She prudishly stepped behind a tree. She pulled her wet clothes off, and slipped into the warm, wonderfully smelling sweatshirt. She shoved the wet stuff into her pack, and stepped timidly back into the open. “Thank you,”
He turned around. “Better?” He smiled at her nod.
“Won’t you be cold?” She stepped closer, trying to keep her eyes from what the his unveiling had revealed, and his tshirt did not hide. It was a near impossibility. She occupied herself by ringing out her wet hair.
“No, not at all.” He swallowed when she came even closer.
“Are you sure?” She thought of the warmth that came from him. “You’d think the cool air…and the rain heading this way might be problematic.” She stood in front of him.
“Not for me. I’ll stay warm. “
She smiled, shaking her head. “Is there anything imperfect about you?” She studied his frame, bolder now than before.
“There’s more then you know,” he whispered. He had made a mistake, he could feel it. He let his desire to be around her over rule what he was supposed to be focused on.
Turk barked ahead, as if to tell them to hurry.
Her blue eyes lifted to his. “You know, I have not been with anyone for this long, other than my best friend for years.”
“I know.” His silvers suggested he knew more than he was allowed to reveal.
“I haven’t felt safe enough to. You make me feel safe Silas.” She lifted her hand slowly, to him, and touched the warm exposed skin. She saw goose bumps rise where she touched. “I thought you weren’t cold?” She glanced up at him.
He sucked in a breath. “Raina…”
"I'm sorry," she whispered. I shouldn't be so bold with you. Why is it that I'm so drawn to you?" Her face held frustration. She leaned her forehead against his heart. Her arms wrapped around him.
He felt his skin tingle where her fingers met at his spine. “Raina, you can’t”
“What am I doing,” she mumbled against him.
He closed his eyes. He could hardly stand not to wrap his arms around her too, hug her close. He had no right, and so he had to stop this!
“Raina? “
She looked up at the gentle way he said it. “Yes?”
“Raina, you need to wake up.”
“W-what? I don’t understand.”
“Wake up Raina,” he whispered against her hair. “Wake up!
“I don’t want to! Please Silas, will you stay?”
“No, time to wake up!”
Raina jerked up with a gasp. The rough bark of the tree bit into her back. Turk jumped up to her rescue.
She blinked, looking around her. She glanced to her left, where Silas had knelt, or so she thought. Her clothes were dry, her discarded lunch bag rested beside her. Acute disappointment ran through her. It had been a dream! She was right back where she had fallen asleep.
Absolute disappointment flooded through her, and she felt that she may start to cry out of pure frustration. Thunder rumbling stirred her into action.
“We have to hurry, that rains coming,” she whispered to Turk. She stiffly got to her feet, brushing leaves from her slacks.
“If only I could fall asleep and continue my dreams,” she sighed, then giggled, despite her disappointment.... then headed for home.
Chapter 2 Changes
Raina woke up the next morning in a foul mood.
After she let Turk out, she poured her first cup of coffee, and of course the phone rang. She sighed, and picked up her cell. “Hello?”
“Raaaaain,” Emily’s voice sang over the phone. “I’m on my way, and I’m bringing donuts!”
Raina looked down at her rounded hips and groaned. Emily would chastise her when she complained about her figure.
“Don’t say it Rain! Your body is beautiful….I’m the one without a curve to my body! Now have the coffee ready…I’ll be there in ten!”
The phone clicked dead before Raina could protest. “Good morning to you too.”
True to her word, Emily appeared at her door ten minutes later. A big smile on her face! Her dark eyes twinkled, as she passed Raina the donuts and let herself in. “Turkey,” she greeted the excited dog.
“Coffees on the counter….two sugars and a little milk,” Raina laughed. She was already digging through the donuts.
Raina sat down and wrapped her hands around the warm mug before her. She glanced thoughtfully out the back door.
Emily picked up her mug, and sipped with appreciation. She joined Raina at the table, dark eyes examining her. “Something is different.” She reached over and covered her friend’s hand. “What’s up with you Rain? You’re not exactly excited, but there’s something in your manner this morning. What are you hiding from me?”
Raina blushed. She didn’t know if she wanted to go into all the details…but this was her best friend! “Nothing, just silly imaginings and strange dreams.”
“You slept?” Emily’s eyes lit.
“A whole night, well, two nights in a row,” Raina admitted.
“And what of these dreams? Dreams mean you slept deeply, right?
“It felt as if I were awake though…the dreams were so real Em. I can still see every detail, and remember every word spoken.” Raina smiled at the memories. “I never once,” she came to an abrupt end. She looked down at her half eaten glazed donut. “I feel ashamed to say, but I didn’t once think about David in these dreams….I always dream, or at least think of him when I dream.”
Emily smiled warmly. “It’s okay Rain…You’re allowed to. You know David would hate that you’ve isolated yourself.” She set her chin on her hand…”Now, I would very much like to hear these dreams.”
Raina blushed again. “Promise you won’t laugh?”
Emily crossed her heart, so Raina poured out every detail.
When she completed her little story, including the episode with Turk in the back yard, Emily sat with her mouth wide open.
“What?” Raina’s blues looked concerned.
“N-nothing,” Emily stuttered. “I’m…well, I’m jealous! Two beautiful men wanting you? And a virtual day with a gorgeous man?
“Only the one said he wanted me,” she argued. “Not Silas.”
Emily grinned with mischief. “The one you’d rather hear those words from?”
Raina sipped her coffee. She had felt warmed, revealing her dreams. Yet she felt ashamed that she was drawn toward the soft spoken stranger, who smelled so wonderful! “Emily it truly felt real,” she said softly. “And I have no idea what to make of it!”
Emily shrugged. “It’s a sign of healing….and…” she got a twinkle in her eyes. “It’s a sign that I should finally make a suggestion!”
“What kind of suggestion?”
“Brad and I are going to a business dinner tonight with one of the partners. We’ve gone out with him once before, and he’s single...”
“No!”
“Raina! Come on…you can sit around waiting for dream boy to come, or you can start looking for him! I’m not saying this man is the one…but you’ll be in safe company, with Brad and I, so no pressure. Just dinner.” She pouted. “Please Rain?”
Raina closed her eyes. “As long as you pay,” she teased with exaggerated irritation.
Emily squealed and leapt up to hug her. ”Oh, you won’t be disappointed! He’s so handsome! You will flip!”
Raina looked up sharply. “No pressure, right?”
Her friend quickly calmed down.
“Now you have to help me find something to wear,” Raina ordered.
The joy was back on Emily’s face in an instant.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Oh Rain,” Emily exclaimed, as Raina came down the stairs. “You look beautiful!”
Raina did look radiant in her little black dress. Her blonde hair was fashioned in pretty waves, which suited her layered hair well. She had a thin white gold necklace around her neck, and her wedding ring graced it. It was a big step for her to not w
ear it on her finger. She had little makeup on, but she didn’t need much. She had a natural beauty, and pretty fair skin, that had its own glow.
“Are you sure this is ok?” Rania’s voice trembled.
“Oh, absolutely," Bradley crooned from beside Emily. “Yes, Clay will be pleased.” He gasped when Emily ribbed him with her elbow.
He heard her hiss of "Bradley McRay."
He grinned. "He will like, whether that’s her intention or not my love." He kissed his wife cheek, his blue eyes flashed devilishly.
“No pressure,” she growled.
“Clay?” Raina’s eyebrow rose.
“Oh no, not another name meaning, “Emily groaned.
“Well, I can’t help it, its instinct with me.”
Bradley humored her. “And what does it mean?”
Raina offered him a smile. “It means immortal.”
“Interesting,” he nodded. “Well. He will be “forever” thankful that we brought you along!”
“This isn’t for Clay, this is for Rain,” Emily stated firmly.
Bradley grinned down at his wife. “Regardless of why she is there, Clay will definitely be pleased.” He stepped forward to kiss Raina’s cheek. “You look lovely my dear. I’m glad you decided to come with us tonight.”
Raina nodded. “I am too…it’s been a very long while.” She flashed a smile.
Despite the fact she knew this was no set up, Raina felt the butterflies. She had not been to a public place like this in nearly two years. She would go down to the little market down the road for groceries. Everything else she ordered on line. She wasn’t sure how she’d handle so many people being around. Involuntarily her mind flashed to an image of Silas. Would she be nervous if he were there? Probably not, but her whole body would be a riot of butterflies, whereas now, it was simply her tummy.
They were seated at a booth in a back corner. It wasn’t a big lavish place, but it was beautiful, and there was a violinist playing the sweetest songs.
“This is a wonderful place,” she complimented the waiter as he brought them their waters. “And a dance floor? Emily, I’ll have to steal Bradley! It’s been ages since I danced!”
Bradley grinned. “Maybe you can take a turn around the dance floor with Clay?”
Raina glanced away. Dancing with a friend was one thing, but she didn’t think she could be so intimately held in a stranger's arms. Immediately she pictured Silas, and her willingness to be in his arms. She blushed, and quickly grabbed her water, stating it was far too warm.
“What have you been up to Raina?” Bradley tried to change the subject.
She gave a small shrug. “Reading mostly,” she admitted lamely.
“Will you ever return to teaching? “ He scowled at Emily when she elbowed him. “What? It’s a perfectly legitimate question… Raina always loved teaching!”
Raina nodded “I did. And to answer your question…I don’t know. I know I need to live…David would hate what I’ve become. I just feel empty without him.”
Emily smiled. “Rain, this is the first step….we got you out of the house of all things!”
Raina glanced about nervously at the reminder. “Could I get a glass of wine perhaps?”
Bradley chuckled, and motioned to the waiter.
Raina turned her study to the people around her. She smiled at a curious little girl who stared without shame. She watched an elderly couple in the corner, who held hands across the table. Her heart skipped. She felt a wash of jealousy. To grow old together…she always thought that would happen for David and her. She looked away quickly, blinking at tears. No sadness tonight, she’d be human tonight!
“I hope I’m not too late. I apologize for the wait.”
Raina’s head snapped up at the voice. She would have known it anywhere, and it sent chills up her spine. Thanatos! She felt the blood rush from her face. It was that face and that voice….yet his hair was short now, still just as blonde…and eyes just as green.
She felt the urge to run, to scream, as he stared down at her. His eyes held a knowing, and a danger.
“Clay,” Bradley greeted, getting to his feet, and extending his hand. “You know my wife Emily, and I’d like to introduce our friend, Raina.”
Raina swallowed, trying to calm her silly fears. This was not the same man…that would be impossible.
Clay’s eyes rested on her again, and he grinned. “A pleasure to meet you.” He took her hand and raised it to his lips. Raina nearly protested, but something in his gaze said not to. And she did not return the compliment. She did feel the tingle that traveled up her arm, starting from the point he had kissed her hand.
He was incredibly handsome, that was for sure. How had she dreamed about this same person? Her mind was playing tricks on her, she was certain.
“I’ve heard good things about you Raina.”
She forced a smile. “That is nice to hear…of course Emily and Bradley are biased. “ She thankfully accepted the glass of wine from the waiter. She could still feel the green eyes examining her, as she sipped. “What is it that you do?” she asked politely.
Amusement clouded the perfect features. “I work in investments, for companies in particular. That’s how I met Bradley here.”
Bradley chimed in, “And doing remarkably! We’re keeping him!”
“A lot of luck,” Clay teased. “Plus I’ve been doing it a long while.”
Raina couldn’t look away from his face. “H-how long?”
Clay grinned. “Too long.”
“An old soul then?” She attempted a joke, which her friends laughed at, but not a smile touched Clay’s lips. She shivered pulling the sweater she had brought over her shoulders She lifted her eyebrows in question, half to intimidate, half to have proven she had no fear of him.
He stared back; it seemed he was daring her to elaborate
She cleared her throat, feeling another uncomfortable chill. Her mind grasped for something, anything to change the mood.
“Did you just get a haircut?” She blurted out.
Bradley cut in. “Actually…when I saw him yesterday afternoon he still had a mop,” he laughed.
Clay cleared his throat. “It was time for a change.”
“It’s nice,” she complimented to be polite.
The green eyes raked over her face. “Thank you, beautiful.”
Raina blinked at the familiarity in his words.
“So, as pleased as I’m sure you are because of our guest, Clay, this is a working dinner. Down to work.” Bradley closed his menu with authority. “Did Gregor finish those reports we needed?”
They went on to some technical lingo, which Raina tuned out. She swirled her wine around, then took another sip. She gave a sideways glance to the man beside her. He had beautiful eyes...the color was a remarkable ochre, and very expressive. He had arrogance about him...but rightfully so. Anyone with his beauty....had that right. He was well spoken, and, she figured, could disarm about anyone with his charm.
Raina felt her friend’s eyes on her. Emily’s brows were lifted in question, and she seemed quite pleased with herself, Raina returned her eyes to her wine, not giving her friend the benefit of an answer.
Why was it so important that she be taken by this Clay? She didn't know him, and felt it was quite unfair that her friend would expect so much from her!
“Well, did you bring the paperwork?” Bradley’s voice cut through her foggy thoughts. He sounded a little irritated.
“No,” Clay said with a slight shrug. “I figured I’ll give it to you tomorrow.”
Bradley’s mouth went stiff. He pulled back the sleeve of his jacket, and then reached in his pocket. “Gregor will still be there, he can drop them off for me.”
Clay stiffened. “Not necessary.” His voice was cool. “I’ll give them to you first thing tomorrow.”
Bradley shook his head, lifting the phone to his ear. “I have a presentation first thing tomorrow, I need to look at those stats tonight…..Hey, Gregor!” He gri
nned. “”Yeah, having a nice dinner so far, except one thing. Clay failed to bring those reports.” He paused to listen to the other gentleman. “Exactly!” He laughed.
Raina noticed Clays fist tighten. She scooted a little away, taking her wine glass with her.
He glared at her, and then softened his look.
She had seen anger there though, despite his attempt to cover up. She looked back to Bradley, who chuckled again.
“Well, would you mind bringing them to me? I’m going to a friend’s house after dinner.” He glanced up at Raina. “Are we still going to your house for wine?”
She nodded dumbly, glancing at Emily who gave an encouraging smile. Raina racked her brain, making sure the home was presentable, also trying to remember when she agreed to this in the first place.
‘Raina?”
She glanced back to Bradley. “What?”
Bradley laughed…”May I give Gregor your address, so he can drop of my paperwork?”
She gave a nod. “Certainly.”
Bradley patted her hand, noting her nerves. “Ok, buddy. We’ll be there in about two hours. I’m sure you’re more than welcome to join us.” He glanced at Raina to be sure, and saw her approval.
Might as well, she thought to herself. She’d already pushed her boundaries today!
“Great, thanks Gregor, we’ll see you then!” Bradley tucked the phone back into his pocket. “Gregor to the rescue once again. You should never be without your wingman Clay…as long as you can be the face... he can be the brains!”
Raina could feel Clay tense, she had no physical contact, but she felt it physically.
“Hmmm, so the pet was at the office still?” He chuckled. His ochre eyes darkened to the color of seaweed, and Raina felt a shock of warning in that change.
‘You’d do well to follow his example!” Bradley chastised.
Raina almost wished to speak a warning to Bradley, but in the same instant she felt Clay’s mood relax. She dared a look at him, and he smiled at her, coolly...but oh so handsomely.
"I will keep that in mind," he murmured.
Raina couldn't turn away from his compelling stare. She figured Emily was doing a dance in her head, thinking the connection was transpiring.
The Awakening (Wake Up #1) Page 3