into details about him.” I looked to Tom who seemed disgusted that his “friend” was murdered. I look back to Owen. “You are sick.” I told him. He began laughing hysterically. “You haven’t seen sick yet.” I held my breath, awaiting for him to do something terrifying to me. He turned around to face Tom. He looked a little scared as Owen walked towards him. He started backing up. “Remember what you promise me Owen. If I brought her, you promise to not hurt me.” Owen stopped right in front of him. Everyone turn to see what is going to happen, except for Richie. He was busy watching me with a wicked smile. “I know what I promised. But…” He got closer to him. “You didn’t say I can’t kill you, right?” Tom face went terrified, then he froze suddenly. He then slowly began falling to the floor and he loudly hit his head on the concrete. He laid there as blood flowed from where he was stabbed at. His eyes were wide open as he stared at me. As he slowly started to fade away, I saw him mouth the words, “Sorry.” Tears began to stream down from my eyes. Owen turned around and had a malicious face on. He was holding a switch blade cover in Toms blood. I closed my eyes as two of the men dragged him away. As I heard the door shut I open my eyes. There Owen, Richie, and another man stared at me. “Now what should we do with you?” He began pacing around. “Using pliers is a yesterday thing. Hmmm, shooting you is just too quick. Like I learned, with killing, you need to savor the moment.” I began to feel the adrenaline again as he went through the choices of torturing and killing me as well my stomach churning in disgust. “Why is tormenting me such a big deal to you? If you can kill Jenna so quickly then why not kill me the same way.” He turned back to me. “You are very special to me Eden. Very special. Not only are you dating a Mustang leader of type but you are also the District Attorney’s daughter. It is like hitting two birds with one stone. I became leader right in time. It is like perfect timing. And… when V finally finds you, I want him to see how messed up you are after I am through with you.” I took in a deep breath as I prepared myself for the torture to come. He came closer and I closed my eyes. I can’t see what is going to be done to me. A sudden sharp pain came from my rib as he kicked me. I heard a loud pop and I cried out in anguish. I then felt a warm breath near my ear giving me a sudden tingle of fear. He began to whisper to me. “And when Vann comes to find you, he will have the same fate as you.” I gasped and a loud noise came from outside. My eyes flashed open and everyone turned around to the commotion from outside. “What is it?” Owen asked Richie. They all look around, as much confused as I am. Another loud noise echoed through the place again. Everyone turn to the door. It came flying open with a loud thud. I slowly turn my head to the door. There stood my angel of light. My everything. There he stood with the others with anger in his face. More then anger, hatred. His eyes moved from looking at Owen to looking at me. Sudden heartache fell upon his face. He looked like he was in misery. Did I look that bad? “V…” I whispered loudly. He kept staring at me while the rest came walking further. His eyes were turning red. He finally directed his attention to Owen and the other two. I looked at Owen who was backing up with the others. “Why is it not the Mustangs. Nice to see you all are well.” Luke smiled. “I can’t say the same for the other two out there.” Luke replied. I have never heard his voice before. It was deep and powerful. It made him sound strong and threatening. As I took in a deep breath the pain from my ribs shocked throughout my body. I screamed out in pain. Everyone turned to look at me. Vann was then by my side. Kneeling beside me. He was about to touch me but pulled his hand back. Like if he were to touch me I would break even more. I closed my eyes wishing that the pain would subside when I felt a warm drop fell on my cheek. I look up and saw V tearing up. “Sorry.” He whispered. I smiled. I wish I was untied to touch his face and kiss him. He then notice my desperate need o touch him and brought out a knife. He cut the rope that was binding my hands and feet. I suddenly felt free. “Vann, come here.” I heard Luke order. He didn’t listen. He kept on staring at crippled me. “I love you.” I slowly let out. I felt tears of my own falling from my face as I laid there staring at the love of my life. “Vann!” Luke yelled. “Don’t you see. He cares more for her then you.” Owen was trying to manipulate Luke but I saw it wasn’t working. Vann then softly kiss my still swollen cheek. “Stay here.” He asked of me. I somewhat let out a giggle. “The last time I listen to you, I almost got killed.” He didn’t take the joke lightly. His face became sullen. “Please.” I nodded my head slowly. He got up and began to head to the others. Luke then turn back his attention to Owen. It was three against seven. The Mustangs are going to win this. “Lets end this.” Luke announced. “Lets.” Then the odds became even. Four people came out and stood next to Owen. “I have recruited some more people dear Luke.” I look at the new people. Three of them I did not recognize but one I did. Max was standing amongst them all. Luke’s face went into shock. “It is always good to have someone undercover, right?” Owen said. Max had a smile that made him look more worst then Owen. That little…. “So you want to finish this, right?” Owen asked. Luke looked back to Owen. “No weapons.” Luke ordered. All of the Crows smiled. Owen nodded his head and they all began disarming themselves. Putting down knifes, guns, and things that I don’t even know. “Anything else?” Owen asked. “Yes.” Luke look back to everyone and me. He turn back his attention. “Get ready for some pain.” And they all began hollering. Vann looked back at me and smiled. I grimaced in return. Owen smiled. “Lets do it!” And everyone began running toward each other. Fist began flying and punches were everywhere. I sat up a little. I wanted to close my eyes but I had to watch to see if Vann was alright. I had to know that he was ok. He was fighting the Richie guy. I couldn’t tell who was winning. Vann hit Richie good in the face and Richie hit Vann pretty hard in the stomach. Then Vann was pinned up against the wall by him. “Vann!” I screamed. But I couldn’t say much more as the pain hit me again. “You are so weak.” I heard Richie taunting him out of all of the commotion. I heard Vann groaning as he began choking him. His grip on Vann’s neck got tighter and tighter. Vann glanced at me. He then smiled as he was being choked to death. I had to save him. I got up and with all my power began jogging to them. I jumped on Richie’s back feeling the horrible pain from my rib when I impacted on him. I wrapped my arms around his neck trying to strangle him. I looked over his shoulder and saw Vann’s shocked face. But it was working. His grip on V’s neck became looser. I still held on tight as he let go of V and was trying to get me off him. He swing me around on his back trying to fling me off but I just held on more. He turned around and slammed his back against the wall, trying to hurt me. It work. I heard another crack from my already damaged rib. The pain registered in my head and I shrieked in pain. I fell to the floor limp. I felt my body numbing up. “You little…” He was about to kick me when Vann pushed him down. This time Richie was pinned down. Vann was strangling his neck. “This is for breaking her hand!” And he hit him hard in the face. “This is for killing Jenna!” He punched him hard in the jaw this time. “And this is for everything.” This hit knocked Richie out. Vann got up. He was breathing heavily from all the anger. He turned to me and the anger went away. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He walked slowly to me. He had a worried look but was trying to calm down. As he got closer, someone brought him to the floor. He hit his head on the ground but was able to turn around. Owen stood there behind him. He had tripped him. “What?” He exclaimed. We turned to see Luke passed out on the ground with a huge cut on his forehead. Luke was originally fighting with Owen earlier. I wonder what happened. As Vann and I were distracted, Owen was then beside me. “Lets go beautiful.” he said quietly. He then grabbed me and threw me over his shoulder. I began screaming as he ran off with me and as my rib hit his shoulder with every bump. I looked up to Vann. “Eden!” He screamed. He began to come after us when I saw Richie grab his leg and held him back. We were outside in the complete darkness. I saw the two other guys knocked out along with Tom…beside them. We got to his Thunderbird when Owen began forcefully trying to put me into his car. I screamed in defiance which only made me weaker cause of the pain I was getting. But he threw me into the passenger seat successfully. He got in and started up the car. I was trying to get out without trying to hurt myself more. But he held me down with his strong arm. “Don’t be so hasty. I will kill you soon. Don‘t worry.” He began laughing. He backed out and go onto the road. He stopped to turn on his headlights. He turned to me with a smile. “Again, don’t worry. I do keep to my promises beautiful.” I turned away quickly. In the process, something caught my eye in the middle of the road. I turned to look at it and gasped. Owen turned to see what caught my attention. Vann stood not too far away, facing us in the car. “Vann!” I screamed in excitement. I heard a loud humming noise. I turned to Owen and he was revving up the car. Getting ready to hit….“Vann! Run!” I screamed in utter terror. But he didn’t listen or he didn’t hear me. He just stood there with acrimony on his face. A corrupt smile appeared on Owens face and he put the car into drive. “Vann!” I screamed louder! He started to speed towards Vann, preparing to hit him. I had to stop him. I then tried grabbing the wheel with my good and bad hand. Owen tried shoving me back, hurting my rib in the process but I finally got my hands on the wheel. I began turning it the other way but he would turn it right back. I then put my foot on the break and started turning the wheel. The car began skidding fast. Then everything seemed to turn upside down. And it felt like everything was moving slowly. I was flipping in the car as it loss control and the car began flipping itself more and more. It finally stop as it hit a tree. I was twisted in the car as it laid upside down. Everything that was broken inside me began to throb in excruciating pain. I started to smell smoke. I began trying to get out but something was holding me back. My leg was tangled in the strap of the seat. I tried to get myself loose but it didn’t work. I started screaming as the smoke became stronger. I finally felt a hand on me. I looked up and there was Vann’s anguished face. “Baby, hurry before it explodes.”

He said anxiously. “I am stuck.” I exclaimed. He took a look at my leg. He saw it all tangled up in the seat. He brought out his knife again and tried to cut it off. I screamed as he hit his elbow on my rib. “Babe, hold on please.” I finally felt my leg was loose. He grabbed me and dragged me out of the car. I looked down and saw Owen. He was knocked out with a huge gash on the side of his head. I was then in Vann’s warm and tender arms. He began running with me in his arms as far away as possible from the car. We were finally far enough as we turned to look at the car a loud blast came from it. Car pieces where flying everywhere. Vann then held me in a protective position and kneeled to the floor trying to cover me with his body from the flying debris. A tire barely missed us. He turned when he felt that is was all over. I looked to see the burning car. The fire was slowly dissipating the car. V faced back to me. I looked at his face. We stared into each other’s eyes. His eyes seem tormented. “Baby…” He said silently. He brought is face closer to mines. I felt his breath on my face which made me shiver in excitement. It seems like forever since I’ve been this intimate with him. I felt like everything was going to be ok. “Vann.” I smiled. But the pain from the broken parts of my body kept me from doing much but sit there. His hand touched smoothly on my tender cheek. His eyes wandered around my face then to my disabled body. Which seemed to sadden him. He then focus his eyes on my lips. He stared at them with his piercing, amber eyes. His eyes becoming tenser and tenser. I then focused my eyes on his pale lips. His soft, pale lips. I wanted to touch them so much but I was too busy digging my hand into his silky hair. He then took hold of the bottom of my jaw. I looked up into his tender eyes. He leaned closer and closer till our lips caressed each other. He began kissing my lips delicately. But I kissed back more tempestuously. He then caught on and started to do the same. “I love you.” He whispered. He pulled back. “I love you, I love so much.” He continued. “A thousand times more.” I replied. “Infinity.” He replied. He helped me get up. As we stood he embraced me. I snuggled my face against his chest. “I love you!” I muttered. We then heard loud running footsteps. We both turned expecting anything. All the Mustangs came running out. “We need to go now! They are calling for back up! Run!” Ryan wailed. He began running to the woods behind us. I looked up to V. “It isn’t over?” I asked baffled. “No. It is never going to be over. Lets go.” He picked me up and began heading to the woods. As I looked back to the blazing fire, I swear, I think, I saw a figure. I just may be tired. I closed my eyes and let rest come. Because I was safe with the love of my life.

 

I kept on hearing voices rambling on. I tried to ignore it without much success. I finally let my eyes open. I found my self on the grassy ground surrounded by dark woods. “We need to take her to the hospital. She has a broken hand and rib.” I heard Vann’s voice say anxiously. “We would get caught before this is over. We can’t get the police involved just yet!” Someone yelled. I squinted my eyes for they won’t know I was awake. “But what if we just drop her off there. Don’t say our names, nothing. Say that she fell out of her balcony and I found her.” Vann’s plan seem to have caught Luke’s attention. “Well, that sounds like a plan I guess. You do that Vann, and we will continue to patrol the area. I just have this feeling that, that was only the beginning. It is not over yet.” Luke seemed to be worried. “Go take her. And be back soon. We need you.” And it seemed like Luke’s voice was fading away. I finally open my eyes. I look to see V standing there looking into the woods. I try to sit up but that wasn’t smart. My broken rib made me groan in pain. Vann turn around quickly. I leaned my self slowly to a tree. He was by my side instantly. “Sweetie…” He said softy. I smiled. “So you are taking me to the hospital.” I said as normal as I can sound. His face was still serious. “You need to really look at yourself Eden. You are a….mess.” He sounded depress when he said it. “Vann, I am all good. Don’t worry.” I started to laugh but a stabbing pain shot through me. Very stupid Eden! It seemed to give him torment every time I yelped in pain. I lifted my good hand and placed it on his cheek. “Don’t be so dramatic Vann. I am not that bad, you’ve probably seen…worse…” Chandler and Brodie came to mind. “So Brodie and Chandler is dead?” I asked grimly. He cocked his head. “No they are not. Who told you that? They weren’t there for the fight because Brodie is trying to help Chandler get through his lost. We can’t have a man fighting who is not emotionally stable.” So they are not dead. Owen was just messing with me. That son of…

“Snitch.” Vann interrupted my thoughts. “I can’t believe Tom was the one who snitched you to the Crows. But he had his death coming. Karma is a ….” Snitch! I am so going to get back at Carlie. She was the one who told Tom about me. She is the one who caused him to die. “Sweetie, I need to get you to a hospital now!” I look at him, “Fine! Let’s go!” I replied. “But tell me one thing. Is just the beginning for all of this? Is it never going to end?” He then lifted me up slowly. “Don’t worry about it Eden.” He kissed my lips tenderly and began walking through the dark mysterious woods quickly. I kept on staring at his face and admiring his strength. He is so strong being able to go through all of this without really breaking down. He seems to be stronger then the rest, even Luke. He is so amazing. Vann then look to me and gave me a weird face. “What?” He asked confused. Now he knows how I feel when he stares at me and doesn’t tell me why. I just smiled. I turn to look at what is ahead and I saw an opening coming up soon and for some reason it looked so familiar. As he got out of the woods into the dawn I realized why it was so familiar. It was the woods to the back of my house. “Is the house still unlock from the other day?” He was right, I never locked the door. “Yeah. Why?” He began walking. “I am going to use your car to get you to the hospital. I am not going to risk hurting you more by walking you there.” I guess I understand. As we got in, I took in the so fresh familiar smell. It made me feel so…at home! He placed me on the couch. “Where are you keys?” He asked in a rush. “On my dresser.” He ran upstairs. I look around my grand and beautiful home. I thought I would never see it again. But here I am. And I am very glad that I can see it again. To see my huge T.V and the family pictures around it. Pictures of my mom and my dad and so many more. Maybe after my dad gets know V after I explain all of this, maybe a picture of Vann can be put up there. I sighed. Which again, was not a very smart idea. I then heard footsteps rushing from the stairs. “You car is by the side of the house, right?” He asked as he got into view. I nodded my head. He ran out. I looked at the phone and saw it was blinking. My dad probably called, maybe a million times. I laughed mentally. I heard my car started. Vann ran in, “Okay baby lets go!” He pick me up very gently and walked slowly out of the house while shutting the door. He sat me down in the passenger seat. I turned to grab the seat belt but something loud pop. A sudden pang rushed through my body. I scream from the tormented pain. I then turned my face to Vann in agony. His face was seeming to fade away into darkness. Finally everything was black.

 

 

6. Part A *BONUS CHAPTER*

To Text or not to Text? An IM will do!

Text messaging. Men’s gift to men. I mean come one, who calls any more? Who uses Cds? It is all technology baby and this is the new millennium! So in order to get to know V, I decided it would be more appropriate to IM with my phone to his phone, while I am at home sick today. Instead of him checking on me and catching whatever I have. So today is a sick and IM day.

 

Sickie:

Hey, how is English?

V:

Sickie:

O, don’t u rub it in!

V:

lol, don’t worry. I will get u notes.

Sickie:

U betta…or else!

V:

or else wut?

Sickie:

Sick me will getcha! MUHAHAHA

V:

Something is def. wrong wit cha.

Sickie:

Wut? I cant make jokes nemore?

V:

Dat doesn’t sound lik my Eden…

Sickie:

O, so I am not funny?

Sickie:

Hello?

Sickie:

V?

Oh no! Mr. Buckley must of taken his phone. Poor V, well he deserves that for saying pretty much that I am not funny! I am too funny. I will prove it to him one day. Soon…

I got up to get a glass of water, maybe trying to make myself busy will help the time to fly.

I started by doing some extra homework that I had to do to get extra credit in my science class. Which I am not dying in. I continued on studying when I felt my phone buzz. I looked at it and saw that he IM back.

V:

Sorry. Mr. Baldy took my phone.

V:

n yea, u r not vry funny.

Sickie:

Take that back!

V:

Wut u do is funny

V:

It is not lik ur a comedian

Sickie: N u think u r funny?

V:

uh, yea

Sickie:

Nope. U r not!

V:

So all day we r goin 2 c who is da funniest?

I thought about it.

Sickie:

NO! We r goin 2 get 2 kno each other

V:

*Gulps*

Sickie:

Wut, ya scared?

V:

V is scared of nothing

Sickie:

k, so ur fav animal?

V:

Horse

Sickie:

Y?

V:

… They r strong, lik me : )

Sickie:

Strong?

V:

Yeah

Sickie:

K, fav color?

V:

Navy Blue

V:

Urs?

Sickie:

Pink n red

V:

So girlie!

Sickie:

Wuteva!

V:

Wut r u doin?

Sickie:

IMING U

V:

Hungry?

I looked at the time and it was eleven O’ clock. Lunch time was almost near, so I guess am hungry.

Sickie:

A lil

V:

Open da front door

Sickie:

huh?

V:

Just do it!

So I ran out of my bedroom down the stairs. I went to the door, I slowly open the knob, wondering what is behind it. I look up and saw V, standing there with a bag of McDonald’s food. “Brought you lunch!” He said with a hug smile on his face. I got on the porch and closed the door behind me. “Why are you here? You are missing school and I am sick! You might catch something!” I said, I began trying to push him off the porch but it was like moving a wall. “I don’t care that you are sick. Do you think I want to be at school without you? No way? Carlie might go on the prowl.” I started laughing. “Well, if you get sick, do not blame me.” I snatched the bag out of his hands and began looking in it. There I found hamburger and fries, my favorite. I sat down on the steps and began digging into the food. Vann sat beside me, I felt him staring at me as I eat. But I was too hungry to really pay attention to it. “You like?” Vann asked while I had a mouthful of food. I nodded my head in response. He grinned. “Good.” He placed his arm around me, in a protective loving way. I finally swallowed my mouthful. “So you only went to English?” He nodded his head. “It seems to me that, that is the only class we really go to. We seem to skip the rest.” He said, I laughed in agreement. “True V, very true.” I got to my fires and started engulfing them. I look over to V and felt like a pig not offering any. I put the bag near him, as a gesture to see if he wanted some. He shook his and put his hands up. “I already ate today. I just wanted to make sure you eat. That is the only way to get better!” I nodded my head to him since I couldn’t talk with all the food in my mouth.

“How are you feeling?” He asked. I shook my head back and forth. “So-so. I still feel hot and my throat still hurts very much. But…doing better then last night.” He smiled. “Last night?” He asked confused. “I was throwing up…” His eyes widen. “Good to know.” He chuckled a little.

“Hey, you asked.” I started to put everything back into the bag. “Thanks V! I really needed that and your company.” He grabbed the bag out of my hands. “Anytime princess.” He gave me a shot kiss on the forehead. He started to get up and heading to his car. “You leaving already?” I asked as I stood up. He turned around. “I got some…business to handle. I will see you tomorrow. No, I will call you later on today sweetie. Get better.” I nodded my head.

“Yeah, talk to you later!” And so he drove off.

 

My phone was ringing later on and I picked it up quickly, for I knew who it would be.

“Vann!” I said excited. I heard no response. “V?” I asked again. “Eden, I think I caught what you have.” I heard some coughing. “What did I say? Don’t blame me if you get sick. Now look, you are sick. But don’t worry. I think it is just a one day bug because I feel much better!” I heard him snicker. “Don’t rub it in my face.” I cracked up. “Sorry V, I will make sure that I will get notes for you tomorrow at school.” I heard him snicker some more. “Yeah, thank you. Is your Dad home?”

“He is in his office. Why?” I asked. “I am thinking about coming over…”

“No you are not! You need to get better not get worse. I will see you when you are much better, ok.

Rest and drink water ad get some soup. Make sure Luke takes care of you!” I heard him burst into laughter but that only made him cough more. “Will do. Love you princess.” I sighed.

“I love you too V, bye.” I hung up and began doing some more work. That V, he thinks he is Mr. Incredible. He better gets some rest or else. And I still think I am funny.

Boring as usual. We got a test next week. Bumma that you can’t get the tips dat we r getting 2day.