I honestly can't believe the amount of positive feedback I am receiving but hey, this is not me complaining, I love it! I just never thought my writing and story style would get this amount of favorites, followers, and reviews and it's really encouraging you guys, so thank you! Please continue to share with me even if it's a simple sentence or a huge paragraph~
Readers Note: This chapter is long, the longest chapter yet that I have written, and it is also the turning point to this entire story. So you better prepare your battle stations- lol. Also, I have already started writing chapter 8 so I hope to get it out to you guys right on schedule! So yeah, I've flushed out the story some, nothing super detail and major, but enough to get a coherent start to finish (So there is still room for me to be interactive with my readers like take on suggestions, so forth) and right now this story sits at roughly 15 chapters. I've also been asked some questions regarding my other story; Tainted Reality. I'd like to say that I will have a new chapter up for it soon and that I don't plan to abandon it. I have a lot planned for Aurora, the Emerson's, and the Lost Boys in that story but it will take me awhile to give it updates compared this story because Tainted Reality is really story focused.
I want to personal thank and respond to VampireDentistry- since you are a guest I can't message you privately like I try to do most of my reviewers: "Thank you so much for both the reviews on chapter 4 and chapter 6. I am very happy that I am making this story new and interesting and that you enjoy the way I write the characters. I'm pretty neutral when it comes to Star but just like you said; when writing a story you just have to put that sort of thing aside. I've seen/read many of them where there is legit bashing and basically 'off with her head' mentality and I wanted to not be ranked up in that category. I honestly understand her motives, though technically don't agree with her overall character, and wanted readers to at least become aware of them in a different light then what the movie tries to showcase it in. Even if it is a semi-reasonable motive. Anyways, believe me, I would have punched her too if she tried that with me in person but atlas Jackie is recovering from basically dying so she's sort of running on low fumes. As for Michael, well, though he does go all 'hands-on' with Jackie I mainly did that to give an insight to his primal vampire like emotions- that he is running on raw frustration and anger. In the end, like you said, Michael's really is just a kid who got in over his head and I am glad that I was able to get my readers to come across that notion without me spelling it out, lol. Lastly, I'm happy that my OC Jackie is slowly gathering a fanbase despite her, well, her dark humor with a touch of psychological issues and I look forward to the possible future reviews be them short or long ones!"
Without any further ado, other than to expect blood and mayhem, let's begin this chapter.
|CHAPTER SEVEN: FIGHT OR FLIGHT|
"It is impossible to not hurt someone. Humans unconsciously hurt others by simply existing and whether you are alive or dead, you keep hurting people.
So getting involved will hurt them, but trying not to get involved might hurt them too.."
When I became aware of my surroundings again I made no effort to crawl off the couch, I felt no need really. Instead, I laid there in almost complete blackness since there was no barrels lit but without the flames decorating the inner walls I could finally take notice of the small slivers of cracks in the ceiling, mainly above the chandelier-fountain. Tiny little light beams danced with the reflective decorations that still adored the chandelier as well as pooling to the floor in small circles, basically creating dots to now scatter the floor in small sections on the ground. Essentially informing me that it's still daylight hours but what time it is, like most of the time since being here in this universe, I do not know. It didn't really matter to me either way at the moment as I laid comfortably on the sofa staring up into darkness, my mind lingering on thoughts. I felt better, not sluggish or nauseated, but the slightest of movements remained as a reminder that I am worn out as my body goes. Especially my upper back and stomach. Being slammed around in the alley really bruised me up but it wasn't something that will actually impair me in the long run for my pride is still strong, just the muscles feel fatigued more than anything. It was my mind that is nearly ready to fly the white flag if we want to be specific.
Blinking I reached my right hand up above my body as if I could touch the ceiling from my spot on the couch and allowed myself to delve deeper into my thoughts. How will I handle things tonight being in the forefront of my thought process; Like, how can I make Michael feed if he doesn't do it on his own and will I even go with the guys? That if I do go can I handle what will happen? Can I really manage to watch a massacre of innocent people- well technically I don't know if those guys on the beach are 'innocent' per se- in person because seeing it on a screen is one thing, you know with the special effects and all that, but in person is an entirely different approach. Even with just the mundane things like the cave, I am currently residing in has been so vivid compared to the movie. So there is no doubt in my mind that the bloodshed will be equally, if not more, vivid.
Curling my fingers and rotating my wrist I stretched the tendon there before bringing my knuckles down so I can look them over. Both of the middle knuckles are slightly torn while the others are swollen; my prize for going on the offensive and openly brawling it out with big-man, Lucas. On that reflection. I inadvertently got two guys killed yesterday, spoke up that little voice in my head. The Lost Boys clarified that Joey and Johnny are dead and gone, that they fed on them, and people that they feed on don't survive so it's best to assume that they are long gone. There is no doubt about it. The two were most likely thrown into the ocean for the tide to sweep them away so the marine life could take over from there or maybe just dumped in the nearby dumpsters, who knows. Either way, I had to do what I did to survive, so just like yesterday, I don't really feel remorse for them. If I didn't act like I did I would have been a disposable 'fuck toy' because I don't honestly believe that Johnny would have ever really planned to let me live to tell the tale of his unlawful accomplishments. And if he did, then he really didn't plan that through, from a logical point of view because I wouldn't have kept my mouth shut like some Stockholm victim.
After laying here for however long it took to think about those subjects I finally sit up and begin to go through my morning routine. A routine that I have established since living here in the Sunken Hotel. So after folding the wool blanket and laying it across the back end of the sofa, I stretched. After stretching I comb through my hair then gather my belongings which mainly consist of my crop jacket and hightop converses at the moment. It honestly felt weird to not be wearing my Disturbed sweater or any undergarments to be exact. I don't want to get too personal here but just allow yourself to imagine going commando with tights being the only thin material between you and the world. Unless you do that all the time, for some reason, then you must understand how I feel right now. It's just different, like feeling bare while being clothed, kinda different. At least they are not the see-thru verity but more of the workout legging type. After gathering up my belongings, shoes on my feet and a bag full of hygiene products and undergarments, I head out to the exit with a water bottle in hand but before trudging up the rocky stairway I glance to the shadowy remains of a hotel.
I could just faintly see Star and Laddie sleeping outlines with what little light penetrates this place and even though they are only half-vamps the daylight hours seem to have drugged them into an unconsciousness coma of sorts. Almost as bad as being a full-vamp would at least from my understanding. I stood there for a moment longer just watching the motionless bodies slumber with the faintest notion that they are even breathing. What I had said to Star before day break was still fresh in mind and I knew that she and I would not see eye to eye for awhile, if not forever. Did I feel bad for her, yes, but am I going to allow her to destroy what I am trying to bring to fruition? No. With that, I turned around and ascended up the path to outside deciding that I'll fight that battle when it rears its ugly head.
The sun sat further down in the sky then I would have liked but by estimating its position I assume it would be a few hours before sunset so I had some time to spare. Carefully I walked away from the bluff until I could climb down safely to the beach and began my walk along its shores till I reach the boardwalk. Kicking up sand with my shoes as I took small sips of my bottle water along the way, expecting this walk to possibly take forever.
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The almost scolding hot water cascading down my body practically makes me want to curl up and sleep. It just felt that good. Overall it's amazing to have a proper shower for I've never really been a bathe in a bathtub type of person, but I also knew that the beach showers can't run steaming hot water for very long. In fact, I think I was even lucky to get passed the lukewarm stage. So with that mindset, I basked in the water for just a minute longer before going about shampooing and scrubbing myself clean, finally getting a proper wash. By the time I was rinsing myself off the temperature of the water fell to what I believe to be the proper temp for a beach shower, that just slightly warm but still consider cold level, so I quickly escaped the cooling waterfalls to towel off and dress. The bathroom shower thing-place only had one more occupant when I arrived but now the place is completely empty which I really didn't mind. Taking advantage of being alone I tugged on a black basic sports bra and then the closest thing I could find to 'boyshorts-styled' panties of this decade before slipping on a fresh pair of black and white vertically striped leggings- kinda reminds me of beetlejuice. Now that I think about it that movie won't even comes out until next year, man, it feels odd being stuck in the eighties. In the past. On top of that came a plain black v-neck shirt then over that my abused but adored jacket which I had to beat some more to get some of the sand off it.
After checking out my appearance in the same bathroom mirror that I used just two days prior I came to the conclusion that I look like crap no matter the number of times I splash water on my face, rub my eyes, or slap my cheeks. I have this veil of gray hovering over me if you can picture that, where my hair looks dull along with my already pale complexion. Even my forest green eyes seem stale but I think it has something to do with my run in with death. You know, after being tossed around like a rag-doll and losing a good amount of my blood, but I think what really puts the icing on the cake for me though is the lovely cut on my slightly swollen lip and the light purple blush on my right cheek. I mean, It really brings out my character- sarcasm intended. But at least it's not super noticeable.
When I finally stepped out of the little building I took note of the sun again and its position. The walk to the Boardwalk took longer than expected for the motorcycle rides feel like they only last about twenty minutes tops so than the walk there felt like two hours or more roughly estimating, and now the sun was dipping low enough to touch the horizon. Which by doing another rough estimation tells me I have about thirty minutes to get back to the cave. Yeah, that's not gonna happen. There's no way I can magically make that work. Fuck ever walking those trails again anyways, if I can help it. The walk here, though beautiful in its own relaxing way, was extremely sore on the feet and just loooonng. So instead of trekking back and still getting chewed out- cause I expect that David will not be pleased with my absence, I decide to walk in the opposite direction to the dirt road that will lead me to Emerson's house.
But atlas, the walk to their house took longer than thirty minutes so by the time I stood on the doorstep ready to knock on the dark wooden door the sun had fully set anyways. Now only warm blankets of the left-over rays decorated the cloudy sky in an array of reds, orange, purples, and dark blues. So I knew that the boys will be fully aware that I am gone in a matter of minutes but hopefully my actions will make up for it, for I wasn't here at the Emerson's house for no reason. On the contrary, I'm here to personal make sure Michael will not do something stupid. Like not showing up kind of stupid. A no show Michael seeming worse to me right now than that of being flicked on the nose by David, metaphorically speaking of course. I can't really picture the big bad, tall dark and scary, Vampire giving me a flick on the nose like I'm some disobedient dog.
Lifting my hand I gave the door a rhythmic tap then stood waiting for someone to answer while quietly wondering over who it would be; Lucy seems plausible but she is also cooking so maybe not. In fact, I could see her asking for someone else getting the door. Michael is a maybe that is if he is even awake and ready. That leaves Sam who seems like the best choice but that depends if the Frog brothers have already arrived or not. Which I don't think they have if I remember correctly. Though lastly there is their grandfather who has no actual name, but I honestly doubt he'd be the one to answer.
Even from my perch on their step with my human nose I could smell the dinner that Lucy is conjuring up for Max and it made my stomach clench, almost like a punch in the gut as if to remind me that I have not had a proper meal in over forty-eight hours. I mentally note that I need to buy something to eat soon but maybe after the beach scene, you know, in case I up-chuck since I'm not sure how I will handle it all. I'm still trying to figure out if I will even go though a part of me already accepts the fact that I probably should. Around the time I'm contemplating when Max should be arriving which isn't until around eight if I remember correctly but without a lack of a watch- something I really need to invest in buying- I have no idea what time it is and assume it's only around seven, is when the door finally clicked open to swinging inward. Sam stood in the doorway with a confused expression as if trying to figure out if he has seen me somewhere or why I am here in the first place. He probably expected to see Alan and Edgar not some beat up chick.
Alright, Jackie, you got this. Slap on a friendly face and tap into that novice high school drama skill you received during that stupid Guys and Dolls play.
"Hey." Came my short and sweet response before sweeping through the open archway. Not giving him the time or day to register my action before it was too late. It's not like I can say; 'Hi, I'm a friend of Mike's, can I come in?' Yeah, I think that would have earned me a door slam to the face as Sam would instantly begin to theorize that I too am some 'bloodsucker'. Which hey, his brother seems to only be hanging out with that type of crowd, so technically it wasn't such a far fetch assumption. The thing is, is that I am not a vampire. Hell, I'm not even sure I am a pure-bred human at this point.
"Whoa, wait, what'd you're doin' just bargain in here, huh?" he asked my retreating form as I made it further into the foyer to stop at the mirror, giving it a tap where my face is located. My reflection looking over my shoulder to make eye contact with the frizzled dirty blond teenager. Like most of this movie plot, the kid barely had a back story and any true details to him other than being a 'fashion victim' of the eighties along with collecting comics. It was never even really established how old he is, like the rest of everyone else, other than that he is a young teenage boy but seeing him in person I'd say he's about fifteen. I turned to face him, my upper back leaning comfortable against the cool surface of the mirror as I cross my arms, cutting him off before he could ask any more questions.
"I'm a friend of Michael's. The names Jackie by the way, It's a pleasure to meet you." I went off like we are holding a normal conversation."- and to answer your question, I'm here to pick him up. We have a 'date' I guess you can say." Sam's current expression of irritation wavered to one of confusion then it fell on the breach of fear. Just as I thought he would begin to spew nonsense about vamps anyways he's eyes darted to my reflection. Taking in the fact I have one, a solid one at that, which made him fumble back mentally no doubt. Before he could open his mouth to throw more questions at me I heard footsteps which drew my attention away. The person spoke, a smile in their voice, unintentionally cutting off Sam as our eyes met.
"A date you say, dear?" It was Lucy, her holding a piece of her apron up to dry her hands with it, that motherly expression on her face. I gave her a smile in return, secretly hoping she won't recognize me from the first night I stumbled into the video store, but from what I could tell she didn't seem to realize who I am. At least she didn't show that she did anyways.
"Yes, Ma'am," I replied politely while nodding my head to give emphases. "I hope that is okay?" I asked while turning to face her completely, no longer resting on the mirror like some rebel.
Lucy looked like she was thinking about the concept as she gave her apron a final pat, "No it's fine. I didn't expect Michael to be running off tonight, though.." she trailed off then gave her head a gentle shake with a short chuckle as she turned away. "That boy hardly ever tells me anything anymore." Out of respect, I followed after her, the smell of her cooking slapping my senses all over again upon entering the kitchen.
"That smells absolutely mouth watering, Ma'am." came my compliment as I took a tentative sniff of the food in a pot that currently occupies the stove top. My action earned me another mother like a giggle from the petite-framed lady.
"Oh sweetie, there is no need for all that sweet talk. Just call me Lucy." I gave her a nod of understanding before she bent down next to me to check on the food in the oven. To give her space I backed up to the archway of the door, Sam falling to my peripheral vision since he was already standing there watching me closely. Lucy pulled whatever was in the stove out carefully and placed it on an empty spot next to the pot, slipping the mittens off. "You know, you two can stay for dinner if you like." she offered.
I shook my head still keeping a smile on my face to soften the decline. "Oh, no, but thank you. We already have dinner plans." I answer verbally for her. Half of it wasn't entirely untrue either. In retrospect, Michael did have dinner plans it just didn't necessarily involve me or a meal that most of the human population would find edible let alone enjoyable to digest. "Um," I made a point to look over my shoulder, past Sam, to the stairwell. "Is it okay if I go up the stairs to see if Mike's ready? I promise I'll leave the door open." I end with another smile, hoping my innocent young female charm is working on the parent.
"Of course, hun." came her reply as she busied herself with grabbing plates from the top cabinets, ushering Sam over to help her. "Oh and," I stopped in my tracks at the bottom of the steps to turn and face her. "Make sure you say goodbye before running off, alright?"
Even though I am not her child she treats me with such similar likeness that it is refreshing. It even makes my chest sting a little as my emotions secretly desire such a motherly figure in my life- well if I could go back in time that is, no sense in moaning about it now since I'm a grown woman. But either way, I didn't have a mother to raise me exactly nor a father. The 'father' left the picture upon signing his signature on the birth certificate in the hospital then literally walked out of our lives. All I know of him is his name; Christopher, but from what I understand I was a 'mistake' and he was only meant to be a 'fling'. Then my mother struggled with her own demons while raising me if you can call it that until I was five and that's when a family friend swooped in and took guardianship of me. From then on I had to grow up fast, fight my own battles, buy my own trinkets, and learn from my own mistakes. Not to make it sound terrible for I do love the man that raised me. My 'grandfather'- a title he told me to call him when we met seventeen years ago even though we are not blood-related, was my mother and father but like all good things, there are equally bad things. For example, even in his old age, he could still pack a punch when we didn't see exactly eye to eye, but even with his anger management issues he was still my knight and shining armor that took me out of the hell hole my mother birthed me in. Besides, I blame his anger mainly on the battles he fought in while in the military. On the things, he must have seen or the things he had to do to survive. But thanks to him I had a decent upbringing compared to what it might have been as an alcoholic, drug addictive, whore of a mother.
"Yeah, of course," I said softly with an honest smile, my eyes shutting briefly with the tilt of my head, before turning my back on her to trudge up the stairs. They honestly don't know what they have going for them. Compared to my upbringing this is paradise, I quietly think while heading for Michaels door, already knowing which one it is. They have it easy even with a divorce...
I went to give a knock when the door opened to reveal Michael. He stood there for a moment with a blank expression, my presences not entirely kicking in just yet. I took note of his get up; the worn out jeans, fully zipped up leather jacket, the bags under his eyes. I'm pretty certain he hasn't changed one bit since I've met him. It's like he only has one outfit in his entire wardrobe. Though I did note the earring is missing. Huh, I wonder when that was supposed to even happen? Most likely after the bridge scene. Oh well, it's not like it really fit his image well anyways, I had to agree with Sam's comment in the movie.
"Wha-what are you doing here?" He finally got out as he grabbed hold of my biceps to tug me into his room, closing the door afterward to which I wiggled out of his hands to open the door again. "Hey, they'll hear us," he complained in a rushed hushed tone as he tried to lean around me to swing the door close again. I slapped his hand away while my other hand went up to my lips in that 'shh' motion.
"Not if you talk quietly, sheesh," I add emphasis by rolling my eyes before continuing even though he might not be able to see it. "And I'm here to make sure you don't play ding dong ditch with vampires for Christ sake's." That earned me a huff from Michael as I mental imagine him crossing his arms since the room is pretty dark without the lights on but at least I could make out his outline by using the light from outside his window. "So come'on, before they show up and make a scene." I urge, turning around to head out. I felt another hold on my wrist this time to stop me and thankfully it wasn't too demanding. The moment I turned back around to face him his hand fell away.
"Look, I don't know about this. I mean, what did ya' even tell my mother to let you up here anyways? Or like, did you sneak into my house?" Good questions but the last one almost made me chuckle which I stifled with a shake of my head. I just came up the stairs all willy-nilly, like a laid back secret agent sure, as if I could sneak up here undetected.
"Of course I didn't sneak in, ya'dork. I'm not dumb enough to try that with everyone roaming around about every room. It's not like I'm some ninja or something."
"Yeah, so. I wouldn't put it past you, ya'know. You're kinda weird." his hushed undertone grumbling with a held back chuckle of his own. At least he's not super sulky at this time but If I remember right he's pretty mellow through this scene of the movie. Well, up until he meets with David in which he tries to get handsy all over again. Hopefully this time it'll be different.. or you know, when push comes to shove.
"You're not the first one to tell me that," I say jokingly though it is true. I think even Paul, of all characters, told me that but I can't be completely accurate and besides that, I've heard it most of my childhood. "So," I begin, crossing my arms as I shift the subject back on track. "what are you unsure about, Mike?"
"The whole... live or die thing, ya'know?" he tried to say it nonchalantly but I knew that internally it's gnawing at him but I gave a hum of understanding since nodding is probably useless. Though it did make me begin to secretly wonder just how much a person senses heighten even in the half-vamp stage- or perhaps it's all foggy and restraining; Not really appearing like a 'gift' until that final moment of your first kill. But of course he isn't 'certain' about such a big step in his life but sometimes someone has to 'bite the bullet' or however that quote goes.
"I don't think it's all that bad." I quietly mumble, my voice softening further, attempting to level with him. "I know you see it as some, curse perhaps, right now but it can easily be perceived as a gift. I mean," I open my arms in a wide arch as I tilt my head, "who doesn't want to live forever? See the world change and grow or learn a trade or two that you felt you never had the time to spend effort on?" I crossed my arms again. "With 'eternity' you'd have all the time in the world necessary."
"But Jackie.. I'd have to kill people for that-this 'gift'." That is the absolute truth. No wiggle room about it for I don't think he can use animal blood to sustain him like in the Anne Rice universe or become a nurse anytime soon to sneak out blood bags like in Being Human. He would have to feed upon what he used to be and even I can understand the difficulty of that sort of trade off, with my broken morals or not.
"True but.." I trailed off thinking about how to respond to that, my right foot slightly bouncing in place as the feeling to get a move on nagging at the back of my mind. "But, do you know what you can fall back on?" I asked with a lifted eyebrow while peering up at him since I'm probably about an inch shorter than even Sam. Especially when we only have about two to three feet separating us.
"What?" he finally verbally replied since I wasn't going to carry on until he did. It's not like I can see him motion for me to keep going or anything.
"You can always try it and if you don't like it.." I give a shrug. "Then all you have to do is watch the sunrise." Yeah, I know that's morbid. I know that it is basically no different than what I told him back in the cave that morning; Accept being a murderer or kill yourself. Man, aren't I just a peachy person?
"How, uh, emotional 'uplifting'." He groaned back, agreeing with my own thoughts. "You sure do have a way with words."
"Thank you, Captain Sarcasm. Now shall we go?" I stood to the side, arms motioning for him to walk out the bedroom door in that 'no you go first' method, and he took a few steps before facing me again. Now with me standing in the doorway of his room and him in the hallway.
"Wait, so if you didn't sneak up here then how did you- well, you know?" I sighed while brushing past his form to stand next to him, quietly shutting his door at the same time.
Then I walked past him to head for the stairs while replying to his question, "I told your brother and mother that we're going on a date."
"A date? Really?" I could hear him exaggerate behind me as we made it down the stairs, our shoes tapping against the hardwood steps. "Are we really gonna call 'it' that?"
"Yup." I popped the 'P' as I landed on the floor, taking those few steps until I stood in front of the archway of the kitchen, Michael snailing up behind me. "Miss Emerson," I called out in which Lucy turned to face me, a wooden ladle lifted to her mouth to taste whatever is on it. She quickly lowered it as a smile raised the corner of her lips when Michael came to stand beside me, her father staring at us from behind her. Sam stood off to the side, appearing to be the one to finish decorating and laying out the table. "We're heading out now. I hope you have a lovely date."
"Oh, you too, hun. Please don't stay out too late now, okay?" came her responds. I gave Michael a little nudge with my left elbow before hooking my arm around it. Gotta keeps up appearances and what not. Michael understood the silent gesture and cleared his throat.
"Yeah, mom. I'll try to be home before dawn this time." He spoke with little sign of humor. Acting not being his forte apparently. How ironic if you think about it, I thought.
"You better Mister." She pretends scolded him as she made her way back to the stove. How much of that is actually pretend is the real question though for we all know parents don't want their kids getting into trouble. At least 'real' parents do, not the ones that could give a damn about if you even ate in the past four days or not, and we all know that Lucy is an honest caring mother. "You two have fun," she called out to our retreating backs as we finally marched our way to the door. Even before Michael could lean over and open it I could see the shifting form of someone approaching it from the other side and silently withdrew my hand from Michael's arm, taking a conscious step back.
Then when Michael opened the door, probably not realizing the meaning behind my actions, I quickly turned my eyes to the ground. Not feeling up to making eye contact with Max or to really be a part of this scene entirely. For all I know he is unaware of me and my ties with Lost Boys because I doubt David would be stupid enough to spill his guts to the guy, Sire or not. Not after what I have explained to them a couple days ago anyways. I silently listened to their brief conversation and the sneaky way Max tossed in that key phrase. Without permission by a member that lives under this roof he would not be protected and without protection, his cover would've been blown by Sam and the Frog brothers. Holy water would have boiled him like acid, the cross would have burned his eyes, and the mirror would have shown no reflection. But thanks to that little magical rule of giving access to pass the threshold he becomes immune to what would be deadly to his kind. Unlike if he just waltz in like he owned the place.
I quickly stepped to the side when Max made his way in, the bouquet of flowers practically brushing against me in the small pathway. A tiny part of me is surprised that he didn't ask who I was or even take any interest in me. Since he knew Lucy had no daughter I'd think he'd at least question about my presence but nope, he rather gain passageway and moves on with the evening events, but I guess that is for the better. Well, good luck with that buddy. I hope you enjoy your garlic 'cheese' and black-out-freak-out while being tested by some of the most annoying gremlins in this universe.
Staying in step with Michael we made our way to his red Honda XL 250 and after he took a seat I follow in pursuit. Once situated he kicked up his stand, I wrapped my hands around his waist, and we were off. Heading out of the driveway and onto the dirt road leading to the Boardwalk but the real main destination being Hudson's Bluff.
I guess I should not be surprised that after the short ten-minute ride just past the Boardwalk we were quickly accompanied by David and the boys. All four bikes breezing by to only swing back around to reach our sitting form on the little side road. Michael had to stop driving as soon as they drove past so they could meet up with us. When he stopped the bike I quickly got off it and stood beside it, my hands barred in my jacket pocket and gaze to the dirt, waiting for the inevitable. David pulled up on the opposite side of me while Dwayne, Paul, and Marko took up residence right behind us. Then our eyes met, just briefly, and man could I feel the anger within just that glare alone but he quickly straighten up and put a smirk on his face, his gloved hands resting on his thighs comfortably. The motor of his baby purring beneath him as we sat, well I stood, idle.
"Michael."
"David."
"So our little Jackie came to fetch you, huh?" He was making an assumption but damn did he hit the nail on the head. I was about to make a comment about the 'our' tidbit when Michael spoke up again, leaving me to closing my mouth.
"I was under the impression that she was following an order or somethin'." Came out that half-smartass like comment as Michael shrugged his shoulders, not removing his eyes from Davids. I shifted my weight, deciding if I should try and make a comment again or perhaps ease the testosterone that is building in the air, while my eyes moved back and forth from whose talking at the time.
David gave a short snort like chuckle, "No need. A good soldier knows what to do without receiving an order." That made me turn my head to face him entirely. My cheeks heating up a little though I couldn't honestly tell you why. His comment is sort of demeaning while not at the same time. I secretly felt pleased that I did something that he'd title as 'good' yet at the same time I want to wiggle my nose at the 'loyal soldier' metaphor. I'm not some 'pet'. Even though I do treat him with as much respect I can manage. His lips twitched up into that familiar smirk of his when our eyes met, taking the opportunity to lean his gloved hand out to me, offering me a ride with no verbal command. I took his offering and slid on behind him, my hands falling to rest on his hips as I turn my eyes to the darkness that is surrounding us, my actions basically proving Davids words and I was not about to challenge them.
"You ready?" David asked openly, most likely to Michael, but I did feel a tap on my thigh which I quickly slipped my arms around his waist afterwards. My left cheek now flush against the wool of his trench coat.
"As ready as I'll ever be, I guess." came Michael's not so enthusiastic reply. Can't blame him. He knows something is up but he doesn't know quite just yet the type of show he will be receiving.
After that clarification, David kicked off with a laugh. His boys falling right in with the excitement as Michael trailed behind us and I stayed quiet through it all.
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..
Just like in the movie we came up with something similar to a sand dune or at least sand building up on a little cliff. The practically dead tree sat at the edge waiting for us, appearing to be half devoured by the sands efforts by now. On the opposite side of us and the tree danced shadows with help of the lights from the bonfire, shouting and laughter reaching us along with loud music coming from a boombox, as the smoke of the fire breezed past us a few feet away. How no one even heard their bikes I'll never understand completely. Sure there is a bunch of drunk guys and girls down there with a radio playing and fire raging but, seriously, motorcycles. If I was attending that party I feel I would have noticed the loud rumbling sound approaching us, but I guess that's just me.
But I'm not down there, thankfully, I'm up here with the predators which I think is better. I'm being pessimistic but I rather not be in their shoes being gnawed on by vampires, personally, so yeah 'better'...
Shortly upon turning off their bikes they all dismounted but me. I slid to the center of Davids bike and watched them trail up the little hill, even Michael, almost as if they didn't even notice that I was not tagging along- almost. Everyone but Michael give me a quick glance but no one spoke up and I couldn't help but feel a little relieved. Though I have been sorta preparing myself for this moment since yesterday I just could not find myself taking up residence with them in the tree branches.
All the boys climbed up and took their spots with ease as if they have trained for this moment and David only had to coax Michael once until he caved in and took perch on the lowest branch. Then it all started. Even from my view way back by the bikes, in the shadows of the party, I could see Paul and Marko's bodies wiggling with anticipation. Hell, even Dwayne was bouncing on a branch up above David, ready to kick off and pounce on the unexpected prey below. Leaving Michael to be about the only body that isn't fidgeting beside David.
I continued to sit there quietly as the Vampires revealed themselves to Michael. Not being able to really see their morphed faces from here to really feel the side effects anyways but I could still hear their laughter. As soon as they shifted and basically scared Michael they were off. Lifted to the air in a blink of an eye and gone over the ridge of the little cliff and just as quickly as that happened came the screams. Among the cries of horror and pleading, I could just faintly hear the cracking of bone and the tearing of flesh mixed in with the music still playing in the background. To put it simply, it was horrifying. The once actor and actresses semi half-ass screams now sounded like full-on howls of pain and mercy. Without even seeing the actual blood bath I could just imagine the horrific scene. My body felt rigid as I sat there with my eyes shut and body leaning forward. I wanted to shut everything out, put my hands over my ears, be a normal sane being and run away in fear but I can't. I can't be a normal person.
Swallowing I lift my eyes to see Michael still sitting upon his perch, shoulders heaving and body shaking. An internal battling waging within him as that last shred of humanity holds on for dear life. Clenching my hands to power me through my motives I slowly step off the motorcycle and make my way to him. I knew that his attention is glued to the massacre below, that he doesn't even realize I'm stepping up behind him. I know that a part of him wants to join while another part of him wants to roll down this dune to get as far away as possible from that terrible desire to participate. To feed the hunger that has been burning within him. Despite myself chanting over and over in my head to not look as I walk up to stand behind him I do. As if my body does not want to listen to reason and what I see floors me.
Blood and body parts everywhere. Blood pooling around the dismemberment limbs and bodies, trails of it running through the sand to the fire-pit, the air misting with the crimson color. The Lost Boys howled with excitement through it all, getting high from their actions as they dragged who is still alive and trying to escape into the air to drain them, rip off their arms to entice more screams from them before dropping the now motionless forms into the fire to burn. The scene before me frighten me but yet I could not look away. It's like that type of fear where you can't turn your eyes away from a horror movie as the bad guy makes his way to mane and kill the victim and you know what's going to happen yet you just can't stop watching.
David turned to face Michael while easily holding a Surf Nazi whose practically bigger than him in his arms and made sure to lock eyes with the half-vamp. I knew he could see me, I mean I only stood a foot or so way from the panting teenager but he made not effort to look me in the eyes. No, the real motive right now is to get Michael to feed. I knew that he knew that, they knew that, and Michael now knows that.
When push comes to shove.
I planted my shoe to his back and gave a push causing him to roll out of the tree and tumble to the base of the bonfire. Quickly Michael scurried to his feet but was met with David and a screaming surfer in a matter of seconds. As I stood there, trance fixed in the spot that Michael had previously occupied, I watched as David leaned the man's head back to slide his elongated nail across the jugular to spray blood across Michaels face and upper torso, drenching him. And that was all that it took for the halflings human side to vanish. As if starving Michael rushed forward and dived his fangs into the gurgling mess of a man, successfully feeding the 'monster' within him, and letting go of who he was. As soon as Michael attached himself to his first human meal David stepped away and our eyes finally met but they were no longer blood-orange nor was his features still pronounced in their more natural way. No, he stood there in his human-like facade with the only evidence of the demon he really is being the blood that coated him. Dripping off his chin and down his neck, soaking into the shirt beneath his coats.
We stood there staring at each other for what could only be a minute as the rest of the gang hooted and hollered in celebration of Michael finally becoming one of them completely. I could just faintly see them dancing around behind David, high-fiving each other, and patting Michael on the back as he drained the man dry. Within those sixty seconds, I watched Davids lips part into a full grin, shining the blood stained dull teeth at me, as his eyes glistened in what light reached them. I can't tell if he's pleased with me in the fact that I just assisted him or that I am standing here openly watching them be who they truly are but the look on his face still ignites something keen to fear nonetheless. Swallowing again I turn away, facing my back to them, and stare off into the darkness with wide eyes. My chest heaving with a heaviness I was unaware of until I cut our connection. Then the smell caught up with me, the smell of burning flesh wafting around me as the smoke billowed past making me want to gag. Overall I am unsure if I want to vomit right now let alone if my feet even want to work properly. I do know that that I feel sick and that my body is either trying to decide if it wants to freeze up and shut down or ignite an adrenaline rush to run the hell away. But instead of either I just stand there staring into the abyss past their bikes with the sound similar to joy playing out behind me.
Michael fed. I got him to feed. I pushed him.. I did it and the movie can't play out the same now. No, I've changed it all so, now what? What else do you have in store for me, I asked the night sky as my feet finally took action and stumbled ahead but I don't think I was ready for its answer as the dawning resolution of what I did finally settle in. I only managed three steps before I felt something slam into me, like a truck, and I lurched forward to fall to my hands and knees while letting out an involuntary scream of pain. The sandy dark mounds beneath me shifted as if I couldn't lock onto it while my mind began to pound loudly, hands digging into the texture. A bell ringing in my ears so powerfully that I caved in, my elbows to the sand, as I wrapped my hands around my head- trying desperately to shut out everything. Then another force slam into me, shock rolling up my spin to the point it made my body arch as another cry stung my throat, clenched eyes facing the black sky before I fell forward limp.
Lost to the conscious world around me once again.
A/N:
Yay, Michael is a vampire. A full-fledged shit-sucking vampire, lol. Anyways, Jackie finally did it. She successfully gave the 'push' that Michael needed to say "fuck it" but was it really the best thing to do? And now what's wrong with her? Well, you will find out what you all have been waiting for, the story behind the dream sequence and how she showed up in their universe, to begin with, in the next chapter! Also, I'd like to announce that I just passed the 50,000-word count marker! WOOT! This is also the most chapters I have ever written for a story so like, I may be foaming at the mouth a little here with excitement, but don't mind me.
Next update will be 13th or 14th of January.
