Chapter 31

Chapter 31: Enrique Reyes

 

In the morning things got a bit more interesting.  Max knocked on the door before he entered Alex’s room.

“Anna we need to talk.” Max said quietly motioning me to follow him down the hallway.  I nodded and followed him, Alex was right behind us.  When we entered the kitchen, everyone else was there waiting for us.  Max motioned us to sit down.

“Anna, you need to know that there is a problem,” Max said quietly.

I watched him and the others intently as he started to explain.

“This is going to be a harder fight than any of us had suspected as your father has some unexpected connections that we did not know about.  Apparently, your father has connections with an old Vampire clan.  They’re sending a few reinforcements to help him, which will complicate things.  Our sources told us they are mainly coming to witness, but if he needs help they will not hesitate to intervene,” Max stated.

“What do we do?” I whispered feeling dread settle into my belly.

“We will set a time to meet with your father and we will try to stop this,” Katie stated simply.  I looked at all of them seriously.

“He won’t stop.  He made that clear with my mother’s death.  The only thing to do is face him on my birthday.  We can only try to keep him at bay until then.  Have you found a place that we can meet him where no one else might be hurt?” I asked.  I was coming up with a plan.  I could see it forming in my head.  Alex put a hand on my shoulder looking at me questioningly.

“Yes, we have. Why Anna?  What are you thinking?” George asked.  He always seemed to know when I was hatching a plan; it was rather strange.                         

“I’m going to call him,” I stated, knowing it was the right thing to do.

“Are you out of your mind?” Alex spun me to face him, his eyes frantic.

“No, I’m not out of my mind.  If wants me then he’ll have me but on my terms, and my terms only,” I said smiling reassuringly at him.

“You can’t mean that!” Alex and Lizzy exclaimed, confusion in their eyes.

“Yes, I can.  I will tell him where and when we will meet so that everyone at school or elsewhere will be safe.  That way he can make all the plans he wants while we’re listening.  All I have to do is tell him when and where,” I looked at everyone confidently.  “Don’t worry, we’ll be ready, my birthday is only two and a half months away.  It’s June now, I think he can wait a bit longer,” I stated, trying to hide my fear, but also, strangely certain this would work.

“She’s crazy” Cassy said quietly.

I smiled at her, “Not crazy Cassy, realistic.  He’ll find me one way or another, but if I give him a specific time and place he’ll wait, he’ll plan, and he’ll get cocky.” I was sure of this.  I didn’t know why, but I was.

“Wow! She’s amazingly clever, she’s figured more out in a few minutes than we did in months,” Stephan said admiringly.

“Well, I’ve been running most of my life, so I kinda know how he thinks,” I replied grinning.

“When do you want to make the call?” asked Katie.

“Do you have an untraceable phone?” I looked at Max.

“Yes,” He pulled a phone from his pocket and tossed it to me.

“Well then, let’s get this over with,” I said confidently.

“Anna, you don’t have to do this right now,” Alex said, concerned.

“There’s no point in procrastinating Alex.  This is the only way I can protect everyone.” I looked at him squarely.  He had not seen this side of me before and I could see the turmoil in his eyes.

“Anna, please be reasonable,” Alex’s eyes were pleading.

“No, this is the way it’s going to be.  It’s got to by my way Alex.  I want to face this head on and give us some time to prepare.”

“You won’t be able to stop her Alex, her mind is made up.  She’s right though, things will work out.  I’m not exactly sure how, but they will,” Cassy said confidently, she had a sense that what I was doing was right.

I looked into Alex’s eyes asking him to trust me, and he finally gave in.

George handed me a piece of paper with the phone number I needed.  I dialled the number quickly not wanting to prolong this any longer than necessary.

“Hello?” a deep voice with a Spanish accent answered.

“Hello Enrique, this is Anastasia.”

“How did you get my number?” he asked, surprised.

“I have my ways, now listen up.  You want me. Correct?” I stated confidently.

“Yes, I want you to come home.  I want you to be with your family,” he cajoled trying to make me believe that was all he wanted.  He was extremely manipulative and shrewd .

“Let me make one thing perfectly clear.  YOU killed the only family I had.  I have no family. I have no home. YOU took that away from me. You have nothing that I want,” I said flatly.

“Then why the phone call, my daughter?” he asked sarcastically, any hint of niceness gone.

“Because I don’t want anyone to get hurt.  I will meet you, but only on my terms.  You will do what I say or I will disappear and you will never find me; not even with your vampire friends,” I stated matter of factly.

“You’re very well informed for a seventeen year old girl,” he seethed, his anger palpable through the phone.

“You have no idea.  We will meet on August eighteenth at a place of my choosing.  I know I don’t care who you bring with you, I don’t care how many weapons you bring, but if you go near the town or the school again you will never find me.  Am I Clear?”

“Quite. Where is this place you want to meet?”

“It’s a clearing about the size of the sky dome.  I’ll text you the coordinates exactly one month from now.”

“Why not give me the coordinates now?” he asked curiously.

“You need to earn that trust.  One wrong move and I’ll know about it.  By the way, I can tell you’re trying to trace this call.  Bad boy, now you won’t get the coordinates until August.  Cross me again and you’ll be sorry.” I laughed without humour.

“I will have you Anastasia, you belong to ME!” he yelled , trying to claim me.  I laughed into the phone.

“I belong to NO ONE!  You’ll find that out soon enough though.  By the way, the only time a claiming can happen is on the eighteenth of August.  If you knew anything about the legend at all you would have known that.  But I guess you don’t know your history that well after all.  Bye, Enrique,” I said sweetly, snapping the phone shut.

Only then did I take a deep breath and slide to the floor shaking.  Lizzy and Alex were immediately at my side comforting me with their presence. 

“You’ve got guts.  I’ll give you that,” Alex said shaking his head admiringly.

“She’s as stubborn as hell.  She’s worse than us at Christmas,” Lizzy laughed.

My brain was still going like a roller coaster so I got to my feet slowly and walked out to the deck.  Suddenly it dawned on me: I needed to see that prediction, I needed a copy to study.  The answer to my problem could be in the prediction itself.

“Max,” I spun around running back into the kitchen.

He looked at me bewildered.

“Is it possible to get a copy of the prediction?” I asked, breathless.

“Your father might have a copy with him. Why do you ask?” He took in my eagerness.

“I need to see it in its original form so that we can translate it literally and figuratively.  I’m not sure, but I think the answer is in the prediction itself,” I was so excited that I was almost bouncing. 

“Well, we could see what we can find.  The original version as far as I know, is still in Spain.  George, do you want to take a little vacation?” Max grinned.  George grinned back.

“Hmm, that is indeed an interesting thought.  Cassy and I haven’t been there in a while.  This could be a graduation present perhaps.”   George enjoyed a challenge that was obvious.

Cassy and George walked out of the room to start planning their trip.  Stephan watched me for a moment, his expression unreadable.

“I’ll go to your father’s room at the hotel and see what I can find.  Anna, I hope you’re right about this,” Stephan was hopeful but still cautious.

“Thank you, Stephan.” I looked at him warmly.

“Well, all we can do is get back to normal for the next little bit,” Lizzy said as she walked to the window. 

“You cause an awful lot of excitement Anna, I’m not sure I’ll make it to our birthday let alone yours.” She shook her head as she gazed across the back yard.

“You didn’t tell me your birthday was coming up,” I looked at her and then to Alex.

“It’s the day of the pool party silly.  That’s how we celebrate.” Lizzy grinned.

“Well now I need to go shopping again.” I mockingly complained.

“Oh no, you don’t!” they all said in unison.

“What do you mean?  I have to get you both a birthday present.” I looked at them in astonishment.

“No. You’re not going anywhere. You’ll just have to make do with whatever is here,” Alex said sternly, his arms crossed over his chest as he glared down at me.

“Oh really?  And you’re going to stop me?” I stated defiantly crossing my arms across my chest and glaring back at him.

“Yes I will.  You’ve done enough for one day to almost drive me over the edge,” he growled, something I had never heard before.  It made my heart race; I wasn’t scared, but I couldn’t explain the reaction I was having to his commanding tone.  But I was still angry at being told what I could and could not do.

“OOoo! Scary Alex, you can growl,” I snipped sarcastically, rolling my eyes at him.  I turned and walked out onto the deck. 

I heard the growling sound intensify, Alex was clearly annoyed.  I half smiled to myself with the revelation that I could provoke him.  Whatever, I thought. I do what I want. I shook my head and headed down the stairs to the lawn.  Just as I stepped onto the grass I found myself in the air with Alex wrapped around me.  He had come out of nowhere.  We tumbled to the ground as he crushed me to his chest for a few seconds before pinning me to the ground beneath him.  My eyes were wide with wonder and astonishment, but there was no fear.

“You were saying?” he growled menacingly into my ear.  He almost did scare me when he sounded like that.  But, although his face was stern with anger, his eyes were full of love.  I knew he wasn’t going to hurt me, ever.

“You still aren’t that scary.  You put on a good show but your eyes gave you away,” I smirked.

He leaned forward until he was just an inch from my face, his eyes taking on a cruel edge and he smirked knowingly.  Then he was tickling my side and I burst into laughter as I squirmed trying to get away from him.

“Please stop!  I give in,” I begged giggling.

“NO.”

“Please, please I’ll do whatever you want, just stop.  Please.” I was almost breathless with laughter, tears trickling from my eyes.  He looked at me and could not hide his feeling for me.

“No presents and no shopping until after this mess is over with in August,” Alex demanded seriously.

“No fair,” I complained.  With that he flipped me onto my stomach in such a swift movement I was helpless to defend myself as he got my shoes and socks off and began tickling my feet.  That sent me over the edge.  I could hardly contain myself. 

“OKAY, I PROMISE!  NOW STOP IT OR I”LL THROW YOU OFF!” I yelled squirming.

Alex flipped me back over and sat on my hips, grabbing my wrists and pinning them over my head.  He leaned in and brushed his cheek against mine as he whispered, smiling seductively, “I win.”  His lips lightly traced under my jaw and down my neck where he kissed the base of my throat and then placed his ear to my chest so that he could listen to my pounding heart.  He chuckled quietly.

“What’s so funny?” I asked breathlessly.

“It was so easy to get you to cave,” he purred.  “I guess I now have a weapon against you and now I can get you to do whatever I want, within reason of course,” he grinned.

“Hey now! Tickling is unfair.  That’s clearly taking advantage,” I pouted.

“Anna, I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you stay right here.” He looked into my eyes and smiled softly, then brushed his lips to mine.

I was amazed that he had successfully distracted me out of my bad mood.  Of course I found his kisses intoxicating, my heart was pounding and I had butterflies in my stomach.

“I hope you really mean that,” I said in an almost inaudible whisper.

Max and Katie had been watching us play fight from the patio and wisely broke out intensifying romantic spell, bringing us back to reality.

“Anna, I thought you could fight?  Are you going to just let him win?” Katie chided.

I looked over Alex’s shoulder at her and winked.   She had distracted Alex perfectly allowing me to hook my foot around his ankle, then I bent my other knee and pushed as I jerked my arms to the side.  I had unbalanced Alex enough to roll him onto his back where I then pinned him to the ground.  He looked at me startled and I giggled.  I heard Lizzy and Will snickering from the kitchen.

“Do you want to play now?” I asked in a teasing tone.

He tried to dislodge me so I shifted my weight slightly pinning him more tightly to the ground.  I couldn’t win a strength contest, they ALL had me beat there but I could use what I knew to my advantage.  He got an evil glint in his eyes as the corner of his mouth twitched upward and I knew I was in trouble.  In one fluid movement he was on his feet and I was over his shoulder as he trotted towards the trees at the back of the yard.  Will was bellowing with laughter as I realized that we were headed for the pool.

“Don’t you dare!” I said worried.

“Don’t do what?” he asked mischievously.

I locked my arms around his waist; I wasn’t going in unless he was.  He rounded the corner and in two strides we were in the air and over the deep end of the massive pool.  I closed my eyes and took a deep breath just in time as we plunged into the sparkly blue cold water.

Lizzy, Will and the others came around the corner as we surfaced.

“I will get you back for this.  You just wait.  I’ll bide my time,” I seethed at him.  He looked at me crinkling those beautiful emerald eyes and laughed heartily.  Everyone else was laughing too, and I had to join in; I could help it.  It really was funny.  The next thing I saw was Will tossing in Lizzy, who landed within inches of Alex. Then Will jumped in before he got thrown in.  Max got tossed in by Katie, and as she reached to help him out he pulled her in.  That was when the water fight started and lasted for a good hour.  Everyone was soaked and laughing.  We all needed a release from the stress of what had already happened today and what we all know was coming.

Chapter 30

Chapter 30: Jeff you’re an Idiot.

 

The next week at school went by quickly and true to Tisha’s words Jeff’s actions had made him a social leper at school.  No one from that group of friends spoke to him except Joel and Dwayne.  Friday had finally arrived and we were getting piles of home work because June was just around the corner which meant finals were only 3 weeks away.  I was walking down the hall towards my locker when Jeff approached me.

“Anna?”

“What do you want Jeff?  I have to get to class,” I said, my voice emotionless.

“Please, I’m sorry about the way I acted.  I admit that I’m jealous of you and Alex and I know you’ve made your choice.  I know now I should have spoken up a long time ago, and I won’t bother you anymore.  I know you don’t want to be friends right now, but maybe in the new school year you’ll reconsider,” he shrugged and looked at his feet. 

I felt really bad for him; he looked so dejected and really, he wasn’t a bad looking guy.  I just didn’t know him well enough to know if he was my type or not.  I looked at him as I thought about my response.  After all, I didn’t want him to get his hopes up for the wrong reasons.

“Jeff, you’re a great guy and I’m sure you’ll find a girlfriend soon.  I admit that I think you are attractive, but I just fell for a different guy.  You need to understand that he’s good to me, and so is his family.  I don’t think I could ask for more.  In fact, I think I’m lucky to have met so many wonderful people here considering that eight months ago I was a stranger.  Everyone has made me feel so welcome that I feel like I’ve lived here for years instead of only a short time,” I tried to explain to Jeff how I felt to him.

He nodded sadly, his shoulders hunched forward.

“Thanks Anna.  I’m glad you’re happy here.  I just wish...”he trailed off and dropped his head dejected as he turned and walked away.  My heart ached for his sadness, but what could I do?  He wasn’t the one for me and every fibre of my being told me that.  I shook my head slowly and turned to open my locker.

“You okay?” Lizzy asked quietly as she placed a supportive arm across my shoulders.

“Yeah, Jeff just looks so sad.  He apologized to me and I just feel so awful for him,” I looked at her sadly.

“He’ll get over his crush soon enough.  Don’t worry,” she said smiling softly.

I nodded and smiled back at Lizzy appreciative of her understanding.

“Well Anna, we better get to class.  She’s going over exam material today.”

We both dashed off to class. 

I spent the weekend with James it was a nice change; I missed his house by the water.  We spent all weekend doing yard work and getting the dock ready.  He was planning to put the dock into the water next weekend when Will and George were home.  Things had been unusually quiet lately which worried me.  We hadn’t heard anything from my father or his men in a while and I wasn’t sure what that meant.  I asked Alex and Will what they thought and they both said he was waiting, but for what we didn’t know.  We weren’t even sure if he had figured out which school I had been attending yet and I was lost in my thoughts when Christine called out of the blue.

“Anna,” she said shaken.

“Yes Christine, what’s wrong?” I asked with concern.

“I just thought I should let you know that there is a guy who is showing a picture of you to the local kids and asking questions,” she sounded worried.

“Did they ask you anything?  Did you tell them anything?” I demanded.

“No, of course I didn’t, but I think that someone else might have told them something.”

“Who?” I asked, feeling the panic rising in my stomach.

“It was Jeff.  They gave him money, Anna!  I don’t know what this is all about but these guys looked kinda creepy,” Christine reported anxiously.  I could tell by her voice that she was scared.

“Thank you Christine, I’m glad you told me,” My mind was going at a thousand miles per hour; I had to think, I had to tell the others.  I had to confront Jeff.  Damn, I was in big trouble especially if he told them who I lived with.

“Are you in trouble Anna?” Christine asked concerned breaking into my whirling thoughts.

“I don’t know, but I’m going to find out.  Do you have Jeff’s number?  I have to talk to him,” I snapped, extremely annoyed.  She gave me his number quickly and I thanked her again and hung up the phone.  I looked at James and he saw the expression in my eyes and immediately got on the phone as I dialled Jeff’s number.

Jeff picked up after one ring.

“Hello”

“Hello Jeff this is Anna.  I need to talk to you do you have a minute?” I asked mildly, keeping my budding anger at bay for the time being.

“Yeah, what do ya want?” He sounded edgy and anxious.

“I need to know who paid you for information about me?” I demanded.

“How the hell did you find out about that?” he asked shocked.

“It doesn’t matter.  Who was it?”

“Some Spanish guy, he gave me twenty bucks to tell him what school you went to.”

“Did you tell him the truth or did you lie, Jeff?  It’s important,” I asked urgently.

“I told him the truth.  Why?” he asked starting to sound worried.

“You IDIOT!  Now they can find me!  Damn it!  If you want to get yourself killed then go ahead and speak to them again.  Those guys are very bad news and you’ve just told them how to find me.  I know you’re pissed at me, but that doesn’t give you the right to tell complete strangers where to find a fellow classmate.  You are such and idiot it’s amazing you’re still walking on two legs!” I screamed at him.

“Sorry, I didn’t think it was such a big deal!” he snapped.

“Well, it is a big deal, Jeff and you could get yourself killed because of this.  Now I have to figure out how to protect a mindless fool on top of everything else.  Damn it.”

“I’m sorry Anna, I needed the money and I didn’t think I was doing anything wrong,” Jeff said shakily.

“That’s right Jeff, you didn’t think! Did you tell them anything else?” I demanded.

“No, I swear! I didn’t tell them anything else,” Jeff was starting to sound scared.

“Jeff, I would suggest that you stay away from me and never tell anyone anything about me or any other student ever again.  You just might have gotten me and everyone I love killed, you stupid idiot!” I snapped the phone shut in frustration.

I turned and focused all my energy on the dock; on moving it.  I concentrated as hard as I could, filtering the anger into energy.  As the waves of energy started to ripple off me, James stood stock still watching me.  I reached out with my mind and lifted the dock into the air, slowly moving it into position, then lowered it with perfect control.  Then I tried something different.  Usually I could move large things, but I had never tried more intricate movements. I tried to hook the dock to the platform using my mental ability and I managed to get the side closest to me attached because I could see it, but I couldn’t latch the far side. That’s when I learned that I had to be able to see what I wanted to do.  If I couldn’t see the object, I couldn’t move or manipulate it.  I walked down the wooden walkway to the dock and manually attached the far side.  I felt better after the exertion of using my gift; not really tired, but happy that I had done something productive instead of destroying things like I usually did when I was angry.  I was clearly gaining better control over this aspect of my abilities which gave me some hope despite the serious complications that had transpired.  As I had been latching the dock, James had called Stephan who arrived only minutes later.

“What’s going on?” he asked us concerned.

“Jeff went and told one of my father’s thugs where I go to school for twenty bucks!” I snapped, scowling.

“Oh, shit!” he swore rolling his eyes.

“No kidding.  The idiot is going to get himself killed, as well as me and everyone else I know because he couldn’t keep his mouth shut!” I said bitterly. I was so angry I started shaking.  I was loosing control again and I need to focus on something.  I looked around and through the red haze of my anger I focused my energy on the wood that needed to be staked.  I moved each log into place in a matter of seconds.  Stephan and James watched me carefully knowing that my anger coupled with my increasing abilities was very dangerous.

“Alex will rip him apart.  You know that Anna,” Stephan said angrily.

“Jeff is an idiot!  Alex needs to stay in control; and I need him and his sister to keep me calm.  My temper is causing me issues as you can see, and I need to be able to focus on something productive so I don’t hurt anyone.  The problem is school.  We have finals in three weeks and I need to be in class,” I replied thinking more clearly now.

“I know it will be more dangerous for me and, once my father figures out who’s helping me it’ll be dangerous for you and everyone else I care about.  This is going to be one dangerous game and I really don’t know what we can do to win it.”  I looked at each of them, my fear growing.

“We can take care of ourselves Anna.  What’s important is your safety,” Stephan said reassuringly.

“I need to get you back to our house as soon as possible.  Alex went crazy when he felt your fear and anger and he and Lizzy are heading here now.  George is already watching your father; he’ll be back at the house shortly too as we’ve managed to bug your father’s room, car and cell phone, thanks to James. We can monitor him and all of his men safely from the house.”

“James, are you going to be okay here?  My father will try to kill you if he finds out that you’ve been helping me.  Not only that but he may realize who you are to me, and if I lost you James, I don’t know what I would do,” I said looking at James, the love I felt for this man who had taken me in evident in my voice and eyes.

“I’ll be fine kid.  Stephan get her back to your place now.  That scum bag could be on his way here.  Anna, pack your stuff, move it, now.” he commanded as he gently placed his hand on my cheek, the look in his eyes tempering the gruffness of his words.  I gave him a quick hug before running into the house and gathering my things.  I was ready to go in less than ten minutes, my packing slung onto my back.

Stephan swung me on his back quickly.  He stopped and looked at James for a brief moment, a knowing look passed between them. 

“I’ll get her there safely I promise,” he said to James. 

“I’ll call you as soon as I’m at the house.  I love you,” I said looking at James, tears in my eyes.

“I love you to kid.” I could see the torment and frustration in his eyes, and I saw him grab a small remote from the hood of his truck before Stephan took off.  It felt like we were flying.  Alex was fast but this was unbelievable. Stephan moved with such speed and agility that I was breathless with the sensation of his movements.  The trees blew past us as we reached the Worthington house in minutes. He didn’t stop until he had me safely inside.

“What happened?” Alex demanded angrily as I jumped down from Stephan and ran into his protective embrace.  It was only then that I slowly started to relax as Alex’s arms tightened around me as he felt my fear.

“Your friend Jeff spilt the beans for a twenty,” Stephan said sarcastically. 

“That idiot! Is he trying to get killed?  Is he trying to get her killed?” Alex spat keeping me cocooned safely within his arms.

“Apparently he is,” Stephan replied mater of factly.

“He didn’t realize what he was doing, Alex.  Stephan, is it possible to protect that idiot?” I asked my voice trembling slightly.

“We can’t protect everyone Anna,” Lizzy said quietly as she entered the room with the others.

“I know that, but I don’t know what to do.  Exams are in less than a month.  How can I go to school and avoid my father and his men?” I asked the fear and frustration showing in my voice.

“We keep doing exactly what we’re doing,” Alex said gently as he stroked my hair, my arms, my back, trying to calm my fears.

“That’s right,” Lizzy stated.  “You keep going to school until there is no choice but for you to stay here until finals.”  She started pacing, thinking to herself.

“Are you sure that’s wise?” Max questioned with quiet concern.  Alex looked up from his ministrations.

“Our fear is that people will talk if she isn’t there and Jeff will probably go running to her father for more money.” He was angry, that was evident, and I started thinking about the situation again and how hopeless it seemed.  I started shaking in Alex’s arms, the tears about to spill over. He tightened his arms around me trying to comfort me as he could feel my anguish. 

“I don’t want anyone to get hurt because of me again, but I can’t stop that can I?” I stated heartbroken.

“Unfortunately, no you can’t,” George said quietly as Cassy squeezed my hand.

“We’ll do our best.  We can’t make you any promises though,” she said quietly.

“I know.  I’m glad I have all of you on my side, but I don’t think I could bear it if anything happened to any of you,” I chocked as the tears finally spilled over a product of my anger, fear, and frustration.

“We need to make some plans.  I’ll coordinate with James,” Max stated as he left the room.

“Are you okay?” Alex whispered into my ear.  I buried my head in his chest and managed to choke out “No.” I was so confused with anger and fear that I didn’t know what to do so I just clung to him in desperation.  He swung me up into his arms and walked outside taking me to the hidden garden; one of the few places he knew I felt safe.  He kept me cradled in his arms protectively as we sat on one of the benches.

“Anna, you know I won’t let anything happen to you.  I don’t think I could live without you now,” he confessed gazing at me lovingly.  I looked back at him, the tears still running down my face, my voice shaking with emotion.

“Alex, I don’t know what I would do if anything were to happen to you, James, Lizzy or the rest of your family.  I know how I react when someone slanders you or your family, what do you think I would do if they really tried to hurt one of you? If I got angry enough, I might kill!”

“Don’t worry about that now, whatever happens will happen.  We can only wait for your father to make a move.  Until then we have plans in place and we will do everything to keep you and James safe,” Alex said reassuringly.

I sobbed quietly as he rocked me back and forth in his arms.  I was afraid for myself, my loved ones and my friends, but at the same time I knew that I couldn’t let my fears rule me.  At that moment I decided to let all my fears go.  I vowed that I would not cry again until this was over, I would be strong, I would put up my protective walls, and I would be fearless once again.  I would deal with each situation as it evolved, but I wondered how could I keep my father away for just a few more weeks?  My thoughts swirled around like a tornado.

Alex stroked my hair until he sensed I was finished.  He kissed my forehead gently.

“Are you ready to go back inside?” he asked quietly.  I nodded my head buried it in his shoulder.  He stood up in a fluid movement without jostling me at all and walked back to the house, carrying me straight to his room.  The others watched worriedly as we passed them in the kitchen.  They knew I was scared and they weren’t sure how to comfort me, only Alex could do that now.  Alex set me down on the bed gently. 

“I’ll leave you a moment for some privacy to change while I get you something to eat.  Don’t worry, I’ll be gone less than five minutes Anna,” he said softly caressing my cheek with his hand.

“Thank you,” I choked out.

He was gone in a flash.  I went to the washroom to wash my face and got changed.  Then I went back to sit on the bed.  Alex was back with a small plate of food and a glass of water.

“Thank you Alex, I’m sorry for being a mush puddle but I needed to get that out,” I said quietly.

“You don’t have to apologise Anna, we know that you’re scared and we, no I, want to protect you.  I want to keep you safe, for myself,” Alex said looking at me lovingly.  “I’m actually afraid to let you see what a selfish creature I am.  I’m more vampire than human, you know, but my sister is the opposite.  I’m not sure what I would do if anyone were to harm you Anna.”

I raised my hand and touched his face my love for him shining in my eyes.  I leaned forward and kissed his lips gently then I settled back down on the bed and curled up falling asleep immediately.

Chapter 29

Chapter 29: Jealousy

 

“Well Anna, will you dance with me?” Will asked after we had sat down for a while.

“No, she won’t,” Alex said smugly looking at Will through narrowed eyes.

“Of course I will.” I said grabbing Will’s hand and glared up at Alex and shook my head, walking to the dance floor.  Will looked at me admiringly and burst out laughing.

“Apparently she has a mind of her own Alex,” he laughed delighted that I had said yes.

“I’m going to love razing him later,” he whispered conspiratory tone.

“Don’t you dare! Just because he reacted like that doesn’t mean that you get to torture him,” I replied narrowing my eyes at him as we began to dance.

“He’s just being selfish keeping you all to himself,” Will countered.

“Is that not in your nature? He might cut in, you know and then what are you going to do?” I asked smiling.

“You do have a point,” he mused.  “Lizzy seems to be dancing with George.”

I giggled. “You guys are impossible.  How am I ever going to keep up with you two?”

“Don’t worry, I’ll slow down every now and then,” he laughed heartily.

 

Alex was dancing close to us with Cassy, and she had a wicked grin on her face.  The two of them were obviously up to something I just wasn’t sure what.

“Can I cut in?” Alex said as winked at me.

“Sure,” Will said as he released one of my hands and spun me towards Alex.  Instead of taking my hand, Alex grabbed Will’s and started whirling Will away.  I burst out laughing with Cassy at Will’s shocked expression.  He hadn’t seen that coming, but he played it up as much as possible and the two of them put on quite a show.  Everyone was laughing as they changed their pace went into a rendition of the Tango.  Everyone applauded when they were finished.

“You two are incorrigible,” Lizzy said giggling.

“You can dress them up but you can’t take them out,” I said smiling.

“Oh really?  Is that a fact?” Alex smirked as I took a slow step back.

“We’ll just have to see about that,” he said coming towards me with his eyes narrowed.  I tried to move back but he caught me around the waist and pulled me tightly into his chest.  I couldn’t help but giggle.  He leaned down bringing his face close to mine and gently brushed his lips across my cheek to my ear.

“Do you still think that you can dress me up and not take me out?” he whispered gently nibbling at my ear.  Shivers coursed up and down my spine even though I firmly nodded an affirmative. 

He pulled me back onto the dance floor and started to whirl me around again. When the song was coming to a close he dipped me back and held me there. 

“And what about now?” he asked grinning with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“Okay ,okay, you win!  We can dress you up AND take you out, but whether or not you’ll behave is a totally different story.” I teased winking at him as I laughed.

He laughed as he stood me back up.  We started to walk over to Lizzy and the others when Jeff joined us.  He looked at me and smiled as he said my name.

“Hi Jeff, are you having fun?” I asked happily.

“Ya, it’s fun. I was wondering if you’d dance with me?” he asked blushing.

I looked at Alex and then back at Jeff. 

“Um, sure.” I said somewhat hesitantly.  Jeff beamed with joy as he took my hand and led me onto the dance floor joining Christine and Joel. 

“Are you having fun Jeff?” I asked again as I looked at him curiously.  He wasn’t wearing his usual glasses tonight and seeing his eyes for the first time was nice; he cleaned up pretty good I thought to myself.

“Sure,” he replied quietly.

Jeff didn’t ballroom dance like Alex and I so we slowly danced in a circle.

“Anna, you and Alex are together now right?” he asked nervously.

“Yes, why?” I was puzzled by his question because I thought everyone knew that we were dating.

“No reason,” he said looking away.

“Jeff, what’s wrong? You’ve been acting strange for the past couple of weeks.  Does this have anything to do with the fight you and Alex had while I was sick?” I looked at him suspiciously.

“Ya, well, some guys have all the luck!” he snapped bitterly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I demanded.  Jeff looked at me sadly.

“He’s had his eye on you since you first came here.  He made sure that you noticed him and he didn’t let anyone else have a chance.  He used his looks and his money to get to you,” he snapped glaring at Alex.  I stopped moving and stared at him in shock.

“Jeff, Lizzy and I are best friends and Alex and Will treated me like their little sister. He may have been interested in me, but he never made any advance and he never tried anything.  How dare you presume that he would be that shallow.  If you liked me, all you had to do was tell me.  You’ve hardly spoken to me all year and now you make unwarranted accusations towards Alex! You’re just being a jerk!” I pulled away from him and started to walk away.

“Anna, wait. I didn’t mean to offend you,” Jeff said as he grabbed my arm.

“Jeff, I really should go.  This is not a good idea.  I like you as a friend, but you are acting like a jealous boyfriend.  No one owns me, and I mean NO ONE.” I snapped at him with anger starting to stir within me.

“I know, Anna!” Jeff pleaded, “It’s just he and his family act as though you’re off limits to everyone but them.  They act like they own you and you don’t even see it.  It’s disturbing, Anna.  I mean think about it, when was the last time you went out with someone other than a member of that family?” he countered angrily.  I glared at Jeff with a mixture of shock and rage.

“That’s a lie.  Sure we hang out a lot, that’s my choice and I do go out with my other friends.   In fact Christine and I went out a week ago.  I didn’t realize that you were the social life police, Jeff.   You are way out of line.  Alex and Will would never treat me this way!” I snapped, my voice was getting louder the angrier I got and had started to take on a melodic tone.

“Anna, I’m not trying to be a jerk.  It’s just that I care,” Jeff said his voice dropping.  People were starting to notice our argument over the music.

“You don’t own me Jeff, and who I choose as my friends is MY business not yours.  I want to be your friend, but I really don’t think that is a possibility now.  How could you embarrass Tisha like this? God Jeff, this is no way to treat her, she deserves better!” I started to turn away again and he tightened his grip on my arm.  My head snapped back around and my eyes narrowed at him.

“Let go of me.” I snapped angrily.  I could feel a strange sensation forming in the pit of my stomach, like a building of power, a tingling that was becoming more and more intense.

“Anna, you should really give someone else a chance,” Jeff pleaded.

“Take your hands off me now!  How dare you presume that I would even consider dating you after this!” I demand wrenching my arm out of his grip.

“Anna, please,” Jeff pleaded as he grabbed my arm again.  The students that were near us were watching open mouthed as Jeff and I verbally sparred.

“Jeff, I won’t tell you again,” I said quietly seething with anger.  “Take your hands off me before I drop you where you stand.” I was shaking, I was so angry.  Will and Alex were at my side instantly. I looked at Alex.

“I need to be outside, NOW!” I demanded angrily through clenched teeth.  Alex pulled me to his chest protectively looking at Jeff in bewilderment.

“What the HELL did you do to her?” Will and Alex said in unison as they glared at Jeff.

“None of your business,” Jeff snapped back. 

I started moving towards the front door, Alex coming with me, when Lizzy grabbed my hand and steered me to the back exit.  Jeff tried to followed us.

“I think you’ve done enough damage for one night,” Alex snapped angrily blocking his way.

“You don’t own her, Alex! Now get out of my way!” he yelled, shoving Alex aside.  Alex’s eyes narrowed to slits as he quietly replied.

“Neither do you.” He placed his hand on Jeff’s shoulder and effectively held him in place as Jeff tried to pass. 

“You WILL leave her ALONE Jeff!” Alex repeated forcefully his voice sounding hypnotic with a hint of ringing ringing bells.  Jeff’s eyes glazed over at Alex’s hypnotic tone.  Alex was trying very hard to keep his voice to almost a whisper.

“Jeff, you should go back to your date.  You’ve embarrassed both her and yourself enough for one night,”

“Don’t you tell me what to do!  I won’t be told what to do the way you tell Anna what to do!!  You all act as if you own her!” Jeff spit glaring wildly at Alex and Will.

“Good lord man, I’ve never told Anna what to do.  She does what she wants to,” Alex said looking at Jeff incredulously. 

“Jeff, if you hadn’t noticed no-one tells Anna what to do.  Not even the teachers can tell her what to do.  She’s way ahead of most of the people here,” Will snapped as he clapped Alex on the shoulder and they started walking towards us at the back of the room.  For some reason I could hear every word they said as though the three of them were standing next to me.  It was the strangest thing that had happened to me thus far.  Lizzy guided me outside into the parking lot and we headed for the seclusion of the rocks and trees at the edge of the lot.  Alex was beside me by the time we got into the forest.  I focussed my energy on trying to calm down, but the anger just wouldn’t go away.  I was seething over what Jeff had said and I didn’t want my anger to get the best of me.  I simply had to find a way to calm down.  So, I tilted my head back, took a deep breath, and screamed my frustration and anger into the night.  Two small trees exploded in front of me while Alex, Lizzy and Will stood there astonished.  It seemed that my abilities were back in full force and that scared me to death; what if I had hurt someone inside?  I broke into a cold sweet and started shaking as I surveyed the remains of the obliterated trees.

“Anna, are you okay?” Alex asked quietly coming up beside me and pulling me into the safety of his strong embrace.  I just shook my head as I looked at Alex, then at Lizzy and Will, the tears starting to spill over cascading down my cheeks. 

“Alex, I-I could have hurt someone.  I-I can’t be here, I-I have to go, I-I have to leave,” I stammered as I started hyperventilating. 

“Anna, slow your breathing down or you’ll pass out,” Lizzy said in a panic stricken voice.

Everything was starting to go dark.

“Anna, it’s ok. You are safe, don’t panic - Ah crap!” I heard Alex say in a far away voice.  I came to minutes later in Alex’s arms as he carried me to the car.

“I passed out?” I asked in a shaky whisper.

“You scared us half to death, Anna.  I’ve never seen you so shaken or scared of your abilities,” Alex replied, concerned.

“I could have hurt someone, Alex,” I looked into his eyes and then put my head on his shoulder gathering comfort from his touch.

“I was so angry I had almost no control.  I’ve never felt that out of control before,” I explained.

“Anna,” Alex said seriously making me look back at his worried face “You need to realize that you did stay in control and you removed yourself from the situation, with a little bit of help from us.  What did he say that provoked you so much?” he asked.

“He accused you, Lizzy, Cassy and Will of not allowing me to have any friends other than you guys and of being controlled by you, which is not at all true.” I replied as angry tears filled my eyes.

Alex gently wiped the tears from my face with his finger.  

“It’s ok, just stay calm,” he said, then suddenly stopped and stared at me.  “Wait -You lost your temper because of that?  I wasn’t sure why you were so distressed.  I felt your anger but I couldn’t get to you fast enough.  Now I understand.” Alex started laughing and tightened his arms around me.

“Why are you laughing at me?” I demanded.

“You were defending us from Jeff’s petty jealously,” Alex laughed heartily.  I still failed to see the humour.

“What’s so funny about that?” I demanded.

“Anna, we’re so worried about protecting you that I never thought that you would choose us,” he explained.

“What do you mean?” I asked confused as I searched his eyes for answers.

“Anna, we chose you before you were born.  We chose to be your protectors.  I never thought that you would choose us, that you would want to protect us,” he shook his head incredulously.

“You know how I feel about you and the others. Why wouldn’t I protect you?” I was still confused.

“Because you don’t want to be controlled.  I wonder if...” Alex trailed off clearly deep in thought.  I was about to ask him what he was thinking about when I spotted George coming towards us.

“Hey, Alex, how’s she doing?” George called.

“She’s calmed down now!” he answered.  He turned his attention back to me.  “Do you think you can stand?”

“Yes, although I like where I am just fine, to be honest.” I admitted winking at him.  Alex eyes started twinkling with mirth as he grinned at me.

He slowly lowered me to my feet.  I held onto him for a moment to make sure I had my balance, and he put an arm around my waist.

“Are you going home or do you plan on returning to the dance?” George asked us.

“Let’s go back inside.  I would like to dance with you at least one more time,” I said quietly looking at my hands.

“Are you sure?” he asked and I nodded.  I had to prove to myself that I could be in control and I wasn’t going to allow Jeff to ruin tonight for me.

“I won’t let that jerk ruin my first date!” I said sternly as I grabbed his hand and started heading for the entrance.  George and Alex laughed, but they watched me carefully.

Alex and I walked straight to the dance floor where Lizzy and Will were dancing.  Lizzy looked at Alex and he nodded to her an unasked question.  He then drew me into his embrace and spun me around the room; I loved every minute I was in his arms.  It was so easy to move to the music guided by his sure movements.  I was completely lost in the moment; the altercation with Jeff forgotten.  We finally stopped four songs later.

“Would you like a drink?” Alex asked.

“Yes please,” I replied smiling happily.

“Ok, I’ll be right back.  Will you be okay by yourself?” he asked, the concern evident in his voice.  I nodded and smiled.

“Don’t be long.”

He hesitated and I gave him a reassuring nod as he turned to find us drinks.

“Anna, are you okay?” Christine was walking towards me.

“Yes, I’m fine. Why?” I asked.

“Well you left with the others very quickly after Jeff tried to confess his feeling for you,” she replied.  I looked at Christine seriously.

“Actually, all he did was accuse my best friend and her family of running my life and not allowing me to have any other friends,” I said disgustedly. “He really upset me, so I went outside to get some air.”

She looked at me sympathetically, “He so jealous of Alex.  But who can really blame him?  I mean, Alex is one of the hottest looking guys in school.  He’s smart, wealthy and charming - what isn’t there to like?  Then he turns his attention on one girl Jeff’s got a crush on. Honestly Anna, how did you think Jeff was going to act?” Christine said knowingly.

“Are you upset that I’m dating Alex?” I asked curiously.

“No, not at all.  He’s not my type.  Now, don’t get me wrong, he’s a good looking guy but to be honest I actually had a crush on Will for years.  But knew he was taken so I moved on.  Now, I have Joel and he’s a great guy.  We should double date sometime,” she suggested smiling.

“Sure that sounds like fun,” I said enthusiastically.

“I just want you to know that Jeff feels awful, please try to forgive him.  He can’t help it if he’s jealous of Alex,” Christine said trying to redeem her friend.

“He should have thought of that before he embarrassed himself and his date with his stupid antics.” I replied seriously.  “Is Tisha mad at me because of this?”

“No, she’s more mad at Jeff for making a fool of himself.  I guess I should have warned you but I never thought that he would try something at the Prom of all places,” she shook her head in disbelief.

“Tell Tisha I’m sorry, I didn’t know Jeff was even interested in me.  Alex is the only guy I want to be with.  He’s my boyfriend and I have no intention of changing my mind anytime soon,” I told her.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure things will be back to normal next week,” she said.

 

Alex returned with three drinks.  He offered one to Christine and she took it thanking him with a smile, then he handed one to me.  I smiled in appreciation too.

“Well folks, were going to slow it down again for the last two songs of the night, I hope you enjoyed yourselves, I’m D. J. Kane,” said the D. J.

“Christine, wanna dance?” Joel asked from behind her.

“Sure.  Thanks for the drink Alex, I’ll talk to you later Anna,” Christine took Joel’s hand and headed for the dance floor.

Alex held out his hand to me, “Shall we?”  I nodded as I put my glass on the nearest table.

Alex and I danced slowly.  I gazed into his vivid green eyes and lost myself completely in them.  As the music came to an end Alex drew me in closer.  My heart began to race as he leaned closer and I raised onto my tip toes to meet him.  His lips pressed gently against mine, and I breathed in his distinct scent.  His breath was warm and sweet on my skin and as my tongue traced his lower lip, his breathing increased.  His hand slid down to my waist pulling me even closer and my hands wrapped around his neck, my fingers curling into his thick hair.  My lips searched his for a few moments longer.  I sighed in contentment and happiness, but he gently pushed me away which made me huff in disappointment.  He grinned at me, a twinkle in his gorgeous eyes.

“I wasn’t finished yet,” I pouted.

“Well, the dance is over and it’s time to head home,” Alex replied as he tried to stifle his laugh.

“No fair.  Just when I was starting to have fun again,” I complained.

“Well, we could always pick up where we left off when we get home,” He suggested with a glint in his eyes.  I smiled and nodded.

He took my hand and we walked out to the car.  Lizzy and Will were waiting for us.

“Well, what did you think of your first date, other than the one moderate set back?” Lizzy asked.

“It was fantastic,” I beamed at her. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Jeff watching Lizzy and I.  He looked furious and Tisha was glaring at him. 

“Lizzy, I think we’re going to have a problem.  We should leave now,” I said warily.

“What do you mean?” she asked looking at me curiously.

“Jeff is watching us.  Please, let’s just go before he does anything stupid,” she could see I was worried.

Will was starting the car as Alex opened the passenger door for his sister and then the back door for me and helped us to get in.

“Don’t worry, he won’t do anything.  There are too many people around,” Will said. 

I looked at him suspiciously, “How do you know that?”

“Because I can hear what they’re saying.  He wants to come over believe me, but Tisha is furious and wants to go home,” Will told us looking meaningfully at me.

“Can I borrow your cell?” I asked Alex.  He handed it to me and I dialed Christine’s number quickly.

“Hi Christine, its Anna,” I spoke into the receiver.

“What’s wrong Anna?” she asked.

“Are you still here at the school?” I asked.

“Yes, we were just about to leave, why?  Is something wrong?” she sounded worried.

“Tisha and Jeff are fighting.  I don’t want to interfere with your plans, but could you check on her and see if she needs a ride home?  I’m worried about her,” I told her honestly.

“Sure.  That’s a good idea.  I’ll call you back in a minute, is this your cell?” she asked.

“No it’s Alex’s.  Do you need the number?” I asked.

“Yes, just hang on I need to grab a pen. Ok shoot.”

“705-555-0011 We’ll wait in the lot to make sure she’s ok.  I just don’t want to go near Jeff right now.”

“I’ll call you back in a minute,” she said and hung up the phone.

           We watched as a blue Toyota pulled up in front of Jeff’s car.  Christine got out of the car and walked over to Tisha.  I watched them exchange a few words and then Christine and Tisha walked back to the Toyota.  I breathed a sigh of relief knowing Tisha would be okay.  I didn’t want her to get hurt because of Jeff’s rage.

Alex’s phone rang.

“Hello” I said.

“Hey, I’ve got Tisha with me and she wants to talk to you,” Christine said.

“Okay,” I replied as I heard Christine hand the phone to Tisha.

“Anna, thanks.  He was getting pretty ridiculous.  I’m sorry if he ruined your night.  He’s been a complete dolt,” Tisha said clearly upset.

“I’m more worried about you, Tisha.  His jealousy has pretty much wrecked your night and I feel awful about that,” I said honestly.

“Don’t worry about me.  Jeff’s going to be a leper at school for the rest of the year because of this and he knows it.  I probably won’t ever talk to him again either,” she said angrily.

“Get home safely Tisha.  I’ll see you next week,” I told her.

“You too,” she replied.                      

I was thankful that she was safe.  Jeff could go home and deal with his anger without involving Tisha.  I was worried that she would have gotten hurt being in the car with him.  Jeff’s anger was very obvious as he got into his car and slammed the door shut.  Joel had already left the parking lot with the girls and we were just about to leave as well.  Will waited until Jeff had pealed out of the parking lot in a show of squealing tires and flying gravel before we headed for home.