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Red Woods [chapter 1 - 9]
May. 5th, 2013 05:50 pm
Chapter 1
Where am I? I feel the earth beneath me in a firm and moist. The air carried the smell of the forest. Forest? How? Why am I in the woods? Why do I feel so dizzy? My eyes were opened. Yes, I lay on the ground. Barely see the sky. It was dark. Soon would be dark. I tried to stand. Slowly I am gripped in the earth, but when I tried to stand I was dizzy again and found myself in the dust. I touched my head and felt something wet and sticky. I looked at my hand. Blood. Blood? Oh yeah! I remember. I was running and trip over a branch. I hit my head. Why I was running? I don’t know. I remember being in school. On the parking. Something frightened me and I ran. My house is on the other side of the park, at the beginning of the forest. I had to wait for my brother Hunter, but he was late. Thus I was there.
Sticky darkness crept among the trees. It’s become cold and was going to rain. I didn’t know this place. We were new in town. I was scared and confused. I crept up to a large tree. Oak, maybe. It became even colder, and I was wearing jeans, shirt and thin jacket. I turned into a ball. I was tired and hungry. I could not cry. I had no strength. My eyes began to close. I fell asleep. The darkness that surrounds me crept into my mind.
I relaxed and silent up there… to that tree. I made a cold autumn day than to slip into my body and my soul. I felt so helpless and alone… For a moment I felt something warm and somewhat soft. Something strange. Then… nothing. Only deep and impenetrable darkness. I thought: ‘Is this my end? Will I die?’ I prayed for someone to find me. I wanted someone to save me. But I could not believe someone cares. Here… Hunter is probably still with his girlfriend, Molly. My younger sister Megan was too… “good” to speak or go out with me. I think that she thought that I am loser. Well, yes! However, she is 15 years old teen. And my parents… My father, Dean Reed, works to late. I do not know what exactly he was doing. Perhaps there is a company that dealt with different things. I’m not interested. My mother, Sarah, was a reporter at a local newspaper.
Everyone is so busy with your life that hardly will notice the lack of an outsider. I would not say that I am exactly that, but I’m not a very social person. And yet… I felt something… somebody… But I was so tired that I had not the strength to open my eyes. I was relaxed in this heat. Heat? In this cold day? Strange… very strange…
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Chapter 2
I woke up at home. In my bed. It was warm and soothing. I looked out the window and saw that it was still dark. Then I looked at the electronic clock on the nightstand. 4:17 am. Everyone was asleep. I got out of the bed and saw the clothes I had in the woods. I raised my shirt and pressed it to my face. It smells different. With a sharp but enticing smell. It was not mine. I still had headaches. I put clothes on the floor again. I left the room. I got in the kitchen because I was very hungry. In the fridge had a plate of food. It was obvious for me. I took it and stuck it in the microwave. I waited about 2 minutes. The bell rang. I took the plate and put it on the kitchen counter. There were lighted only a small lamp that illuminated a part of the countertop and kitchen. I pulled a chair and sat down. I started to eat.
I do not hear the footsteps. For this I almost choked when my brother came. He poured a glass of orange juice and sat down opposite me. I was angry at him. All this happened due to his fault.
-Are you okay, sis? You frighten us.
-Yeah right!
-What do you mean, Drea?
-What? Let’s see… You had to collect me from the parking lot.
In my eyes there was something… Anger? I don’t know. But I knew he loved me. He felt guilty and I see it. Always hold nice when screw up something.
-Look… I’m sorry. They slowed me down.
-Of course. No doubt. You do not care for me especially. So everything is more urgent than me. I understand you.
I was not hungry anymore. I am throwing the remnants and washed the dish. I went to the stairs, but I stopped for a moment.
-Hunter?
-What is it, baby?
-How I got back home?
-One boy led you. Well, he was more like a man. He was found you in unconscious.
I climb the stairs and went into my room. Again I looked at my clothes. So is his smell there? Interesting… I really wanted to meet the man who saved me. Who was he? Why was there? How did he know where to get me back? I had many questions… One of which is why my brother lied to me, that he do not know who the man was? I mean… the boy. My brother had a squealer. Well, he does not know that I know about it.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 3 The alarm never rang. When my younger sister, Megan burst into my room to wake me up, I saw that it is almost noon. More precisely 11:45. I groaned and got out of the bed. She watched me. My answer to her eyes. She didn’t move from her post by the door. I entered in the small bathroom. I took a shower, washed my teeth and I felt better. I went back into the room, and Megan was still there. This time she was sitting on the bed. -Well? What do you want? – I asked sharply. I know that this is not very nice of me speaking to my sister in that way, but she never had a similar concern. I have been just suspicious. -Yesterday you worried us all. – She said with her melodious voice. -Really? And ask me? It is not fun to lay in unconscious in the middle of the woods. She jumped out of bed visibly annoys by my words. -I am here to see, but you keep nasty, Drea. -Well, I’m not used in your care. I started to dress. Outside it looked hot, but I did not want to risk. Therefore put on a thin black blouse and jeans. My feet were bare. Indeed, for a moment I felt guilty about the way I talked to Megan. For this I apologized. She accepted my apology and both went down in the kitchen. Besides my family and there was someone else. Megan and I went with them. Mom looked at me; she rose from her chair and hugged me. She looked really worried. My brother also stood, but he do not daring to embrace me. Just saying: -Are you still angry with me, baby? -I don’t know. But I hope that you will not do it again. -I promise. Honestly. – He smiled, feeling relieved. -Well… I… I want to ask… How do I end up here? – I feel stupid for asking that question where, but I think it was logical to want to know. Nobody answers. Unknown man smiled and stood up. He proceeds to me. My heart almost stopped. He was so… unnatural beauty. There was something different in his broadcasting. -I am guilty of this. – He extended his hand to me. – My name is Kahlan Stevens. I am a friend of your brother. Pleased to meet you when you’re awake. Slightly and insecure I grabbed his hand. Then I looked at my brother. Just as I expected… He is a bad liar. But if this man… Kahlan… returned me at home, this means that unusual flavor which was permeated in my clothes… was his. Interesting, huh? When he smiled at me, I really troubled. It seemed to me that he knows that I find him fascinating. Therefore I hurried to get out of there. I justified that I should go to the bookstore, because I need books and pencils. Nobody objected. I went in my room. I put on my socks and shoes and grabbed my purse, along with some money. I ran downstairs and came to the door when my dad stopped me. He told me that it is better not to go alone. He told me that Kahlan will go to town and can take me. I wanted to refuse. Almost I did it, but… The feeling was quite strong. I was worried. However, I got in his car. Drea POV’s Indeed, it was cold outside. But in the car was hot as hell. My heart was beating like crazy. I don’t know. I feel discomfort. Although I always feel uncomfortable in the company of the boys, especially if they are beautiful. For this I looked out the window and said nothing. This is the end of my try to escape. And yet… He saved me. For this… -Well, I… -Hmm? Definitely he pretended that he does not notice my embarrassment. -Thanks for the help. -No problem. But why were you there, baby? – His voice was so manly and masterful… a particularly attractive way. -In principle I should not be in the woods, but… -But? -My brother never came to pick me up, and there was something… I was scared and started to run. I tripped and… This is basically. -I understand. Next time… just call me and I’ll come. – He smiled and I almost stopped breathing. Damn! I do not know why this man makes me feel that way. He makes me nervous and I did not understand why. But why he suggested me to take me home from school? Strange… Nobody was so kind to me. I mean nobody outside my family. Only this one. For some reason, he was nice to me. Suddenly Kahlan got serious and stopped the car. I thought I said or did something wrong. But quickly realized that it is not like that. In front of us happened something. There were a barricade and police cars. There was an ambulance. Kahlan took his seat belt and got out. Quickly I followed him. Very quietly, he told me to stand beside him. It was not necessary to repeat. We got closer to the center of the event. Someone was hurt. No… He was dead. The cops told us not to get closer. We do not say anything. I saw that my mother is there. She does not look at me, she looked at my… companion. He nodded. Like they said something just by sight. Then he grabbed my hand and gently led me back to the car. I tried to escape but he was quite strong. No sense to fight. But I definitely was angry. Once we reached the car, Kahlan let me go. I do not get in the car. I grabbed my bag and went in the opposite direction. I mean at home. I was trembling with anger. What is that, damn it? Why everyone treats me like that? It sucks. -Wait! Drea, wait! – He screamed. I heard his footsteps behind me. He grabbed my arm and forced me to stop. -What? Let me go! – I cried, but not particularly strong, because my throat had shrunk by anger. -Come and get into the car. You went to the bookstore, right? -It’s not true. This was just an excuse to get out. -What? -Let us be clear. You make me nervous. I am grateful to you for helping me, but for me you are a stranger. So stop commanded me. Find something else to do. I think that I caught him off guard. For this I was able to escape from his grip. I kept walking down the street when I was almost under the wheels of a motorcycle. The whistling heard the tires pretty hard. I was scared to death. I sat on the ground trembling. The driver was not injured. He was angry and came up to me, but when he looks at me… He calms down. I looked at him. He was tall with blond hair and blue eyes. He squatted beside me. -Are you okay? I did not see you. You jump so… suddenly. I nodded. -I’m fine. And you? -No problem. I’m Devlin. You? -Drea Reed. – I grabbed his arm when I pass it. He radiated intense heat. Handsome. Then Kahlan comes. He was not only worried, but somehow… the defensive. -Drea… I looked at him. Then Devlin looked at him in the eyes. They look each other challenging and looked as if they studied each other. Presented to each other, then Kahlan helped me to stand up. He held me, because I still trembling because the little… incident. I rode in his car and he drove off towards the town. I think he was afraid. I noticed that his hands trembled with… anger. I did not ask what it is. Just stay quietly. Drea POV’s The car stopped at a bookstore. I got out and walked inside… alone. In fact, I don't look for anything specific. I just walk around between the shelves. From time to time I was looking through the window. Yeah… My guard was there… Continually from his post. He makes me feel stupid. The seller watching me. He was a man about 40 years, but his hair was already graying. I was not surprised by that he stared me. Always is like that when you are new. Although it is annoying and somewhat stupid. I am browsing through a book and remembered the incident. Not for me, and for this with the dead man. I was curious. But if I ask a friend of my brother, he is hardly going to tell me. My life is totally wrong. While I was back to the door, I heard the bell above the door rang. I did not turn, because I thought that it is Kahlan. Well, he was not. I heard a strange voice that spoke to the man behind the counter. -Hi, Pierce! – Said the newcomer. Pierce is the name of the seller. A man who had entered was a cop. I remained in my place, pretending to read. The truth is that I was trying to hear the conversation. -What’s happening, Harry? The police cars flying like crazy down the street. -New dead body. It looks like an attack by wild animals, but… -You don’t think so… -Exactly. I have not seen an animal that can do similar damages. And the location… It was not in the woods but on the street. Strange, don’t you think? The seller does not respond. Simply submit something to the cop and he went out. Damn! Murder? Here? Well, this is something interesting. Instinctively I looked through the window. Outside Kahlan spoke with a woman. I have never seen her better, but I think that she is beautiful. She revolved around him. She coquet and smiling. It was annoying. I do not know why I am so annoyed by this. That’s why I got the brilliant idea to get out of there unnoticed. That’s why I asked the man behind the counter where the toilet is. He pointed out a side door. I nodded and crossed the distance between me and the door. I went inside. I must admit, there was cleaner that I expected. Luckily for me there was a window. I smiled. Kahlan POV’s I lean on the side door of the car while listening to Jennifer’s bullshit. She was part of a pack… like me. We were many in this town, although people did not know. She was younger than me, but she was trying to impose her will. It was stupid on her side to think that she can command me. She has always revolved around me. I knew that she likes me, but the feelings were not shared. I do not stop to watch the window. I kept an eye on the girl. The reason was not only the request of her family. I found her helpless in the woods. She lay there among the leaves. I could smell her blood. Actually this was the reason which drew me there. My hunger was strong, but when I approached her… I couldn’t hurt her. And her smell was familiar to me… friendly, although slightly different. She looked so helpless. I saved her. Jennifer noticed that I do not hear her and she was angry. But then I noticed something. Or rather lack of it. I leaved Jennifer there and walked into the bookstore. -Hi, Pierce! Where’s the girl? -She is in the toilet. I sniff the air and realized that she was not there. Damn! She was escaped while I distracted by Jennifer. I ran outside and walked around the bookstore. As I expected… the window was open. I sniff the air again to smell her and I did, although the city is more difficult because of the exhaust gases from cars. I followed the smell to the beginning of the park. I realized that she was in the woods. But why? Why she was back there? Are not she afraid? I do not waste my time to thinking about possible caused, just went after her. Drea POV’s This time I walked slowly, because I do not want to suffer again. The forest is quite calm, although I had a feeling that thousands of eyes watching me. However, I did not waver. Proceed slowly. I heard a pop and felt dry twigs on the ground. I felt the leaves. The scent of the woods filled my lungs. I felt a strange calm. I do not know how long I walked, but I was tired and sat down to rest under a tree. I leaned back in the massive trunk. The air was cold. It was already afternoon and soon probably would be dark. We were new in the town, but Megan and Hunter already had friends. Mom and Dad worked constantly and I was left alone. My only variation was in school, but now they let us, because there were any damage or power drains. Maybe both. For this I was free and bored. Well, I could walk through the forest, if do not come across any wild beast. I was standing there when a noise caught my attention. I rose and started looking. Maybe it was the wind? I sure hope so because last time when something frightened me so I found myself in quite a disadvantage. I was about to get up when I saw it. A huge wolf. His fur was gray-brown, and his eyes – like gold. He stood a few meters from me. Watching me. I was… shocked, scared and somewhat excited. I was wondering… Will he hurt me? Was he killed the man? I thought… ‘RUN!’ But my body did not move. Usually, if you run it gets worse. At least those working with the dogs. My heart was beating very fast. I could barely breathe. I froze in place when the animal began to close. I could not move. I closed my eyes and prayed to just leave. Only he did not. I felt his breath on my face. His wet nose touched my cheek. I felt his fur. It was hard and rough, but gentle and kind in their own way. This beast is not afraid of me. I opened my eyes. The wolf behaved more like a dog. Despite my fear, I felt a strong need to touch him. I could not refrain. I stroked it. He was not pulled. I felt safe. But how can I feel safe in the company of the wild beast?
Chapter 4
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Chapter 6
Drea POV’s
I went home shortly before dawn to be completely impenetrable. All I smelled a wolf, I like it. It was sort of… primary. And now I had a friend who did not think that I am crazy. I had to bathe before dinner. The water affects me quite well. Of course, whole family discussed the incident. My mother was very excited and anxious. Dad, as is always listening to her carefully. Megan was scattered and send messages from her phone. My brother did the same. I just sat and listened to them. They do not mind me. And it was good for me. Well, at least until my brother said something that made everybody look at me.
-Drea?
-What?
-Kahlan call.
-Really? Why?
-He said that you ran away. And mentioned something about a motorcycle accident.
-Nothing serious, bro! – I refer to everyone there. – Honestly. Everything is fine.
-Motorcycle? – Megan seemed intrigued. – Maya told me that in the city has some very cool rider. With blond hair and…
-Blue eyes? –I finished her sentence.
-Have you seen him?
-Yeah. His name is Devlin. I had a problem with him, but he looks nice guy.
-Ok, ok! – Our brother interrupted us. – I want from you to apologize to Kahlan. He is my friend and he is worried about you.
I don’t know why he so much wanted to apologize, but maybe there was some reason for it. For this reason I agreed to do it. Therefore I asked my brother to give me the phone number of his friend.
&
I lie in my bed and keep my phone. Finally, I just dialed the number. Wait a few calls. I hesitate and I was ready to close when I heard his voice.
‘Hello?’
-Hey! It’s Drea.
‘Drea? Where were you been?’
Although he asked this question, there was something strange in his voice. As if he knew something.
-In the woods. My brother urged to call you.
‘Don’t do it if you don’t want.’
-I… I am not accustomed to people are nice to me. And you’re strange.
‘What do you mean? How… strange?’
-Let’s talk another time. I’m tired. Today there were things that happened.
‘Really? I hope to tell me.’
-Okay. If you want. But why you want to be friend with me? Because Hunter?
‘No. You’re interesting. Now go to sleep. We’ll talk tomorrow.’
-Ok. Bye!
Wait a minute! We have not a date, right? No, no… Just a friendly date. And I had not many friends. Actually none. If we do not count the wolf, of course.
Kahlan POV’s
I found her. She stood alone in the middle of the woods. She was frightened when she saw me. But there was something else. I could hear her heart beating so fast that if it was bird would fly away. I began to converge. Slowly, so as not to scare her more. I approached. I couldn’t resist. I behaved as if I am petting. I hugged her. I touched her face and she hugged me. I felt good. Even don’t know why. Ever since I saw her for the first time I feel like that. And when I saw her on the street with… him. I felt my blood boil. I was afraid not to hurt her. Otherwise I would kill him.
By the end of the day I was with her. She was so sweet and gentle with me. Or rather a wolf. And while I was human… Perhaps she had the right to be angry. She probably was confused by my behavior. Probably for this… her escape.
When I got home… Her smell was on my body. I want to keep it. But I couldn’t. I took a shower. I made my dinner and I eat it. I was alone. I do not go with my friends from the pack. I had already spent the day out in the woods. I wondered what to do when the phone rang. It was the home of the Reed family. I thought it was Hunter. I do not want to answer, but I did it. I was surprised when I heard the voice of Drea. My heart beating so fast as when I run into the woods. I had to put considerable effort not to betray myself. She wanted to apologize. It was nice to hear her voice. Not only that. We even arranged a meeting.
I don’t know why I am so excited. We do not even know well. And if she understand what I am, she really… freaked out or will hate me. Furthermore, she is not part of the pack. She is not even like us. But I cannot do anything. I am powerless against this haunting feeling. And this intruder… The thought that he was close to her… I am going mad. And the reason is not just that he wants my girl. He taught in my territory. This will not happen.
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Chapter 7
Drea POV’s
I was awakened by gunshots. My heart pounding in my chest. My head was pulsating. I sat terrified in the bed, when Megan came over to my room and cuddle with me. She was trembling just like me.
-What is this, damn? – I said.
Hunter came to us. He was in his pajamas. Obviously, he was waking up soon like us. He sat on the edge of the bed.
-Are you okay? – He asked. – These idiots started early.
-What? Why shoot? By whom?
-I don’t know. They said that would make poses. Because of the incident.
-They will kill someone? – Megan asked. – Are they the wolves?
At the mention of wolves, my blood froze. I could not imagine how will killed my sweet wolf that I saw in the woods. This is a terrible thought.
-I don’t think that they are wolves.
-Really? – My brother asked.
-Yes. A veterinarian or specialist said that it was not the wolf’s job. Maybe jackals or something bigger, but not wolves. Although for me is like. – Maybe I sounded more enthusiastic that it’s necessary.
-And mom and dad?
-Gone. As usual… - He said wearily. – Well? Any plans for today?
-I will go with Maya and others. We can see the cool rider? – Megan said.
-How about you, Drea?
-Well,… I promised to go with your friend… Kahlan.
Both looked at me puzzled. I away my eyes because their eyes troubled me. They were not accustomed to hear this from me. Well, I was not accustomed to say it. My brother looked at me with that look that says: ‘If you touch my sister I will kill you!’ And Megan – she is excited. Even muttered something like: ‘Finally you get normal!’ Such a fuss over a friendly meeting. Maybe was an error that I told them.
*
Since I had not chosen the right time for so-called meeting, I had to wait for Kahlan to come. I was nervous. He makes me feel it. Excites me in some way. I stayed alone at lunch because Hunter and Megan came out as always. I worried that I was rude last day. But someone knock on the door. I went and opened. Kahlan stood in front me. I smiled and I asked him to come in. It seemed so unreal that I could hardly believe it happened.
I followed him into the living room.
-Well? What’s so interesting happened?
-Well, I… It’s crazy… even for me. Will you sit? Something to drink?
-Don’t worry, baby.
Then I saw something in his eyes. They… they… were not human’s eyes. I remember that I lost consciousness. Complete darkness. A silence that can make anyone crazy. I struggled, but if I were tied. Suddenly I heard something from somewhere. Hum. Some repeating: ‘You’re going to make it, Drea!’ And then I opened my eyes… And I was definitely not in my house.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapter 8 I don’t remember what happened. I rubbed my eyes and opened them. Kahlan stood constantly around me. He looked very worried. I wanted to ask him what was going on but I could not. My mouth was dry. I was thirsty. He handed me a glass of water. I drank it in one go. I felt much better. I looked around. I was in something like clinic. I was surprised by this. -Where am I? Why am I here? -Calm down. You just fainted. – He said. I wonder why I did not believe him. He hides something from me. I would ask him, but then came in a man. He was skinny and wore glasses. Chapter 7 Drea POV’s I was awakened by gunshots. My heart pounding in my chest. My head was pulsating. I sat terrified in the bed, when Megan came over to my room and cuddle with me. She was trembling just like me. -What is this, damn? – I said. Hunter came to us. He was in his pajamas. Obviously, he was waking up soon like us. He sat on the edge of the bed. -Are you okay? – He asked. – These idiots started early. -What? Why shoot? By whom? -I don’t know. They said that would make poses. Because of the incident. -They will kill someone? – Megan asked. – Are they the wolves? At the mention of wolves, my blood froze. I could not imagine how will killed my sweet wolf that I saw in the woods. This is a terrible thought. -I don’t think that they are wolves. -Really? – My brother asked. -Yes. A veterinarian or specialist said that it was not the wolf’s job. Maybe jackals or something bigger, but not wolves. Although for me is like. – Maybe I sounded more enthusiastic that it’s necessary. -And mom and dad? -Gone. As usual… - He said wearily. – Well? Any plans for today? -I will go with Maya and others. We can see the cool rider? – Megan said. -How about you, Drea? -Well,… I promised to go with your friend… Kahlan. Both looked at me puzzled. I away my eyes because their eyes troubled me. They were not accustomed to hear this from me. Well, I was not accustomed to say it. My brother looked at me with that look that says: ‘If you touch my sister I will kill you!’ And Megan – she is excited. Even muttered something like: ‘Finally you get normal!’ Such a fuss over a friendly meeting. Maybe was an error that I told them. * Since I had not chosen the right time for so-called meeting, I had to wait for Kahlan to come. I was nervous. He makes me feel it. Excites me in some way. I stayed alone at lunch because Hunter and Megan came out as always. I worried that I was rude last day. But someone knock on the door. I went and opened. Kahlan stood in front me. I smiled and I asked him to come in. It seemed so unreal that I could hardly believe it happened. I followed him into the living room. -Well? What’s so interesting happened? -Well, I… It’s crazy… even for me. Will you sit? Something to drink? -Don’t worry, baby. Then I saw something in his eyes. They… they… were not human’s eyes. I remember that I lost consciousness. Complete darkness. A silence that can make anyone crazy. I struggled, but if I were tied. Suddenly I heard something from somewhere. Hum. Some repeating: ‘You’re going to make it, Drea!’ And then I opened my eyes… And I was definitely not in my house. He had gray hair and a straight nose. He was tall and wore a white coat and stethoscope. He had a nice smile. And yet… There was the same mysterious aura like Kahlan. He smiled at me. -Glad you’re feeling better. Kahlan was very scared. How do you feel, Drea Reed? -Good. I guess I’m overtired. Recently, I witnessed a lot of things. Not to mention the posse, which are organized… I was awakened by gunfire. I saw that they were worried about that. I tried to get up but Kahlan’s hand stopped me. I looked at him and narrowed my eyes. I pushed his hand and stood up. -Doctor? Can I go? Now I’m okay. -Well… - He hesitated. – Sorry! I forgot to introduce myself. I’m Leon Daniels. Nice to meet you. He stretched his weak bony hand that had more power than it seems. I smiled at him. He seemed a nice guy. I was about to say something when someone enters. Because the clinic was not very large the visitor comes to us in the office. I was surprised when it turned out that boy… Devlin. He was surprised to see me, but he smiled. -However, we meet in the strangest places. Drea,… right? -Yeah, we are met. -Are you all right? You look pale. – He asked. -Yes. I need a break. How about you? You got in the news. -Really? – He raised his eyebrows and a slight smile playing on his lips. -Yeah. My sister and her friends think that you’re cool. He laughed. He has a nice and infectious smile. And I smiled too. But I don’t think that Kahlan like this situation. And the doctor hopping from foot to foot. -What do you think, Drea? Am I cool? -I don’t know. I’m not that shallow. -Amazing escape response. He tried to get closer, but Kahlan stood near me. Like he said it was not safe for him to get close to me. This obsession with its proprietary annoyed me. I do not even know me well enough, and now he commanded me like we are very close. -What brings you here? Are you okay? – I asked with genuine concern. -Nothing special. Do the service of Mrs. Peterson. She said she needed aspirin. -And you, as a good Samaritan came to get some for her… -Mock me? – He asked jokingly. -How could I? And we both laughed. Maybe it would be good to have some friends here. But that does not appeal to Kahlan. His face was marked that it is not tolerated. Finally he just grabbed my hand and forced me out of there. The doctor had to shouted instructions after us. So I was already in the car. I was really embarrassed by his actions. How are you allowed to behave this way? I knew he was a friend of my brother, but it gave him no right to dispose of. & We were silent throughout. At least until we reached the forest and there Kahlan did not stop the car. He got out of the car and walked away. His gait betrayed him. He was tense and angry. I did not want to stand in front of him now. And he expressly forbade me to get off the car. Not that I was going to hear it… Kahlan POV’s I cannot! Am I lost my mind? What’s wrong with me? I could not stand this idiot. Let stand while he smiles to her and want to be close to her blatantly in front of me… I wanted to rip his head. Though Drea was good to have friends. Always so lonely, my heart breaks. But that does not change the fact, that this wolf invaded my territory and wants to charm my girl. Well, unofficially. She does not know… Damn! I knew that I had no right to be jealous. We were not a couple. Even if we were not and just friends. I don’t know what our relationship is, but I could not even think that someone else can have her. Selfish, I know it. I can’t get over this feeling, no matter how hard I want it. Well, yes. I saw her when she arrived here. She was dark and lonely. Even her family ignores her. Well, maybe without Hunter. He cared about her. She had dark hair. Dark as night. And now she seemed different. Her hair was lighter and even her eyes were a lighter color. I remembered that sometimes she wears contact lenses. Not that she needs. I think Drea just wanted to not be herself. I understand how she feels. Maybe it was one of the things that attracted me in her. I had to get out of the damn car. I can’t breathe. I needed to stretch my legs. Actually I needed to run while stuck without power. To fight and kill… But I could not. I did not want her to see me like that. She would be terrified, but I did not want to lose her. Especially now, when at least I stand near her, without having to look at her from a distance. I told her to wait for me in the car. Of course, I knew she would not listen to me. And I was right. She got out and took a few tentative steps in my direction. Then she stopped. Hesitating. She was afraid. I sniffed her frustration. I felt her own fragrance that drives me crazy. She smelled of wild flowers and on a summer forest. I loved that smell. I had to make great efforts to control myself in her presence. She dared to approach. I could hear her heart beating. Thump… thump… thump… Drea POV’s I moved. Kahlan was still standing with his back to me, but now his stand was more calm and relaxed. I do not understand. I guess there’s a reason that he don’t want to share. I know from experience how annoying was to ask you questions when you don’t want to speak. -Are you all right? – I asked timidly, and trying not to get too. -Yes. -I know you told me to sit in the car, but… It’s made me nervous. He turned again, and I noticed a strange shadow that lay behind his eyes. Like is hiding someone other that himself. It was interesting. Unconsciously I looked into his eyes, trying to find the mysterious presence. I guess that troubled him a little. -Is everything okay, Drea? You looked at me strangely. -Sorry. I thought that… Forget it. It does not matter. -You can tell me. -No. You’ll think I’m crazy. Come on. Then we heard steps that led us both to listen carefully. From the bushes came a few men. They were kind of psychopaths. -Not going anywhere! – Said one of them with a gloating smile. Kahlan stood in front of me, almost obscuring the whole picture. I caught a… growling. It came from him. His muscles tensed. Shudder. I do not even listen to what lines they exchanged. My heart was beating fast with fear. No doubt these men were going to hurt us. -What’s wrong, wolf? Don’t let us play? Come on. Share this human with us. She seems… juicy. He said it seemed to discuss food and not human. Simmer not run. -If you get close to her, I’ll kill you, you scum! -Oh! – Laughed the other one. – Is that your… bitch? How nice. We would not be very rude to her. Just have some fun. I wanted to scream. Panting. It looks that they are making fun of me while they brought me to the edge of terror. Fucking bastards! I gripped in Kahlan’s shirt and pressed my forehead against his back. I did not want to watch them. I did not. And if my fear fueled the anger of man to me. Some strange energy emanating from his body. Magical energy. Strong and powerful. -It’s over for you! – Kahlan growled. It was not a human voice. When I moved I saw that his eyes are now on the amber color. There was a look of a predator. He ordered me to get out of there. He pushed me gently. I backed and hid behind a tree, but did not escape. Whatever happens there, I needed to know. And the secret was spectacular. I heard that Kahlan mentioned something about the murders. Looks like it was not a single case. But the way he spoke… Definitely not that of a human. They hardly pay attention that I watch them. They were engrossed in what was about to happen. I could not believe to my eyes when for a moment at the people there stood beasts. Jackals. And against them… Oh my God! I could not go wrong. My wolf. No! Kahlan is… Impossible! Such things do not happen. And before I take a breath again… The battle had already begun.
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=Chapter 9=
I was terrified, but for a moment I could not gaze away from what is happening. The Jackals were breaking one after another by the wolf. Hurting each other. The air was filled with growling, whining, plaintive wail… But most felt the energy. I did not know what it is, but electrifying the air. As I watched, not even noticed how much I clung to the tree. My knuckles were white and my fingers were sore. The tears just streamed down my face. There were no sobs. They fell just one after another. I was afraid for myself and for Kahlan. No matter whether he is human or not. He’s trying to protect me. Take care of me in the woods. He made me company when I was alone.
The tension too much for me. Before my eyes danced black dots. I began to feel dizzy and my knees softened. I fainted. I sound like a fool, but no sane person cannot handle this pressure.
I’m not sure if I was in that condition minutes or hours. I only know that I was warm and cozy. This seemed odd, given that I was in the woods. I moaned and opened my eyes slowly. Oh! My head was resting on the Kahlan’s chest. He held me in his arms while sitting next to the tree where I was hiding. He was bleeding, but he did not care much. He held me carefully. He stroked my hair. There was something else. He shivered. Definitely was not cold, because he was so hot, it seems as though burned.
I looked up to look at him.
-What is it? What happened?
-Nothing, little one. They are gone.
-You’re hurt! My God! – I tried to get away from him, but he would not let me.
-I’m okay! Do not worry about me. I… - He looked down.
He was ashamed of something. I was not sure. But I remembered. The wolf!
-You are the wolf! I… I saw…
-Yeah… You saw me. I… I did not you to know… This is…
-Unusual? Incredible? Definitely. Tell me… How could you close to me as a wolf, but to tolerate my bad behavior as a human?
-I could not bear to stay away from you no matter how angry you are. Trust me… I don’t understand why.
I laughed. He is right. I noticed that he behaves oddly to me without good reason. Well, it is not very easy to win me even though I already liked him. Of course, I cannot deny that a little frightened me his true self. He was a wolf. Although he is very nice to me, he was still a wild animal. If he feels in danger he will go to attack. I knew that.
Slowly I began to stand. This surprised him, but I felt weird. I felt cool being away from him, but it was better. In the end, I do not know him well. He was a friend of my brother and so had to stay. For this I tried to look as serious.
-Can you just get me home? It’s cold, and soon will be dark. I do not want Hunter to be worried about me. You’ll be surprised how jealous brother he is.
-So you both are close?
-Well, yes. Although he does not carry the same blood.
The words shocked him and he cannot manage to keep his expression.
-What do you mean? Why do not carry the same blood?
-Well, you have to ask him. But I’ll only say that for me he does not matter. I will always love him.
Maybe I should not have to tell him. I’m not sure. I don’t know if my brother will let me angry that I mentioned that. Well, I’m a fool… This, of course, spoils my mood. I became sad. I waited for him to get up. Then I went to the car. Suddenly my enamored with him surprised him. His face showed that worried him. I got into the car and waited for him to get dressed in the clothes that he wore as a spare. I watched him in the rearview mirror and the view definitely was good. He was muscular and damn sexy. Kahlan knew because I saw he looked at me and smiling. I blushed from embarrassment.
He got in his car and drove off.
♣
Kahlan’s POV
I felt weird when I held her in my arms. I felt… right. I felt good. I heard her calm breathing. That calmed me down after the battle. Of course, I took care of the bodies of the damned jackals. I knew I had to tell about it. These attacks began to frequent. People would start digging where they shouldn’t. For me it was not a problem that I was attacked. I’m not a moron who cannot cope with the number of such carrion. But they threatened her. It made me crazy. I could have killed many more. But now I was calmed down. Holding her in my arms, I felt better.
Drea was awake. Initially she adopted my nature normally. Then she becomes cold. And when she said that Hunter was not her real brother… I don’t know why it bothered me. I felt like I have to defend my territory. I don’t know how I can stand if there have another man around her. While I thought that he is her brother was all right. But now I’ll think just how he looked at her during the day and night. How he hugged her, even brotherly. Damn! Where did this jealousy come from?
She got into the car without a word. But I said nothing too. I left her there to warm while I take out the spare clothes that usually wear in the trunk of my car. Before I had not this habit, but when you wake up naked in the woods with blood on him and torn clothes… Things change. Not that this is a problem for my family. We are all wolves in one pack. The truth is that many residents of the city and its surroundings are like us. Maybe two quarters of the population. For now we guarded the secret well. There were only a few carefully selected people who we trust that secret. Well, yes! I screwed up. Drea saw me. But for some reason I knew she would not betray me.
So… Where was I? Ah, yes… As I dress, I noticed that she was looking at me in the rearview mirror. What she saw… she liked it. I could not help but smile contentedly, and she saw me. She was embarrassed. I was very happy that she still be interested in me. Only if my friends hear me… I, who am always serious and does not go out with any woman my way…, I’m head over heels crushing this girl and frankly I do not mind. She hardly knows how beautiful and sexy. But for me she was just… perfect.
Drea’s POV
When I got home I went immediately to my room. I took off my clothes and stepped into the shower. I left the water running down me and wash away the fear of the experience. But I could not stop thinking about Kahlan. The memories were stuck in my mind. I touch the places where he had touched me. No dirty thoughts, of course. Well, not much.
I stopped the water and dried with my favorite red towel. I wrapped myself with it and walked out of the bathroom. I got dressed and went downstairs. It was time for dinner. I was surprised to see that my whole family is there. Even Megan. They embark on a live chat. Discussed the attacks. Incidentally I learned that my father deals with investigations on unusual cases. It becomes clear to me what it was about and I was worried. I said nothing. Never showed it. Just listening to what information a media and investigators have. I heard nothing interesting because I already know what it is.
I ate quickly. I was tired of too many events that took place. I tried to sleep, but it was difficult since my brother crept up to me to talk.
-You were with Kahlan, right?
-Yes.
-How did it go? He really likes you, I guess.
-I know that, Hunter. I… I did something.
-What did you do?
-Well, I told him that you and I are not…
-We are not blood brother and sister? Sooner or later he would understand.
-You know, brother? I think he’s jealous.
He laughed. He kissed my forehead and left the room. And I… I was trapped in a blissful dream.
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