A/N: Hi, everyone! I hope you are all doing well and staying safe. I apologize for the long delay. I found myself stuck on several scenes for this chapter and working on another story. Plus, I had a few other distractions that kept me from writing anything. I'll just put it this way, like in Stephen King's Dreamcatcher, SSDD.

I am working on the next chapter and hope to update in a few weeks.

Anyway, I hope you all enjoy the read!

Car rides can be intense but not always, though. It just depends on who is with you.

Silence within a confined space is another. It could be light and comfortable or downright intimidating and heavy. For the stalker, with Ruth riding in the passenger seat and the dog in her lap, it's frightening. Neither had made eye contact since they departed the house, leaving the Clarke Brothers incapacitated. Not by his hands, though. The teenager beside him done that, and it honestly startled him how ruthless she can be. Ruth had this unplaceable fire in her eyes where she seemed unrecognizable to him. She wasn't the Ruth he learned the day of the fair. Ruth was a completely different person at that moment, and it scared him for some reason when he shouldn't be.

He made a slight glance at her and watched Ruth gently pet the dog's neck and length of its body. The stalker noticed the somber and apologetic gaze in Ruth's eyes, something he didn't quite understand at first. He remembered hearing the pup whine and painfully yelp during his squabble with Draven, which indicated the poor dog got injured trying to help Ruth. The stalker doesn't doubt Ruth feels guilty of her pet getting hurt during the fray. He can relate and empathizes, even felt responsible himself. Nevertheless, the stalker wished he could have done more to protect Ruth and the dog. Maybe then they wouldn't be riding in the car in this unbearable silence.

He glances from her to the road ahead several times before sighing heavily. Then, with a final look, the stalker eventually pulled to a stop on the side of the road.

Ruth became alarmed at the sudden stop. She timidly glances at him but doesn't capture his gaze. His eyes laid on the road ahead while flexing his fingers and jaw squaring. She can see the wheels in his mind turning to figure out how to ease themselves out of this silence. Ruth would have said something to break the ice but didn't dare to comment. She heaves a sigh herself, then looked ahead to discover they are about fifty feet from Route 2. Ruth soon realized they are not far from the Neibolt House.

She glances at Pennywise, who remained in his dog form by choice, wondering if Ruth should direct her stalker towards her safe house. Ruth does trust him enough anyway. She just wonders what Pennywise would think about her leading the stranger to his home. She goes to open her mouth but closes it just as quickly.

Ruth debated if she should say something, but the stalker took the plunge.

"I'm sorry for what happened back there," he says finally, then acknowledges her fully.

She holds his gaze with a frown, noting the bit of fear in his eyes. She doesn't understand why he would, but Ruth believes he might feel apprehensive after what she had done earlier. Ruth did attack the brothers to save themselves, but it was driven by that familiar unrelenting rage. Granted, Ruth was motivated by her mother's wishes to beat the shit out of them. However, Ruth relived the moment Jonathan attempted to rape her the night Mike came to her home. She channeled her inner Hyde to ward him off and escape. Except, what happened not ten minutes ago, felt different. Ruth almost felt like someone took over her mind and body at that very moment. She already knows she has anger issues but to frighten someone like the stranger scared her. Ruth doesn't want him to feel scared of her because of this uncontrollable and unrecognizable anger. Maybe, she has a problem?

When Ruth didn't say anything in return, the stalker turns away and dejectedly stared out the window.

"I should have done more to protect you, Ruth."

"You could have," Ruth responds cautiously. "But it was out of your control and mine. So, please don't feel guilty for what happened."

"I know I shouldn't, but I do. You shouldn't have done what you did." The stalker glances at her then, only to stare at the freckles on her nose.

"I know," she pauses for a moment and glances down at Pennywise, who appears to be napping. "But I had to."

"Why, though?"

"Because you're worth fighting for."

The stalker's lips trembled into a timid smile and turned away again. "It's nice hearing that for once. I don't hear it very often, maybe not ever. So, thank you, Ruth, for saving me."

Ruth felt something warm swell in her chest, even heat on her cheeks, and smiled softly.

"Varsågod," she whispers.

The stalker glances at Ruth and mirrors her smile, then stared down at her hand. He wanted to reach out and touch her but couldn't bring himself to do so partially because he's not sure if the dog would bite him for trying anything. The dog did prove to be very protective of his master and would do just about anything to ensure Ruth's safety. However, the dog didn't attack him when he hugged Ruth but still wasn't going to risk it.

There is a light, comfortable silence between them now, but neither looked each other in the eye. They may have knocked one thing out of the way from opening up, but another still needs to be brought to question. The stalker wants to ask Ruth what provoked her to be so ruthless. He has an idea of what it is but needs to be sure of his assumption.

He opens his mouth to speak, but Ruth talks over him without knowing.

"Can I ask you something?" Ruth questioned.

He glances at her and gulps. "You can."

Ruth heaves a sigh then gazes at him, locking her eyes on his.

"Why did you do what you did?"

His brows furrowed, and his lips curved downwards into a frown. "Did what?"

"I read in the newspaper the authorities found the butcher knife with no trace of fingerprints. When I saw Stan earlier, he said you told him and the others to wait outside the house. He suspects you wiped my fingerprints from the murder weapon. Why did you?"

The stalker stared briefly, then turned away with his grip on the steering wheel tightening and jaw squaring. She can visibly see him cursing in his head, indicating he didn't want her to know. Ruth probably shouldn't have asked, but something told her it had to be questioned. To ease him of his escalating anger, Ruth reached over and touched his arm. Thankfully, he didn't retract from her touch. In fact, he welcomed it and stared at her from the corner of his eye.

"Don't be mad that I found out. I'm not angry with you either. In fact, I'm quite grateful."

The stalker snaps his gaze on her with his brows creased tighter and mouth slightly gaping.

"It was a mystery for some time now why no one suspected me. Now that I know you did me a great favor. You deterred attention away from me. Who knows what would have happened if the police discovered I murdered Jordan. I wouldn't be sitting here right now if it weren't for you, that's for sure. You saved me from a possible intolerable future. So, thank you. I owe you a lot."

He smiles tenderly at her, reaches out, and cradles Ruth's cheek. His touch caused a delightful tingle to run down her spine to her toes, a fire burned within her stomach, yet she felt strangely calm.

"You don't owe me anything, love. I wouldn't have done what I did just for anyone. Normally, it's to cover my tracks from others who wish to do me harm, except I had to protect you, Ruth. A rare girl such as you doesn't belong amongst the wicked. You deserve better, a clean slate, so to speak."

"Do I?"

"Of course, you do. Everyone deserves something in life, except for me. I lost that privilege years ago. I bring trouble to anyone I meet. What happened to you that night is entirely my fault."

"It is not your fault," Ruth enunciates. "You didn't do anything to get me in danger. If anything," Ruth starts only to be interrupted.

"I could have kept you from leaving my side, Ruth! I made a promise to myself to keep you safe, and I failed miserably in doing so. Everything could have been prevented if I had just listened to my fucking gut," the stalker forces out and lightly pants with tears threatening to fall.

She grew quiet then and searched his guilty, watery gaze.

After an intense moment, he calms down before continuing.

"I had this horrible feeling something was wrong. I saw it in your eyes, love. I tried shaking the feeling off the best I could, but I just couldn't. It only got worse as the hours ticked by. I had a nightmare about you, and it left me absolutely terrified. To assure me that you were alright, I called your home. When no one answered, I feared the worse despite reassuring myself you were okay. I was so scared for you, and it made me sick not knowing if you were safe or not. I didn't even like the thought of you getting killed due to my stupidity."

The stalker lightly trembled from the image of her slit throat flashing in his brain. He doesn't want anything like that to happen with her ever. He got himself too deeply involved with her when he shouldn't have.

"When I told you that I really liked you, I meant it. I guess," the stalker pauses to rub the back of his neck. "I guess I care about you more than what I let on."

Ruth stared at him for a long moment, absorbing everything he said and all the emotion in his voice. She knew he cared for her in some fashion, but to this extreme, it kind of startled her. Yet, it left her feeling… overjoyed, hopeful even. Stan has expressed how much he cared about her but hearing her stalker open up like this, her so-called "crush" for Stanley Uris dissolved in an instant. Ruth is increasingly smitten over her stalker, whose affections for her are growing stronger.

She attempts to smile only to falter. Ruth opens her mouth to say something but closes and repeats several times until she found the words to speak.

"I know I said it before, and I will repeat it," Ruth replies softly. "I am so terribly sorry I worried you so badly. I hate you had to go through that uncertainty. I was foolish not to inform you of my condition sooner. I don't blame you for what happened because none of it is your fault. So, please do not believe for a second you caused my misfortune. The only ones to blame are now six feet under."

The stalker's fingers lightly traced her cheekbone, brushed at fine strands of hair from Ruth's eyes, and rests his palm on her cheek. He smiles softly at her then directed his gaze to her hand, which now rests on his wrist.

"Thank you, Ruth. Your reassurance means a lot."

Ruth just smiles in return and gazes at his thick lips then his piercing emeralds.

They stared briefly in a comfortable silence until the stalker cleared his throat and redirected his gaze to the T-junction ahead of him. He wanted to inquire about her behavior earlier but didn't want to spoil the tenderness hanging between them. He also had the impulse to kiss the teenager but couldn't bring himself to do so. It will bring him more trouble, even her, if the people searching for him found out about Ruth. The stalker shook his head to rid himself of any other horrible thoughts.

"The only thing we need to worry about now is getting you someplace safe. There's not exactly a good place to go, from what I can see. I'm beginning to think we need to get you out of town."

Ruth gazes at him for a second, then down at Pennywise, who laid asleep in her lap. He could use the rest right now since the creature is starting to feel the effects of not hibernating again. Ruth doesn't doubt the injuries he obtained earlier made him weaker. Although, his sleeping will help Pennywise regain his strength, even if it is only for a short time.

When Pennywise told her about the deal he made with Maturin, it wasn't clear if the creature could rest periodically to keep his strength up. Pushing himself to remain awake would only weaken his ancient body. A week after the fiasco, the space turtle, as Pennywise put it, returned with an addition. While the original arrangement is still in effect, Maturin will allow Pennywise to have a deep rejuvenating sleep every month and last for three days to regain his strength. The shapeshifter quickly accepted and asked when he could have his first monthly nap. Ruth didn't realize at that point how tired he was. Well, how would she have known? She may sense his presence near but never felt anything unusual.

When Pennywise returned from his first slumber, Ruth learned the physical signs of his lack of sleep, along with his behavior. These past couple of days now, she has noticed him lagging and showing very little care. His wanting her to venture out during the day is one of those instances. He even lost concentration in concealing their identities while heading to her old place. Those are the few indicators. Pennywise offering a hug when she was upset could be another, but Ruth is unsure about that.

Ruth lightly smiles as she continued to stare down at her dear friend. The thought of him sleeping again has her nervous and anxious. She doesn't particularly like the sound of being alone right now, especially after learning the truth about herself and her father. Maybe, Ruth could ask her stalker if he could stay with her for a couple more days. Except, Ruth knew he couldn't stay here in Derry much longer. He has proved his affections for her are growing stronger each passing minute they are together. Perhaps, asking him to remain here would be a bad idea and dismisses the question altogether.

The only thing she knows right now is that Ruth needs to get Pennywise home to rest and not be seen. She heaves a heavy sigh then turned her gaze upon the stalker, who became silent as he stared at the intersection with a frightened frown.

"Take a right at the junction," Ruth says suddenly.

Startled, the stalker turns to her, and eyes falter at Ruth's lips.

"Why?"

She hesitated for a moment, but Ruth knew this is the right thing to do.

"I know a place where we can go."

I shouldn't have brought him here, Ruth thought to herself.

She stood outside of his car and stared at the rundown house that is on Neibolt. The darkened siding contrasted against the cerulean sky like a brooding giant from another world. Its grotesque limps stretched like fingers towards the duo as if conjuring a wicked spell from the blustering winds and faint rustles whispered past her ears from the tall weeds and grass blowing in the breeze. Even the smell of summer heat and soil wafted in her nostrils as her eyes remained focused on the darkened siding.

"So," a voice disturbs the silence.

Ruth jumps a little from being startled from her thoughts but dared not to gaze upon her stalker. Instead, her fingers twitched and rubbed her palms cautiously.

"This where is you have been hiding now, huh?" he finished, then regarded Ruth.

She only nods, and her thumbs twitched.

The stalker returned his gaze to the house and grinned enthusiastically.

"I guess I should have realized you would be here instead of somewhere else. Although considering the creepiness this place holds, I can see why you would because many locals stay away from here, from what I've heard. Honestly, though, I think it is pretty damn cool."

Ruth snapped her eyes on him and gaped.

"Really?"

"Really, really. Fun fact, I love horror films. I just didn't think a lovely young woman such as yourself would have a liking for creepy and cool houses."

Ruth's lips pulled back into a delightful grin.

"Oh, I'm not like most girls. In fact, I happen to love horror films as well."

The stalker's grin broadens, and he glances at her with a sparkle in his eyes.

"I know you're not like most girls, sweetheart. In fact, you're becoming even more irresistible with your love of horror movies."

The stalker, at that point, started forwards with purposeful strides and an excited grin.

"You wouldn't mind if I took a look around now, do you?"

"Not at all. Please, pardon the mess," Ruth invites quickly, then turned to the resting car.

She looks in at Pennywise, still in his dog form and stirring from his nap. Ruth took a good look at him and saw that he is beginning to show more signs of needing a deep, restful sleep. A part of Ruth wished he hadn't made her a promise to stay for a year. The lack of sleep showed in his saddened, soulful eyes and the way Pennywise moved. He crept to his feet, well paws, unsteadily and slightly winced.

She deeply frowns then opened the car door to retrieve his wobbling form.

"Here, let me help," Ruth whispers tenderly as she reached for him.

"I can manage on my own, you irritating child," Pennywise grumbles tiredly as he stepped out of her reach.

Ruth stops and peers at him through small strands of hair with her frown deepening and brows downward.

"It's been a while since you called me that, Penny. You must be really tired."

Pennywise answers with a groan then stumbled out of the car despite Ruth reaching for him still.

"I told you I could manage on my own."

"But you're hurt," she whispers.

"I know that! I'm slowly healing as we speak. Just let me be, irritant," Pennywise insists.

"How is the little guy, Ruth?" The stranger suddenly questions from the door.

Ruth quickly regards him with a slight pout, who started forwards with concern in his eyes.

"Penny's hurt and exhausted," she laconically replies.

He understood, of course, yet felt horrible for the dog that is slowly ambling to the steps. The stalker studied the approaching canine critically, which he notices how worn out the pup is. He is sure the brute who bashed the dog into the metal bedframe caused some sort of internal injury. The slight stagger in its step also indicated the extent of his exhaustion.

The tall, handsome stalker sighs, then stoop low to stealthily yet gently scoop the dog in his arms.

"Come here, superhero."

Of course, Pennywise didn't take too kindly of the stalker's sudden assistance. He growls loudly for Ruth's eyes to widen and place a hand over her mouth.

"PUT ME DOWN THIS INSTANT!"

Pennywise makes a snarl and attempts to bite the stalker. However, he just as swiftly avoided Pennywise's teeth and strides to the open door.

"Come on now. There's no need for that. I'm only trying to help," the stalker whispers.

"I don't give a damn! Now, let me down!"

Pennywise struggles to escape the stalker's arms, but the tall man is adamant about carrying him to the house. He growls and warningly nips the air at the man's arm.

"Damn you! Let me…"

Pennywise doesn't get to finish when the stalker interrupts him softly.

"You'll take care of her for me, won't you?"

Pennywise blinks, then stared at the tall human, slightly unsure why the stalker would ask such as thing. He gazed up at the man and saw the underlining fear in the males' eyes. He understood and wished he hadn't felt or smelt the terror on the man's flesh. Pennywise hasn't fed on a child in over a month, and now he suddenly craves the taste of frightened meat. Unfortunately, though, he can't willingly seek a meal until Maturin allows him. He has to abide by the turtle's wishes. Otherwise, Pennywise will be forced to hibernate without letting Ruth know or saying goodbye to her. His selfish actions will only cause Ruth heartache. He doesn't want to do that to her. It's a thought that actually sickened him. Pennywise will do just about anything to ensure her safety and protect her heart. She is the first and only most loyal friend he has ever encountered. Protecting her by the stalker's request is just more motivation to gain another trustworthy ally in the future.

"You know I will," Pennywise replied to himself with a nod of acknowledgment.

The tall stalker gently smiles at the quiet pup then entered the dreary home. He turns a corner and sets the dog on a soft yet slightly dirty blanket he assumed was the dog's spot.

The stalker strokes the canine's neck and scratches his ears, whispering, "There you go, Penny. Rest up now."

Pennywise sat there blankly for a moment to comprehend the tall man's gentleness. He's used to Ruth displaying such actions towards him plenty. Except, for someone other than her, it felt strangely odd. He has learned over a thousand millennia that humans express the goodness in them, even the bad. To receive it, however, is another. Pennywise tried harming the kind stranger due to his lack of sleep and food, yet the stranger remained unaffected by his irritation. So, why would an evil being such as himself be rewarded with such compassion? He doesn't deserve it, does he?

He turns his sorrowful eyes onto the tall human, only to be met with emptiness. At first, Pennywise was disappointed by the male's absence but remembered the stalker's departure. Pennywise doesn't doubt the stalker and Ruth are having one last conversation and attempt to kiss again. He hopes they won't. Why Pennywise cares who she kisses is beyond him. He inwardly screws his lips, then slowly trotted over to the doorframe to watch them with great interest. Pennywise can only hope he can learn something about the stranger's identity, maybe even his intentions with Ruth. The guy certainly is a charmer, and Pennywise would hate it if Ruth got blindsided. That is only if the male is two-timing her, which he highly doubts at this point.

He watched as the stalker slowly approached Ruth, who had stopped at the bottom of the steps, then stood before her and said nothing. Strangely, Ruth doesn't say anything either, which only confused Pennywise.

The stalker stared down at Ruth for a moment longer, struggling to say anything but couldn't find the words. He tried to smile only to falter and continued to eye Ruth through his eyelashes. Why is it so hard to say goodbye? Or maybe, they don't know how or where to begin?

After an excoriating moment in awkward silence, the stalker clears his throat and moves past Ruth. He doesn't see this, but her features fall, and her bottom lip trembled. Her fingers curl in a loose fist, then glances over her shoulder at him as he came to the driver's side of the car. She wants to say something, but for the life of her can't bring herself to speak. Her stalker's departure is unexpected and unbearable. Ruth watched him fall inside and sat back with a heavy sigh leaving his lungs. She can tell he wanted to look in her direction but couldn't.

Ruth slowly started forwards with a final glance, where she will watch another person leave her even though it is for three days.

Inside the car, the stalker shudders a sigh then reaches forward to at least start the engine. His large hand drops though and rests on his thigh. He stares at the gauges frowning and eyes darting across the dashboard as if searching for an answer to end things, if only temporarily.

He shifts his gaze from the dashboard to the pocket of his jean jacket. He can feel something grow heavy like a brick within, which caused his shoulders to sag. The stalker eyed the fabric for a moment longer then regarded a retreating Ruth. He stared at her back thoughtfully, then down at his pocket again. His lips screwed lightly, then looked towards Ruth, who started to ease the front door closed.

After a short debate, the stalker opens his car door and steps out to rush towards the girl that caught his fancy.

"Viv, wait," he shouts lightly.

Ruth stops herself to gaze out at him, who jogged up to the steps. She hurriedly rushed over to meet him and stood at the bottom of the last step. Once they stood inches apart, Ruth half expected him to reach for her face and kiss her tenderly, but that is far from his mind from what she can see in his eyes. Instead, he stares at her with mouth opening and closing, as if searching his brain for words again. She licks her lips then took the plunge herself, even if it is one small word.

"Yes?"

The stalker struggled still in search of words briefly before clearing his throat. He gazes deeply into her earthy jeweled orbs and lightly touches Ruth's arm.

"Will you hold onto something for me?"

Ruth blinks and cocks her head slightly to the right.

"Um, I could," she starts with uncertainty. "But it kind of depends on what it is, though."

"I will explain in a minute. I do, however, need you to close your eyes."

"What for?"

"Do you not trust me, love?"

Ruth searches his gaze for any deceit but didn't see any. With a shuddering breath, Ruth eases her eyes closed despite her nerves. Ruth doesn't know what he is up to and frankly hates surprises. The thought of him doing something to cause distrust worried her. Except, Ruth knows he won't intentionally hurt her. He said so himself anyway. Their two almost-kisses are evidence enough to know how much the stalker cares for her. Maybe… maybe he wants to kiss her for real this time and when there are no interruptions. Ruth began to fidget with her fingers and the buttons on her blouse, and her heart quickened.

Ruth feels him lean towards her, which he just barely touches her chest with his and causes Ruth to hold a breath. His hot breath ghosts at her lips, lingering there for a moment, then to her cheek, and finally her ear.

"Give me your hand," he whispers.

Ruth shakily exhales and blindly searches for his hand. His fingers hesitantly found her palm and held it firmly yet tenderly.

The moment he did, the stranger felt his chest tighten, his breath stopped short, and heart-racing with palms lightly moistening. He wanted to retract at first but calmed down just as fast. It's a feeling he has felt on numerous occasions while in Ruth's presence, but it seems more intense due to his quickly approaching departure. The stalker stares down at Ruth, noticing her posture grew rigid but relaxed and lightly trembled. This is the first time he saw Ruth react the same way, which he has to wonder if there is something more destined for them.

He gulps and lightly cleared his throat before reaching into his jacket pocket. His fingers curl around an object that feels like dead weight, then withdrawn from the coarse jean fabric. He is reluctant to give Ruth the item, unsure if he should or not, but he must. She is the only person the stalker trusts. He gazes down at Ruth, considering something for a long moment, then drew a finger to Ruth's palm to trace a letter on her soft skin.

Her brows furrow, and her head tilted slightly, mouthing the letter "R" under her breath.

He smiled softly and drew another.

"U," she murmurs and begun to smile.

The stalker traced two more for her, where she then whispers, "N, E."

She opened her mouth to say his name, but he prevents her from speaking.

"Don't say my name, love. Yes, I want you to know, but hearing it coming from your lips will only make me want to stay here longer when I shouldn't."

"Why can't you? You're not in trouble, are you?"

"Nothing for you to be concerned about. I don't want you to worry about me or the conundrum I'm in."

"Well, I think it's a bit late for that," she replies tentatively.

The stalker smiles gingerly and lightly brushes a hair from Ruth's eyes.

"Please don't be afraid, love. Everything will be fine, I'm sure of it."

Ruth gulps tightly and nods in understanding.

"Okay. Do you know how long will you be gone?"

The stalker frowns with a gentle sigh.

"Honestly, I am not too sure."

"Well, that's reassuring," she whispers with a tremble.

"I know it's not the answer you want to hear, but I really don't know how long I will be. I have some unfinished business I need to take care of, and it's going to take me quite a while to tie up some loose ends. But that's not what I wanted to give you, Ruth."

Ruth's chest tightened, and holds her breath.

"Do you remember when we first spoke? You know, when my lighter went out?"

"I do," she breathed.

He gingerly places his dead cigarette lighter onto her palm, curls her fingers around it, and then holds Ruth's fist.

"I've had this on me since I left Malmö. It once belonged to someone I was close with. I would hate it if anything were to happen to it. Will you keep it safe for me until we meet again?"

Ruth's eyes snap open, and she stared him right in the eye.

"Yes, I'll keep it safe for you. You can trust me," Ruth replies with conviction.

The stalker smiles softly at her, then glances down at their entwined fingers as a faint blush swept across his cheeks and nose.

She mirrors his smile and glances down herself, eyeing their conjoined hands. Ruth felt something swell in her chest, and breathe caught in her throat, suddenly feeling nervous yet strangely giddy. Without really thinking of what she was doing, Ruth stepped close and wrapped her arms around his neck, embracing him tightly with a soft hum. His arms instantly wound around her, encasing Ruth in warmth.

"Thank you, Ruth."

Not too far away, Pennywise peered around the doorway to watch the newly formed friends with a frown. Realization hit him once he figured out what Maturin told him nearly a month ago. Pennywise is not the only person Ruth trusts. It's her stalker as well. Maturin has something planned for these two people but has to wonder why he is suddenly drawing them apart. Of course, Pennywise shouldn't ask questions about his intentions when it is clear the turtle wants what is best for Ruth. If the young man is in trouble, Maturin will ensure the stranger doesn't bring her along. He needs Ruth safe.

The two embraced for a long minute, really just enjoying the closeness and cherishing the moment. Ruth and her stalker didn't speak as they hugged tenderly, which there really wasn't much to say now. Eventually, the stalker sighs heavily, then leans over slightly to place a kiss on the crown of Ruth's head, and slowly drew away.

Despite the summer heat, Ruth felt cold without his strong arms around her. A sickening knot even developed in her stomach to the point of wanting to vomit. She doesn't like the feeling either. Ruth wanted to say something to keep him here with her but couldn't bring herself to do so. If he is in trouble, she doesn't want to be the cause of his death. Worse yet, if he has enemies, they could discover her involvement and use her for leverage. Ruth doesn't doubt Rune would fight tooth and nail to reunite her with him. That is if he doesn't underestimate his opponent as he had done with Draven.

The stalker faintly smiles down at her before turning and briskly walked back to his car.

Ruth frowns as she watched the stalker named Rune quickly open the car down to plop into his seat, glanced back at her, then started the car. Ruth's queasy stomach only worsened when he has yet to move. Something about his departure doesn't feel right, which only made Ruth believe this is the last time she will ever see him. He may say it will take him a while to sort out whatever problems he has, but what if? What if things go wrong and he doesn't come back at all? What if he gets killed? Considering the heaviness she had seen in his eyes and voice made Ruth believes he just might. That thought alone made her want to cry. If this is their final meeting, what would make a lasting impression on him?

She heaves a shuddering breath and licks her lips. Then, without second-guessing herself, Ruth calls out and rushes after him as the vehicle started forward.

"Rune, wait!"

The tires lightly screech to a stop in an instant but sat idle as Ruth hurried to the passenger seat and shoved herself inside. Rune doesn't glance at her as she panted beside him, nor does he smile. Instead, his eyes misted from her calling out his name, and his lips violently trembled. Ruth can tell he's fighting with all his might not to break down, and the silence between them is undoubtedly tense. She knew saying his name would cause discomfort, maybe even frustrate him, but Ruth desired to speak his refined and robust name.

After a short moment, Ruth turned her gaze off him then down at the floorboard.

"Will you do something for me before you go?" Ruth's small voice filled the car.

Rune swallows a lump from his larynx then glances over. He caught Ruth's nervous gaze at the floorboard, smiling softly and sympathetically at her. He can even see the wheels turning in her beautiful head. The Stalker, Rune, didn't have to decipher what Ruth wants of him and the intentions she has for her request. He will always happily oblige no matter what she asks. Ruth is in his debt and owes her more than she believes.

"I will do just about anything for you, Vivian."

She snaps her gaze onto him with brows furrowed and a frown adorning her lips.

"Anything?"

He smiled tenderly, then held out his hand, motioning to the prepared envelope of evidence within the large purse.

"Någonting."

A small smile crept across Ruth's lips and lightly pressed them as a flush brushed her cheeks. She hands Rune the envelope, who graciously accepts it and lightly shifts in her spot.

"Tack så mycket."

"Du är välkommen, älskling."

Ruth had shifted again and a little closer to Rune, who simultaneously mirrored her movements. They sat closer than before and hardly made eye contact except to stare at each other's lips. There was a brief moment where they said nothing nor moved to close the gap between them. It hung there tauntingly and with intensity. Their stomachs fluttered, and fingers ached for the slightest touch, waiting earnestly for contact. The stillness broke as Rune made the slightest bit of movement, justling the envelope in his hand, and gently took hold of Ruth's hand. It is soft and warm against his own, even slightly dwarfed in size with the tiniest of moisture.

Slowly, Rune leaned close and entwined his fingers with her own, then drew her hand to his lips. With a soft, tender peck, he kisses the back of Ruth's hand and knuckles. The thought of kissing her mouth would be more ideal. Except, he knew what would happen if they succumbed to their desire in caressing lips. The action will only strengthen their bond, maybe even confirm the attraction they feel. But Rune knew he mustn't kiss the teenager despite the want in his bones.

He stares into her beautiful eyes, catching the flicker of disappointment she held. It's understandable, though. Rune is disappointed as well for not acting on his impulse, but he knows it's for the best.

"Everything is going to be alright in the end, you'll see. Maybe a lot sooner than you think. I promise you," he whispers after a short moment.

Ruth looks at him with her head slightly skewed and brows furrowed.

"What do you mean?"

"In time, you'll know," he pauses and softly smiles. "Fare thee well, my friend."

Ruth feigns a small, sad smile while lightly nodding her head in understanding. She stopped him from leaving to spend a few extra minutes with him and hopefully have her first kiss. Now that it will not happen due to Rune's circumstances, Ruth will just have to wait until he returns.

"Fare thee well."

Rune reluctantly untwined their fingers and let his hand settle on the steering wheel.

At that point, Ruth sighs heavily then forced herself to leave the confinement of his car. The gnawing feeling that this could be their last meet still haunted her. She stepped back as the greenish metallic vehicle rumbled and clanged back into drive. Ruth held back a chuckle as it sputtered sadly before it gained momentum then slowly started pushing forward. She took a moment to familiarize her stalker's mode of transportation, along with the license plate for when Rune came back for her. Ruth noticed the back of the Volvo wagon is packed with luggage, boxes, and guitar cases, even what appeared to be a sniper rifle and a Thompson submachine gun sticking up.

The weapons startled her, but she had to wonder if there is a connection. The stalker's name is starting to sound awfully familiar to her somehow, but she couldn't quite place it.

She shrugs as his car disappeared from her sight, leaving Ruth in the middle of the road. She eyed the horizon, hoping for a speck of silver will come racing back but never did. Rune is not going to change his mind. With that last heartbreaking revelation, Ruth drags herself to the doorstep of Neibolt.

Upon her approach to the skewed door, Pennywise greets her vision. He remained in his dog form, mainly because he is still too tired to transform out of it. He gazes up at her with those sweet eyes of his. Yet there was a hint of expectancy and… jealousy?

"So, how did it go?" Pennywise asks in a mild grumble.

Ruth's brows furrow. "How did what go?"

If Pennywise could roll his eyes right now, he would.

"Oh, for the love galaxies. Your time with your stalker, dummy? How did it go?"

"Oh um, not how I was expecting it to go, honestly."

Pennywise paused for a moment to process her response. He stared at Ruth briefly, inwardly puckering his lips in agitated determination.

"What the blazes are you talking about? He kissed you, didn't he? How did it go? Was it sloppy and wet like my tongue or short and sweet?"

Ruth stares at him with her brows almost touching her hairline and jaw slightly hinged.

"You're," she stumbles at first. "You're asking if I enjoyed a kiss that didn't happen?"

It was his turn to stare, and he sat there motionless. He felt elated that the two didn't pucker up like a couple of fishes, but Pennywise noted the disappointment in her voice and sadness in her gaze. Pennywise then felt guilty for probing when he shouldn't feel the least bit concerned about her romantic interests. Except, as her protector and best friend, he kind of has to worry about it. He doesn't want Ruth to get her heartbroken, especially after everything that has happened to her in the lasts few months. The only thing that gave her some sort of relief was the pregnancy scare not a week ago.

Phew, now that was a moment Pennywise felt he lost a couple of years off him. When Ruth had the slightest inkling she was pregnant because she missed a cycle, Pennywise had a metaphorical heart attack. The last thing he wanted for her, or even him, was a snotty infant child living and running around amongst a decrepit house. He was relieved that it was just a false alarm once the girl had done some sort of test and showed symptoms of PMS, as Ruth put it. That was a sure sign for Pennywise to stay clear of her for a short week to let Ruth deal with her womanly issues.

He inwardly shudders and audibly huffs, which caused his jowls to flap gently from memory.

"Oh uh, why didn't it?"

"Um, it was for the best, I guess. Kissing Rune might have validated our affections for one another, except," Ruth trails off, her gaze seemingly staring off into space.

Pennywise watched her from below, noting a peculiar twitch under her eye. Ruth's gaze seemed to shift and head slightly skewed as if recognizing something that didn't belong.

"Except, what?"

Ruth doesn't respond, just puckered her lips, causing Pennywise to growl lowly.

"Ruth!"

She seemed to snap out of it at that point to acknowledge her companion.

"Sorry, I was just… thinking."

"Apparently."

"I don't know why but after I said his name, it sounds awfully familiar to me now. As if I heard it once before, but I can't remember where."

Pennywise said nothing.

"I guess we didn't kiss because of the situation he's in. I still don't quite understand it either. I believe it would have caused him to stay here longer than he needed and accidentally get me involved with something when I shouldn't be."

"Which is?"

"I don't know that either. You were there when you met him. Did you pick up on anything that would trigger some red flags?"

Pennywise had to think about that for a moment. He remembered delving into the stranger's mind and saw a past a lot like Ruth's. He also recalls the complicated lifestyle that is wrapped around him and the reputation that comes with it. Even though Pennywise doesn't know much about this Rune fellow, he can tell the young man has no intentions of hurting Ruth. In fact, he's trying to protect Ruth from the horrid truth about himself, his identity. Pennywise understands to a degree but not telling her about the complications he's facing could potentially alter their relationship in the future. Other than that, there are no warning signs.

The thing is now, should Pennywise share the information he gathered?

He glances at Ruth, who patiently waited for an answer from him and made up his mind.

"There is nothing for you to worry about, Ruth," he says simply, then started towards the basement door.

She watches him lumber with her lip jutted and her brows drooped in a soft arch.

"You're certain?"

"I'm sure. Will you be alright while I rest?"

Ruth doesn't respond, just nods her head, which he doesn't see.

"Yeah, I'll be fine," she pauses and studies Pennywise as he approached the door.

"Deadlights."

Pennywise falters in his step before acknowledging her. He rightfully stares since Ruth rarely refers to him by such. The only time she does is when the young girl has something sincere to say. Pennywise recalled the first time Ruth had called him by that. It was the day the poor child was raped by her now dead swine of an uncle. He would have gone out and slaughtered the adult for laying harm onto her and causing the sweet girl trauma. Instead, Pennywise chose to direct Ruth's attention elsewhere to impersonate some actor and danced with her. She referred to him by his source of power and thanked him for his grand gesture afterward.

He remembers how soft and timid Ruth's voice was. She sounded more like the child she is supposed to be and not her usual mature, knowledgeable self. Pennywise even recalls Ruth's body language; her eyes not looking at his and fidgeted with her fingers.

"Thank you," her soft, timid voice echoed in his mind.

Pennywise watched as Ruth hesitated at first since her lips opened and closed like a fish gasping for air. Eventually, she found her voice, and it's just as he thought, strained yet soft.

"I-I…I'm so," she fumbles at first while tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"It's alright, Ruth," Pennywise interjects.

He inwardly smiles when Ruth snapped her gaze on him with eyes widened and mouth gaping.

"What, no! It's not alright. I accused you of impersonating someone when you didn't. I shouldn't have," she is interrupted again.

"Ruth," Pennywise stresses gently. "It's alright, really."

She tries to say something but couldn't bring herself to do so. Instead, Ruth heavily sighs then diverts her gaze to the floor with fidgeting fingers.

"It's really not," Ruth whispers to herself.

Pennywise watched her for a moment, noting the sadness behind her whisper. He knows Ruth shouldn't be alone after everything has happened today. He would love to stay behind and provide her the comfort she needs, but he is tired, and his weakened body needs rest. Pennywise can already feel a quiver within his core that his transformation is beginning to wane. He doesn't want to reveal his true form to Ruth, at least not yet, that is. This is not the time for him to show the real monster beneath his skin. He is afraid she would be horrified of what he is, and Pennywise doesn't want that.

He stares at Ruth for a second longer before flashing her a doggy smile, then continued his trek to the open basement door.

"Look," Pennywise starts as his feet begun to drag. "I appreciate you want to apologize, but it's not necessary. I may have been mildly hurt by you not trusting me, but I wasn't going to throw, "I told you, so," your way, Ruth."

Ruth looks at him then, guilt still evident in her golden-hazel eyes.

"Also, if I were truly unhappy with you, I would not have protected you from that scumbag."

She smiles then, albeit soft and content.

"You did do a pretty gnarly job in shredding Jackson's wrists and ankles. Thank you for that and for stopping him from taking things further. You truly are my profound superhero."

Pennywise inwardly grins, and his chest swells with pride.

"Anything for you," he replies, then starts down the steps to the basement. "I'll see you in three days. Please be careful while I rest."

Ruth smiled at him, flattered at his concern for her during his absence.

"I'm sure I will be fine, Pen. Besides," she trails off once Ruth realized Pennywise is not within earshot.

A frown adorns her pink lips, suddenly feeling very alone when Ruth doesn't feel the cold prickle down her spine. Pennywise had left, and so abruptly that it concerned her greatly. She didn't know he was feeling this terrible. Otherwise, Ruth would not have gone out to uncover the truth about her father and everything else. It all could have waited so Pennywise could have his rest after obtaining Bowers' knife. Then again, if they hadn't, Ruth would not have been able to say goodbye to her stalker, Rune. Thinking about him still made her feel sadder about being left alone here.

She heaves a sigh then casts her gaze onto the floorboards with shoulders rolled forwards.

"Vivian," Ruth whispers to herself, wincing only slightly at the name, yet felt elated. She always loved that name. Except, Ruth feels she is a new person being introduced into the world. After being called "Amber" every so often and only been referred to as Ruth, it will take a little adjusting. A part of her believes she has to mold herself into someone else she isn't. Maybe that's why Ruth is hesitant in excepting her given birth name. Except?

"Tie up loose ends," his voice replays in her mind.

She hums with puckered lips then acknowledges the purse that contained the envelope addressed to her, along with her father's will, which sat by the front door. Ruth stares at it for a long moment, then toothily smiles as if Pennywise had impersonated her. She stands tall with hands balled on her hips, her grin never faltering as she swiftly saunters to the front door, snatches the purse then struts down the hall.

"I do believe Vivian has some loose ends to tie up as well," Ruth replies out loud. "This is going to be loads of fun."

A/N: Rune is pronounced as ROO-neh.