2nd installment, once again I don't own anything, I am not nearly as talented, and creative as those who created the movie nor the comic of The Lost Boys. Even then, please enjoy, and if you feel like it leave a review.
Early the next morning Sam, Michael, and I were out by the beach. Michael thought it would be a good idea for Sam to try to learn how to surf. He claimed it would help get his mind off the lack of malls, and MTV.
"Seriously Michael, do I have to?" Sam was dragging his feet in the sand as we drew closer to the ocean, trying his best to delay the inevitable.
"Come on Sam, you know before there were Malls, there was 'like the ocean dude'" Michael put on his best surfer bro accent at the end as he displayed his hand out in front of him, waving it across as if trying to paint the ocean in a painter's light.
I barked a laugh, pulling out my short novel from my tote bag to get started on it.
"How come You don't have to practice?" Sam whined, his bottom lip jutting out in a dramatic pout.
"Ha - please, Jac can barely stand still on solid ground without falling, she wouldn't be able to even sit on the board." Michael laughed, probably imagining the sight of me actually trying to get up on the board in the middle of the ocean.
I joined in on the laugh myself knowing that he was right, then shoved him playfully kind of hoping he'd lose his balance in the sand. This was Michael though, so of course it barely phased him.
"Big jerk" I huffed, feigning irritation, and took a seat on the sand; just close enough for the waves to wash over my bare feet.
"I'll be right here Sam, once you need a break."
With that the boys waded into the water, and Michael tried his hand at surfing, along with trying to help his younger brother out. I looked up from my book a couple times to watch my brothers' struggle. Michael being the natural athlete he was, picked it up pretty quick and was able to do at least some basics on the board in a short amount of time.
Sam however was a bit of a disaster, He could barely stand on the board for more than a minute, before plunging into the water with a yelp. It was a lot more than what I would be capable of, but it was just as horrendous to watch. By the time Michael got a grip on his own surfing, Sam came back and sat on the shore with me, watching Michael have his fun.
There were a couple large seals not too far off, that I thought amusedly looked like they were clapping for Michael. I tapped Sam's shoulder and pointed out the seals; he laughed at their display but enjoyed seeing them all the same. It was a great time just us all being together; that was until another guy with leathery tanned skin, and dirty blonde hair, that looks like he never washes the salt out of it came rushing by Michael. Causing our Brother to lose his balance and wipe out into the waves.
A few more of the surfers followed suit, laughing as they passed Michael in the water. I can hear one of them shout, "My Beach, my Wave, dude!" As they pass by.
"Assholes" I grumbled under my breath, as I watched them go further out, and Michael started wading back to shore with the rented board.
After the boys returned their wetsuits and boards, we all made our way back to the boardwalk to meet mom. She actually started her first day at the Video store and shouldn't have that much longer to go.
Once we walked through the doors of the video store, mom met us at the front, to ask us how the day was going. Sam took this opportunity to excitedly explain to her how our morning was going so far. After Sam stopped, and gave himself time to breath, mom told us she would get off in just 20 minutes and we could all grab some food. That finally lightened Michael's mood a bit.
I wasn't sure exactly why he let those surf nerds get under his skin, but I knew it was most likely not them per say, but just that it added on to the growing pile of crap we were already dealing with. I do my best trying to distract him and cheer him up, which seems to be going great until Sam brings up another embarrassing story.
"Michael, let's come here tonight, just you and me on your Honda." I suggested, whispering it in his ear while we sipped on our milkshakes. He nodded with a grin; a deal made. If we came here together on his Honda then we could leave whenever we like, and we won't have to babysit Sam. I love my younger brother to death, but he's 14, and we are 17, there isn't a lot that we all are interested in; plus, he still has a curfew, and a weak stomach for rides.
Like promised later that night after supper, I quickly dressed in some skinny jeans, and a comfy faded Guns N' Roses Band Tee. Then Michael and I hopped on his Honda to go to the Boardwalk alone. I held his sides as we raced down to the boardwalk, leaving mom and Sam back at Grandpa's house for the night. Finally, we had a night of pure freedom, to do as we pleased, for as long as we pleased.
I took this time to really relish in the feeling of air rushing past me as we drove into the night, following the growing lights and sounds of the boardwalk. I loved this feeling I got, it was just a little piece of freedom, no worries of school, family, rules, curfews, absolutely nothing. Just my best friend and I finding whatever fun and possible trouble we can get into together.
When we finally reached the boardwalk, he parked right off to the side near the railings instead of in the actual parking lot. It was going to be much easier to find when we ultimately have to come back to it at the end of the night. Once we unmounted, I looked around taking in everything at once, trying to pick which ride or attraction we would want to try first.
Michael was the first to choose, grabbing my forearm and leading me to this ride, called the Octopus. It had about 4 arms, and each arm had 4 sets 2-seater cars it was holding; these arms would be spinning Right Or Left, all while each individual set of 4 cars spins within their group. It was definitely a good pick for the start of the night.
We seemed to have gotten to the boardwalk just early enough for the lines to be almost non-existent, as we didn't have to wait but a couple minutes before we were being belted in. All throughout the ride I kept my hands up while I screamed and laughed, Michael mirroring me with his own yells.
The first couple hours of us being at the boardwalk was spent just like this; we went on the fastest, and most thrill-inducing rides we could find. At first it was easy to go from ride to ride, but as dusk became truly night, the lines grew longer, slowing our fun. Soon it would take almost half an hour waiting for one ride alone, so we decided to give the rides a rest for the night, and just start perusing the shops.
One sold little trinkets like little necklaces, bracelets and earrings with feathers, fangs, talons, and shells being the main decorative pieces, or dreamcatchers that are so small they can fit in the palm of my hands, to ones nearly half my size.
Another store we came across called itself an antique shop, but quite literally only sold junk. It was all clearly crap he stole out of dumpsters or may have even stolen some right off of unsuspecting person's bodies.
We stopped by another shop selling leather and jean jackets that I thought was cool. I already owned one of each in my wardrobe, but I helped Michael pick out one that I thought looked nice.
It was simple, just a basic black jacket to go over his grey Tee. I had a feeling that he was mostly wanting it to feel on "par" with the guy's last night, but I didn't bring it up to him. He would only deny it, and I don't see any harm in him boosting his confidence.
I nearly regretted it though as he channeled his new character and strutted around the boardwalk; I stifled a giggle but followed him around. He paused in front of a booth that currently had two young blonde women, one sitting back in a chair and another standing beside her.
"It won't hurt, it really won't" She sounded like she was trying to convince herself more than her friend, and I could tell she and possibly her friend were both a little more than tipsy. They were going to regret this decision in the morning, I could already tell.
I watched, my small smile spreading to a full-on grin, and then a laugh when the piercer finally took the gun to her ear, and she screamed. She tried to sit up and jump out the chair, the gun still to her ear, and possibly stretching out the freshly bleeding hole there now.
I moved my hand to smack my brother in the chest to share in the amusement, but it didn't come into contact with anything but air. I snapped my head over to see that Michael was no longer beside me. In Fact he was nowhere close at all. My stomach felt like it dropped out, and my heart began to race.
He was right here, How can he just up and disappear! I tried to tell myself not to freak out, and that he just found a new shop nearby or had to run to the restroom. I stood in my spot for a short while, just in case he would come back, but after a few minutes I became too antsy to sit still.
I walked throughout the stands, knowing he wouldn't be going on any of the rides this late now. With Every minute that passed the more worried I became. As much as I was sure Michael could take care of himself, the board of a thousand missing person's kept flashing in my mind. I wasn't sure why or how people can just disappear, and how often a new face is added, so the thoughts of the unknown is what worried me most.
'Calm down, don't panic.' I told myself and took in a large breath. I bit my lip in thought as I took in my surroundings and tried to think. Maybe he would head back to his bike? Surely once he found out we got separated he would possibly wait for me by the bike knowing eventually I would wander back there.
With that thought in mind I looked around to determine which direction I should be heading. Luckily Michael and I eventually had the idea to start at the back of the boardwalk and make our way to the front. This way the walk back to Mike's bike wouldn't take that much time.
As I grew closer to the end of the boardwalk that I knew Michael's Bike was, my body practically vibrated in adrenaline. I was just hoping I was correct in my thinking.
Finally, the Bike was in sight and to my delight a familiar head of curly brown hair also was. I sighed in relief, a smile gracing my lips until I saw a figure walking not to step in front of him, a woman. Not just any woman, but the pretty flower child that stiffed him just the night before.
For a brief second, I thought she would blow him off again, but to my utter disbelief I watched as Mike mounted the bike and turned to hold his hand out to her.
"Mike?"
I caught his and her attention as I grew closer to the "couple", they paused, and Michael looked as if he just remembered I even existed.
Michael opened his mouth to speak, but the rumble of Bike engines drowned out whatever he was going to say. We looked around startled, to see that the boys from earlier were now surrounding our little group.
Great, just great, now we got an audience to our situation. I only gave their faces, a once over, before shaking my head and looking at the dirt; crossing my arms in a useless attempt to feel some semblance of security.
"Where are you going Star?"
Without even looking I knew it was David, him being the only one I talked to, he would be the only voice I'd recognize. Feelings of disappointment and a little bit of jealousy bubbled back up into my heart. I hated feeling that way, I barely knew the guy, let alone her; and the last thing I should be is Jealous over some flirtatious jerk.
I shoved the feelings back down, mentally stomping it into the ground. I had a lot more important things to deal with right now. Like How my own brother was literally about to abandon me here alone, in the murder capitol in the word.
"For a ride, this is Michael." There was a short pause before she faced Michael again laying a hand on my Brother's shoulder.
"Let's go Michael" She spoke softly and made a move to jump on the back of her bike. Michael didn't seem to make a move to shoot her request down, which angered me further. He WAS just going to abandon me here! And he didn't even think twice about doing it Infront of this group of strangers! It was as if he didn't care about my wellbeing at all, being his sister be damned.
"Star" David spoke again, in a weird teasing tone, but it worked, she sighed before walking to his bike, and climbing on.
The boys chuckled, seeing the clear rejection written on Michael's face. Michael stood up straight, and rolled his shoulders, as if rolling off the hurt feelings.
"Come on Jac."
"Oh, now that you can't convince the bimbo to run off with you, I get the privilege of not being abandoned here huh?" I growled out in a more hushed tone; one I didn't think the guys would hear over their bikes; but I was wrong, if their laughter was any indication.
Michael gave me a look. I am sure he wanted to defend his little friend, despite her constantly stringing him along then jumping on another man's bike, but he ignored the insult.
"You would have been fine." He ground out, turning away from me, clearly not wanting to continue this conversation.
"That board says otherwise Michael! I don't want to end up as one more face to be forgotten up there, just because you wanted some thrilling one nighter." I hissed out.
My hands clenched into fists at my sides. If the guys heard my comment this time, they at least had enough brains not to laugh out loud.
I didn't want to have a scene in front of these jerks. So though I felt an unimaginable amount of rage, I kept my voice low and my movements controlled so as to not gain any more attention. I wish these guys would just drive off now that they got their stupid wench back.
I took a breath and placed my fingers on my temples to remind myself to calm down.
"Do you know where Hudson's bluff is? Overlooking the point?" Michael and I looked back up at the blonde, he had a smirk gracing his features as he looked between us.
"I can't beat your bike"
You can say that again, Michael's little dirt bike has nothing on the motorcycle's they all seem to be driving.
"You don't have to beat me Michael, you just have to keep up." With that, David was off, the three other men following after him with hoots and hollers. Michael looked after them, an unsettling look on his face.
"Michael you can't be serious"
He started up his bike and revved the engine.
"Get on Jac."
"Mike, we can't just follow them to God knows where!" I tried reasoning with him. Even if he could race them, in what world is following a group of dangerous guys into the dead of night ever a good idea?!
"Jac get on, or walk home." Michael snarled. I froze. I either risk walking home at night, chancing that nothing bad will happen to me while I am alone, or risk that following these jerks won't lead to an even worse fate.
With only a few seconds to decide, I found myself jumping on the bike behind Mike, and having to rush to grip onto his torso, as he didn't even wait for me to settle before He shot off. I nearly slipped off the bike as we tumbled down the stairs of the boardwalk and into the soft sand.
Michael started back up again, chasing after the retreating forms of the boys driving further upon the beach. Michael pushed his bike to it's very limits, and at first it didn't look like it was really doing much. We followed the group across the sand, and under some old piers, and finally into the tree line.
The further we drove in the further it seemed we got from the group, and soon the fog started setting in, and got thick fast.
We couldn't really see anything around us, but Michael still pushed his bike to go as fast as it could, too prideful to lose a challenge. I was caught off guard to hear the yelling and laughter of the boys again. Then it wasn't long before we passed one of the boys on their bikes. I was so sure that Mike wouldn't be able to keep up with any of them, but here he was passing the curly haired one, and gaining on another.
A part of me wondered if they would dare slow down to LET Michael catch up, but that just didn't seem in these guys' nature. They wouldn't let someone win, no matter what reason I could possibly think of. They wanted to be the best, the baddest, the biggest, there is no reason to willingly lose a race, right?
Soon Michael and I passed three of the guys, only able to hear their disembodied screaming and laughter behind us. I could also hear from ahead of us, the spontaneous feminine cry that brought back all the irritation from earlier. I peeked over Mike's shoulder squinting into the wind. We were about to catch up to David and Star now?
There was no way Michael's bike was this fast! We now were neck and neck with David's Bike, Michael and I were looking from him to in front of us, knowing that the edge of the bluff would be drawing near.
"Come on!" David goaded.
Michael seemed to take the bait easily as we kept looking between David and straight ahead but showed no sign of slowing.
"You don't have to win Michael, don't do anything stupid." I whispered in his ear. He already proved his point, he was able to keep up with these guys, we don't have to try to play chicken in this fog.
"Come on Michael!" He prodded again, and Michael kept on falling for it.
"Michael slow down!" I yelled seeing that the edge would be coming up any second now. He didn't seem to want to listen to me though, as now I could see the edge of the bluff as the light from the lighthouse lit up the drop.
In a last-minute effort to keep us alive, I threw my whole body to the side, keeping my grip on Michael so He would twist with me. This caused the bike to wobble and tumble on its side, my left leg scraping against the rough terrain as we skid to a stop. By the time we did stop, the front of Michael's bike was hanging off the cliff. Demonstration just how close we were to actually flying over.
I was breathing hard, trying to gather my thoughts, completely deaf to the sounds around me. The only thing that pulled me back to reality was seeing my brother scramble to his feet.
I watched as he advanced onto David, out of control.
"What do you think you're doing huh!" And with that my dumb brother pulled back his fist and slammed it into David's cheek. I scrambled up as fast as I could and grabbed Michael's arm and yanked him back.
He kept screaming, "Just you!" as the rest of the group dismounted their bikes and came in a little closer to us.
"Stop it! Stop it!" I screamed, now shoving him away from the blonde before his buddies came to gang up on him for attacking their "leader".
"Don't blame him Mike, that was all you! You could have slowed down, but instead you and your big ass head just HAD to win." I growled out keeping myself between him and his target, who hadn't even made a move to step off his bike.
I heard an amused chuckle from somewhere behind me, and I slowly turned to face the smirking blonde. Michael didn't even manage to put a small bruise on his face, no swelling, or even reddening. It was as if his fist did absolutely no damage to him at all.
Still chuckling David leaned towards us, a widening grin splitting his face.
"How far are you willing to go?"
With that Michael stopped shaking in anger and trying to press forward as if to try to strike David again. Instead, his body just stood completely still, but stayed tense. It was weird how he can't seem to stand this guy, yet still is so curious about them all, and so compliant in following them. My case in point, David dismounted smoothly, with a wicked smirk, tossing his head up to the right in a pointing motion.
"Follow us Emersons."
I briefly wondered how he knew our last name, trying to think back to a time we would have said it, but came up empty. I didn't dwell on the thought long though, I wanted to keep a sharp mind as we followed these guys down some extremely old rickety steps down the side of the bluff, closer to the sea. The steps felt out of place, and they could be easily missed if you were not looking for them.
I made it down about half the long flight before I stepped on a rather loose step that gave way under my weight, causing my foot to slide right out from under me. I am sure I would have fell right through the steps when I landed if it wasn't for a familiar pair of arms wrapping around my waist.
"Careful kitten."
My heart skipped against my better judgement, as David's voice entered my consciousness, his cool breath fanning the shell of my ear. I looked up instinctively already knowing whose face I'd see, but I couldn't seem to help it, just like I couldn't help the reddening of my cheeks, and the speeding strum of my heart. Curse my weakness for mysterious men.
"Thanks, again." Though it was a bit of a punch to the gut to have his help again after seeing his seeming relationship with Star. I just did not have the over inflated Pride, to keep me from being grateful for his help.
I went to try to stand up on my own, and once again I felt David shift his arms to help me up. I barely had time to register it though; before my arm was gripped hard and my body practically ripped out of David's grasp, and down a few steps in almost an instant. The move nearly caused me to fly down the rest of these steps face first.
"Hands off my Sister" Michael bit out dragging me down a few more steps as he did so. I nearly fell again multiple times, which got tiring really fast.
My anger flared up even more with Mike's statement, along with the treatment of being dragged around like some kind of rag doll.
'Oh, NOW he cared! The nerve!'
I ripped my arm out of his grasp and held onto the splintered railing, feeling a few pieces of the wood start piercing my palms.
"That hurts Mike, and don't be acting all macho now, you're the reason we are here in the first place, remember?" I hissed out inspecting my arm. I can see red finger marks forming on the bicep from his hand, but nothing that wouldn't fade away to nothing in a few minutes.
I made sure to keep my voice low enough to go unnoticed by the cheering and laughing group that descended the steps before us. I was pretty sure none of them noticed the exchange in their excitement to show us whatever was down these stairs. Well besides Star who occasionally looked back to make sure Michael was still following their little group down.
I was more than a little confused, it really did seem like she and David were somehow involved, yet it was blatantly obvious that she has an interest in my brother. Besides the whole lead him on, then ditch him scheme, she did twice now, she was constantly looking over at Michael while we raced, and she was keeping a close eye on him now. She was trying her best to stay close to him it seems as well, without being overtly obvious.
Not to mention David was very touchy and flirtatious, or at least it felt that way with me, and this time he didn't even bother to hide it from Star's eyes. Maybe they liked making each other jealous? I scrunched up my nose in mild disgust. This better not be some sort of sick game for the two, because I was not willing to play.
Thankfully, I made it to the end of the stairs without another incident. The only discomfort was the Looks Mike sent me. Always changing between a glare to a concerned frown, then shooting David; whom I knew was right behind me, a heated glare as well. I kept myself from rolling my eyes back at the situation. Men! They can never just be straight forward, and simple with anything, especially if feelings are involved.
We followed the guys and Star past many signs warning us off.
'DANGER'
'CONDEMNED'
'UNSAFE'
'UNLAWFUL TO GO PAST THIS POINT'
'Well, isn't that comforting' I thought sarcastically, but I had to admit I was curious as to what exactly we were entering. It looked like it was a normal opening in the rocks, like a cave. I couldn't imagine what could possibly be so interesting here.
A small voice in my mind echoed 'your death', but I suppressed it. I was in too deep now to be having those thoughts, my fate is sealed at this point.
I was nervous as the cave we entered became dark enough to where I could barely make out my brother's outline Infront of me. I wasn't sure what was in here, and I couldn't be sure of my footing. I didn't even realize I slowed or took a pause in my steps until I felt a soft pressure on the small of my back.
"Don't worry little mouse." That breathy whisper in my ear again.
It made my heart race once more. I almost forgot he was holding up the back of the line, despite the little moment we had earlier. I wanted to say I wasn't worried or scared, but I kept my mouth shut and just relished in the comfort of his hand. He didn't speak it aloud, but for some reason I felt like he was saying not to worry because he is keeping me safe.
With the small comfort that I wouldn't have to worry about falling again since he would most likely catch me, I pressed forward with a newfound confidence. It didn't take long before I saw a small golden glow that started to expand the closer, we got. I was able to make out the group ahead of us, fully lit up by the soft light ahead.
I saw Star still looking back every once in a while, a soft smile gracing her face every time her eyes landed on my brother. I thought it odd she felt the need to make sure we were still following when David was with us, but I dismissed the thought quickly. I really didn't care for her reasoning, and I was still bitter about my brother's blatant disregard for my safety when she was around.
Another twenty or so feet in, I finally got to see what was giving off the soft light in this otherwise pitch-black cave, and it wasn't at all what I was expecting. Instead of seeing some fluorescent goo, or an undiscovered glowing plant, or even a small lantern they may have set up here earlier.
Instead, I took a few steps into a Victorian style hotel lobby.
This was possibly the last thing I ever thought I would end up walking into. A gasp left my lips as I took it all in. It was run down for sure, dust and cobwebs covering the furniture and light fixtures in the room, but it had an antique and almost gothic beauty to it. I felt like I entered the phantom of the opera's entrance scene where the old decrepit opera came back to life as the scene moved back in time to its glory days.
The place was a bit tilted, slightly off quilter, and the walls and some items cracked and broken. There were burn barrels placed all throughout the area to light it up in a golden glow and add a bit of warmth to the lost hotel, but besides that everything else was pretty much intact. I took notice of a large lobby mural on one of the back walls, and a wrought-iron elevator in one corner of the large room.
There also was a large fountain, the water no longer running within it of course, and good thing seeing as there is a very large crack in the base of it. It was gorgeous even so, and I found it amusing to see the Rockstar looking guy hop onto the base and start walking upon it while placing a joint to his lips.
When did he pull that out?
My attention was pulled from the dirty blonde when David's voice rang out from behind me as he strutted out to a particular area in the foyer that had a few mismatched seating options. This consisted of a very large pale green Couch, with some stuffing protruding from its back, a faded blue loveseat, with a few tears on its arms. An orange and brown striped cushioned chair, in similar shape to the other pieces of furniture, and a single antique looking wheelchair randomly placed among the pieces.
As David passed, he kept his hand on me till out of reach, his hand starting on my lower back, swiping against it and where my ribs would be before it dropped to his side while he walked to the main area of the lobby.
"This was the hottest resort in Santa Carla about 80 years ago; Too bad they built it on the fault. In 1906, When the big one hit San Francisco, the ground opened up and this place took a header right into the crack,"
David walked right back to his, just making one big circle as he told the story of this place, stopping right Infront of Michael and I, and gesturing his hands up to gesture to this entire room.
"Now it's ours."
"So Check it out, Mikey." The rocker said, with a teasing laugh as he took one more hit of his joint and gave me a playful wink. It wasn't as much flirty as it was simply friendly, something I appreciated at this moment.
"Michael, I want to go." Star's voice crept up on us. I didn't realize she got so close again while we walked further inside the cave.
"You can't go now, you just got here." David said with a chuckle, leading us towards the seating options.
"We were going to get something to eat." Michael reasoned.
I snapped my head towards him in disbelief once again. He literally yanked me out of David's helping arms just a couple minutes ago, snarling at the thought of him touching me. Yet once again, as soon as Star wants to go somewhere with him, he wouldn't bat an eyelash before leaving me here with these practical strangers.
"Good idea. Marko, food." It was the simplest of requests, and as soon as it was spoken, the smallest one who was originally petting a little pigeon on his shoulder, took his leave out the cave. David really left no room for arguments when it came to us staying here.
A part of me wandered what was the actual relationship between him and Star, cause now I was starting to think, this wasn't just a ploy between the two of them to confuse and torture Mike and me.
Star seemed to have given up on her efforts to get my brother alone, and has instead opted for taking a seat a couple feet away from the couches and chairs; behind a bit of sheer fabric hanging from the ceiling. Michael and I followed David's lead as he headed towards the main seating area. During the short walk there, the long-haired blonde handed the rolled joint to David, who then offered it between Mike and I.
"Appetizer?"
I gave him a small smile and waved my hands in a polite decline of the offer. I have tried a little bit back in phoenix and didn't enjoy the feeling I got or the way my mind acted on the stuff, so I never felt the desire to smoke it again. Michael on the other hand took the offered joint gingerly and inspected it briefly before taking a hit.
David took a seat in the misplaced Wheelchair in such a way that almost made it seem like it was his personal Throne. I took a seat on the Loveseat, catty corner to David's chair, while Mike passed the furniture all together to sit on the edge of the fountain right across from David. I assume it was a vain attempt to refuse to get comfortable, as if he could and would leave any minute. Which we all know he wouldn't do.
Michael looked around the place once again, before fixing his gaze on each of the strange characters In the room with us.
"Where are you all from?"
"Here" The twisted sister character laughed out as he turned on his ghetto blaster, to listen to his music. It was loud enough to know what was playing but not loud enough to drown out and distract us from conversation.
"I mean where do you guys live?"
Mike was a little annoyed at his answer.
"Here" The Tall dark-haired member of the group spoke up finally. He was leaning up against one of the walls in the room, reading out of a torn and worn-out book that I couldn't quite make out the title of.
"Your Folks let you do that?"
The boys laughed hysterically at my brother's question, even I thought it was a bit dumb. I have met some rough kids before, but none acted like these guys do; I think it's very clear that they, like a lot of the other teens here, were runaways of sorts.
"We live here Michael, no rules, no parents, we are completely free here" David explained as he pulled a single cigarette from behind his head and lit it while examining our expressions. When his eyes met mine, he smiled again, a softer one than the cold smirk he has been throwing my brother's way tonight.
"You could say we are as Free as birds"
I'm sure my eyes lit up at that, that sounded amazing. I love my family, but to just be able to live as you please, no rules, no worries; just a party every night, if that is what you want. It sounded like a dream, a fantasy. I was curious how they managed it, and for how long they have been living this way.
"You don't worry about food, water, a place to sleep?" I asked, though I knew Marko was out to grab food for us all now, I can only wonder how they afford food and water. Where do they shower? I think I would notice if they haven't bathed in a while, they all smell fine, and in fact I have been close enough to David multiple times now to know he smells great. And where do they sleep here; Or are there bedrooms hidden within this sunken hotel as well?
David only grinned, something mysterious behind it as he answered me, "This place provides everything we will ever need or want."
I wondered what he meant by that. It didn't really answer any questions as to how exactly they stay alive, fed and well here, but at the same time when he said it, it sounded… Inviting.
"So, what, do you just plan to stay here forever?" Michael asked, raising a critical brow as he took another hit of the joint.
David grinned sitting back in his seat and shrugging his shoulders before clasping his hands together.
"Precisely"
I wanted to question it a little further, admittedly intrigued about their way of life, but a call from the entrance of the cave interrupted my thought.
"Feeding time boys, come and get it!" Marko called out carrying a cardboard box with multiple little take out boxes within. The shape, and familiar smell of the takeout giving away the contents.
"Chinese food, good choice." David complimented as Marko stood beside him, letting him have his pick. I perked up at the delicious smell, leaning forward in my seat as I could get a hint of the scent of some General Sou's Chicken, and perfectly fluffy rice. As if David read my mind, he grabbed a little red Box and leaned towards me.
I took the offer gingerly giving a quiet thanks, only to widen my eyes when I saw the contents were in-fact the Chicken I was hoping for. I looked up at David who just gave me a sly wink before grabbing a white box and offering it to Michael.
"No thanks." My brother turned him down for no other reason, but spite. I rolled my eyes knowing it was a little too late for him to be pouting now. The other two came by to look at the goods in Marko's arms.
"your usual is on the bottom-left Paul, Yours on the top-right Dwayne." Ah finally some names to the boys I have spent the last hour or so with. I took notice on who picked up which container to place the correct name with each member. When the dark-haired man that I now know as Dwayne grabbed his meal, he handed me an extra pair of chopsticks he held.
"Oh Thanks!" I grabbed the sticks from his fingers and broke them apart, to finally dig into my food.
"You're welcome" He gave a smooth reply as he took the open empty seat in the much more comfortable looking chair, from his earlier perch; to continue reading and dig into his own meal.
"How can 300 million Chinese people be wrong?" David asked, trying to convince my brother to take a box for himself. Michael eventually conceded and took a box from his hands, opening it up. The rice looked magnificent, perfectly white, and fluffy, cooked to perfection.
It was only after My brother took a few bites that David spoke again.
"How are those maggots?"
Michael and I looked up at him both clearly confused.
"What?" Michael asked, annoyance still in his tone from having to deal with David's antics so far.
"You're eating maggots Michael; how do they taste?" David repeated for him, a dark grin on his face.
I watched my brother roll his eyes and go back to his food, but instead of continuing to chow down he nearly tossed his box down to the floor and spit out whatever might have been left in his mouth. I looked at him questionably, and inspected the contents that spilled onto the ground, only to see perfectly good rice now wasted.
Marko, Paul, and Dwayne laughed uproariously, at Michael's reaction, but Star was not having it. Making her presence known again from the corner of the room, peeking her head out from the curtain to spoil their fun.
"Leave him alone!"
The tone in her voice made it very clear that whatever prank they were pulling was something she wasn't a part of. Once again, I am confused as to whom her loyalties lie; what is her relationship to the boys here?
"Sorry about that, No hard feelings huh?" David's apology didn't quite reach his eyes, Michael and I can tell he wasn't actually sorry, but at the same time, it did just seem like the harmless teasing they have been doing all night to him.
"Here, you can have my noodles" David reached over to hand Michael his container, but after taking one look Michael seemed to shudder and lean back.
"It's worms" He replied, looking a little sick.
I blinked confused, 'worms?'
"What do you mean they're worms?"
David poked his chopsticks around in the to-go container, before grabbing a mouthful of its contents. As David lifted his hand to put the food into his mouth, I got a glimpse of normal Chinese noodles as Mike yelled at him not to eat it.
"They're only noodles Michael" David insisted, leaning the box towards him again, this time Michael grabbed it out of his hands to see it for himself, but he only seemed puzzled as he pulled at the noodles in the cup. The rest of the guys laughed hysterically once again.
I lifted my brow, at him, wondering how he could honestly mistake the food for wriggling worms, and for a moment I was concerned for him.
"You alright Michael? Is the high already kicking in?" I asked, thinking that could be the only logical reason for his madness. It was rather odd that the boys were laughing this hard, and for Star once again to shout at them.
"That's enough!"
That elicited an annoyed groan from Dwayne in the back.
"Chill out girl" Paul waved off her warning, as he fiddled with the controls of his radio, changing the stations to one of his liking.
Michael looked up from the box to me and just shrugged, his way of saying he probably was just feeling the high quicker and stronger than he expected. I leaned back in my seat trying to relax. He seemed fine, and right now he even seemed to be loosening up, even with their pestering.
Before I knew it Marko walked up to David, the Chinese food gone, and a large red jeweled bottle in his hands instead.
It had a beautiful design, and though wine was not the alcohol I thought these guys would consume, it looked rather fitting in this kind of place. Star came walking over from her hiding spot suddenly and stood ever so slightly between Michael and David. She looked between the two a few times, a worried expression on her face, but did not say a word.
Michael looked between the two and me, just as confused as I was with the gesture. She sat idly by while they picked on Mike, and didn't seem bothered by the sharing of drugs, but as soon as a little bit of booze came into the picture now, she was on edge?
David ignored her presence completely, popping the cork off the bottle, and taking a swig himself. His eyes were closed, and he gave a slight shake of his head, as if the taste of the drink was strong. He then looked between Michael and me.
"Drink some of this Michael, be one of us" He tips the bottle towards my brother who seems to ponder it for just a minute before taking the bottle into his hands. I watched as Michael inspected the bottle for a few seconds, hearing the boys a little further off start chanting his name lowly.
I thought it seemed like an initiation, to drink this wine. Which at first seemed out of place after all the crap they have been giving him all night, but after thinking it over, there is always a hazing phase before any initiation; to make sure you are able to handle being part of the group.
Michael seemed like he was about to take a sip but hesitated when Star leaned up and whispered something in his ear. It was too low to hear; but I knew by his partial answer that she was trying to dissuade him from taking a drink.
"Bl...d, yeah right." and he brought the bottle back up to his lips and took a few gulps. It almost sounded like he said blood maybe? but I couldn't continue on the thoughts of what Michael may have said, as the boys in the back were now cheering, and dancing around the room. Michael finished his drink, swaying just a bit from side to side.
Paul waltzed on by him, giving him a pat on the shoulder.
"Let the good times roll" He told him while cranking up the music to the radio and started to dance more wildly around the floor.
Amidst the cheers and chants of "One-of-Us" I watched as Michael was dragged into the celebration by Marko and Paul, clumsily dancing along with them, as if he was already drunk. Star, looking rather dejected, walked away back to her little "hiding" spot and watched my brother celebrate from a distance.
I was trying to figure out what the exchange could possibly mean when I felt the seat beside me dip ever so slightly. I looked over and spotted David, bottle in his hands and sitting so close, that our legs were practically touching. He leaned the bottle towards me, in a silent offer.
I stared at it for a good few minute, wondering if I should break my rule to myself just this once, or stick by it. After what felt like hours of contemplation, but in reality, was only a few seconds, I gave a slow shake of my head.
I placed a hand on the bottle and gently pushed it back towards him.
"No thanks, not tonight." I said, I wasn't sure exactly why I felt the need to add "not tonight" but I just had a feeling that I would be offered again at a later date.
He quirked an eyebrow, a gesture I felt meant he was looking for an explanation.
"Too good to drink?" He asked, it was a bit of a joke, but I knew he did want an answer to my refusal.
"Not really that," I paused looking down at the bottle then to my Brother Mike, then back up into David's eyes, curiosity still laid in those blue orbs.
I sighed and turned my body towards him, I liked David, and since I liked him, I felt it best just to be completely honest right out the gate.
"I don't take drinks given to me by strangers, If I knew you a little better, it would be a very different story, but since I don't..." I spoke slowly and trailing off, not sure where exactly to end it.
David seemed to contemplate my answer for a little while. I couldn't quite read his gaze, but he soon set the bottle down on the floor somewhere out of view.
"Fair enough, little mouse." He raised a leather glove to my face, caressing my cheek in a way that felt far more forward than anything else he has done tonight. He then leaned his face so close to the side of mine, I can feel the scruff of his beard touch my cheek.
"I can be patient." He whispered it in my ear, sending delicious shivers down my spine. He pulled back in an instant, shooting me a knowing smirk, before standing back up and Calling out to his boys.
"I'm driving Jac home, When I get back, we are going to the ridge brothers!" A group of cheers from his boys confirmed they understood. I blinked a few times, as a clothed hand grabbed mine, helping me up and started leading me towards the entrance to the cave.
I looked back to see Michael and the rest still having a grand ol' time, cheering and dancing along to the music, completely unaware that I was being led away. I looked forward again to the back of David's head a little more than confused.
"I am not going with, to the ridge?" I asked, not even sure what "the tracks" were, but a little piece of me felt hurt that I was being left out.
David looked back and threw me an almost sad smile. Almost.
"Sorry Kitten, but the Tracks are not going to be safe enough for you tonight." He looked me down, towards my feet then back up.
"I can't guarantee to catch you if you fall there." I blushed scarlet but nodded my head in understanding. I was notorious for my epic failures to stay on my own two feet, and he has already had to catch me a couple times now.
He kept a hold of my hand the entire way up through the cave, and even once out with the moonlight lighting our path, he kept my hand securely in his grip.
"Wouldn't want you to take a tumble, here would we?" He teased as we ascended the rickety stairs up the bluff. I am sure he was just coming up with excuses not to drop my hand, but I wouldn't have minded anyway. I rather liked the warming comfort his hand gave me; the only thing to make it better would be if he lost the gloves.
When we reached the group of bikes we left earlier, he mounted his signature Triumph, and guided me to get on behind him. While climbing on, I looked towards Mike's Red Honda, and the little pit of worry in my guy increased.
"Don't worry Doll, I will make sure your brother gets home just fine, alright?" I wish my face wasn't so expressive, I feel like I can't keep a single thing hidden from this man. But I was grateful that he was trying to comfort me, nonetheless.
"Promise?" I wasn't sure what exactly I was thinking, asking him that. He didn't have to promise me anything, I only met him a day ago after all. Yet even if he didn't have to, he still patted the side of my upper thigh in reassurance.
"I promise, Now hold on." I did as I was told, wrapping my arms around his torso, trying to fight off the thoughts of being so close and practically embracing this guy; to keep my face from heating up again.
I tried to keep as much distance as one can when on the back of a motorcycle, but David had other plans, in a matter of seconds he was off. I had to squeeze myself into him and tighten my grip around his waist to feel like I wasn't going to just fly off the back.
A noise that was more akin to a squeak came out my mouth when this happened, earning a chuckle from David.
Once I felt brave enough, I lifted my head to be able to see over his shoulder, and see where we were going exactly. It seemed that David was going to drive to the boardwalk where we came from, then let me give him directions specifically to my grandpa's house from there. I took this time to really take in the scene around me; the fog though still apparent wasn't as thick as it was on the ride here, and just rolled lazily upon the ground until we disturbed it by flying past.
The Moon was high in the sky now, and nearly full, lighting up the forest by filtering in through the clusters of leaves at the top of the trees. Once out of the tree line and back on the sandy shores of the ocean, all bonfires have been put out, only smoldering ash remained, and not a single soul besides David and I were out here.
The entire world around us seemed to be blanketed in a dark blue haze, besides the ocean which looked like inky black waves. A glittering, bright, white shattered reflection of the moon sat on the surface of the rolling waters. It was gorgeous out here for sure, and very peaceful; it almost made me forget that this place is threatening.
It was at the moment where I had to give David the few instructions needed to find my grandpa's house when I noticed something I was wondering about earlier.
"Hey, you did let Michael catch up to you!"
I gave the accusation right in David's ear, and I felt his body shake with a laugh I couldn't quite hear as the wind rushed past my face.
"Only because you were on the back of his bike!"
I heard him shout back, causing My stomach to flip-flop around, and my chest to grow warm. I admit it, I am kind of hopeless when it comes to romance, and David is uncharacteristically charming. Who knew a guy like him would be such a flatterer? I tightened my grip a bit and pressed my nose into his shoulder, trying to really soak this moment up; I wanted to keep this as a memory forever.
Time was too short before we pulled up into my grandpa's driveway; all the lights were out, indicating that Grandpa, Mom, and Sam had all gone to bed long ago.
I hesitated to move, but knew eventually I had to get off, and into the house. I eventually and reluctantly pulled myself back, unwrapping my arms from around him. He helped me get off his bike without trouble, and soon it was time to tell him goodnight. I really didn't want to, but I couldn't stand in front of him like an idiot all night delaying the inevitable.
"Thank you, David."
"My pleasure, kitten." I smiled at the nickname and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear nervously.
"Well goodnight."
He leaned forward on his bike a bit, giving me another grin.
"Goodnight Jac."
I nodded, not trusting myself to say anymore, and turned towards the house taking a few steps away from him. About after the fifth step I stilled to a stop, shaking my head at the whirling thoughts running around. I was trying to decide whether I should or shouldn't do what I wanted to.
Before I even knew I made the conscious decision, I turned back around and walked back up to David with a meaningful stride. For once I felt like I was actually able to catch him off guard, cause he seemed to have been about to speak up when I leaned forward, laying a hand on his shoulder, and softly pressed my lips against his.
I was expecting a chaste kiss, something to catch him off guard then run back into the house, without giving him time to reject me.
Instead, though David acted fast, kissing back, deepening the kiss just a little, and wrapping his arms around my waist. I relaxed further into the kiss and raised my arms to wind up around his neck, and softly played with the ends of his hair.
I wasn't sure how long we were like that, but by the time I had to break for air, I realized my position. At some point he pulled me in, and I was practically sitting on his lap while he still rested on his bike.
My eyes fluttered, and I met his electric blue gaze through a half-lidded haze. I felt his thumb running little circles along exposed skin, from my top rising just enough to expose an inch of my waist. It ignited a new hunger in me, but I knew it was something I wouldn't be exploring tonight.
David leaned in slowly once more to place a more chaste kiss on my lips, but no less sweet than the one we shared just a moment before. He smiled, a real smile this time, small but very telling.
"Can I see you tomorrow?"
It may have seemed like a dumb question, but I just wanted to make sure this wasn't a dream, or maybe a heat of the moment, never to be repeated kind of deal.
"Of course, you will be. You're mine now." He gave one more, small kiss, before releasing me and helping me down from his lap and the bike once more.
"Now go get some sleep kitten, I will see you tomorrow night." I smiled and nodded, not even minding the use of the word 'mine'; in fact, I rather enjoyed the thought of being 'his' girl.
"See you tomorrow" I concluded, drifting back to the house on cloud nine; just vaguely hearing the sound of his bike roaring to life once I opened the door to my home.
I turned and watched from my doorway as he finally took off; back down the driveway to meet up with his brothers, and mine tonight. Once He was out of sight I shut and locked the door. I tiptoed through the house, making my way to my bedroom; careful not to disturb mom or Sam this late into the night.
As I finally got into bed and rested my head against the pillow, I thought about how great it would be to live with David, to see the world the way he did. Free to do whatever I pleased, and not having any worries. The logical part of my brain reminded me that life can't be that simple forever; eventually you age, and you need a job as some type of means to continue living your life.
However tonight I tuned that part of my brain out and allowed myself to go to sleep dreaming of the night of freedom I had with David tonight, and the kiss that ended it perfectly.