AN: Sorry for the delay kittens. Summer is crazy busy, and I wanted to take some time to get back to these two characters because I was starting to veer off course. So hope you dont mind the time out. Things are back on track now for the most part. You can be the judge. And dont worry E wouldnt kill anyone unless he had a really really good reason too. :D So keep that in the back of your mind. ) Anyhow, hope you enjoy this one. The title is inspired by my new favorite Brandon Flowers song. I encourage you to check it out! Thanks again to all the reviews and feedback and sticking with me. I really appreciate it. You guys rock. xo
Chapter 25-Crossfire
SPOV
I didn't know why but when I left that gas station, I felt as if a huge weight had been lifted off my chest. I had faced Bill again, and stood my ground. I didn't turn into some bumbling raving mad fool like I thought I would. I didn't lash out either. I had maintained a level head. I felt like I could do anything if I put my mind to it.
I pulled up in my driveway and my phone fell out of my pocket as I unbuckled my seat belt. I lifted the red phone in my hand and my thoughts turned to Eric and how he must be still slaving away at work. I only wished I was in Shreveport right now because I suddenly had the urge to see him, if only to ride out this feeling of accomplishment with him I smiled to myself and opened the door.
I got out of my car and noticed all the lights were off except for the porch light. I knew my Gran had to be asleep but she always left the porch light on for me when I got home late.
I took a deep breath and walked toward the front door inhaling the sweet balmy Louisiana night air and then sat down on the porch steps. It was so nice outside I leaned back against the wooden railing and took a deep breath, savoring my earlier moment. I shut my eyes for a few minutes enjoying the peace and then decided it was time to call Eric because he hadn't yet called me.
I looked down at my phone and dialed Eric's number. I didn't care if he was still at work or swamped under a pile of paperwork, if I could just hear his voice I knew Id rest better.
I put the phone up to my ear and let it ring, every chime building up my anticipation…until finally on the last ring I heard something clicking followed by his voice…
Clip…clip…"Soo…kie? …clip"
His voice sounded far away and I could barely hear him through the rustling and blasting music in the background and I spoke up a little louder to let him know we had a bad connection…
"Yes, Eric it's me, I can barely hear you, are you in the bar?"
"No, I'm not at the bar."
Suddenly I heard the music stop and I wondered what was going on, Eric sounded funny and I asked him concerned because he wasn't at work…
"Is everything okay?"
"No." He answered flatly and I began to grow worried…
"Eric what's wrong? Where are you?"
I could hear my heart beat echo through my ears with each deafening moment of silence and finally he replied with a sigh…
"I was in an accident."
"Oh my God, Eric! Where are you?"
I got up taking my keys back out in order to unlock my car door, so I could meet him, my heart now racing anxious to see him.
"Old Parish Road." He finally replied and I stopped my brows creased in confusion.
"You're in Bon Temps?" I asked him in question wondering why he was on the road leading to Bills house and then I heard a long pause…
"Eric?" I asked again wanting him to answer me and finally he did reluctantly…
"Yes, I'm just south of the lake."
I thought about asking him what the hell he was doing here in Bon Temps without even contacting me, or why he was on the road to Bills house instead of mine, but I didn't want to think about that now, I just wanted to make sure he was all right and I proclaimed.
"I'm on my way."
I clicked off my phone and rushed to my car. I wanted to get to the bottom of this, but I couldn't concentrate if I was worrying myself to death so I stuck my key in the ignition, revved up my old Gremlin and headed back out into the night once more.
xxxxxx
EPOV
I collapsed against a tree in exhaustion when Sookie hung up on her end. I was fine for the most part, just a few scratches, my knee gashed, but I would survive.
I looked back at my car stuck in the ditch below and I felt defeated. I crouched to my knees, now tired and very sore, and held my head in my hands.
It was still all a blur, I was so angry I could barely see straight, my foot pressed the gas all the way to the floor, I saw his blazing red tail lights like the burning embers of hell and the next thing I remember, I was flying through the air my car attempting some Dukes of Hazzard like stunt.
I was chasing after Bill, I remember that now. As I thought of him my blood started to heat once more and then fucking Cujo came jumping out at me.
I saw headlights in the distance knowing it was Sookie before I even spotted her car and I pried myself up.
She slowed down and pulled over to the side of the road. I felt reluctant to look at her, sneaking a peek at her feet as she got out of her car and shut the door behind her but then I couldn't look any more, and that's when I heard her pace quicken under the gravel and then I dared to meet her gaze. The intensity in her eyes stunned me and as she threw her arms around me in gratitude I gasped in surprise and relief as my heart melted right there on the spot, all my anger fading away when I had her in my arms and I held onto her more securely…
"You scared me to death." She confessed.
"Are you okay?"
She pulled back and looked from me to the car back to me with concern and I just stared into her eyes. She looked like an angel, her blonde crown illuminated by the headlights behind her, I could barely even remember why I was standing here with scratches all over my body let alone my name, and she asked me again…
"Eric? Are you okay? You're not hurt are you?"
I blinked her voice bringing me back to reality and I shook my head…
"No…I think Ill have to get a tow truck to pull the Vette out of the ditch though."
She looked back at the car and then her eyes flicked with mine and she brought her hand up to the side of my face, soothing away all my tension she asked me softly…
"What happened?"
I stared at her hard knowing I couldn't lie to her and I explained…
"A fucking wolf jumped over my car and I swerved and before I knew it, I was tipped over in a ditch."
"Oh sweet Jesus." She exclaimed...
"You could have been killed." She shook her head and then glanced towards the woods behind me, tensing up she asked…
"Do you think it's still out here?"
I shook my head and replied tiredly…
"No, the damn thing practically flew over my roof, when I got out of the car I saw it standing there watching me and then it took off like a bat out of hell…It knows they are looking for him."
"They?"
I blinked rubbed my eyes turned back to face the empty road and explained…
"The State Patrol…They had part of the highway closed in order to conduct the wolf hunt."
She met my gaze earnestly, pausing for a moment and then she turned to face me, took my hand and then she asked me the inevitable…
"But why are you on the road to Bill Compton's house?"
My heart started to pound in my head and my palms started to sweat. I didn't want to lie to her, I couldn't lie to her, so I began with an exhale…
"I was on my way to see you when…"
But before I could continue a wolf howled off in the distance.
Sookie grabbed my hand frightened and she proclaimed…
"Let's get out of here, you can tell me when we get back to the house."
I looked behind me for the lone wolf, but couldn't see anything. I didn't feel we were in any danger, but Sookie tugged on my arm pulling me back to her car…
"C'mon."
xxxxxx
SPOV
The lights were still out except for the porch light and I didn't want to wake or worry Gran so I put my finger up to my mouth before I carefully opened the porch door cautioning Eric in an attempt to avoid making any noise.
Eric followed my lead and we made it inside. I set down my keys on the small table against the wall and then I took Eric's hand.
The truth was, I didn't really care why he was out on Old Parish Road tonight, he was safe, he was here, I had a long night we could talk in the morning. Right now I was just relieved he was okay.
We ascended the stairs quietly in the dark and I breathed a sigh of relief when we got to the top. Eric made a creak on the wood behind me and I cringed stopping for a moment frozen in silence to watch the bottom of my Gran's door for light, but it never came.
I tugged Eric quickly to my bedroom and closed the door behind us, breathing a sigh of relief when I realized we had made it undetected. Sneaking around like two teenagers wasn't really what I had in mind for the night but I knew I just wanted to find a safe place to stay, and it was pretty obvious by now that we wouldn't be able to keep our hands off each other for much longer. This night had just been too crazy.
I turned to face him and before I could utter another word he put his hands on either side of my face pulling me to him for a passionate kiss.
I felt my knees wobble, pulling back before I lost my balance I looked at him in the darkness, the moonlight illuminating his perfect blue eyes and I could see that his desire matched mine.
"I missed you so much."
I confessed in a whisper. He smiled as if he was relieved and then he kissed me again.
The next time we came up for air, I pulled my shirt up over my head as he pulled his shirt off. My pulse was racing with anticipation as he quickly unzipped my shorts and then I reached over to unbutton his denims.
His skin was burning and I just wanted to touch him and run my hands along his entire body.
He was already hard, and when he shoved his pants down my eyes widened in awe. I couldn't help but stare and note that yes he was extraordinarily hard indeed.
He helped me slip out of my bra my full aching breasts already pebbling in anticipation of his touch and then my lips found his once more in desperation.
I felt him lift my ass up into his arms but our lips never lost contact and he placed me on the bed. I had been in such a hurry to touch him, my body now humming for his energy I didn't have the chance to remove my shorts or panties.
I wrapped my hips around him instinctively as we kissed. His fingers caressing my neck lightly, and then he lowered his hands, touching, fondling, and kissing my perky breasts.
I felt a warmth flood my thighs and I pulled his head up to meet mine deepening our kiss. My tongue slid over his, one hand on his neck the other caressing his perfect ass and then his hand dipped down into my panties.
I shuddered when I felt his fingers enter me.
All thoughts of the past and those bad feelings of other men touching me disappeared when I realized the only thing I was thinking about was the pleasure Eric was giving me at the moment, not anything else, and it was amazing.
"You're so wet." He spoke with hot breath against my flesh and I moaned, signaling the first wave of pleasure. He did something I had never felt before twisting his fingers around inside me causing more pleasure, more friction, more desire…
"Mmmmffff." I groaned again this time a little louder. Oh god he felt so good.
Eric smothered his lips over my mouth and I realized he had taken into account something I hadn't.
My Gran was just down the hall, I remembered in my foggy haze.
Who knew sex could feel like this! I thought, clamping down on his tongue in order to muffle my additional moans of pleasure.
He quickened his pace undoing me layer by layer, I just couldn't hold back any more my muscles clenching and relaxing as he carried my body away with him into orgasmic bliss. Until finally I gasped in his mouth and my final moment came.
We lay there for a minute his hand still resting in my now drenched panties, a few moments of silence passed between us and then Eric replied…
"I missed you too." He confessed with a glint in his eyes and then he kissed me again.
I reached between us and tugged my panties down in an attempt to remove the last layer between us. He helped me pull them off and moments later, I remembered what heaven really felt like.
xxxxxx
EPOV
I woke up to the sound of an engine firing up outside. Sookie's window had been left open and I recognized the motor that belonged to her Grandmothers pick up truck. I knew then that we were alone and we had only a few precious hours before we both had to be at work. I exhaled.
Being with Sookie was like being addicted to something incredibly potent, she was like no drug known to man. I was so hopelessly hooked on her. Her smell, her touch, her feel, her perfect body…She didn't know how beautiful she was. All I wanted to do every time I looked at her was ravish her. I would do anything for her.
I loved her so much.
I began to trail kisses along the back of her neck softly and she moaned moving her body in order to press directly against mine and I felt as if this was exactly where I was supposed to be right now. I could certainly get used to mornings like these, and spooning, I thought happily inhaling her sweet scent.
She tugged on my arm, pulling it up to her head so she could use it as a pillow and I trailed more kisses along her shoulder blade. I moved my hand down to rest in between her thighs playfully stroking her silky skin.
"Are you awake?" I asked her gently waiting for a murmured reply.
She didn't say a thing but I saw her lips twitch into a smile and then her foot slid along my leg and her ass rubbed over my naked cock. She totally knew what she was doing. I smirked to myself, looking down at her, I noted her eyes were still shut tight. I ran my free hand over her hardened nipples and whispered into her neck, licking her artery and then speaking…
"I'm so glad you are asleep right now lover, I cant wait to have my nasty way with you…Just stay put and Ill be back with the handcuffs and strap on."
She dropped her jaw and turned her face to look at me in disbelief, and I couldn't help but laugh…
"So you were awake?"
She pushed my chest lightly as if in outrage and finally she proclaimed…
"Unfortunately yes, and by the way you sure know how to wake a girl up."
I smirked devilishly and replied grinding my hardness against her backside…
"I don't like to brag, but yes, I have mastered the art, you would be surprised at how many ways there really are."
She flipped around her arms and legs flinging around me like a damn spider monkey in greeting and she confessed meeting my gaze…
"You are so bad."
I kissed her, our lips dancing and I answered after a few tender lip locks…
"I know, but that's why you love me…"
She smiled as I went for her neck, her chest heaving and eyelashes fluttered as I planted a love bite on my favorite spot…
"Maybe."
She answered smugly and I stopped suddenly, looking at her a moment of doubt passing through my mind and I asked…
"Just maybe?
"You get in plenty of trouble, but that's not why I love you…"
I raised my brows because now she had gotten my attention…
"Oh really, and why is that?"
And she remarked with a smirk…
"Oh no, I'm not falling for that, if you want me to answer that question, you go first…"
I laughed and replied…
"So you want to play that game do you?" I asked and she nodded her head and smiled smugly giving me no other option but to play along, and pretended to think for a moment…
"Hmmm? Well you are determined, ruthless, will stop at nothing to help the ones you love, you are brave, and sweet and kind, and an excellent lover."
I wiggled my brows and she laughed tossing her hand against my chest playfully she rolled me over on my back and asked me as her long golden tresses draped over my chest enticingly…
"And what else?"
I raised my brows in intrigue…This was clearly turning her on, as it was me and she rubbed over my pelvis playfully…
"You value tradition and family…"
She smirked and began to trail her long hair over my chest. Oh god she felt good.
"You are like my own private spider monkey, my own private very limber little spider monkey."
Then she swatted the side of my ass.
I answered with a kiss in an attempt to end the foreplay as she braced herself against my chest…
She smiled, and I looked into her eyes deeply as if I was looking into her soul, I replied…
"You're not like any other girl I've met before, you're different…"
The expression on her face wavered and I assured her…
"Different in a good way…I wanted you the very first moment I laid eyes on you in that bar…"
She smirked and she shook her head in denial…
"You're such a liar."
I chuckled and shook my head…
"It's true."
Sookie looked at me for a minute as if she was studying my virtue and finally she confessed…
"I think I wanted you too."
My smile broadened and I shook my head in disbelief…
"I knew it."
She put her hand on my chest and threatened me…
"Don't get cocky Eric."
I laughed and replied with a smirk, looking down at my burning hard on as if to prove my point…
"That's kind of hard to do when you have been so encouraging Darling."
Sookie followed my gaze south, swallowing for a moment, and then she pulled herself together smiled and I flipped her over on her back getting her to finally surrender to me, and she admitted breathlessly…
"Yes sometimes it is very hard"
"Yes it is." I agreed with one brow raised.
Before I crashed my lips over hers and sunk said hard burning desire deep inside her.
xxxxxx
SPOV
Eric was an amazing lover. When we made love it was like everything else faded into the background and it was just us, the only two people in the universe.
I watched the intensity in his eyes as he took his sweet time taking me to my climax.
I wrapped my legs around him climbing that peak along with him and then he pinned my legs down which allowed him to slide into me further.
I gasped and moaned in ecstatic torture as he moved deeper and deeper, which in turn caused me to see stars as he continued his pillage into my core.
I didn't care if my Gran was right outside, I didn't care that I had to work today, I didn't care what anyone thought of us, right now it was just us and I was smitten with him.
In the back of my mind I heard birds chirping outside, Eric's heavy breathing laced with mine before he leaned in and smothered his mouth over mine once more.
I found it hard to think or to imagine my life could ever be perfect, but this felt pretty darn close to perfection.
He hit that spot deep down inside me that caused my whole body to shake and I knew we were close.
"Eric!" I moaned his name helpless to stop what was about to happen, placing my hand on his face as I felt the walls expand and contract and then he looked at me his eyes burning into my soul and I opened to him completely, blinded by the white light I felt my body stiffen.
"Sookie!" His voice echoed in the back of my brain as my eyes rolled back and then my body fell off that cliff into a pile of mush below his.
He soon followed, his lips falling against mine and we kissed with an intense desperation I didn't know still existed, but it did.
I heard a car door slam outside which snapped me out of my post coital haze and I looked back at Eric in alarm.
As if he knew what I was thinking he propped up on his long muscular arm. I attempted to sit up but only got a mouthful of Eric's nipple which caused another wave of heat to pass over me.
Eric smirked back at me and he replied…
"You know you are allowed to stay in bed, you are a grown woman after all."
I bit my lip knowing he was trying to per sway me to stay in bed, but I couldn't do this with my Gran right downstairs.
Eric leaned over me as far as he could go and he replied…
"Looks like it's your brother."
"Jason?"
"Yes, unless you have another brother." I flipped my eyes up not in the mood for his sarcasm and replied while trying to push off his 225 lb body…
"I have to deal with him sooner or later, my Gran can only hold him off for so long."
"Your Grandmother left about an hour ago." Eric replied.
"You mean she left? You knew she left and you didn't tell me?"
"Yep." He smiled smugly and I swatted his arm. He finally moved to let me pass and asked guilting me out of going anywhere…
"You haven't spoken to your brother since…."
He looked at me in question and I shook my head, feeling bad about that.
I yanked what was left of my sheet over me replying…
"Ill wash up and see what he wants."
Eric looked at me for a moment in tense pause and I assured him…
"Ill be fine."
"That's good, but I'm going down after you for back up."
I smiled and kissed him one last time quickly on the lips for good measure and I replied…
"At least tonight we won't have to worry about any distractions."
I for one couldn't wait and I was looking forward to alleviating some of the tension, which I knew we would both most likely require again tonight. Tonight couldn't come fast enough in my opinion. I quickly skirted about trying to find something suitable to confront my brother in and then went into the bathroom to wash my face.
I had brushed my teeth along side Eric. He said he was going to take a shower so I left him to that doing my best not to peek because I knew he'd just try to suck me back into his vortex with him, which wouldn't be very productive for either of us. I changed into my uniform because what was the point of changing again if I was going to work in a little under two hours, swept my hair back, and then I went down stairs to deal with Jason.
He was sitting at the kitchen table flipping through the comic section of the Sunday newspaper, and I realized I had missed yet another Sunday service. That had to be where my Grandmother went, I thought. Part of me was relieved because I knew it had been just Eric and I in the house up until Jason came and who knew what kinds of noises we made. That would have been so embarrassing if we were caught. But the other part of me felt guilty. I only hoped the good lord would forgive me for ditching church yet again. One thing was for sure: I had a lot of making up to do when I finally did get my life back on track.
"Good morning." I replied when Jason looked up and he answered reluctantly…
"Mornin."
I didn't want to jump at him the moment he saw me so I made myself busy with making coffee for Eric, and finding some food in the fridge.
After pulling out some eggs, chives, and some left over buttermilk biscuits and honey I thought I should make an attempt to break the ice and I asked Jason…
"Can I make you some breakfast?"
Jason looked at the cookie he was holding in his hand as if pondering whether a cookie was good breakfast and he finally answered…
"Sure, if you got enough for two."
He looked at what I had pulled out and I decided now was as good a time as any to bring up the fact that Eric was here and I replied…
"Actually it will be three. Eric will be joining us shortly."
I wasn't about to tell Jason Eric was naked in my bathroom right now washing off after a late morning of love making. No, that probably wouldn't have gone over well. A shiver ran through me and I tried again to not think of Eric naked in my shower right now.
Jason looked back at me his brow creased and he replied under his breath…
"So he finally decided to show up huh, must be nice for you but I've seen his type before, the love them and leave them type…I wouldn't get too comfortable."
I sighed and set down the coffee cup on the counter and looked back at Jason with a hard stare enlightening him in defense of Eric…
"Eric didn't chose to leave me Jason, I want to stay here with Gran part time…She's getting older now, she needs my help around the house, even if she wont admit it."
Jason met my gaze in question, stubbornly refusing to believe my explanation he replied…
"I wouldn't be so sure of that."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I saw the way he was around that other girl, the blonde, they seem pretty close, she didn't even blink when I tried to ask her out."
I rolled my eyes and enlightened him…
"Pam is his ex, they have a long complicated history, but they are over."
And she can see right through your Bullshit act, I thought.
"Well it's just odd is all I'm sayin." Jason concluded stubbornly and I just shook my head.
xxxxxx
EPOV
I had finished up in the shower and had just dried off when I looked around Sookie's room and realized I should probably bring a few of my personal items over here too. She had done as much at my house.
I took a moment to linger, looking at her photos and various mementos. There was an old one of Sookie, her brother Jason, both standing by a black horse, while a woman with blonde hair sat on top of the magnificent creature. Sookie had her tongue in between her two front teeth smiling for the camera and I couldn't help but smirk. She still had that same attitude today. Headstrong and fearless while standing next to that huge beautiful yet dangerous creature. I sighed knowing that headstrong attitude could get her in trouble, but I would be lying if I said that was not one of the reasons I loved her.
I set down the picture frame, about to go downstairs and rescue my lover from her pain, despite her insistence to handle the matter herself, when I saw a familiar white envelope poking out of her purse. I felt a strange uneasiness when I spotted it, but nevertheless...
I walked over to her desk and picked up the envelope. Sookie's name was written on it in neat handwriting, letters all capital and I turned the piece of paper over in my hand, debating on whether or not I really wanted to read Bills letter. I felt a momentary return of jealousy wash over me, but as I turned the letter over in my hand I realized she hadn't even opened it yet, and the jealousy passed. It's not like Bill fucking Compton ever had a chance of winning her back.
I laid down on her now made bed in disbelief that I was behaving like some pubescent little girl. And rationed that what she didn't know wouldn't hurt her. No way was I going to tell her about my almost felony last night. What surprised me is that I was angry enough to break his neck in two with my bare hands. I didn't know where that rage came from, but the scary part was, I wasn't sure if I still would have necessarily regretted killing him. Although at this point, I didn't think my life was worth the price of his. I had far too much to live for, unlike before.
"Sookie Stackhouse you will be the death of me." I muttered closing my eyes for a moment as I inhaled her scent once more, which had lingered in the bed and in the air around me.
So what were we going to do about her brother? I wondered to myself, my thoughts now turning to her family and trying to make things right. In all honesty I didn't really care what the junior redneck thought of us, but Sookie did, so that made him matter to me.
Then an idea popped into my head and I smiled wickedly thinking this could get me two birds with one stone.
xxxxxx
SPOV
"Well you don't look any different…Ain't ya supposed to get fat right away, ya know, like have swollen feet and bigger boobs and stuff?"
I rolled my eyes because Jason had the manners of a horse fly and I replied trying to keep a lid on it…
"That comes later, and all women are different."
"So you gonna name him after anyone, maybe someone in the family?"
I couldn't help but smirk at Jason's ever so less than coy attempt to get this baby named after him and I played around kidding and replied…
"You mean like Gramps?"
His smile turned straight and I actually though I had witnessed a frown when Eric came strolling in, all 6 feet 5 of him, and looking fabulously delicious in his clothes from yesterday.
"I don't even know the sex yet anyway." I replied meeting Eric's startling blue gaze, which in turn made me experience a heat flash.
Jason nodded and then he noticed my pause and looked behind him.
"Oh it's you, decided to make yourself at home did ya?"
"Jason!" I exclaimed in defense of Eric thinking he was acting extra rude, but Eric simply replied taking a biscuit…
"Yes, home is where the heart is after all." He looked at me and I felt those butterflies stir.
Jason simply rolled his eyes and he sat up straighter as if he had just lost his appetite.
"Yeah, apparently. Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free right?"
"Jason Thomas Stackhouse, you say you're sorry right now!" I ordered him, swiping away his plate, but Eric simply shook his head and he sat down calmly at the table propping his feet up on a chair.
"It's fine Sookie, he is just being protective of you…I get that, I respect that."
Jason nodded his head as if Eric was the only person who understood him and I just stared on in disbelief.
"I know you come around as often as you can to check up on your sister and your grandmother and I think that is very admirable. I mean let's face it, in this day and age, how many brothers really go the extra mile like that. It's an old fashioned touch that is really commendable."
"Thanks." Jason replied nodding his head in agreement. I had to wonder if Eric had just smoked something upstairs because he was talking crazy. Jason came around once or twice a week if best and 9.9 times out of 10 it was to get free food and beer.
"Your Grandmother is really lucky to have a grandson who is as willing to help her out with things around the house, just like her grand daughter, I mean things like putting on a fresh coat of paint in the foyer or even cleaning out the gutters is a huge help to her."
"Well I haven't exactly…" But Eric continued cutting him off…
"And groceries or pitching in to mow the lawn every so often…I'm sure she appreciates that too…"
"Yeah, I haven't had time to help out with those things, but I guess I could come around once or twice a week to help out."
Eric cast me a smug smile and in that moment I knew exactly what he was doing. Eric nodded his head and he patted Jason on the arm…
"I look up to you Jason, I only hope some day I can be a real man and learn a thing or two from you."
Jason smiled in a goofy way and I suddenly realized how gullible my brother really was. And then to seal the deal Eric proclaimed…
"And of course, you're going to be family now, I mean you're going to be an uncle, you have to let me dedicate a party in honor of my new family at my bar…Freyja"
Jason looked back at him sheepishly but when Eric mentioned the name of his bar Jason's face fell in shock…
"That place down in Shreveport? The one with all the dancing girls and crazy light show?"
I shot Eric a look in question. He didn't mention anything about dancing girls.
Eric nodded looking strangely smug and proud of himself. All I could do was roll my eyes and think…
'Men!'
Then Eric replied modestly…
"Yeah, that's the place."
"Well count me in, when is this thing?" Jason asked trying to control his excitement, the light now visible in his eyes but he was failing miserably.
I could see that I had underestimated Eric and his powers of persuasion. He had Jason right back to wrapped around his little finger which was a hard thing to do.
"Well if you give me a little time I can put in a good word for you with some of the dancers."
Eric winked at him and I muttered under my breath…
"Oh for the love of God."
Eric flashed me a cunning smirk and then he went in for the kill…
"How about 3 weeks from today, then we can announce it officially that Sookie is pregnant too. It can be a private party, we will have a 5 star 7 course meal first prepared by my top chef to which Sookie's Grandmother and any other friends you would like to invite can attend, and then we can get to that other part."
This time Jason winked at Eric and I could only shake my head. He was unbelievable. Thanks for checking with me, I thought flashing Eric a glare from across the room. Not to mention I wasn't sure I was ready for the whole world to know yet. I was still getting used to hearing the news myself. Nevertheless, it appeared his plan had worked because Jason was eating it up like candy.
I didn't want to admit that on top of my frustration with Eric's highhandedness, I was kind of nervous. If Jason made good on his word and came around more to help out, did that mean I no longer had an excuse to stay here?
I loved Eric, I enjoyed living with him, but it was all uncharted territory with him. I was a fish out of water. I was afraid if I let go of this place, I would let go of the last memory I had and possibly lose what I remembered about my old self forever. Maybe that wasn't such a bad thing, but I liked things the way they were now. I liked looking forward to seeing Eric at the end of the weekend, and he looked forward to seeing me.
What were we going to do if we were together every day? I was worried we might kill each other.
"What do you think Sookie?" Eric finally asked me and I wanted to tell him…
Oh you mean you actually care what I think? I thought angrily.
He had done such a good job schmoozing my brother I had to wonder if he really did care. And finally I replied truthfully trying not to let my emotions get the best of me…
"I guess that's fine. Ill have to make sure I can get that night off work, maybe I can invite Sam and some of the other people from Merlottes too."
Eric nodded and he replied with a smile…
"Yes."
I sighed knowing my life would never be normal but I could at least try for normal and finally I set down Eric's plate in front of him, along with Jason's old plate I had confiscated and replied…
"Well you better eat up before your breakfast gets cold."
"Breakfast and my own private spider monkey? You certainly know how to win a mans heart Darling."
I shot Eric a glare as my face went totally red from embarrassment, knowing what he was referring to, I did not think it was appropriate breakfast conversation, especially with my brother sitting right here, but its not like he gave a damn or was even capable of feeling embarrassment and then Jason asked him confused...
"Spider monkey?'
I rolled my eyes and told Jason...
"Just ignore him, he's only talking about himself."
Jason looked back from me to Eric most likely thinking we both were crazy and I didn't blame him, and then he returned to shoveling eggs into his mouth.
After a late breakfast, Jason left promising he would be back later this afternoon to get started on sanding the foyer walls. Eric was right, it did need a new coat of paint, it was chipping and there were a few cracks in the foundation that needed patching as well. I supposed if Jason didn't do it, I could.
Eric called one of his friends from Shreveport and asked him if he could help him get his car out later today. I felt bad for Eric knowing that car was his baby. We had never really gotten around to discussing what happened last night, but Eric had mentioned he had to take a detour, so I put two and two together and figured the detour ran along the road that went by Bills house.
I had bigger things to worry about now anyway, no thanks to my baby daddies big mouth, like gearing up to tell the whole town I was knocked up and unwed. I knew that would go over real well with the more old fashioned ones. As if they didn't think I was an outcast before, Id really be one now.
But strangely despite our differences of opinion, I felt like things were emotionally right between Eric and me. I didn't want to push this thing too fast. My Gran had told me once to take things slow and enjoy the ride, and that's exactly what I wanted to do. Why try to fix what wasn't broken? Maybe just maybe those other old coots could just go stick something in their ears if they had a problem with my choices.
When Eric came back from making his call, I told him he could use my car to get around for the day. I saw a slight flicker in his eyes, but he made no side bar remarks about the pathetic piece of junk it was, for which I was thankful. If he had I would have kicked him. You don't turn down a helping hand when it's offered, that just isn't polite.
We spent the remainder of the late morning relaxing in the cool living room. Eric had asked about an old photograph of me with a horse. I figured he had seen the picture I had of my mother upstairs when we were out at my cousins ranch in Wyoming. I knew we had more pictures from that weekend, so I decided to get the album out. I couldn't pretend that it still didn't hurt to see the pictures of my parents tending to Jason and me, but Eric seemed to enjoy looking through them.
I settled in next to Eric on the couch and for the second time that morning, noted how natural this felt, like we just fit.
He smirked and asked me playfully as he flipped another page...
"I love the yellow bikini...you look very fetching."
"Pervert."
I replied half kidding, thinking what kind of a guy admired bathing suits modeled on little girls and Eric replied tugging at my ponytail...
"Yes I was just one of those boys who happened to believe girls did not possess, what is the term? Cooties."
I smirked, thinking that sounded just like Eric, I could picture the playground scene now, he was the one looking up the skirts while the teachers weren't watching and I replied...
"I'll bet you were."
I leaned back against his strong shoulder and closed my eyes, so not wanting to go to work right now. I half contemplated calling in sick, but I knew Sam needed my help over the lunch hour. There was a game on today, sighing I reluctantly peeled myself away from him and groaned...
"I have to go to work."
"You don't sound too thrilled about that." Eric replied as he folded up the album and set it down on the coffee table and I sighed explaining tiredly...
"It's just been a long week, we were short staffed and I pulled a double shift the other night."
"You know, you would not have this problem if you came to work for me." Eric replied with a halfhearted smile and I looked back at him stunned questioning why he was bringing this up.
"You mean like waitress for Freyja?"
Eric smirked and he replied...
"Well there's waitressing or there are other jobs, I've been searching for a PR firm to handle some of our upcoming events but it might be more convenient to have my own PR person in house. And you could get any day off you wanted."
He winked.
I suddenly felt uncomfortable, not liking what he was getting at. Was he ashamed of me for being a waitress? I certainly didn't want any hand-outs, and I answered simply trying to be polite...
"Eric I appreciate the offer, but I'm happy at Merlottes, Sam treats me well..."
My words trailed off and I looked back at him in question again wondering where this was coming from. And then Eric's face relaxed and he answered taking my hand...
"You know me, Ill try anything to get you closer to me."
I bit my lip and looked at him for a moment hesitant wondering if he was really dropping this. But as my gaze met his and he smiled back at me genuinely, I realized he was. I couldn't help but smile briefly at him, thankful for the out. He was ever the charmer that Eric, although it was a relief to know he was not plotting against me and trying to conform me, because that was the last thing I needed right now and I replied batting my lashes and putting on a sexy smirk...
"You'll get me tonight cowboy, don't be greedy now."
Eric smirked back at me and he leaned in and pressed his soft lips to mine, igniting a flame between us that burned all my worries away.
xxxxxx
EPOV
I dropped Sookie off at work around noon and then spoke to my friend Bobby about getting my baby out of that ditch. Luckily this time Bobby was around, unlike the last time, when I was stranded on the highway with a flat. That was an adventure and a half.
I was nervous to see the damage in the daylight frankly and when he said he'd meet me I rushed over in that hunk of metal Sookie called a car to survey for myself. I thought I might need a moment to take it all in if things were worse than I had suspected.
I got there about 15 minutes before Bobby and saw that I had only lost one tail light from what I could see on the exposed sides and there was a long scratch mark on the hood.
Fucking wolves!
I thought angrily wondering what the hell they were doing out here. I never remembered hearing about or seeing any before in this part of Louisiana.
Must be from all that urban sprawl, I thought bitterly looking at my poor baby. Either that or it escaped from the zoo. I read somewhere those things can cover a hundred miles in only a few days.
When Bobby got there we hooked up my car to his tow truck. Unfortunately once the car was lifted, I realized the side panel was all dented, and I knew this was going to cost me.
My knees jammed against the dashboard in Sookie's little Gremlin crunching me within. Her seat felt like a wooden board but it got me where I needed to go, and I figured when the time came for us to discuss getting a new mode of transportation for the baby the choice would be easy as to who's vehicle goes.
Thankfully Bobby told me they could have my 'Red' ready by Monday afternoon if he could get the side panel replacement from the dealership.
After dealing with my car, I stopped home first to change and then onto Freyja. Sundays were always busier around brunch and dinner, but people didn't stay too late, so I didn't feel that bad about leaving early. I had gotten a lot of work done this week. Always amazed at what could be accomplished when I concentrated at my task at hand, I thought.
Chow gave me shit about driving in that yellow piece of scrap metal and I told him to "Fuck off" before I left. He just smiled and waved goodbye.
By the time the evening rolled around I was so ready to grab Sookie, lock her up in my house and have my way with her. I even got to Merlottes a few minutes early. She spotted me when I came in. She was holding a few menus in her hands and explained with her sweet smile…
"I'll be ready to go in a few minutes, I'm just waiting for Dawn to get here, she's always 5 minutes late."
She kissed the spot below the corner of my mouth and I smiled sheepishly as she ran off to seat the customers. Fine I supposed I could wait a few more minutes for my little slice of heaven I thought.
I looked around and saw a newspaper rack in the doorway. I grabbed a copy of the latest Onion and leaned against the wood wall divider and crossed my legs as I scanned the paper for horoscopes. The Onion did always have funny ones, I thought.
I was midway through scanning for Sookie's horoscope after having read mine when a familiar dark flash cloaked by a deep musty scent, repulsive to my nose came gliding through the door. My muscles stiffened instantly as I looked on shooting daggers into the back of his head.
Bill Fucking Compton.
He waltzed up to the hostess stand and that red head came over to greet him…
"You're here again today? We can't seem to keep you away from this place can we? But I won't complain because its definitely good for business and my tips."
She winked at him and Bill replied…
"Actually, thank you Arlene, but I was wondering if I could be seated in Sookie's section?"
"Well honey, you can but she's about to get off in about 5 minutes, soon as Dawn get's here. I can seat you in mine and tell her you're here, how does that sound?"
Arlene offered brightly, and my blood suddenly began to boil. What the hell was he doing here? And twice in one day? I was feeling that urge to crush something again. Something head shaped perhaps? My nostrils flared as Bill replied…
"That would be delightful, thank you Arlene, and don't worry, I always tip my waitresses a little extra."
He winked at her and she smiled brilliantly.
I don't know why, but at that moment, I knew something had to be done about him. I didn't regret not finding him last night, but I wasn't relieved either. I had been foolish to go after Bill. I could admit that to myself now. If I really wanted to kill him, it wouldn't have been in some pathetic act of uncontrolled rage. No, it had to be calculating, concise, and above all, in no way whatsoever, traceable back to me. I shook my head knowing how sloppy I almost was, pledging to not let that happen again. My angel saved me, but how could I return the favor and save her from this creep?
I had enough of this guy trying to weasel his way back into Sookie's world. The fucker had wreaked havoc all over my life and practically got me sent away to prison for 30+ years, not to mention he hurt Sookie worse than even my most horrific nightmares could have dreamed up. There was no way in fucking hell he was getting his way right now. Controlled anger or not, he had to be dealt with.
I set down the paper strode up to Bill from behind, clamped my hand down on his shoulder in threat, and spoke…
"Bill Compton what a surprise to see you here!"
I replied with acidic kindness, and he turned around to gaze back at me with a glare...
"Well well well, if it isn't Eric Northman, the man who stole my fiancée out from right under my nose, left me for dead, and then proceeded to get himself locked in jail for murder...You must be proud?"
I rolled my eyes even hating the sound of his voice and corrected him sharply...
"She was never your fiancée..."
"She was my girlfriend, but apparently you just happen to be one of those bastards who don't value commitment and old fashioned true love. I was her first you know, not like you'd give a damn about that either. You just want to pillage whatever female is willing to spread her legs, and in turn end up pissing all over any chance of a decent and steady life she might have. Why are you here anyway, you decide you wanted one more good fuck before you leave her barefoot and knocked up?"
"You've got 3 seconds to get out of here Compton before I made your face look like road kill."
Bill turned around sharply his eyes narrowed and then he shook his head…
"What's wrong Northman, are you afraid she might slip away from you if she talks to me? Are that pathetically insecure?"
He snorted and looked at me in disgust and then turned around and muttered..."Fucking prick!"
Arlene was back now with a weary smile on her face and Bill concluded wiping the anger off his face…
"I apologize for the interruption Arlene, please show me to my seat."
"Arlene, don't show him any where." I interrupted coolly staring Bill down and he glared at me.
Arlene stood there unsure of what to do and then Bill came closer to me, standing in my face in challenge, he replied with a hiss…
"I can't believe they let you out of your cage, but I assure you if you try anything Ill have the police here so fast you won't see the handcuffs coming. Maybe they'd be interested to hear about your little rendezvous last night on Old Parish Road, not really sorry to see the penis mobile go though. Bet she's really disappointed about that car, maybe things are finally starting to look up for us guys who don't need the extra props to get women"
My eyes tore into his. So he had seen me? I knew I had gotten too close, it didn't help that I had to leave my car for the night either.
"Oh please do call them, I have a thing or two to tell them myself…" I spat back wishing against god and all the religions that Sookie would report this son of a bitch to the authorities. Bill leaned in again, his voice like poison to my veins as I was forced to suffer through more of his shit filled words and he hissed…
"You are good, Ill give you that, even fooled an entire court, but we both know the truth that you killed your army buddy and you would have killed me too if you had the chance. She should have left your ass back to rot in that jail cell where you belong."
He sneered and that's when I knew I couldn't contain the rage any more. My fists balled up into knuckle shaped steel and I hit him square in the jaw.
Arlene screamed….
"Ohmigod Sam! Sam get out here!"
Bill shot a punch back at me hitting my nose and I felt the blood drip out.
"Please don't hurt me I just got my nails done!" Arlene shrieked backing away from us.
I got an elbow into his other jaw as we turned over a near by table and that's when I heard Sookie screaming from behind…
"Stop it! Stop!"
I looked back at Sookie and Bill sucker punched me in the gut. There was no way I was going to let him get away with getting his last slimy shot in. I balled up my fists once more, hearing Sookies frantic voice behind me yell…
"ERIC!"
But she couldn't stop me. I had too much hate for this man. I wanted to see him suffer the way he made Sookie suffer and, I used my head to crash my skull against his causing him to see stars as he fell back on his ass.
"Eric!" She proclaimed angrily glaring at me and then her boss in apology, Sam came running up.
"If you two don't get your asses the fuck out of here right now I'm calling the cops, and don't think I wont do it!"
I had called Bills bluff earlier, but there was no doubt in my mind that Sam was dead serious. More dealings with the cops wasn't exactly what I needed right now, in fact it was the last thing. I met Sam's gaze apologetically and then I simply nodded my head wiped my bloody nose, looked back at Sookie and replied…
"Ill be outside."
"Sam I'm sorry!" I heard Sookie speak behind me, but I thought it would be better if I just left and waited for her outside.
I took my familiar perch on the curb and heard footsteps approach. I knew who it was before even turning around.
But she kept walking past me and then announced sharply over her shoulder…
"Give me the keys.'
I rolled my eyes knowing she was pissed, but so was I. Hoping I would at least get the chance to explain myself, not that my actions needed an explanation. Bill was an asshole plain and clear and I wasn't going to apologize for that.
"You really have no idea what you've done in there have you? I saw you throw the first punch Eric!"
Sookie proclaimed and I replied…
"If you knew what he said you would have been rooting me on."
"You're not even sorry are you?" She spat back and I shook my head replying as I got to the passenger side.
"Nope."
She shook her head and muttered under her breath…
"Unbelievable."
I didn't say anything, electing to choose my words carefully, I decided to let her cool off a bit. I knew I could use a cold ice bath right about now, as could my body.
I sighed, slid in to the passenger seat but my knees jammed up against the glove compartment. I winced because this time The dash crashed against my skinned knee. I was having a hell of a couple days. Funny how trouble only seemed to happen for me when I was around Sookie, I thought absently. Deciding to keep my thoughts to myself,
I found the seat bar and slid it back. The glove compartment popped open once my legs slid back with the chair causing the contents to fall out.
A long rectangular piece of paper floated to the ground along with a flash light, tire gage, and insurance card. As Sookie slid in I picked it up the paper and flipped it over. I was about to shove it back into the glove compartment when I recognized the familiar handwriting on the signature line then my face fell…
What the fuck?
Sookie was so angry she had slammed her door and started the car, before she realized what I was looking at and then all the blood drained from her face as her gaze dropped to my hands.
I had apparently discovered a check from Bill Compton, made out to Sookie Stackhouse for $20,000 dated last week.
"I don't think unbelievable would do this justice."
I finally replied flatly. Apparently my actions hadn't been so out of line after all, questioning now which one of us wanted to go first