Chapter 22

An Unexpected Visit

“This is going to be delicious!” Scarlett said as we plowed into the car. She naturally settled against me, taking the middle seat while I took the window seat. It felt completely natural and I couldn’t help but smile. Scarlett had seemed tense before we left the house and it worried me – sometimes I just couldn’t tell what was going on in that pretty head of hers. Now she seemed to relax and looked up at me with a gorgeous smile that took my breath away.

The moment in the guest bedroom took my breath away. I had been worried she would be disgusted by the idea of me touching her, but she obviously wasn’t. I hid a male smile of satisfaction and looked out the window. I had been serious when I told her I didn’t need the fulfillment she could offer. I wanted her to be ready for any step we would take and I didn’t want to sully the relationship by pressing sexual wants. Scarlett and I had fun, from bantering to simply talking. I wanted to savor every moment I had with her, because I didn’t know what was going to happen after the wedding.

The thought made me frown. Would she be coming back to the school – to Ireland? Or would she stay here with her family and friends? I bit my lower lip – a habit I had unconsciously picked up from the pixie beside me. I smirked at the nickname.

I watched as we rolled into town. It was a quaint town, I'd say, and vaguely reminded me of the villages in Ireland. We appeared to be on the main street with shops reflecting each other on the sides. People strolled down the sidewalks, laughing and talking. Elders and young children sat on the porches of the houses that sat amongst some of the stores – calling out to those who strolled and inviting them for a glass of lemonade. It seemed to be a happy town and I enjoyed the atmosphere it sent me into to. I could see a movie theater down the road and the Chinese restaurant right across from it.

Donovan and Ellie talked quietly in the front seat as we neared the restaurant. Scarlett was quiet beside me, her soft form pressed against the length of my torso. I inched my arm around her and she looked up at me and smiled before settling comfortably. I saw Ellie glance in the rearview mirror and I caught her gaze. She winked at me in a comrade way and I smiled in return.

We pulled into the parking lot that rested against the side of the restaurant. Donovan parked deftly into a space and turned off the car. He hopped out of the car and strode over to Ellie’s side. She sighed, as if she were still getting used to this, and let him help her out of the car. I unbuckled my seat belt and got out of the car. Scarlett attempted to get up but was held firmly by her seatbelt. She looked confused for a moment.

“Seatbelt, Scarlett,” I clued her in. Scarlett looked up at me and her cute mouth formed the shape ‘O’.

She looked disgruntled as she unbuckled the belt and took my offered hand to assist her out of the vehicle. Scarlett flashed a smile up at me, her previous annoyance no longer holding her back. I couldn’t help but to smile back at her and paused slightly to brush a stray lock of strawberry hair out of her eyes.

I turned to survey the Chinese restaurant. It was definitely oriental-themed, with the outer walls painted a fiery red with a golden dragon trailing along the sides. The windows had dark blue blinds with flowers painted on in a very flamboyant manner. The roof had the classic Asian-shingled look to it and was painted a darker red in comparison to the fiery walls.

The sidewalk wasn’t painted, but on the pavement footprints of what looked to be a dragon were printed. It was a creative idea and the footsteps led to two, big doors. The doors were a heavy metal with big circles as handles. I could see our reflections in the mirror-like metal and Scarlett gave me a saucy wink. I grinned at her reflection.

I opened the door and the scent of cooking food wafted through the air. It smelled delicious indeed and I was suddenly reminded how long it had been since I last ate. There were paper dragons hanging from the ceiling, along with various colors of paper umbrellas. The walls were painted a dark green with the same flamboyant flower pattern painted along the border. It settled for a calm, relaxed atmosphere and soft music played in the background.

My hand sought Scarlett’s and held it in my grasp. A hostess with straight, jet-black hair came forward and she smiled becomingly at us

“How many, please?” She asked, with a soft accent lilting her words.

“Four,” Donovan rumbled from behind us. Donovan was another character all together; he reminded me of myself…except American. His mannerisms mirrored mine and he was just as protective of Ellie, it seemed, as I was of Scarlett. The way he watched Ellie definitely suggested there was quite a story behind them. It was quite intriguing. The aura of love that surrounded them was almost tangible. Anyway, I had a feeling that Donovan was not one to be trifled with…but I still wouldn’t mind the challenge. The two of us were of equal size and possibly strength. It would be very interesting to see.

“Follow me, please,” the hostess murmured and turned. She picked up four menus from a slot on the stand and walked down the aisle. I stepped forward, Scarlett in tow, and followed the hostess. Donovan and Ellie walked behind us and I could hear Ellie laughing at something Donovan said. Her laughter was quite like Scarlett’s, except a little bit huskier.

The red, plush carpet was soft against our shoes as she led us to a dark blue booth. I stepped back to allow Scarlett to scoot in first and I sat down on the end. Donovan did similar and then sat down across from me. Scarlett and Ellie exchanged smiles and I looked at Scarlett suspiciously. She merely shrugged.

“Your waitress will be with you momentarily,” the hostess said.

“Thank you,” we murmured in unison and she walked away lightly.

“It looks nice in here,” I said, glancing around the inside again.

“Yeah, it’s pretty popular. It’s the best one in town,” Ellie said from behind the menu.

“Hi, I’m Sandy,” a woman in her late twenties strolled up to the booth. She was dressed in a high-collared dress, with an oriental pattern printed all over the basic blue fabric. A typical uniform, I assumed. She had her dark brown hair pulled back into a bun on the top of her head and chopsticks stuck through the mass. Her eyes automatically scanned Donovan and I, then moved on to scan Ellie and Scarlett. I wanted to roll my eyes. Scarlett apparently thought the same as she caught the woman looking at me. Her eyes threatened to spark flames. I suppressed a smile, secretly pleased at her reaction.

“What can I get you all to drink?” She asked, her tone polite.

“Diet whatever,” Ellie requested.

“Sprite,” Donovan chimed in.

“Diet, too, please,” Scarlett murmured.

“I’ll have a, emm, Sprite, as well,” I said, the last one to request a drink.

The waitress’s eyes fell on me, “Honey, where are you from?”

“Ireland,” I murmured. The waitress’s face lit with a smile and I politely smiled back – not quite sure how to handle this situation. It wasn’t exactly common to ask about one’s accent in Ireland…considering we were all Irish.

“Oh! How coo-yute!” She said, heavily emphasizing ‘cute.’ Her eyes skimmed my face and body again. I could almost sense the tension rising – mostly from Scarlett.

Scarlett laid a hand on mine – a clear hint, “That’s all, thanks,” she said. Her voice was almost a purr, but I could detect the growl lurking beneath the saccharine sweet words.

“Mmhm, sure,” the waitress said, her eyes still on me, “I’ll be back in a minute.” She sashayed away and I rolled my eyes, turning back to the other three.

“Gosh, what nerve,” Scarlett mumbled under her breath. I laughed.

“You sure made your intent clear, Scarlett,” Donovan said with a grin. Ellie nodded, linking her arm with Donovan’s.

Scarlett shrugged, “She was acting as if Tristan were some…specimen.”

“Well, thank you, for protecting me,” I said, amusement and pleasure mixed in my voice.

Scarlett slapped my hand lightly, “Hey, now – I will throw you to the lions, mister.”

“Oh, no!” I gasped, mock horrified.

“Hmph, fine,” Scarlett muttered and started to withdraw her hand. I twisted my hand, palm up, and grabbed hers back in my grasp. Scarlett jerked at her hand once or twice before sighing and relaxing.

The waitress came back, a bit quicker than I suspected was necessary, to lay out drinks out on the table in front of us. She leaned deliberately across me, so close I could smell the floral perfume she had on. Scarlett was tensed, her nails digging slightly into my hand. Boy, did she have a temper.

“What can I get you to eat?” she friendly asked.

“Chicken and assorted vegetables,” Ellie murmured, folding her menu and resting it on the end of the table. She leaned across Donovan and he lightly pressed a kiss to her hair as she did.

“Same, please,” Scarlett said. Her voice was light, the irritation veiled underneath. She folded her menu as well and all but threw it at the waitress. I bit my lip to refrain from grinning. The waitress looked at Scarlett with distaste and Scarlett returned the look with a sunny smile.

“I’ll have Sesame chicken,” Donovan said in his deep voice. All of their accents had a slight twist to it, but it was definitely there. He set his menu down calmly.

“And I’ll have the Szechwan beef, please,” I said and set down my menu as well. The waitress smiled brightly at me. I squeezed Scarlett’s hand.

“Of course, honey. I’ll put those orders in this moment,” she murmured with a slight flutter of the eyelashes. I ignored it and leaned in to press a soft kiss against Scarlett’s cheek. I heard the intake of breath of the waitress and felt Scarlett smile underneath my lips.

“You two are ridiculous,” Ellie muttered.

“Don’t be jealous,” Scarlett laughed.

“Jealous? I’m offended, Scarlett,” Donovan said, mock hurt.

Scarlett smiled, “Ellie will make you feel better about it, I’m sure.”

I rolled my eyes.

“Sorry, Tristan,” Donovan grinned, “You gotta keep up with these two.”

“Aye,” I drawled, “I’m gathering that.”

Scarlett nudged me with her elbow, “Come on, it’s fun!”

I grinned, “I never denied that, lass.”

Scarlett smiled, “Good.” She leaned over to take a sip out of her straw and silence fell over the group for a few moments.

“So,” Ellie said, “the rehearsal is tomorrow night…and the wedding is the next day.” Excitement hummed her words and she glanced up at Donovan, almost shyly. He squeezed her hand. I couldn’t help to be a tad jealous of that, of the security they shared. I glanced down at the top of Scarlett’s head and wondered if we’d reach that point.

“Gotcha,” Scarlett said, “since we’ll be staying with you…we don’t have to worry about the times and whatnot.”

Donovan nodded and leaned back in a stretch against the booth.

“Hey,” Scarlett suddenly said, “Ellie and I need to go out on girls’ night…you know, like a bachelorette party!” Her eyes lit up with the prospect and I sighed – who knows what trouble that could bring.

“Oh, you’re right!” Ellie said, “I never even thought about that. It doesn’t have to be like a party…just the two of us, of course.” Ellie nodded.

“Just don’t get in trouble, okay..? You two have a knack for getting into crazy things,” Donovan said.

“Tristan, have you heard about the time the two of them almost got involved in a drive-by?”

Ellie and Scarlett groaned.

“No…do tell, Donovan,” I asked, my eyes sliding to Scarlett’s blushing face.

“Well, the two of them had the bright idea for a ‘girls’ night out’ as they so say it…and well, they got lost in the city. Unbeknownst to them, they were skipping merrily into the gang part of the city. I was in the nearby block, ironically, and walking to the bus stop. I had a class down in the city. So anyway, a car approaches the two of them and they naively accept a ride to the bus stop,” Donovan glowered at Ellie, who glared back.

I glanced at Scarlett, who was staring down at the table, tracing her fingernails against the grid of the wood.

Donovan continued, “Well, halfway there…the driver pulls out a gun. The girls don’t even notice until the car is slowing down to a mere crawl. Scarlett screams, Ellie screams, the driver screams…the gun accidentally goes off and hits a nearby street sign. At this point, I’m ahead of the car and I hear the gun go off. I turn, look, and see too strangely familiar women screaming their heads off in the back of a car. I naturally curse and take off running to the car. The driver starts shooting as he sees me running, but ironically and luckily, the girls’ screams are throwing him off course. I can see Ellie’s gaze locked with mine and she proceeds to hit the man in the back of the head with her purse. He turns to struggle with her and that’s when Scarlett jumps in, smashing her heavy-duty designer purse against his head as well. By now I have reached the beat up car and I yank the car door open, grab and pull out Scarlett – where she falls to the ground. Quite graceful, Scarlett. So then the driver is struggling with Ellie and…”

“And Donovan chivalrously saves the day!” Ellie summed up, pressing herself against her fiancé.

I looked down at Scarlett, “Were you hurt?” It was quite the story and slightly worried me – this ability to find herself in dangerous situations.

“Yes,” she murmured, chagrined, “I only skinned my knees from the pavement.”

I chuckled and pressed a kiss to her hair, “What are we to do with ye two?”

Scarlett sighed, acting as if she were strained, “I guess you’ll just have to watch out for me…”

“Oh, no. It’s sad I am to be burdened with such a great task,” I said, speaking with a heavy Irish accent.

Scarlett hit me on the shoulder and I grabbed her hand, pressing a kiss to her knuckles.

At that moment the waitress came over with a tray of food and it smelled delicious. She set down the tray on a holder and began to distribute the dishes, setting each dish in front of the appropriate owner. Her hands brushed mine as I took my plate from her and I quickly withdrew as if she burned me. This woman’s attention was not welcomed and I did not want to seem encouraging in the slightest bit.

She seemed nonplussed and continued to pass out the dishes. The waitress all but dropped Scarlett’s and Scarlett snapped her gaze up to meet the waitress’s. The waitress did react a bit to this and withdrew more quickly than she had at her earlier, leisurely pace.

“Wow, death glare much?” Ellie observed as she picked up her chopsticks.

“Bite me,” Scarlett muttered, “you’d behave the same way.”

Ellie looked thoughtful before nodding, “Yeah, you’re right.”

“And I love you for it,” Donovan said with a grin and pressed a kiss to her temple. He picked up his chopsticks as well with experience and began to eat his meal.

I watched Scarlett do the same with her chopsticks and my brow furrowed. I glanced at my chopsticks and then snuck a glance at how Scarlett was holding hers.

Scarlett caught me.

“Do you know how to use chopsticks, Tristan?” She asked innocently, no hint of ridicule in her tone. I decided I could trust her with that impression.

“Em, no,” I admitted. Donovan and Ellie spared a glance for me, before continuing to eat their supper. Well, that was sort of a relief. I wasn’t used to not being perfect at things, so it was a new feeling.

“Okay, well, this is how you hold the – wait,” Scarlett halted.

She placed a dark blue napkin over my lap, smoothing it out softly. I shivered.

“Tease,” I muttered underneath my breath. Scarlett looked up at me, slightly horrified.

“Oh! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to touch you – “ Scarlett rambled.

I laughed quietly, “It’s okay, it’s okay. I’m just giving you a hard time.” She visibly relaxed and a hint of a smile appeared on her mouth again.

“Well, this might get a bit messy for you, so yeah,” more of a smile curved her mouth.

“Hey, no making fun of the novice,” I said with an air of dignity.

She chuckled underneath her breath, “I’m sorry!”

“Okay,” Scarlett continued, “This is how you hold it…”

For the next fifteen minutes she continued to demonstrate how to use chopsticks. I wasn’t very good at it and it involved me dropping my food on my lap multiple times. Or completely missing my mouth as it fell. I'd hardly classify it as an ego-improving activity. Ellie and Donovan watched slightly, smiling at the moments when I would curse and Scarlett sigh, growing exasperated. Finally I became semi-good at it, enough that I didn’t have to worry about dropping it onto my clothes and Scarlett could eat without watching me. I definitely felt like a five-year-old again, not trusted with eating utensils.

“Good job, Tristan,” Scarlett commented as I made a successful trip from my plate to my mouth.

“I’m a pro,” I said simply.

“Sure, honey,” Scarlett laughed. I smiled at her laughter and the endearment rolled off her tongue like literal honey. I wanted to lean in and kiss her, to taste the sweetness of her mouth…my thoughts started to travel to a bad, bad place.

Scarlett was getting full and I started to pick at her plate. She seemed content with this and I smiled at how she was comfortable with me doing it. I noticed Donovan was doing the same with Ellie’s, who was sitting back and looking completely stuffed.

The waitress came over with the check, seeming completely unaware of Scarlett and I. She set the check on the table and without another word, left the scene. Scarlett appeared to be smug about it and I tossed her a grin.

My gaze fell on the check, as did Donovan’s. I had exchanged my money earlier from the system back at home to the American dollars, so I was prepared. Donovan met my gaze and we silently contemplated and both of our hands shot out to grab the check. Unfortunately my glass was in the way of the check and Donovan got to it first.

Ellie and Scarlett rolled their eyes with a laugh, muttering, “Men.”

Donovan stood to head to the counter and I stood as well, glancing back to Scarlett.

“I’m going with him – is it okay if you meet us outside?”

Ellie answered before Scarlett, “Don’t worry, Tris, I’ll protect her from any big, bad wolves.”

Scarlett growled, “Rawr!” The two of them fell into laughter.

I rolled my eyes and followed Donovan, catching up with him at the counter.

As we were waiting in the line, I saw Scarlett and Ellie stroll pass us. Scarlett gave me a small finger wave and I shook my head at her – clearly suggesting not to get into any trouble. She glared at me, seeming to say ‘what could happen?’

Who knew with Scarlett – clearly she wasn’t remembering the mishap of falling back in time...

“So, Tristan,” Donovan snapped me back to attention, “You like Scarlett?”

I glanced to Donovan, taking in his expression. He was obviously looking out for Scarlett, such as one would for a sister. I didn’t blame him, considering I slightly got the gist of what happened with Scarlett’s ex-boyfriend. It tensed my muscles and I forced myself to relax.

“Aye, that I do,” I said, softly, “very much so.”

Donovan took in my answer and expression thoughtfully.

“You know she’s been through a lot, right?” He asked and we took a step forward in the line.

“I have the gist of it, although I would very much like to hear the full story,” I said, clearly hinting I wanted him to tell me. I raised my eyebrows.

Donovan sighed, “I would, man, but I think it’s up to her to tell you.” He shrugged and turned to face the woman behind the cash register. They exchanged pleasantries, as it seemed Donovan knew her, and continued with the paying business.

I sighed, frustrated, and stared at the ground. I didn’t know when Scarlett would tell me about this information, and about what happened. I figured she knew I knew some of it…but wasn’t inclined to finish it all. Didn’t she trust me? I knew she had to, to some extent…but was it enough? I wasn’t sure about that.

The register buzzed, signifying Donovan’s payment and it being done. I glanced up and saw him walking briskly to the doors. I wondered at the change of pace and followed him, keeping up easily.

A moment later, I saw what had made him speed up. Through the window, I could see three figures standing in the parking lot. Two of them being Scarlett and Ellie…and the final addition being an unfamiliar male form. He was tall, standing around my height. But that was where the similarities ended. As I walked towards the door, I could see he had blonde, shaggy hair and had a tan complexion. Even from a distance, he gave me an uncomfortable vibe.

But that wasn’t what bothered me most.

Scarlett was standing slightly to the side of Ellie, while the man faced both of them. I could hear Ellie’s voice rising and falling as we got closer – a sign that arguing was going on. The man’s face was blotchy and red as he returned the same rising comments. I couldn’t hear Scarlett’s voice in the mix and that’s what worried me most – usually she would be in your face at the slightest provocation.

Donovan pushed open the heavy, metal doors and walked briskly over to the three. I kept in pace to him, my expression turning dark with anger. Who was this guy? The infamous Brian?

Donovan stopped next to the man and Ellie immediately stopped her yelling. Scarlett looked at me and my heart all but broke – the expression in her eyes was of true, vivid fear. While my heart broke for her, the anger swelled up and almost spilled over.

“What’s going on?” I said, my brogue turning heavy as I came upon the situation. Scarlett immediately went from Ellie’s side to mine and I pushed her behind me. Ellie moved to Donovan’s side and he kept her close.

The man looked at me, his eyes a vivid blue. With a sudden clarity, I realized this man looked exactly like Elric from the Middle Ages. I knew it had to be Brian at that moment and my hands flexed into fists.

“Who are you?” Brian said angrily, glancing to me, “I’m having a conversation with these girls here. Go away.”

“What do you want, Brian?” Donovan asked. His voice was calm and steady, although there was an edge of steel underneath.

“I want to talk to Lettie. She and I need to catch up…” His voice trailed off suggestively and he caught a glimpse of her from behind me. I stepped further over to block her from his gaze; my body tense like a bowstring.

“I doubt that’s appropriate, Brian,” Donovan said quietly.

“Shut it, Andrews. This isn’t any of your business.” Brian retorted, his eyes glaring.

Scarlett’s cold hand reached for my hand and squeezed. I could feel all her fear rush through me. Brian noticed the gesture.

“Ohhh. Is that your new boy toy, Lettie?” His nickname for her irritated me, as well as the condescending tone of his voice.

“Shut up! He’s not my boy toy,” Scarlett exclaimed, growing braver with me standing in front of her.

Brian grew angry and stepped forward, his eyes flashing, “What was that, you --“

I stepped forward, dropping Scarlett’s hand and became eye-to-eye with him, “Finish that sentence and see what happens.”

Brian growled and I took another step forward, saying darkly, “Are ye the one who hurt her? I swear ta God I’m gonna make ye feel a pain a thousand times worse than what ye didta her.” I shoved him back and my brogue thickened with each word. My expression dark and furious and I prepared myself to deliver him a thunderous blow. Brian fell back a few steps and started to charge forward when Donovan intervened.

“This is not the time nor place, Tristan,” he said quietly, pushing Brian away. I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. All I wanted to do was permanently damage that American boy’s face.

I could hear Scarlett quietly crying behind me; that was what stopped me from beating Brian to a bloody pulp. Donovan was right; I could finish this useless excuse of a man off later. Brian continued to breathe heavy, staring at me with wide eyes.

“You’re a Mick? Oh, that’s perfect! Two Irish Micks together!” Brian laughed. I growled and took another step forward. Donovan cleared his throat.

I turned and gathered Scarlett in my arms, “Come, lass. Pay no heed to him,” I gently led her away and she clung to my side, trying to avoid Brian at all cost. Brian continued to laugh and yell obscenities at our backs.

Donovan led Ellie away, who was looking murderous as I felt. I hurriedly led Scarlett to the car, jerking open the door and all but tossing her in. I glanced once more at Brian, who was standing in the parking lot, watching us. Another wave of red fury washed over me; the only thing stopping me from going after him was the look on Scarlett’s face. Her expression was crumpled with tears and her eyes wide with fright. The only time I remembered such an expression was when Elric had dared to touch her…I shivered with another wave of anger.

I climbed into the car after Scarlett and immediately took her into my arms, forgetting about seatbelts. Donovan and Ellie also climbed into their seats and the car was silent, except for the purr of the engine as it was started.

“What happened, Ellie?” Donovan said in a dark voice, his control almost slipping. That was an envious trait of Donovan; he seemed to be in complete control of his emotions – displaying nothing. I, however, was a complete mess – more so when it came to Scarlett’s safety.

“I’m not really sure; it happened quickly. We walked outside, talking, when we stumbled straight into Brian. He seemed just as surprised as we were, but then it completely transformed into some sick joy upon seeing us. I guess he knew that Scarlett had been out of town. He starts talking to us and Scarlett immediately turns into a stone, expressionless. I attempt at the small talk, all the while edging away, when he reached for Scarlett. Scarlett all but jumped behind me and that’s when I told him to back off. It went down hill from there, hurling insults and all,” Ellie finished. Her tone was comprised of anger, frustration and disappointment. Why was she disappointed? I wondered as I stared at the back of the gray headrest.

Hearing the whole story made my skin crawl. Who did that lad think he was? My hands itched to rearrange that face of his. Scarlett looked up at me, sensing my tension. She was visibly more relaxed, although I could see the unexpected visited had taken a toll on her. My poor lass.

Donovan sighed, “Brian is really asking for it.”

“I’ll say,” I muttered and stared out the window, clenching my jaw. The town flew by in a smear of colors like on a palette as we drove by. The sun was setting with soft, flowing colors of orange, pink and purple. Scarlett really did have it out for her, I realized, as I glared at the fading sun. My first day in America and already this – not to say I was repulsed. I wanted more than anything to shield Scarlett from all harm and keep her safe. I would do that in every way I could.

“Don’t worry. Brian doesn’t even live in this town anymore; I have no idea why tonight of all nights he decided to stop in,” Ellie comforted, obviously for Scarlett’s benefit. With Scarlett sitting next to me, I realized how fragile she was. It only confirmed my desire to protect her; she needed me, like it or not.

“Beats me,” Donovan muttered while turning the wheel to make a right. I saw we were entering the townhouse complex and I was relieved. I wanted to get Scarlett alone as fast as possible. A talk was definitely in order; I wanted to hear the whole story tonight. She owed me that much.

Donovan parked the sleek car in their assigned parking spot and we all filed out of the car. I leaned down to help Scarlett out, realizing she hadn’t said a word the whole way back. It was probably shock, but it worried me; the vivacious was completely gone from those moss green eyes I adored.

Donovan led the way, holding Ellie’s hand. We entered the townhouse and a calming fragrance of lavender greeted us as we stopped to kick off our shoes. The carpet felt plush against my feet and I welcomed the comfort.

“How about we skip out on seeing my mother tonight, Scarlett? You two are worn out and need to get some rest,” Ellie said in a mothering tone.

Scarlett nodded. I met Ellie’s gaze and she smiled lightly; a gesture that things would be all right. I dearly hoped she was right.

Ellie and Donovan took a seat on their quaint sofa before the TV. Ellie snuggled comfortably against Donovan’s side while Donovan relaxed his arm around her shoulders. Despite the evening’s events, they looked like they were in their own world, oblivious to everything. I envied that as I looked down to Scarlett, wondering if I could penetrate the world she was in right now.

I pressed my hand against the small of Scarlett’s back, reveling in the way my hand seemed to engulf it. I gently guided her up the stairs and to our guest bedroom. The walk to the room seemed impossibly long as Scarlett, still silent, and made our way down. I would do whatever it took to break down this unfamiliar wall that encased Scarlett.

We entered the bedroom and the smell of vanilla wafted towards us; I guessed that Ellie had air fresheners stored in various parts of the bedroom. It was comforting and soothing, with the fragrance sinking into our skin like lotion. Scarlett immediately sat down at the corner of the bed and stared at the floor. I frowned.

“Why won’t ye look at me?” I stared at her, a frown marking my features. I slid a hand in one of my front pockets and relaxed my stance, lest I come off as interrogating.

She refused to look up and mumbled, “Because.”

I grew exasperated and a sigh fought to slip from my lips. I pressed them together to refrain from making my frustration apparent. I walked slowly over to her, silently, and slowly knelt in front of her. Scarlett’s eyes shifted to stare at my chest.

I reached over with my hand and gently raised her chin up. Her darkening green eyes met mine for a moment before darting away to stare over my shoulder. Scarlett’s eyes were glossy with unshed tears and she bit her lower lip, turning it a bloody pink.

“Look at me, Scarlett,” I ordered gently. My voice was soft and caressing with no threat visible. I wanted to solve this and mostly importantly, I wanted to solve it with her. Not with a glass doll, who merely sat there, saying the things she thought I wanted to hear.

I could see the battle in her eyes. A fire started to simmer in them, brightening them to a tumultuous storm of a green sea. Her cheeks were flushed and I silently thanked God for that; the pallor had left her face and I started to see emotion.

Scarlett’s eyes met mine, “What?” she asked, and I sighed with relief as I heard the stubbornness puncturing the word. I decided not to beat around the bush and to come straight out with it.

“I want to know what went on with ye and him,” I avoided saying his name. Scarlett flinched and her gaze wavered to over my shoulder again before meeting mine once more. I dearly hoped she would give me this chance, that she would prove she trusted me enough. Our eyes waged a silent battle – her fire against my ice. I refused to melt underneath her piercing stare and the fire in her eyes dimmed, but only slightly.

“What is there to say?” she asked quietly, although there was a lace of steel wedged behind her voice.

“Scarlett, you know what there is to say. I don’t know what happened between ye two and it’s killing me. I feel like the odd man out; it’s obvious that Ellie and Donovan know what happened. I hate not being included in something so…big,” I ended, not even being able to choose a word to adequately describe the situation.

Scarlett sighed and this time the war was internal. She remained silent for another five minutes and I waited patiently. If she were going to tell me, I didn’t want to screw it up by being impatient. I realized that this would take an incredible amount of courage to confess. I stood and took a seat next to her on the bed. We scooted to the center of the bed, where she laid on her side and I sat Indian-style.

She began quietly, her eyes going over my shoulder again as she fell into memory.

“I pretty much knew him all my life, but things started getting serious around the end of junior year. It was wonderful; I mean, he was the guy all the girls wanted…and he picked me,” her eyes met mine before darting off again, “I wasn’t very popular, in the sense of having guys chasing me all. I didn’t put out; I was actually quite the bookworm, though you would never guess it. We started to go on a few dates and my father & stepmother were thrilled. A boy from a prominent, old family…what more could they want?” Her tone was bitter and I faintly wondered if I would even meet these parents of hers, although I wasn’t concerned if I didn’t.

I remained silent and she continued, “Well, we started going steady. I was so blissfully happy that I stupidly didn’t notice his controlling nature. I stopped hanging out with my friends, I stopped going out; I only stayed by his side. It was sick. It was close to the end of my senior year that things started to get…violent. Verbally and physically. We fought more, with him screaming that I wasn’t allowed to do this or that. I was meek and quickly surrendered whenever he would go towards me. After one of my friends convincing me this relationship was turning unhealthy, I confronted him. That was the first night he hit me,” she ended softly, her delicate voice pained by the memory.

I involuntarily tensed, fury racing through my veins. She sensed the change in my composure and met my eyes. Scarlett weakly smiled; I nodded, wanting her to go on. I would control my temper.

“It shocked me so much that I immediately backed down. I covered the bruise up with powder and blush, convincing myself it wasn’t that bad. After that, any fight we would get into would end with bruises – on me, of course. Afterwards, though, he was so sweet…and so sorry, begging for my forgiveness. How could I refuse him? He made me so happy, and after all, it was my fault he hit me. A few weeks later he wooed me into,” she hesitated, “sleeping with him. He made it out to be such a romantic thing, but it was too fast, too much, too rough. It was overall very painful and immediately scorned my thoughts of wanting to continue. I begged him to stop, but he ignored me and linked his hands around my wrists, pinning me to the bed. I guess that would be considered rape, wouldn’t it?” She said on a bitter laugh.

My hand found hers and my thumb gently rubbed circles on her knuckle. She took a deep breath, steadying herself.

“After that…well, it was just a continuous cycle. Happiness, arguments, beatings, rape. I don’t know why I stayed with him so long and I’m furious with myself for allowing that weakness. It wasn’t until after I met Ellie that I slowly became aware. Ellie has also been in a similar situation, except with her stepfather,” she glanced at me. I was surprised at this confession; it was almost impossible to picture the bright Ellie battered and bruised. Scarlett continued, “but, that’s where her romantic story with Donovan comes in; he saved her from that life and put the man in jail. Anyway, Ellie noticed the signs, being a post-victim herself, and saved me from Brian, and myself. Ellie convinced me to break up with him. I was scared, so scared. On the day I decided to go through with it, Donovan was there. I decided to break up with Brian in a restaurant to prevent a scene. It didn’t necessarily work. He ‘discreetly’ dragged me off to the alley behind the restaurant and proceeded to start to beat me. By this time, I had learned how to go numb to pain…a defense mechanism, if you will. I was lying on the street, bleeding, when Donovan burst from the backdoors. He saved me and for that, I am eternally grateful. He put the fear of God into Brian and set him off his way – Donovan never hit Brian; he only threw him into a wall,” Scarlett chuckled.

I made a mental note to give Donovan an official thank you for saving Scarlett’s life. It tore at my heart to think about what would have happened if he had not stepped in. I repressed a shudder.

“Anyway, that pretty much sums it up. Brian left me alone and I discovered serenity in my life once more. He didn’t bother me for the next few years…and then I was sent to Ireland. The rest is history, I suppose,” Scarlett concluded the epic on a sigh. She didn’t speak of the mental scars her experience with Brian had left, but I knew they were there all the same. I was determined to smooth those scars out and replace them with only blissful memories.

Hearing the whole story knocked the breath out of me, though. It was what I expected, but yet so much more. In a way, I had hoped that perhaps it wasn’t true, perhaps it was only in my head that Scarlett had been beaten so. It literally pained me to think of Scarlett helpless and bleeding while that sick bastard violated her body.

My gaze met hers and she looked pained, “Don’t look at me like that,” she whispered.

“Like what?” I asked, immediately conscious of my expression.

“Like I need to be pitied,” Scarlett said, “I’ve had too much of that from Donovan and Ellie.”

“I don’t pity ye,” I said, surprised, “I was just thinking about how much I'd like to lay out this bastard for harming ye.”

Scarlett blushed, “Oh.”

“Don’t your parents know?” I changed the subject slightly.

She frowned, “I think they had an inkling of what was going on…but you know, being rich is such a distraction,” she laughed, although I could sense the disappointment resting underneath.

I smiled, “You’re the distraction for me.” Her parents, or rather father and stepmother, were another issue that I sensed was not an issue we needed to get into tonight. Heaven knows she just revealed a huge secret and didn’t need for me to be interrogating her further.

Scarlett looked up at me from beneath her lashes, “Oh, really?”

I was relieved that the conversation was turning to banter and away from the dark place we had both visited. She looked relieved as well, as if a great weight had been lifted from those small shoulders.

“Mmhm,” I murmured, nonchalantly.

Scarlett sat up and pressed her mouth to mine, a soft welcoming. My hand encircled the back of her neck, burying my fingers in the great mass of hair. I was aware of myself, not to be too rough. I moved my lips gently against hers until she gripped my shirt in frustration. I intensified the kiss for a moment or two, but broke away when she started to pull me toward her body. I had a feeling that tonight was not the night to fall into the spell of lust again – she was way too vulnerable to be doing anything intimate.

Scarlett frowned at me, disappointed, “What?”

“I don’t want to be doing anything too quickly,” I said, gesturing with my hands.

“Hmph,” was all she said as a thoughtful expression came over her face.

“What?” I asked, warily.

“May I ask you a question?” She returned, her eyes suddenly become soft with shyness.

I said, “Sure,” although I wasn’t quite sure I wanted to know what it was.

“How…how many girls have you been with?” Scarlett flushed a pink while her nails picked at the quilt.

Oh.

I glanced up at the ceiling, studying the patterns and wondered how to answer.

“Scarlett, I have only ever been with one other girl,” and that was the honest truth. Sure, back at home I had the crazy reputation of being lucky with the ladies. I wasn’t saying that I could not have had the chance to sleep with any girl I wanted – I knew I probably could. I didn’t want to, though. There are too many risks to it for the mere moments of pleasure – I knew it sounded completely un-guy like, but heck, I wasn’t stupid.

Scarlett’s eyes flew to mine, surprised, “Are you serious?”

“Aye…thanks,” I said, sarcastically.

Scarlett laughed, “I’m sorry…it’s just, well, I just thought you’d have more experience. You know, getting with all the lasses,” she put heavy influence on the word ‘lasses.’ I smiled.

“Yeah, I know. It’s a common misunderstanding,” I said simply and left anymore questions to her. I waited, knowing what would come.

“Well…who was she?” Scarlett asked after a few moments.

“My ex-girlfriend. I dated her throughout ‘high school’, as you Americans call it. We thought we were in love, ye know, the puppy love. I was sixteen and she was the same age. There wasn’t anything special about it. It just happened after about a year of dating. We soon after broke up as, well, my male hormones went crazy,” I said, chagrined, “I grew up after that, then being 17. With Eve, it was an off-again-on-again relationship. We were both content with that…sort of being friends with benefits,” I glanced at Scarlett to see how she was taking it.

Her expression was serene and completely in control of her emotions. I had to give it to her – she knew how to keep it in check. I figured she understood, though, and that it was just a past relationship. Nothing more.

I continued, “After awhile, I grew tired of it. It had been going on for years and I wanted to move on. I suspected Eve did as well – she also, well, had a growing reputation for being easy. I did not want to get myself involved with jealous guys and the potential risks.”

“Smart,” Scarlett commented, thoughtful.

“Aye, thank ye. I thought so as well. Anyway, there aren’t any bad feelings between Eve and I. On the contrary, we’re pretty much friends now. Now and then she tries, but I never go for the bait,” I shrugged, “I’ve found something way, way better.” I grinned.

“Oh, yeah? What?” Scarlett asked, innocently, going along.

“Well…it’s some girl; ye may know her,” I said, nonchalantly. Humor heavily influenced my tone.

“Oh! Do tell. Perhaps I do,” Scarlett said eagerly, her eyes alit with amusement.

“She’s fairly short and has strawberry blonde hair with amazing sea-green eyes. She’s beautiful and takes my breath away every time she rests those pools of green on me. Her laughter is like the tinkling of bells and I can see every guy following her with their eyes. She has an incredible smile, one that hints there is definitely more to be told about this girl. And you know what?” I said, smiling at her surprised expression.

“What?” Scarlett asked breathlessly.

“I’m completely, irrevocably in love with her,” I ended simply.

Her eyes widened with surprise.

I nodded and winked, as if we were both involved in a conspiracy.

“Golly,” she breathed. Her eyes connected with mine before inching towards me across the bed. I met her halfway and kissed her; I kissed her as if we were the only two people in the world, because, at this moment, we were. Her hands slid up to my shoulders and she got as close as she could to me, pressing herself firmly against my body. Scarlett moved to press kisses along my jaw line to my neck, to my ear. I shivered as her warm breath caressed the sensitive skin. I could feel her smile against my skin and she moved back to kiss me on the mouth again.

We continued for another moment until I gently broke the kiss. Scarlett looked disappointed again, “That’s not fair,” she muttered.

“I know, I know,” I sighed, just as frustrated as she was.

“Why do we have to stop?” She asked, trying to trap me.

I smiled.

“It’s late,” I said, gesturing to the clock, “we’ve both had a long day and definitely need rest for tomorrow’s rehearsal.”

Scarlett glanced to the clock where it read 11:00 P.M, “Oh. I didn’t realize how quickly time passed! My goodness.” As if suddenly aware of her exhaustion, she unsuccessfully tried to stifle a yawn. I smiled.

“Bedtime!” I called and jumped from the bed.

“Make me!” Scarlett retorted.

I growled and she began to laugh as I launched myself at her, tackling her off the bed.

“Okay, okay!” she shrieked, “I’ll go to bed!” Scarlett quickly gave up and went limp in my arms.

“Rag doll,” she muttered from the side of her mouth. Scarlett closed her eyes and continued to stay limp.

“Oh, no,” I murmured. I picked her effortlessly up and her face creased in a frown as her intent was to hinder me. I pressed kisses against her face until she started smiling, and then laughing.

I set her down as her eyes opened, “Okay. Bedtime, lass. I mean it.”

Scarlett nodded and gestured for me to turn around as she backed up towards her suitcase of clothes. I rolled my eyes but did what she suggested. Overall, the night had turned out to be very positive. I felt lifted at Scarlett being able to confide and being able to tell her about my relationships as well.

As she changed, I did as well. I went through my suitcase and picked out a pair of long, plaid pajama pants. That’s all I needed. I quickly stripped of my clothes – while I didn’t care if Scarlett saw me, I didn’t want to give her a heart attack by catching her off guard.

When I turned again, she was leaning against the wall, looking smug. She was in a pair of white shorts with pink stripes; she had a pink tank top on and had pulled her hair back away from her face. It exposed her neck and I eyed up the tender spot I so desperately wanted to bite.

“I’m going to do some girl stuff, okay?” Scarlett said, as she headed towards the door, toothbrush and a bag of toiletries in hand.

I was slightly confused, “Okay.” I assumed she meant taking off her make-up, or whatever that entailed.

I started to lie out my clothes as I waited for her to come back. I didn’t pack much, but the majority of my best clothes were packed. Sweet. I set out some of my toiletry stuff, such as deodorant and cologne, on the dresser top. I took out my toothbrush and toothpaste and waited.

She came back moments later and set her bag down on the dresser, next to mine. Scarlett turned to look at me, “I feel weird without make-up on,” she confessed.

“You’re beautiful,” I murmured and leaned over to kiss her softly. It was true – even without make-up she continued to steal away my breath. Her eyes sparkled and her complexion was flushed; her lips were a rosy red from brushing her teeth. It made her all the more tempting.

Scarlett rolled her eyes, “Okayyy,” she said, drawing out the word.

“I’ll be back,” I said and walked out the door to head down to the small bathroom. The halls were off in every other room of the house, so I assumed Donovan and Ellie had gone to bed. Once I entered I quickly surveyed the room – bathtub/shower, toilet, counter and mirror. It had all the essentials. The bathroom had a beach theme, with the walls painted a soft blue and a seashell border. Seashells lay in a small bowl on the counter with baby breath flowers resting against them. The bath/shower had a curtain that continued the seashell theme, with plastic seashells on the clasps that connected it to the shower rail. There was a soft, cream rug that rested against the counter. The rug reminded me of the sand while the walls reminded me of being surrounded by a blue ocean.

I quickly brushed my teeth, went pee and washed my hands. I was eager to get to Scarlett. The idea of sleeping with her – actually sleeping, mind you – was exciting. I was looking forward to holding her smaller body to my larger one and keeping her warm.

I walked back down the hall and entered the room. Scarlett was already in bed, the covers smoothed out over her legs. The lights were still on and as I strolled over to flip back the corner of my side, I noticed she was asleep. She was breathing softly and her eyelashes rested against her cheeks in the most enchanting way. Her hair had escaped the ponytail and was spread out over the pillow, her curls circling her head like a halo. Scarlett was curled up on her side, with one hand tucked underneath her cheek. I smiled. Scarlett truly had a rough day and needed a good night’s rest. I pressed a light kiss to her forehead and she stirred slightly. I held my breath, not wanting to awaken her; yet she only sighed and settled deeper in the covers.

I smiled and turned to shut off the lights. Darkness fell upon the room and I walked back into the bed, crawling in quietly. My weight shifted the mattress slightly and as I settled into it, Scarlett turned onto her other side and rolled into me. She sighed contently and nuzzled her cold nose into my neck. I grinned into the darkness and circled my arms around her lithe frame.

I could feel her breathing lightly against my chest and I stared up at the ceiling, searching for it in the night. I was inexplicably happy; this was something I had only dreamed about in my most distant dreams. Scarlett slid her smooth leg in between mine and slid her hand to rest on my chest, palm down. I slid my hand up to capture hers and I squeezed it slightly.

I fell asleep with a smile on my face.

--

A/N: Sweet! Another chapter done. I’m pretty happy with this one and I hope I didn’t take too absurdly long to update again. I really, really want to finish up this story (but I’m slightly sad to!) and put everything to rest. I’m already writing the next chapter in my head, haha.

I hope you all liked this one! And don’t worry; that’s not the last of Brian…ooh, is the suspense getting to you?

I would type out all my thank yous and comments, but my wrists are killing me! I’ve been typing up this chapter for the past few hours. Sooo, I think I’m going to pass on it tonight. Just now, I thank you ALL SO MUCH for reading this and sticking with me through thick & thin. You girls are what make me keep on going! And I’m very glad you girls do, because I’m in love with this story. Please excuse any typos!

THANK YOU!

Love,

Catee