Alone
Shadow Knight
Chapter 11: Forbidden Waltz
No notes, except thanks to my readers and reviewers, and . . . . .
Enjoy. ^_^
~
(Pietro P.O.V.)
"You remind me of myself. . . . We both reach for the stars. . . and come crashing down."
It was one of the first things she said to me when I came to the Brotherhood. I still remember her distant look as she spoke to me, almost seeming as if she was old and wise. From that day on, I knew there was something different and special about that girl . . .
Rogue.
I never even had the chance to tell her I loved her.
Picking up my glass, I downed another cup of alcohol. After she left, drinking seemed the only way to cure the pain. It left me with drunk merry and a false sense of hope. It helped me see her in my dreams to tell her beautiful face that I loved her. To watch her eyes sparkle in delight . . .
To escape reality.
I sighed and looked down into my cup. There, swirling amongst the amber liquid, I saw myself, drowning in a heap of self-pity and sorrow. Reflecting in the glossy film of my drink, I saw my lips thin and turn into a darkened, angry scowl. Irritably, I clutched the small glass cup and threw it recklessly, trying to rid myself of the image I had seen in myself.
My father.
It infuriated, scared me even, to see myself like that conniving bastard. Even the sound of his name sent me on edge. Why was I even thinking about him of all people?
Shaking my head roughly, I tried to distract my thoughts from my father and a lost flame. I peered over at the side of my desk and quickly grabbed a stack of mail my secretary had brought me.
Swiftly, I thumbed through the junk mail, bills, and such, when all of the sudden, something made me jerk to an abrupt halt. Deftly, I pulled the end of the elaborately decorated envelope out from amongst the dull, pale faces from the stack of letters.
My eyebrows rose slightly as my eyes flickered over the red and purple design that twisted in tight spirals across the letter. I looked at the sender's address and found that it was one of my business associates. What could this be for?
Sliding back in my leather chair, I reached below and pulled one of my drawers out from my desk and began searching blindly for my letter opener. Suddenly, I found it. with a surprise.
"Ow!"
My hand darted out from the dark maw of the drawer and up to my face. I nursed the pricked finger lightly and pulled the drawer out all the way. Lying inside, I saw my letter opener laying guiltily, a drop of blood tainting it's polished steel. I grimaced slightly at my childish outburst and grabbed the letter opener.
Soon, after sliding the sharp metal under the envelope cover, the contents of the package spilled onto my desk, cluttering it with sparkles. I frowned deeply as I brushed the mess of my desk. I pulled out a slim, red letter that had my name imprinted on the top, drawn in fine cursive. Carefully, I opened the letter, hoping that there would be no more "surprises".
Rapidly, my eyes ran down the page. As I finished, I stared at the paper dimly for a moment. Then, I slowly folded the letter back up and gazed into space. I felt something suddenly bubble up inside me, pounding on my throat to get out. Just when I thought I couldn't hold it any longer, I let my mouth open.
And I laughed.
I didn't know where it came from, but I chuckled bitterly. Then, I grabbed my letter opener and stabbed the note with morbid amusement. As I got up, I wrote a note to my secretary telling her that I would not be available for the rest of today.
After all, I had to get ready for a masquerade party.
~
(Rogue's P.O.V.)
Oh . . .
How wonderful was the darkness, I thought as I squeezed my pillow and snuggled up for some more sleep. Nothing is better than sleeping in . . .
Ring!
Scratch that.
Peering through thin slits, I fumbled my way over until I reached the phone beside my bed. I pulled the slim white handle over and plastered it to my head, ready to scream at the person who called me at this unthinkable hour. "Who is it," I hissed angrily into the speaker.
"It's time to get your lazy ass out of bed, Rogue."
My eyes screwed angrily and I pushed myself up into a sitting position. "Jenny, you better shut your trap and leave me alone. . . . And tell me what information you have."
The voice on the other side of the line laughed as I threatened her. After a pause, I heard the hasty shuffle of papers as she hummed busily searching. "Rogue," she whispered in delight, "do you know where your target is going tonight? Hmm?"
Closing my eyes, I sighed heavily. Jenny always loved to play guessing games. "No," I breathed into the phone wearily, "I don't Jenny. Would you mind screwing the mind games and tell me already?"
"Oh fine then," she angrily huffed, "your target is going to some party tonight. Get some paper and a pen and I'll tell you where to go."
"Alright already," I teased, while grabbing my notebook, "don't get into a hissy fit."
As she told me the address, I quickly scrawled it down, reminding myself that I should bring along some defense and perhaps change my disguise for tonight. When I finished, I was about to say thank you, when Jenny continued.
"Oh! I almost forgot," she mumbled, "you need to pick up a nice dress, but you also have to pick up one more thing."
"What?"
"You have to pick up a mask."
~
(Pietro's P.O.V.)
"Shit."
With all the meetings I had to attend today, I found myself losing track of time, bit by bit. I never thought something like this was ever going to happen to me.
I was going to be late.
When I had just finished tying the black ribbon around my collar into a ribbon, I realized I had forgotten the most important piece of my attire for tonight.
The freaking mask.
Cursing slightly, I quickly slipped on my suit jacket and grabbing a coat, I fumbled around for my keys. After a bit of searching and some more cursing, I found the evasive keys and ran out the door, slamming it shut behind me. As I slipped my coat on, I raced down the stairs, trying not to let my heart beat so fast when I kept missing steps, nearly falling down the way.
Sure, I could have just ran to the party, but I certainly didn't want my coworkers to see me running faster than a speeding train. No, I grimaced, that would not lead to anything too good.
After all, no one wanted a mutant around to spoil the atmosphere.
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I shuffled hastily into the apartment's Shoppe. Avidly I let my eyes flicker from side to side, trying to spot something to do with party supplies. Thankfully, I found myself looking upon a sign painted with bold red letters: PARTY SUPPLIES.
With a stressed smile on my face, I scrambled through the supplies until I found some mask. With out looking, I quickly grabbed a mask, paid, and made my way out of the store and headed toward the grand entrance of the apartment lobby.
Fervently, I shoved the box into my coat pocket and started to pull out my gloves and keys. Without gazing up from searching for my keys, I continued my pace toward the door.
I didn't see her in front of me.
With a slight bang, my body collided with something small and warm. Before I fell onto the black, marble floor, I balanced myself quickly and adjusted my coat. Dusting on the sleeve of my coat composedly, I dropped my gaze to the heap bellow me.
Collapsed in the folds of a wrinkled purple dress, a small, young girl sat, hands to her face as she wiped her eyes. With ebony hair flushing around her face, a ring of light formed a small halo on her little head. I sighed and closed my eyes wearily.
Dammit. Why do these things happen to me?
Squatting down onto my knees, I peered at her through guarded eyes and observed her silently. Seeing my feet, she withdrew her hands and whipped her small face up at me. For a moment, I felt my breath catch in my throat as I peered at her eyes. I could see my startled reflection in her deep, gray pools. I shut my mouth and simply wondered how a child so young could have eyes that spoke of so many painful years. How she gazed at me with such aged eyes threw me out of my cool exterior for a moment.
Nudging my hand toward her, I grabbed her delicate hand and helped her to her feet. Grasping one of my pants legs, she balanced her self onto her feet, and straightened her dress. Pulling back a lock of her dark hair, she looked up me with a mute expression for a moment and then, bowing her head, mumbled a small, "thank you." With that, she quickly ran down the lobby and around a corner into one of the halls.
Watching her small black buckle shoes run around the corner, I couldn't help but wonder what was different about that girl. Something just struck me wrong. She seemed much older some how. . .
Slowly, I let my eyes drop to my watch on my wrist as I brought it to my face. As the steely face flickered into my vision, I frowned deeply and narrowed my eyes.
"Damn."
Grabbing my keys, I began to pick up my pace and run slightly outside, mentally kicking myself for delaying so much. Cursing, I didn't notice the pair of large, gray eyes staring at my back as I left through the revolving door.
~
Click.
"Jenny, I did it."
"Good job. Thanks again for doing something like this. I owe you."
A deep, throaty laugh sounded on the other end.
"Don't worry, Jenny. If it brings in the cash, I'll do just about anything."
"Regardless, thank you for your services in this. I'll get your money soon. I have to go."
"Bye, Jenny."
Click.......
~
(Rogue's P.O.V.)
"Would you care to dance, mademoiselle?"
Sliding my eyes to my side, I looked through heavy lidded eyes at the man to my side. As I took in his dark haired ponytail and dark eyes, I found myself smiling similarly to his crooked smile. Any other day, I would have danced with this handsome man, but not today. I had to keep focused on my main objective for tonight.
My target.
"Sorry," I smiled apologetically, "I'm waiting for someone, and I have to meet them soon."
"Oh," he smiled despairingly, knowing he was outdone. Distractedly, I watched him glide across the room to look for another lady to waltz with. As he walked away, I could have sworn that I had seen the man before . . . No, I have to concentrate. I sighed and pulled my black jacket tighter around my shoulders, trying to arrange my thoughts in order.
Glancing at the corner of my eyes, I noticed another man making his way toward me, a hopeful smile on his face as dark shades of red glass filled the eyeholes in his mask. I felt a slight frown of annoyance grow on my face.
There was something about those guys that was really bugging me. Every time I declined one, they all formed a group and talked with some other girls I didn't know. Not that I didn't know a lot of people here though.
Grabbing my drink from the table, I made my way quickly toward the back of the building, trying to evade the man through the crowds of people. Finally, I lost him and slipped through one of the doors leading to back entrance.
Pulling the steel door behind me, I leaned heavily against the door and sipped miserably at my drink. When was my target going to get here? I exhaled deeply and watched my breath curl wispily in the chill night's air. Taking another sip at my drink, I tried to warm my body, rubbing my pale arm with one hand.
"Dammit, if that person doesn't get here in five minutes, I'm going to kick some Jenny as-."
The deep roar of an engine cut me off in mid-threat and alerted me that someone was approaching. And fast.
Looking about me, I quickly hid behind a pile of boxes near the wall. From my shadowy curtain, I watched with calculating eyes. Could this be my target?
From a roar to a quiet purr, I watched as a black car pulled up into my vision, crunching the frozen ground below its heavy tires. As the car halted and died down, I stiffened, trying not to breathe as the door cracked open.
One black pant leg slipped from the car, then a gloved hand, and eventually, I silently watched as a man stood, brushing off his coat and shutting the door. Locking the car, he started his way inside. I had looked at his face, but as I expected, a white mask hid his appearance from me.
When he stepped inside, I stood up and carefully crept to the door, gazing through the little window slot of the door. The silhouette of the man slipped through the next door and into the main ballroom of the building.
Slipping my hands behind my head, I tightened the tie behind my head and entered in after the man into the building. Suddenly, before I reached the second door into the ballroom, my cell phone jingled at my side.
Hastily, I flipped it open and answered the phone, already knowing who was on the other line. "Roguey. . .," tinkled a merry voice in my ear.
"Jenny," I angrily hissed, "Where is the target, dammit?!"
Jenny seemed slightly miffed at my tone and sniffed at me, "I'm not sure I want to tell you now. I guess I'll just go and leave you to fail your mission. . . ."
"Don't even start playing games, Jenny! I don't have time for this."
"Okay, okay," she bubbled joyfully, "But, you do have to play a game of mine to know cause you didn't play my last one!"
I was about to argue, but decided against it. I didn't have much time until my mission time was up anyways. I needed to get the job done tonight. "Whatever, Jenny," I sighed, defeated, into the phone, "Just tell me already, please."
She giggled with joy. I could imagine her clapping her hands now. . . "Okay, Roguey. Listen well, and remember this. Cause I'm only gonna tell you once, kay? Alright then," she replied after hearing my consent, "first of all, I had one of my connections plant a tracker device on your target. Just use the phone I gave you and click it onto 'track'. Then, you know how a tracking system works.
When it beeps the fastest, you'll know where your target is. Put the earpiece in your ear and follow the beep so it wont distract anyone, kay? Alright girly girl, do good and come back and see me at the company soon. I'm out."
"Thanks again, Jenny."
"No prob."
Click. . . . . .
As she hung up, I quickly dug into my handbag and scuffled inside, pulling out my cordless earpiece. I smiled as I inserted the earpiece. Pulling a strand of hair over my right ear, I grinned madly.
I felt like the next James Bond.
Clicking my cell phone onto 'track', I drank the rest of my martini and left the glass on a nearby shelf. Then, I made my way out into the crowd.
Let the search begin.
~
"Damn, we lost her."
"What?!. . . . Shit. . . just. listen kid, just follow the girl and report if you see anything strange about her. The big guy said that he felt something here, and she's the only one we haven't seen before. Alright, kid?"
"Yeah. . ."
"It's alright, kid. I know what you're thinking. Just watch her, okay? And keep everybody near you."
". . . . ."
"Bye."
Click. . . . . . .
~
Beep. . .
Beep. . . .
Beep. . . Beep. . .
A grin found its way on my face as my eyes flittered from side to side within the holes of my mask. I was getting closer. The incessant beeping told me as I filtered through the crowd of flashy dresses and colorful masks.
Beep. . Beep. . Beep. . .
My eyes screwed upward from the crowd as I reached a door. Where did this lead? I pressed onto the cool surface lightly and peered through the small sliver. So far so good, I thought.
Gathering courage, I slipped inside the door and let it fall shut behind me. I let my eyes slowly adjust to the dimness of the room as I walked in, amazed.
Thick sheets of smooth glass gazed at me, as I drew closer. Two large windows lodged in the walls exposed the outdoors and showed an extraordinary view of the deep heart of the city. Twinkling lights shined both above and below me as I stepped closer. I could hear the quiet clack of my heels clicking along the porcelain floor, but I ignored it, transfixed by this sight.
I reached the windows and brushed my fingers against the surface, my vision transfixed on the sight. I didn't even notice the tracking beep rapidly beating against my ear until I felt a chill roll down my spine.
Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep. . . . . . . . . .
"What are you doing in here?"
As the hot, husky breath breathed on my neck, I felt my eyes widen and the fine hairs on my neck stand tall. My target. . . . . .
I had found him.
~
(Target's P.O.V.)
As soon as the door had clicked open, I drew into the shadows. Slowly, a young lady stepped inside and peered around. As she drew closer into the room, the moonlight illuminated her face in pale light. Ascending around her shoulders in waves were layers of dark, chestnut hair, curling loosely around her face.
Her dress came right out of a silver movie screen. Black velvet crept around her as it melded into a form fitting dress that hugged and loosened in the right spots, satin gloves reaching up her arms.
Her eyes startled me slightly with such a beautiful light gray color, slipping through her mask. Yet, her expression drew me the most. As she walked to the tall windows, her ruby lips were parted, an intangible mask of shock and delight spilling upon her face.
She looked. . . . beautiful.
I felt a small grin grow on my face as I approached her, still unaware of my presence. Then I simply asked her with a sly grin, "What are you doing in here?"
She suddenly tensed as she sensed me, but her body quickly seemed to relax, as if trained on command to do so. She turned and looked at me with a small smile. Her silver mask hiding the top of her face from me, made me want to see what was under. She stepped back slightly and observed me silently.
"I just got tired of the crowd I suppose."
My smile grew more pleasant. She seemed like me. I wasn't going to pass up a chance like this. I thought I would try and lay on the charm. "Well, since we have no audience. . . . may I have this dance?"
At first I thought that my question would be too straightforward and make her wary, but she surprised me when she simply smiled seductively and took my offered hand. "I would love to," she murmured with a silky grin.
We twirled, we span, we danced for what seemed like hours, but in reality, it was only a half hour or so. Even as we spun around and around, I felt like she was someone I had known all my life. As if she were my soul mate.
Everything about her seemed familiar to me. The scent of her hair, the tone of her voice, the smooth skin that formed her beautiful face. . . . . It was like she was the part of me that I had been missing all my life. Grasping her back as she held my shoulders, I let my head dip slightly and rest in her silky strands of hair. She didn't make a move to remove me.
As we slowed to a simple two-step, I felt something strange and warm come over me. "I. . . I feel like I've met you someplace before," I mumbled out loud into the folds of her hair. It reminded me of lilacs.
Her sweet smelling hair was drawn from my face as she looked up at me through her mask. I was glad that my own mask was hiding my face, or I think she would have seen a childish blush on my face. As her red lips turned in a knowing smile, she raised two gloved fingers to her lips. Pressing lightly, she kissed her fingers and pressed them lightly against mine. Her satin touch made an electric shot run down my spine.
She withdrew from my arms and looked carefully at me. For some reason, I was beginning to felt as if my head were spinning with drunkenness. Yet, I tried to maintain my head by using my powers. Somehow, I managed.
Her gaze, looked at me, calculatedly, right before a slight frown marred her beautiful face. Yet, as quick as it had appeared, it was replaced with another warm smile. She came close to me and looked into my eyes. For a moment, it felt as if she were gazing into my soul.
She suddenly let her fingers slide up to my face and brush my cheek. "You. . ." she whispered softly as her eyes looked in mine, "You remind me of . . . myself. We both reach for the stars. . . . and come crashing down."
With that she reached up and gave me a light butterfly kiss on the cheek, lips just brushing my skin. Then, she let go of me and began walking back out toward the ballroom. Yet, even as her satin touch left my cheek, her words echoed hollowly in my head.
"You remind me of myself. . . ."
"We both reach for the stars. . . ."
"and we both come crashing down. . . ."
". . . . crashing down. . . ."
~
My heels clicked lightly against the floor as I left the man. There was something about him that shook me to my core. First, he hadn't become drowsy and drunk with my drug, and then, he made me feel something. . . .
Warm. Appreciated. I shook my head. I shouldn't be feeling that way, I told myself. I'll finish the job later when I have a clear head.
I reached for the door when I suddenly felt a large hand wrap around my wrist and pull me back slightly. I froze and spun around. His eyes were wide beneath his mask and his mouth was gapping slightly as if from shock. It made me shiver as his eyes burned into mine, looking for something that I couldn't understand.
Worried, I began to lightly wrestle my arm out of his grasp when I heard him take in a deep breath. Looking up with concern, I felt a dark sense of dread wash over me.
Then, he said one word that shattered my world into a million fragments.
"Rogue?"
~
PHEW! Relief upon Relief! Oh yeah. THERE WAS SOME GOOD OL' RECOGNITION FOR YOU SHADOW!!! I hope you liked it! ^_^ I tried really hard to lead all up to this moment. Oh, don't worry, this isn't the end or the climax. We still have just a little bit ways to go before I get this thing done.
Well, you'll find out who was talking in the last conversation over the phone in the next chapter. Did you figure up what was with the little girl and all that? If you don't, tell me and I'll tell you. Or ya can just re- read it if you want. ^_^
In the NEXT CHAPTER!!!: What will Rogue do when she's discovered? And what's this?! There's another group after Rogue?! What will Pietro do when he discovers what Rogue's true identity is?
Until next time!!!! Oh...and if you would be EVER so kind. . . . . . . . . PLEASE FOR THE SAKE OF ALL, REVIEW! Please? Ciao. ^_~
Shadow Knight
Chapter 11: Forbidden Waltz
No notes, except thanks to my readers and reviewers, and . . . . .
Enjoy. ^_^
~
(Pietro P.O.V.)
"You remind me of myself. . . . We both reach for the stars. . . and come crashing down."
It was one of the first things she said to me when I came to the Brotherhood. I still remember her distant look as she spoke to me, almost seeming as if she was old and wise. From that day on, I knew there was something different and special about that girl . . .
Rogue.
I never even had the chance to tell her I loved her.
Picking up my glass, I downed another cup of alcohol. After she left, drinking seemed the only way to cure the pain. It left me with drunk merry and a false sense of hope. It helped me see her in my dreams to tell her beautiful face that I loved her. To watch her eyes sparkle in delight . . .
To escape reality.
I sighed and looked down into my cup. There, swirling amongst the amber liquid, I saw myself, drowning in a heap of self-pity and sorrow. Reflecting in the glossy film of my drink, I saw my lips thin and turn into a darkened, angry scowl. Irritably, I clutched the small glass cup and threw it recklessly, trying to rid myself of the image I had seen in myself.
My father.
It infuriated, scared me even, to see myself like that conniving bastard. Even the sound of his name sent me on edge. Why was I even thinking about him of all people?
Shaking my head roughly, I tried to distract my thoughts from my father and a lost flame. I peered over at the side of my desk and quickly grabbed a stack of mail my secretary had brought me.
Swiftly, I thumbed through the junk mail, bills, and such, when all of the sudden, something made me jerk to an abrupt halt. Deftly, I pulled the end of the elaborately decorated envelope out from amongst the dull, pale faces from the stack of letters.
My eyebrows rose slightly as my eyes flickered over the red and purple design that twisted in tight spirals across the letter. I looked at the sender's address and found that it was one of my business associates. What could this be for?
Sliding back in my leather chair, I reached below and pulled one of my drawers out from my desk and began searching blindly for my letter opener. Suddenly, I found it. with a surprise.
"Ow!"
My hand darted out from the dark maw of the drawer and up to my face. I nursed the pricked finger lightly and pulled the drawer out all the way. Lying inside, I saw my letter opener laying guiltily, a drop of blood tainting it's polished steel. I grimaced slightly at my childish outburst and grabbed the letter opener.
Soon, after sliding the sharp metal under the envelope cover, the contents of the package spilled onto my desk, cluttering it with sparkles. I frowned deeply as I brushed the mess of my desk. I pulled out a slim, red letter that had my name imprinted on the top, drawn in fine cursive. Carefully, I opened the letter, hoping that there would be no more "surprises".
Rapidly, my eyes ran down the page. As I finished, I stared at the paper dimly for a moment. Then, I slowly folded the letter back up and gazed into space. I felt something suddenly bubble up inside me, pounding on my throat to get out. Just when I thought I couldn't hold it any longer, I let my mouth open.
And I laughed.
I didn't know where it came from, but I chuckled bitterly. Then, I grabbed my letter opener and stabbed the note with morbid amusement. As I got up, I wrote a note to my secretary telling her that I would not be available for the rest of today.
After all, I had to get ready for a masquerade party.
~
(Rogue's P.O.V.)
Oh . . .
How wonderful was the darkness, I thought as I squeezed my pillow and snuggled up for some more sleep. Nothing is better than sleeping in . . .
Ring!
Scratch that.
Peering through thin slits, I fumbled my way over until I reached the phone beside my bed. I pulled the slim white handle over and plastered it to my head, ready to scream at the person who called me at this unthinkable hour. "Who is it," I hissed angrily into the speaker.
"It's time to get your lazy ass out of bed, Rogue."
My eyes screwed angrily and I pushed myself up into a sitting position. "Jenny, you better shut your trap and leave me alone. . . . And tell me what information you have."
The voice on the other side of the line laughed as I threatened her. After a pause, I heard the hasty shuffle of papers as she hummed busily searching. "Rogue," she whispered in delight, "do you know where your target is going tonight? Hmm?"
Closing my eyes, I sighed heavily. Jenny always loved to play guessing games. "No," I breathed into the phone wearily, "I don't Jenny. Would you mind screwing the mind games and tell me already?"
"Oh fine then," she angrily huffed, "your target is going to some party tonight. Get some paper and a pen and I'll tell you where to go."
"Alright already," I teased, while grabbing my notebook, "don't get into a hissy fit."
As she told me the address, I quickly scrawled it down, reminding myself that I should bring along some defense and perhaps change my disguise for tonight. When I finished, I was about to say thank you, when Jenny continued.
"Oh! I almost forgot," she mumbled, "you need to pick up a nice dress, but you also have to pick up one more thing."
"What?"
"You have to pick up a mask."
~
(Pietro's P.O.V.)
"Shit."
With all the meetings I had to attend today, I found myself losing track of time, bit by bit. I never thought something like this was ever going to happen to me.
I was going to be late.
When I had just finished tying the black ribbon around my collar into a ribbon, I realized I had forgotten the most important piece of my attire for tonight.
The freaking mask.
Cursing slightly, I quickly slipped on my suit jacket and grabbing a coat, I fumbled around for my keys. After a bit of searching and some more cursing, I found the evasive keys and ran out the door, slamming it shut behind me. As I slipped my coat on, I raced down the stairs, trying not to let my heart beat so fast when I kept missing steps, nearly falling down the way.
Sure, I could have just ran to the party, but I certainly didn't want my coworkers to see me running faster than a speeding train. No, I grimaced, that would not lead to anything too good.
After all, no one wanted a mutant around to spoil the atmosphere.
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I shuffled hastily into the apartment's Shoppe. Avidly I let my eyes flicker from side to side, trying to spot something to do with party supplies. Thankfully, I found myself looking upon a sign painted with bold red letters: PARTY SUPPLIES.
With a stressed smile on my face, I scrambled through the supplies until I found some mask. With out looking, I quickly grabbed a mask, paid, and made my way out of the store and headed toward the grand entrance of the apartment lobby.
Fervently, I shoved the box into my coat pocket and started to pull out my gloves and keys. Without gazing up from searching for my keys, I continued my pace toward the door.
I didn't see her in front of me.
With a slight bang, my body collided with something small and warm. Before I fell onto the black, marble floor, I balanced myself quickly and adjusted my coat. Dusting on the sleeve of my coat composedly, I dropped my gaze to the heap bellow me.
Collapsed in the folds of a wrinkled purple dress, a small, young girl sat, hands to her face as she wiped her eyes. With ebony hair flushing around her face, a ring of light formed a small halo on her little head. I sighed and closed my eyes wearily.
Dammit. Why do these things happen to me?
Squatting down onto my knees, I peered at her through guarded eyes and observed her silently. Seeing my feet, she withdrew her hands and whipped her small face up at me. For a moment, I felt my breath catch in my throat as I peered at her eyes. I could see my startled reflection in her deep, gray pools. I shut my mouth and simply wondered how a child so young could have eyes that spoke of so many painful years. How she gazed at me with such aged eyes threw me out of my cool exterior for a moment.
Nudging my hand toward her, I grabbed her delicate hand and helped her to her feet. Grasping one of my pants legs, she balanced her self onto her feet, and straightened her dress. Pulling back a lock of her dark hair, she looked up me with a mute expression for a moment and then, bowing her head, mumbled a small, "thank you." With that, she quickly ran down the lobby and around a corner into one of the halls.
Watching her small black buckle shoes run around the corner, I couldn't help but wonder what was different about that girl. Something just struck me wrong. She seemed much older some how. . .
Slowly, I let my eyes drop to my watch on my wrist as I brought it to my face. As the steely face flickered into my vision, I frowned deeply and narrowed my eyes.
"Damn."
Grabbing my keys, I began to pick up my pace and run slightly outside, mentally kicking myself for delaying so much. Cursing, I didn't notice the pair of large, gray eyes staring at my back as I left through the revolving door.
~
Click.
"Jenny, I did it."
"Good job. Thanks again for doing something like this. I owe you."
A deep, throaty laugh sounded on the other end.
"Don't worry, Jenny. If it brings in the cash, I'll do just about anything."
"Regardless, thank you for your services in this. I'll get your money soon. I have to go."
"Bye, Jenny."
Click.......
~
(Rogue's P.O.V.)
"Would you care to dance, mademoiselle?"
Sliding my eyes to my side, I looked through heavy lidded eyes at the man to my side. As I took in his dark haired ponytail and dark eyes, I found myself smiling similarly to his crooked smile. Any other day, I would have danced with this handsome man, but not today. I had to keep focused on my main objective for tonight.
My target.
"Sorry," I smiled apologetically, "I'm waiting for someone, and I have to meet them soon."
"Oh," he smiled despairingly, knowing he was outdone. Distractedly, I watched him glide across the room to look for another lady to waltz with. As he walked away, I could have sworn that I had seen the man before . . . No, I have to concentrate. I sighed and pulled my black jacket tighter around my shoulders, trying to arrange my thoughts in order.
Glancing at the corner of my eyes, I noticed another man making his way toward me, a hopeful smile on his face as dark shades of red glass filled the eyeholes in his mask. I felt a slight frown of annoyance grow on my face.
There was something about those guys that was really bugging me. Every time I declined one, they all formed a group and talked with some other girls I didn't know. Not that I didn't know a lot of people here though.
Grabbing my drink from the table, I made my way quickly toward the back of the building, trying to evade the man through the crowds of people. Finally, I lost him and slipped through one of the doors leading to back entrance.
Pulling the steel door behind me, I leaned heavily against the door and sipped miserably at my drink. When was my target going to get here? I exhaled deeply and watched my breath curl wispily in the chill night's air. Taking another sip at my drink, I tried to warm my body, rubbing my pale arm with one hand.
"Dammit, if that person doesn't get here in five minutes, I'm going to kick some Jenny as-."
The deep roar of an engine cut me off in mid-threat and alerted me that someone was approaching. And fast.
Looking about me, I quickly hid behind a pile of boxes near the wall. From my shadowy curtain, I watched with calculating eyes. Could this be my target?
From a roar to a quiet purr, I watched as a black car pulled up into my vision, crunching the frozen ground below its heavy tires. As the car halted and died down, I stiffened, trying not to breathe as the door cracked open.
One black pant leg slipped from the car, then a gloved hand, and eventually, I silently watched as a man stood, brushing off his coat and shutting the door. Locking the car, he started his way inside. I had looked at his face, but as I expected, a white mask hid his appearance from me.
When he stepped inside, I stood up and carefully crept to the door, gazing through the little window slot of the door. The silhouette of the man slipped through the next door and into the main ballroom of the building.
Slipping my hands behind my head, I tightened the tie behind my head and entered in after the man into the building. Suddenly, before I reached the second door into the ballroom, my cell phone jingled at my side.
Hastily, I flipped it open and answered the phone, already knowing who was on the other line. "Roguey. . .," tinkled a merry voice in my ear.
"Jenny," I angrily hissed, "Where is the target, dammit?!"
Jenny seemed slightly miffed at my tone and sniffed at me, "I'm not sure I want to tell you now. I guess I'll just go and leave you to fail your mission. . . ."
"Don't even start playing games, Jenny! I don't have time for this."
"Okay, okay," she bubbled joyfully, "But, you do have to play a game of mine to know cause you didn't play my last one!"
I was about to argue, but decided against it. I didn't have much time until my mission time was up anyways. I needed to get the job done tonight. "Whatever, Jenny," I sighed, defeated, into the phone, "Just tell me already, please."
She giggled with joy. I could imagine her clapping her hands now. . . "Okay, Roguey. Listen well, and remember this. Cause I'm only gonna tell you once, kay? Alright then," she replied after hearing my consent, "first of all, I had one of my connections plant a tracker device on your target. Just use the phone I gave you and click it onto 'track'. Then, you know how a tracking system works.
When it beeps the fastest, you'll know where your target is. Put the earpiece in your ear and follow the beep so it wont distract anyone, kay? Alright girly girl, do good and come back and see me at the company soon. I'm out."
"Thanks again, Jenny."
"No prob."
Click. . . . . .
As she hung up, I quickly dug into my handbag and scuffled inside, pulling out my cordless earpiece. I smiled as I inserted the earpiece. Pulling a strand of hair over my right ear, I grinned madly.
I felt like the next James Bond.
Clicking my cell phone onto 'track', I drank the rest of my martini and left the glass on a nearby shelf. Then, I made my way out into the crowd.
Let the search begin.
~
"Damn, we lost her."
"What?!. . . . Shit. . . just. listen kid, just follow the girl and report if you see anything strange about her. The big guy said that he felt something here, and she's the only one we haven't seen before. Alright, kid?"
"Yeah. . ."
"It's alright, kid. I know what you're thinking. Just watch her, okay? And keep everybody near you."
". . . . ."
"Bye."
Click. . . . . . .
~
Beep. . .
Beep. . . .
Beep. . . Beep. . .
A grin found its way on my face as my eyes flittered from side to side within the holes of my mask. I was getting closer. The incessant beeping told me as I filtered through the crowd of flashy dresses and colorful masks.
Beep. . Beep. . Beep. . .
My eyes screwed upward from the crowd as I reached a door. Where did this lead? I pressed onto the cool surface lightly and peered through the small sliver. So far so good, I thought.
Gathering courage, I slipped inside the door and let it fall shut behind me. I let my eyes slowly adjust to the dimness of the room as I walked in, amazed.
Thick sheets of smooth glass gazed at me, as I drew closer. Two large windows lodged in the walls exposed the outdoors and showed an extraordinary view of the deep heart of the city. Twinkling lights shined both above and below me as I stepped closer. I could hear the quiet clack of my heels clicking along the porcelain floor, but I ignored it, transfixed by this sight.
I reached the windows and brushed my fingers against the surface, my vision transfixed on the sight. I didn't even notice the tracking beep rapidly beating against my ear until I felt a chill roll down my spine.
Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep. . . . . . . . . .
"What are you doing in here?"
As the hot, husky breath breathed on my neck, I felt my eyes widen and the fine hairs on my neck stand tall. My target. . . . . .
I had found him.
~
(Target's P.O.V.)
As soon as the door had clicked open, I drew into the shadows. Slowly, a young lady stepped inside and peered around. As she drew closer into the room, the moonlight illuminated her face in pale light. Ascending around her shoulders in waves were layers of dark, chestnut hair, curling loosely around her face.
Her dress came right out of a silver movie screen. Black velvet crept around her as it melded into a form fitting dress that hugged and loosened in the right spots, satin gloves reaching up her arms.
Her eyes startled me slightly with such a beautiful light gray color, slipping through her mask. Yet, her expression drew me the most. As she walked to the tall windows, her ruby lips were parted, an intangible mask of shock and delight spilling upon her face.
She looked. . . . beautiful.
I felt a small grin grow on my face as I approached her, still unaware of my presence. Then I simply asked her with a sly grin, "What are you doing in here?"
She suddenly tensed as she sensed me, but her body quickly seemed to relax, as if trained on command to do so. She turned and looked at me with a small smile. Her silver mask hiding the top of her face from me, made me want to see what was under. She stepped back slightly and observed me silently.
"I just got tired of the crowd I suppose."
My smile grew more pleasant. She seemed like me. I wasn't going to pass up a chance like this. I thought I would try and lay on the charm. "Well, since we have no audience. . . . may I have this dance?"
At first I thought that my question would be too straightforward and make her wary, but she surprised me when she simply smiled seductively and took my offered hand. "I would love to," she murmured with a silky grin.
We twirled, we span, we danced for what seemed like hours, but in reality, it was only a half hour or so. Even as we spun around and around, I felt like she was someone I had known all my life. As if she were my soul mate.
Everything about her seemed familiar to me. The scent of her hair, the tone of her voice, the smooth skin that formed her beautiful face. . . . . It was like she was the part of me that I had been missing all my life. Grasping her back as she held my shoulders, I let my head dip slightly and rest in her silky strands of hair. She didn't make a move to remove me.
As we slowed to a simple two-step, I felt something strange and warm come over me. "I. . . I feel like I've met you someplace before," I mumbled out loud into the folds of her hair. It reminded me of lilacs.
Her sweet smelling hair was drawn from my face as she looked up at me through her mask. I was glad that my own mask was hiding my face, or I think she would have seen a childish blush on my face. As her red lips turned in a knowing smile, she raised two gloved fingers to her lips. Pressing lightly, she kissed her fingers and pressed them lightly against mine. Her satin touch made an electric shot run down my spine.
She withdrew from my arms and looked carefully at me. For some reason, I was beginning to felt as if my head were spinning with drunkenness. Yet, I tried to maintain my head by using my powers. Somehow, I managed.
Her gaze, looked at me, calculatedly, right before a slight frown marred her beautiful face. Yet, as quick as it had appeared, it was replaced with another warm smile. She came close to me and looked into my eyes. For a moment, it felt as if she were gazing into my soul.
She suddenly let her fingers slide up to my face and brush my cheek. "You. . ." she whispered softly as her eyes looked in mine, "You remind me of . . . myself. We both reach for the stars. . . . and come crashing down."
With that she reached up and gave me a light butterfly kiss on the cheek, lips just brushing my skin. Then, she let go of me and began walking back out toward the ballroom. Yet, even as her satin touch left my cheek, her words echoed hollowly in my head.
"You remind me of myself. . . ."
"We both reach for the stars. . . ."
"and we both come crashing down. . . ."
". . . . crashing down. . . ."
~
My heels clicked lightly against the floor as I left the man. There was something about him that shook me to my core. First, he hadn't become drowsy and drunk with my drug, and then, he made me feel something. . . .
Warm. Appreciated. I shook my head. I shouldn't be feeling that way, I told myself. I'll finish the job later when I have a clear head.
I reached for the door when I suddenly felt a large hand wrap around my wrist and pull me back slightly. I froze and spun around. His eyes were wide beneath his mask and his mouth was gapping slightly as if from shock. It made me shiver as his eyes burned into mine, looking for something that I couldn't understand.
Worried, I began to lightly wrestle my arm out of his grasp when I heard him take in a deep breath. Looking up with concern, I felt a dark sense of dread wash over me.
Then, he said one word that shattered my world into a million fragments.
"Rogue?"
~
PHEW! Relief upon Relief! Oh yeah. THERE WAS SOME GOOD OL' RECOGNITION FOR YOU SHADOW!!! I hope you liked it! ^_^ I tried really hard to lead all up to this moment. Oh, don't worry, this isn't the end or the climax. We still have just a little bit ways to go before I get this thing done.
Well, you'll find out who was talking in the last conversation over the phone in the next chapter. Did you figure up what was with the little girl and all that? If you don't, tell me and I'll tell you. Or ya can just re- read it if you want. ^_^
In the NEXT CHAPTER!!!: What will Rogue do when she's discovered? And what's this?! There's another group after Rogue?! What will Pietro do when he discovers what Rogue's true identity is?
Until next time!!!! Oh...and if you would be EVER so kind. . . . . . . . . PLEASE FOR THE SAKE OF ALL, REVIEW! Please? Ciao. ^_~