by KC Kean
Looking around the lounge, everything is exactly as I left it before I had to make my way to The Pyramid. The scrap of paper telling me they took Red still sits crumpled on the coffee table.
“Go get yourself sorted, I’ll organize in here.” There’s a pause before I hear, “Luna. Luna?” With a hand suddenly being waved in my face.
“Sorry, I’m good,” I say, shaking my head.
She waves her arms for me to get a move on, and I step into my bedroom, shutting the door behind me. I rest my head on the wood for a moment. Taking a few deep breaths, I try to calm myself, when I’m distracted by my phone vibrating in my pocket.
When Red had given it to me back in New York, the group chat with the guys had been filled with messages. I just hadn’t brought myself to read them yet.
Pulling my phone out, I have two messages. One from Rafe and the other a private message from Oscar… not in the group chat, huh? The preview that pops up has me opening the message instinctively.
Oscar: I’m going to try very hard to give my baby girl a minute’s space but don’t ignore me like I didn’t dick the hell out of you! The pounding you’re in for the next time I get my hands on you will be brutal, alone or not. Really though, baby girl. I’m not afraid to mark my territory, and you’re mine.
What the? This guy. I can’t help the little bubble of laughter that passes my lips at his words. His big mouth can make things completely worse or brighten my day, and right now it’s given me a little spark back.
Damn I needed that, but I won’t respond. As much as I want to, I’m still mad. Clicking through to Rafe’s text, I welcome the distraction from flirting back with Oscar.
Rafe: Hey, Juliana’s trying to straighten a few things out, may take a week. We still haven’t had Veronica or Rico pop up, but I’ll let you know as soon as that changes. Maria had Dietrichson pulled for business for the next two weeks, make the most of it. Please be careful, and patient.
Luna: Will do, thanks for the update. I’m getting impatient with all this waiting around, tell Juliana to work her magic ASAP.
I leave my phone on my bedside table and quickly slip into a pair of black cotton shorts and a purple tank top. I take a moment to brush my hair through and throw it up in a bun. Now I’m ready to face Red and her fifty questions.
I must have taken longer than I thought because there is a knock on the door as I step into the lounge. Red spots me, but shakes her head.
“I’ll get it, you sit,” she says, heading for the door. I sprint after her, and push her to the side before she can open it, my heart racing with fear.
The last time she opened my door she was taken. All because Featherstone needed a reason to force me to compete in the games. It was my fault the last time. I refuse to let it happen again.
I swing the door open to Kai standing on the other side. Pizza boxes and a bag hanging from one hand, and a tray of Frappuccinos in the other. My shoulders relax as the tension slowly leaves my body.
His eyes instantly fall to me, and I’m lost in his gaze. I mean he’s gorgeous already, but with all my favorite treats in his hand, can he get any hotter than that?
“Sakura, don’t worry, I’m not intruding. Jessica is using me as an errand boy,” he says, a smile playing on his lips.
“Thank you,” I murmur, unable to offer more than a small lift of my own.
I can see he wants to help in any way he can. He’s always been able to observe me and understand me, sometimes before I even know myself. Kai is not usually one to force his way in, but I can tell he wants to.
I’m still rooted to the spot as he steps in and places everything on the coffee table for us. He glances between Red and I for a moment when she speaks up.
“Kai, you can leave now. You’re imposing on girl time and we’re about to gossip about you. That can’t happen when you’re here, okay?”
I can see the surprise in his eyes by her outburst, but there’s a hint of amusement there too. He likes the idea of us talking about them, she's offering him something...hope.
“Sakura,” he murmurs with a single nod, then lets himself out. God, that was hard. The rumble in his voice has me wanting to step into his arms, and let him shield me from this crazy world. It’s a pity I’ve decided his safety is more important than my own needs right now, otherwise I’d be wrapped up in him already.
“Okay girly, let’s get our butts comfy. I chose a Marvel movie for you. I didn’t want to push you over the edge with girl talk and a chick flick,” she says with a wink, making me roll my eyes at her lame attempt to get all the gossip.
“Yes, there she is, with that bitchy eye roll I love so much! Woo, come on Captain, let’s go.”
This girl is crazy, but I find myself getting comfortable on the sofa as she throws a blanket over us and pulls the coffee table closer.
I’ve barely lifted my first slice of greasy meat feast amazingness to my lips when she’s twisting to face me.
“So, you like all the boys, huh?”
She catches me off guard mid-bite, making me choke. She’s not messing around with her questions.
I contemplate the best way to answer. I can tell if I say something that can be misinterpreted she’ll be Team Aceholes in a heartbeat, if she isn’t already.
“I did.”
“No, you still do. You’re just in denial,” she says, waving her pointed finger in my direction.
“I am?” I ask, avoiding her stare, not wanting her to see the truth in my eyes.
“Don’t play silly with me, Luna. We both know you have them wrapped around your pinky, and you all love it.”
“I can’t deny that I did, Red. It’s just … a lot has happened in the past week. Enough for me to reconsider all of my emotions and actions. Then for the cherry on top, Roman fucking monumentally lied this whole time too. It’s too much drama, and they are too much of a distraction.” I breathe out, stuffing more pizza in my face so I don’t have to spill my feelings for a moment.
I’m not used to talking about personal stuff so openly. I need to pace myself.
“Okay, I will get back to Roman and his broody ass omitting some truths in a minute, but first, we need to forget the past week.”
Is she crazy? I swipe a hand down my face, trying to wipe the pain of it all away.
“That’s pointless because before the past week everything was perfect.”
“Exactly, Luna. That’s my point. How did you feel this time last week?”
That’s a loaded question. This time last week? It was the day after the Fall Ball. God, was that really only a week ago? We’d had the most relaxing day after one of the best nights of my life. Well, after we left the Fall Ball at least.
Grabbing my Frappuccino off the coffee table, I distract myself, gathering the strength to answer her question. That’s when I see the black ink scrawled across my Frappuccino, ‘Sakura’. Fuck, everytime with the feels, Kai. Not cool.
“Last week? I felt amazing, Red,” I murmur, unable to lift my eyes from the side of my cup.
I feel her hand rest on my shoulder, squeezing in comfort. Turning my gaze, I meet her eyes. I didn’t think I could let myself relax around anyone like this, but she makes it feel natural to me.
“It’s all gone to shit, Red,” I mumble, as I avoid eye contact with her, trying to hide my feelings.
“Luna, it only goes to shit if you let it.”
“Red, taking Roman’s omission of the truth out of the equation, people with a lot of power at this school and within The Ring want me dead. I’m risking everyone around me. It’s better if I go back to being a lone ranger anyway, you just won’t listen,” I say, raising my eyebrow at her.
“Luna, I know this is going to be a shock to you, but this is my pre-warning, okay?” I nod in response, as she lifts her hand from me, and squares her shoulders. “Stop being so self-centered, it doesn’t suit you. We are here because we want to be. Trying to push everyone away to make yourself feel better? Well, it makes you bitchy and giv
es you the appearance of being a narcissist, and I don’t like it.” She huffs at the end, like that took all her energy.
Well then. I feel like I should be offended. Am I offended?
I stare at her pointy finger still floating in the air and the attempt of a stern look on her face. I know it took guts for her to speak the truth. I respect that, and I love her strength to be honest with me, no matter what.
“It's irrelevant what they want and safer this way.”
“But have you given Roman a chance to explain? Or given the guys a choice in all of this?”
“Nope.” I pop the hell out of that p, looking up to the ceiling.
“Do you need a timeout? Your bitch is still showing,” she murmurs, patting my leg as she stands. “Or do you need another drink to loosen up?”
I don’t have the energy to comment on her sass, so I just roll my eyes at her.
“Is there anything stronger?”
“It can be arranged,” she says, giving a little shimmy as she heads into the kitchen.
I sit, lost in my own mind, trying to understand how I feel.
Do I want this thing with the guys to be over? No, not really. I’m stuck between Roman omitting the truth and wanting to keep everyone safe.
“So, you’re going to push the guys away, to protect them?” she asks, as she waltzes back in with some glasses and the bourbon Oscar had stolen from the limo last week.
“It’ll be one less thing for us all to worry about. They need each other, that’s what matters.”
“They also need you, Luna. We could use their help here.”
“We don’t need anybody's help, Red. I’ve got this.” I frown. Does she not trust me to handle it?
“Don’t frown at me like that. I just mean more hands on deck, and all that.”
I don’t respond. I just watch her fill the glasses, and hand one over to me.
“Luna, I’m never going to tell you what to say or do, especially because I know it’s not your style to listen. I just think you need to remember how they made you feel because I believe you can get back to that in an instant.” She snaps her fingers. “You really should give Roman a chance to explain though. Think of the crazy hot make-up sex you could have.”
I can’t help but giggle a little at her and she joins in, relieved her words didn’t upset me.
“The make-up sex would be amazing. I just don’t know if I actually want to make up,” I say, gulping down the bourbon.
“Well I’m just saying, don’t cut off the peen that feeds you, okay?”
I cough on the sip I’d just taken.
“Red!” I splutter, as I check my top for spillages.
“What? Don’t even. You have still been holding out on all the details, girl, and I need them.”
Is she fucking pouting?
“I am not having this discussion with you, Red.”
“Fine, whatever. I’ll just ask Oscar, he’ll tell me,” she says, sticking her tongue out.
I’m too surprised by her comment to even respond, but she’s right. He’d definitely love that conversation.
“Anything else you want to discuss, or can we relax now?” I ask.
“Well, if you’re not going to give me any juicy details, I’m not really interested to be honest.” She gives me a fake glare but it’s not going to change my decision.
She holds my stare a moment longer, before finally giving in.
“Fine, let’s watch your action movie, and get some rest. Tomorrow is going to be a crazy day back into the world of Featherstone Academy, and I think you’re going to need the energy. I’m staying here tonight though, don’t even question it. Alright?”
I wasn’t planning on letting her leave anyway. So, I offer a classic Luna nod in response, and snuggle under the soft blanket.
I miss the presence of the guys. I wish they were here right now, but everything is fucked up, and I’m not sure we can ever get back to how things were.
CHAPTER FOUR
(Luna)
Standing in front of my floor-length mirror, I take in my appearance. The classic black, gold and red colors of my uniform fill my vision. Sadly, my feet weren’t injured in The Pyramid so I’ve had to put my heels on. I refuse to wear makeup. I’m gonna show these fuckers my black eyes and the gash on my forehead. I’m a damn survivor, again, and I’ll make sure they know it.
I was worried this morning when Red had to leave for L.F.G. It’s the only first period lesson on a Monday, and while I had a free period, Red had a lesson with Wren...alone. She promised she was ok, and not at risk, so I have to believe her. Otherwise, I’d keep her safely away from the drama. Like in a different country, away from it all.
Grabbing my handbag, I straighten my back and head out, ready for whatever this place wants to throw at me today. I take the stairs, slowly, in these stupid heels, and find the guys sitting in the lounge when I get there.
They all instantly rise, eyes on me, and as much as my soul loves their attention, I’m not prepared for any form of conversation. Plus, all the eye candy in front of me has me a little breathless, my brain is close to malfunctioning. Standing in their uniforms with their slightly damp hair, these Aceholes are just too fucking gorgeous. It’s infuriating.
Kai is the first to speak, with his hands lifted in surrender because I’m apparently that unpredictable.
“Good morning, Sakura. I promise we are only here to support you. It looks like everyone’s been tipped off that you’re back at Featherstone because every student that isn’t in L.F.G. is outside waiting to see you step out.”
I glance towards the door, and he’s right. It’s crammed with bodies, just like after I was jumped, except Wren isn’t there this time.
“They want to see the badass who wreaked havoc in The Pyramid ,” Oscar adds, gaining my attention.
I look him over, and his text comes to mind from yesterday. He must be able to tell where my mind just went because this motherfucker winks at me. I can’t help but roll my eyes at him. At least he didn’t ruin it with his big mouth.
“I don’t need you guys to protect me, you know,” I murmur, unable to hold any of their gazes, instead glancing back outside to the waiting crowd.
“We know, Luna. Things have changed from when you first arrived. The Pyramid changed everything. You’re feared now and they’ll want a glimpse of you. Fear equals power at Featherstone, and it’ll help if we stand with you,” Roman states.
“And why am I supposed to just listen to you, Roman?” I spit out, annoyed that I’m expected to just take his word for it like nothing has happened.
He sighs as he tries to find the right words to respond. “Rafe said to …” I cut him off with a burst of laughter I can’t keep in.
“Because Rafe said so,” I mock, glaring at him. “How's Rafe’s last bit of advice working for you?” I snap, angry that I’m allowing my emotions to get the better of me.
Completely done with all of this, I whirl around from Roman, heading for the door and find Parker behind me, despair written all over his face. Any comeback I was expecting from Roman is gone, as I’m instantly sucked into Parker’s hazel eyes and the pain that darkens them. Pain. I know deep down I’m the one causing it.
He doesn’t move towards me, he just stands before me making me peer into his soul. I offer the smallest nod in agreement, that I’ll let them stand with me, and the relief on his face is instant.
“Whatever you need, angel, okay?” Parker adds, and I almost whimper at the rasp to his voice. As if I dunked his head in the dark hole that consumes him and just as quickly pulled him out.
With a final nod, I squeeze his hand as I pass and make my way to the door. It opens automatically, and any chatter is instantly halted. The sun glares down on me as I glance towards the waiting Rolls Royces and spot Ian. I can barely see past the crowd, my skin burning with every pair of eyes on me. I feel the guys gather behind me, showing everyone we stand together.
There are questions on everyone’s fac
es but no one with big enough balls to ask them. So, I’m gonna have to remind them who I am.
“Any particular reason why you’re all fucking staring?” I growl. Nobody answers, they’re all shuffling awkwardly or looking anywhere but at me. That’s when I spot her.
Trudy.
Her blonde hair is curled and falling down her back like she spent hours perfecting it, and she has minimal makeup on. She’s not as tall as me, a little curvier, and she fucking owns it.
Remembering my words to her, I relax my posture and address everyone.
“I couldn’t give a shit how things are usually run around here. As of now I do things on my terms. If any of you are little minions of Wren’s, then please, run it back to her. You all saw what I’m capable of in The Pyramid. You also saw that violence isn’t the only way. Unfortunately, I know there will be more blood on my hands. Anyone who makes an attempt on my life will face the same outcome. This is the only fucking warning you’re going to get.” My voice is booming around us, full of confidence I wasn’t fully aware I had right now.
Trudy starts making her way to me, and I’m relieved she is ok. Everyone around us tracks her movement. Where is her brother? As she comes to stand in front of me she must sense my unspoken question.
“He has class, but he’s fine.”
I offer a nod but don’t say a word, not yet.
“Did you mean what you said? Back at The Pyramid?” she asks, and the words are fresh in my mind.
“I promise you after all this. There will be changes around here and you’ll be standing beside me, do you understand?”
Glancing around her, everybody is still standing around us as if they’re waiting for something more.
Looking back at Trudy, I see her fear, worried that I only said what I needed to say in The Pyramid to win.
“Yes, I meant every word.”
She gives me a nod, turning to stand beside me, facing out to the crowd.
“The Byrne’s stand beside the Steele bloodline, we’re done with Dietrichson,” she calls out loudly for everyone around us to hear. The students are surprised by her confession, including me.