The key for the Jeep was safely stashed away, and I knew I’d have to exchange vehicles quickly. I’d only found one tracking device, but I wouldn’t put it past my guardians to have installed another on my Jeep. Once I was clear, my first stop would be the bank—I needed cash. I’d have to work over the poor clerk, Joseph, once again. The same kind man who had helped when I was following the clue my parents had left me, telling me of my unknown inheritance. I could only hope this was the last place my guardians would chase me. The place my trail would end.
I wasn’t going to make the same mistake I’d made in November, although my guardians seemed to be growing antsy. Part of me worried that they were on to me and had figured me out, but another part reasoned that it was probably the growing threat of the Trackers and Tresez. Either way, I was going to have to be very careful. One slip-up, and I’d be trapped forever.
Daniel and I began our morning walk, Maes in tow. To my surprise, both Callon and Colt trailed behind us—they didn’t want me out of their sight. I waited until the three were out of hearing range before whispering, “Daniel, what’s up with everyone? They’re all following us today?” I kept my gaze forward, trying not to draw attention to myself.
“They’re becoming suspicious. I’m not sure how much longer I can keep this from them. They can see you’re different. They know something is going on,” Daniel murmured back.
“You haven’t told them, have you?” I asked in a panic.
“No, but they know I’m not telling the whole truth. I keep making excuses, and they’re becoming irritated. It’s not easy to hold them off when they’re constantly pestering me. You’ve got to tell them soon, Cheyenne.”
“I will,” I said hurriedly. “Just let me be the one. I’ll take the blame since I’m the one who put you up to this.” I knew it would come to this; they watched everything too closely. I thought back. I must have slipped up somewhere along the way. I was such an open book sometimes.
“Daniel?”
“Yeah?”
“How far can you jump? You said as far as you can see.”
“True. I can see the moon, though, but I can’t jump to it. I can only jump a few miles. There are limitations to every power.”
I sighed. At least I knew my limits.
“I’m sorry I put you through all this. I know this hasn’t been easy on you. One day I’ll repay you.” I blew out a breath. I really was feeling bad about using him.
“Don’t worry about it. I’ve had fun spending time with you and learning new tricks. It’s pretty cool that you trust me so much.”
“Daniel,” I said softly. “I trust you much more than you know.” I was so lucky to have him. He was the only real friend I had left.
We finished our walk, and I continued my normal routine for the morning. I didn’t want to seem too rushed, although I was becoming jittery on the inside. I sat in the closet and rechecked my bag, making sure it was ready to go and gathered my nerves. I searched the shoe where I’d left the key and found it missing. I plopped down on the floor, discouraged. Callon must have gone through my things while I slept. Did he see what was in my bag also? That would explain their restlessness earlier. My escape plans would have to change.
With no Jeep, I’d have to jump. I had a pretty good idea I could make it into town within half an hour. I could travel miles in seconds; however, I wasn’t necessarily good at controlling the jumps and had limited time to test them. Sometimes I didn’t get the mechanics straight in my head, so I really had to concentrate. I also didn’t know if using the powers drained them faster. It was much riskier than what I’d originally intended, but I couldn’t afford any more delays. It was now or never, and it had to be perfect.
I organized things in my head. Daniel would have to be the last one I borrowed powers from. Somehow I’d have to touch Callon, Maes and Colt within a few minutes and then touch Daniel without him knowing what I was about to do. If Daniel found out I was planning to depart, he would hold his powers back, and I’d be stuck. I’d have to trick him, and the thought made my stomach ill. I could only pray he’d forgive me.
I finished in the bathroom and made sure to wear the jewelry they had given to me at Christmas; Callon’s ring, Maes’s necklace, Daniel’s earrings and half of Colt’s bracelet. I wanted Colt to keep the other half right now, knowing he’d find it and bring it to me someday. They were coming with me in my thoughts, but nothing more. I grabbed my pack and headed for the bathroom door. Callon was waiting, and I jerked back in surprise.
He eyed my pack.
“What’s with the pack today?” Callon rumbled.
“Just wanted to do some research on my computer,” I replied, fighting to hold back my anxiety. “It’s my computer bag, Callon.”
I passed him, and he followed close on my heels as we headed for the kitchen. I lay the bag on the counter. Get on with it, Chey! I reached out and grasped his hand, leading him to the great room where the rest of my guardians were waiting. That same icy tingling rushed through my veins as I took Callon’s powers. I was sure he hadn’t revealed all of his powers to me. It was his style to hold back. I knew he could move quickly and hear better…but what else lay beneath the layers?
He moved his hand slightly, staring at his fingers as I led him near the couch. No time for testing them out now. As tempting as it was, I’d have to wait for another time…I turned towards Maes and Colt. One down, three to go…
“I need you two to sit next to Callon please. I have something to show you.”
I pointed the way and brushed Maes’s elbow as he passed. Instantly his head jerked up, and his jade-rimmed eyes met mine. I swallowed—I had his powers. Could I shape shift into a Tresez? I stepped back slightly and grazed Colt’s forearm. His blond head tilted in curiosity. My body prickled with his strength.
“Sit.” I pointed again and fought to control my nerves. “Daniel,” I called out and sucked in a breath as he appeared beside me. “You just love doing that to me, don’t you?” I said, trying to justify my skittish actions as my fingers wrapped onto his forearm, and the final icy sensation passed over me. I’d done it! Now…
I took a deep breath, trying to push away my guilt. Daniel was going to taking the brunt of the punishment when they figured out what was going on.
“We need to show them,” I said quietly, and he nodded in response.
We flashed across the room, and the trio on the couch seemed unimpressed. I released Daniel’s arm and disappeared, only to reappear directly in front of the trio. I glanced at my watch. I only had half an hour.
Suddenly my guardians realized what happened. Maes leapt to his feet and slowly approached, his arms outstretched.
“Mon espoir,” Maes said as his French accent deepened. “When did you learn to jump?” He stepped forward. “Is this one of your powers? Are you like Daniel?” He continued inching closer.
Callon calmly rose, closing the gap on the other side. His eyes fixated on mine, trying to draw my attention.
“Sweetheart, why didn’t you tell us sooner?”
Now that the secret was out, I wanted to laugh. They still didn’t quite see. Good.
A larger than life grin was plaster over Colt’s face as he rose. “Oh, love, you really are tenacious, aren’t you?”
“You have no idea,” I murmured.
I concentrated on the task at hand. I flashed over to the front door, then back to the fireplace. The others watched, amused.
“Catch me if you can,” I said, jumping to the counter where my bag was, before I scooped it up. Mr. Evasive, Colt, and The Hound were scrambling over the couch—still unaware they had no powers.
I jumped next to Daniel and kissed his cheek.
“I’m sorry, Daniel. I’ll make it up to you someday.”
I landed back at the front door before Daniel could grasp me. Relief washed over me as I glanced back. He wasn’t mad—he was smiling. He winked just as Colt caught hold of my arm.
“I think I’ve caught you…”
Colt said moments before his words were cut short.
With the jerk of my arm, he sailed through the air, colliding with Maes as I disappeared out the front door.
I was waiting on the driveway, at a safe distance from my guardians. Possessing their powers or not, I wasn’t willing to tempt fate to throw me a curve ball. Seconds passed, and the door flew open with all four piling out. Maes leapt into the air—and fell to the ground, stunned.
“Now, Maes,” I said with renewed determination. I watched him stand, looking at his hands in confusion. “I told you I wouldn’t give up. I warned you I’d find a way, and you wouldn’t be able to stop me.” A crooked grin crept over my lips. “You should’ve listened.”
Maes remained still. Callon was fuming.
My guardians were speechless. They knew I had been planning this all along, but they were totally unprepared for how I was going to do it. I was Timeless now; the constant danger of death was over. Their biggest worry at the moment was Marcus, and they didn’t need to babysit me anymore.
“I warned you I needed to figure things out on my own. I need to find myself. I told you I didn’t want or accept this destiny right now.” I paused to stare at Colt and Callon. “I’m growing tired of the wedge I’m driving between the two of you. I won’t have you fight over me and break this entire family apart. I won’t let you shatter my heart again. I was the fool once,” I whispered, “not twice.”
I hesitated, looking at my guardians for one last time. After all we’d been through, all the heartache and pain, the lies…and the unconditional love they’d given me…they were the only family I had.
A tear streamed down my cheek. I had to tell them how I felt; I needed to tell them I loved them. I had regrets about my parents, not saying it before they died. I made a solemn promise to never let it happen again.
“I love you,” I whispered.
Callon’s eyes met mine, and I watched what looked like fear flow through them…fear, regret and guilt.
I vanished.
Chapter 10
It took twenty seconds to make it to the main road. My guardians would already be on their way. I glanced at my watch. I’d eaten up fifteen minutes trying to leave—not good! I had no other choice but to head into town. I needed transportation.
I jumped myself forward, taking miles in seconds. It would take two to three minutes to reach town if I’d done my calculations right. Time was critical. I had to reach the bank to withdraw money, purchase a car and exchange my phone. All of this was based on the fact that I could continue making jumps consistently.
I was making good time to begin with, but my progress slowed when traffic suddenly became heavier. I hadn’t counted on so many cars traveling down this stretch of road, especially on a Friday. I couldn’t be seen jumping in front of them; it wouldn’t be safe. The thought crossed my mind about traveling through the forest, but the risk was too great. What if I ran into Tresez or Trackers while I was out there? Even if I didn’t, who was to say they couldn’t hunt down my scent and find me? I had to stay on the main road.
My precious time was ticking away…I was at twenty-two minutes, and I had yet to reach the outskirts of town. The roar of an engine caught my attention, and I watched in amazement as it pulled off the side of the road, stopping directly in front of me. My heart raced. I couldn’t believe my eyes. The same three men who had hit on me at the bar almost a year ago were back! The same three men who chased me down outside the library and attempted to kill me…
I stopped in my tracks, my eyes wide.
“You’ve got to be kidding…” I muttered.
Of all the times they’d show up…I didn’t have time to deal with this right now. Clenching my fists, I remained rigid as they exited their truck, their eyes wildly scanning the surrounding area for my guardians.
“Alone, darling?” the dark-haired one said as they began to circle me.
“We can help you out.” A twisted smile arose from another as he eyed me dangerously.
“Let’s take a drive, shall we?” The third man with the large scar across his neck pointed to the truck.
Another car whizzed by, whipping my hair up in a frenzy, and I glanced at my watch. I had two minutes left. I didn’t have many choices left—jump further down the road and be caught by the three quickly or make a mad dash into the forest, knowing they’d have to pursue me on foot.
Glancing behind me and then at the three who thought they had me cornered, I disappeared into the forest.
“What the—,” the words lingered in the air.
The trees flew by as I fought to remain standing after each jump. My shoulder hit the bark of a pine tree, and I was twisted around as I bounced to the forest floor.
“Over here,” a deep voice shouted.
The three men were running after me. Granted, they were about a mile away, but that distance continued to grow as I jumped miles in seconds.
I scrambled to my feet and darted to the left, struggling to stay on course. If I made it into town, I’d have a fighting chance. I could scream and someone would help—right? My thoughts blurred as I smacked into another pine. Luckily, this was just a sapling, but it acted like a rubber band, hitting the back of my head. Instantly, bright lights clouded my vision, and I forced myself to jump again. I didn’t have much time left to reach the safety of Helena if I paused for pain. This would be minor in comparison to what those three would do to me.
In the distance, the outline of an office building emerged, and I stumbled as I tried to jump again. My borrowed powers were used up. I’d have to battle through this on my own now. I looked behind me, and a lone crow cawed in the distance as it flew overhead. The men were nowhere to be seen for the moment.
I ran for the building, hoping to hide in the alley in order to scope out the bank’s parking lot, which was diagonal from me now. I’d maybe have a half hour before my guardians made it into town, if I was lucky. Callon had been fuming when I’d left. He’d be driving faster than normal. Dashing across the street, I slid behind a dumpster and peered around the side. The bank was within sight now. I was never so grateful it was on the outskirts of town.
Catching my breath, I scanned for any signs of danger. For now, it was clear. I rose, straightening my pack across my shoulder and strode hastily across the road and into the bank’s parking lot. It was ten a.m., and they’d just opened a half hour ago. My clammy hands grasped the door handle, and I said a quick prayer that Joseph would be working again today.
I was completely focused as I searched and located him in the far corner, intently studying some paperwork. He didn’t see me immediately.
I cleared my throat.
“Excuse me, Joseph,” I said somewhat quickly. I had no time for acting now. His gaze fluttered, and a large grin spread over his face as he recognized me.
“Well, hello, Ms. Wilson,” Joseph replied in surprise. “It’s been a while since we’ve seen you. I hope all is well?”
“Yes, thanks for asking.”
He paused. Did he want more conversation? I was in no mood to chat—it was wasting precious time. I shifted uncomfortably.
He seemed to notice.
“Now, what brings you here this lovely day?” he asked.
“I need to make a withdrawal from one of my accounts.”
Standing, he glanced towards the tellers. “Well, let’s get Linda to help you.” He moved to walk around his desk, and I lightly touched his arm. He abruptly stopped and stared at my fingers.
“Joseph, I’d really like your help.” I paused, unsure if he was actually hearing me. “You see, once again, I’m in a bit of hurry, and I need to withdraw a large amount of cash.” His gaze lifted. “I’d really like to keep this quiet because of the dollar amount involved. Could you take care of this for me, please?”
He blinked and then slowly replied, “Why, of course, Ms. Wilson. How much did you need to withdraw?”
“Seventy-five thousand,” I replied, relieved that my persuasion ability was stil
l intact. “I’ll need about forty thousand in larger bills, and the remaining in something smaller.” I waited as he absorbed this new request. “I also need to be out of the bank in about fifteen minutes so my ride doesn’t leave me.” I slowly glanced back at main entrance for added effect, knowing it was a complete lie and feeling guilty about it. My mother wouldn’t be proud, no matter how I tried to justify it.
“A lie is a lie.” I could hear her voice in my head.
“Why don’t you come into the back room while I get this ready? I won’t be long,” Joseph said.
I followed. This was working better than I’d hoped. I’d be hidden in a back room if my guardians arrived before I completed my transaction. I could escape out a back door without them knowing. He opened a small conference room door and ushered me in.
A weight dropped into the pit of my stomach. There was only one way in.
He smiled politely and left.
I paced back and forth in the small space, pressing my hand to my forehead. What was I thinking? I was trapped like a rat if my guardians found me now. I paused in front of the outside window, searching for any signs of them when a sandstone truck passed by. I drew the blinds closed and tried not to hyperventilate. Was it them or was I imagining it?
Time seemed to drag on as I waited for Joseph to return. I jumped as the door opened, and he entered.
He dropped a bag on the table and pushed some papers in front of me. “Here you go, Ms. Wilson.”
“It’s Cheyenne,” I said. “You can call me Cheyenne.”
“Cheyenne,” he said thoughtfully. “I just need you to sign these papers, and we’re good to go.” He cleared his throat as he handed me a pen.
I leaned over the small table and signed on the dotted line. Hastily, I shoved the money into my pack. “Thanks for your time.” I touched his forearm once more, moving closer. “I hope I wasn’t too much of a bother for you?”
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