"How about this one?" Naomi held out yet another outrageous outfit.

Focused on a particular style of shorts, Rae merely turned to glance over her shoulder. It only took one look, "Absolutely not."

Her friend rolled her eyes with a vexed huff. "Oh come on Rae! Every girl needs a bikini for the summer, and for these prices it's practically a steal!"

Filing through a different clearance section, she shook her head as she tried to withhold a smile. "Trying to appeal to my interest in saving isn't going to work. I think I survived the last nineteen years just fine without one," she countered, swiping another hangar down the rack.

Jutting out her hip, Naomi stared at her hard. "Just buy one," she insisted, once again dangling the skimpy attire in front of her face.

Side-stepping away, she gave her friend a tired look. "I'm not comfortable with wearing something that shows all of me, you know?"

Naomi was quiet a moment, then she shook her head in disagreement. "You are one of the most athletic people I know, Rae. And as competitive as hell. This will just enhance the hard work you've put into staying in such great shape." Holding it out to her, she pressed, "If you don't buy it for yourself, I will."

Rae hated when she pulled this card. Of course she wasn't going to let her friend buy it with the poor wages she received at the local cafe. Most of the time she just paid using her monthly allowance anyway, and Rae was not going to have her break into those savings for her sake. Besides, just because she would now own a bikini did not mean she was going to wear it, and Naomi would never be the wiser. A heavy sigh was her giveaway as she took the swimwear with resignation. She didn't miss Naomi's victorious smile as she turned down the adjacent aisle.

"You gotta live a little!" she laughed at her downcast expression. "Come on, let's checkout. There's one more store I wanted to hit before we grab a smoothie."

Following her lead, Rae considered flinging the bright red nylon cloth onto a random rack, but decided against it for her friend's sake.

After paying for the shorts and the bikini, she stuffed the receipt in her single shopping bag, and followed after a struggling Naomi.

Her friend seemed to feel obligated to purchase something from every store they walked into. And that always led to interesting situations that never ceased to entertain her, such as right now. It appeared that she was having a difficult time squeezing out of the glass door with six bags in hand. Each crease in her fisted fingers were likely screaming from the weight. And it only proved to be burdensome the longer they walked; the bulkier bags constantly bumping against her thighs as she walked.

Rae eyed her with an amused smile, "Need a hand?"

Naomi, as stubborn as ever, promptly declined. "You take care of yourself and I'll handle my own luggage thank you!"

"Yup, me and my one bag," she teased with a smirk.

"Hey, it's not my fault you didn't buy much of anything. You should thank me now that you got a hot bikini to add to your lacking wardrobe."

She almost tripped over herself at such an inane statement. Even if it were partially true, it was suited for her needs, and right at the top of her list was feeling comfortable and confident. What more could she want? Clothing that showed more of herself didn't exactly fit either of those necessities. Feigning insult to her words, she eyed her friend carefully. "Who said my wardrobe was lacking?"

As if reading right through her, Naomi scoffed, "Oh please, I bet, if given the chance you'd live in a sweater and leggings for the rest of your life."

Rae took it with stride and grinned, "Doesn't sound so bad to me. And since when did you become the fashion queen?"

Naomi, as quick as ever, shot back, "Since my friend showed up to a pool party wearing a t-shirt and jeans."

"A pool party doesn't mean you have to get in the pool!"

"That's exactly what it means!" she laughed in exasperation. "Come on Rae! You gotta break out of the old routine and live a little!"

How to explain such a thing. Rae shrugged, unable to come up with any other excuse except, "I'm just not big on showing my body." She didn't like the vulnerability that came with it, but it was the simple truth. Scars could be explained, but not to the degree she had them. Baring her body would only lead to more questions and as she had come to learn, questions were dangerous, especially if you weren't a very good liar. And her poker face was less than stellar. The last thing she wanted was to reveal something that would put the both of them at risk.

Noami slowed in her pace, a look of concern overtaking her previous teasing as realization came over her. "Oh Rae I'm so sorry. It never even occurred to me that you-"

She cut in before she could finish. "It's okay, really. There's no need to apologize."

"No but if I knew that was the reason you didn't want-"

"I know," Rae placed hand on her shoulder, stopping them in the middle of the corridor. "It's fine, really. I'm not offended." Naomi wasn't so convinced. Hooking arms with her friend, she tugged her along. "Come on, we came out here to have a good time, right? Let's do exactly that."

"If you're sure," she nudged her supportively.

"I am, besides," she chuckled, "I believe we still have one more shop to visit before lunch."

Naomi's eyes brightened immensely at the thought. "Absolutely!"

As they hurried along, the constant background noise of other shoppers filled the comfortable silence between the two of them. To some, who didn't like crowds, it may have been a sound they didn't enjoy, but for Rae it was just the opposite. It meant safety. She sighed happily. Spending quality time with her best friend was healing to her soul. After trying to explain where she was going to the Big Guy, this was exactly what she needed.

Not Big Guy, Tomak, she substituted her nickname for him. She was still astonished that he gave her his name. And above all, she could hardly understand why she was so giddy about it. It's not like he gave her the secrets of the universe or anything. He was a regular normal guy merely wrapped up in a unique sort of package. That's all. An alien dude. Thinking this, a small smile crept over her lips.

Earlier that morning, he had surprised her by coming out of his room and sitting at the dining table during breakfast. She recalled chewing her cereal and watching with intrigue as he tinkered with his wrist gauntlet, sitting hunched over and dwarfing the normal-sized wooden chair. It amazed her that it was holding up well under his weight.

Refocusing on his fully engaged expression as he continued his intricate task, she took note of his diligence and surprising patience. The gauntlet itself looked pretty busted, and it should after taking such a hit in the ravine. Tomak shouldn't even be alive from such an impact, let alone be able to work with such a device. But despite its appearance, he wasn't phased. He seemed to be trying to make the best of it.

Carefully swallowing another mouthful, she leaned forward on her elbows and decided to make conversation. "How goes repairs?" she asked tentatively.

His predatory eyes flicked up to hers, then back down.

She wondered if he was even going to grace her with a response, but then watched with open curiosity as he raised his arm to rest on the table top. Their eyes met and his mandibles fluttered in a way she couldn't decipher. At the time she didn't understand why that look he was giving her made her apprehensive, but there was almost a hidden devilish intention lurking in those eyes. She soon found out why, because with a sudden intensity, he tightened his fist and with a snap, out came two serrated blades.

The unexpected and lightning action made Rae jump so hard she felt an electrical tingle pulse under the surface of her skin. And to add to her humiliating reaction, a yelp of surprise had somehow slipped past her defenses. It wasn't a moment later when his deep clicking chuckle met her ears. She quickly looked up into his amused amber eyes with blooming anger.

She went to yell at him but her attention was swiftly brought down to her surprisingly soaked pants. "Shoot!" she scrambled for the paper towels, grabbing a handful and pressing them down to soak up the pool of milk that was spilled from her unfinished bowl. "What is wrong with you?!" she shot him a glare.

Sheathing the wicked blades with another snap of his wrist, he crossed his meaty arms over his chest. His expression was one she had not witnessed before, but it would forever be ingrained in her brain as she scowled at him. He was thoroughly enjoying himself. Good for him.

Not amused, she rolled her eyes, sarcastically replying. "Should I expect more jump scares in the future?"

Those expressive orbs said it all, narrowing in relished promise. "Perhapss."

She fought against an emerging smile. "Don't you dare! I am not playing that game with you, now be nice!" She wanted to be mad at him, every fiber of her being wanted to, especially with the prospect of being scared by this massive beast on a regular basis. But it was the way he looked at her for some reason that hit her funny.

Again with that baritone chuckle. She didn't know why it was such a pleasing sound and that irritated her even more so.

"I mean it!" she insisted, now dabbing the remaining paper towel to her lap. "Gosh, of all the jeans you had to dirty these ones."

He snorted, unbothered by her predicament and without a care in the world. To nail that point home to her, he merely returned to his 'oh-so-important' project, as if nothing happened in the first place.

Gathering and cleaning up her side of the table with a huff, she brought her things to the kitchen where she began washing her bowl and spoon in the sink. She hated a messy dish-filled kitchen, so she tried to make it a habit to keep up with the dishes after every meal. But as she scrubbed, she peered under her eyelashes, discreetly watching Tomak, her initial annoyance dimmering some.

Those blunt claws on the tips of his fingers effortlessly fidgeted with an open panel on the side of the gauntlet encompassed around his forearm. It was such an odd sight.

She tried not to judge a book by its cover, but the way this guy was built; his whole upper body was bare for all to see and it showed tell-tale signs of battle and struggle. His physique alone told her that he was a powerhouse of muscle, a wall that was unstoppable, but now seeing him leaning back all relaxed working on a very high-tech project, she wondered if this was basic training for him or if he was extremely intelligent with the added bonus of being jacked like some greek god.

Her eyes had shamelessly moved from his hands to the muscle that was flexing in his impressive arm, before traveling further up to pass over his face. Overcome with curiosity, she thought about his name. She really couldn't see him with any other name now. Then again, she didn't really know of any alien ones other than maybe ET, which technically wasn't even a name, or Tsu'tey like in Avatar. Besides, those were human configurations of names. Tomak seemed to be the perfect fit for him. It was a sturdy name that captured the unique side of him as well as his bulk and dominance. "Tomak," she really liked how it sounded.

Amber eyes locked with her brown ones. The very air from her lungs dissipated. She said his name out loud. Whoops. Now he was looking at her expectantly. She felt so stupid now. "S-sorry, I didn't mean to say that out loud. I was just- it's a nice name." She sealed her lips shut, whilst forcing her eyes down to her soapy task in embarrassed shame. Idiot.

Movement, had her peering up in time to see Tomak standing up, getting ready to likely go back to his room. To a less awkward work space, she added silently in remorse. Silently barrating herself, she almost missed the trilling sound of his voice calling to her.

"Rae."

That deep bass voice forced her to meet his gaze once more. He had said it with a hint of humor laced in there as well. It was almost mocking, and she smiled realizing he was giving it right back to her, using her name for no apparent reason. He was unbelievable.

"Okay, what has gotten you into such a blissful mood all of a sudden?"

Naomi's voice jarred her out of her contemplation. "Huh?"

"Huh?" Naomi mocked with a tittering laugh. "What's going on with you?"

Feeling her cheeks heat a little bit, Rae tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear. "What do you mean? I'm hanging out with my best friend. What else could make me happier?"

Naomi stared at her for a few moments longer than usual, as if trying to unravel the complex knots that held her hidden secrets together. "Please, as if shopping is your favorite thing in the world, because we both know that's a lie."

Her forehead creased with her growing confusion. "What are we even talking about?"

A knowing smirk slowly formed on Naomi's face, but she decided against furthering the argument. Sooner or later she would get the answers she so seeked.

Still perplexed by her friend's confusing accusation, Rae found immense relief when a helpful distraction came to her rescue as they passed a well-known store. She began to stray towards one of its display windows, her eyes roving over the bright colored attire being worn by the mannequin model.

Seeing her become so enraptured, Naomi followed close behind. "What is it?"

Rae was slow to speak at first, still looking over the material. "...I need something from here." Peering over her slender shoulder, she reassured, "It should only take a second."

Smiling eagerly, Naomi followed her inside.

Hurrying over to a specific rack in the back of the store, Rae's eyes searched the tags for a specific size in the desired color. It would have taken only a second if Naomi hadn't demanded she try a dozen other options on. She completed another tiresome 360-turn, only to be stopped as they faced.

"I don't know about this zipper," Naomi mused, tugging on it experimentally.

Rae shook her head with a tired laugh. "Why are you so concerned? It looks fine, besides, the next time I wear it you will only be seeing the back of it," she taunted with skillful ease, shedding the coat as Naomi took in her words.

"You really did hit your head too hard," she snickered, "because there is no way you're going to win next time."

"I'm sorry, what was that? Sounded like the voice of defeat to me." Rae made a hasty exit towards the cashier, before Naomi could react.

"Alright, that settles it!" she hollered after her, unbothered by the onlooking shoppers. "You're buying the smoothies this time!"

"Fair enough," she laughed good-heartedly.

It took another good half-hour of Naomi trying on clothes before she could actually make good on that promise.

Walking over to their corner table, Rae gently placed the orange-colored cup on the smooth surface, sliding it towards Naomi who was preoccupied with her phone. Taking the seat in front of her, Rae took a sip of her own sweet treat as she calmly observed the outdoors, happy that Naomi had picked out a window seat.

"Sorry."

Rae looked up in time to see her friend putting her phone down and grabbing her strawberry-mango flavored smoothie. "No worries," she shrugged, noticing her friend's phone chiming with what was most likely another text notification. Before her screen closed out again, she caught a glimpse of a man with dark features and a pearly white smile, almost a perfect match to Naomi's. His expression that was caught on camera was one of excitement, as if he just conquered the world. A pained memory flashed in her eyes. Rae knew this man well. She smiled sadly, "How's everything been going at home? Are you all doing okay?"

Knowing exactly what she was referring to, she nodded gratefully, "We're better than we were then. It was never the same, you know?" she met her sincere gaze. "After Dad passed…" she took a heavy breath, "I don't think any of us fully recovered, but with Jake finally moving out, I thought it would get easier, but now Mom's dating this guy and…" she didn't finish. She didn't have to.

Rae flattened her lips in a hard pressed line, trying her best not to show the sorrow her friend was feeling. "It's hard," she agreed with a sad frown.

Tears began to form and before they ruined her mascara, Naomi quickly began dabbing at the inner commissure of her eyes with the corner of a napkin. "I'm happy for her, it's just…" she sniffed, releasing a sigh as she stared long and hard at her drink.

Rae watched her carefully. "It feels too soon."

She nodded. "He's just… he will never be him," she folded her arms, bringing the straw back up to her mouth, tears still threatening to spill.

Leaning forward, Rae grabbed Naomi's wrist, holding her hand reassuringly, "He shouldn't replace your Dad," she spoke soothingly and with reassurance. "Just don't be too hard on him, no one could possibly fill that role. And I'm so sorry that you've had to bear all this. I'm always here for you, whenever you need to talk."

Naomi gave a watery smile. "I know you are and thank you," she wiped her nose. "I was not expecting this to happen. Sorry," she sniffed. "We should be having fun, not… this." She blew her nose forcefully, as if that would disperse the suddenly gloomy atmosphere.

Rae smiled softly, "You really don't have anything to apologize for."

"I do though!" she countered. "I mean, you would understand better than anyone, especially with what you went through. I can't even imagine what that must have felt like."

Although the story was different to how Naomi knew it, there was still much the same. The physical abuse, the endangering of her life, the fear, the loss. Glimpses of her cell littered her thoughts. She closed her eyes briefly, blocking it out. "It's in the past, where it belongs. But as awful and scary as it was, I still wouldn't change a thing."

Naomi gave her an odd look. The question 'why' was evident in her expression.

"If it never happened, I would never have met you."

"Oh stop it," she leaned over the table and smacked her shoulder, "you're gonna make me blush!"

Rae laughed. "What! It's technically true! I would have never moved to Maine, never gone to that high school, never dropped those books," she grinned in memory.

Naomi shook her head, causing her braided hair to sway as a small smile grew. "I suppose that's one way of looking at it."

It was the only way Rae could look at it. It was the only positive outcome. There was no other gain from her imprisonment.

Sipping from her cup, she allowed the cold beverage to divert her thoughts. Taking another slow sweep of the landscape, from the frost tipped lawn and the empty outdoor tables, to the stone path likely leading to the vast parking lot further down. Although it looked nice out, it was still a bit chilly this April, the weather not yet on the brink of turning warm, though she hoped that would change soon. She much preferred the outdoors. A preference she knew Naomi shared in common.

"Alright, change of subject," her friend suddenly piped up with renewed interest. A devious smirk painted her face.

Sucking in another mouthful of her drink, Rae caught the artful glint of something in Naomi's eyes and it wasn't unlike the expression Tomak had given her this morning. She tensed in apprehension.

Dramatically Naomi laced her fingers in glee and leaned forward on her elbows while holding her gaze. "So who is he?"

Her eyebrows dropped into a frown, completely thrown off by such a question. She shook her head, perhaps hearing wrong. "I'm sorry, who?"

Naomi 'tsked' disapprovingly. "Don't even try playing dumb, it doesn't suit you."

Still shaking her head, she tried to comprehend the true meaning behind her friend's sudden question. Coming up with nothing she gave up. "What are you talking about?"

She shrugged nonchalantly, a smile dancing over her radiant features. "I'm just sayin', I swear I've seen that look you had on earlier before. And you dated my brother," she teased, "so I think I know it pretty well by now."

Oh my god, what? "Look?" she suddenly asked, sitting up straighter. "What look?"

"You know the," and Naomi reenacted it for her, her head tilting back, eyes softening with obvious intent, before straightening with a smirk. "That face," she laughed.

Rae stared at her for a good few moments, her jaw clenching as she thought about who had been occupying her mind as of late. She ran her fingers through her hair in an attempt to school her expression. "First, I did not make that face. And second," she ignored Naomi's scoff, "there isn't anybody in my life like that. I don't know why you don't believe me, but it's true." She drew another long drink from her cup, almost willing it to give her a brain freeze just so her attention could be drawn to something else.

The corners of her friend's lips curled upward, examining her closely. "Sure," she played along, "then I guess you won't mind if I reintroduce you to a friend?"

Rae released the straw with an uneasy sigh, "I thought we were over this."

"Look, I get it, Jake was a complete douchebag, but it's not healthy to live in the past. It's time you move on. Besides, Damon has been really worried about you and he's dying to see you again."

"Damon," she repeated with a frown. "Now why does that name sound familiar?"

"Well it should! You remember, right? The ski resort?"

Then it came flooding back to her. "Oh, Mr. Doe Re Mi? Naomi, please tell me you did not set me up on a date with him."

"Do Re Mi?" she questioned with a laugh.

"Yeah, you know, like the song." She pinched the bridge of her nose and shut her eyes as she tried to bury the memory. "It's a long story."

"One you will have to tell me some time for sure. And yes, I did. Come on, do yourself a favor! Besides, he's really sweet and a bit of a cutie. He might just be the one," she grinned with an almost sing-songy voice.

It was moments like these that Rae wished her ability granted her the power of invisibility. It would make these uncomfortable conversations more avoidable. She fisted her napkin at the absurdity of it all. "There's never 'The One.' And if he's so great, why don't you take him?"

Naomi shrugged in a harmless gesture. "I've got my eye elsewhere, besides you're the one that needs this more than me."

Rae shook her head. "I'm better off alone."

"Don't say that! No one is better off alone," she chided disapprovingly. "Don't let Jake's actions speak for all guys. He was an idiot for thinking so low of you."

Rae pushed her cup to the side, "Look, I know you're trying to help, but I don't need a guy to make me happy, Naomi."

Her friend's eyes softened immensely. "Whatever you say, but at least give this guy a chance. He might surprise you."

There was no backing out of this. Instead of fighting it like she wanted to, Rae had learned that when it came to Naomi, it was better to just go with it and escape the situation later. "Fine, but after this, no more setting me up. Got it?"

"Deal," she agreed.

A familiar buzzing filled her sweater's front pocket. Quickly she pulled it out and saw the number. It was work calling. Oh, right.

Naomi acknowledged her worried expression immediately. She frowned, eyeing the phone. "Is everything okay?"

"It will be," she assured, getting up from her seat. "I'll be right back, I just need to take this."

Anxiety quickly took hold of her heart. She wasn't ready to come back to work, and neither was she ready to be let go. Life had dropped her in a complicated place that left little room for error. She had yet to explain to Tomak the need for her to leave for work and the reassurance she needed in return that once she came back she would find her house still in good condition. It's not like she could explain all that to her boss.

Once she was outside, and away from prying eyes, she hesitantly accepted the call and lifted the flat screen to her ear. "Hello?"

"Hi Rachel," the deep and familiar voice was almost soothing.

"Hi Dr. Gerall, I'm really sorry I haven't been in."

"Me too," he spoke softly. "I really wish I could be calling on better terms, but you have to understand I have patients that need scheduling and Linda is booked, filling in for the both of you. I want to know I can rely on you, but this is extremely unprofessional."

She winced, surprised by the weight of his words. "I… I understand."

"And for that reason, I have to fire you. You can come in on Monday to pick up your last paycheck."

"I understand. Thank you for contacting me." She hung up and dropped her arm to her side, staring off into nothingness. She knew this would happen, so why did she feel like crying? A heavy sigh flew out of her parted lips, her eyes suddenly feeling very itchy. No, she would not cry in public. She would not embarrass herself further. Maybe a short walk would numb the pain of it all.

Before Naomi could find out, she hurried away from the exit and walked down the paved path that curved around the building, her eyes becoming heavier with tears as she was overcome with the emotions.

Talking about boyfriends and now work, she felt like she was sinking deeper and deeper into her pit of depression. Inhaling sharply, she let the cool air cut through her negative thoughts before breathing out. There wasn't a cloud of smoke made from her actions, perhaps it was warming afterall.

She wiped her face dry from the silent tears that had fallen, walking further along the path. Then it happened. A small, almost indiscernible sound made its way to her ears. The sound of a rumbly purr. Her breathing hitched as she stopped, swiftly looking up to the tippity top of the mall's roof. There she saw it, the wavering cloak of a certain someone.

"Tomak?!" she stared up at him.

In answer, his invisible form leapt down, landing almost silently in front of her. Then to her horror, he deactivated his cloak.

Eyes wide with fear, Rae swiveled her head to make certain they were alone. "Bwhat- what are you doing here?!" She faced him once more, seeing he had in fact dressed up for the occasion. He was decked out in his armor and weapons, looking about ready to kill.

He held his arm out horizontally, gesturing to the damaged gauntlet he was working on this morning. "Field test," he answered.

She looked back toward the way she came. "You cannot be out in broad daylight like this!" Did he realize what danger he was putting himself in, how much danger he was putting them both in?

He stood there, completely unphased.

"Hey Rae?! Is everything alright?"

Hearing Naomi's voice closing in sent a new wave of panic to wash over her. Tomak's demeanor changed as he shifted his weight, now looking over her head.

"What are you doing?!" she demanded incredulously. "Don't just stand there! Hide!" she pushed at him, frantically gesturing to a bushy area that might be enough to conceal him.

Tomak looked down at her and growled; the muscles in his arms and chest bunching up.

No-no-no-no, not this! "You have to leave right now! Go on! Go!" she shooed at him.

"Rae?"

"Naomi!" she whipped around, feeling suddenly out of breath. "Look, I can explain."

Naomi came from around the corner, revealing herself. A frown of concern was evident on her face. "Explain? Is there something wrong?"

"Um…" she hesitantly turned back towards Tomak only to be greeted by nothing. A relieved smile overtook her stressed features.

"Who were you talking to?"

"Talking?" she turned back to her friend, feeling more flushed than ever. "Oh, uh no one! It was a… a fly. Yeah, i-it was just dive bombing me."

"...Oh. Are you sure you're okay?"

Reminding herself to breathe, she relaxed her shoulders and nodded. "I'm yeah, I'm fine."

"Really?" she stepped closer, "Because you look insane, like, maniac insane. That must have been some fly."

Rae tensed as her friend closed in. She had no idea where Tomak was, but it wasn't just him that she was worried about, having no idea how the quick-tempered male would react to Naomi if she did in fact discover him. "Oh you know," she got the ball rolling as she herded Naomi away, "they seem to be getting bigger every year" she pointedly looked backwards, hoping Tomak was listening. "You just caught me off guard, that's all."

"I bet. Not everyone talks to flies, Rae." Naomi's expression softened, "But seriously, are you sure you're okay? You said you'd be back, but then I saw you walking outside, so I wasn't sure-?"

"Everything's okay." Her thoughts drifted to the phone call she received, "I… I just got fired a couple minutes ago, so I needed some air."

Naomi spun on her, "Oh Rae, I'm so sorry."

"It's fine."

She shook her head, "You keep saying that, but it's not fine."

Rae shrugged, "I was probably going to quit at some point anyway." It was true, but the plan would have been to do so after she figured out her next job. This just made it much more complicated.

"Why? Was it that bad?"

She shook her head. "It just wasn't my fit. I dunno, they were nice and all but I don't exactly want to sit and do paperwork for the rest of my life."

"I hear that," Naomi bobbed her head in agreement. "But if you need work, the cafe is always looking for help. And if you dress for it, I think you might make some good tips," she teased with a grin.

That wasn't the worst idea in the world, but Rae wasn't about to settle until she checked out her options. "Thanks, I'll think about it."

"Sure. Oh and here," Naomi handed the cup she had left behind, eyeing her carefully as she did so.

Rae accepted it gratefully only to be surprised at how light it was. She peeked inside to find it empty. Her steps slowed. "What happened to my smoothie?" she accused with a laugh, looking at the perpetrator who was failing to look innocent.

Naomi frowned in confusion, easing closer to have a look. "Oh yeah," she took a peek, as if seeing it for the first time. "You were taking so long I had finished mine and yours was just begging me to have a sip."

"A sip?" she asked incredulously, taking another look. "More like twenty sips. And I was gone for maybe five minutes!"

Naomi went with her story. "Like I said, it was begging me saying, 'Rae doesn't care for my sweet citrus flavor. Eat me. Eat me!'" she spoke animatedly, unable to hold back her contagious smile.

"Right," Rae grinned, "'cuz food talks."

"Well apparently so do flies," she shot back.


Tomak observed the two banter back and forth, not unlike the yautja females he was familiar with. They never usually shared such conversations with males, making this all the more interesting. Seeing this female again with Rae, he could only assume they were friends. He made note of this, marking her as not a threat.

His eyes scanned Rae as she seemed to lead her friend away from his position. Deciding to take the opportunity presented to him, he stealthily leapt up and grabbed the ledge of the structure, pulling him up and over before squatting down to get a better view.

His new companion turned back, clearly looking for him before her eyes lifted to his.

"I should be leaving soon," she suddenly said to her friend, though still holding his gaze.

Was that message for him as well?

"Okay," the other replied rather somberly. "You wanna check out one last store before we go?"

Rae's face crinkled into a bubbly smile, "Are you sure you can carry a few more bags?"

Did he cut her little outing short? Shame, as he was looking forward to seeing how she composed herself in her society. She was a unique little thing after all. Why others of her kind could not see that, he didn't know. As he followed her movements inside the building, peeking through the glass panes, questions began to formulate in his head, further pricking his curiosity.

Why did she prefer keeping her power hidden, when she could gain so much more respect from those beneath her? A yautja would never hide a feat of unparalleled strength, rather they would boast it to others in public displays. Even higher ranking members of his clan did not do much to show their abilities. Just the rings and decorations in their dreads spoke volumes as to their superiority.

Rae may only be human, but was power not viewed the same to both species? This one, although a small thing, walked rather hesitantly, her eyes scanning anything and everything as though imminent danger were near. It was ridiculous. What did she have to fear? He flipped through different visions in his mask, scanning the people around her for any sign of a weapon, and found nothing.

She acted as if she were a defenseless pup with no Bearer to protect her. It made no sense! When he had confronted her alone in the woods, she, although scared, made her power known to him, why not here as well? Was she ashamed of it? Did she choose to use her ability as a last resort? So many questions, and very little answers.

He watched her closely as the two females left another sanctioned off area of the vast building, coming out with more bags than before. This culture baffled him in more ways than one.

When the two had finally managed to make their way out, they chatted for a few more minutes, embraced, and then went separate ways.

Dropping back down to the ground he carefully shadowed Rae all the way back to her vehicle.

She placed her flimsy paper bags on the tarred ground and fiddled with something hanging off her neck. On the end of the decoration were several metal shapes that noisily clinked together as her fingers filed through them. Appearing to have found what she was looking for, she inserted the object into the side of her transportation, turning it twice before opening the door.

Silent as ever, he prowled closer, keenly watching her unknowing expression.

It was after she placed one of the bags in the front seat, did she pause for a moment too long. Her head turned ever so slightly.

Did she know he was right behind her? To his intrigue, she let out a small chuckle.

"Do you need some help getting into the back?" she peered over her shoulder.

He growled, which for some reason made her smile widen. He would rather die than get in that thing again.

"You sure?" she turned around after tossing the last of her bags in. "I think I might be able to squeeze you in like last time."

Her eyes were so bright, not in color, but in happiness, so different to how she had been in the past days. Crossing his arms, he stared at her, not enjoying the humor. "You would not move me even if you tried."

Her eyebrows rose at his challenging tone, another human expression he was getting used to.

Instead of answering him with a challenge of her own, like he knew she wanted to. She shrugged her shoulders. "Alright then." Without so much as another word she moved away from him and went to the other side of the vehicle and got inside. Not a moment later the car rumbled to life and simply pulled away.

He was so shocked by her audacity to dismiss him, his mouth was parted. He blinked, breaking out of his stupor and rolled his shoulders with a low growl. With a few starting steps, he sped towards a nearby tree and used his momentum to kick off, catapulting him up the extended trunk and its splaying branches. It was not hard for him to catch up to her, with all the stopping she did, and it was always at a red light. It didn't seem like a coincidence either. He wondered what the color meant to them.

Her turns seemed to be random, but as he followed in close pursuit he realized she was heading away from the populated town, towards the direction of her home. It really was a pity humans had not mastered the capability of flight to a greater degree. All this pointless roaming about to get to a desired destination was likely a waste of valuable fuel and time.

Knowing now, where she wanted to go, he bee-lined it for her sanctuary, estimating his high chances of getting there first. Even in her high-speed vehicle, he would no doubt win, for that he was certain.

As he ran, his muscles churning with every leap and bound, he followed the winding trails that lead him toward the thick bushes that likely shielded smaller unworthy prey from hungry predators. Testing his healed shoulder, he took his chance to use the close knit maples to his advantage. His claws raked through their darkened bark, anchoring himself as he catapulted himself over the noisy underbrush, landing practically silently on the untouched forest floor. Feeling his rejuvenated strength pleased him greatly. It was as if nothing had happened, all that was left as a reminder were the scars littering his arms and leg.

Of course, he admitted that such a recovery would not have been possible if it were not for… her.

A flash of her oddly pleasing smile filled his head. He recalled the way those dark eyes looked at him, teasing him at the outrageous suggestion that he be forced to endure another ride in that puny human transport. Why he continued to think of it was beyond him, but what was more troubling was the recent thoughts he had been having of her.

Caught off guard by such distractions, Tomak did not have enough time to react to the sudden drop in the terrain. With a snarl he dropped, tumbling down the bumpy, root covered hill, until his hand snagged a well-rooted sapling, bringing his descent to a jarring halt. He growled, shaking his body down as he rose back to his feet. He endured much worse.

A rumbling roll of thunder sounded above him before it started to rain.

He cursed the gods for his fate. And the rain only came down harder.


Rae hurried into the house, glad to be out of the rain. It seemed to come out of nowhere.

She shivered, shedding her soaked rain coat and threw it on a hanger as she kicked off her shoes. As she made her way to take a nice hot shower, Chase came slinking out of the bedroom. "Hey what are you doing in there?" she scooped him up into her arms. "That's not ours anymore," she spoke softly to the feline as it purred for more attention.

Knowing Tomak would be back any second, she made a decision to make her shower quick. But after wrapping up her hair and getting into some of her comfortable lazy clothes, he had still not shown up.

She frowned, looking at the clock. She'd give him twenty more minutes, before going out to look for him. He better not have gotten lost, especially in this weather.

Turning for the kitchen she went to make something hot for her late lunch, but as soon as she did, the front door opened and slammed shut. "Tomak?" she called, coming out to see him.

Her eyes widened, and almost immediately she had to hold back from laughing. "What happened to you?"

He was wet, obviously from the downpour of rain, but sticking out at odd angles from his dreadlocks were small twigs. The poor guy must have fallen, which wasn't at all funny, but seeing him like this was just the opposite facade he was trying to maintain. More serious now, she came closer inspecting a nasty gash on his leg. "Are you okay?"

Tomak shifted, a growly grunt his annoyed response, not at all happy to be tended to again.

"I'm assuming you'll take care of yourself?" she peered up at him in question.

He crossed his arms.

"Okay then." There was her answer. Tugging the towel from her hair she held it out to him. "Here, you need this more than I do."

He watched the damp tendrils of her hair cascade down her shoulders before staring at her offering that was strong with her sweet scent. Carefully he took it, noticing her content expression before walking away, intent on attending to something in the adjacent room.

Taking the time to attend to himself, Tomak hissed in irritation as he plucked out small sticks from his dreads, now understanding her initial reaction when he first entered. Once he was sure he had found them all, he began the task of wiping himself down, undoing the straps of his armor as he went. He made a pile on the plush furniture she called 'a couch', right beside the flimsy paper bags she was carrying earlier, now becoming curious with its contents.

Dropping the rag off to the side, he looked inside the closest of the two, just as Rae reentered the room.

"What is this?" he gestured, not so unhuman-like towards the paper shopping bags.

Sitting in the chair opposite to the couch with a bowl of soup in hand, she glanced at him. "Oh just some clothing. I forgot to go to the grocery store, so I'll have to do that tomorrow."

One of his hands disappeared in the black bag only to come out holding the bright red bikini that looked like mere scraps of fabric hanging from his claw. Seeing him hold them made her cheeks burn in embarrassment.

She bit the inside of her cheek. "That was not my idea."

"What is it for?" he trilled curiously, peering at it closer.

Rae brought the spoon to her mouth and blew on the steaming liquid as she tried to ignore the existence of what he was holding. "Basically to tan."

"What is 'tan?'" his head tilted towards her.

"Well…" she thought of a description he would best understand. "You're essentially darkening your skin by sitting out under the sun."

"Does this 'tanning' give you a survival advantage?"

She bit back a laugh. "Nope. It just makes you look less sickly."

That got his attention. His masked face held her gaze intensely. "You tan to hide sickness?"

"No, you… it… it just makes you look nicer."

He paused at that. "So its purpose is to attract mates," he concluded, dropping the small garments back into the bag.

"I guess that's one reason for it." Then her mind caught up to her mouth, "But that's not why I bought that. I had no choice in the matter, really."

"I see."

Yeah, you better see, she retorted inwardly. "By the way, can we talk about your appearance today?"

"My appearance?" he trilled, with what almost sounded like humor.

"Yes- no, not how you look, but your appearance at the mall," she stumbled over her words, only to delay, taking a needed breath. "Just please don't do that again, especially during daylight hours. Someone could have seen you."

He faced her, his now bare muscles somehow looking enhanced as he towered over her small frame. "Human eyes are weak. They cannot see a yautja's cloak."

She frowned thoughtfully, "Yow-ja?"

"Yautja," he corrected. "It is what I am."

She filed that piece of information away. "Okay, but as great as your cloak may be, I don't want you doing that again. It's too dangerous to risk exposing yourself."

He chortled, clearly amused. "Are you worried for me, little female?"

"I'm just trying to keep us under the radar. It's stressful, you know?" she hoped her less confrontational approach would aid in what she was hoping to achieve.

Tomak read her body language and could see the determination in her eyes. She was being serious. Though she did well pretending otherwise, he could see the tension, as slight as it was, in her shoulders. He thought over her request. She wanted him to remain unseen during the day. Again, he was taken back by how expressive her eyes were, speaking far more than any words could. "As you wish."


The Colonel stood stiffly in his place, waiting for his call to be answered. This was an important meeting, one that he had debated making. It wasn't everyday that you requested high class intel on a private government facility. And other than the Pentagon, there was only one person he knew of that could grant him this request.

The large screen ahead of him flashed once, which only meant one thing. He straightened himself, staring squarely at the pulsing ring that was connecting the call.

Then he appeared. Sitting confidently at his desk in his black suit, and wearing the many medals and decorations awarded to him.

"What is it, Colonel?"

He resisted the urge to speak informally to his old friend. "Forgive the intrudence sir."

The older man motioned dismissively to someone off-screen, "Give me a minute." Turning his attention back to the camera, he allowed himself to visibly relax in his seat. "What's going on Bill?"

"I wish we were meeting under better circumstances, Admiral."

He chuckled, waving his hand. "There's no need for formality here. It's just the two of us."

The Colonel smiled, "It's good to see you Mike."


Author's Note

Well, it's been a while hasn't it? I know the apologies are getting old, but if I'm being frank I've been extremely busy with boring college stuff that you don't want to hear about, so I won't tell you lol.

Aside from all that, I've missed my characters and their story so I've scraped together what time I'm left with to push on. All the reviews, favorites, and following notifications honestly bring a HUGE smile to my face every time I come out from exams. Thank you for being so supportive! I promise you I will make up for it, but if updates are slow, just know I am far from over.

I cannot wait to upload the next update! Your reactions are going to be so much fun to read. In the meantime, I look forward to hearing your thoughts about this one! :)