“Thanks, I painted it all myself,” he smiled proudly.
“My mother would’ve loved it,” I smiled. “Where is everyone?”
“They’re eating breakfast in the cafeteria.”
A bright blue blanket decorated with cartoon-like fire engines and police cars was lying on one of the cots. This situation was especially unfair for the innocent children. I inhaled deeply. I had to control my anger, no good could come from it, and Andrew might appear as he said he could feel my emotions—this would certainly cause trouble.
We continued to walk the halls. I met the on call nurse and a few of the ladies that worked in the administrative office. “Your mom’s amazing,” I smiled.
“I know.”
“What can I donate?” I asked, hoping there was something more I could do.
“Your time is donation enough.”
“There has to be something else.”
“You already did. The clothing is enough,” he assured.
“It doesn’t feel like it.”
“Write a check.”
“I don’t personally have that kind of money, but maybe my father can help,” I suggested, unsure if my father would donate again after my mother’s death.
“He hasn’t in a long time.”
“I’ll ask him.” I wasn’t sure if I could talk my father into much, but the least I could do was try.
“It’d be much appreciated.”
Ryan led me back out into the lobby, and we took ours seats. “Just greet people, estimate the worth of their donations, and write out one of these receipts,” he instructed, handing me one of the pads. “It’s fairly simple.”
“Good, I can’t handle anything complicated this early.”
People came and went all morning. By noon, the line had subsided, which now left time to think. A week or two ago, I would have never dreamt up such a fantastic story. My heart and head were pulling me in two different directions. My head warned of the danger of being near such a powerful, deadly creature, but my heart longed to be near him no matter the sacrifice—even if it meant my soul. It was difficult to discern which one would prevail, but my heart was winning this tug of war…for now.
“My mother said you could go, if you want?” Ryan’s voice interrupted my thoughts.
“Really?” I was shocked.
“Yep, I think the rush is over.”
“I don’t really have anywhere to go until four, so I can stay and keep you company,” I offered, fearing the time alone might give my head a chance to rationalize the situation and win the match.
Ryan’s smile indicated he was pleased with my choice “Cool,” he replied slyly.
“When’s lunch?”
“There are sandwiches in the cafeteria.”
“Okay,” I smiled.
“I can get you a plate,” he offered.
A smile stretched across my face. “Thanks.”
Ryan immediately stood up and walked toward the cafeteria. I heard footsteps approaching the table—I looked up.
“Andrew,” I smiled nervously.
“I was in the neighborhood and wanted to stop by.” His voice was captivating.
“You arrived at a good time. This morning was crazy.”
“I have good timing I guess,” he smiled. “Are you still leaving at four?”
“Actually, just a few minutes ago, Ryan’s mother gave me the option of leaving.”
“We could find something to do, I’m sure, if you want to leave now,” he offered, gauging my reaction.
“Sure, let me tell Ryan,” I stood up and turned right into Ryan.
“Tell me what?” Ryan’s voice made me jump.
“Tell you that I was going to go ahead and take your mom up on her offer to leave early,” I said nervously.
Ryan glared in Andrew’s direction. “Leave with him?” he questioned sharply.
Their eyes locked, paying no attention to me. “Yes, Ryan, I’m leaving with Andrew.”
“Haley, you’re making a big mistake,” Ryan warned.
“Ryan, it’s fine. We’re just friends,” I insisted calmly, trying to ease the tension.
“Haley, I don’t trust him.” Ryan continued to glare at Andrew. “He’s just another creepy professor that will use you this semester, then dump you when he’s done.”
“Ryan, back off,” I warned, fearing another incident similar to the diner would occur.
Andrew stepped toward Ryan. His emerald green eyes were red again, filled with rage. “It’s not like that at all. You should mind your own business.”
I grabbed Andrew’s hand forgetting the possibility of getting burned. Andrew instinctively looked down at me. His red eyes quickly faded back to green. He looked concerned.
“Haley is my business,” Ryan challenged. “You should be the one minding yours. Isn’t it against school policy to date your students?”
I had no choice but to intervene. “I’ll drop his classes if it comes to that,” I warned.
“No, you wouldn’t have to do that. I’d just stop teaching for the semester,” Andrew clarified.
“Oh that’s smart, Haley, drop everything for another stupid guy that’ll eventually break your heart,” Ryan scoffed.
Mrs. Scott rushed over. “Ryan, where are your manners?” she asked embarrassed. “You’re making a scene.”
“Haley and I will be going now.” Andrew glared in Ryan’s direction. “I’ll be waiting outside.”
“How could you, Haley?” Ryan snapped, as he angrily shook his head back and forth.
“Ryan, it isn’t like that. We’re just friends. Just like you and I are. Just friends,” I repeated. I could see the hurt in his face.
Ryan rolled his eyes “Go off and ruin your life again, but don’t expect me to sit here waiting.”
“I’ll call you later, when you’ve calmed down.” I shouldn’t be upset with Ryan. He was just trying to protect me. I gave him one last look. “Please don’t be mad,” I mouthed. He shook his head and refused to respond.
Andrew was standing right outside the door.
“Sorry about that.”
“Don’t apologize. He can’t help his feelings for you,” he smiled, lightly touching my hand. His touch reassured any doubts I might have had this morning. My heart was definitely winning.
“I wish he didn’t.”
“He’ll get over it. I promise.”
“I hope,” I said, no longer wishing to discuss Ryan any further. I wanted to enjoy whatever time we were able to spend with one another.
I slid into Andrew’s car. He placed his hand in mine. “Are you okay?”
“Yes…why?” I asked.
“When you grabbed my hand, while Ryan and I were arguing, you had a frightened look on your face.”
“Oh, it was nothing,” I lied.
“Are you sure?”
I hesitated for a moment. “Your eyes changed color, the same shade of crimson red as the night at the diner.”
“I’m not positive about how or why you can see those differences.” He shook his head.
“Is the change real?”
“Yes, my eyes do change color. They reflect my mood.”
“Oh,” I said, relieved. “So the amber color I see is real?”
“Yes, very much so,” he smiled.
Before I could contemplate any further on his eye color, I noticed Braden’s father, Mr. Mitchell, in the same black truck rolling into the parking lot. “Oh, thank goodness, we’re leaving!”
“Why…what’s wrong?”
“My ex’s father just passed us.”
“I guess I really do have good timing,” he laughed, glancing in to his rearview mirror.
“Yes, you do.”
We hit the main road. “Where would you like to go?”
“Umm…we could pick up something to eat and head back to your place. I don’t want anyone upsetting you again while we’re out.”
“Haley, I’m not going to hurt everyone that looks at you.” He rol
led his beautiful emerald eyes. “If that were the case, all the men in Boulder would have to die,” he said flatly.
“W-Why?” My voice cracked.
“You’re a very attractive and smart woman, and I’m going to have to adjust my temper if I plan on being around you,” he laughed, gently stroking the back of my hand.
The heat from his hand warmed my aching muscles. The temperature had begun to change, and I knew winter would soon be upon us. Winter’s cold, icy grip no longer seemed as depressing as it once had, now that Andrew was around.
I chuckled slightly as Andrew ordered food from the drive-thru, it seemed preposterous for such an incredibly, strong and beautiful creature to act so human. Grabbing the bag of food, I exited the car into his garage. He opened the door, and we walked up the stairs to the kitchen. I pulled out one of the stools that sat beneath the large kitchen island.
I glanced over at the staircase, remembering how I tried to flee from this very house just last night, and here I sat waiting and desiring to know more.
“I should check my e-mail. I’ll be right back,” he mentioned, before heading upstairs.
Andrew hadn’t returned yet, and I was finished eating, so I took it upon myself to seek him out. I turned the corner into one of upstairs bedrooms and walked straight into him.
“Sorry!” I exclaimed. “I have a habit of running in to people.”
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”
“I wasn’t sure which room you were in.”
“I have an office set up in one of my spare bedrooms,” he said, pointing to the room he just walked out of.
I peered through the door. There sat an enormous, dark colored desk with intricate wood designs.
“Beautiful desk,” I admired.
“It was given to me a long time ago.”
I wondered just how long ago it had been given to him. “We never did discuss your real age last night.”
“No, we didn’t,” he smiled.
“You said something about not being close to one hundred years old, but I’m quite sure after hearing your stories, that you aren’t anywhere near the hundreds.”
“It’s only in the thousands,” he said casually.
“Oh you’re a lot younger than I thought,” I teased.
“I‘m six thousand years old,” he answered. His eyes cautiously watched to see if my light-hearted teasing would cease.
“You look really good for your age.”
“I do what I can,” he joked.
“Is immortality difficult?”
“It can be, especially if you spend your time mourning your losses.”
“It seems like a death sentence.”
“It can be, unless you find love,” he leaned down and whispered. His breath tickled my ear. Our faces almost touched. I leaned in ever so slightly. The doorbell rang. I instantly jumped back.
“Expecting company?”
“No,” he said sternly. “Wait up here.”
I did as he said and waited in the hallway. Shouting resonated from downstairs. My curiosity got the best of me, so I headed toward the angry voices. Two men wearing black suits stood facing Andrew. Their faces were stern. I wondered if their visit had anything to do with the diner incident.
Andrew looked back over his shoulder as my foot hit the last step, which creaked ever so slightly. The two men quickly looked over in my direction.
“A little brazen, don’t you think?” the shorter of the two men asked, nodding in my direction.
“Not your concern,” Andrew snapped.
“I bet he wouldn’t think so,” the other man said.
“He won’t ever know.” Andrew’s voice was cold and stern.
“Why’s that?” the shorter man questioned.
“Because no one is going to tell,” Andrew insisted firmly.
“We might not tell him directly, but it could accidentally get back to him,” the taller man suggested.
Andrew instantly slammed both men against the wall. I immediately froze, fearing another incident.
“This doesn’t leave here or else the consequences will be severe. Remember who runs the show,” Andrew growled.
“Yes, Mr. Alexander,” they both agreed, frightened.
He slowly released them and they quickly exited.
Andrew glanced over in my direction, his eyes fading from red back to green. He began walking to where I stood, but before he could reach me, another knock, or more like pounding, could be heard at the front door.
Andrew ripped open the door. Thomas Mitchell stood at the door with another man. Both men let themselves inside the house with a look of disgust upon their faces. Andrew reached out and pushed them both back. His inhuman strength forced their bodies back out the door.
“I didn’t invite you in,” Andrew snarled.
“No time to get angry,” Mr. Mitchell said calmly.
“I already spoke with a couple of your men, and we came to an understanding.”
“This is a personal request,” Mr. Mitchell remained calm, as he looked in my direction.
I was confused—how did Andrew and Braden’s father know one another? I was now confident that Keith Hamilton had seen me at the event the other night and informed Braden. Braden must have sent his father since he was in town, but that didn’t explain the first two men’s visit.
“Haley?” Mr. Mitchell’s voice interrupted my thoughts.
“Yes?”
“Grab your things, and get in my car,” he instructed.
“Why?”
Mr. Mitchell started walking toward me and then grabbed my arm. “I’ll explain later.”
I yanked my arm away. “No,” I said angrily.
“Haley, this really isn’t your choice anymore.” His voice deepened as he gritted his teeth.
“Tom,” Andrew addressed him casually. “Whatever you’re planning on doing, I’d advise otherwise,” Andrew said flatly as he gently placed my hand in his.
“She isn’t an option, there are plenty others that you can do with what you like, but not her. I won’t allow it,” Mr. Mitchell now demanded.
“You’d be right under normal circumstances, but this time you’re wrong,” Andrew glared.
Mr. Mitchell looked back down in my direction. “Haley, please just get in to my car, and I’ll explain everything. If you still want to come back, then it’ll be your choice,” he pleaded.
Andrew’s eyes were now focused on mine. “I‘m not going anywhere,” I insisted. “If this is some sick trick of Braden’s to scare me in to going back with him, then it’s a waste of your time,” I said angrily.
“Braden has nothing to do with this. If he knew about this, he would be down here in a heartbeat getting …” His voice trailed off.
“You’re foolish, if you expect me to believe your intentions are good,” I said.
“Haley, this has nothing to do with Braden.”
“Then what is it?”
“This isn’t safe.”
“Why’s that?” I asked, already well aware of Andrew’s true identity.
“No time to explain here,” Mr. Mitchell insisted.
“I’m not leaving.”
“She’s made her choice,” Andrew stated firmly.
“Haley, he’s no good.”
Andrew pushed Mr. Mitchell to the door, along with the other man. “I believe it’s time for you two to be leaving.”
“Mr. Alexander, I beg you, please anyone but her,” Mr. Mitchell pleaded as the door shut in his face.
I was horrified by what had just happened, but most of all I was confused. “What’s going on?” I trembled.
“It’s a long story,” he sighed.
“I don’t have any plans for the evening.”
“Haley, there are some things you don’t want to know.”
“Like the fact that you’re immortal? What could be worse than that?”
“Plenty,” he said stiffly.
“Try me,” I challenged.
&n
bsp; “No,” he said sharply.
“How do you know Mr. Mitchell?” I continued to ask questions. He wasn’t getting off this easy.
“Haley, I think it might be best to take you home,” he said, grabbing his keys.
“No, I don’t want to go home!”
“I wasn’t asking,” he snapped.
“Why…why do I have to go home?” I asked desperately.
“I have to clear a few things up. Take a deep breath and stop panicking.”
“Just take me to my car,” I said, hurt by his lack of concern. His face made it clear there was no convincing him otherwise.
“What happened here today stays just as quiet as everything else,” he said flatly.
“I get it already,” I snapped. “I’d never tell anyone.” I looked away.
His hand lightly touched mine. “I know you would never tell.”
“Why do you want me to leave?”
“I’m upset, and I won’t be able to concentrate with you around.”
“What if something happens to me?”
“Then I would be there within seconds, but I have to tend to this issue, and you have to leave,” he said icily.
“Can I ask you a question?” I asked, as I reluctantly slid into his car.
“Yes, but I cannot guarantee an answer.”
“How do you know him?”
“Like I said, it’s a long story, and now is not the time to explain.”
The rest of the drive was silent. He pulled up beside my car. “I’m so sorry, Haley.” He reached for my hand.
I jerked away before he could touch me. “Please don’t.”
“Haley,” he sighed. “I won’t be gone long.”
“Does that mean hours or days?”
“I don’t know. It could be today or tomorrow.”
“A day or two?” I asked in disbelief. The thought of not seeing him for so long seemed unbearable.
“You must be patient.” His phone interrupted our conversation. He retrieved it from his pocket and glanced down at the screen. “I have to go, but I’ll see you again soon. I promise.”
He softly brushed my cheek with the back of his hand. The same sparks flowed through my body—I wasn’t going to let this feeling slip away.
“I’ll try, but I cannot guarantee.”
“Don’t do anything hasty,” he warned.
Discern (Discern Saga, Book #1) Page 16