Disclaimer: I don't own Trigun; I'm just a fan that's all.
Note: Sorry bout the wait, its been over a week so once again I'm sorry. I was planning another Trigun fan fiction and got carried away with it. So once again let's thank all my lovely reviewers:
ToughCookie: Yes I agree with you, Ashley is going to play a vital role with Vash and Meryl's relationship.
Dreamer_of_Night: (=*.*=) kitty eyes lol. Read on to find out, but don't worry I'm mean but not that mean. *Screaming heard in background* hey I told you to be quiet! *Closes door and shuts out screams*
Silverado6000: *wipes away a tear* thank you so much for your kind review, it means a lot and helps keep me updating faster.
Rainy-days13: here's your update and thanks for the review it means a lot, I hope you enjoy this chappie.
Darkraven: Yeah kisses are all good, here's your update oh kind reviewer *bows*
Pammi: yay hello new reviewer and welcome to my fan fiction, thank you so much for your review. I will keep the Millie/Knives relationship in mind. *hugs*
Dustdragon: here is your update new best friend.
AnImEfREeK: yay another new reviewer, I'm glad you enjoyed my writing, I do try my very best when I write these but the good thing is I get better with practise which means longer and more detailed chapters for you. I'm working on making this my longest chapter yet.
Wow I think that's a record of reviews for me I'm so happy.
'Love and Peace' to you all
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Chapter 7 - Pain
The moons reached out their delicate tendrils of light to gently caress the desert, making it glow with purity. It was this gossamer light that revealed the approaching bus: its yellow paint smooth and shining with the starlight.
The track was always bumpy and the driver tried his best to drive around dips or rocks that blocked the way. Turning in his seat he glanced around the nearly empty bus. Two men and a woman with a child in her lap were the only ones travelling tonight. He himself was curious as to why anyone would want to travel at such a late time. Swivelling around in his chair to look ahead his eyes widened in shock, a small girl was standing on the track waving her arms frantically. Her hair flowed and caught the sparkling stars in their delicate strands and he slammed on the breaks forcing the bus to a screeching, ungraceful stop.
Opening his eyes that he had closed from fear the driver sighed and leaned forward to rest his forehead against the steering wheel. There were a few mumbled complaints from his passengers that were silenced as the driver opened the door to allow the child on. She clambered up to him breathing hard and trying to catch her breath so she could speak.
"Please mister we need your help." She begged as she clung to the door of the bus.
"What do you mean?"
"My friends." The driver followed the direction of her pointing hand and narrowed his eyes to see the friends she was talking about. "Slaves" he breathed in disbelief. The girl nodded and indicated for the others to approach.
"Do you have any money?" The driver asked with a quirk of his eyebrow, already knowing the answer.
"No sir we don't but..."
"Ashley!" A voice yelled and interrupted her, the girl turned to an approaching man with a woman lying motionless in his arms.
The blonde man stepped up next to Ashley and directed his cool gaze towards the driver who was busy staring at the blood that stained the woman's clothing.
"What can I do for you?" The driver asked stupidly.
"I was hoping you could give us a lift back to town." The blonde man stated simply, a slight pleading tone in his weary voice.
"Well..." the driver began but Vash interrupted him knowing that the man was going to give some sort of excuse.
"If you don't help us she will die." He indicated the raven-haired girl whom he held gently in his embrace. The bus driver cast her another long look and sighed, he knew he was going to regret this but he couldn't turn his back on these people. He checked with the few passengers who nodded in agreement and allowed the slaves onboard. In return he gained a smile from each of them.
Vash made his way to the back of the bus and sat down still holding Meryl tightly to him. He could not believe their luck in finding a bus in the middle of nowhere, this luck was the difference between life and death for the woman he loved. Ashley sat on the chair in front of him and peered back to check on Meryl, her large eyes filled with worry and...guilt.
"I'm the reason she was hurt." She informed, tears shimmering in her eyes and Vash looked up with a confused look in his eyes.
"Don't blame yourself." He whispered quietly.
"No you don't understand. The first time she was beaten was because she was protecting me from being hit by the slaver." She paused and sniffed back tears, her face sad and ashamed.
"Then at least there was a good reason behind the injuries." Vash forced a smile and let his hand run through Meryl's hair. He noticed that she had let it grow whilst he had been away fighting Knives and realised how much it suited her.
"She was so kind to me." Ashley continued and Vash nodded. He could imagine Meryl caring for others and not herself - another trait he admired about her - she was selfless.
Ashley curled up on the chair and closed her eyes, listening to the steady, rhythmic thrumming of the bus. Sighing in contentment at being warm and lying on something soft she fell asleep, glad that she could stay with Meryl longer. She wanted a chance to play matchmaker, especially since it was so obvious that Vash and Meryl were desperately in love with each other. A small black cat appeared from beneath the chair mewing quietly and leapt up to lean against the child.
***Back at the house***
Knives icy blue eyes scanned the room as he sat up, the bright light blinded him briefly, and as he let his eyes take in his surroundings he spotted Millie. She was standing by the door, face curving with a smile but also with nervousness.
They stared at each other for the longest time, both refusing to back down when suddenly Millie snapped from her trance and approached him. Knives scowled and gritted his teeth trying desperately to stay conscious.
"Mr. Knives." Millie's voice interrupted his pain, "You really need to rest, and your wounds still haven't healed, although I must say they are doing very well." The bright tone of her voice irritated yet attracted him and he looked at her again. 'Must be one of Vash's idiotic friends, but why isn't she afraid of me or angry for what I did to my brother?'
Shifting nervously he tried to ask why she was here but all he managed was a croaky "Why?" Millie's head snapped up and their blue eyes locked. An awkward silence fell upon them but he couldn't break their contact no matter how much he wanted to.
"I'm not sure I know what you mean." She replied with a strained tone. "If you mean; why am I helping you? The answer is simple." She paused and laid a hand on his shoulder, "because Mr. Vash left you in my care." Knives scowled and tugged away from her touch, suddenly crying out in pain.
"You should lie down Mr. Knives, there that's better isn't it. You will heal in no time at all, but I expect you are wondering about Mr. Vash aren't you." She paused and pulled the blankets over him. "You see my friend Meryl was taken by slavers - lets see - about a week ago, and your brother being so kind has gone to rescue her. I'm really starting to worry about them though; I haven't heard a thing since Mr. Vash left. I just hope that after all this, those two will stop being so stubborn and just speak with their hearts."
Knives listened without interest and slowly the darkness of sleep took him. Millie's voice became slurred together so that the words made no sense at all. The last thing he thought before allowing the darkness to win was: 'that girl talks too much"
***Vash's POV***
Ashley had fallen asleep, curled up like a kitten in the seat in front and watching her sleep made me feel even more tired than I was. I wanted to sleep more than anything but I was afraid of leaving Meryl totally unprotected. If she woke up I wanted to be there to encourage her and tell her everything was all right. Sighing I leaned my head against the window and watched the sand flowing by. The warmth of the bus and the steady noise of the engine were making me drowsy and I yawned loudly.
"Don't worry, I'll take care of you." I whispered and made sure she was still wrapped tightly in my coat, pleased at seeing a slight colour returning to her face and her breathing becoming deeper. I stroked the strands of hair away from her face and let out a long breath, she was so beautiful I can't believe I had never noticed before. This gorgeous woman lying in my arms stunned me and I shifted her so that she rested up against my chest, her head placed over my heart. I wrapped her in the circle of my arms and rested my chin against the top of her head, enjoying this close moment we were sharing.
The other slaves had all fallen asleep by now and I finally let my eyes fall closed - this was one battle I could never win - sleep was always stronger. It seemed like my eyes were only closed for a couple of seconds when I was being shaken into consciousness.
"Ten more minutes." I moaned and turned my head away when I heard laughter and my eyes flew open. Ashley was standing in the gangway shaking me lightly, and blinking sleepily I realised we had arrived in town.
"Come on, we need to find a doctor for Meryl." She shouted and tugged at my arm again.
"Okay, okay" I complained and stood up feeling my tortured muscles screaming at me.
Thanking the driver who nodded and made me promise to take care of Meryl I walked alongside Ashley speaking the directions to the house, hoping that Millie was home. It didn't take long to reach the tiny house and opening the door I slipped inside and called out.
"Millie are you in?" I was answered by the sound of footsteps on the stairs and Millie's relieved face, which instantly turned to one of terror at seeing Meryl. Quickly she pushed me to the stairs and ordered me to take her to her room before rushing out to find the doctor. Ashley stood in the living room looking lost but I gave her a smile and disappeared up the flight of stairs.
I lay the beautiful woman on the bed and stroked the hair away from her eyes wishing that they would open and look at me. Then carefully I stepped back knowing that the doctor wouldn't want me to stay and waited by the door, keeping my eyes on her motionless form.
It seemed to take forever for the doctor to arrive but when she did Millie accompanied her into the room and I was forced to wait outside with Ashley. The little girl sat on the sofa looking extremely worried.
"You hungry?" I asked but she shook her head. "Oh come on, you must be and it's important to eat." I went over to the kitchen and found some soup that looked like it might be tasty, whatever you're thinking I am a good cook when I want to be. I made Ashley eat all her food and managed some myself before going upstairs, pausing outside Meryl's room. I could hear soft voices coming from inside and strained my ears to listen.
"She is in a terrible state, the wounds will probably leave terrible scars and her ribs are definitely broken." The doctor was saying and I bit back tears that threatened. I hated to think of my beautiful Meryl with scars of her own - physical and emotional. I continued down the corridor to the bathroom and jumped into the shower hoping that the water would ease the pain in my muscles. It didn't.
***Normal POV***
Millie could not believe how hurt Meryl was, she had a terrible gash down the centre of her chest and two great marks on her back, all of these still bled and looked badly infected. The doctor had taken a lot of time to treat these and wrap bandages around them to keep them from getting worse. Her side was also blotched with black and purple bruises from where her ribs had been smashed. Millie then helped to dress her in a nightshirt and pulled the thick blankets up around her body.
The doctor stood up to leave and closed her eyes in disbelief. "I hope those slavers get what they deserve." She mumbled angrily then turned to Millie, "You need to change the bandages daily and put on the ointment, I will be back tomorrow afternoon to check on her progress. If she wakes up tell her everything is all right and make sure she gets some rest.
Millie sighed and showed the doctor to the door saying thanks and waving goodbye. She turned round and wiped tears away from her blue orbs when she spotted a little girl sitting up at the dining table with an empty bowl set in front of her.
"Well hello there." Millie smiled and walked over to her, taking a seat opposite the tired little child. "Who are you?"
"I'm Ashley, I was trapped with Meryl at the slave place." She sniffed and rubbed at her eyes sleepily.
"I'm Millie, pleased to meet you, where is Vash."
"Shower." She answered tiredly.
"Well I guess we better find a place for you to sleep. Let's see now, Meryl will need someone to watch over her and I'm sure that person will be Vash. So he will sleep in my bed, Knives can't really have anyone in his room but I guess I can since he already knows me. Do you mind sleeping on the couch?"
"Not at all ma'am, it has to be more comfortable than a damp, stone floor."
"That's settled then." Millie nodded her head sharply and stood up to fetch blankets for their new guest.
It was not long before Ashley was tucked up on the sofa, wrapped in blankets and pillows bundled beneath her head. The morning sunshine touched the curtains, which had been closed to allow sleep to come easier.
Vash - as Millie had predicted - had decided to stay with Meryl lying on Millie's bed, which was on the opposite end of the room. He tried to stay awake yet once again the need for rest won and he drifted into a light sleep, ready in case Meryl awoke. The comfort and warmth of the room was a wonderful sensation and his sleep was comfortable apart from the worry of Meryl's condition.
Millie entered Knives's room cautiously and sat on a chair to keep watch on him. The quiet house was unnerving and she found herself calling Shadow inside and keeping him with her. The soft purring of the little creature was a great comfort to her and she found herself falling into a light sleep.
Finally everyone in the house was resting, all was quiet and at peace. Everything and everyone was recovering.
Vash woke up in the late afternoon and stretched lazily enjoying the warmth in his aching muscles. He turned his head peering at Meryl from beneath the strands of tousled blonde hair, his aqua eyes filled with layers of hope and despair. He crossed the room and glanced down at her nervously afraid that if he touched her she would crumble. He let out a long breath and sat on the chair beside her, longing for her to waken and know that she was safe and sound. He lifted the edge of the blanket searching for her hand and lifted it into his own, squeezing it and lacing his fingers with hers.
Her hair had lost its usual shine and although her skin had gained colour it was still very pale, her breathing was definitely stronger but still lacked the certain strength. He squeezed her hand encouragingly and spoke to her about nothing in particular.
"If you wake up soon I promise not to annoy you anymore, I won't tease you even though you look so cute when you're angry." A smile crept onto his face at the thought of her and he raised her small hand to his face brushing it against his skin.
"Meryl please don't leave me..." He murmured and continued talking to her about anything that came to mind to see if anything woke her up. After an hour of talking he gave up, tears brimming in his eyes and his hand holding hers tightly. He heard Millie call him and he decided to leave Meryl in peace, all the noise he was making was probably irritating her. He leaned forward in the chair and kissed her forehead having lost his nerve to kiss her mouth and left the room.
Millie greeted him with a smile and a warm hug before they descended down the stairs. It troubled her to see him so unhappy and she forced him to sit down on a chair so she could make him something to eat.
"Meryl's strong Mr. Vash. She will be fine."
"Yeah."
"The doctor said that most of her wounds would heal but a few would scar. She also said that she is very weak due to lack of nourishment and fatigue as well as the whole experience. Her body is letting her sleep so it can heal that's all."
"I wish I had your positive thinking."
"You can Mr. Vash, just trust in her."
"I do, but sometimes someone has suffered so much that they just don't want to live anymore, the last thing Meryl saw was an evil man beating her, would you want to wake up if it meant wakening to pain and suffering?"
"Well I wouldn't want to give up so easily." Millie sounded a little more nervous. "Oh I forgot to tell you, earlier this morning Knives woke up."
"He did?!"
"Yes, but he is still very weak so I wouldn't worry about it too much."
"When he wakes up I will have to leave with him, that was the plan."
"You can't leave Meryl!" Millie said sternly taking Vash by surprise.
She laid some food on the table and Vash slowly started to eat, Millie joined him at the table too with some food of her own. They ate in silence and then Vash lifted his gaze to look at her. "I don't want to."
"Then don't." Millie said simply, her blue eyes softening slightly.
"You make it sound so easy." He sighed.
"Is it really so hard?"
"Yes, if I stay here then I will hurt her or Knives might."
"But if you go you will hurt her." Millie pointed out and faltered at the sight of his tears. She walked around the table and pulled him into a fierce hug. "Mr. Vash please don't cry, everything will work out alright, but just stay with Meryl until she heals then you can decide what to do.
Vash nodded and wiped his eyes with his sleeve wishing that he knew the answers; he took the last bite of food and leaned back in the chair peering over at Ashley who was still asleep.
"Poor kid." He murmured.
"She is stronger than she looks." Millie stated and Vash agreed before standing up.
"Where are you going?" Millie sounded surprised.
"To go and check on Knives...and Meryl."
"You can stay with her tonight, I'll stay with Knives."
"You're not afraid of him?"
"No, like I said he is still in a lot of pain so he won't try anything for a while. Plus I think you are right about him. There is some good in his heart." That comment brought a smile to Vash's weary face and with a nod he walked upstairs.
He stayed by Meryl's side for the rest of the afternoon and evening never leaving her side. His fingers were interlocked with hers and the other hand stroked her hair idly. He was leaned forward so his shoulder rested on the pillow and he noticed how warm she was and took that to be a good sign.
Moving further towards her he cupped her face in his hand and sighed at how peaceful she looked. He was enchanted by her beauty and was stunned when she moved slightly under his touch.
"Meryl..." He whispered quietly and his heart leapt with joy as her eyes opened slightly. He drew his hand away from her face in slight embarrassment but she didn't seem to notice.
She lay still waiting for her eyes to refocus from the terrible blur and winced at the pain in her head, back, side and chest. She hurt everywhere and suddenly she realised that the ceiling she was staring at wasn't made of stone and dripping with slime. She turned her head and saw someone beside her and gasped, 'it really is him!'
She tried to sit up but cried out in pain and was pushed back down by a pair of strong hands.
"Don't try to move, you'll reopen your wounds again." The soothing voice told her and she nodded. The movement made her head spin wildly but she pushed back the feeling to be sick.
"Are you hungry?" Vash asked nervously and she shook her head very slightly. She peered at him again through blurry eyes and threw herself into the deep pools, which were his eyes. They held in them a promise of life and hope and she needed that more than anything now.
"Is there any pain?" He asked again which she thought was a stupid question but she decided he was trying to break the silence. She cleared her throat and tried to sit up again only to be pinned down once more.
"I'm fine." She croaked and he smiled at her knowing full well that she was in a lot of pain. As her eyes finally cleared she became more aware of her surroundings and noticed that her hand was wrapped in his. She blushed and moved nervously, Vash noticed and dropped her hand onto the bed, his own face reddening.
"You should rest." He stated and moved back the chair to stand up. Meryl felt a sudden panic rise in her at being alone and she reached out, grabbing his gloved hand to stop him from going further. He looked at her questioningly and then with concern as he saw the tears beading in her violet orbs.
"Please don't leave me alone." She begged, her voice wavering. He paused and at first she thought he was going to leave but instead he sat on the edge of the bed and slipped his arms loosely around her.
This action surprised them both but eventually Meryl loosened in his arms and rested against him, her tears wetting the front of his shirt. She was surprised to find that he was crying too, his face nuzzled against her neck. His tears dropped coolly onto her shoulder and his breath tickled her sensitive skin so that she shuddered slightly. 'Why is he crying?' she wondered, 'Have I caused him this pain?' She pulled back slightly and saw Vash's hurt expression at her rejection of him.
"I'm sorry." She winced slightly at the pain in her wounds and he helped her lay back down onto the soft mattress.
"For what?"
"For making you worry, I tried to escape but I...I just." Her tears rose again and he brushed them away gently.
"Shh now Meryl, it's not your fault."
"But it is..."
"Sleep now." He stood up and she reached out to grab his hand again, her face filled with terror. "Don't worry, I'm not leaving." He smiled at her, his aqua eyes sparkling. "I'll be just on the other side of the room if you need me okay." He told her and she nodded and snuggled back into the warmth of the blankets.
"Vash..." She whispered and he turned his head to look at her.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you." With that she fell asleep.
***Meryl's POV***
I woke up with an incredible headache and a stabbing pain in my back, ribs and chest, at first I expected to wake up to the cell and the clanging of chains. I was surprised when the only sound I was met with was the sound of someone breathing deeply. Rolling onto my side I felt my heart melt when I saw who it was. Then I blushed when I remembered the wonderful embrace we had shared last night. He had been so warm and nice to snuggle up against and his breath tickled in such a nice way that I yearned to have that feeling again. It was even more painful knowing that it would never happen again.
I tried to move but was met only with pain and decided it was probably best to lie still, at least in this position I could watch him sleep. The warmth of the bed was intoxicating and I felt my eyelids drooping closed again only to be forced open at the sound of movement.
Vash was standing now, stretching pleasantly so that his back curved and the defined muscles in his arms rippled. I tried my best not to stare but it's hard when the man you desire is standing there doing something like that. I wondered whether I had actually fallen asleep as it seemed strange to me that one minute he was fast asleep and the next he was wide awake.
He turned his head and spotted me, a smile instantly tugging at the sides of his face - he was so beautiful.
"Good morning." He yawned and padded over to me, his eyes glowing with an incredible intensity. I nodded and tried sit up only to lose my balance and topple forwards. My breath caught in my throat as I realised I would hit the floor but what I did land on was much warmer.
"You should be more careful, and I told you not to move." His voice was not stern but slightly playful and I nodded feeling foolish and helpless.
"You hungry yet?" He asked with a yawn but I shook my head, the same nausea still gnawed at my stomach. He shook a finger at me and sat on the side of my bed again, I found myself hoping he would hold me like he had the last time he sat there; but he didn't.
"I'll get something for you anyway." At that remark I knew he was leaving me and I must have seemed like a total paranoid freak the way I clung to him. I can't explain it but every time I thought of being alone a terrible fear clenched my lungs and heart. He looked startled and I blushed and turned my face away as I released my grip on his arm.
The sudden feel of his hand guiding my face back towards him stunned me and he moved closer, his gentle eyes filled with understanding. "I promise I won't be long." He whispered and I nodded feeling even more stupid and pathetic than before. He was probably going to go laugh at me now for acting like such a child.
The door closed and the sound echoed and echoed through my skull like a shockwave stabbing into my head. Gasping in fear I sat up, my fear of being alone numbing the pain in my wounds. I dragged my knees up against my chest and the tears trembled down my face in streams.
The shadows in the room grew and elongated before my eyes, great claws of darkness scraping and reaching for me. I opened my mouth to scream but my throat was tight and I pressed myself against the wall wishing for him to return. I found breathing difficult and drew in great gasps of breath trying to remain conscious afraid that if I blacked out the slavers would come back for me.
'What if they had already found out I was missing and were coming for me' I would be beaten again and again, they might even kill me. My heart pounded louder as I heard creaking outside the window and I let out a painful sob that racked through my body so violently that it took me by complete surprise. 'They've come back!' I wanted to run there and then but my feet were ignoring me and I sat in total silence praying that death would come swiftly when suddenly I felt something touch my shoulder.
I let out a strangled cry and snapped out of my trance hitting out with my fist but was too slow to make contact and flopped backwards. The next thing I knew were two arms wrapping around me to keep me from falling over the other side of the bed and pulling me back into an upright position.
"Hey Meryl I'm so sorry." It was Vash and he was looking very guilty and upset at seeing me so distraught. I tried to hide my horror with a smile, which proved incredibly difficult, and his eyes softened.
"I didn't hear you come in." I told him weakly.
"Meryl it's okay to be afraid you know. After all you've been through its quite understandable." He still has his arms hung limply around my waist, an incredible warmth and comfort emanating from them. I wanted to lie to him and tell him that I was fine and pretend everything was normal, but I couldn't. Those large, beautiful eyes were staring at me, demanding honesty and I cleared my throat.
"Vash, I don't know what's happening to me." I trembled and he lifted his hand from my waist and stroked the side of my face. I leaned into his touch without even realising it and he smiled warmly at me.
"It's okay, you can tell me."
"If they find out I'm gone, they will come back to get me. They will be so angry at me and I don't want you and Millie to get hurt." I forced back fresh tears and squeaked as he pulled me up against him, it would have been perfect if it weren't for the twinge of pain in my wounds.
I'm not sure how long we remained in that tight embrace but it was longer than I could have ever dreamed possible and as I lay and listened to his heartbeat I felt my eyes drooping closed and let the comfort of sleep take me, forgetting that Vash had brought me food.
***Vash's POV***
Pulling the blankets up around her I paused a moment longer and decided that if she wasn't going to eat the food I might as well eat it myself. You can't waste good food so I figured it was the best thing to do. I was also pretty hungry which made the food taste even better - but enough about the food.
I sat down next to Meryl and watched her sleeping soundly and smiled slightly, she was so beautiful when she was asleep - hell she was beautiful all the time - and I felt an ache in the pit of my stomach. She had suffered so much and seeing how terrified she was at being alone terrified me! I wasn't used to seeing capable, sensible and in control Meryl so broken down and afraid.
Tears gathered in my eyes when the door opened and snapped me out of my grief. Millie peeked in and smiled happily at me before stepping inside, Ashley's smaller form stood just outside the room, her eyes large and nervous.
"Ashley wants to check on Meryl." Millie informed and gestured for the girl to follow.
"She's asleep." I informed and Millie nodded and glanced at the empty plate.
"Did she eat that?" Millie seemed sceptical and I shook my head laughing nervously. Ashley seemed to gain more confidence and entered the room fully.
"Well she fell asleep so I thought I would eat it for her." I flushed and rubbed the back of my head nervously. Millie shook her head and taking the plates she left the room.
Ashley stood in the middle of the room; her hair now neatly brushed back and with the dirt gone it glowed with a deep hazel tint. Her brown eyes were large and dark so they looked almost black, she gazed at Meryl with the emotion I knew all too well - guilt - and I smiled encouragingly. It was strange to see the child so strong and Meryl so emotionally and physically weak, it was like a complete role reversal. Yet it seemed that my brave insurance girl had taken all the beatings and pain.
"It's okay." I grinned and she suddenly dashed forwards, tears shimmering in her brown eyes. She looked back up at me with those same guilt filled orbs and suddenly climbed up onto my lap. She snuggled up against me and I smiled at how small she was.
"She will get better wont she?"
"Of course, Meryl is stronger than anyone else I know. She may just take some time to heal that's all."
"What are her injuries?" Ashley enquired.
"Broken ribs and a few cuts and bruises that's all." I lied but if I hadn't known better she saw straight through me.
"Vash..."
"Yeah."
"Will you promise me something?" Her face looked so sad that it almost broke my heart; a child should never have to look so upset. She looked up at me and I nodded slowly, "Of course." I answered and her saddened face turned to one of pure joy although she tired her best to hide it.
"When Meryl gets better..." She paused and I raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah."
"You have to tell her that you love her."
"Wha-what!?" I almost fell from my chair in disbelief at what she had just said, was I really so obvious that even a child could tell how I felt? Sighing I tried to regain my composure and looked at her nervously.
"You heard me! If you don't tell her how you feel then I will tell her myself, you got that Mr?"
"Yes ma'am." I saluted and instantly felt my heart twinge in panic, 'what have I gotten myself into?' At that moment Ashley grinned and slipped off my lap and darted from the room, I sat in stunned silence thinking: 'did she plan that?'
***Normal POV***
Ashley darted into the kitchen where Millie was washing up the plates that she had taken from Meryl's room, a bounce in her step and eyes glinting with success. The tall insurance girl whirled round at hearing the small footsteps and looked questioningly at her. Ashley clambered onto the kitchen counter and grinned.
"Well?"
"Everything is going according to plan captain Millie." She gave a small salute and Millie giggled.
"This is wonderful, those two will be together before they know it."
"Yup, u were right captain, Vash is so easy to manipulate."
"So Private Ashley ready for the next phase of our plan?"
"Definitely."
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Well there is my seventh chapter and I would like to know what you thought of it, I added some fluff but there will be a lot more in the next chapter with the whole matchmaking thing.
So please review cos I want to get over fifty reviews and expect the next chapter a week from now I will do my best to make it as long as I possibly can.
Note: Sorry bout the wait, its been over a week so once again I'm sorry. I was planning another Trigun fan fiction and got carried away with it. So once again let's thank all my lovely reviewers:
ToughCookie: Yes I agree with you, Ashley is going to play a vital role with Vash and Meryl's relationship.
Dreamer_of_Night: (=*.*=) kitty eyes lol. Read on to find out, but don't worry I'm mean but not that mean. *Screaming heard in background* hey I told you to be quiet! *Closes door and shuts out screams*
Silverado6000: *wipes away a tear* thank you so much for your kind review, it means a lot and helps keep me updating faster.
Rainy-days13: here's your update and thanks for the review it means a lot, I hope you enjoy this chappie.
Darkraven: Yeah kisses are all good, here's your update oh kind reviewer *bows*
Pammi: yay hello new reviewer and welcome to my fan fiction, thank you so much for your review. I will keep the Millie/Knives relationship in mind. *hugs*
Dustdragon: here is your update new best friend.
AnImEfREeK: yay another new reviewer, I'm glad you enjoyed my writing, I do try my very best when I write these but the good thing is I get better with practise which means longer and more detailed chapters for you. I'm working on making this my longest chapter yet.
Wow I think that's a record of reviews for me I'm so happy.
'Love and Peace' to you all
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Chapter 7 - Pain
The moons reached out their delicate tendrils of light to gently caress the desert, making it glow with purity. It was this gossamer light that revealed the approaching bus: its yellow paint smooth and shining with the starlight.
The track was always bumpy and the driver tried his best to drive around dips or rocks that blocked the way. Turning in his seat he glanced around the nearly empty bus. Two men and a woman with a child in her lap were the only ones travelling tonight. He himself was curious as to why anyone would want to travel at such a late time. Swivelling around in his chair to look ahead his eyes widened in shock, a small girl was standing on the track waving her arms frantically. Her hair flowed and caught the sparkling stars in their delicate strands and he slammed on the breaks forcing the bus to a screeching, ungraceful stop.
Opening his eyes that he had closed from fear the driver sighed and leaned forward to rest his forehead against the steering wheel. There were a few mumbled complaints from his passengers that were silenced as the driver opened the door to allow the child on. She clambered up to him breathing hard and trying to catch her breath so she could speak.
"Please mister we need your help." She begged as she clung to the door of the bus.
"What do you mean?"
"My friends." The driver followed the direction of her pointing hand and narrowed his eyes to see the friends she was talking about. "Slaves" he breathed in disbelief. The girl nodded and indicated for the others to approach.
"Do you have any money?" The driver asked with a quirk of his eyebrow, already knowing the answer.
"No sir we don't but..."
"Ashley!" A voice yelled and interrupted her, the girl turned to an approaching man with a woman lying motionless in his arms.
The blonde man stepped up next to Ashley and directed his cool gaze towards the driver who was busy staring at the blood that stained the woman's clothing.
"What can I do for you?" The driver asked stupidly.
"I was hoping you could give us a lift back to town." The blonde man stated simply, a slight pleading tone in his weary voice.
"Well..." the driver began but Vash interrupted him knowing that the man was going to give some sort of excuse.
"If you don't help us she will die." He indicated the raven-haired girl whom he held gently in his embrace. The bus driver cast her another long look and sighed, he knew he was going to regret this but he couldn't turn his back on these people. He checked with the few passengers who nodded in agreement and allowed the slaves onboard. In return he gained a smile from each of them.
Vash made his way to the back of the bus and sat down still holding Meryl tightly to him. He could not believe their luck in finding a bus in the middle of nowhere, this luck was the difference between life and death for the woman he loved. Ashley sat on the chair in front of him and peered back to check on Meryl, her large eyes filled with worry and...guilt.
"I'm the reason she was hurt." She informed, tears shimmering in her eyes and Vash looked up with a confused look in his eyes.
"Don't blame yourself." He whispered quietly.
"No you don't understand. The first time she was beaten was because she was protecting me from being hit by the slaver." She paused and sniffed back tears, her face sad and ashamed.
"Then at least there was a good reason behind the injuries." Vash forced a smile and let his hand run through Meryl's hair. He noticed that she had let it grow whilst he had been away fighting Knives and realised how much it suited her.
"She was so kind to me." Ashley continued and Vash nodded. He could imagine Meryl caring for others and not herself - another trait he admired about her - she was selfless.
Ashley curled up on the chair and closed her eyes, listening to the steady, rhythmic thrumming of the bus. Sighing in contentment at being warm and lying on something soft she fell asleep, glad that she could stay with Meryl longer. She wanted a chance to play matchmaker, especially since it was so obvious that Vash and Meryl were desperately in love with each other. A small black cat appeared from beneath the chair mewing quietly and leapt up to lean against the child.
***Back at the house***
Knives icy blue eyes scanned the room as he sat up, the bright light blinded him briefly, and as he let his eyes take in his surroundings he spotted Millie. She was standing by the door, face curving with a smile but also with nervousness.
They stared at each other for the longest time, both refusing to back down when suddenly Millie snapped from her trance and approached him. Knives scowled and gritted his teeth trying desperately to stay conscious.
"Mr. Knives." Millie's voice interrupted his pain, "You really need to rest, and your wounds still haven't healed, although I must say they are doing very well." The bright tone of her voice irritated yet attracted him and he looked at her again. 'Must be one of Vash's idiotic friends, but why isn't she afraid of me or angry for what I did to my brother?'
Shifting nervously he tried to ask why she was here but all he managed was a croaky "Why?" Millie's head snapped up and their blue eyes locked. An awkward silence fell upon them but he couldn't break their contact no matter how much he wanted to.
"I'm not sure I know what you mean." She replied with a strained tone. "If you mean; why am I helping you? The answer is simple." She paused and laid a hand on his shoulder, "because Mr. Vash left you in my care." Knives scowled and tugged away from her touch, suddenly crying out in pain.
"You should lie down Mr. Knives, there that's better isn't it. You will heal in no time at all, but I expect you are wondering about Mr. Vash aren't you." She paused and pulled the blankets over him. "You see my friend Meryl was taken by slavers - lets see - about a week ago, and your brother being so kind has gone to rescue her. I'm really starting to worry about them though; I haven't heard a thing since Mr. Vash left. I just hope that after all this, those two will stop being so stubborn and just speak with their hearts."
Knives listened without interest and slowly the darkness of sleep took him. Millie's voice became slurred together so that the words made no sense at all. The last thing he thought before allowing the darkness to win was: 'that girl talks too much"
***Vash's POV***
Ashley had fallen asleep, curled up like a kitten in the seat in front and watching her sleep made me feel even more tired than I was. I wanted to sleep more than anything but I was afraid of leaving Meryl totally unprotected. If she woke up I wanted to be there to encourage her and tell her everything was all right. Sighing I leaned my head against the window and watched the sand flowing by. The warmth of the bus and the steady noise of the engine were making me drowsy and I yawned loudly.
"Don't worry, I'll take care of you." I whispered and made sure she was still wrapped tightly in my coat, pleased at seeing a slight colour returning to her face and her breathing becoming deeper. I stroked the strands of hair away from her face and let out a long breath, she was so beautiful I can't believe I had never noticed before. This gorgeous woman lying in my arms stunned me and I shifted her so that she rested up against my chest, her head placed over my heart. I wrapped her in the circle of my arms and rested my chin against the top of her head, enjoying this close moment we were sharing.
The other slaves had all fallen asleep by now and I finally let my eyes fall closed - this was one battle I could never win - sleep was always stronger. It seemed like my eyes were only closed for a couple of seconds when I was being shaken into consciousness.
"Ten more minutes." I moaned and turned my head away when I heard laughter and my eyes flew open. Ashley was standing in the gangway shaking me lightly, and blinking sleepily I realised we had arrived in town.
"Come on, we need to find a doctor for Meryl." She shouted and tugged at my arm again.
"Okay, okay" I complained and stood up feeling my tortured muscles screaming at me.
Thanking the driver who nodded and made me promise to take care of Meryl I walked alongside Ashley speaking the directions to the house, hoping that Millie was home. It didn't take long to reach the tiny house and opening the door I slipped inside and called out.
"Millie are you in?" I was answered by the sound of footsteps on the stairs and Millie's relieved face, which instantly turned to one of terror at seeing Meryl. Quickly she pushed me to the stairs and ordered me to take her to her room before rushing out to find the doctor. Ashley stood in the living room looking lost but I gave her a smile and disappeared up the flight of stairs.
I lay the beautiful woman on the bed and stroked the hair away from her eyes wishing that they would open and look at me. Then carefully I stepped back knowing that the doctor wouldn't want me to stay and waited by the door, keeping my eyes on her motionless form.
It seemed to take forever for the doctor to arrive but when she did Millie accompanied her into the room and I was forced to wait outside with Ashley. The little girl sat on the sofa looking extremely worried.
"You hungry?" I asked but she shook her head. "Oh come on, you must be and it's important to eat." I went over to the kitchen and found some soup that looked like it might be tasty, whatever you're thinking I am a good cook when I want to be. I made Ashley eat all her food and managed some myself before going upstairs, pausing outside Meryl's room. I could hear soft voices coming from inside and strained my ears to listen.
"She is in a terrible state, the wounds will probably leave terrible scars and her ribs are definitely broken." The doctor was saying and I bit back tears that threatened. I hated to think of my beautiful Meryl with scars of her own - physical and emotional. I continued down the corridor to the bathroom and jumped into the shower hoping that the water would ease the pain in my muscles. It didn't.
***Normal POV***
Millie could not believe how hurt Meryl was, she had a terrible gash down the centre of her chest and two great marks on her back, all of these still bled and looked badly infected. The doctor had taken a lot of time to treat these and wrap bandages around them to keep them from getting worse. Her side was also blotched with black and purple bruises from where her ribs had been smashed. Millie then helped to dress her in a nightshirt and pulled the thick blankets up around her body.
The doctor stood up to leave and closed her eyes in disbelief. "I hope those slavers get what they deserve." She mumbled angrily then turned to Millie, "You need to change the bandages daily and put on the ointment, I will be back tomorrow afternoon to check on her progress. If she wakes up tell her everything is all right and make sure she gets some rest.
Millie sighed and showed the doctor to the door saying thanks and waving goodbye. She turned round and wiped tears away from her blue orbs when she spotted a little girl sitting up at the dining table with an empty bowl set in front of her.
"Well hello there." Millie smiled and walked over to her, taking a seat opposite the tired little child. "Who are you?"
"I'm Ashley, I was trapped with Meryl at the slave place." She sniffed and rubbed at her eyes sleepily.
"I'm Millie, pleased to meet you, where is Vash."
"Shower." She answered tiredly.
"Well I guess we better find a place for you to sleep. Let's see now, Meryl will need someone to watch over her and I'm sure that person will be Vash. So he will sleep in my bed, Knives can't really have anyone in his room but I guess I can since he already knows me. Do you mind sleeping on the couch?"
"Not at all ma'am, it has to be more comfortable than a damp, stone floor."
"That's settled then." Millie nodded her head sharply and stood up to fetch blankets for their new guest.
It was not long before Ashley was tucked up on the sofa, wrapped in blankets and pillows bundled beneath her head. The morning sunshine touched the curtains, which had been closed to allow sleep to come easier.
Vash - as Millie had predicted - had decided to stay with Meryl lying on Millie's bed, which was on the opposite end of the room. He tried to stay awake yet once again the need for rest won and he drifted into a light sleep, ready in case Meryl awoke. The comfort and warmth of the room was a wonderful sensation and his sleep was comfortable apart from the worry of Meryl's condition.
Millie entered Knives's room cautiously and sat on a chair to keep watch on him. The quiet house was unnerving and she found herself calling Shadow inside and keeping him with her. The soft purring of the little creature was a great comfort to her and she found herself falling into a light sleep.
Finally everyone in the house was resting, all was quiet and at peace. Everything and everyone was recovering.
Vash woke up in the late afternoon and stretched lazily enjoying the warmth in his aching muscles. He turned his head peering at Meryl from beneath the strands of tousled blonde hair, his aqua eyes filled with layers of hope and despair. He crossed the room and glanced down at her nervously afraid that if he touched her she would crumble. He let out a long breath and sat on the chair beside her, longing for her to waken and know that she was safe and sound. He lifted the edge of the blanket searching for her hand and lifted it into his own, squeezing it and lacing his fingers with hers.
Her hair had lost its usual shine and although her skin had gained colour it was still very pale, her breathing was definitely stronger but still lacked the certain strength. He squeezed her hand encouragingly and spoke to her about nothing in particular.
"If you wake up soon I promise not to annoy you anymore, I won't tease you even though you look so cute when you're angry." A smile crept onto his face at the thought of her and he raised her small hand to his face brushing it against his skin.
"Meryl please don't leave me..." He murmured and continued talking to her about anything that came to mind to see if anything woke her up. After an hour of talking he gave up, tears brimming in his eyes and his hand holding hers tightly. He heard Millie call him and he decided to leave Meryl in peace, all the noise he was making was probably irritating her. He leaned forward in the chair and kissed her forehead having lost his nerve to kiss her mouth and left the room.
Millie greeted him with a smile and a warm hug before they descended down the stairs. It troubled her to see him so unhappy and she forced him to sit down on a chair so she could make him something to eat.
"Meryl's strong Mr. Vash. She will be fine."
"Yeah."
"The doctor said that most of her wounds would heal but a few would scar. She also said that she is very weak due to lack of nourishment and fatigue as well as the whole experience. Her body is letting her sleep so it can heal that's all."
"I wish I had your positive thinking."
"You can Mr. Vash, just trust in her."
"I do, but sometimes someone has suffered so much that they just don't want to live anymore, the last thing Meryl saw was an evil man beating her, would you want to wake up if it meant wakening to pain and suffering?"
"Well I wouldn't want to give up so easily." Millie sounded a little more nervous. "Oh I forgot to tell you, earlier this morning Knives woke up."
"He did?!"
"Yes, but he is still very weak so I wouldn't worry about it too much."
"When he wakes up I will have to leave with him, that was the plan."
"You can't leave Meryl!" Millie said sternly taking Vash by surprise.
She laid some food on the table and Vash slowly started to eat, Millie joined him at the table too with some food of her own. They ate in silence and then Vash lifted his gaze to look at her. "I don't want to."
"Then don't." Millie said simply, her blue eyes softening slightly.
"You make it sound so easy." He sighed.
"Is it really so hard?"
"Yes, if I stay here then I will hurt her or Knives might."
"But if you go you will hurt her." Millie pointed out and faltered at the sight of his tears. She walked around the table and pulled him into a fierce hug. "Mr. Vash please don't cry, everything will work out alright, but just stay with Meryl until she heals then you can decide what to do.
Vash nodded and wiped his eyes with his sleeve wishing that he knew the answers; he took the last bite of food and leaned back in the chair peering over at Ashley who was still asleep.
"Poor kid." He murmured.
"She is stronger than she looks." Millie stated and Vash agreed before standing up.
"Where are you going?" Millie sounded surprised.
"To go and check on Knives...and Meryl."
"You can stay with her tonight, I'll stay with Knives."
"You're not afraid of him?"
"No, like I said he is still in a lot of pain so he won't try anything for a while. Plus I think you are right about him. There is some good in his heart." That comment brought a smile to Vash's weary face and with a nod he walked upstairs.
He stayed by Meryl's side for the rest of the afternoon and evening never leaving her side. His fingers were interlocked with hers and the other hand stroked her hair idly. He was leaned forward so his shoulder rested on the pillow and he noticed how warm she was and took that to be a good sign.
Moving further towards her he cupped her face in his hand and sighed at how peaceful she looked. He was enchanted by her beauty and was stunned when she moved slightly under his touch.
"Meryl..." He whispered quietly and his heart leapt with joy as her eyes opened slightly. He drew his hand away from her face in slight embarrassment but she didn't seem to notice.
She lay still waiting for her eyes to refocus from the terrible blur and winced at the pain in her head, back, side and chest. She hurt everywhere and suddenly she realised that the ceiling she was staring at wasn't made of stone and dripping with slime. She turned her head and saw someone beside her and gasped, 'it really is him!'
She tried to sit up but cried out in pain and was pushed back down by a pair of strong hands.
"Don't try to move, you'll reopen your wounds again." The soothing voice told her and she nodded. The movement made her head spin wildly but she pushed back the feeling to be sick.
"Are you hungry?" Vash asked nervously and she shook her head very slightly. She peered at him again through blurry eyes and threw herself into the deep pools, which were his eyes. They held in them a promise of life and hope and she needed that more than anything now.
"Is there any pain?" He asked again which she thought was a stupid question but she decided he was trying to break the silence. She cleared her throat and tried to sit up again only to be pinned down once more.
"I'm fine." She croaked and he smiled at her knowing full well that she was in a lot of pain. As her eyes finally cleared she became more aware of her surroundings and noticed that her hand was wrapped in his. She blushed and moved nervously, Vash noticed and dropped her hand onto the bed, his own face reddening.
"You should rest." He stated and moved back the chair to stand up. Meryl felt a sudden panic rise in her at being alone and she reached out, grabbing his gloved hand to stop him from going further. He looked at her questioningly and then with concern as he saw the tears beading in her violet orbs.
"Please don't leave me alone." She begged, her voice wavering. He paused and at first she thought he was going to leave but instead he sat on the edge of the bed and slipped his arms loosely around her.
This action surprised them both but eventually Meryl loosened in his arms and rested against him, her tears wetting the front of his shirt. She was surprised to find that he was crying too, his face nuzzled against her neck. His tears dropped coolly onto her shoulder and his breath tickled her sensitive skin so that she shuddered slightly. 'Why is he crying?' she wondered, 'Have I caused him this pain?' She pulled back slightly and saw Vash's hurt expression at her rejection of him.
"I'm sorry." She winced slightly at the pain in her wounds and he helped her lay back down onto the soft mattress.
"For what?"
"For making you worry, I tried to escape but I...I just." Her tears rose again and he brushed them away gently.
"Shh now Meryl, it's not your fault."
"But it is..."
"Sleep now." He stood up and she reached out to grab his hand again, her face filled with terror. "Don't worry, I'm not leaving." He smiled at her, his aqua eyes sparkling. "I'll be just on the other side of the room if you need me okay." He told her and she nodded and snuggled back into the warmth of the blankets.
"Vash..." She whispered and he turned his head to look at her.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you." With that she fell asleep.
***Meryl's POV***
I woke up with an incredible headache and a stabbing pain in my back, ribs and chest, at first I expected to wake up to the cell and the clanging of chains. I was surprised when the only sound I was met with was the sound of someone breathing deeply. Rolling onto my side I felt my heart melt when I saw who it was. Then I blushed when I remembered the wonderful embrace we had shared last night. He had been so warm and nice to snuggle up against and his breath tickled in such a nice way that I yearned to have that feeling again. It was even more painful knowing that it would never happen again.
I tried to move but was met only with pain and decided it was probably best to lie still, at least in this position I could watch him sleep. The warmth of the bed was intoxicating and I felt my eyelids drooping closed again only to be forced open at the sound of movement.
Vash was standing now, stretching pleasantly so that his back curved and the defined muscles in his arms rippled. I tried my best not to stare but it's hard when the man you desire is standing there doing something like that. I wondered whether I had actually fallen asleep as it seemed strange to me that one minute he was fast asleep and the next he was wide awake.
He turned his head and spotted me, a smile instantly tugging at the sides of his face - he was so beautiful.
"Good morning." He yawned and padded over to me, his eyes glowing with an incredible intensity. I nodded and tried sit up only to lose my balance and topple forwards. My breath caught in my throat as I realised I would hit the floor but what I did land on was much warmer.
"You should be more careful, and I told you not to move." His voice was not stern but slightly playful and I nodded feeling foolish and helpless.
"You hungry yet?" He asked with a yawn but I shook my head, the same nausea still gnawed at my stomach. He shook a finger at me and sat on the side of my bed again, I found myself hoping he would hold me like he had the last time he sat there; but he didn't.
"I'll get something for you anyway." At that remark I knew he was leaving me and I must have seemed like a total paranoid freak the way I clung to him. I can't explain it but every time I thought of being alone a terrible fear clenched my lungs and heart. He looked startled and I blushed and turned my face away as I released my grip on his arm.
The sudden feel of his hand guiding my face back towards him stunned me and he moved closer, his gentle eyes filled with understanding. "I promise I won't be long." He whispered and I nodded feeling even more stupid and pathetic than before. He was probably going to go laugh at me now for acting like such a child.
The door closed and the sound echoed and echoed through my skull like a shockwave stabbing into my head. Gasping in fear I sat up, my fear of being alone numbing the pain in my wounds. I dragged my knees up against my chest and the tears trembled down my face in streams.
The shadows in the room grew and elongated before my eyes, great claws of darkness scraping and reaching for me. I opened my mouth to scream but my throat was tight and I pressed myself against the wall wishing for him to return. I found breathing difficult and drew in great gasps of breath trying to remain conscious afraid that if I blacked out the slavers would come back for me.
'What if they had already found out I was missing and were coming for me' I would be beaten again and again, they might even kill me. My heart pounded louder as I heard creaking outside the window and I let out a painful sob that racked through my body so violently that it took me by complete surprise. 'They've come back!' I wanted to run there and then but my feet were ignoring me and I sat in total silence praying that death would come swiftly when suddenly I felt something touch my shoulder.
I let out a strangled cry and snapped out of my trance hitting out with my fist but was too slow to make contact and flopped backwards. The next thing I knew were two arms wrapping around me to keep me from falling over the other side of the bed and pulling me back into an upright position.
"Hey Meryl I'm so sorry." It was Vash and he was looking very guilty and upset at seeing me so distraught. I tried to hide my horror with a smile, which proved incredibly difficult, and his eyes softened.
"I didn't hear you come in." I told him weakly.
"Meryl it's okay to be afraid you know. After all you've been through its quite understandable." He still has his arms hung limply around my waist, an incredible warmth and comfort emanating from them. I wanted to lie to him and tell him that I was fine and pretend everything was normal, but I couldn't. Those large, beautiful eyes were staring at me, demanding honesty and I cleared my throat.
"Vash, I don't know what's happening to me." I trembled and he lifted his hand from my waist and stroked the side of my face. I leaned into his touch without even realising it and he smiled warmly at me.
"It's okay, you can tell me."
"If they find out I'm gone, they will come back to get me. They will be so angry at me and I don't want you and Millie to get hurt." I forced back fresh tears and squeaked as he pulled me up against him, it would have been perfect if it weren't for the twinge of pain in my wounds.
I'm not sure how long we remained in that tight embrace but it was longer than I could have ever dreamed possible and as I lay and listened to his heartbeat I felt my eyes drooping closed and let the comfort of sleep take me, forgetting that Vash had brought me food.
***Vash's POV***
Pulling the blankets up around her I paused a moment longer and decided that if she wasn't going to eat the food I might as well eat it myself. You can't waste good food so I figured it was the best thing to do. I was also pretty hungry which made the food taste even better - but enough about the food.
I sat down next to Meryl and watched her sleeping soundly and smiled slightly, she was so beautiful when she was asleep - hell she was beautiful all the time - and I felt an ache in the pit of my stomach. She had suffered so much and seeing how terrified she was at being alone terrified me! I wasn't used to seeing capable, sensible and in control Meryl so broken down and afraid.
Tears gathered in my eyes when the door opened and snapped me out of my grief. Millie peeked in and smiled happily at me before stepping inside, Ashley's smaller form stood just outside the room, her eyes large and nervous.
"Ashley wants to check on Meryl." Millie informed and gestured for the girl to follow.
"She's asleep." I informed and Millie nodded and glanced at the empty plate.
"Did she eat that?" Millie seemed sceptical and I shook my head laughing nervously. Ashley seemed to gain more confidence and entered the room fully.
"Well she fell asleep so I thought I would eat it for her." I flushed and rubbed the back of my head nervously. Millie shook her head and taking the plates she left the room.
Ashley stood in the middle of the room; her hair now neatly brushed back and with the dirt gone it glowed with a deep hazel tint. Her brown eyes were large and dark so they looked almost black, she gazed at Meryl with the emotion I knew all too well - guilt - and I smiled encouragingly. It was strange to see the child so strong and Meryl so emotionally and physically weak, it was like a complete role reversal. Yet it seemed that my brave insurance girl had taken all the beatings and pain.
"It's okay." I grinned and she suddenly dashed forwards, tears shimmering in her brown eyes. She looked back up at me with those same guilt filled orbs and suddenly climbed up onto my lap. She snuggled up against me and I smiled at how small she was.
"She will get better wont she?"
"Of course, Meryl is stronger than anyone else I know. She may just take some time to heal that's all."
"What are her injuries?" Ashley enquired.
"Broken ribs and a few cuts and bruises that's all." I lied but if I hadn't known better she saw straight through me.
"Vash..."
"Yeah."
"Will you promise me something?" Her face looked so sad that it almost broke my heart; a child should never have to look so upset. She looked up at me and I nodded slowly, "Of course." I answered and her saddened face turned to one of pure joy although she tired her best to hide it.
"When Meryl gets better..." She paused and I raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah."
"You have to tell her that you love her."
"Wha-what!?" I almost fell from my chair in disbelief at what she had just said, was I really so obvious that even a child could tell how I felt? Sighing I tried to regain my composure and looked at her nervously.
"You heard me! If you don't tell her how you feel then I will tell her myself, you got that Mr?"
"Yes ma'am." I saluted and instantly felt my heart twinge in panic, 'what have I gotten myself into?' At that moment Ashley grinned and slipped off my lap and darted from the room, I sat in stunned silence thinking: 'did she plan that?'
***Normal POV***
Ashley darted into the kitchen where Millie was washing up the plates that she had taken from Meryl's room, a bounce in her step and eyes glinting with success. The tall insurance girl whirled round at hearing the small footsteps and looked questioningly at her. Ashley clambered onto the kitchen counter and grinned.
"Well?"
"Everything is going according to plan captain Millie." She gave a small salute and Millie giggled.
"This is wonderful, those two will be together before they know it."
"Yup, u were right captain, Vash is so easy to manipulate."
"So Private Ashley ready for the next phase of our plan?"
"Definitely."
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Well there is my seventh chapter and I would like to know what you thought of it, I added some fluff but there will be a lot more in the next chapter with the whole matchmaking thing.
So please review cos I want to get over fifty reviews and expect the next chapter a week from now I will do my best to make it as long as I possibly can.