A/N: Hey!!! Thanks for all of the reviews, they make me feel nice! Ahah! Anyways, here's another chapter! Reminder: This is also combined with He Who Died. If you don't know that by now...well than I don't know. Regardless, read! - Sam
Bonding
*Amanda's POV*
I'm holding onto a tree trunk, dangling off a cliff. Above, Luke is holding out his hand. Below, Jer is waiting with his arms out. I have the choice of grabbing onto Luke's hand and getting up, but in result the tree trunk would crush Jer. I could also just simply let go and let Jer catch me, but what if he doesn't?
Undecided, I just keep hold of the tree trunk. It's getting loose, and I can feel myself slipping, but I'm too stubborn to let go.
It slips again and-
I woke up with a jolt. My head pounded and I looked around. Alejhandra stirred next to me, still fast asleep. Dylan was sitting on a chair across the bed, and he was staring at me curiously. "Are you alright?" he asked.
I took a deep breath to calm down my heart. Stupid, stupid dream. "Yeah, I am." I said, softly. "Where's Jer?"
He smiled. "You just missed him. He and I switched. He's out hunting." Dylan told me. Switching shifts? What, are we not trusted?
Instead of speaking this, I just asked for the Advil to help with my hangover. I got out of bed carefully, so I wouldn't wake up Alejhandra. Then I just walked to get my phone...but Dylan had it. "Why do you have my phone?" I asked, suspiciously.
Dylan just handed it over. "Jer told me to keep a hold of it in case Adam called." he explained. Oh. Hope Luke didn't call. I'd have some explaining to do.
I checked to see who had called, and luckily, it was only Adam. "What did Adam say?" I asked, as I dialed his number.
"Just for me to tell you to call when you wake up. Sounds important."
On the second ring, Adam picked up. "What's the problem?" I asked. No 'Hi, how are you?' for Adam today.
"Luke came by. And I accidentally slipped about where you were staying. I think he's on his way." Adam said, quickly.
I smiled. I can use this to my advantage. "Aww that's so cute for you to worry about me." I told him. "But you don't have to. I'll work it out." I said, making it sound like we're talking about Jer and I.
"That's what I'm afraid of." he said, and I could just picture him frowning. There's nothing to be scared of. I mean, I'm only going to make people believe Luke is my errr lover. It's wrong, I know. But maybe that will let Jer let go and be happy later on in his life, instead of being in constant misery because of me.
I rolled my eyes. "Bye, Adam." I said, before clicking. I rubbed my head, which was just in more pain. All this plotting makes my head hurt even more...
"I need more advil." I stated, looking towards my new babysitter. He sighed and handed me the bottle. "Don't overdose." he warned. And it was a warning. Because if I overdosed, which I wouldn't, Dylan would get in trouble. Then I would have two vampires pissed at me. Not a good idea.
I only took two more. I handed Dylan back the bottle, "I'm going to take a shower, if that's okay with you." I said. Pretty sad that I have to ask about these basic things...
He chuckled. "You taking a shower is on the 'allowed' side of Jer's rules for you, so go for it." he teased. Great, there's probably a whole fucking book if that's the case.
I smiled. "What about building a bomb? Am I allowed to do that?" I asked, as I searched for a pair of clothes that I wanted to wear today.
"Ehh I'd say that's a big no." he reasoned. Yeah, you're probably right.
My smile turned into a smirk. "Well then I guess he doesn't need to know about the whole blowing up a hotel incident from a couple years ago." I concluded.
"Depends. Did that occur before or after you were his girlfriend?" Dylan asked, casually. Why do I feel like this is just the start of these questions?
"Before." I answered, turning to face him. He looked like he was calculating. Oh great.
"Well, then it doesn't matter. Because you technically weren't his at the time." he told me.
"I'm not his now, so why should what I do matter?" I retorted.
He laughed. Yeah, he fucking laughed. Luckily, I had enough self control to not hit him with an object. "Who are you trying to fool? Us or yourself?" he asked. I said nothing, I just went in the bathroom to shower and change.
As I showered, I thought about what Dylan had asked me....And I couldn't come up with an answer. I mean, yes, I'm trying to get other people to believe something that isn't true. It's for the best, isn't it? But...what about me? Am I really sure that this is the right thing to do?
I thought about Jer. I've caused the guy so much pain. I mean, before I came along, he was well...a PMSing dude, but he was still better off. I'm like some crazy rollercoaster ride. I have no idea what I'm doing or what's right. I'm just...acting on impulse. And either way...it's going to hurt him.
Unless I give in.
I shook away the thought. Giving in would hurt him the most. I'm just unstable. And I'm getting worse. If I give in, I won't be able to go back and he'll always be stuck worrying over me and getting involved with all my drama. And there's still the arranged marriage with Luke, and rogue vampires!
I stepped out of the shower and dried myself off, my decision has been made.
Even though Dylan's question caught me off guard for a moment, it's not changing anything. And I won't be caught off guard again. With that confidence, I put on my clothes, brushed my teeth and hair only to walk in on a moment between Dylan and Alejhandra. From the looks of it, they were talking about something important.
So I wouldn't disturb them, I used magic to take my phone off the side table and left the hotel room. I walked around until I found a water fountain. I sat down and took out my cell and dialed Luke's number. He didn't answer, but I left a message telling him where my room was and that friends were staying with us.
Afterwards, I started digging change out of the fountain. Kinda funny, because it's something a hobo would do. But I was doing it for a reason. Every coin I took out, I threw at someone walking by and pretended like it wasn't me. Why did I do this? I don't know, but it was entertaining! After ten minutes of doing this, I stopped and just started using my magic on the water. Not enough so anyone would really notice, but enough to keep me entertained.
"There you are!" Alejhandra said, happily. "Told you we would find her." she said to Dylan.
He smiled. "You were right." he said to her. It wasn't hard to hear Dylan's love for her just in his voice. Awww! He turned to me. "Why did you decide to just leave? You could have at least told me." he scolded. Bad Amanda does this kind of stuff. I'm use to it.
I just smiled. "I didn't want to interrupt. So, I left. I knew that when you finished up what you had to and Alejhandra showered and dressed, you would be able to find me." I reasoned. Seriously, what kind of vampire would he be if he couldn't?
"Excuse approved." he agreed. We all laughed and decided to get something to eat. Well, for Alejhandra and I anyways. Dylan hunted before. Seriously, what would Jer have done if Dylan and Alejhandra weren't here? I forgot about eating. And I don't really care so much. I would be getting in trouble and Jer would be mad if it wasn't for these guys.
We (and by we, I mean Alejhandra and I) were eating when Dylan looked at my arms, confused. I didn't wear a long sleeve shirt. I'm a dumbass. "Jer doesn't aprove of cutting. At all." he stated.
I played with my food. "He also doesn't aprove of suicide." I said, quietly. I could see recognition in his eyes. "It's on the list of things I shouldn't do." I joked, trying to make the situation lighter.
"I bet." he said, bitterly. "You aren't still trying to-" he started, but Alejhandra cut him off.
"Dylan!" she said, sharply. I sighed. Great, I'm causing trouble between a happy couple.
"It's okay, Alejhandra. I know what he was going to ask." I told her, and she relaxed. I turned my attention to Dylan. "No, I'm not still like that. I have two kids to look after. I thought about having a friend of mine remove them for me, but decided against it. They remind me not to go back." I explained. I looked at my food. "Even though I sometimes want to." I whispered, to myself.
It was silent. "You have Jer too." Dylan said, breaking the silence.
I closed my eyes and thought about how to answer. "I use to have Jer. I released my claim on him a long time ago." I said, bitterly. Okay, so it wasn't that long ago. Really, it was only awhile before he came back. But still, that counts as a long time ago in my head.
"You have a lot to explain to me." Alejhandra stated.
I almost smiled. Almost. "You have a lot to explain, also." I reminded her. Josh. Nightmares. Ring a bell?
It was quiet. Again. "Exchange of information?" we suggested at the same time. I really smiled now and Alejhandra did too.
"Sweet!" Dylan exclaimed, in ignorant bliss. As if we're going to tell you.
"Dylan, you don't get to know what we talk about. No matter what." I informed him. In response, he turned to Alejhandra.
She smiled, kindly. "Sweetie, I'm not going to tell you a thing about what Amanda and I talk about. It's a girl thing. We're keeping it a secret between just the two of us." she explained. He pouted, and Alejhandra kissed him. "Trust me." she told him.
My cell phone started ringing, taking my attention off the happy couple. "What?" I answered.
"You have the nicest way of answering your phone." Luke replied. Ahaha I know!
I smiled. "If you don't like the way I answer my phone, then don't call." I teased. Dylan and Alejhandra slowly came out of their own little world and looked at me curiously.
"Well I'm at the room number you left me, but you're not answering." he told me. OHHHHH!!!!
"Oops, sorry. We're eating breakfast. I'll go there and see you in a minute. Stay put." I ordered, hanging up. Dylan's eyes narrowed while Alejhandra looked confused.
"Who was that?"
I got up and smiled innocently. "Don't worry about it." I answered, before walking away. A couple minutes later and Alejhandra and Dylan were next to me. "You guys can go and do something you know. I have plans." I told them.
"What kind of plans?" Alejhandra asked.
"Just one with a...friend of mine." I replied.
"Who do you-" Dylan started, but stopped the minute we got to the door. Why? Because Luke is standing outside the door, with one bag in his hand. What is he planning on staying at the hotel? "Who are you?" Dylan asked Luke, defensively stepping in front of Alejhandra and I. You know, I thought without Jer being here I wouldn't have this problem. But apparently it will never go away, because everyone is Anti-Luke.
I rolled my eyes. "He's the one I have plans with." I informed him.
Luke smiled. "My name is Luke." he introduced himself, and held out his hand for a handshake. However, all he got was a glare. Luke put his hand down. "Let me guess, you're Jer's friend." he guessed. Bingo!
"Hey, you're not as dumb as Jer said!" Dylan exclaimed. Oh great. Jer's talked about Luke. FML!
"Dylan, back off. He's here to see me, not get into some stupid argument with you." I said, defending Luke. Normally, I wouldn't get involved. But Luke is reallyoutnumbered. So outnumbered, that I can't just be neutral.
"Ugh, this is so not part of the plan." Alejhandra muttered under her breath. Plan??
"Amanda, I don't want to cause you trouble. If you want, I can go." Luke offered.
"Go." Dylan ordered. I glared at him, but he ignored me. Oh my god, I can see why he and Jer are considered brothers.
"Luke, stay. I want to hang out." I opposed. "Plus, I still need to give you your Christmas present." I added. Dylan scowled and looked away. Alejhandra looked like she was...calculating. What on Earth is she up to?
Luke was smiling from ear to ear. "Alright. I'll just go get a hotel room, unpack, and meet you in a bit, okay? Oh, and I have your present and Jer's." he told me. My present? I left that at the house...
"The present you gave me is still wrapped in my kitchen. I meant to open it, but Jer's mom was there and that would just be too awkward." I stated.
His smile lessened. "Yeah...Adam threw it at me when I went over looking for you." he admitted. Dylan started laughing, and Alejhandra was just smiling. Yeah, Adam is on Team Jer.
I sighed. "Sorry about him. He's just like that." I said. "Anyways, I'll see you later." I said, nicely. I was going to kiss his cheek (not much) but Alejhandra had grabbed my wrist and was taking me inside the hotel room.
"What is your problem?!" I exclaimed when we were all in.
"Luke." Dylan answered, honestly. -sigh-
I rolled my eyes. "How is he your problem? Actually, don't answer that. I like Luke. He's cute and funny. And to top it off, he's a warlock!" I listed. "Perfect for me." I added. Well...perfect is a stretch. But if I actually had romantic feelings for him, maybe it could be like that...
Alejhandra frowned and walked over to the window. She's plotting....and I believe she's on Team Jer. Dylan rolled his eyes. "The only one perfect for you is Jer." he argued. Bite me!
Now it was my turn to roll my eyes. Before I could answer, there was a knock at the door. I answered, and it was Luke. "That was quick." I stated.
"They have no more hotel rooms. So I'll have to go to find another hotel. It might take a bit. Just letting you know." he told me.
Alejhandra was next to me. She smiled. "How about you stay here?" she offered.
"What?!" we all exclaimed, completely shocked. I mean, I thought Alejhandra was Team Jer. But I guess she's Team Amanda...
"I'm just being nice." she said, softly.
"Alejhandra, let's talk." Dylan said, pulling her back into the room. While they had a little lovers quarrel, I helped Luke in and unpack. By the time we were done, Alejhandra was smiling and Dylan was relaxed. Okay...I'm a bit suspicious. Not gonna lie. Dylan shouldn't be relaxed with Luke around if he was all worked up earlier....Then again, he really loves Alejhandra so maybe he's just backing her up or something.
"Hi! You haven't officially met me, but I'm Alejhandra. Amanda's friend." she greeted, shaking his hand. Dylan murmered for her to wash her hand, and she just hit him. Ahahah that's what he gets for telling her what to do!
"It's nice to meet you." Luke said, politely. He turned to me. "Would you like to open your gift now, or would do you wish to wait for Jer?" he asked me. See, this is what I like about Luke. Let's me do what I damn well please. No rules, no over-protectiveness. Although Jer's pretty hot when he's all worked up and...
Bad thoughts! "We can-" I started, but just as I did Jer burst in the door. He didn't look happy, either.
Jer took one look at Luke and his eyes darkened. He turned to Dylan. "What the fuck is he doing here?" Jer asked him. Ohhh Dylan has to take the heat.
"Ask your girlfriend." Dylan answered, his arms raised. Of course you have to pin this on me! It was clearly Alejhandra's idea...but that's okay. I can take Jer.
Jer looked at me, waiting for an answer. I just stared back. "Why are you looking at me? I'm not your girlfriend. I don't have to answer." I told him. Which was obviously the wrong thing to say, because he got pissed.
In a flash he was right in front of me, his face maybe only a couple centimeters away from my own. "Don't test my patience." he said, dangerously. Oh my damn.
It took some work to control my breathing. "You need to chill out." I stated, before backing away. If I stay there any longer, I might do something stupid. "If you want to know why Luke is here, all you have to do is ask nicely." I scolded.
Jer ran a hand through his beautiful, blond hair. Probably wondering why the hell he deals with me... "Please explain why Puke is here." he said, through gritted teeth. Yay! He's playing on my terms!
"It's Luke." I reminded him.
He rolled his eyes. "Just please tell me." he ordered. Well....he did say please.
"He's staying with us, here in Vegas. Isn't this exciting!" I exclaimed. Luke was smiling and shaking his head, Alejhandra looked like she was thinking and I got glares from Jer and Dylan. Tough crowd, tough crowd. It was quiet and really tense. "Present time! I'll get the ones I have for Luke and Jer out of the car." I said, breaking the silence.
Jer's eyes lightened up a bit. "How do you still have one for me?" he asked. Because I couldn't decide which watch I'm giving you.
"I left it in the car with Luke's on accident." I said, using magic to get them out and bring them in through the window. There weren't any names on them, so I closed my eyes and threw one at Jer and the other at Luke. Easy solution. No need to actually think about who gets what. We'll let God decide.
Jer and Luke glared at each other as they opened up the presents. The room was tense again, and Dylan decided to make popcorn. He's just hilarious like that. Jer turned out to get the gold watch and Luke got the silver one. They were both happy, while I was screaming inside. Jer got the one I like best!?! What kind of sign is that, God?!?! Do you hate me or something.
"Thanks, Amanda." they both said, before glaring at each other once again. So much for them being happy.
"Yeah, you guys are as different as silver and gold. I thought it would fit." I explained.
"Gold is more expensive and worth more." Dylan told everyone. Jer and him did a knuckle touch. Shut up!
"Well, I like silver better." I retorted. Which, wasn't really true. But hey, it's the best I could come up with. "Now where is my present?" I demanded.
Luke snapped his fingers and one good size box appeared and so did my little one. He handed me my present. "You so need to teach me that trick." I stated.
Luke smiled. "Sure thing. I can also teach you how to get rid of a hangover." he told me. Sweet!!!
I smiled and unwrapped the box. All eyes were on me when I opened the box. I gasped. "A diamond bracelet." Not only is it wicked expensive, but it's worth more than most of the stuff in my house. Obviously!
Luke just smiled. "Yeah, I didn't think you had one. And isn't there some saying that diamonds are a girl's best friend?" he replied. Yes!
"Luke, it's beautiful. But I don't think I can accept this. It's too extravagant." I said, giving it back.
He shook his head, and put it on for me. "Amanda, I know you want to keep it. So just do it." he ordered. "Jer doesn't mind, do you Jer?" he asked. Everyone looked at Jer. This isn't right. I'm suppose to be over Jer, so his say shouldn't matter. He was about to reply, but I beat him to it.
"It doesn't matter if he minds or not. I'll keep it. Thank you." I said, giving Luke a big hug. I would have given him a kiss (on the cheek!) but I was already pushing Jer and I didn't feel like testing him. After all, he's still PMS Jer...
Luke was smiling victoriously and for a moment I thought Jer was really going to attack him. "How about you give Jer the present you bought for him?" Alejhandra suggested. Thank you!
Luke smiled and pushed the box over to him using magic. He uses it so freely.....Jer said nothing, he just unwrapped the box and opened it. He reached in the box and pulled out cat shampoo. Yes, that's right. Cat shampoo. I put my hand over my mouth so I wouldn't laugh. "Funny." Jer said, bitterly.
"There's more." Luke said, in a sing song voice. Uh oh!
Jer looked in and pulled out a cat collar and leash. The tag on the collar said 'Amanda's Pet'. I started laughing."I was going to put Amanda's bitch, but you're not a dog. So that wouldn't work out well." Luke said, being smug.
Jer smirked. "Well at least I'm Amanda's something. What are you to her again? Oh that's right, nothing." he retorted. Dylan and Alejhandra were smiling and eating popcorn. Yeah, it's pretty amusing.
"Jer, be nice. He's a good friend. He was there when you weren't." I said, coldly. Jer froze and Luke smiled once again. Yeah, I just pulled a bitch move.
"Okay! Time for Jer to give Luke his present!" Alejhandra exclaimed, trying to bring up everyone's spirits. Jer cheered up a bit, which made me wicked suspicious. Oh god, what did he get Luke?
Jer pulled out a pretty big box from behind the suitcases and carried it over to Luke. Jer dropped it in his arms, which Luke accidentally dropped on the floor. "Oh yeah, it's a bit heavy. Well, for you." he said, smugly.
Luke rolled his eyes and opened it. Once it was unwrapped, it was a big, colorful box with a crank on the side. "A Jack-in-a-box?" Luke snorted. Jer just sat there with that smug look of his (sooo hot) while the rest of us were confused.
"Well, use it." Jer ordered. Luke sighed and started cranking it. You know how in a Jack-in-a-box, a little dude pops at a random time scaring the crap out of you? Yeah, well this one was different. After two full spins, a huge ceramic fist came out and punched Luke right in the face, breaking his jaw.
Dylan and Jer started laughing hysterically as I rushed to Luke's side. "Oh my god, I'm so sorry. I had no idea that was going to happen." I told him. I gently held Luke's head and focused on healing him. Once I finished, I put my hands down, but didn't move away from him.
"Thank you, Amanda. And you don't need to apologize for your ex's actions." he reasoned. I smiled. Let's make him apologize then.
"Jer!" I whined. "That wasn't nice! Apologize!" I ordered.
Jer shook his head, still smiling from the whole thing. "I only apologize if I mean it." he replied. I smiled evilly. Fine, then I'll do something I know you hate.
"Well, I'll just ignore you then." I stated. The silent treatment. Everyone hates it, but especially Jer. I mean, even Jackie would use this on him and it actually worked! If it works for Jackie, it will work even more for me.
"Oh come on, Amanda. Lighten up, it was just a joke. Don't ignore the guy, you know he hates that." Dylan reasoned.
My eyes narrowed. "I'm ignoring you too." I stated. Luke got up and offered his hand. I took it and told everyone, "I'm only talking to Luke and Alejhandra."
Alejhandra smiled. "Don't you think that's a little...dramatic?" she asked. I thought about it, and it probably was.
I shrugged. "I'm impulsive, what can I say?" I responded. She sighed. "Guys, just apologize and she'll talk to you again. It's pretty simple." Alejhandra reasoned. Thank you!
"No." the two brothers said, stubbornly.
She crossed her arms. "Fine." she stated, then she turned to Luke and smiled. "Why don't you go in the bathroom and wash up?" she suggested. There was an evil twinkle in her eye, but I decided to not look into it.
"Thank you. I think I will." Luke said, before heading out to the bathroom.
It was just the four of us again and being only able to talk to Alejhandra (who was having a quiet conversation with Dylan and constantly looking at the bathroom), I turned on the t.v. Jer sat next to me and tried talking to me multiple times, but I just tuned him out and focused on Spongebob.
'Amanda, you do you happen to know any spells that can help with super glue situations?' Luke sent in my head. My eyebrows burrowed in confusion at the odd question.
"What was that look for?" Jer asked, curiously. What part of 'ignore' is too difficult for this boy to understand?
Instead of answering Jer, I sent Luke a message. 'None. Why do you ask?'
'My ass is super-glued to the toilet.' was his reply.
Now really, who wouldn't laugh hystertically hearing that? I know I did! "It's not funny!" Luke shouted from the bathroom. I just kept laughing until my sides hurt. I looked around the room and noticed something. While Jer and Dylan looked insanely confused, Alejhandra was smiling. Evil girl....I like it.
"What's going on?" Dylan asked. I just stared at Alejhandra, smiling. She's clearly on Team Jer....but this shit is funny as hell! Why not enjoy the show?
Alejhandra smiled innocently and whispered in Dylan's ear. As a result, he started laughing. He went over to the door and knocked. "Are you okay? I heard you're in a sticky situation." he laughed. I stifled a giggle.
"Amanda! Who did you tell?" Luke shouted.
"I didn't tell anyone you somehow got your butt stuck on the toilet!" I shouted back. Jer, hearing this for the first time, started laughing hysterically.
'Who did it Amanda? Was it Jer?' he asked, in my head.
"No. I don't know who did it." I lied. Alejhandra looked confused.
"You're talking to him in your head, aren't you?" Jer accused, jealousy clear in his voice. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. Because rolling my eyes would mean I'm listening.
"You can talk to people in your head?" Alejhandra asked, shocked.
I smiled. "Kinda. I just send thoughts to people. Vampires and witches can do it. It's really convenient." I told her.
She pouted. "So everyone here can do this except me?" she verified. I just patted her back because she knew the answer, and need comfort being the only human. I remember how that felt....well, when I thought I was just a human....
"We won't, if it makes you feel better." Dylan suggested. Or we'll do it without being overly obvious. Alejhandra brightened up.
We all sat watched t.v. During this time, Jer kept trying to get me to talk to him (unsuccessfully), Alejhandra was all curled up with Dylan, and an hour passed. Finally, Luke came out of the bathroom. With a catch though....
"You're bald!" I exclaimed, putting my hand over my mouth so I wouldn't laugh. Again. However, everyone else lacked this self control.
"Yeah, laugh it up." Luke said, wicked pissed. "Who the fuck did this?" he shouted, pointing at his head. Poor guy...still not ratting out my friend.
"I wish I had thought of the idea." Jer said, honestly. Way to be a dick! I would have hit him, but I'm suppose to be ignoring him.
I sighed, feeling bad for Luke. "It's okay. You don't look that bad." I said, comforting him.
"Are you kidding me? I can see the reflection of my face on his head!" Dylan exclaimed. Not helping!
Luke glared at him. Dylan happily returned it. I sighed again. "You know what, I know a spell that can make your hair grow faster. It will take a couple hours for your hair to grow back to it's original length, but it's better than being bald." I reasoned.
Luke sighed. "Thanks, Amanda." he said, calming down. I took his hand and brought him to the bathroom. Everyone else peeked their head through, so I used magic to shut and lock the door. Nosy people.
After the spell, a little stubble grew on his head. Huh, works pretty fast. I unlocked the door and I went out, and Luke followed. "Take a nap and you'll be back to normal when you wake up." I ordered.
He kissed me then. It really did catch me off guard, but this time I didn't push him away. I went along with it. I know I did a good enough job when I heard a hiss. I ignored it, and continued to kiss Luke. "Okay, Luke, I think it's really time to go to bed." Alejhandra told him.
I sighed. Momentarily forgot she was on Team Jer. "We can continue this later." I said, seductively.
"Or you won't." Jer said, through gritted teeth. Jealous much?
"Speaking of which, where am I sleeping?" he asked.
"Sleep in my bed." I said, as Jer said, "Outside." We glared at each other.
"How about the couch?" Alejhandra offered. I'm guessing Luke did that, because he was soon snoring.
Jer and I were still glaring at each other, when Dylan and Alejhandra decided to leave us. "Why? Why are you doing this shit?" Jer asked, his pain so evident it broke my heart.
"We're done Jer. I can date whoever I want. I can kiss any guy I want." I reminded him. So much for ignoring him...Jer grabbed my wrist and pulled me to him. He leaned down to kiss me, but I whispered, "Please stop."
He hesitated. "Why?"
It nearly killed me, but I had to say it, "Because Luke is the guy I want." Jer let go immediately. I'm horrible...
He sat down on one of the beds and just sat there, with his head in his hands. My heart ached and I wanted nothing more than to wrap my arms around him and apologize a million times. Instead, I went in the bathroom and cleaned it up a bit. As in, I got rid of Luke's shampoo and wiped down the toilet seat. I washed my hands and came out...to find Luke still asleep on the couch and Jer gone.
"He left with Dylan in a hurry." Alejhandra answered, taking out oil, a lot of maple syrup, two buckets, and a bag of water balloons. Great...
"I didn't ask." I replied, taking the bag of water balloons. "Want me to fill these up?" I offered.
Alejhandra smiled and nodded. "You aren't going to ask what they're for?" she questioned.
Normally, I would have smiled. But I still felt like shit for what happened with Jer. I sighed. "I don't really care. Just video tape whatever you're doing so I'll have it for when I do." I replied before going off into the bathroom.
Awhile later, Alejhandra came in and silently helped me with the water balloons. A couple minutes later, she broke the silence, "Want to do the exchange of information? I was going to wait until later in the week or something, but I think now is a pretty good time. You go first." First is the worst...so I probably should go.
I sighed. "I'll have to tell you my past for you to understand what's going on now." I told her.
She nodded her head. "Well....we have plenty of time. After seeing the look on Jer's face....well, I know that for a fact." she said, softly. I know she didn't mean to hurt me, but it still stung. I'm not even with him and I'm still managing to hurt him! I have a serious problem!
It was quiet for a moment before I started, "My parents died on my third birthday. They were murdered and I woke up to thier screams." Just by saying this, I could hear it all over again. Like I was still...there.
"That's awful." Alejhandra stated.
I laughed without humor. "So was being tossed around different foster homes all my life. Which is why, every three years, I use to try and kill myself. I tried everything I could. Hanging, jumping of a cliff, walking into the middle of oncoming traffic, starving myself and most recently..." I trailed, then I showed my wrists.
"Go on." she whispered.
"The one where I cut my wrists I came the most close. Probably because I felt I had more reasons to. For instance, the man who murdered my parents and then the only foster parents who decided to keep me...had marked me as his wife. I was on the run from him, found out I was a witch and to top it all off, I was in love with someone I didn't think could ever love me back." I explained.
"Jer? How could you not know he loves you?!" she exclaimed.
I smiled weakly. "I got him angry a lot. I thought he hated me." I said softly.
"He could never hate you." Alejhandra argued.
"Even if he should." I muttered. "Anyways, Jer and his cousin saved me from actually committing suicide. And to sum it up quickly, I found out I had a brother, the man who killed those I cared about, Vance, fell in love with me, I found out Jer loved me, Vance made me kill him so I could be with Jer, I was with Jer, killed some really old, evil vampire who was trying to kill me, I found out I was pregnant and...."I trailed. "...Jer left." I finished, almost choking on the words.
Alejhandra's eyes widened. "He left you when you were pregnant?"
"I kinda made him leave. To help out his cousin. I was going to have the twins in six months time from that day....and he warned me that it might take longer than that, but I made him go and figured it couldn't take much longer." I explained. "But I was wrong." I added.
"How long was he gone?" she asked.
"Three years...almost four. He left...also on my birthday." I said, tying up the last water balloon.
"Your birthdays suck." she stated. I laughed and she hugged me. "Jer came back, though." she reminded me, after we were done hugging.
I sighed. This is where it gets complicated... "I gave up. I got so tired of wishing for him to come back, that I just gave up all hope. And then he comes knocking on my door like nothing ever happened. He didn't even call! Or write!" I ranted, getting worked up. Then I remembered why and calmed down. "He had a good reason not to. He was out, helping people. It's what he does best. It's who he is." I said, softly.
"That doesn't mean...it didn't hurt." Alejhandra said, just as soft.
My eyes started to water. "It doesn't matter anyways. While he was gone, Luke came along. I have an arrange marriage to him." I admitted.
Her jaw dropped. "Does Jer know?" she asked, shock evident in her voice.
I shook my head. "I don't want him to know. It would destroy him even more than I already have." I said, quietly. I'm a horrible person.
"You love Jer." Alejhandra stated. I nodded my head. "You're just using Luke. If you use Luke, like your little make-out session in the main room, you believe you can make Jer let go and you won't hurt him anymore." she guessed. Proof how horrible I am. Again, I just nodded my head. "Well stop!" she exclaimed.
I raised an eyebrow. "What exactly do you mean?" I asked.
"Stop wasting your time pushing Jer away, when you could just be loving him and getting out of that stupid arranged marriage!" she shrieked.
"I can't!" I shouted at her.
"Why not?!" she yelled.
"Because..." I trailed. "....I'm scared." I added softly. And it's the truth. The reason why I couldn't let Jer in, was fear. I was so scared if I trusted him...that he'd go away again. Only next time, he wouldn't go back. I'm crazy and impulsive...why would he?
"So what are you doing? Trying to beat him to the punch or something?" she asked, softly.
"I'm doing whatever I can....to make him let go." I admitted. So I can too.
Alejhandra shook her head. "That's not happening. Not on my watch." she said, fiercly.
"You can't tell them anything. Especially not him." I reminded her.
She held her head up high. "I don't need to. I have my own agenda." she said, with confidence. Great, now I'm scared of what my best friend is plotting.
I shook my head. "Enough about me. What about you?" I asked.
That made Alejhandra go quiet. I waited for her. "I had...well, the perfect life. Even when I was little. Well...until my father died when I was eight. I was blamed by everyone except my mom and my Aunt Becca..." she started. Oh that fucking sucks!
"Why the hell did they blame you?!" I exclaimed.
"Becuase I, I was the only one in the car that could have saved him. They felt like I was distracting him. They wanted un real things to happen like me jumping in front of him. They think I could have rescued him, and I started believing them..."
"You were only eight." I reminded her.
"I know. Anyways, I got older and met Josh. I fell madly in love with him. We went everywhere together and he meant so much to me. But...he got in a car accident and died." she said, and I could hear her pain. Almost feel it, it was that intense. She really love this guy. And she lost him. It's left scars on her...more than the ones on her heart.
"So you cut yourself." I stated.
She nodded. "Then I met Dylan. I didn't plan on falling in love with him...but I did. He made my life perfect again, even while I dealt with my Aunt Becca's death." she explained. "Except...I feel like ever since, someone's been watching me. And not in a creepy stalker way, but in a scary murderer way. I've been seeing things and having nightmares." she said, shuddering.
I hugged her. I don't want to pry...but I have to know. "What are the nightmares about?" I asked.
"Everyone who's dead is there. And Josh is...trying to warn me. Well, I think he is." she admitted. From what, though. That is the question.
"Maybe it's a rogue. They're on the rise." I guessed.
I meant to reassure her, but I think I scared her more. "What the hell would one of those want with me?!" she asked, her eyes wide.
I sighed. Wrong thing to bring up. Great going Amanda. "I don't know, Alejhandra. However, I do know you have Dylan. He loves you so much. He'll protect you from whatever it is Josh is warning you about." I said, patting her back gently.
It was silent. "People still care about you after they die, right?" Alejhandra asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Of course." I replied. "But...I think they care about you enough to let you go so you can move on and live your life. So you can be happy." I concluded. Which is why I've hesitated on bringing my parents back. I mean...they let go, right? I want them back in my life. I want to see them again and see how well Adam and I are. That we've met and are living together and have our own families. But I don't want to bring them back if they don't want to. Only it's impossible to find that out...
Alejhandra nodded her head. There's something I have to know.... "Alejhandra...if you could bring back Josh...would you?" I asked her.
She was in thought for awhile. When she didn't answer, I talked again, "I know I can't completely comprehend how you feel, but I do know that you always remember your first love. That's how the saying goes. But there's also another saying, that I strongly believe in." I told her.
"What's that?" she asked.
"Everything happens for a reason." I stated. And it's true. There's a reason she's lost so much. It's made her stronger and brought her and Dylan together. And her being with Dylan, lead her to being my best friend. Where that takes us, who knows. But it's all happening for a reason...
She nodded her head and smiled slightly. "You're right."
We both hugged, officially ending this exchange. Even though it hurt bringing up the past...in a way it felt good. To finally confide in someone and share all your fears up to the present day....and know you're not alone.
"Alright, let's set up this prank!" I exclaimed.
"You do know it's on Luke, right? And that by helping me, you are aiding in my plan?" she questioned. Ehh just details.
I shrugged. "I never said I made smart choices." My impulsive decisions really show that. She just laughed and I helped her fill the buckets with maple syrup and put them where they belong. We then put the oil all over the floor near the couch Luke was sleeping on.
His hair was long enough, so I used a spell to put his hair back to normal. "You should have kept the spell the way it was. He could have hair longer than both of ours together. That would be hilarious." Alejhandra suggested.
I giggled. "Sorry, I'll be needing him later. I'd prefer him not to be hairy." I reminded her.
Alejhandra chose to ignore my comment, clearly putting on her Team Jer shirt. I see how it is. We staked out in the bathroom, water balloons at hand, just waiting for him to wake up. Any minute now....
Luke stirred. He sat up and started yawning...which is when we started pelting him with water balloons. Thirty-five water balloons later, Alejhandra and I were out of ammunition and laughing hysterically on the bathroom floor. Luke's face was just priceless!
But you know what makes it even better? When he tried to get up and find out who it was, he slipped on the oil and landed on a string that triggered the syrup buckets spilling allover him. Alejhandra and I laughed so hard, I don't know about her, but I almost pissed my pants.
Moments later, Jer and Dylan walked in. They took one look at the big mess and started laughing. Jer's melodic laugh made me feel good. However, I straightened up. After all, I am suppose to be defending Luke.
"Who's responsible for this?" Luke asked, exasperated.
"The same person who did the first couple of pranks: Alejhandra." I answered. Dylan smiled, clearly liking Alejhandra's evil side.
"Hey! I may have come up with this idea, but you helped me carry it out. You get partial credit." Alejhandra reasoned. Uh they aren't suppose to know that!
"Nope, it's all yours. I'm not even laughing." I replied, but when I saw Luke, it took all my self control not to burst out into laughter again.
"Anymore." she muttered.
Luke growled. "I'm not cleaning this shit up." he stated. Alejhandra and I left the bathroom so he could take a shower.
"You didn't do anything to his shampoo this time, did you?" I asked her, as Dylan called room service.
"Nah, I don't do the same thing on the same person twice. Well, not in the same day." she told me. Ahaha okay.
"Okay so what are we doing next? Cutting holes in most of his clothes?" I asked.
She smiled wide. "Sure. But let's leave a couple pairs of clothes untouched. He was to wear something." she shuddered.
I rolled my eyes. He could buy new clothes...but I see your point. As we started cutting through some of his clothes, Dylan started helping. Jer just sat back, quietly, and stared. Is he still hurting? Or is he mad at me? He should be. He should be so mad he'll never talk to me again and then he'll move on and...
"So, if you care so much about Luke, why are you cutting up his shit?" Jer asked, breaking the silence. Good question.
I smiled. "It's funny. And it's just a joke. He can take it. Hedoesn't get all PMSy over these kind of pranks." I said, turning my attention to cutting Luke's clothes. And really, Luke will get mad. I know he will. But he won't get mad at me. Jer would...he's get all pissy and sexy...
"Which time are you reffering to? The time you locked me out of my house and whenever I tried to get in, I got zapped? Or the time you blew up all the toilets in the house, except the one you were using?" Jer asked, just naming a few of my little pranks.
"Doesn't matter, I got you mad all the time. My favorite was annoying Jackie, making her go complain to you and then you storming in so I could piss you off even more. But you couldn't do anything, because if you did Jackie would get more annoying! You got so pissed!" I laughed. Ahhh those were some good times. Things weren't as complicated.
Alejhandra asked Dylan, "Who's Jackie?"
"Jer's sister." Dylan answered.
"Hey, I was nice until you got me mad." Jer argued, referring to what I had said.
"Yeah but you got mad so easily. Which is why I called you PMS Jer." I stated. Everyone started laughing.
"PMS Jer? Can't believe I didn't come up with that one!" Dylan chuckled. Jer put his head in hands muttering unintelligibly.
We finished destroying Luke's stuff, and decided to head out. Without him. "I should leave him a note telling him where we're headed..." I started.
"Already taken care of." Alejhandra stated, pushing me through the door. Pushy girl!
We got to the parking lot, and Jer decided that he was driving. "It's my car." I whined, as I got in the back seat. Stupid boy.
"You don't know where we're headed." Jer reasoned. I slumped in my seat, defeated.
"It's alright. I don't know where we're going either." Alejhandra said, patting by shoulder to comfort me.
Realization hit me. "If you don't know where we're going...what did you tell Luke?" I asked.
Dylan turned around and smiled at Alejhandra. "So that's why you told the secretary that she had a date with him at eight and to meet at the check in desk." he said, sounding proud of her. Oh she's good.
I bit my lip and looked out the window. No need to let her know I'm proud too. The rest of the ride was silent, except for the occasionally asking of 'Are we there yet?' that Alejhandra supplied.
"Are we there yet?" Alejhandra asked, for the tenth time.
Dylan chuckled. "As a matter of fact, we are."
Dylan helped Alejhandra out of the car like a gentleman and Jer offered to help me out, but I declined. "Where are we?" I asked, surveying the area. It was now dark out and kinda creepy. I have a weird feeling about this place...
"This is an abandoned cabin Dylan and I use to hang out at whenever our mothers were staying in Vegas and decided to take us with them." Jer explained.
"We would sneak out here to drink, without our parents finding out." Dylan added. Why hide it? I never did with my foster parents...then again, I also got transferred to a new place.
"Is there any alcohol here now?" I asked.
"There should be."
"Good, what are we waiting for?" I said, walking ahead. Alejhandra was by my side, but she looked...nervous? "What's wrong?" I whispered.
"I have that feeling..." she trailed, her voice barely above a whisper. Maybe it will make her feel better if Dylan and Jer check out around here.
"Hey, can you guys look around the area? I'm feeling creeped out." I told them, not mentioning that Alejhandra feels like someone wants to murder her right now.
The boys nodded. "We'll be back." they said, simultaneously. I opened the door, and let Alejhandra go first. I checked behind us, just to make sure nothing was there. Coast is clear...
A moment later, there were voices outside the door that didn't belong to Jer and Dylan. Alejhandra froze and I used magic to get a huge chunk of wood that was conveniently stacked near a fireplace. I silently handed one over to Alejhandra and got one for myself. "Use it if you have to." I told her. She nodded her head, completely focused on the door.
I held my piece of wood in one hand and lifted the other. Using magic, I swung open the door. Standing in the doorway, were two extremely muscular guys. Both were brunettes, only one had his hair longer and it was lighter. The other had short, dark brown hair. The one with dark hair had blue eyes and the one with light hair had brown eyes. They smiled.
"Magic? That's hot." the one with dark hair commented. "My name is Ian." he added.
The other one was checking out Alejhandra. "My name is Dave." he told her. "What's your name, baby?" he asked her.
I noticed her grip tighten around the wood. Uh oh. "Alejhandra." she answered.
Dave took a step forward, but I used wind to push him back. He looked at me with irritation. "What are you two doing out here?" I asked.
"We smelt some friends and came to look for them. However, we ended up seeing you pretty ladies instead." Ian answered. He looked me over and smiled. "So you're a witch, huh? We're vampires." he told me. Like I asked.
"My name is Amanda. Yes, I'm a witch." I answered, growing irritated. Wait, smelt friends? "Who are your-" I started, before being rudely interrupted.
"I think I've heard of you." Ian stated. Oh really?
"Yeah, I heard your name too, Alejhandra. It was right in the dictionary, next to gorgeous." Dave said, taking a step towards Alejhandra.
"I'm not interested." she said, simply, making Dave stop in his tracks. He looked confused. What has he never had a girl reject him?
"No, Dave, I really heard of Amanda before. You were in that fight against the brothers, right?" he asked. I nodded my head and he smiled. "Ass-kicking, beautiful witch. Lucky night."
I smirked. "For you." And me. Jer will be back any minute now and since Alejhandra got rid of my previous person, I'm using you. Yes, I'm that much of a horrible person.
I put down my piece of wood and Alejhandra kept hers. The guys entered and shut the door. "So, who were your friends?" I asked.
They both laughed. Okay? "They aren't exactly our friends. Just some losers we knew when we were little. Thought we could, rough 'em up again, like the good old days." Dave explained, still trying to impress Alejhandra. Her eyes narrowed.
I raised an eyebrow. "So you were the tough, bad boys when you were in school?" I verified. Basically the bullies.
"You know it, babe." he said, seductively. Only, it wasn't seductive at all because I really wasn't interested. But I pretended to be anyways...
Ian was about to kiss me, but Dylan and Jer came in just in time. "Oh hey, those are them. The kids we use to beat up." Ian said.
I got away from Ian so fast, it wasn't even funny. It's one thing to use someone who's just a jerk. But a jerk who beat up the man I love? I don't think so.
Dylan was by Alejhandra's side and Jer was by mine within seconds. Dylan draped his arm over Alejhandra's shoulder. "So, Alejhandra, you met Dave." he stated. "Dave, Alejhandra is my girlfriend." he said, happily.
I felt Jer's arm wrap around my waist. He pulled me to him and I didn't even bother fighting. This wasn't just about us, this was him facing his past. "Amanda, is my girlfriend and the mother of my two children." Way to put it out there.
Ian shook his head. "No way."
"Yeah, why would they want you guys?" Dave added.
That pissed me off. And I wasn't alone. "Why wouldn't we want them?!" we exclaimed.
"Dylan is brilliant! He's sweet, protective, and downright sexy!" Alejhandra shouted.
"Yeah! And Jer's intelligent and while he's a gentleman he is amazing in bed." I stated. Okay, the last part soo slipped. "The twins we have are living proof." I added.
Ian and Dave were quiet. "But we're-" Dave started.
"Like I said, not interested." Alejhandra stated.
"What are you two losers going to do? Let these girls do all the fighting for you?" Ian asked. Guess he knows nothing will ever happen, so why not make a fool out of himself?
Dylan and Jer shared a look and let Alejhandra and I go. Then they punched Ian and Dave in the face, and the fight began. Being vampires, they decided to leave us girls who don't have insanely good eyesight with a blurred vision as they fought. Regardless, we cheered on Jer and Dylan. Although not seeing made it a bit difficult...
Finally, it all stopped. Ian and Dave were on the floor with bruises all over their face and Jer and Dylan stood over them, looking barely touched. Impressive.
"You guys got stronger...over the years..." Ian commented, spitting blood on the floor.
"And apparently good enough for hot babes." Dave said, getting up. He helped Ian up and they made their way to the door. "Uhh sorry for the trouble."
Alejhandra ran up to them. "Tell your friends!" she said, before slamming the door on their faces. She then ran up to Dylan and kissed him.
Jer was staring at me and I stared back. "So I'm amazing in bed?" he asked, smirking. I turned away to hide my blush. I had a feeling I would regret that...
It was silent. "I need a drink." I stated, heading off to the kitchen.
And that's what I did. I drank all my problems away, all the stress away.
Which is the most stupid thing you can ever do... in Vegas.
A/N: I'm leaving you there!!! How was it??? Please tell me in a review!!!! I don't promise to update really soon, but I do promise to update!
On the other hand: There are other stories to read. Like, the new stories I'm writing with Hira. Forbidden and Behind Closed Doors. There are two POV for each story, Hira is writing one and I am writing one for each. Please check 'em out!!!! I'm also reading this wicked addicting story, Twisted. The author is amazing and updates a lot (God bless her soul!) so check that out too.
Until next time.... - Sam
