Thank you to those who followed and followed my story from the last update! We've crossed 120 following and 70 favorites! Oh my! I never imaged my story becoming this popular, I thought maybe I'd have 5 of each! I love you all! A special thank you to Momo, AxidentlGoddess, Emzy2k11, and Carmen Rae for reviewing the last two chapters. I appropriate your feed back! I hope you all like this chapter.
It's not my favorite chapter, I edited this chapter multiple times and still don't care for it. There's a little under the bra action this chapter, this story is rated M for these kinds of situations. It's towards the end, I put a line in between the action, if you do not care for these situations you can skip over the section.
As always please read, review and favorite/follow! Thank you! Enjoy!
"Sookie?" I called from my place by the screen door.
I found myself staring at the ground, at the mess at my feet. There was so much blood on the floor, the cabinets…more than I pictured could come from a person. Her nightgown was soaked crimson. Her head resting the ground, her hair settled in its own puddle. I couldn't see her face from here. Gran's face…the last time I saw her she was scolding me for being disrespectful to Bill. She scolded me for being outside when I should have been resting and regaining my strength. She…Gran…Gran's dead. Bile began to rise from my stomach, but there were some loud noises in the dining room. As it sounded like Bill was fighting and pinning someone against the wall. I snapped to attention.
"Bill! Let him go!" Sookie yelled as she made her way wobbly over to the dining room.
I wanted to follow but, the body sprawled on the floor was in the way. The blood was already on my feet. God, I had forgotten to put on shoes before Eric had me step outside. I was going to track the blood over the house. But there was a fight in the foyer and someone with a level head needed to be there. Someone needed to help keep the peace between whoever was fighting. I needed to help. I bit my lip and pushed myself forward off the doorframe. I carefully made my way around the body and towards the dining room. To see Bill holding Sam by his throat. Bill released Sam and snapped his fangs away. Sam looked Sookie up and down.
"What happened?" Sam's voice cracked as he desperately asked. Probably trying to make sure that Sookie was okay and that it wasn't her blood.
Silence passed as Sam continued to eye Sookie up and down.
When no one said anything. I found sucking in a deep breath and stepping forward, "Gran is dead," I looked towards Sam, "Call the police. We need them here."
"O-okay," Sam replied.
Once I saw Sam pull out his phone, I quickly grabbed Sookie and steered her towards the living room leaving the boys in the foyer. I sat her on the couch. She looked like she was going to fall over if a light breeze came through. I took a seat next to her and began to examine her. I wasn't a doctor, well I had a doctorate but that didn't make me a doctor doctor. God, I could use the Doctor right now, he could handle this situation in stride. But then that would make vampires, aliens. Ha, I think I'd almost like that better. Send them away on a spaceship back to wherever they came from. But that was a show…this…this was reality. Reality calls and I needed to be here for Sook, not contemplating some Sci-fi TV show.
"Sookie look at me," I said holding her shoulders, "Are you okay?"
"I'm-I'm fine," Sookie looked a bit shaken.
I looked her in the eye, this room didn't have the best light but I could tell her pupils were slightly dilated. I took her hands into my own they felt clammy and cold. I was surprised when there was no reaction this time we touched. There was no spark, no warmth. Nothing. I focused on not reading her as I held her hand.
"No you are not," I said quickly grabbing the blanket that was draped over the couch and wrapping her in it, "I'm not leaving your side. Sam is calling the police. We're going to find who did this."
I continued to hold Sookie's hands until the police finally showed. The police entered the residence with the corner and his assistant. Sam stopped them in the foyer and began to direct them to the kitchen. As soon as they went into the kitchen, I took Sookie outside. I already knew she wouldn't be able to focus on anything. Drowning out voices would be too difficult in her current state of mind. People can't control their thoughts much better than they can control their emotions. She didn't need to hear all the vile things they would say without a filter. Besides Sam, Bill and myself; I doubt anyone else knew about Sookie's ability and wouldn't be focused on controlling what they are thinking. She might be able to hear them from this distance but at least it would take an effort to hear them. I sat there in silence as I rubbed her shoulders. I did my best to put any thoughts from my mind so Sookie could just sit there without distractions. Plus, the little contact between us let me hear in on her, just occasionally to check in on her. So I wouldn't have to constantly ask, "Are you okay?". If I heard that over and over again I'd snap, this was easier and even though it was intrusive, it as for the best at this moment…I think. She wasn't thinking much, but reminiscing about some of her fonder memories of her Gran.
After a while Sam came outside and sat next to us on the steps. He brushed off my arms and rubbed her shoulder, "I shouldn't have left you alone. I shouldn't have lost my temper."
"Can you apologize to me some other time?" Sookie snapped, but somehow she still sounded pleasant while she said it.
I was amazed, if I was in her shoes…I don't know how I would react. My dad's mother died when I was so young…my older brother, Liam, was the only one of us that could remember her. Well he was the only one old enough to remember her. The rest of our grandparents are still alive. Beyond Dawn and Gran…I have never known anyone who has died.
"I just…if I can do…you know I'm right here for you," Sam replied taking a hand of hers.
"I know…Thank you," Sookie stated flatly, after a moment she shot her hand out of his. She must have heard something she didn't like, "Where's Bill?"
Ooooo, that wasn't good. Sam looked at her like a hurt lost puppy and got up, "I'll go get him."
"Can you give Jason a call while you are at it?" I asked over my shoulder as Sam went inside, giving me a bit of side eye as he entered the house.
Once Sam was gone, I slid back close to her. I took her hand and started off into the distance with her.
"Thanks for…not thinking," Sookie said without looking at me.
"I'm trying," I replied.
"I know…I know it's hard," Sookie replied.
"Not that difficult. Just stare at something without thinking. It's almost calming," I joked and looked at Sookie.
Sookie only nodded as we continued our silent vigil. Until Bill came onto to the porch. He looked down at me, without saying a word I knew what he wanted.
"I'll leave you two alone for a little bit. You'll like his silence a bit better," I gave her a small smile, "I'll be inside if you need me."
Sookie nodded as I stood and dipped my head towards Bill, who took my seat next to her. I walked inside only to be cornered by the Sheriff and Andy.
"Miss Martinowski," Bud called.
I internally groaned and turned towards the Sheriff, "Yes?"
"We just got through questioning Mr. Compton. He said he was walking you home when you found Sookie and the body," Andy's tone sounded like he was suggesting something.
"Correct. Bill walked me home after you two left his house," I replied, doing my best to not narrow my eyes and glare at the man. What was he getting at?
"You didn't hear or see anything when you two came across the cemetery?"
"No, but then I was speaking with Bill at the time. I do not have heighten hearing or any special vampire qualities."
"Between Dawn, Maudette, Bethany, and Adele Stackhouse. They were all involved with vampires at some point," Bud Dearborne said looking at me.
"What of it?" I asked eyeing them, they were going to say it weren't they?
"Well you and Sookie are the last two to associate with vampires more than once, in a less then public setting. Last I heard, the two of you went to that vampire bar in Shreveport. All but Adele Stackhouse went there," Andy stated.
"Yes, we went there to see if we could find something about Beth there. Since nothing has seemed to come out of your investigation," I interjected.
I looked him in the eye and I could see he didn't like my comment. I could see the anger in his eyes as he postured in front of me. Andy squared his shoulders to give himself that not so intimidating as he thought he was look. I could tell he was biting his tongue when he replied in a strained voice, "If you keep going down this path. When will you two be next?"
I watched as they headed towards the kitchen. I heard something that sounded like a bag unzipping from the living room. They were going to be moving Gran any moment. I decided to head back outside to warn Sookie. Bill turned in his seat as I used my head to motion toward the side of the porch. Bill seemed to understand as he nodded and helped Sookie stand up.
"They are moving Gran, Sookie," I said as Bill moved her away from the path the gentlemen would be taking.
Andy and the sheriff came outside and cornered the three of us on the porch, "Maybe you girls should sleep somewhere else tonight? At a friend's house perhaps. Someplace that is less isolated?"
I did like the sheriff's suggestion. I didn't feel all together safe at staying at the house. Gran had just passed away. She was just murdered. It's not like she died of natural causes. What if whoever did this came back? That's how most killers get caught, right? Returning to the scene of the crime. But then again this killer hadn't been caught. So, he must be at least slightly intelligent. I guess he wouldn't be returning tonight. Though, why risk it?
"I'm not going anywhere," Sookie declared then looked at me.
Internally I sighed. Of course, she'd want to stay in her own home. Sookie was the eternal optimist and brave. She always looks on the bright side even if something awful just happened. That's why she had so many friends and got along with people so much better than I. Even if I wasn't comfortable with staying. I wasn't going to leave her alone. I'd have to be brave just like her. Even though I was scared I'd stay with her, "I'll stay with her. As long as were together we'll be okay."
Andy and Bud must have been satisfied with that answer, "I'm truly sorry about your grandmother. If you see anything call us at first sight."
"Will do," I responded for Sookie, as the two nodded and headed down the steps towards their cars. Then followed the corner and his assistant.
"We'll keep an eye on them," Sam stressed as the government officials left, "You two really shouldn't stay here. You can take my trailer and I'll sleep in the bar."
"Like Adriane said, as long as we are together we will be safe. Besides we have both of you to look over us. We will be okay."
"Sookie, I have to go," Bill stated turning her towards him.
"Of course, it's almost dawn," Sookie faltered with a nod.
"I'll be back tomorrow evening," Bill assured her.
"Yes, I can take it from here," Sam postured and pushed Bill aside a bit to stand next to Sookie.
I groaned and rolled my eyes, "If you two are done with your pissing contest," I took Sookie's hands and led her away from the noxious attitudes as Bill took off, "Sookie, why don't you go upstairs and rest. I can clean."
"No I'll help, Sam there's a mop around back," Sookie stated.
"Sookie, you don't have to-" Sam began but Sookie interjected.
"Gran took a lot of pride in her home. She wouldn't want to see it like this," Sookie replied.
Sookie and I stepped inside the house, while we left Sam on the porch to collect the mop. I gathered the bucket with water, while Sookie found the chemicals. Sitting on opposite sides of each other we began soaking up the mess until it was gone and there was no blood left anywhere in the room. Even between the three of us, the task took an hour until the blood was gone. I ushered Sookie upstairs to shower and change out of last night's outfit. I hoped Sookie had herself a good cry in the shower. Sam said people would be showing up as "soon as it was a decent hour", whatever that meant. I wasn't used to that sort of custom. In my family, most people didn't show up until the wake. If there was going to be a wake. That was all up to Sookie and Jason, the last living relatives Gran had as far as I was aware.
Once I heard the shower running, I sighed and pushed my hair out of my face and ran my hands through my hair massaging my scalp. Once in the kitchen, I got started to make a pot of coffee. When it finished, I poured myself a cup and decided to drink it black. I think I would need the extra caffeine today. Normally I wouldn't have coffee this way but I was exhausted.
"Can I get a cup?" Sam inquired from the doorway.
"Yeah, of course," I answered and got down another cup from the cabinet, "How do you want it?"
"Black," Sam replied, once it was poured I handed the mug to him.
"It's gonna be a long day, isn't it?" I asked taking a sip from my own cup. Making a face as the bitterness crossed my tongue. I usually added so much sugar and cream into my coffee, you couldn't taste the coffee anymore. God, I missed Starbucks.
"Yes, it is. Everyone in the town is gonna show up. Don't like it black?" Sam chuckled at my face.
"Not normally, but I'm running on almost no sleep for the last 48 hours," I said, "I need the extra caffeine today."
Sam paused before he dove right in with, "Where were you this evening?"
I almost choked on the sip I was taking, "What do you mean?"
"Adriane, you should have been in the house," Sam voice sounded tight and strained as he spoke, "You should have been here when…but you weren't, you were out."
"What are you trying to say Sam?" I set down the drink, I was already stressed. He was just going to make worst if he was going where I think he was.
"Did you do anything with that vampire, Bill?" There was such distain in his voice as he spoke the name.
Oh, he was going to go there. Of course, he would think that. Why did he have to go there? Just because he couldn't keep it off his mind, didn't mean others had the same mind track as him.
"I didn't do anything with Bill," I crossed my arms over my chest and leaned back against the counter top. I stared him straight in the eye so he would know I was telling the truth.
"Then what happened?"
"It's none of your business," Sam looked like he was about to interrupt me so I quickly added, "And! It's not worth talking about while Sookie is going through a hold different situation upstairs. I do not want her walking in on this kind of conversation, in her frame of mind. She needs positivity right now, even if its fake from your end. Stop whipping it out and laying it on the table in front of her while arguing with Bill. I know you hold a torch for the girl, but you shouldn't be measuring it up in front of her with the 'competition'. That kind of action is not going to win her over," I hissed at him quickly steering the conversation away from myself.
"Wow," Sam said leaning against the doorframe separating the dining room and the kitchen, "What happened? You used to be scared to even get confrontational in front of me."
"Perks of you not being my boss anymore. I can say whatever I want to you without the fear of getting fired."
"I miss being your boss then," Sam smiled.
"Don't skip over this conversation, Sammy boy. Take a step back and think about what Sookie needs right now. And what she needs right now is someone who will support her through this hard time. Don't argue with Bill in front of her. If she wants Bill's comfort, then she will go to him either way. Don't make it easier for her to do that," I offered just as I heard the water turn off upstairs, "Sookie's getting out of the shower. Think about what I said."
I headed upstairs to see if Sookie needed some help to get dressed. I knocked on her door and she opened it holding the towel around her body. She let me into her room, ambled over to her bed and sat down.
"I don't know what to wear," Sookie just stared at her closet from her bed.
I entered her room, closing the door behind me, "Well let's find something light. It's gonna be hot today. Maybe a skirt?"
I picked thorugh her closet till I found a light white button up blouse with a sea green floral patterned skirt. It was perfect for expecting polite company who would want to see her looking okay.
"How about this?" I asked pulling out the outfit.
Sookie just stared at it and bobbed her head. She still wasn't showing much emotion. I was hoping that being alone in the shower would allow her to cry a bit before people got to see her, but appeared that did not happen. But I guess that was okay, everyone feels things on their own time. I bet the thought of Gran being gone is still sinking in for her. It wasn't like she just lost her grandmother, she lost the woman who helped raise her. Someone who had been there when her own parents had died. Gran was one of the best people I had come to know here in the south. She was kind and generous. She opened her house to Beth and I right away before even getting to know us. She always had something for us to eat, caring for us while we didn't have a place to stay. She was a great woman. Even though I didn't know her as well as Sookie, she always felt like my own grandmother.
There was another knock at the door as Tara entered the room. She saw Sookie and rushed over to wrap her arms around her.
"Oh Sookie!" Tara croaked while she held back tears.
"I'm gonna go change no one needs to see me in a hoodie and shorts," I said while I laid out the outfit on the bed, sensing Tara needed the room.
"Thank you, Adriane," Sookie replied and Tara nodded at me.
I left the room and headed over to Jason's, well I guess "mine" for now, to pick out my own outfit. As I got near to the door I saw Lafayette come up the stairs out of the corner of my eye.
"She's still getting dress," I called as he approached her door, "Maybe help Sam get the dining room table cleared for guests. I image they are bringing food with them."
"Ah so that's how it is," Lafayette chided with a sad smile, "No love for Lala."
"Oh hey Lafayette, sorry I didn't come and see you," I chuckled lightly and smiled as I approached him for a hug.
"Its okay hook'r, I knew ya were coming to look for little Bethany," Lafayette was still his own fabulous self, his way of playful teasing always lifted my mood. His hugs always felt reassuring, being wrapped into his strong arms. He always gave off such a positive warm vibe that calmed those around him.
Mmmhmmm, not even stopping by to say 'hi' to us. I guess she did completely forgot about us while she was away.
I quickly releasing him from my arms a pulled away. That stung a little, but it was true. During my time, back home I never really did call or make an effort to keep in touch. I'll probably get similar responses from other people. It was my fault. I'd have to make up for that…some how.
"We'll catch up as soon as I'm presentable," I promised, He nodded and dramatically turned and headed back downstairs. Causing me to giggle. I walked into my room and picked out an outfit. I began to take off the hoodie, but felt the sudden urge to shower. Wash away my own negativity before diving into the plethora of people that would be showing up soon.
I headed into the bathroom and shut the door. After stripping off the clothing I started the water for a quick navy shower. Something quick just to freshen up and look better. I headed back into Sookie's room after I was dressed in a black pencil skirt and floral blouse I didn't even know I had packed. Tara had gotten her clothed. She was currently drying Sookie's hair as I entered.
Tara eyed me from her spot, "You look tired."
Right to the point. I knew how I looked but her bluntness at this moment was just because she didn't have anything to say, I think. I smiled, "I'll have to get another cup of coffee."
Tara turned to focused back on Sookie. Tara picked out a headband for Sookie to wear, so her hair wasn't in her face. I sat on the bed and held out my hand for the dryer. Tara complied as I worked on my own hair. There was a knock on the door.
"Come in," Tara called for us.
Sam poked his head in, "People are starting to show up." He eyed Sookie, then he closed the door again.
Once Tara had finished the final touches on Sookie's look for the day. They began to head for the door. Only Sookie stopped and looked towards me.
"I'll be down in a minute," I said as I finished off my hair and reached for my makeup bag.
Sookie nodded and left the room with Tara right behind her. I was left alone again. I exhaled and stood to go to the large vanity that Sookie had. I sat down and began to apply my war paint. This would have to last all day until Eric came to retrieve me. I also made sure to do my best to cover all the visible bruises on my wrists and ankle as best as I could. I fluffed my hair with dry shampoo, once satisfied that I was presentable I made my way downstairs.
By this point Sam manned the front door, he was there to welcome the constant flow of new people. A majority of the people I had never met before, people who must have known Gran or Sookie. Those who were not regulars at Merlotte's while I was here the first time. Lafayette and Tara were manned the dining room table, constantly needed to make room for new items that were showed up with every new person. I found Sookie by herself at the kitchen table, with a blank stare directed at the floor where Gran had been found. That can't be good.
"How long has she been sitting like that?" I enquired Lafayette.
"Ever since they came down," Lafayette followed my gaze towards Sookie, as he set down a casserole dish, "These people are poisonous for her. They don't give a shit about her. They keep buzzing like a bunch of nosey vultures in the kitchen thinking they can see something. They are gonna pick that poor girl apart."
At that moment, a rather large woman was buzzing her way towards Sookie, Mrs. Fortenberry if I remember correctly. Deciding to save Sookie from the woman who was, if I correctly, the town gossip. I walked over, set on introducing myself to her.
"Mrs. Fortenberry? Hi, I'm Adriane Martinowski, I'm a friend of Sookie's. I don't think we met the last time I was in town," I said holding out my hand.
"Oh, how do you do?" She sputtered taking my hand and shaking it. With that Sookie made her move to escape the room only to be trapped by Arlene in a hug. At least Arlene was a friend and not a vulture.
"I'm doing well all things considered," I answered with a smile, "And yourself?"
"Hmm," She nodded and walked away.
Vulture indeed, didn't even want to talk to me. Fine. I turned and began making my way back to the dining room to talk with Lafayette when, "MAXINE FORTENBERRY! YOU PUT THAT PIE DOWN!"
I turned shocked that sounded like Sookie. I needed to confirm that it was indeed Sookie how had yelled. I only time I could recall her even bringing her voice anything close to a yell, was at Merlotte's. Where in the evening you needed to raise your voice to talk above the music.
"RIGHT NOW!" She shouted and marched over towards Mrs. Fortenberry and stole the pie from out of her hands, "THIS IS GRAN'S PIE!"
As everyone stood there gawking at Sookie. Even if I couldn't hear them at that moment, I could feel all the thoughts being directed her way. They were like a black storm cloud that would be fogging her brain in a second. I rushed towards Sookie alongside Tara.
"I'm sorry I was just trying to make some room," Maxine replied as Tara reached Sookie first and took her upstairs.
"Ya'll excuse us, I need Sookie upstairs," Tara stated as she took Sookie away from the town and towards the steps.
Sam went to move forward, I held him back a bit, "Give them some time."
Sam nodded, Give them space. Sookie will come to me when she wants me.
"Good Sam, keep thinking like that," I stated, Sam didn't even look at me but absently nodded.
"Adriane, Lafayette!" Tara called behind her as she reached the steps. I was surprised I was summoned along with Lafayette. I turned to look at Sam apologetically as I headed upstairs behind Lafayette. When I finally got to Sookie's room, Tara and Lafayette had her in bed. She was still held onto the pie, her unfocused gaze almost looked regretfully. Lafayette had thrown himself onto the bed sprawled out across it on his side. Tara sat across from Sookie and eyed her carefully.
"I shouldn't have done that," Sookie replied and set the pie next to her, "I shouldn't have lost it like that."
"Don't feel bad about yelling at that woman. She was sticking her nose into someplace it didn't belong. She had no right be going through your fridge like she owned the place," I said leaning against the closed door.
"I mean, if she talked any more shit, she'd be shaped like a toilet," Lafayette replied while looking at Sookie. Tara and Lafayette shared a laugh while I watched Sookie eye the pie again.
"Sorry," Lafayette corrected himself after a moment.
"Gran's gone," Sookie stated then gazed at the two on the bed then to me, "She's really gone."
"Yeah, she is," Tara confirmed and eyed the pie also.
"I don't know what I'm supposed to do," Sookie's face was still neutral while her voice was monotone as she spoke, "Can't even think straight."
"It's no wonder why, with all these files just circling the downstairs," I stepped forward to sit alongside Tara. Who scooted over a bit for me to sit fully on the bed.
"You are not their entertainment. You don't have to dance for them," Tara followed.
"You just need some time away from them. To handle this situation in whatever way you need," I finished.
"I'm not sure I'm handling anything," Sookie's eyes fell to the pie again and then back to us, "I'm just numb."
"Numb is good, numb is probably exactly what you need right now," Tara approved.
Lafayette hummed in agreement while I nodded when Sookie looked to me.
"Stop worry about being so damn appropriate. This is not an appropriate event," Tara stated.
After a beat, Sookie looked to her, "Thank you for getting me out of there. I haven't had a single minute of silence…Can't seem to…block anything out right now."
"You want me to tell 'em to shut the hell up?' Tara asked.
"I wish it were that easy," Sookie replied looking towards me.
"I know it's not easy Sookie, it can be hard to block them out. But we can kick them all out and leave for a while if that's what you need. We can sit right on the porch for you," I couldn't think of anything to say to her. One thing was for sure we weren't leaving any time soon.
"Oh but it is," Lafayette reached for his pocket, "Your wish if my command."
"Oh, no. I don't do drugs," Sookie shook her head, when he pulled out the zip-lock baggie of medications.
"Sook, relax," Lafayette picked through the bag he had procured from his pocket, "This is not drugs, this is Valium."
When she didn't move to grab any, "Well, I'll tell you what. Put it in your night stand, just in case ya change y'er mind."
Sookie took the pill and played with it in her hand.
I just gave Lafayette a look and he shrugged. Giving her, I'm willing to bet, illegally obtained drugs in front of me. Leaving me in a tight situation. Bastard. I knew he was a drug dealer, I think everyone in town did. I just had never seen him with the drugs before. Before I could have pleaded ignorance but here he was handing over controlled medication to someone who didn't have a prescription for it. Even if she might need something to help her sleep and ignore all the voices in her head. We could have just given her Tylenol PM o something that was over the counter and not illegal to knock her out.
"I'm gonna go and check on the flies," Lafayette bounced off the bed.
"Lafayette?" Sookie looked towards him and held out the pie, "Would you mind taking this downstairs for me?"
"I will guard it with my life," He smiled as he took the pie from her, with that Lafayette left the room.
I sighed and raked my hand through my hair as Tara claimed the part of the bed the Lafayette just had. Sookie laid across the bed too.
"Do you want us to call anyone?" I asked.
"Your cousin Hadley?" Tara finished for me.
"No one's heard from her in over a year. Not since she ran away from that rehab Gran paid for. I don't even know how to get ahold of her," Sookie stated.
Tara sprawled out on the bed further and rested her head on her arms, "What about Bill? Gonna invite him?"
"Tara he can't go," Sookie pushed.
"No, you're right," Tara replied.
"It's alright Tara, I haven't gotten used to being around vampires either," I said as I leaned against the pillows at the head of the bed.
"She's right, it takes getting used to," Sookie replied.
"I'm not sure I'll ever get used to it," Tara huffed and looked at Sookie, "What? 'Cause not everyone is as open-minded as you are. Right Adriane?"
"It's true Sookie, you might be one of the few here that finds vampires 'okay'. They are terrifying," I replied as I held myself, lightly rubbing one of my wrists. I looked down and internally groaned, some of the foundation came off, I'd have to reapply it soon.
"You should hear the things people are saying," Tara nodded along.
"I do," Sookie spat, "Bill did not kill my grandmother."
"Don't you get all mad at me. Nobody's blaming Bill…exactly. But didn't you tell me he had scary-ass friends?"
"Not all vampires are like that," Sookie responded.
"A majority are," I eyed Sookie as she spoke. I wish I could add that I would never have anything more to do with them, but that would be a lie.
"Bill's not," Sookie looked over her shoulder to me.
"You right, Bill is not. He's an exception to the rule. Most are horrible," I rubbed my arms.
Sookie sat up a bit to look at me fully, "I'm sorry that Eric did that to you."
I broke the eye contact and looked at the exposed bruise, which was still a dark blue and purple. I expect it would stay like that for a while. Why did she have to bring Eric back up again? It just reminded me that dusk was closer. I know it was still early in the day, but every moment I closer to being alone with him again.
Tara must have looked at my bruise because her comment brought me out of my thoughts, "I'd fuckin' lose it if anything happened to you, Sookie. You know that, right?"
"Me too Sook, I can't lose another one of my friends," I joined in, attempting to take focus off me.
It worked because Sookie began to talk about last night, "Tara, last night was so horrible. I don't know how I would've gotten through it without if it weren't for Bill," She paused, "When I'm around him. I don't know how to explain it exactly, but it's like I almost feel normal."
Neither me or Tara had anything to say, I was a bit hurt that she didn't add me into the equation. But I could not offer her the silence she needed that she got when Bill was around. This also wasn't about me, Sookie was the one who just lost her grandmother not I. She wasn't trying to hurt my feelings. There was no way for her to know that she hurt me unless she listened in. Let's keep it like that.
There was a sudden bang that had all three of us sat up fully on the bed. It sounded like a door was slammed open downstairs. A hustled pound of steps as someone ran up the stairs. When Sookie's door was slammed open, Jason had emerged and entered the room. I could see the furry in his eye as Sookie got up off the bed. Both approached each other, Sookie's steps were gentle while Jason's were aggressive.
Sookie must have not registered his aggression because she began to hold out her arms towards him and greeted him softly, "Jason."
Jason was faster, once she was close enough. He raised his hand, before I could jump off the bed and stop him. Jason had slapped Sookie across the face. Both Tara and I were up and scrambled to shove Jason away from Sookie.
"What the fuck is wrong with you?!" Tara screeched accusingly.
I shoved Jason back farther when he began to move forward again. He didn't even look at me, he kept trying to push forward towards Sookie. I used all my strength to push him towards the door.
"It's your fault!" Jason accused, "Gran is dead 'cause of you!"
When Jason lunged forward again, I heaved Jason with the as much force as I could muster and I threw him at the door, "Don't you touch her!" I quickly regained the ground I lost when I threw him. I shoved him out the door.
"She's fucking a vampire, Adriane! A fucking vampire!" Jason yelled.
"Well that 'fucking' vampire was there for her when you weren't!" I retorted and grabbed his arm.
"You ought to be ashamed of yourself! Is that how your grandmother raised you? To beat on your own sister?" Tara yelled back at Jason, "Look at you! I don't even recognize you anymore!"
"Get the fuck out," I growled and began to drag him towards the steps. Tara slammed the door behind us. I dragged him down the stairs and outside. When on the porch I shoved him away from me. Jason almost looked sorry as he headed down the stairs and back towards his truck. I crossed my arms and defended the porch as he looked back at me one time. I could see the bitterness in his eyes but he continued towards his truck. As he approached Andy came around from the front of his car.
"Stackhouse, I need to ask you a few questions," He said as he held out a hand to stop Jason from getting closer to his car. Oh, that wasn't going to be good. Andy didn't like Jason for whatever macho reason and always targeted him. Even when I was first here. I bet Andy had Jason begged as one of his murder suspects, I bet Jason was higher on his list than anyone else.
"Not now, Andy," Jason breathed and turned to walk around the back of his car to get to the driver's side. He was stopped by Andy.
"Where were you last night?" Andy asked.
"I don't know," Jason replied, "I was with a girl."
"Tara Thornton?"
"What? No," Jason shook his head.
"Yeah, I didn't think so," Andy straightened up looking proud for some sick reason, "What's this one's name?"
"I don't remember her name, okay?" Jason didn't look at him as he shook his head, "I got a number."
A crowd gathered on the porch behind me. Only Lafayette came close to me, he stood next to me as we watched the show.
"Why ain't that convenient?" Andy smirked
"What's that supposed to mean, Andy?"
"It's Detective Bellefleur, and what the fuck do you think it means?"
I couldn't see Jason's face but I saw the rage and tension in his shoulders, "Are you saying I killed my grandmother?'
Jason jerked forward and shoved Andy hard against the truck. A sick feeling rose in my gut as I heard Andy bend the metal of the exterior of the truck. Holy shit. How did he do that? Jason worked out but he wasn't that strong. Not strong enough to lift Andy off his feet with a shove and bend the exterior of his car. Jason was on something to make him that strong. PCP? No, the symptoms didn't match up. He wasn't slurring his speech. He didn't seem to think he was stronger, he even looked surprised that he did that to Andy. What was he taking? Steroids? I didn't see any puncture marks on his arms. Jason wouldn't take steroids anyways. What could he be taking?
The car alarm began to go off as Andy bounced off the truck and onto the ground. Jason must have felt the eyes of those watching, he turned a bit to look back at me. I couldn't read the emotions in his eyes, but he quickly moved around Andy and got into his truck on the opposite side.
"You's a stupid bitch, Jason Stackhouse," Lafayette mumbled and turned to go back into the house. I looked to Lafayette as he walked up the stairs.
Lafayette gave him something. Something that would make him stronger. What could Lafayette have that would give him that strength? I'd have to have a talk with him later. Jason needed someone with him. Especially if he was high on some substance. He shouldn't even be driving. I quickly rushed towards the car, stepping over Andy and got into the truck the passenger side.
"What'cha doin'?" Jason growled as he turned the engine over.
"Coming with you," I asserted as I buckled up, "Sookie's got Tara and Lafayette. You shouldn't be alone."
Jason didn't say anything but threw the car into gear and backed out of the lawn and peeled out of the property. We sat in silence as he drove, I didn't know where we were going until I saw the familiar ram shackles of his house, the family house he grew up in until his parents died and went to live with Gran. He pulled the truck up close, parked and took the keys out of the ignition. He slammed the door as he got out of the truck. I quickly unbuckled and exited the car not slamming the door as he did seconds ago, Jason loved his truck and I was not going to be the end of that argument if I abused it.
Jason paced back and forth a few times while he gripped the keys in his fist. In a aggressive frustrated movement he threw the keys to the ground with such force they looked like they could be stuck. Then, brought his hands to his head gripping his hair so hard I though he was going to pull it out and yelled, "FUCK!"
"Jason," I quickly rushed towards him and pulled his hands from his hair. I held his larger hands in my own and brought them to my chest. His eyes were shut tight.
Gran's dead, Gran's dead, Gran's dead, Gran's dead, Gran's dead. The mantra continued in his head.
I needed to do something. Something to break him from his mantra, something to snap him out of it. I need some inner strength. The same strength I used last night to gain Sam's, Bill's and Sookie's attention. I needed my voice. I found it in the pit of my stomach when I demanded, "Look at me."
The simple command worked. Jason complied and looked down at me. His eyes bore into my own, his eyes rimmed with red as he was forced himself not to cry. There was no need to read his thoughts to know how he was feeling and thinking. Suddenly I was forced up against the truck as Jason's lips were crashing onto mine. Shocked by this sudden aggressive kissing, my mouth had fell open in a gasp. Which he took as an invitation to force his tongue into my mouth. I struggled against him as he held my hands against the truck.
Gran's dead, Gran's dead, Gran's dead. The mantra continued as he kissed me roughly.
When Jason came up for air, he sobbed and fell to his knees. His head rested against my stomach as he cried. Jason's arms wrapped around my waist as he sobbed soaking my blouse. I sighed as I brought my hands down to his hair. I lightly ran my hands through his hair as I hugged him close to me. Even though the kisses were unwarranted, I knew he didn't mean anything by it. He was looking for a way to deal and thought that would be the right way. That method had probably worked before, but today…in this situation it would not work. Once his sobs became quieter and his grip on me eased a bit, I offered, "Let's go inside."
All Jason did was nod against my stomach, he pulled his keys out of the dirt. Then stood, I wrapped myself around his waist, he leaned against me as we walked towards the door. He was sweating and shaking as we walked. Maybe he was in withdrawal? Once inside I lead him to the couch in the dirty house. I had Jason sit on the couch, I took a seat in between his legs on the floor so he would be forced to look at me if he looked down. I rested a hand against his thigh and held his hand in my other.
"Fuck," He murmured, and ran his free hand through his hair.
"It's okay, Jason," I stated and gripped his hand tighter.
"No its not," Jason replied.
"Your right it's not, but what you are feeling is okay."
"I hit Sookie."
"Yes you did, you will have to apologize for that later, but she'll be okay. She's got Tara and Lafayette with her."
"And what do I have?" There was bitterness in his voice as he spoke, it hurt a bit that he had not considered me.
"You have me."
"And where have you been the last few years?"
"Away," I replied as I looked down.
"I've missed you," Jason stated and I brought my eyes up to find him looking at me in the eye. His eyes still rimmed red. At least I was far enough away he couldn't kiss me from here. He'd have to drag me on to the couch to do so.
"I've missed you too," I replied removing my hand from his thigh and resting it on his cheek.
"Not the way I've missed you."
"And how have you been missing me, Jason? I hear you've been doing just fine without me around," I teased lightly and dropped my hand from his face.
"Not true, those girls are…they were…they're dead. Gran's dead," Jason looked up and stared past me.
I sighed and got up to sit next to him on the couch, where he rested his head against my shoulder. In turn I began stroking his hair, "Yeah she is."
We sat in silence for quite some time as I stroked his hair. Jason's eyes were closed as he leaned against my shoulder, almost like he was sleeping. After sometime he broke the silence, "Were you there when Sookie found her?"
"No but we arrived just after she walked into the house," I replied.
"'We'?"
"Yeah, Bill and I."
With that Jason sat up and gave me dirty look, "You were with that vampire? What were you doing with him?"
"Not that it's any of your business but we were just talking."
"'Just talking'? Nobody 'just talks' with a vampire."
"Well I do."
"Adriane you know how fucking dangerous those creatures are! They'll drain you dry of all the blood you got! Hell, they killed Maudette, Dawn and Gran! I bet they have Beth somewhere, feeding off her till she dead too!"
I brisled at his statement. Beth wasn't dead, how dare he make a comment like that. He may be hurting but that didn't give him the right to say that, "No, vampires didn't kill them; a human did that. Some sick human that is going around killing people who have associated with vampires. And we will find Beth alive."
"Then the vampires might as well have done it," Jason retorted with spite in his voice, "Those fuckers shouldn't even exist. It ain't natural. I mean their fucking blood is a drug."
Oh! Why hadn't I thought of that. Jason was using V. Of course it makes sense. I had read an article that went over the symptoms of a V user. I read it just after the vampires came out, no wonder I hadn't remembered the drug. He was sweating because he was coming down.
"Yeah I've heard their blood gives humans certain things. Like super human strength."
When Jason didn't say anything I pushed, "You're using aren't you?"
"None of your business," Jason spat at me.
This wasn't going to be a productive conversation. Maybe Jason needed to be alone. His attitude made it seem like he didn't want anyone around. Especially me. I sighed looking at the window. The sun was beginning to cast longer shadows; it wasn't setting just yet but would be in a few hours. I would have to be leaving soon, "Its's getting late I should be getting back."
I began to stand and head for the door. I could walk back to Gra-Sookie's and make it in time for the sun to set. I may not know the way through the woods to her house, but I knew the roads well enough to walk alongside them and get back.
"You don't have to be going back to the house just yet," Jason sounded desperate as he grabbed my wrist, right where Eric had grabbed me two nights ago. I hissed at the tight grip on me, I could still feel Eric's cold hold on my wrist there. Eric's grip was tighter then Jason's but Jason wasn't trying to hurt me, "I…I don't want to be alone."
I sighed. Jason then knew he won, as sat back down next to him, "You have to take me back by sun down."
"Why?"
"I told Bill I'd be around the house then," I lied.
"Why would he want you back at the house?"
"We think the killer might come back. We want to discuss fortifying the house a bit more." I lied again, it was becoming so easy to do that. It was becoming too easy.
"Oh," Jason replied. It was then I realized he was still holding my wrist. He moved his hand to hold my own, and entwined our fingers, "Will you stay with me till the?"
"Sure Jason," I replied, "You got cable?"
"Yeah?"
"Let's watch some TV then, something to distract you for a bit."
"I can think of a few more things that are a bit more distracting," He began to lightly stroke the back of my hand. The touch was soft and gentle, something that seemed so foreign over the last few days. His touch felt pleasant against my skin.
Her skin is so soft-
"No Jason," I wrenched my hand away from his, I knew where he was going. It was not going to happen with me.
"What? Why?"
"We've been down this road before."
"Why the hell not? We're both attracted to each other. We're both hot. I think we'd have great sex. We never got around to it last time."
"You're hot, I'm not. Besides I already told you, I do not do one night stands."
"You're way hot," Jason purred leaning into me lightly, dropping his head onto my shoulder to kiss the crook for my neck.
His lips felt wonderful there. The gentleness felt so exotic at this point. I had been pushed and grabbed and brushed off in an aggressive manner by so many since coming back. Someone touching me so gently almost like a light massage. Jason tasted the spot he just kissed. He worked his way up my neck that way, and rested his mouth behind my ear lightly breathing on the rarely touched skin.
"Besides, you wouldn't be a 'one-night stand'," Jason whispered into my ear before lightly tugging on my ear lobe with his teeth.
There were no words to his thoughts as he touched me with his lips. All I could see what he wanted to do with me. How he wanted to do those things to me. Those images began to float through my mind, making their way down my body as his mind wanted to work its way down mine, and came to settle between the growing heat of my inner thighs. I gave into him.
I found myself turning toward him as he leaned farther against me, our chests pressed together. Jason's chest urged me towards the cushions with a gentle push, till we were lying down. He continued to kiss my jaw line while his one hand slowly worked under my blouse. The feathery touch against my abdomen made me groan, while he worked his way to my mouth with his own. Before kissing my lips, his deep hot breaths encircled my mouth. Inches apart, all I wanted to do was kiss him. His hand on my abdomen kept me from leaning up to capture his mouth. His hand forced its way under my bra. While the tugging of the fabric on my back was uncomfortable and the underwire of the other cup was painfully tugged against my skin, his heated hand felt brilliant against my breast. I felt a hitch in the pit of my stomach, when he finally cupped the sensitive skin and kneaded the tissue there. His hips ground into mine, as he took my mouth. The friction building as I felt the hardness in between my thighs as he ground into me.
My eyes closed as he deeply kissed me. A swirl of tongues and deep open mouth kisses began to cause my heart to speed up and my head to fog. The images from what he was plotting to do pushed me farther and caused my brain to turn to mush. People say knowing ahead of time ruins the surprise, but for me it was like watching an erotic film starring the only people who were involved. All of Jason's moves were calculated, every touch, every kiss, every pressure was a calculated thought. I had never seen him think so far ahead in his actions. All he could think about was burying into me and rocking me until the sun was up. At this moment in time I was more than happy to comply. A suck and nip against my lower lip caused me to moan. I didn't even realize that Jason had pushed my pencil skirt up on my stomach, as his fingers pressed against my center, only separated by the thin cloth of my cotton panties.
"Adri," A voice called in the back of my brain and brought me back to reality. I saw his penetrating blue eyes, his fanged smirk against his thin lips. Behind my closed eyes I could see him leaning against me rougher, whispering wicked things against my neck, tracing his fangs against the exposed skin. Pressing a rough hand where Jason was currently touching me. My eyes shot open as I struggled to push Jason off me. I did not need nor want those images in my brain. Jason's thought had been tainted, anything he wanted felt dirty now. I didn't want anything to do with it.
"No Jason, we can't do this," I huffed as I caught my breath and shoved him off me.
In the back of my mind I heard his voice like he was right here in front of me. Like he didn't want me doing this. He constantly hinted on wanting me but he never pushed me. Something told me this was wrong.
But it was wrong.
Jason was just using me because he didn't know how to handle the situation he was in. He didn't know how to handle these extreme emotions beyond sleeping with someone. It was something he needed to figure out right now and right quick. I wasn't going to help him forget to feel. I wasn't going to comply. I wasn't going to be used. When I gave myself to someone, they wouldn't be trying to hide behind something.
"What, Why?" Jason asked, huffing just as much as I was, struggling to catch his breath.
I couldn't even exactly tell myself why. Why had I thought of him, why did I think of him touching me that way. I was shaking a bit, a mix of arousal and fright. Something telling me that he wouldn't like this. Something told me this was to risky.
"I'm friends with your sister. I can't sleep with you because of that," I lied.
"You wouldn't be the first friend of Sookie's that I slept with."
I looked him dead in the eye then fully sat up pushing him away as I did so. Thank God he said that. With that final comment, I was no longer in the mood, "Not exactly winning favors with that."
"I..uh…I-" Jason started.
Jason had pushed himself on me. This wasn't the first time he did it either. When I would say "no", he would push and I would give. That wasn't healthy and I didn't want that. But I let him, I let him push himself on me, I let him win. I couldn't let him push me again, I couldn't let him win.
I held up a hand, "Please take me back. I think you need a minute alone."
"But-"Jason began but the look on my face told him to knock it off, "You're a loyal friend," Jason grumbled, his words had bite in them as he insulted me.
I sighed as I fixed myself up, pushed my skirt back down. I repositioned my breasts back into their proper place, out of the corner of my eye I saw Jason lick his lips. Ignoring his gaze, I stood up as I finger combed my hair and did a final fix on my blouse.
"Please take me back," I replied looking out the window. The light coming in was starting to have a deep burnt orange hue to it. How long were we making out for?
"Alright," Jason groused as he too sat up. He readjusted himself and grabbed his keys. Then headed for the door.
"Thank you," I following behind him.
The car ride back to Sookie's was silent. Jason dropped me off and drove away without watching me enter the house. I felt kind of jaded but supposing what I just did to him, I shouldn't be angry. I lead him on only to back off last second. He thought I was a tease, I couldn't blame him. I did this once before. At least he was kind enough to drop me off again. No one gave him enough credit, but Jason Stackhouse was a good guy.
The sun was still a few hours from setting as I entered the house. I sighed as I kicked off my shoes by the back door. I raked my hand through my hair, deciding to go upstairs and comb the rat's nest.
"And where have you been?" Tara accused from the kitchen.
"I was with Jason," I replied wanting nothing more than to just go upstairs and be alone for five minutes to recover from the exhausting people infused day. My inner introvert was all extroverted out.
"Mmmmhmmm, and we were here cleaning up the house after all those vulture's left," Tara's tone was so close to being threatening.
"Someone needed to be with Jason, seeing as you two were here for Sookie," I replied dryly as I headed up the stairs, "Jason lost his grandma too."
"Jason Stackhouse hit his sister then shoved Andy like he was nothing," Tara continued to follow me up the stairs in the foyer.
"He was upset. You know he works out too," I replied.
"He also takes vampire blood. He didn't make you take any, did he?"
"I don't do drugs. Comes along with being a pharmacist."
"I read somewhere that pharmacists were the most likely to abuse drugs over any other profession."
"Well I don't do drugs. If you excuse me I'm gonna go upstairs and brush my hair."
"Did you fuck him?" Tara asked, I stopped half way up the stairs at that and turned to face her.
"I would never sleep with Jason," I needed to assert myself at Tara's accusation, I could feel my nose slightly flush. I almost did but she did not need to know that.
"It sure looks like you did," Tara responded folding her arms over her chest.
"I don't care what it looks like, Tara. I did not sleep with Jason Stackhouse. I wouldn't do that for the sake of Sookie," I retaliated and just for good measure, "And for yours too."
Tara looked taken back by my comment. Good I had her.
"Oh please Tara, it's as obvious as Sam liking Sookie. I've known since I first came down south, that you have a crush on Jason. Even if he doesn't reciprocate, I respect you as a friend. I would not sleep with Jason for you," I countered, "I'm gonna go upstairs now and take a quick nap. But I'll be back down to help you guys with whatever is left to do."
Tara didn't have any comment to say back so I took that as my release to go. I went into my bedroom and closed the door behind me. I leaned against it and pushed my hair away from my face. I was exhausted, I can't remember the last time I got any sleep. It feels like days. It probably has been twenty-four hours since I got any. I pushed off the door and opened the window a crack to have some fresh air circulating the room as I slept.
I looked at the phone I left on the charger by the bed. I picked it up as I sat on the bed, setting an alarm, it would give me two hours for a nap. I had to be up to help them clean up after people had left. Otherwise I'd be hearing about it from Tara. After setting the phone back down I crawled under the covers and brought them over my head for a little more darkness in the room. Even though Jason probably hadn't lived in the house for years the bed still smelled like him a little. I brought my knees to my stomach as I breathed in his scent. It was almost to faint to smell but I could make out the mix of cologne and him. I closed my eyes and rubbed my arms as I fell asleep, remembering how Jason felt pressed up against me. Even though it felt wrong at the moment, imaging someone holding me…was what I needed right now.