Feeling an undying terror freeze her blood, Serena put her hands to her
head, griping her hair hard in both, "MOLLY!! MOLLY! WHERE ARE YOU!!!??"
She screamed into the night. Turning around in circles, Serena felt a tear
escape her eye. "MOLLY!" her throat was raw with emotion and fear. Each
scream capable of making ones skin crawl.
Stepping out into his driveway, Darien stood calmly, scanning the surrounding night with his eyes while sniffing the air briefly. Turning his gaze to Serena, he frowned.
Serena, sweeping around to stare at him, untangled her hands from her hair. "Darien." she cried, running to him. Gripping the front of his suit, she gritted her teeth, "Darien, where is she?" she bit out, frantic. Darien took her hands that grasped his clothing, "Serena, calm down.." he stated. Serena screamed in frustration, refusing the let her hold on him go. "You told me I would be SAFE HERE! That this was the safest place for me to be g'DAMNIT! Do you remember telling me that Darien!? DO YOU!" she yelled at him. Pulling her hands away from him, he held them tightly in his own, "Serena, I told you this was the safest place for you. And I meant it. Though, Molly is a completely different story." He said.
Serena gaped at him, eyes going wide, and pulled her hands from him. Stepping back, she rubbed her palms together, growling in frustration. "So sorry Darien. I didn't consider that you'd never think to include my best Fri..damn it, my SISITER!" she yelled, tears rolling down her face. Turning around once more, Serena looked about the wide spance of lawn, trying to find any sign of where she could have gone, or could have been taken. "You may not care about her, or anything about my life outside of this town, but I do." She growled angrily.
Searching to her left, Serena decided to take action, and took off. Running full speed, she had no idea where she was going. "Molly!" she cried as she ran. Though, she never got any answer. "Molly!" she yelled again, but still nothing.
Covering a long distance quickly across neatly kept grass and small flower beds, Serena found herself on the edge of a large area of woods. Gasping, she looked into the darkness lingering between each tree. It was pitch black. "Molly?" she called out in a shaky voice, feeling a bad chill run down her spine. Panting from the run, she realized she had no clue what she was doing. It didn't look like anyone could of cut through the woods. But where else could she have gone? No other place seemed like such a great hiding place. "Molly.." Serena cried in a small voice.
Looking around briefly, she didn't know what to do. Darien was of no help, and that bothered her immensely. He seemed to care about nothing else but her. Literally.
Deciding that whatever choice she made would probably turn out bad, she took a step into the woods, when she found herself frozen. She couldn't move. Something was holding onto the back of her shirt, enabling her from going any further.
Gulping, she turned her head around slowly to see what exactly held her. Jumping when her eyes locked onto a pair of hazel ones. "Oh my god!" she yelped. Shaking, Serena covered her mouth with her hand, and closed her eyes. "Oh god, Dave...it's you." She said in relief. Dave chuckled, "Are you sure you want to go running off into the woods at such an hour?" he asked in his deep voice. Serena opened her eyes, and dropped her hand to her side. "I don't know." She chocked out, holding back tears, "Molly....Molly, she's gone, and..." "Shh, shh Serena. It's alright. Darien has her back at the manor." He said. Serenas jaw dropped, "What?" she asked. Dave smiled, and released his hold on her. "Yes, he found her lying next to the fountain, not fifty feet from where the both of you stood." He said.
Serena faltered in a step from her disbelief. "She's, she's ok?" she asked. Dave nodded, "Looks like it. Now come, we'll both see to her." He said, prompting an arms towards her. Serena sniffled, and looked at it. Fear for her friend was no longer burning in her system. Instead, an angry fire did. Something that consumed her. Anger about what she had been through, her wounds, her situation, Darien, vampires, and now, add the fact Molly was once again attacked in her presence. She couldn't keep her friend safe. She couldn't keep anyone safe. She was a danger to be around. What good was she to anyone?
"No, no I'm fine, I'll just walk there.." Serena mumbled, engrossed in thought.
Walking with heavy steps over his manicured lawn, Serena absently chewed on her thumb nail. It was a further walk than it was a run.
Finally reaching the front door of the manor, Serena dejectedly placed her hand on the knob. She was angry all right, but it was subdued. Too subdued for her own good. She felt broken. Numb. She had no idea if she had a right to yell at Darien, or not. She just needed to see Molly first. To know if she was really alright.
Entering the house, she walked into the Foyer, feeling the presence of Dave behind her. Molly was lying on the couch, eyes closed in unconsciousness. Serena moaned in defeat. Yet again, Molly was hurt. But this time, it was her fault. She had brought her friend to Darien's house, invited her into the abnormal.
Crouching down beside her friend, she patted her hand as she cried silently. She looked alright, only having a small bruise where she new a bump would surface, on her forehead. But Serena was caught up in her own sorrow. She was now unfit to be around anyone. "She'll be alright." She heard Darien speaking from somewhere off to her left, but didn't acknowledge him. She was too much involved in her own thoughts.
"Serena.." She felt him walk to her, and gently grab her forearm to pull her up. But feeling his touch, she violently pulled out of his hold. She now fully felt her anger. Brushing a few strands of Molly's hair from her eyes, she watched her flinch suddenly, and her eyes shoot open.
Gasping, Molly looked around frantically, before looking straight at Serena. "What happened?" she asked panting. Serena smiled sadly. "You.....you fell and hit your head. You were, outside. I guess, you lost your balance or something." She said. Groaning comically, as she usually did, Molly touched her hand to her head. "Oh, I'm gonna feel this tomorrow." She said grinning. Serena sighed, and changed from her crouching position to sit on the floor. "You ok?" she asked, drying her tears with the backs of her hands.
Molly sat up slowly, Shaking her head a little. "Yeah, just a little headache is all. Nothing to worry about. You know me." She said, shutting her eyes tight and reopening them. Looking at her friend she cocked her head to one side, "You alright?" she asked quizzically. Serena laughed a bit. "Yeah, yeah I'm fine."
Molly looked around the room, to see Darien standing behind Serena. "Sorry to be such a bother. But I gotta say it's more common for Serena to have klutz attacks more than I." She said grinning.
Darien smirked. It was a minimal show of humor on his part, but a gorgeous act that made Molly clear her throat and look back at her placid friend. Frowning, she shook her, "Serena, I'm fine. What's wrong?" she asked.
Serena shook her head. "Nothing. Just..nothing. Come on, I think you'll wanna stay here tonight. I don't want you going home anyway." She said, standing up. Molly would have argued that she needed to go home, but the look on Serenas face told her otherwise. Her friend was more than just upset, she was angry. Angry at Darien she guessed. But that was something she didn't want to dive into, unless Serena did. In which case, she would completely verbally bash him and sick Andrew on him.
"Alright.." she said, somewhat agreeing with her.
Turning around, Serena saw Darien, standing not a foot in front of her. Many thoughts were running through his head. She could feel them. But she didn't want to think about them, or even him. She just wanted to leave. She wanted to gather she scattered pieces of herself, just, to be.
Helping her friend off the sofa, She led Molly to her room. "I know there are plenty of rooms in the house. But it'll make me feel better if you just stayed in mine along with me." She said, walking through her doorway. Looking around, Molly smiled. "This is really nice. So..you and Darien aren't sharing a room then?" she asked, putting her hands in her back pockets and wiggling her eyebrows. Serena laughed. A real, genuine laugh. "Hardly.." she said, going through her drawers to find Molly some pajamas. Thankfully they were the same size. "So, what are you too sharing then.." She asked. Sitting on her bed.
Serena turned around, holding a pajama set in her hand, "Scuse me?" she asked incredulously, throwing the clothes at her. Molly laughed, catching them. "Ya heard me. What are you two sharing them. Common interest Serena. You don't seem have any obviously apparent ones. I mean, you're so down to earth, and he seems so..extravagant." She said, glancing around the room. Serena put her hands on her hips. Had it come from anyone else, Serena would have been mad at what was said. But Molly and her were so close, that bluntness was typical. Sighing, Serena ran her fingers through her hair. "I know." She said, walking to the other side of the bed to sit down.
"Then, how do you guys click?" she asked. Looking around the room, Serena shrugged her shoulders. She wasn't prepared for a line of questioning. Although, she knew she should have been. "I don't know Mol. I guess, I guess it's that we seem to be on the same wave-length. He can be the devil sometimes, but, he's too charming. He's sweet to me even when I'm a complete bi....well, jerk." she said smiling. Molly grinned widely, "Ahh, I see. So Miss, my-feet-are-firmly-planted-in-the-ground.. He swept you off your feet. It must be nice." She said, unfolding the clothes.
Serena smiled languidly. "Yeah, I guess he did." She said, staring off into space. Then, with a defeated sigh, she felt her anger dwindle. Molly's words had struck something within her. She was right. Darien had swept her off her feet. Well, one way or the other he had. By either his constant dashing, night in shinning armor saves, or his charms. Truly, it was enough to become drunk off of. But, it was still dangerous for her.
She had told Molly that they ad been dating for a while, but it was a lie. So, what was she feeling then? She couldn't explain it. Didn't want to dissect it. She didn't want to see the obvious feelings. Past lives, dreams, familiar touches, kisses, "Damn.." Serena moaned dejectedly. She felt like she was still a teenager. Having a pathetic crush on some boy who she knew was far too out of her league. But Darien wasn't out of her league; although from just looking at him she would assume him to be.
Truth be told, she believed if she let on that she felt anything remotely to what he felt, in terms of the passion she knew was simmering below the surface, he would more than willingly take all she had to offer. Everything. Her heart, her mind, her.....body. Serena gulped, and fell on her side onto her bed. Curling into a fetal position ,she felt Molly gently smooth her hair "Something wrong Rena?" she asked.
Serena shook her head slightly. She didn't want to talk, too afraid that she might sputter some of the thoughts swimming around in her head. Instead, she just layed there. Darien had taken over her whole life without her even really realizing it.
Glancing at Molly briefly, she was reminded of what a danger she was to her. The bump on her head now turning slightly yellow. 'What am I gonna do.' Serena thought. She now had no life. Nothing. She was gong to be stuck with just going to school, then back to Darien's. But that wasn't a way to live. Afraid all the time. Paranoid.
"I talked to Andrew." Came Molly's voice. Serena blinked to rid herself of her thoughts, "Huh?" she asked. Molly smiled down at her friend. "Well, he's coming back." She said. Serena sat up.
"What? What do you mean?" she asked, rubbing her eyes with her fingertips. "Well, I was talking to him on my cell phone outside. He was blabbering something about his girlfriend here, and how she broke up with him cause he was too far away. Long distance, blah, blah, blah. So he's driving from Houston, back to here. What a douche." Molly said, laughing and throwing her head back. "Explain to me how that's funny." Serena said smirking. Molly rolled her eyes, "Oh come on. We both can't stand Rita. It's a blessing if you ask me. And just the thought of Andrew flying back to Houston, just to travel seven hours back here? Come on, this has got to be one of the stupidest things he has ever done." She said laughing. Serena bit her bottom lip. "Yeah, I guess it has to be." She said. "Damn straight. So, anyway, I told him we'd go out tomorrow night. Ya know, cheer him up. Because I hear from certain sources, the reason Rita dumped him is because she's a bit on the hefty side." Molly said.
Serena raised an eyebrow, "What?" she asked. Molly's eyes widened, "Serena. She has nine months off." She said. Serena's jaw dropped. "Yeah, and it isn't Andrews. Stupid whore's been cheating on him. Big surprise right?" she said smiling. Serena shook her head. "Oh my god." She grumbled. "Yeah, well, anyway, that's her problem, not his. So, we're gonna go out for a night on the town tomorrow, and get him completely trashed." She said cheerfully. Serenas eyes went wide.
"And who is we?" she asked. Molly huffed, "Serena, don't tell me you're not coming." She said. Serena shook her head. "Na, no, no. I have things to do. Besides, it's a Wednesday night tomorrow. And we both have school." She said.
Getting off the bed, Molly went into the bathroom to change. "Oh please. Like you've never called in sick to school because you had a hangover." She said. "Wow, this bathroom is huge!" Came Molly's echoing voice. Serena got up, and started searching for her own pajamas. "I know Mol, but, there's other things too." She said, finding a pair of maroon pants and white shirt.
"And why is that?" Molly asked, leaning against the door post of the bathroom. Serena sighed, "I just don't think I should go out is all." She replied, rummaging through her drawers to find something to put her hair up with. "Bull. I think Darien doesn't think you should. That's what I think." She said. Finding a rubber band, Serena huffed. "Molly, please. Leave him out of this ok." She said.
Molly sighed, "Ok then. I will, but only if you tell me he has no influence in your decision what so ever." She said pointedly, crossing her arms over her chest. Serena slumped her shoulders. Of coarse Darien had something to do with her decision. When didn't he? Her life now revolved around him. Whether she wanted it to or not. But then the thought of her life actually not having him in it, made her feel a loss. A profound loss to be exact.
Sighing, she shook her head. "He has no influence ok? Now, lets get ready for bed." She said, walking past Molly, and into the bathroom. "Alrighty then. Tomorrow night, we're steppin out." Molly said, rubbing her palms together. 'Dear God. I can smell the trouble I'm about to get into.' Serena thought to herself. Wednesday night was gonna be hell.
Lying awake in bed that night, with a snoring Molly beside her, Serena stared out the window. There was no moon. It was too dark. Sighing, she shifted her head in her pillow. 'Serena' It was a very subtly voice, but it was there. And she knew it was Darien. Rolling her eyes, then closing them, she shunned him from her mind. Putting up a mental wall. 'Serena, I want to comfort you love. Remember, I'm always offering.' Snapping her eyes open again, Serena took a deep breath, 'I know you're offering. But this time, I'm not going to take it. Because I have nothing to repay you with.'
'You need not repay me Serena. I ask nothing of you, except that you open your soul to me. What are you afraid of?' Sensing that particular part of his thought, she shut her mind of completely. She knew very well what she was afraid of. She was afraid of becoming his. Becoming everything he knew, and wanted her to be. She wasn't ready. She knew what her dream had told her. But to accept it, that was something completely different. She wasn't in too deep if she didn't accept it. She still retained some of her old self.
'Sleep tight' was the last thought that was sent through her mind before sleep found her.
*The morning introduced pure white light into her room, which woke both her and Molly with similar annoyance. Though, they managed to get up, and get ready without getting on each others nerves too much. As for the rest of the day though, that was a blur. Serena couldn't concentrate, and people seemed more like ghosts to her rather than flesh and blood. Any time someone tried to talk to her, she'd simply brush past them, barely acknowledging their presence. 'Maybe I'm the one who's the ghost' she thought bemusedly, continuing her daily routine.
Dragging herself on, she finally reached the end of the day by finding her body placed in it's usual seat in Mr. Robinson's class. Paper was scattered all over her desk, as she tried to reorganize a bit before he entered the room. Though, she was just about to give up when she felt something that took her mind off work completely.
It started the center of her back. A small burning sensation slowly etched its way up her spine to her neck and shoulder, then down to disappear before reaching where her jeans enclosed her waist.
Rotating her shoulders quickly, Serena turned in her seat to look behind her. People lingered at the top of the stairs, and in desks, but no one she really knew. Rubbing her neck with a hand, she sighed. "get it together." she whispered to herself before facing forward again.
"Hey Serena.." "Ahh!" Serena jumped, snapping her head to the right to see Molly sitting there with a smirk on her face. "Whats a matter? You're a little jumpy today." She said smirking
Grabbing a magazine she had rolled up in her backpack, Serena began to bash Molly's shoulder with it. "Hey, hey calm down." She said laughing and grabbing the weapon from her friend.
Serena grunted, and rested her back to the seat with a thud. "Don't scare me like that." She said, scanning the area around her. Molly just laughed and unfolded the Magazine. "Hmm, this is a youth Magazine Serena. What are you doing with it?" she asked raising an eyebrow at the cover which said, 'How to look great for your man.'
Eyeing Molly, Serena huffed and grabbed the magazine away from her. She remembered earlier that day that the magazine was one that she had chosen to do a random figure drawing from. "Oh shut up Molly. It was for art class today ok." She said, stuffing it into her backpack. Molly just smiled, "Slow your roll Rena. It's cool. I don't care if you're trying to look your best for Darien." She said.
Serena rolled her eyes. "Anyway though Rena, I wouldn't worry too much about looking great for him anyway. We're going out tonight remember? And he's not invited. So he's not gonna be around to declare his opinion about how you look. So, don't worry about him catching you at your worst or anything. Ok?" She said.
Serena slumped in her seat. "Molly, you're lucky to even have my presence tonight, so are you now saying that you think I look tacky when I go out?" she asked, filing her papers into neat stack on her desk.
Molly laughed, "No you don't look tacky Serena." She said groaning and rolling her head around. "You're just not as good looking as I Am." She finished, finally stopping her heads rotation to look at her friend. "Laughing, Molly adjusted her seated position, and took out her books for the class. "Yeah, yeah. Whatever. Let's just do our thing tonight, so I can then go home and be yelled at." Serena said, sitting back up.
"Huh?" Moll asked. She wasn't really paying attention. Serena just shook her head and ran her fingers through her hair. "Never mind.." She said, watching the front of the room.
She silently wondered where her teacher was. He was usually late arriving to class, but never that late. Looking at her watch, she saw it was 5:30. "Where do you think he is?" Serena asked, poking Molly in the ribs.
Molly flinched and looked up at her friend, then to the front of the room. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe he's sick or something." She said. Serena looked around the room once more. "Yeah, maybe." She replied, biting her bottom lip.
"Bang!" a loud noise echoed through the room as Serena watched a frazzled Mr. Robinson stumble in through the double doors. In his hands was a large, white, cardboard box. With quick strides, he walked to his desk and placed it on the top, where he opened it and started to flip through files.
Raising an eyebrow, Serena looked towards her friend. Molly just shrugged her shoulders.
Mr. Robinson started pulling out large file folders out from the box, when he suddenly stopped to look up at a room full of surprised students. Laughing nervously, he stopped what he was doing, and ran a hand through his messy brown hair. "Uh,...class dismissed." He said smiling a large smile.
Throwing the files back into the box, he suddenly hefted it up into his arms again and disappeared into his office, leaving everyone to look around at each other.
Serena, though thinking that his actions were odd, didn't seem to mind the fact class was canceled. So she stood up and started to gather her things. Molly did the same as well, and soon enough, everyone was packing to leave.
Walking up the stairs, Serena noticed that the odd feeling she had still lingered. Looking at Molly, her brows furrowed. "What's wrong?" Molly asked, adjusting her backpack strap on her shoulder. Serena just shrugged, "Nothing, never mind, let's go." She said.
Leaving the building, Serena wondered what exactly she had to endure the rest of the night. She knew she'd be in trouble with Darien. Though she had told Chad to not pick her up, she hadn't mentioned it to Darien. Hell, she hadn't even seen him since the night before. But she figured he'd have a least some inkling that she wouldn't be returning to his home until much later.
That's why as soon as she stepped out from the double doors, she was hardly surprised to see Darien standing there, leaning against the car in a casual fashion looking just as striking as ever. "Damn.." Serena whispered to herself. She was sure that it was too early for him to be out, being that the sun had just not to long before.
Molly had heard her friends sudden intake of breath and silent curse, so she decided to take charge a bit, "Hey Darien, so good to see you. Whatcha doin here? Serena's hanging with me tonight." She said, smiling brilliantly, and walking down the steps to put herself between her friend and him.
Darien smiled back, "Is that so. I wasn't aware." He said. Molly flushed a bit. 'Mann, I know Molly's tough, but she's not blind. Damn, she hasn't a thread of hope against him.' Serena thought, groaning. 'I would agree love.' Darien replied mentally, mocking her.
"Oh shut up!" Serena said out loud, crossing her arms. Molly looked back up at her friend, "Huh?" she asked. "Who you talking to?" Serena just rolled her eyes and walked down the steps to the sidewalk. "Come on Molly, let's go." Serena said, grabbing her friends wrists and pulling her along down the sidewalk.
"Oh Serena, I do believe we should talk a moment." Came Darien's sweeping voice. Groaning, Serena stopped and turned to look at Molly. "I'll meet you at the car." She said, shoving Molly along ahead of her. "Sure." Molly said, walking along, with brief glances behind her. "But don't be too long. We have to pick up Andrew." She said while walking backwards. Turning around then, Molly broke into a mild run, and turned at the street corner.
"Who's Andrew?" Came a gruff voice from right behind her. Screeching, Serena jumped and turned around. "Damn it Darien! I swear, could you stop that. You're driving me insane!" She said stepping away from him.
But her steps were prohibited when arms snaked around her waist, and pulled her tight to him. "Who's Andrew?" He growled. The question didn't seem as angry as much as it was seductively demanding.
Gulping, Serenas eyes as well as her mind, went blank. Until a dangerous thought crept into her head. Smirking then, she sighed, "He's an old boyfriend who's still in love with me. And who asked me out a couple of weeks ago. I said yes, and Molly's coming with me to chaperone. Cause she knows my tendencies and all, when I'm around him." Darien's face showed no emotion.
She wasn't sure if she had struck a cord within him or not. He was always a hard person to read. Though, the sudden upturning corners of his mouth showed her the signs that she was not being taken very seriously. "Your tendencies Serena?" he asked chuckling. Serena huffed. "I know your tendencies better than you. And I know that you're more inclined to share my bed, than this Andrews." He said.
Gasping, Serena tried to push him away, but his hold refused, "You're twisted." She said. He laughed, "Am I? Or are you just shocked that I would say such a thing to you in public?" he asked. "Oh please. I've had men say worse things to me then that. But you're off to think I'd ever.......Will you just let me go already!" Serena said, trying to unhook his hold. Darien only laughed again, resting his forehead against her own. "Serena..you're so bashful. I know you too well. And I also know you're untouched." He said smiling.
Hearing that, Serena stopped her struggling. "Excuse me?" she asked, eyes wide in shock. "I believe you understood every word Serena." Darien said, whispering huskily to her. "The thing is though, I have the kind of knowledge about you no one knows about. Even you. But I'm sure I can easily bring that back to memory. Like I said, I know your tendencies better than you. I hardly believe that this Andrew character has any idea how loud you moan when placed in certain positions." He said.
Eyes wide in disbelief, Serena chocked on her words. Blushing furiously, she stammered, "You..I....how..you need to..." "Shh, shh Serena. Leave your breathlessness for later. As for now, I believe we have the matter of tonight unsettled."
Stopping her stammering, Serena tried to push away the thoughts of her and Darien in bed, and instead to focus. He was too ensnaring. A sentence from him had her shaking, and for some reason, this impaired her logic and rationalization skills. She should have been infuriated, seething, but she wasn't. And that bothered her beyond all belief.
"Well, if you would let me go, I think I would be better to handle the situation." She said through clenched teeth. Smiling, Darien leaned his head away from her own. "Am I 'impairing' you that much?" he asked, plucking the word from her mind. "oh.." she huffed, finally being let lose.
Adjusting her coat, she cleared her throat, "Ok, look, I have had a rough day. Not to mention night..." She said, remembering her anger, "And I need some release. I can't stay in your house forever."
Eyeing her up and down, Darien seemed to be contemplating something. "And I don't need your permission to go out either Darien!" she snapped at him. Darien's frame of mind, nor his expression changed. "Hmm, you don't?" he asked, tilting his head slightly to the side. "Yeah." She replied. Darien grinned, "Well, I don't think it's a good idea." He said. Serena rolled her eyes, "Gee, who would of though..."
"Look Serena, you're asking for a night out on the town with no protection at all. How can I allow that?" he asked. Serna crossed her arms, "I don't see what the big deal is. I'm not protected at your house either. So I guess I'm screwed anyway." She said a bit angrily. "Serena, Molly was attacked, not.." "Yeah? Well it could have just as easily been me." She interjected.
Groaning slightly with impatience, Darien took a step towards her. "Serena, it's too dangerous. Don't you understand?" he asked. Serena shrugged her shoulders, "Well what are you gonna do about it? I believe Molly is waiting for me, and I told her I'd be going with her no matter what. So, what are your plans? To tag around and follow me?" she asked, though sensing uncertain doom in asking.
Grinning, Darien flipped his coat back to put his hands in his pant pockets. "I do believe that's a good idea." He said smugly. Moaning, Serena turned around in a circle. "Why did I have a feeling you were gonna say that?" she asked. Darien chuckled. "Shall I follow you to Molly's house then?" he asked nonchalantly.
Huffing, Serena rubbed her temples with her fingers. "Fine, whatever. Just don't be too much of a bother." She said, turning around to walk away. "Can I not get a moment peace?" she asked herself, walking down the side walk. 'No, you can't' she heard the sentence float through her mind. 'I said quite that!'
Darien had followed her in his car back to Molly's house. He was sure that winning Molly over to his side wouldn't be a problem, but he had to get to her first before Serena. Which was a luxury he didn't have. So Serena sat with a peeved Molly in the car, listening to her spout out all the reasons why he shouldn't be going with them. That was until they had finally reached her house, where he was able to work his magic, and be the object of her praise, rather than her anger.
Getting ready, Serena looked over her outfit that she layed out on Molly's bed. She left her clubbing clothes at Molly's place because she always ended up getting ready there, and sleeping off her buzz there afterwards. "You don't think it's too much do you?" Serena asked while looking down at her clothes. Molly stuck her head out of the bathroom, and raised an eyebrow. "What?" she asked, laughing a bit. 'Serena, that's nothing. Why has Darien got you all worked up for?" she asked. Serena glared at her friend, "Why do you think?" she asked, tired of her friends mood towards her walking demise. "Serena, he's your boyfriend. And I think, by the way he looks at you that is, that he'd love you if you wore a potato sack." She said, her dead disappearing back into the bathroom.
Looking down at her clothes again, Serena sighed. "I know he'd love me if I was wearing just a potato sack. But that's because it's close to me wearing absolutely nothing." Serena said, running a hand through her hair. "Huh? You say something Rena?" Molly asked, her head popping out of the bathroom again.
Looking up, Serena shook her head, "No, nothing. I'm gonna get changed." She said . Molly smiled, and disappeared again. Looking at the shut bedroom door, Serena walked to it, and pressed her ear against it. "Wonder if he's listening to us." She asked herself quietly.
Shaking her head, Serena groaned. She knew he wasn't, he wasn't that kind of guy. Sure, he could be a pain, but he really was a decent guy, despite certain words and innuendos. Changing her clothes, Serena only hoped that the night would bring happiness, instead of attacks and unconsciousness. But then again, how could it if Darien was with her? Suddenly, going out with him didn't seem half bad. Maybe he wouldn't be that big a bother. And there was always a chance of him not being a bother at all.
Stepping out of the hallway, Molly smiled as she spotted Darien sitting on her couch. "Serena will be just a minute longer." She said, adjusting her shirt a little. She wore a tight, black, v-neck sweater and hip hugger jeans, with black ankle boots that had a thin heel.
Nodding, Darien only smiled at her, when he spotted Serena walking down the hallway. Stopping his slight head movement, he stared at her. Smoothing down the shirt she wore, Serena wasn't catching the heated look that Darien was giving her. "Molly, we still picking up Andrew?" she asked, entering the living room, and walking into the living room. "Yeah, we still are." Molly said smiling.
Looking up at Darien, Serena froze. The look on his face matched no other she had seen before. He stared at her so intimately, she could have sworn she were naked. She was wearing black leather pants that hugged her hips and showed her figure nicely; Along with a v-neck, white, clingy three quarter shirt. Her boots were black, with a two inch heel, but were modest and thick heeled. Unlike Molly's uncomfortable taste In shoes.
Looking at the both of them, Molly cleared her throat. "Hey, hey you guys, you ready to go?" she asked them loudly. Looking up, Serena cleared her throat, "Um, yeah." She said. Molly nodded, "Ok then, let's go. I bet Andrew is wondering where we are." She said. Serena nodded in reply. "Yeah, let's go."
Looking at Darien, she saw he his stare hadn't changed. In fact, he hadn't even budged. "Uh, you ready?" she asked, trying to get him to respond in some way. But the way he did didn't make her feel any more comfortable. He stood, and walked to her, standing right in front of her, his facial expression didn't change.
Leaving his head down, he planted a small kiss in her cheek, right next to her ear, "You look absolutely gorgeous. I believe my job tonight will not be so easy." He whispered.
Feeling his hot breath against her, she wavered a bit before he pulled away. Gulping, she smiled, "Uh, thanks.." She said. Taking a deep breath, she walked around him, and to the door where she noticed Molly was waiting. "Now that was hot and heavy." Molly whispered as she opened the door for Serena. Glancing at her friend, Serena blushed, knowing full well the night was going to be interesting indeed.
After picking Andrew up, and introducing him to Darien, he began to unknowingly drone on about his beloved Rita, with casual questions about Serena health inserted in between. "You doin okay Serena? Molly told me about your disappearance." He said. Serena smiled, "Oh yeah, I just went to Darien's, that's all." She replied, patting Darien's leg; an act that caused him to give her a look that made her blush. Apparently riding in the backseat of a small car with Darien, was not the best idea.
Finding a parking spot, Serena felt the energy of the town surround her. Something she hadn't truly felt in a while. Not without fear at least. But now, fear was hardly a concern. With Darien around, she felt completely at ease. Feeling an arm drape around her shoulders, she looked up and to her right to see Darien smiling down at her. Smiling back, she couldn't help but walk just a little bit closer to him, or place an arm around his middle. Honestly, she wondered how the man could be so wanted, and yet, so...well, did she want to say unwanted? Did she want to wish that she had never met him? Nah, nah,...she wouldn't say or wish that. She couldn't decide, so, she figured why dwell on it? She was far to intoxicated by him to care.
Finding the club, Serena and Molly were the first ones to enter, followed by Darien, then Andrew. Hearing the Rock music pulse through the place, Serena and Molly began to smile and laugh, reminiscing on times passed.
"Molly and I come hear often, and this is the best place to really lose yourself." Serena shouted over the music as she followed Molly and Andrew to a booth away from the dance floor. Darien nodded and smiled.
Sitting down at the booth, Molly and Andrew sat by one another on one side, while Darien and Serena sat on the other side. Darien sitting on the edge. Watching the waitress approach the booth while eyeing Darien up and down, Serena fidgeted and glared at her. "Can I get you guys a drink?" she asked, looking mainly at Darien. Andrew and Molly order something incoherent to Serenas ears, as she watched the slut of a waitress size up her man. "You sir?" she asked Darien, bating her eyelashes and smiling brightly. Serena rolled her eyes and looked at Molly who was also noticing the sorry act that was going on. 'Bleach blond whore' Molly mouthed to Serena.
Laughing, Serena looked back to the pathetic scene unfolding. "I don't believe I'll have anything. I'm not thirsty for a drink at all." he said, looking at Serena while wrapping an arm around her waist and sliding her across the vinyl seat, closer to him. Serena blushed, and looked up at a glaring waitress. "You?" she asked. Serena smirked, "Nothing for me." She said. The waitress smiled sarcastically, and turned, walking away.
"Ha ha, what a slut." Molly said. Laughing. Serena wasn't looking at her friend though. Instead, she was staring into Darien's eyes. "Not thirsty?" she asked, implying the question whether he had fed or not. He smiled. "Not yet." He replied.
Hearing the familiar guitar riff of STP's Secret Garden on the radio, Serena looked at Molly, "Hey hey! They're playing our song. Ready Moll?" Serena asked smiling. Molly nodded. "Hell yeah. Move Andrew." She said, shoving him a little. "Ya know, Rita had hair like that." He said. "Andrew!? Shut up! Rita was a red head ya moron. And you're much better off without her. Now move your butt." Molly said. Sighing, Andrew got up to let Molly out.
Scooting over to Darien a bit more than what was required, Serena waited for him to move. "Where are you going?" he asked. Serena tilted her head to one side. "To dance. But I can't if you're blocking the way there guy." She said laughing. "Come on Rena." Molly said. Looking pointedly at Darien, he gave a slight frown before getting up.
"Alright, let's hit the dance floor." Molly said, grabbing Serenas arms. "We'll be back guys, don't go anywhere." Serena said, looking straight at Darien. Darien gave her a melting smile. "Don't worry." She mouthed to him. He only winked in reply. Feeling her heart race, Serena finally took off with Molly to the dance floor.
Feeling the charge of the words, Serena felt unusually entranced by them. Dancing with sways of her hips and snake like motions of her spine, she felt great. Renewed. She was safe and secure, untouchable in every aspect. Feeling a sudden presence behind her, she noticed a guy was dancing with her. He was attractive, but not her type. He had auburn hair and green eyes. Laughing though, she barely gave him any notice. She just wanted to dance. Feeling his hands on her hips, she tugged them off, and moved as much as she could from him. Though he didn't seem to give up.
Pressing against her and whispering words in her ear, she only shook her head no and pushed him away. Looking at her friend, Molly seemed to notice her dilemma, and stepped in between the two. Though, he suddenly pushed her out of the way, and walked right up to Serena. Grabbing her wrist and pulling her to him she shrieked, but no one heard her over the music. "I know you pain. What you want. Come with me." He said huskily. Serenas eyes went wide, and she tried to pull away, but it didn't seem to work. "His grip was strong. Too strong." "What? What are you talking about?" she asked. He smiled devilishly. "Please. You are so beautiful and lovely. What it is that you need, is what I can give." He said. Serena rolled her eyes, and scanned around for Molly, beginning to feel frightened.
Though her need of a savior came in a different form. In the form of a large dark haired man who seemed to always be there when needed. "You." Darien said sternly, grabbing the mans shoulder. Turning around, the mans eye went wide. "You!" Darien said again in surprise.
The red haired man smirked. "Oh, well look who it is, so glad to see you found her Darien...."
******************************************************************* Hi hi. Well, ten is finally out. So, so, so, sorry for the delay. My computer crashed. Yes, it CRASHED. And when this thing crashes, it takes a freaking eternity to get it workin. Some of you know of my computer dilemma already, so you understand, but those who don't, so sorry! My editor was nice enough to let me get on her computer to check out some things on other websites though. Ok, anyway, that's enough for me. I can't promise when ch. 11 will be out. But sooner than ch. 10, I can assure. Well, gotta go. Ciao for now-Twigs
P.S. My E-mail account was closed, cause I got rid of AOL. But you can reach me at Zenobia@sailormoon.com. Those of you that have e-mailed me, sorry I can't reply! But e-mail again. ^.^
Stepping out into his driveway, Darien stood calmly, scanning the surrounding night with his eyes while sniffing the air briefly. Turning his gaze to Serena, he frowned.
Serena, sweeping around to stare at him, untangled her hands from her hair. "Darien." she cried, running to him. Gripping the front of his suit, she gritted her teeth, "Darien, where is she?" she bit out, frantic. Darien took her hands that grasped his clothing, "Serena, calm down.." he stated. Serena screamed in frustration, refusing the let her hold on him go. "You told me I would be SAFE HERE! That this was the safest place for me to be g'DAMNIT! Do you remember telling me that Darien!? DO YOU!" she yelled at him. Pulling her hands away from him, he held them tightly in his own, "Serena, I told you this was the safest place for you. And I meant it. Though, Molly is a completely different story." He said.
Serena gaped at him, eyes going wide, and pulled her hands from him. Stepping back, she rubbed her palms together, growling in frustration. "So sorry Darien. I didn't consider that you'd never think to include my best Fri..damn it, my SISITER!" she yelled, tears rolling down her face. Turning around once more, Serena looked about the wide spance of lawn, trying to find any sign of where she could have gone, or could have been taken. "You may not care about her, or anything about my life outside of this town, but I do." She growled angrily.
Searching to her left, Serena decided to take action, and took off. Running full speed, she had no idea where she was going. "Molly!" she cried as she ran. Though, she never got any answer. "Molly!" she yelled again, but still nothing.
Covering a long distance quickly across neatly kept grass and small flower beds, Serena found herself on the edge of a large area of woods. Gasping, she looked into the darkness lingering between each tree. It was pitch black. "Molly?" she called out in a shaky voice, feeling a bad chill run down her spine. Panting from the run, she realized she had no clue what she was doing. It didn't look like anyone could of cut through the woods. But where else could she have gone? No other place seemed like such a great hiding place. "Molly.." Serena cried in a small voice.
Looking around briefly, she didn't know what to do. Darien was of no help, and that bothered her immensely. He seemed to care about nothing else but her. Literally.
Deciding that whatever choice she made would probably turn out bad, she took a step into the woods, when she found herself frozen. She couldn't move. Something was holding onto the back of her shirt, enabling her from going any further.
Gulping, she turned her head around slowly to see what exactly held her. Jumping when her eyes locked onto a pair of hazel ones. "Oh my god!" she yelped. Shaking, Serena covered her mouth with her hand, and closed her eyes. "Oh god, Dave...it's you." She said in relief. Dave chuckled, "Are you sure you want to go running off into the woods at such an hour?" he asked in his deep voice. Serena opened her eyes, and dropped her hand to her side. "I don't know." She chocked out, holding back tears, "Molly....Molly, she's gone, and..." "Shh, shh Serena. It's alright. Darien has her back at the manor." He said. Serenas jaw dropped, "What?" she asked. Dave smiled, and released his hold on her. "Yes, he found her lying next to the fountain, not fifty feet from where the both of you stood." He said.
Serena faltered in a step from her disbelief. "She's, she's ok?" she asked. Dave nodded, "Looks like it. Now come, we'll both see to her." He said, prompting an arms towards her. Serena sniffled, and looked at it. Fear for her friend was no longer burning in her system. Instead, an angry fire did. Something that consumed her. Anger about what she had been through, her wounds, her situation, Darien, vampires, and now, add the fact Molly was once again attacked in her presence. She couldn't keep her friend safe. She couldn't keep anyone safe. She was a danger to be around. What good was she to anyone?
"No, no I'm fine, I'll just walk there.." Serena mumbled, engrossed in thought.
Walking with heavy steps over his manicured lawn, Serena absently chewed on her thumb nail. It was a further walk than it was a run.
Finally reaching the front door of the manor, Serena dejectedly placed her hand on the knob. She was angry all right, but it was subdued. Too subdued for her own good. She felt broken. Numb. She had no idea if she had a right to yell at Darien, or not. She just needed to see Molly first. To know if she was really alright.
Entering the house, she walked into the Foyer, feeling the presence of Dave behind her. Molly was lying on the couch, eyes closed in unconsciousness. Serena moaned in defeat. Yet again, Molly was hurt. But this time, it was her fault. She had brought her friend to Darien's house, invited her into the abnormal.
Crouching down beside her friend, she patted her hand as she cried silently. She looked alright, only having a small bruise where she new a bump would surface, on her forehead. But Serena was caught up in her own sorrow. She was now unfit to be around anyone. "She'll be alright." She heard Darien speaking from somewhere off to her left, but didn't acknowledge him. She was too much involved in her own thoughts.
"Serena.." She felt him walk to her, and gently grab her forearm to pull her up. But feeling his touch, she violently pulled out of his hold. She now fully felt her anger. Brushing a few strands of Molly's hair from her eyes, she watched her flinch suddenly, and her eyes shoot open.
Gasping, Molly looked around frantically, before looking straight at Serena. "What happened?" she asked panting. Serena smiled sadly. "You.....you fell and hit your head. You were, outside. I guess, you lost your balance or something." She said. Groaning comically, as she usually did, Molly touched her hand to her head. "Oh, I'm gonna feel this tomorrow." She said grinning. Serena sighed, and changed from her crouching position to sit on the floor. "You ok?" she asked, drying her tears with the backs of her hands.
Molly sat up slowly, Shaking her head a little. "Yeah, just a little headache is all. Nothing to worry about. You know me." She said, shutting her eyes tight and reopening them. Looking at her friend she cocked her head to one side, "You alright?" she asked quizzically. Serena laughed a bit. "Yeah, yeah I'm fine."
Molly looked around the room, to see Darien standing behind Serena. "Sorry to be such a bother. But I gotta say it's more common for Serena to have klutz attacks more than I." She said grinning.
Darien smirked. It was a minimal show of humor on his part, but a gorgeous act that made Molly clear her throat and look back at her placid friend. Frowning, she shook her, "Serena, I'm fine. What's wrong?" she asked.
Serena shook her head. "Nothing. Just..nothing. Come on, I think you'll wanna stay here tonight. I don't want you going home anyway." She said, standing up. Molly would have argued that she needed to go home, but the look on Serenas face told her otherwise. Her friend was more than just upset, she was angry. Angry at Darien she guessed. But that was something she didn't want to dive into, unless Serena did. In which case, she would completely verbally bash him and sick Andrew on him.
"Alright.." she said, somewhat agreeing with her.
Turning around, Serena saw Darien, standing not a foot in front of her. Many thoughts were running through his head. She could feel them. But she didn't want to think about them, or even him. She just wanted to leave. She wanted to gather she scattered pieces of herself, just, to be.
Helping her friend off the sofa, She led Molly to her room. "I know there are plenty of rooms in the house. But it'll make me feel better if you just stayed in mine along with me." She said, walking through her doorway. Looking around, Molly smiled. "This is really nice. So..you and Darien aren't sharing a room then?" she asked, putting her hands in her back pockets and wiggling her eyebrows. Serena laughed. A real, genuine laugh. "Hardly.." she said, going through her drawers to find Molly some pajamas. Thankfully they were the same size. "So, what are you too sharing then.." She asked. Sitting on her bed.
Serena turned around, holding a pajama set in her hand, "Scuse me?" she asked incredulously, throwing the clothes at her. Molly laughed, catching them. "Ya heard me. What are you two sharing them. Common interest Serena. You don't seem have any obviously apparent ones. I mean, you're so down to earth, and he seems so..extravagant." She said, glancing around the room. Serena put her hands on her hips. Had it come from anyone else, Serena would have been mad at what was said. But Molly and her were so close, that bluntness was typical. Sighing, Serena ran her fingers through her hair. "I know." She said, walking to the other side of the bed to sit down.
"Then, how do you guys click?" she asked. Looking around the room, Serena shrugged her shoulders. She wasn't prepared for a line of questioning. Although, she knew she should have been. "I don't know Mol. I guess, I guess it's that we seem to be on the same wave-length. He can be the devil sometimes, but, he's too charming. He's sweet to me even when I'm a complete bi....well, jerk." she said smiling. Molly grinned widely, "Ahh, I see. So Miss, my-feet-are-firmly-planted-in-the-ground.. He swept you off your feet. It must be nice." She said, unfolding the clothes.
Serena smiled languidly. "Yeah, I guess he did." She said, staring off into space. Then, with a defeated sigh, she felt her anger dwindle. Molly's words had struck something within her. She was right. Darien had swept her off her feet. Well, one way or the other he had. By either his constant dashing, night in shinning armor saves, or his charms. Truly, it was enough to become drunk off of. But, it was still dangerous for her.
She had told Molly that they ad been dating for a while, but it was a lie. So, what was she feeling then? She couldn't explain it. Didn't want to dissect it. She didn't want to see the obvious feelings. Past lives, dreams, familiar touches, kisses, "Damn.." Serena moaned dejectedly. She felt like she was still a teenager. Having a pathetic crush on some boy who she knew was far too out of her league. But Darien wasn't out of her league; although from just looking at him she would assume him to be.
Truth be told, she believed if she let on that she felt anything remotely to what he felt, in terms of the passion she knew was simmering below the surface, he would more than willingly take all she had to offer. Everything. Her heart, her mind, her.....body. Serena gulped, and fell on her side onto her bed. Curling into a fetal position ,she felt Molly gently smooth her hair "Something wrong Rena?" she asked.
Serena shook her head slightly. She didn't want to talk, too afraid that she might sputter some of the thoughts swimming around in her head. Instead, she just layed there. Darien had taken over her whole life without her even really realizing it.
Glancing at Molly briefly, she was reminded of what a danger she was to her. The bump on her head now turning slightly yellow. 'What am I gonna do.' Serena thought. She now had no life. Nothing. She was gong to be stuck with just going to school, then back to Darien's. But that wasn't a way to live. Afraid all the time. Paranoid.
"I talked to Andrew." Came Molly's voice. Serena blinked to rid herself of her thoughts, "Huh?" she asked. Molly smiled down at her friend. "Well, he's coming back." She said. Serena sat up.
"What? What do you mean?" she asked, rubbing her eyes with her fingertips. "Well, I was talking to him on my cell phone outside. He was blabbering something about his girlfriend here, and how she broke up with him cause he was too far away. Long distance, blah, blah, blah. So he's driving from Houston, back to here. What a douche." Molly said, laughing and throwing her head back. "Explain to me how that's funny." Serena said smirking. Molly rolled her eyes, "Oh come on. We both can't stand Rita. It's a blessing if you ask me. And just the thought of Andrew flying back to Houston, just to travel seven hours back here? Come on, this has got to be one of the stupidest things he has ever done." She said laughing. Serena bit her bottom lip. "Yeah, I guess it has to be." She said. "Damn straight. So, anyway, I told him we'd go out tomorrow night. Ya know, cheer him up. Because I hear from certain sources, the reason Rita dumped him is because she's a bit on the hefty side." Molly said.
Serena raised an eyebrow, "What?" she asked. Molly's eyes widened, "Serena. She has nine months off." She said. Serena's jaw dropped. "Yeah, and it isn't Andrews. Stupid whore's been cheating on him. Big surprise right?" she said smiling. Serena shook her head. "Oh my god." She grumbled. "Yeah, well, anyway, that's her problem, not his. So, we're gonna go out for a night on the town tomorrow, and get him completely trashed." She said cheerfully. Serenas eyes went wide.
"And who is we?" she asked. Molly huffed, "Serena, don't tell me you're not coming." She said. Serena shook her head. "Na, no, no. I have things to do. Besides, it's a Wednesday night tomorrow. And we both have school." She said.
Getting off the bed, Molly went into the bathroom to change. "Oh please. Like you've never called in sick to school because you had a hangover." She said. "Wow, this bathroom is huge!" Came Molly's echoing voice. Serena got up, and started searching for her own pajamas. "I know Mol, but, there's other things too." She said, finding a pair of maroon pants and white shirt.
"And why is that?" Molly asked, leaning against the door post of the bathroom. Serena sighed, "I just don't think I should go out is all." She replied, rummaging through her drawers to find something to put her hair up with. "Bull. I think Darien doesn't think you should. That's what I think." She said. Finding a rubber band, Serena huffed. "Molly, please. Leave him out of this ok." She said.
Molly sighed, "Ok then. I will, but only if you tell me he has no influence in your decision what so ever." She said pointedly, crossing her arms over her chest. Serena slumped her shoulders. Of coarse Darien had something to do with her decision. When didn't he? Her life now revolved around him. Whether she wanted it to or not. But then the thought of her life actually not having him in it, made her feel a loss. A profound loss to be exact.
Sighing, she shook her head. "He has no influence ok? Now, lets get ready for bed." She said, walking past Molly, and into the bathroom. "Alrighty then. Tomorrow night, we're steppin out." Molly said, rubbing her palms together. 'Dear God. I can smell the trouble I'm about to get into.' Serena thought to herself. Wednesday night was gonna be hell.
Lying awake in bed that night, with a snoring Molly beside her, Serena stared out the window. There was no moon. It was too dark. Sighing, she shifted her head in her pillow. 'Serena' It was a very subtly voice, but it was there. And she knew it was Darien. Rolling her eyes, then closing them, she shunned him from her mind. Putting up a mental wall. 'Serena, I want to comfort you love. Remember, I'm always offering.' Snapping her eyes open again, Serena took a deep breath, 'I know you're offering. But this time, I'm not going to take it. Because I have nothing to repay you with.'
'You need not repay me Serena. I ask nothing of you, except that you open your soul to me. What are you afraid of?' Sensing that particular part of his thought, she shut her mind of completely. She knew very well what she was afraid of. She was afraid of becoming his. Becoming everything he knew, and wanted her to be. She wasn't ready. She knew what her dream had told her. But to accept it, that was something completely different. She wasn't in too deep if she didn't accept it. She still retained some of her old self.
'Sleep tight' was the last thought that was sent through her mind before sleep found her.
*The morning introduced pure white light into her room, which woke both her and Molly with similar annoyance. Though, they managed to get up, and get ready without getting on each others nerves too much. As for the rest of the day though, that was a blur. Serena couldn't concentrate, and people seemed more like ghosts to her rather than flesh and blood. Any time someone tried to talk to her, she'd simply brush past them, barely acknowledging their presence. 'Maybe I'm the one who's the ghost' she thought bemusedly, continuing her daily routine.
Dragging herself on, she finally reached the end of the day by finding her body placed in it's usual seat in Mr. Robinson's class. Paper was scattered all over her desk, as she tried to reorganize a bit before he entered the room. Though, she was just about to give up when she felt something that took her mind off work completely.
It started the center of her back. A small burning sensation slowly etched its way up her spine to her neck and shoulder, then down to disappear before reaching where her jeans enclosed her waist.
Rotating her shoulders quickly, Serena turned in her seat to look behind her. People lingered at the top of the stairs, and in desks, but no one she really knew. Rubbing her neck with a hand, she sighed. "get it together." she whispered to herself before facing forward again.
"Hey Serena.." "Ahh!" Serena jumped, snapping her head to the right to see Molly sitting there with a smirk on her face. "Whats a matter? You're a little jumpy today." She said smirking
Grabbing a magazine she had rolled up in her backpack, Serena began to bash Molly's shoulder with it. "Hey, hey calm down." She said laughing and grabbing the weapon from her friend.
Serena grunted, and rested her back to the seat with a thud. "Don't scare me like that." She said, scanning the area around her. Molly just laughed and unfolded the Magazine. "Hmm, this is a youth Magazine Serena. What are you doing with it?" she asked raising an eyebrow at the cover which said, 'How to look great for your man.'
Eyeing Molly, Serena huffed and grabbed the magazine away from her. She remembered earlier that day that the magazine was one that she had chosen to do a random figure drawing from. "Oh shut up Molly. It was for art class today ok." She said, stuffing it into her backpack. Molly just smiled, "Slow your roll Rena. It's cool. I don't care if you're trying to look your best for Darien." She said.
Serena rolled her eyes. "Anyway though Rena, I wouldn't worry too much about looking great for him anyway. We're going out tonight remember? And he's not invited. So he's not gonna be around to declare his opinion about how you look. So, don't worry about him catching you at your worst or anything. Ok?" She said.
Serena slumped in her seat. "Molly, you're lucky to even have my presence tonight, so are you now saying that you think I look tacky when I go out?" she asked, filing her papers into neat stack on her desk.
Molly laughed, "No you don't look tacky Serena." She said groaning and rolling her head around. "You're just not as good looking as I Am." She finished, finally stopping her heads rotation to look at her friend. "Laughing, Molly adjusted her seated position, and took out her books for the class. "Yeah, yeah. Whatever. Let's just do our thing tonight, so I can then go home and be yelled at." Serena said, sitting back up.
"Huh?" Moll asked. She wasn't really paying attention. Serena just shook her head and ran her fingers through her hair. "Never mind.." She said, watching the front of the room.
She silently wondered where her teacher was. He was usually late arriving to class, but never that late. Looking at her watch, she saw it was 5:30. "Where do you think he is?" Serena asked, poking Molly in the ribs.
Molly flinched and looked up at her friend, then to the front of the room. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe he's sick or something." She said. Serena looked around the room once more. "Yeah, maybe." She replied, biting her bottom lip.
"Bang!" a loud noise echoed through the room as Serena watched a frazzled Mr. Robinson stumble in through the double doors. In his hands was a large, white, cardboard box. With quick strides, he walked to his desk and placed it on the top, where he opened it and started to flip through files.
Raising an eyebrow, Serena looked towards her friend. Molly just shrugged her shoulders.
Mr. Robinson started pulling out large file folders out from the box, when he suddenly stopped to look up at a room full of surprised students. Laughing nervously, he stopped what he was doing, and ran a hand through his messy brown hair. "Uh,...class dismissed." He said smiling a large smile.
Throwing the files back into the box, he suddenly hefted it up into his arms again and disappeared into his office, leaving everyone to look around at each other.
Serena, though thinking that his actions were odd, didn't seem to mind the fact class was canceled. So she stood up and started to gather her things. Molly did the same as well, and soon enough, everyone was packing to leave.
Walking up the stairs, Serena noticed that the odd feeling she had still lingered. Looking at Molly, her brows furrowed. "What's wrong?" Molly asked, adjusting her backpack strap on her shoulder. Serena just shrugged, "Nothing, never mind, let's go." She said.
Leaving the building, Serena wondered what exactly she had to endure the rest of the night. She knew she'd be in trouble with Darien. Though she had told Chad to not pick her up, she hadn't mentioned it to Darien. Hell, she hadn't even seen him since the night before. But she figured he'd have a least some inkling that she wouldn't be returning to his home until much later.
That's why as soon as she stepped out from the double doors, she was hardly surprised to see Darien standing there, leaning against the car in a casual fashion looking just as striking as ever. "Damn.." Serena whispered to herself. She was sure that it was too early for him to be out, being that the sun had just not to long before.
Molly had heard her friends sudden intake of breath and silent curse, so she decided to take charge a bit, "Hey Darien, so good to see you. Whatcha doin here? Serena's hanging with me tonight." She said, smiling brilliantly, and walking down the steps to put herself between her friend and him.
Darien smiled back, "Is that so. I wasn't aware." He said. Molly flushed a bit. 'Mann, I know Molly's tough, but she's not blind. Damn, she hasn't a thread of hope against him.' Serena thought, groaning. 'I would agree love.' Darien replied mentally, mocking her.
"Oh shut up!" Serena said out loud, crossing her arms. Molly looked back up at her friend, "Huh?" she asked. "Who you talking to?" Serena just rolled her eyes and walked down the steps to the sidewalk. "Come on Molly, let's go." Serena said, grabbing her friends wrists and pulling her along down the sidewalk.
"Oh Serena, I do believe we should talk a moment." Came Darien's sweeping voice. Groaning, Serena stopped and turned to look at Molly. "I'll meet you at the car." She said, shoving Molly along ahead of her. "Sure." Molly said, walking along, with brief glances behind her. "But don't be too long. We have to pick up Andrew." She said while walking backwards. Turning around then, Molly broke into a mild run, and turned at the street corner.
"Who's Andrew?" Came a gruff voice from right behind her. Screeching, Serena jumped and turned around. "Damn it Darien! I swear, could you stop that. You're driving me insane!" She said stepping away from him.
But her steps were prohibited when arms snaked around her waist, and pulled her tight to him. "Who's Andrew?" He growled. The question didn't seem as angry as much as it was seductively demanding.
Gulping, Serenas eyes as well as her mind, went blank. Until a dangerous thought crept into her head. Smirking then, she sighed, "He's an old boyfriend who's still in love with me. And who asked me out a couple of weeks ago. I said yes, and Molly's coming with me to chaperone. Cause she knows my tendencies and all, when I'm around him." Darien's face showed no emotion.
She wasn't sure if she had struck a cord within him or not. He was always a hard person to read. Though, the sudden upturning corners of his mouth showed her the signs that she was not being taken very seriously. "Your tendencies Serena?" he asked chuckling. Serena huffed. "I know your tendencies better than you. And I know that you're more inclined to share my bed, than this Andrews." He said.
Gasping, Serena tried to push him away, but his hold refused, "You're twisted." She said. He laughed, "Am I? Or are you just shocked that I would say such a thing to you in public?" he asked. "Oh please. I've had men say worse things to me then that. But you're off to think I'd ever.......Will you just let me go already!" Serena said, trying to unhook his hold. Darien only laughed again, resting his forehead against her own. "Serena..you're so bashful. I know you too well. And I also know you're untouched." He said smiling.
Hearing that, Serena stopped her struggling. "Excuse me?" she asked, eyes wide in shock. "I believe you understood every word Serena." Darien said, whispering huskily to her. "The thing is though, I have the kind of knowledge about you no one knows about. Even you. But I'm sure I can easily bring that back to memory. Like I said, I know your tendencies better than you. I hardly believe that this Andrew character has any idea how loud you moan when placed in certain positions." He said.
Eyes wide in disbelief, Serena chocked on her words. Blushing furiously, she stammered, "You..I....how..you need to..." "Shh, shh Serena. Leave your breathlessness for later. As for now, I believe we have the matter of tonight unsettled."
Stopping her stammering, Serena tried to push away the thoughts of her and Darien in bed, and instead to focus. He was too ensnaring. A sentence from him had her shaking, and for some reason, this impaired her logic and rationalization skills. She should have been infuriated, seething, but she wasn't. And that bothered her beyond all belief.
"Well, if you would let me go, I think I would be better to handle the situation." She said through clenched teeth. Smiling, Darien leaned his head away from her own. "Am I 'impairing' you that much?" he asked, plucking the word from her mind. "oh.." she huffed, finally being let lose.
Adjusting her coat, she cleared her throat, "Ok, look, I have had a rough day. Not to mention night..." She said, remembering her anger, "And I need some release. I can't stay in your house forever."
Eyeing her up and down, Darien seemed to be contemplating something. "And I don't need your permission to go out either Darien!" she snapped at him. Darien's frame of mind, nor his expression changed. "Hmm, you don't?" he asked, tilting his head slightly to the side. "Yeah." She replied. Darien grinned, "Well, I don't think it's a good idea." He said. Serena rolled her eyes, "Gee, who would of though..."
"Look Serena, you're asking for a night out on the town with no protection at all. How can I allow that?" he asked. Serna crossed her arms, "I don't see what the big deal is. I'm not protected at your house either. So I guess I'm screwed anyway." She said a bit angrily. "Serena, Molly was attacked, not.." "Yeah? Well it could have just as easily been me." She interjected.
Groaning slightly with impatience, Darien took a step towards her. "Serena, it's too dangerous. Don't you understand?" he asked. Serena shrugged her shoulders, "Well what are you gonna do about it? I believe Molly is waiting for me, and I told her I'd be going with her no matter what. So, what are your plans? To tag around and follow me?" she asked, though sensing uncertain doom in asking.
Grinning, Darien flipped his coat back to put his hands in his pant pockets. "I do believe that's a good idea." He said smugly. Moaning, Serena turned around in a circle. "Why did I have a feeling you were gonna say that?" she asked. Darien chuckled. "Shall I follow you to Molly's house then?" he asked nonchalantly.
Huffing, Serena rubbed her temples with her fingers. "Fine, whatever. Just don't be too much of a bother." She said, turning around to walk away. "Can I not get a moment peace?" she asked herself, walking down the side walk. 'No, you can't' she heard the sentence float through her mind. 'I said quite that!'
Darien had followed her in his car back to Molly's house. He was sure that winning Molly over to his side wouldn't be a problem, but he had to get to her first before Serena. Which was a luxury he didn't have. So Serena sat with a peeved Molly in the car, listening to her spout out all the reasons why he shouldn't be going with them. That was until they had finally reached her house, where he was able to work his magic, and be the object of her praise, rather than her anger.
Getting ready, Serena looked over her outfit that she layed out on Molly's bed. She left her clubbing clothes at Molly's place because she always ended up getting ready there, and sleeping off her buzz there afterwards. "You don't think it's too much do you?" Serena asked while looking down at her clothes. Molly stuck her head out of the bathroom, and raised an eyebrow. "What?" she asked, laughing a bit. 'Serena, that's nothing. Why has Darien got you all worked up for?" she asked. Serena glared at her friend, "Why do you think?" she asked, tired of her friends mood towards her walking demise. "Serena, he's your boyfriend. And I think, by the way he looks at you that is, that he'd love you if you wore a potato sack." She said, her dead disappearing back into the bathroom.
Looking down at her clothes again, Serena sighed. "I know he'd love me if I was wearing just a potato sack. But that's because it's close to me wearing absolutely nothing." Serena said, running a hand through her hair. "Huh? You say something Rena?" Molly asked, her head popping out of the bathroom again.
Looking up, Serena shook her head, "No, nothing. I'm gonna get changed." She said . Molly smiled, and disappeared again. Looking at the shut bedroom door, Serena walked to it, and pressed her ear against it. "Wonder if he's listening to us." She asked herself quietly.
Shaking her head, Serena groaned. She knew he wasn't, he wasn't that kind of guy. Sure, he could be a pain, but he really was a decent guy, despite certain words and innuendos. Changing her clothes, Serena only hoped that the night would bring happiness, instead of attacks and unconsciousness. But then again, how could it if Darien was with her? Suddenly, going out with him didn't seem half bad. Maybe he wouldn't be that big a bother. And there was always a chance of him not being a bother at all.
Stepping out of the hallway, Molly smiled as she spotted Darien sitting on her couch. "Serena will be just a minute longer." She said, adjusting her shirt a little. She wore a tight, black, v-neck sweater and hip hugger jeans, with black ankle boots that had a thin heel.
Nodding, Darien only smiled at her, when he spotted Serena walking down the hallway. Stopping his slight head movement, he stared at her. Smoothing down the shirt she wore, Serena wasn't catching the heated look that Darien was giving her. "Molly, we still picking up Andrew?" she asked, entering the living room, and walking into the living room. "Yeah, we still are." Molly said smiling.
Looking up at Darien, Serena froze. The look on his face matched no other she had seen before. He stared at her so intimately, she could have sworn she were naked. She was wearing black leather pants that hugged her hips and showed her figure nicely; Along with a v-neck, white, clingy three quarter shirt. Her boots were black, with a two inch heel, but were modest and thick heeled. Unlike Molly's uncomfortable taste In shoes.
Looking at the both of them, Molly cleared her throat. "Hey, hey you guys, you ready to go?" she asked them loudly. Looking up, Serena cleared her throat, "Um, yeah." She said. Molly nodded, "Ok then, let's go. I bet Andrew is wondering where we are." She said. Serena nodded in reply. "Yeah, let's go."
Looking at Darien, she saw he his stare hadn't changed. In fact, he hadn't even budged. "Uh, you ready?" she asked, trying to get him to respond in some way. But the way he did didn't make her feel any more comfortable. He stood, and walked to her, standing right in front of her, his facial expression didn't change.
Leaving his head down, he planted a small kiss in her cheek, right next to her ear, "You look absolutely gorgeous. I believe my job tonight will not be so easy." He whispered.
Feeling his hot breath against her, she wavered a bit before he pulled away. Gulping, she smiled, "Uh, thanks.." She said. Taking a deep breath, she walked around him, and to the door where she noticed Molly was waiting. "Now that was hot and heavy." Molly whispered as she opened the door for Serena. Glancing at her friend, Serena blushed, knowing full well the night was going to be interesting indeed.
After picking Andrew up, and introducing him to Darien, he began to unknowingly drone on about his beloved Rita, with casual questions about Serena health inserted in between. "You doin okay Serena? Molly told me about your disappearance." He said. Serena smiled, "Oh yeah, I just went to Darien's, that's all." She replied, patting Darien's leg; an act that caused him to give her a look that made her blush. Apparently riding in the backseat of a small car with Darien, was not the best idea.
Finding a parking spot, Serena felt the energy of the town surround her. Something she hadn't truly felt in a while. Not without fear at least. But now, fear was hardly a concern. With Darien around, she felt completely at ease. Feeling an arm drape around her shoulders, she looked up and to her right to see Darien smiling down at her. Smiling back, she couldn't help but walk just a little bit closer to him, or place an arm around his middle. Honestly, she wondered how the man could be so wanted, and yet, so...well, did she want to say unwanted? Did she want to wish that she had never met him? Nah, nah,...she wouldn't say or wish that. She couldn't decide, so, she figured why dwell on it? She was far to intoxicated by him to care.
Finding the club, Serena and Molly were the first ones to enter, followed by Darien, then Andrew. Hearing the Rock music pulse through the place, Serena and Molly began to smile and laugh, reminiscing on times passed.
"Molly and I come hear often, and this is the best place to really lose yourself." Serena shouted over the music as she followed Molly and Andrew to a booth away from the dance floor. Darien nodded and smiled.
Sitting down at the booth, Molly and Andrew sat by one another on one side, while Darien and Serena sat on the other side. Darien sitting on the edge. Watching the waitress approach the booth while eyeing Darien up and down, Serena fidgeted and glared at her. "Can I get you guys a drink?" she asked, looking mainly at Darien. Andrew and Molly order something incoherent to Serenas ears, as she watched the slut of a waitress size up her man. "You sir?" she asked Darien, bating her eyelashes and smiling brightly. Serena rolled her eyes and looked at Molly who was also noticing the sorry act that was going on. 'Bleach blond whore' Molly mouthed to Serena.
Laughing, Serena looked back to the pathetic scene unfolding. "I don't believe I'll have anything. I'm not thirsty for a drink at all." he said, looking at Serena while wrapping an arm around her waist and sliding her across the vinyl seat, closer to him. Serena blushed, and looked up at a glaring waitress. "You?" she asked. Serena smirked, "Nothing for me." She said. The waitress smiled sarcastically, and turned, walking away.
"Ha ha, what a slut." Molly said. Laughing. Serena wasn't looking at her friend though. Instead, she was staring into Darien's eyes. "Not thirsty?" she asked, implying the question whether he had fed or not. He smiled. "Not yet." He replied.
Hearing the familiar guitar riff of STP's Secret Garden on the radio, Serena looked at Molly, "Hey hey! They're playing our song. Ready Moll?" Serena asked smiling. Molly nodded. "Hell yeah. Move Andrew." She said, shoving him a little. "Ya know, Rita had hair like that." He said. "Andrew!? Shut up! Rita was a red head ya moron. And you're much better off without her. Now move your butt." Molly said. Sighing, Andrew got up to let Molly out.
Scooting over to Darien a bit more than what was required, Serena waited for him to move. "Where are you going?" he asked. Serena tilted her head to one side. "To dance. But I can't if you're blocking the way there guy." She said laughing. "Come on Rena." Molly said. Looking pointedly at Darien, he gave a slight frown before getting up.
"Alright, let's hit the dance floor." Molly said, grabbing Serenas arms. "We'll be back guys, don't go anywhere." Serena said, looking straight at Darien. Darien gave her a melting smile. "Don't worry." She mouthed to him. He only winked in reply. Feeling her heart race, Serena finally took off with Molly to the dance floor.
Feeling the charge of the words, Serena felt unusually entranced by them. Dancing with sways of her hips and snake like motions of her spine, she felt great. Renewed. She was safe and secure, untouchable in every aspect. Feeling a sudden presence behind her, she noticed a guy was dancing with her. He was attractive, but not her type. He had auburn hair and green eyes. Laughing though, she barely gave him any notice. She just wanted to dance. Feeling his hands on her hips, she tugged them off, and moved as much as she could from him. Though he didn't seem to give up.
Pressing against her and whispering words in her ear, she only shook her head no and pushed him away. Looking at her friend, Molly seemed to notice her dilemma, and stepped in between the two. Though, he suddenly pushed her out of the way, and walked right up to Serena. Grabbing her wrist and pulling her to him she shrieked, but no one heard her over the music. "I know you pain. What you want. Come with me." He said huskily. Serenas eyes went wide, and she tried to pull away, but it didn't seem to work. "His grip was strong. Too strong." "What? What are you talking about?" she asked. He smiled devilishly. "Please. You are so beautiful and lovely. What it is that you need, is what I can give." He said. Serena rolled her eyes, and scanned around for Molly, beginning to feel frightened.
Though her need of a savior came in a different form. In the form of a large dark haired man who seemed to always be there when needed. "You." Darien said sternly, grabbing the mans shoulder. Turning around, the mans eye went wide. "You!" Darien said again in surprise.
The red haired man smirked. "Oh, well look who it is, so glad to see you found her Darien...."
******************************************************************* Hi hi. Well, ten is finally out. So, so, so, sorry for the delay. My computer crashed. Yes, it CRASHED. And when this thing crashes, it takes a freaking eternity to get it workin. Some of you know of my computer dilemma already, so you understand, but those who don't, so sorry! My editor was nice enough to let me get on her computer to check out some things on other websites though. Ok, anyway, that's enough for me. I can't promise when ch. 11 will be out. But sooner than ch. 10, I can assure. Well, gotta go. Ciao for now-Twigs
P.S. My E-mail account was closed, cause I got rid of AOL. But you can reach me at Zenobia@sailormoon.com. Those of you that have e-mailed me, sorry I can't reply! But e-mail again. ^.^