Cillian

by Anna Joung

  She tutted, “Ever since that young lad moved away you haven’t so much as looked at another man. It’s time to move on sweetie, you won’t stay young forever. I know you’re only 23 but you’re so beautiful, just like your mother. Oh, I miss your parents dearly. I wish my son was here to see the woman you’ve grown into.”

  I let a moment of silence fall between us as we thought back to my parents. They had both died when I was five in a terrible car crash. They had been heading back along the highway on a stormy night when a drunk driver had been heading in the opposite direction. I was too young to remember much other than the officer at our door, cap in hand, before I was ushered into another room. Although we have their photos on the mantlepiece, it was becoming increasingly more difficult for me to remember their faces. A twinge of guilt flared through me before I spoke again.

  “There is this one man…” I began.

  “Who is it?” she halted abruptly, forcing me to tug on Rusty’s lead. He looked back at us confused before wandering onto a nearby patch of grass to sniff.

  I nervously cleared my throat, “His name is Cillian, he’s the guy who threw Chad out the last time he was in the shop. That’s why Chad hasn’t been back for a while. Cillian comes in to check on me on his way to work. He’s going to reopen the old automotive shop downtown. Actually, he asked me out on a date yesterday.”

  “Oh!” she squealed happily, clapping her hands. “Where are you going? What are you doing?”

  I shoved my foot into a dirt patch, throwing a small cloud of dust into the air, “I turned him down. I’m not ready.”

  “What? Of course you’re ready, and it’s the least you could do after he threw that idiot boy out of the shop. I never liked that child. Just go on one date, what’s the worst that could happen? If you need me to cover the shop, I’m more than capable.”

  I laughed as she chattered frantically. Finally, I gave into her pleading and handed her Rusty’s leash, ushering her to continue while I lingered back to make a call. Luckily, Cillian had given me his number after the incident with Chad, just in case I ever needed his assistance again. Taking a deep breath, I hit the dial button and put the phone to my ear.

  “Yes?” the gruff voice answered.

  “You still up for that date?”

  ***

  Cillian

  I checked the rucksack one last time before zipping it up and heaving it over my shoulders. It was quite heavy, but nothing compared to the weights I lifted on a daily basis. Keeping myself fit was of the utmost priority. I never knew when danger would show up at my doorstep again.

  My Triumph purred underneath me as I made my way to the shop. I didn’t know why I felt the urge to be close to her, after all, I had sworn off relationships altogether. The thought of going through the same pain I had been through the rest of my life put me on edge. Memories of the cutting words, deceiving lies, brutal violence – it made my muscles tense at the thought, ready to attack. It wasn’t until I reached the curb outside the shop that I managed to calm down.

  I need to keep everything in check. No woman could ever like a guy with a history like mine. But then… why am I here?

  Before I had a chance to step off the bike, Kayla came bolting out of the shop, she must have heard the engines. She grinned as I slipped the helmet from my head, remaining straddling the bike as we greeted one another.

  “Hey,” she waved her hand, “I didn’t realize we’d be taking the bike.”

  “Don’t worry, I brought you my spare helmet,” I unclipped it from the back and tossed it to her, she caught it elegantly before walking closer.

  “She’s a beauty, what make is she?” her eyes wandered up the length.

  “It’s a Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black, a British classic. It has a 1200 CC vertical parallel twin engine and high torque,” I replied proudly.

  “Oh, I’m going to be honest and say most of that went over my head. I’m afraid I don’t know much about bikes but this one is great. So, where are we going today?”

  “It’s a surprise. Hop on.”

  I helped her get her helmet on before counterbalancing the bike so she could clamber on easily. I had placed the backpack into one of my saddlebags so she could easily grab onto me for grip as we started the bike. I felt her arms snake around my waist and the comforting weight of her as she leaned in close. As soon as she was positioned, we kicked away from the curb and headed towards the carefully selected destination I had chosen.

  The small town whizzed by in a flurry of concrete as we headed into the woods, closer to my house in the mountains. Soon the smooth roads turned into dirt tracks and before long we were pulling into a dead end. I placed the kickstand down as she jumped off and I followed her. Both of us took off our helmets at the same time and I couldn’t help but admire the way her curls bounced back into shape. Her hazel eyes locked onto me and I could see the confusion within.

  “This is Sanhill Woods, as you probably already know. It’s my favorite place to go to escape society. As you might have guessed, I’m not one for socializing.”

  “I hope you haven’t taken me somewhere quiet to hide my body,” she laughed.

  I could tell she was joking but nevertheless it hit hard.

  Of course, she would think that, after all just look at me. I look like one of the rough biker guys, and let’s face it – it’s true.

  I tried my best to plaster a fake smile on my face, but I know it looked far less than genuine. Quickly, I turned away, unbuckling the saddlebag to retrieve the backpack. Throwing it over my shoulders, I took the helmet from her and placed them both on top of the bike.

  “Don’t worry, no one comes out here. They won’t get stolen.”

  She nodded and we both started our hike into the woods. I was glad that she hadn’t chosen to wear a summer dress on this occasion as some of the brambles had to be maneuvered to reach our destination. Instead, she had opted for some tight-fitting jeans and a flowing green top. It was difficult not to catch glimpses of her perfectly shaped ass in that denim.

  Finally, the trees started to let up and we came into a clearing next to the lake. I smiled as she looked about in wonder, her cute mouth dropping open as she took in the serene setting. Whilst she was lost in the beauty of nature, I unzipped the bag and started unpacking the contents. First, an old blanket that I laid across the flattest piece of ground, next to the food and the drinks. By the time she had snapped out of her amazement, I had the entire picnic laid out and was looking at her from my seat on the floor.

  “You did this?” she asked surprised.

  “Don’t be so shocked, I know how to throw together a few sandwiches and grab some snacks from the grocery store.”

  “I just wouldn’t take you for the picnic type,” she giggled as she sat down next to me.

  I could feel the warmth from her arm. I wanted nothing more than to reach over and grab her but instead I started pouring the drinks and offering food. We chatted away for a while, eating and drinking as we looked out upon the lake.

  “Hamtara Waters, the name of the lake if you’re wondering. I looked it up when I first moved here a couple of months ago. When I realized how isolated it was, I knew I had to make a trip up here.”

  “It certainly was worth it,” she breathed dreamily, “Thank you for sharing this place with me. You could have kept it a secret.”

  “Some secrets are worth sharing,” my eyes locked onto hers.

  As she stared into my eyes, I felt my gut clench. Something about her was different, something inside of her was calling me. Slowly, everything began to fade around us – the sounds of the lake lapping against the shore, the playful melodies of the birds, the whisper of the trees on the gentle breeze. In that moment, I hooked a thumb under her chin, tilting her head up as my mouth descended on hers. At first, it was slow and careful but then I felt the urge in her as she shuffled closer towards me until she was straddling my lap, her arms hooked behind my head. My groin began to stiffen as she rubbed herself agai
nst my jeans, my hand starting to travel up her stomach until it reached her chest. I fondled her breast in my hand as our mouths continued to mash against one another, passionate and needing. It was just as I was leaning into her that she pushed herself away, almost leaping back as though she had suffered an electric shock.

  “I’m not usually like this on first dates. I mean, I don’t really date much, this is all rather new for me. I’m so sorry, we can go back to kissing, I don’t know what to expect…” she started blathering.

  Quickly, I leaned forward and placed a hand against her reddening lips, “I think we got caught up in the moment. I’m fine to take things slow, I don’t want to ruin anything between us.”

  The words tumbling out my mouth took me by surprise. In my past life, I had always been used to fast and furious sex, not giving a damn about repercussions. I had never been in a woman’s life for more than a week anyway, and now I was suddenly offering to take things slow.

  What spell has this woman cast over me?

  Her magical smile was enough to reassure me I had chosen the right path. Blushing, she helped me pack everything away and we headed back to the bike. When we pulled up to the curb outside Beltline Fad, I briefly took my helmet off and planted a quick kiss upon her lips. We waved goodbye with the promise to arrange something again soon.

  That night, there were no nightmares.

  Chapter 3

  Kayla

  The weekend had flown by with the constant recounting of the date to her grandma. Every couple of hours she had demanded the story be relayed to her so we could pick apart the details for analysis. It was starting to get to the point that I was getting confused on the series of events and I was glad when I left to volunteer at the shelter in the evenings. I had always helped with the homeless shelter at the weekends as soon as I was legally able to do so. Something about giving back to the town I had been raised in made me feel proud.

  When Monday morning rolled in, although I was tired, sitting behind the counter and watching the customers meander through made me content. Ever since I had come back from that date, I couldn’t help but be flooded with happiness. I was like a woman possessed. Of course, I was so caught up in cloud nine that I didn’t hear the letter dropping onto the floormat until, yet another unsuspecting customer placed in on the countertop as she brushed by. I thanked her but a feeling of dread ran through me at the sight of an unstamped envelope once again arriving. Tearing it open, my fears were confirmed as I read the contents:

  Kayla,

  I saw you out with him the other day. Again. I thought we had agreed to get rid of this little problem.

  He’s not worth you, you’ll see it soon enough.

  I hope you’re looking forward to our meeting, I’ll be there soon.

  As always,

  Chad

  I stared at the paper for a moment longer before I could feel myself breaking down inside. I considered all my options but the thought of telling the police and letting my grandmother find out would be unbearable. At her age, the thought of me in danger could result in some serious health repercussions. I had to think of something else. It was then I got a glimpse of my phone and I knew what I had to do.

  “Kayla?” his voice was like velvet to my ears.

  “Cillian, what are you up to right now?” I didn’t want to jump right into the matter.

  “Just working on my bike, is everything okay? You sound a little strained.”

  The concern in his voice is what sent me spiraling over the edge. Ducking below the counter, I huddled out of sight of the customers as tears freely flowed down my cheeks. The burden of this secret made my sobbing words come out strangled.

  “It’s Chad,” I gurgled, “He’s sent letters.”

  “Hold tight, I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.”

  I remained hunched behind the countertop for the duration of the wait. Finally, I managed to gain control over my crying. I listened as the customers left the shop, probably confused as to where I had disappeared to. It wasn’t until I heard Cillian’s voice calling out for me that I finally stood up and rushed over to him. His arms enveloped me into a warm hug and I felt safe. He swaddled me as we held onto one another for a few minutes before he finally released me, brushing a lingering tear from my cheek with his calloused thumb.

  “What has that asshole done this time?” he growled.

  Reaching behind the counter, I pulled out both the letters that had been sent to me. I watched as Cillian scanned the contents, the fury palpable on his face. I could see his muscles tense as his knuckles went white clenching the paper.

  “Where is that fucker?” he practically yelled.

  I placed a hand on his chest to calm him, forcing him to look down at me. It seemed to calm him slightly until his face returned to its usual expression. It was then he tossed the letters to the side and grasped my hands, looking into my eyes.

  “Why haven’t you called the police?”

  “I can’t have my grandma find out. It would kill her if she knew I was in danger. I’d much rather deal with it myself.”

  “Well, you can’t stay here. Come stay with me, at least for a while. Don’t worry, I won’t try anything. I’ll stay on the couch and you can have the bed.”

  My heart thudded against my chest. I debated whether it was a good idea to stay at his house. After all, I barely knew the man.

  And yet you followed him into the woods.

  “Okay, I can do that. Let me finish up my shift and I’ll talk to grandma. If she can’t cover then I’ll put a notice up and close the shop for a few days. I could do with a vacation anyway.”

  “It’s not much of a vacation at mine but it certainly is quiet and safe. Especially safe,” he brushed one of my curls behind my ear, “You know I’d never let anyone hurt you?”

  “I know,” I smiled and the thought filled me with warmth.

  After a final kiss, he agreed to pick me up at 8, giving me time to go for my usual walk with grandma and explain I would be staying at Cillian’s for a while. It would also give me a chance to stock up on dog food for Rusty and pack my things.

  As expected, grandma was over the moon when I told her I would be spending some time at a boy’s house. She agreed to cover the shop, complaining that I was treating her like a frail old lady. After throwing some things into a bag and giving Rusty one final peck on the nose, I headed down into the empty shop to wait for Cillian. I had left the front door open so when I heard is engines I could head out and close up behind me. It was almost eight when I thought about calling Cillian to check up on our plans. I mindlessly started adjusting the jewelry display when I heard the tinkle of the bell.

  “Oh, I didn’t hear your bike,” I called over my shoulder, “Are you trying to sneak up on me?”

  “Why… yes I am.”

  By the time I recognized the voice it was too late and everything had gone black.

  ***

  Cillian

  The minutes ticked by as I waited outside, strumming my fingers across the fuel tank. Kayla had specifically asked I wait outside and I was doing my best to comply. It was when an hour went by that I finally decided that I could wait no longer and I headed towards the door of Beltline Fad. I was surprised when the door opened at my touch. I would have expected it to be locked up by this time in the evening, especially with Kayla running so late. The bell tinkled overhead as I wandered into the shop, trying my best to remain quiet. I found the light switch to the side and the bright light flooded the shop. It was then I knew something was wrong.

  Necklaces lay spilling across the floor, a few earrings had been smashed, as though stomped on by heavy feet. Looking across, I could see that clothes were dangling from their hangers precariously and everything was out of place. I knew that Kayla would never leave the store in this state, even if it was after opening hours. Panic surged through me as I leaped over the counter. The till was perfectly intact, that’s when I knew it wasn’t a robbery.

  Locating the stair
s at the back, I took two at a time as I rushed up to the flat above. The door easily swung open as I rushed into the living area. A beagle instantly came running up to me, yapping his warning. Dipping down, I allowed him to sniff my hand before running it along his back, soothing him until he was back to naturally wagging his tail and happily greeting the unexpected visitor.

  Not much of a guard dog.

  “What is it, Rusty?” a voice called from the couch.

  Not wanting to shock the old woman, I called out to her, “Mrs. Baker? My name is Cillian Carter. I’m… friends with your granddaughter, Kayla. Is she here?”

  I watched as the woman rushed from her seat and came quickly shuffling over to me. Her hair was silvery white and cut short, exposing her kind face. She had large green eyes, emphasized by her rounded glasses. Her smile was short-lived when she realized Kayla was not with me.

  Confused, she looked up at me, “Kayla isn’t with you? She said she would be staying with you for the next couple of days.”

  “That’s why I’m here, Mrs. Baker, I’ve come to pick up Kayla. It looks like someone broke into the shop downstairs; everything is a mess.”

  I could see the panic rise in the old woman’s face. Gripping my arm, we headed for the stairs, going down as quickly as her legs would allow her. Once we made it onto the shop floor, she gasped and held a hand to her mouth, surveying the chaos around her.

  “What happened? Where’s my granddaughter?”

  Anger flared up in me, knowing there was only one possible answer, “Mrs. Baker, where does Chad Nelson live?”

  “Please, call me Susan. You think that kid has taken her? I’ve never liked him, but I didn’t think he would do something like this. I’ll write the address down for you, he lives next to Kayla’s old family home. Where my son lived…” she drifted off for a moment but snapped out of it when I shoved a piece of paper and a pen under her nose. I had no time to lose.

  She scribbled down the address and I snatched it from the countertop. I was about to head out the door when she grabbed hold of my forearm, pinning me down with her stare.