(( Thank you for helping me get to 100 reviews, especially you DDG, who went back and reviewed all chapters leading up to 10! The song I picked for this Chapter, which will be long, is something I felt fit it perfectly (or at least the emotion I am trying to set). Now, it's not the normal music I listen to or post for chapters, but I can't deny the masterpiece of this song!
Halo – Beyonce
P.S. One theme in here, kind of obvious, is not very 'Wesker-like'. I made sure to do the worst thing a man could do after such an important moment to a woman, because it is Wesker!))
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Chapter 11: Halo
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I withdrew myself from the table after a few moments of registering that there was someone at the door. The thought of me leaving was something that had occurred to me several times before, but the fact that time was scarce was never more real. Yet, I was grateful – grateful for the fact my emotions hadn't run away with me; the stress was nearly nonexistent.
I glided across the floor like some angelic creature, making my way to the front door which was tucked away within two set of walls. Wesker was hiding back in the wicker chair located in the corner of the other side of one of the open doorway's walls, hidden from sight but within listening distance. I made sure to peek around the edge of the door frame and send him a glare entitled 'behave'.
After seeing the menacing look of mine in the reflection of his shades, I felt satisfied enough that he received the message and I straightened my body to the door.
"Who is it?" I offered a bored tone as I flung the door open, uncaring if it was a thief; how bad of an ordeal for him that'd be.
"…Hey," Leon coolly spoke as he fumbled with his aviator sunglasses to offer me a glance into his blue pools.
"When you say you're coming… you're really coming," I smirked while peering up at him through arched brows.
I had just adjusted my weight comfortably by pushing one hip outwards and resting my forehead on the arm I placed to block his view inwards, when he tried to just that.
"Can I come in?" His voice flowed like melted butter.
"Why are you here?" I interjected.
"To check on you – I told you this… and to take you to Rani's."
"Listen, I just got home –"His face stared at me blankly and I knew that even if I finished my sentence he was going to stick around.
"Let me go get Claire-bear," I sighed my words, turning and darting to my packed boxes before he could ask questions.
The whole time I rummaged through the box I could sense Wesker's eyes watching the movements of my hips, swaying back and forth, and I suppose I over exaggerated my movements on his account. A tinge of arousal struck into my core. Months ago, I would not have noticed such a slight sensation; he put forth a lot of effort to hide unnecessary emotions, thinking about it made me roll my eyes.
A heard a creek in my door and rapidly turned around to face Leon, my motion lost somewhere in time due to my startled reaction.
"You ready?" Leon asked softly. He did not notice my ungodly movement.
A simple nod was all I gave and I met Leon before he could venture in far enough that his turn around would bring him face to face with Albert Wesker. I didn't even want such a thing for myself and avoided eye contact with the man who undoubtedly was curious to why I was giving in to this. Didn't he trust me? I wouldn't be gone for long…
Upon my deck, the door closed and locked, Leon turned to face me with the most taunting glare. I tilted my head in question and he began to prod and closely stare at the skin of my neck.
"What are you doing?" I giggled out and shoved him away.
"Just checking… I don't want to be interrupting anything."
"Are you talking about the marks you found on my neck?" I placed my hands upon my hips and pressed my tongue into the corner of my mouth in a cocky form of disbelief.
"The hickeys."
"They weren't hickeys!" I snapped and hit my shoulder into his arm as I advanced forward.
"Hey, take it easy," Leon's tone was laced with restraint of laughter to which I ignored, my eyes glued on the black BMW below.
"Rental?" Only one brow rose this time as I smirked. It was impossible for him to drive here in such short of time.
"More or less," He responded as we both walked down the steps of my deck. He was quite the gentleman, letting me in first, and I smiled to myself.
Harvadville wasn't far from where I lived, a mere hour being that I too lived in one of the towns that surrounded Raccoon. Although I was never home much, I still enjoyed the peacefulness of being out in the country.
"So are you ever going to tell me what went down?" I faced his profile after his question, one I knew he would ask eventually on this trip.
"Yes… I suppose I could," I decided as I shifted my gaze back towards the road. My eyes chased the trees on either side of the gravel as I searched for the words.
"Ada Wong came within the night with an unknown woman, a specimen in cloaked attire," I began, Leon double taking towards me after the word 'Ada'.
"I had her in my grasp, but they threatened Rani and I soon became unconscious. Though, I remember her saying there were plans for me," I turned to look at Leon who was not only gripping the wheel tightly, but staring almost in pain at the road before him.
"You okay?" I questioned before he relaxed to glance quickly at me with shifting eyes and an immobile head.
"Yeah… continue."
"I awakened in time to watch the cloaked individual come to demise. She was being tested under a new form of the Progenitor virus, much like P50 but without need of constant circulation through the bloodstream. However, it was too close to Uroboros and eventually consumed her -- just like the villagers," I shook my head, "She was taken out by my own doing, but I was incoherent and forgot about Ada. The next thing I knew, I was awake through my mind but not my body. I could not open my eyes, but I could feel with my mind. Yet, I was not scared," I sighed.
"Uroboros bonds with certain blood connections… is that what happened?"
"Yes," I nodded. "When you said our blood was altered by the viruses within Raccoon, giving you pain tolerance and I speed, our blood became susceptible to be 'chosen ones'. Jill's could not bond with it because with the Nemesis virus within her, she created an antidote for the majority of the ingredients in Uroboros. We, however, became the perfect carriers," My lips refined to a thin line.
"Can you infect me?"
"I don't think so," I said truthfully, "The only reason I was able to figure out what the hell was going on was through a hard drive I stole before leaving Africa. Keep in mind that Wesker put a bunch of shit in me… I have no idea what I am or what I'm capable of. I just know that I'm able to control it at a happy medium and live a semi-normal life," I produced an answer that would put him at ease. Of course, I'd never live a normal life – not the road I'm going towards.
We sat in silence for a moment, my hands folded within my lap and head lightly touching the car window. After my little explanation, I began to wonder what I was capable of. My experience with Umbrella pointed to extending limbs, blood bursting into fire, large talons, tentacles, and other bizarre deformities. Suddenly warmth caressed me, a touch I experienced through every vein; I could not explain such a sensation.
"Thanks for being strong," Leon whispered and it was then I noticed his hand was upon mine.
"No need to say anything, Leon, we all have our cross to bear," I shushed, but I could sense the corners of his mouth frown.
"At least you could escape…" He seemed to speak more to himself. At least he didn't say anymore on Ada…
The sign for Harvardville appeared far more quickly than I anticipated and Rani's home was just ahead. Before I knew it, we were in the driveway and Leon was helping me out and to the front door of the cream colored home. I stared at the house in awe as I climbed out; I was taken back that the last time I was here my life changed forever. My nerves became unsettled and I experienced it through each step up to the front door. Leon and I knocked at the same time unintentionally, but it was too late to laugh about it.
The door crackled to unlock and eased open. There, Aunt's plump face came into view with and soon ignited the flame of excitement.
"Come in! Come in!" She chanted as she opened the door for us, to which Leon raised an arm over my short height to hold for me.
"So good to see you!" Aunt patted my face as she acknowledged my presence.
"Is Rani here?" I smiled, giving Aunt a tight hug.
"Yes! Of course!" Aunt twisted her body to the stairs, "Rani!"
Little footsteps grew closer as Rani moved her walk into a sprint down the stairs.
"Claire!" Rani shouted, giggling as her arms found my waistline, "Are you feeling better?"
I rested a hand on her head and rubbed, "Yes, thank you. Leon and I brought you Claire-bear," I smiled with my words while Leon snaked around me to offer the girl her teddy bear.
"Oh! Thank you! It smells like you…" Rani brought the bear to her face and inhaled.
No words could wiggle passed my throat, probably because Rani was so adorable to me. I merely peered over my shoulder up at Leon who smiled down with bright, blue hues.
"Would you two like some tea?" Aunt had her whistling tea pot in hand as she shared glances between Leon and I. Our eyes didn't part.
"Sure," Leon shrugged.
-=-=-=-=-=-
The sun was an hour from setting when we finally prepared ourselves to leave. Aunt had a lot to say, which was fine for Leon and I; we nodded along and listened with interest within our eyes. Taking those first few steps out the door was both refreshing and overwhelming. The cooling air tamed my warmed skin from the cups of tea and cozy atmosphere, but reminded me that I was probably never going to return.
"You okay?" Leon's voice drew my attention as I finished waving to the two figures in the doorway: Rani and Aunt.
"Yeah," I smiled, "Why?" I turned to face Leon.
"No reason."
This time I rushed passed Leon to let myself in and her didn't seem to mind as he slid into the driver's seat. As soon as my belt buckle was clasped, I eyed Leon curiously.
"Where to now?" I inquired, my lips pursed.
"You'll see," He spoke quietly as he gazed at something upon my face, "Your cheeks are flushed." He commented, seeming to answer my questionable gaze at why his attention lingered on me more than the road.
"I feel fine," I brought my hands to my cheeks to check if I was radiating heat and he smirked, saying nothing more.
A smile curled across my light pink lips as I moved my head slowly to glance in our direction. The sun was now cut in half by the Earth, peering just over the horizon with its radiant hues that instantly reminded me of Wesker's eyes. Then, landmarks began to jog my memory into a place it did not want to be.
"Are you taking me to Harvardville Airport?" I jolted my head to Leon, impatiently awaiting his response.
"Just wait," He coaxed.
We pulled up to the outskirts of the Airport, which had since been revamped and revoked of its yellow tape. Where we parked was the exact spot where WilPharma's supply truck exploded. The thought of Downing still left a bitter taste within my mouth. I quickly got out of the car and stalked over to the site where tents used to occupy and then to where the fire took place. There, I squatted and threw a couple pieces of gravel to the side.
"Everything heals," Leon's voiced was like a string, pulling my chin to my shoulder to peer at him.
"That it does…" I murmured as my hues began to succumb to the molten lava within, glowing like a moat around my pupil and then fading away in the purple.
"I'm sorry about Ada," I decided to own up to the fact I basically desecrated one side of her face, but he didn't know that yet.
"Hm…" He offered me a hand after circling my body, moving from behind me to the front. I placed my own within his, using it to bring myself to stand, and once again locking eyes with Leon S. Kennedy.
"Just another thing I can't have…" He surprised me with such words, causing my eyes to widen and my lips to part slowly.
My mouth ran dry as I peered into what seemed like his soul. As his breath left his nostrils smoothly, mine began to leave my mouth in a stagger. His face grew closer to mine and I used my senses to analyze his heart rate. Despite his calm appearance on the outside, his heart was beating faster than my own.
"Leon…" I whispered, staring up at him with my purple hues. Long ago, I would have wanted this --- to be normal and live a life with a long time friend who knew me for who I was, not what I have become.
His face was now tilted and directed his eased breath on my mouth. Smiling softly, I prepared myself to welcome his touch.
No…!
"Leon!" I shouted, instantly falling back and gasping for air after rationalization punched me in the chest, "what are you doing?" I stuttered. I was disgusted with myself…
"I'm sorry, I thought –"I stared at him as he tried to explain, "I guess I don't know what I thought." His shoulders slumped.
"Leon, I'm sorry… I-I didn't mean to act as I did," I searched the ground as I spoke, more than ready to continue, but he interrupted me.
"Let's take you home," He smiled and sauntered towards the passenger door of the BMW, "Come get in."
"Alright," I nodded with my words, giving him the most loving smile I could without giving my heart away.
-=-=-=-=-=-
The rest of the ride home was in silence, yet it was not of awkwardness, but the fact I slept a good half of the way. Even though this amounted only to thirty minutes, I was content when I awoke and blinked the sleep from my eyes. During my slumber, I remember hearing a few attempts of someone trying to contact Leon, but he was too polite to disturb me by answering.
"Where are we?" I groaned, stretching my limbs as I erected myself in the passenger's seat.
"Pulling in… in three… two…" The car veered right and I finally noticed the bumpy rhythm of the gravel road beneath; it took me a bit to wake up.
One of my hands met my face to rub away the tears that my eyes had produced to coax away the dryness and I yawned as I did. As Leon departed from the vehicle to let me out, I quickly pulled out my phone to check the time. To my surprise, it was almost midnight, and I had left Wesker to himself all day.
How much trouble can one man get into? Well, it is Wesker… and he kind of deserves it.
I unhinged my seatbelt and climbed out with the help of one hand from Leon. My next objective was to make sure he knew I appreciated his help while secretly saying my goodbyes – and keep him from entering the house.
"Thank you Leon," I retrieved my hand back from him. "I don't know what I would do without you, ever, and I'm sorry it is rare that we see each other these days. I know it has been years since we last met face-to-face before the airport incident," I felt tears beginning to dwell behind my lids and I was grateful I was not as numb as I started out the first few months of my awakening.
"Hey, don't mention it," He smiled at me softly. "I'm here for you any time—just let me know. I'm sure Chris will be contacting me soon to get the low down or to make sure you're all right." I rolled my eyes at this. Chris…
There was a pause between us, one I had to break by simply nodding and glancing off to the side. Leon's crooked index finger caught under my chin and tilted my gaze back to his where he stared at me with a concerned expression.
"I'm alright," I murmured and assured him with gesturing hands. "Thanks for being such a great friend," I said just as softly, coming to terms of just how hard it was to be inconspicuous and moved at the same time.
"Catch you later."
I stood back and watched him run around the front to the driver's door. He paused for a moment, stared at me, and offered me a smile. My arms were now folded across my chest and I offered a couple of fingers by the bend of my elbow as a good-bye wave. I also had a similar smile across my face for I knew Leon and I understood each other to a depth. He would be missed, everyone would be… Though, in my heart, I knew this was the right choice.
The gravel gave easily underneath his tires as he backed out. Such a sound was no melody to my heart, but it also meant new beginnings to come. I stepped aside and watched him leave; his piercing blue eyes beaming at me before he saluted me 'so long' with his two fingers. I stifled a laugh until he was out of sight, then, I turned my back on him and all else.
In silence I glanced at my extended driveway which was lit by a single yard lamp and the only outdoor light for miles. Once the crickets picked up their song, I turned and began to head to my deck with ease. As soon as my foot left the ground to replant itself on the first step, the crickets stopped. A jolt of adrenaline traveled through my veins and to meet its needs I spun my head around to view if anything lied behind me; I didn't sense anything.
Blackness struck, engulfing me whole, and I couldn't move against the steel force that held my arms to my sides.
-=-=-=-=-=-
I growled against my restraints, the thought of being helpless strength wise had never occurred to me since my transformation. As I was slammed into place, sitting in a moderately comfortable, cushioned bench, I listened intently to the sound of helicopter blades around me. Ohhh hell no, I groaned in my mind, completely against this to the extent that I started to thrash.
"Hmmph."
The bag that had been blocking my sight was removed. My hot hues shot about as I snarled fiercely, but I saw no faces until a light whistle directed my gaze elsewhere.
"Al-Albert?!" I shouted, preparing myself to stand, but he scowled and waved me down before taking the spot next to me.
Instantly, I calmed down.
"Doesn't anyone think that I get tired of traveling?" I sighed out as the helicopter lifted from the ground and adding a drop in my stomach.
"It's your job."
"Where are we off to this time, sugar plum?" I taunted my question after his obvious statement.
"Spare me," Wesker huffed, clearly frustrated at my disappearance.
Though, as I stared at his profile, I noticed the wrinkles in his face cease and relax. Was he worried about me? I suppose I didn't give it a thought until now that Leon could hide me away rather easily, I mean, it took Wesker forever to find Spencer and he had no government help in hiding. I feared Wesker would always be afraid of expressing love, but, he hadn't ceased to amaze me yet.
"Sometimes, I almost wonder if this is real," My thoughts became outspoken unintentionally.
"You read my journal," He said suddenly, sternly staring ahead, and within my core ecstasy made itself known; Wesker was trying to hide his emotions… again.
A moment of silence was made, the sound of the wind against the copter and the twirl of its blades filling in the spots where we should have been speaking about where we were headed or at least this huge commitment I was making.
"How are you feeling?" I turned my head to face the person who had asked the question: Wesker.
"Like myself," I half smiled, but now I was thinking about it. When I was with Leon, the only thing that kept me from kissing him was my loyalty to Wesker. Even then, I experienced anxiety at the thought of leaving him behind. Nothing I couldn't ignore, but truth be told I wasn't myself without Wesker close.
"Oh!" I had almost forgotten, "Sherry."
"What about her?"
"You developed the cloak outfit for her, designed after the darkest bird or the crow, in order to help her hide her severely charred and damaged skin," I began.
"I made a white one too," Wesker snuck in between my pauses.
"… Anyways, I want to research into a cure to help fix her. I don't want her to hide anymore," My tone was at its utmost seriousness. He needed to know that I felt strong on this.
"There will always be scars," He murmured and finally gave me his gaze.
I shrugged, "Better than nothing, Al."
"I'll consider it," He peered at me through the corner of his eye with his head dipped low.
I studied him for a moment, noting how very guarded he was despite knowing me for so long. The man always tucked his head away, his hands were always up to block or by his gun, and he never faced a person completely. My hand reached forth and softly rested on his left forearm.
"Thank you…" I whispered and his twisted a little more in my direction.
"Hmm."
His response was expected, but it didn't keep me from resting my head on his shoulder. I enjoyed the scent of the leather fabric of his jacket, but not as much as I adored the fragrance I could smell from his neck in this position. The musk of Wesker – how do I explain it? – It is deep, but sweet in its own way, older, but not overbearing, and it is an aroma the nose cannot adjust to. Meaning, no matter how long I inhaled him, I could never cease to recognize it.
During the trip, I was unfortunate to ponder about all my concerns. Though, it wasn't the normal human thinking; it was like I was noting issues, differences, and tasks instead. I did not dwell on an issue for too long before I moved onto the next, my mind no longer worked that way. My body functioned to keep me strong, on guard, and healthy both physically and mentally.
"Rest," Wesker's voice moved into my mind while his hand brushed back my fallen bangs.
"Are you calm now?" Only his ears could hear my voice.
"I couldn't have you running off again, my lady, and admit I wasn't in the most pleasant of moods." At least he could own up. "I also noticed your face patterns. What is bothering you?" Ut oh.
"I'm sacrificing a lot, you know," I breathed, "and it seems wrong – my heart won't even ache for what I'm leaving behind. Yet, I have such strong emotions for you. It doesn't make sense," My voice lost its life.
"You have much to learn about yourself. I have had ten years and I am still transforming. You have become independent, but for the first time in your life, you have a purpose besides doing what is right and making the world 'better'."
"And what is that?" I lifted my head up to find his eyes locked on mine. Wasn't I still making the world better by keeping Wesker in check – he the yin and I the yang? Wasn't the lives of others still my purpose, or was there something I was missing that I had a larger role in?
"Your purpose now is to be," His lips twitched as if struggling to say the words, "happy… with me."
My lips parted to offer him a slight squeak of air trying to pass through my throat; there were no words. What he meant was, that all my life I have been satisfied doing what I love for others, and now was the time to think about myself. Of course, Wesker knew very well about thinking about one's self.
"Do you trust me?" I finally was able to say.
"Yes," He said softly, his face closing into mine. My hand moved to his cheek, caressing the stubble that barely broke the surface.
"What is your purpose, now that Uroboros cannot be done? Now that… I am here?"
He leaned into my, his lips cracking open to breathe his sweet taste into my mouth as he spoke, preparing to kiss me when he was finished.
"My purpose," his lips almost touched mine and my body stressed for his words to be done, "is…"
Turbulence vibrated the helicopter but failed to move our stone frames; we were the indestructible partners and I took pride in being Excella's well-suited replacement. Yet, before he could finish his heated words the copter began to descend and the pilot let us know how far from landing we were.
"Bah," Wesker growled and the pilot became silent. As his head was turned, giving a death glare, I softly observed the features of his profile.
Albert Wesker… my brother and he were counter opposites, but yet I found him the most fascinating person on this planet. He was reserved, crude at times, un-loyal to anyone but himself, but he was the challenge I wanted to partake in and complete. The progress I had made so far was exceptional. He had refused Excella, despite her romantic take on him, and he had come back for me. Albert Wesker came back for me—and he admitted he had been wrong to turn me away.
"Where are we anyways?" I glanced up while Wesker stood and approached the sliding door of the copter.
"The Spencer Estate," He casually pronounced as he hopped out and offered me a hand. Though, he was much more forceful than Leon; he actually tugged me out.
"Wait," I made a swift landing then stuck my hands in the back of my jeans, "The same estate where you killed him?"
He nodded. "Not to worry, his body has been cleaned up and the window boarded."
"Yes, that's fine, but why are we here?" We had landed down on a flat piece of land below the estate which was propped up on a cliff. It was like Dracula's castle, glaring down on the inhabitants and daring them to enter.
"I have to pick up a few things and I may need to depart soon after." My heart jumped.
"Will you be back?" I tried not to ask too quickly after he mentioned his leave. However, he still stared at me through his shades to answer my question.
"Okay, dumb question," I smirked. "Let's start making the long trek up the hill."
Side by side we advanced at a regular pace, but not before Wesker sent the Pilot off with his payment. Wesker was wealthy and successful, no one could deny that, but possessions were nothing to him. He valued his work, his virtues, and me if he didn't consider me a possession.
The walk was pleasant for we were able to take pleasure in it. We did not use the speed we acquired and simply soaked in the attributes of Europe. I wonder where Chris is…
"Venture on in and make yourself comfortable. Your belongings are already within but packed," He smirked at my impressed expression. "We won't be here for long."
"How did you – never mind," I left it alone. I couldn't imagine Wesker packing more of my things. Unless, he just grabbed the boxes I had brought from Chris's. I went into the home to go see what he had done.
After searching the Mansion I stumbled upon the Master bedroom. I cringed at the thought of it being Spencer's, the crazed, old scientist and founder of Umbrella, but the room seemed clean. In the far right corner was a wheel chair and a few unused IV bags. I recalled in Wesker's Journal there being a segment about the poor health Spencer was in prior to his death.
"You found it!" Wesker's voice was like a knife going into its sheath. He called from behind me before he used a bolt of speed to close the space between us.
"Yeah, it is gorgeous, very antique-oak oriented," I complimented while staring at the mixture of brown and red wood finishing.
"Let us go to bed," He pressed a hand into my back and directed me to the bed. "I can see your exhaustion."
There was no doubt about that, I was mentally and physically drained. By the time I reached the bed, my knees at the edge, my clothes were nearly half off me. Wesker proceeded to undress me until my panties and fitted T were all that was left. He rested my bra and pants on the wheel chair and defied time to make it back to the bed before me. I crawled in as soon as he peeled back the corner of the comforter and sheets.
"Are you coming in with me?" I asked sheepishly as he covered me up.
"It is intended," He removed his shades and carefully set them next to the lamp on his night stand.
A sigh released itself passed my lips as I snuggled into the covers, which smelt of dust. Then, just as I hoped, the weight of the bed changed as my six foot lover crawled in. Turning on my left side, I stared at the design engraved on the lamp at my own personal night stand; the symbol was a plant leaf with some sort of tribal light or fire symbol. Interesting… I yawned.
"Goodnight, Al," I used a silly but affectionate tone; 'Al' always reminded me of Aladdin. He answered me with the steel grip of his arms coiling around my petite, toned waste.
-=-=-=-=-=-
The putrid scent of rotten eggs covered with decaying flesh awoke my senses. If Spencer had a cat, who somehow could survive without eating, then I would say it brought me a house warming gift. My eyes slowly opened, blinking against the rays of the rising sun peeping in the window, and attempting to adjust to the blur that coated their sight.
Last night, I had rolled onto Wesker's bare chest and soaked up his warmth like a rabbit resting on the road at night for a similar reason; it was just as pleasurable, but just as deadly. I knew I was vulnerable when I slept, but he hadn't cared to dispose of me yet and I didn't believe he ever would. Maybe it was me who was having troubles trusting him. Now, I laid in the middle of the king sized bed – what an ironic name for Spencer's type of bed – and was definitely alone.
My eyes soon adjusted enough to see the culprit for such a smell: a Progenitor flower on my night stand in all its sunset color glory.
"Ack," I grimaced and swiped the stupid flower onto the floor.
C-c-link.
"What the hell was that?" I questioned into my pillow which I had pulled into a death hug to my chest.
Thinking I may have broken something, I groaned and forced myself to sit up and stretch towards the ceiling. I licked the morning breath flavor at the roof of my mouth in hopes to settle the poor taste with new saliva. I hope Wesker isn't making some metal version of the stinky Progenitor virus…
I scooted to the edge of the bed and swung my feet around, letting my legs dangle as I rubbed my face to stimulate blood flow. Before my lilac hues could search about for the creator of the noise, I noticed a small note that had been lying under the flower.
"Sherry is downstairs and will explain the next step. I am out for the time being."
For real, Wesker? My eyes finally descended to the floor and scanned around the flower.
There, shimmering in the sunlight that was casted on the wooden floor was a silver item. Using my hands on either side of me to ease myself up carefully to silence the creaking of the bed, I came to a stand. I slowly moved my bare feet towards the object, staring at it as though it was deadly and moving like it too. When it was right below me and between my feet, I squatted down and picked up the circular object between my thumb and pointer.
It was a Platinum Antique Bezel and Pave Set Engagement Ring.
"Oh…" I gasped, my free hand covering my mouth at the object that had been on the stem of the flower.
I examined the ring with a quivering hand. The middle diamond was average and circular, maybe slightly squared to add more shimmer to the cut, and the band that held it had elegant, smaller diamonds implanted. Wesker certainly knew how to get my attention and this ring was everything I could ever ask for. It was the old fashioned with the one base diamond and new age with the tinier diamonds around the band. Oh, and it was silver; I hate any type of gold rings. The only issue was that it seemed extremely expensive.
"I can't believe this…" I whispered out loud as I slid the engagement offering on my ring finger; it was a perfect fit.
"I know, neither can I."
I sharply turned around to view Sherry in the doorway. I had been so carried away with this seemingly impossible event that I hadn't sensed her arrival from downstairs.
"Did you know about this?" I stood slowly.
"Not really, but when he was angrily pacing in the Prison area back by the volcanoes I realized what you meant to him. You have a connection with him by blood, something that will always draw you to him and sense his emotions; it is must stronger with you. He, on the other hand, experiences closeness with you through blood connection, but has nothing tying him down. So, if he was pissed at himself for how he treated you and second guessing you leaving him – I'd say that means something," Sherry finished.
"Thanks for that but," I swallowed hard. "Are you saying that my emotions were irritated because something draws me to him?"
"He told you that you experienced moments as if you were 'in heat' when you were without him. This eventually will change over time to a simple longing for him. He was able to use what Spencer had used on him, the anxiety to which if he was ever lost he would always look to find Spencer," Sherry informed.
"Yes, I read about that. So he wouldn't be forced to always wonder about Spencer's whereabouts he killed him. Killing him ended the constant nervousness when his creator and he were apart," I approached Sherry as I spoke. She simply nodded, agreeing to my words.
"If you were to ever leave, you'd be lost without him, and eventually come looking for him. I'm sure he planned to end your life once you were used up, but found the way you handled situations made you worthy of life. Obviously, you are a chosen one, but nevertheless intrigued him to a deeper extent," As she spoke her last sentence, she snatched my hand and gazed at the rock that complimented my fair skin.
"He left me a note and said you'd explain," I reminded her.
"You will be traveling with me to the next destination. Wesker has everything ready there if you are to accept his proposal." I smiled at her and told her my answer. "He also wanted me to help you find a dress – no price limits."
"Is that all really necessary?" She nodded to my question and I sighed. "Then, I want a dress like my mother's…" She paused and lowered the hood of her cloak, revealing her pale blonde strands; I could see the mild part of the damage to her skin on her scalp.
"And what was your mother's dress like?"
"Elegant and graceful… the train was long and the straps of the gown fell loosely on her shoulders…" I rambled on and she intently seemed to watch me through the mask upon her face.
"So, what it sounds like is," She took a breath. "An A-line dress, for your defined waistline, an off the shoulder strap for the hourglass figure, and a long train?"
"Did you research this?" I blinked at her.
"Don't ask."
"Yes, that sounds right," I smiled. I only had a day or so to plan this so there was no room to be picky.
"Sounds stunning, but, do you mind if I make the top corset oriented?"
"Not at all, Sherry," I grinned.
"Okay, come with me downstairs and I'll take your measurements. I'll see if France has something in," She began throwing out ideas as she led me down the stairs.
"W-wait, France?" I began to gripe about how expensive this was clearly going to get. "Sherry, I'm the tomboy remember? I'm not overly picky, I'm –"
"Shut up and stand on the stool," Sherry snapped and interrupted me.
From that moment on I listened to Sherry and stood as still as possible as she stripped me down and measured me. I was unsure who worked for Sherry or Wesker at this time, but I imagined it could be anyone. What a shame it was to work every day, unknowing Uroboros was just hours from being dispensed into the atmosphere and it was all because of your employer.
"Alright, I'm all done and I'm going to call up some people and send them these measurements."
"What are you going to tell them when they ask why you want a wedding dress?" I curiously asked her.
"The truth," She said simply and stalked off into the other room.
I watched her white cloak flow as she departed and thought to myself that it was time to prepare for the day. Glancing at the ring one more time upon my left hand, I rotated to the stairs and ascended to the bathroom.
-=-=-=-=-=-
"We're still constructing the helipad! You're going to have to jump with me!" Sherry shouted over the immense amount of wind flowing into the open plane.
"Where are we?" I squinted against the wind as I yelled back.
"Indonesia, North of Australia, and by the island Biak!"
"What the hell are we doing here?" I raised my voice even higher as I peered down below. Sherry gave me a parachute.
"I'll explain when we get down there. Your items are coming by boat! This is a private island!"
"Alright!" I threw myself off the edge, plummeting fast.
I glanced down at the blue water and smiled to myself. I had only seen the ocean when flying over it. Now, I would see it up close and get to touch it.
"Pull your chute!" Sherry cried out and I did just that.
The straps tightened under my arms and jerked my body upwards to cease my speed. A winded flutter was heard soon after from Sherry's chute being released. During our decent I observed my legs dangling before a set of trees, sand bars, a mansion in the middle, and a large green house to the north of it.
I landed gracefully with a pleasant oof and detached myself from the chute that was gradually falling behind me. I heard a flutter in the trees.
"G-a-ha… Claire!" Sherry called for me and was struggling against something. My lilac hues traveled upwards to her chute caught in a tree.
"Get me down?" She almost pleaded as her body swayed in hopes to wiggle free.
"Undo your straps!"
"I can't, my weight is keeping them too tight." I rolled my eyes, as if Sherry weighted more than 105 pounds…
"Al-le-up!" I playfully murmured before jumping to hug the nearest tree.
I shimmied up it, leaping from one tree to the next until I was beside her and reaching for her hand. Once her hand was in mine, I brought her in my direction and removed my knife from the hoister at my hip. I gave her a reassuring gaze and swiped my hand above her head with enough force to slice through the straps easily.
"Claire!" She screeched as her body fell with our hands still connected.
One arm hooked on the base of the tree, I kept her tightly within my palm and allowed her to grab my wrist with her other hand.
"I'm going to swing you to that bush and let you go, okay?" I smiled at her.
"O-okay," She nodded and I did just as I said.
Upon release, she was quiet, but I could hear her soft distress pants as she struggled to part from the bush. I jumped down to assist her and put my knife back in its holder.
"You okay?"
"Yes, thanks Claire. Shall we?" I nodded.
We advanced through the mini jungle to the mansion that sat in between. Though, it wasn't much of a mansion, it was just the size of one. Inside of it was a bit humid, but it had a number of large fans to keep the air circulating. I imagined it was rather cool in this place at night.
"Please don't go in there," Sherry pointed past me to a set of white double doors. "Anywhere else is free game."
"What about the plant dome thing outside?" I tilted my head and she looked at me.
"The new project."
"Go on," I walked over to a large, white coffee table that accented another wooden establishment.
"We discovered a plant in Indonesia and that was the main reason for me being sent to Australia. In this area, the wildlife was abundant. The tribe known as Asmat would send their men to actually kill and retrieve the animals in order to keep the population from exceeding. We were curious about this and studied a few of the animals that were brought back. Some, we even contracted with numerous of viruses. No matter what we did, their condition stayed intact on the outside. The animals not killed, seemed to live forever…"
"You found the Fountain of Youth…" I whispered.
"Definitely like it… Wesker is aging everyday and he cannot rule a world if he is to die eventually. Perhaps, if the project becomes successful you can live with him forever too."
"I don't want to rule the world, Sherry," A weak smile formed.
"Whatever you two decide to do, you are in this together, but I suggest you approve of this new finding. After all, the world is a cruel place when you're a freak." There was bitterness in Sherry's voice, one that told me she had learned firsthand.
"Moving on," She led me over to a set of glass doors and spread them. "This is our little computer room. You have access to everything and anything now so go crazy. However, be sure not to abuse it. You may have information overload." I laughed at her words and she pulled open a drawer to give me a key card.
"There are loud speakers about the house; you can access them here or in the control room upstairs. On each computer there you can check security, view the progress of the dome outside, or browse the web—it is up to you," She informed me.
"Thanks Sherry," I gave her a hug to which she returned.
"Don't mention it. I'm going to head to the docks and await the arrival of your gown. Wesker will be here soon. I hope you're ready to get married," She winked at me and turned to leave.
"Hey Sherry!" I reached out to her and she turned her head to offer me an ear.
"I'm scared and… I wish Chris was here…"
"I know, but it is better this way… you know that," She spoke softly with understanding and continued on.
As soon as she was gone I contemplated taking a peak into the 'forbidden room' but instead decided to make my way outside and towards the green house. As I walked along the stone path from the house to the dome, I carefully stepped over vine overgrowth and peered about in attempt to determine the direction of the ocean.
The green house door had a panel before the handle. I observed it for a moment before I slid my key into it, the light turning green, and a boxed voice speaking out to me.
"Welcome, Claire."
I preceded into the complex and viewed large rows of crimson red lilies with leaves the size of dollar bills. They smell a lot better than the Progenitor virus, I thought as I continued on to the back of the room near a set of computers. There, on the desk, was the same symbol of the leaf and energy drawing around it I had saw at the Spencer Estate.
"The leaf must be what has the special effects," I spoke my thoughts out loud as I moved to examine one of the plants, gentling touching one of the large leaves.
I dug a thumb nail into the leaf, a yellow substance oozing out and smelling of peppermint schnapps.
"Claire…" I veered around and gave my frontal view to Sherry. "Let's get you ready." She smiled warmly to me and I walked to her.
-=-=-=-=-=-
The reflection in the mirror wasn't me. A red-brown haired goddess with skin of white silk wore a fantasy wedding dress. The top hugged her bosom and created mounds just above the white lining; it was cleavage to die for. In the back were crisscross ties, a corset style that cascaded down to her firm rump. From the bottom of her corset top, leaked the flow of smooth fabric over her hips and only slightly out from her body. The design of the bottom half of the gown was much like Bell's in Beauty and the Beast; it was folded but not overly done, just enough to have elegance.
Slow moving hands touched the rime stones that decorated the front of her top and down to the silk bottom, then back to drag the ruffled train around into view.
"She is beautiful," I choked out at the reflection of the woman in the mirror.
"She is you," Sherry smiled with her words, for I could not see if she truly smiled, and stuck the bristles of my veil into my wavy, pulled back locks. "I will hold on to your train and follow you down the stairs. You can enter that room now, if you haven't already…"
Once she was behind me we traveled out the door and down the stairs to the double white doors. Once we came to a stop, she dropped my train and came to rest her hands on my shoulders.
"Wait here," She whispered and moved passed me, slinking through a small crack she created in the doors.
"Come in!"
Remember those walls I built?
Well, baby they're tumbling down
And they didn't even put up a fight
They didn't even make up a sound
I found a way to let you in
But I never really had a doubt
Standing in the light of your halo
I got my angel now
It's like I've been awakened
Every rule I had you breakin'
It's the risk that I'm takin'
I ain't never gonna shut you out
I feverously jerked the handles and opened the door to view wooden floor boards covered with a red carpet. Along the sides of the carpet, were a few set of bouquets of lilacs, daisies, and white lilies. The more I opened the doors, the more I obtained view of the dining room, accented by a large chandelier. Windows surrounded us, making the room extremely bright, and behind the two figures up at front was an old grand piano.
The two figures being Sherry, dressed in a more formal, white cloaked outfit, and a dark mysterious man. He was clothed in a fitted black outfit with a lily in the front pocket of his jacket. His dishwater blonde locks were slicked back and his alien hues seemed to widen at the sight of me; it was Albert Wesker.
After swallowing hard I slowly moved down the self proclaimed isle to the man who was shaking in my vision; I thought I'd lose consciousness. When our eyes met, they didn't part, and I continued to press on against the fabric of my gown until I was squared to him. He reached for my hands and I gave them to him to hold between us. Sherry moved just behind us and waved a sheet of paper before me.
"This is the marriage license. As you can see, Wesker has already signed…" She offered me a pen and I used her back as a platform to sign, stealing a look from Wesker as I did.
"Great," She stuffed it away. "Now where were we? Ah yes…" She continued on:
"Dearly beloved…"
I blushed at Wesker and even more so when a half smile cracked his expressionless face.
"Through marriage, Albert Wesker and Claire Redfield make a commitment together to face their disappointments – embrace their dreams – realize their hopes – and accept each other's failures…"
Wesker's thumb stroked one of my hands and he even seemed a bit awkward at the whole romantic situation. Though, he wanted it- he must have. He began to twiddle my ring around my finger.
"Do you Claire Redfield, take Albert Wesker…" I prepped myself as Sherry's voice called to me. "Will you love him, comfort him…"
"I will."
"And do you Albert Wesker, take Claire Redfield…" I slid the ring I had Sherry pick up onto his finger, one I had obtained with my own money. He was surprised, but grateful nonetheless.
"I will."
"You may kiss the bride," Sherry announced.
Wesker bent down and breathed into me, the cushions on his face caressing my own silk lips. Slowly and steadily, they moved against mine almost hungrily, but still with respect for the situation. Before I wanted him to, he pulled his face away from mine and I finally realized his hands had been holding my shoulders.
"Look at the inside of your ring," He commanded in a whisper down to me.
I stared at him curiously and then double took downwards at my hand that he had within his. Gingerly, I pulled off of the ring from my finger and twirled it delicately in my fingers. On the inside, was engraved 'dear heart'.
"Hmph," I made a bright laughing noise. "You haven't called me that for a long time…" I remembered.
"I figured it brought back bad memories," He admitted and I found his eyes again.
"Not anymore…" I smirked.
Hit me like a ray of sun
Burning through my darkest night
You're the only one that I want
Think I'm addicted to your light
I swore I'd never fall again
But this don't even feel like falling
Gravity can't forget
To pull me back to the ground again
Feels like I've been awakened
Every rule I had you breakin'
The risk that I'm takin'
I'm never gonna shut you out
"Listen, I have to depart again for a little while, so I can't stay for long," He said without guilt, but I could feel it in my core that he was reluctant.
"B-but our honeymoon…" I stuttered and he held my chin to coax me, looking me dead in the eye.
"When I get back, dear heart."
He planted a final kiss on my lips and began to back out while grabbing a pair of shades from his pockets.
"You look beautiful… I will make it up to you," He turned as if it was nothing.
"Sherry…" I faced her with concern, clearly hurt by his actions, but then I hoisted up my gown with determination and ran after him.
I nearly tripped, but I was able to burst through the white, wooden doors and run to the front door that had recently been gone through. I flew threw it, my train dragging in the soot as I bolted through the bushes next to the poorly beaten pathway.
"Wesker!" I cried out, seeing his figure a few feet away. He stopped and peered over his shoulder.
Rain began to fall despite the sun still being out; it was warm and falling in large drops just like in the rainforest.
"My lady…" He made turned completely to me as I came to a stop before him. My hair dampened almost immediately by the free falling rain.
"You're not leaving… not this time," I nearly sobbed out as I blinked against the rain, my hands pushing back my dampened hair as I prepared to pounce.
"I –"Wesker began, but he didn't have time to finish.
I closed the distance between us, kissing him violently with my hands on his stubbled cheeks. I moved my lips against his face very sloppily, the sandpaper sensation driving the passion. He coiled his arms around me and hoisted me up to which I responded with my legs trapping his waist. Our lips glued together, he shoved back my gown from my legs and grasped my outer thighs just below my hips.
His tongue penetrated my mouth, exploring vigorously as the rain soaked the both of us and created little rainbows in the canopy of trees above. He began to carry me through the bushes and off the beaten path to a set of old trees. There, he slammed by back into the bark of the most sturdy one and began undoing his pants with lightening speed.
My head moved back into the rough bark which snagged and yanked on my wet strands. The gaping of my mouth was an exit for my eager pants and breathy moans towards his curving fingers into the fabric of my panties at my hips— a snap indicated their demise. His hips thrusted forward, touching the built of his large erection into my moistened lips and thighs. I let out a cry as blood rushed to my head and disoriented me for just a moment.
He bent into me while drawing my hips towards him so that my shoulder blades were all that was keeping me up against the tree. His hands moved from cupping my ass up to the ties of my corset top, undoing it quickly to draw down my top and free my plump breasts. Rain splattered onto my fair skin, touching and erecting my nipples, which were soon engulfed by the kneading rough hands of Wesker.
"Please…" I whispered, but I was unsure if the words were truly mine.
"Hmph."
His tongue touched the space between my breasts as he buried his face in between. As his tongue slithered up to my neck, one of his hands moved to my lower back and the other grasped his shaft to direct his bulbous head to my opening. Up and down my lips he teased until I whined and scraped my scalp into the bark behind.
"This is what you get for the delay," He grumbled in his knife-through-butter tone.
"I will make it worthwhile…" I promised him.
"I'm sure you will."
With that, he jerked his hips upwards, missing my entrance completely and running his shaft between my soaked lips and against my clit. I shuddered violently and bit my inner lip to draw blood. His hand at my lower back tugged me closer as his lips trickled against mine.
Without warning, he removed me from up against the tree and hoisted me higher in his arms by my ass. My hands on his shoulders, I stared down at him with loving eyes. An evil smirk curled across his face, taunting me from below as he let me slide down his body and onto his throbbing manhood. I cooed with ecstasy as his head finally penetrated me, moving against my tight ridges and silken walls. I used my pelvis muscles to grasp him tighter as he pressed deep and he grunted.
In his arms, he began to take me back towards the path and to the house.
"Sherry…" I whispered, my eyes closed to experience the manhood buried within me moving with his steps, turning me like butter.
He ignored my concerns, kicking open the front doors and splitting the wood, but not completely breaking them; this action alone pressing into the nerves at the roof of my vaginal canal. As I panted I wrapped my arms around his neck violently for support as he glided up the stairs.
I bounced once as I landed on the edge of the bed, the move making him pull out to his head, but it wasn't long before he dragged me back to him and nearly off the edge of the bed— the neatly folded covers ruined due to them following my body. After his claiming of me towards the edge, he instantly plunged into me, sending himself to great depths. My mouth opened wide to release a squeak of pleasure as he paused and throbbed within. Then, he removed himself slowly and moaned to my walls unstretching against his head.
"Claire…" He moaned as his body hunched over my frame. "I'm going to get rid of this…"
He grabbed my lowered dress and hoisted it back over my breasts and eventually over my head. Then, unrelentingly, he humped in and out my wet folds. I watched him with an open mouth, which was producing moans, and observed him scanning the make of my body. When his eyes found mine again, half squinting with lust, I reached up and touched his face.
"I love you," I whispered up to him and he turned his head to kiss my wrist.
"And I you, my lady… dear heart…"
I propped myself up on my elbows, taking his lips to mine as he pumped in and out at a faster pace. Our damp bodies slapped against each other, creating rhythm and arousing me more as I thought how wonderful his thick shaft felt. I lifted my hips off the corner of the bed, letting him enter me at a new angle until I felt him tense.
He was ready… and so was I.
I was the first, clenching him in a series of pulsating throbs and moaning at the top of my lungs. He held out for as long as he could to make sure I experienced the utmost pleasure and then released his seed. As I lay panting and heaving, he eased himself out of my hot quicksand and removed himself from his damp clothes.
I gave him my defined leg, playing with him by wiggling my toes on his chest and he began to kiss the inside of my knee. A wide smile curved into my lips as I adored the sight of him touching me.
"I have to go now…" he said down to me. "There is a Beretta in the night stand should anyone give you trouble."
"Come back soon, you know I'll be anxious for you," I'm sure he knew what I said was more literal.
He grabbed some new, dry clothes from the closet that were already seemingly prepared for him and got dressed. He then departed and I waited for the sound of the splintered door below to close. My head came to rest back on the bed and glance up at the ceiling with longing eyes. My womanhood was still restless and aroused. Though, that didn't keep my mind off the loss I felt within my heart. Slowly, but surely, my lids became heavy until they finally closed.
Everywhere I'm looking now
I'm surrounded by your embrace
Baby I can see your halo
You know you're my saving grace
You're everything I need and more
It's written all over your face
Baby I can feel your halo
Pray it won't fade away
I can feel your halo
I can see your halo
-=-=-=-=-=-
A series of voices disturbed my dreams to a point where I awoke with a sense of unease. I could hear them around the house, hushed, but not unheard. I sat up quickly and moved to the closet and browsed the sets of clothing until I came across a pearl white robe. I wrapped it around my body and tied it in place before I sauntered over to the nearest window to see who was here.
The front door suddenly burst open, a mass of loud voices shouting about to the point where my heart dropped.
"Welcome, BSAA Europe Division, it seems you have found us…" Sherry's voice came through the loud speakers planted throughout the house.
"BSAA?" I spoke out loud before hurrying to the door of the bedroom to listen for footsteps.
"It is unfortunate for you because I don't think Mrs. Wesker will be too pleased about your arrival on this base."
"Wesker had a wife?" I heard a British accent from downstairs prior to boots ascending the stairs. I became angry.
I kicked open the night stand where the stashed Beretta was and was pleased to see it skid towards me. As soon as I rushed to it I picked it up and checked for a filled clip. Once I viewed the stacked clip I shoved it back in place and pushed a bullet into the chamber. The intruders were searching rooms on the top floor, which were absolutely futile—I'd find them.
"Looking for someone?" I shouted through the door before I kicked it open and brought myself into sight.
The first BSAA to rush me received the back of my gun to his forehead. He stumbled and a quickly moved in to grab his arm, twist it at the elbow, and whip it painfully around. My knee then implanted itself the arch of his back and sent him tumbling by releasing his arm just in time. By then, the next solider was to me and freeing his gun. I swiftly bent back to allow him through, his rush towards me blind, and then sent him with regards over the balcony.
"Stop!" Someone shouted, a gun pointed in my direction.
I leisurely pivoted my head to glance at the one who ordered me; it was a tanned skin man, perhaps from Spain, and he was taken aback by my attire. I squared my body casually towards him, my eyes glancing at his gun before glowing a vivid red-orange.
"Are you going to shoot me?" His thumb brought back the hitch in response.
"Very well," I raised a brow. "Show me your reflexes."
I darted forward as his index squeezed the trigger and sent a bullet rocketing. My body readied itself and jerked me to the side away from harm to the best of its capabilities. A bit of pain touched my outer arm and I reacted to it by purposely falling to the ground. I slid into the member of BSAA, robbing him of his balance and then quickly standing. I instantly recovered and planted a bare foot into his neck, severing his windpipe and letting him suffocate to death.
Footsteps sounded behind me and I wasted no time to turn and aim my weapon.
"Claire…"
My death glare softened into something more surprised.
"Chris…"
"You are Mrs. Wesker?" I stepped towards my big brother.
"I tried to tell you…"
He stared at me with fierceness and a set of confusion.
"Wha-who-wha—"He tried to speak, but he couldn't find the words. His eyes wandered to his fallen teammates.
"I'm sorry," I blinked away the tears as I heard more BSAA coming from the stairs. I had to escape, but I knew my brother wouldn't let me. So, I sent the base of my palm into his nose and the back of my gun to his temple to render him unconscious.
Chris collapsed without sound, without word, and then I twisted my body to head for the stairs and get Sherry. BSSA had already made it and seen what I had done. Steadily, I approached them as blood from my bullet-grazed arm hit the floor, bursting into flames.
"What the hell are you?" One of them said as I glanced down the barrel of their gun.
I double took behind me to view the flames going out and leaving the humid wood, luckily, charred and not creating more flames.
"I am the new balance," A smirk crawled across my face and I stood still as Sherry made her way like a quiet field mouse behind the group.
With all her might, she shoved her small body into the backs of the group. They began to turn to face her, guns pointed, but they were closer to me by this time. I flung myself at them. Twirling in the middle, fists extended and punching away at the flesh before me, I began to look for Sherry to make our escape.
"Sherry?" I showed my concern in my voice when I didn't see her white self. Though, my search rendered me vulnerable—a needle punctured the skin of my neck.
"ARGH!" I groaned and elbowed off the man who had administered it. I gave one last burst of energy to sweep kick those filling in for the man I had just elbowed back. Afterward, I began to stagger in my steps. My vision was blurred.
"Get our fallen comrades, especially Redfield, and bring them to the base," Someone informed as my body slumped to the floor. "We will question Wesker's wife for the remaining terrorists and come after the other woman tomorrow. Move quickly, gentleman, I don't know how long the sedatives will last."
My cheek pressed into balcony floor as all of my muscles began to relax. It was as though I was melting into the floor and I would become trapped if I didn't get up. Yet, I couldn't, and my mind gave up to the darkness. The darkness that consumed me was not by a bag over my head, but of sleep – a deep sleep where I was unable to defend this island, Sherry, or my own self. Rough hands fell upon me, hardly as pleasurable as Weskers, and realization sunk in.
I had become captured yet again.
((Don't forget to review. I friggin just wrote 12,000 words and 25 pages.))