~ It was almost the most beautiful day for a wedding. I would even argue that it was a perfect day for Adam and Levy's big day. Even with the temperature getting as hot as it did. There was a nice breeze here and there to cool everyone off enough that it didn't become too much of a problem. Just a little bit of sweat. I felt sorry for the groom and groomsmen for having to wear their blazers. Even I was feeling the heat with my wig. I wasn't sure how well I could conceal my brown hair if I styled the wig in an up-do, so I had to deal with the fact that the blonde locks were not going to help any overheating on my part. I sat in second row from the front, aisle seat, with Mrs. and Mr. Havoc on the other side of me.
Thankfully, the ceremony went as smooth as it could've gone. The only stumble came from Levy when she was giving her vows. She had to recollect herself to keep the tears away. She swore that she wouldn't cry, and she did a good job at keeping her word. Mrs. Havoc would off and on pat my leg, as if it comforted her and helped her get through her happy emotions. I was also thankful for Levy's break as I was also starting to get emotional. I'm sure just about everyone within hearing range was feeling something.
Both of their vows were beautiful. My heart even skipped a few times when Jean and I would steal glances at each other, from my seat in the crowd. The way that man would hold my stare. It was like what Adam and Levy were vowing to one another, resonated with him. I almost felt…panicked. I mean…completely thrilled but…in that moment, I realized that I had become too familiar with this lifestyle. I was forgetting life in the military…being a soldier. I think the part that ended up terrifying me is that…I liked it.
I was interrupted by my intrusive thoughts when everyone stood up cheering and applauded. I realized that Adam had dipped Levy down for a rather passionate kiss. I had practically missed their big moment.
Delayed, I stood and clapped probably a bit too gently. Despite being yanked from them, I couldn't shake the effect those thoughts had on me.
Adam and Levy laughed, enjoying this moment with each other before running down the aisle, that a few others and myself had assembled much earlier today. I had questioned Levy about having an outdoor wedding. Having to rely on the weather and elements to cooperate was too risky in my books, but Levy explained that this location had a lot of sentiment between Adam and her. Which obviously made sense as to why the ceremony had to be held here. The reception is also going to be outdoors, just at a new location. Levy's parents have a great big backyard that they were able to put together a decent sized dance floor and decorate beautifully. Everything was beautiful today.
Everyone else, from the wedding party to the guest, started to follow the trail of happiness Adam and Levy left behind them. A very straight face Vanessa cut in front of me as I stood up from my seat and she swayed over to her date that she brought.
Unfortunately, she was the Maid of Honor. Levy apologized to me one too many times about it, and I kept telling her it was nothing to apologize for. I understood. They were still friends. Maybe not as close as they once were but it was too late to make any changes in the wedding. I was mature enough to not let it bother me when she helped Jean down the aisle. He's made it more than clear that there was nothing between them. I don't even think there could be any kind of friendship now.
She still makes me unease with how she glares at me. I shook her coldness off, let Mr. Havoc know that we would meet them by the truck and made my way to my handsome boyfriend. There's just something about him in a suit that never fails to get me going. I hadn't seen him until he was walking…well…wheeling down the aisle with Vanessa. I was too busy helping Levy get ready that I didn't have any time to see him before the ceremony started. I don't know how it happened, but I ended up doing all of the Maid of Honor's responsibilities. I didn't mind too much considering the smile on Levy's face.
"Hey handsome, you ready to get out of here?" The other groomsmen patted him on the back and gave me a quick nod before they all sauntered off.
"I suppose." His tone wasn't all that enthusiastic. He wasn't going to be able to enjoy much of the festivities like he knew he used to.
"We can stay for the main stuff and cut out once it's all done." I said as I started to push him from behind.
"No. It's their big day. Plus, I know you're going to want to stay and dance until your feet fall off." Little did he know that I was 50/50 with that last part. Of course, I still enjoy dancing but…ever since that last night at the academy…no one has ever been able to capture me in dance like he did. Earl certainly came close, but I knew there was a connection when I was dancing with Jean. The Military Ball reminded me of that. I always lost myself in his arms. Even now…just his touch alone has such an effect on me. We saw his parents waiting by the truck for us. Mrs. Havoc was already in the truck, sitting in the middle.
"Do I need to see if Adam is still around to help?" I asked as I wheeled Jean to a stop by the passenger door.
"No, we should be fine. We did this earlier with ease." I held down the wheelchair as Mr. Havoc bent low enough for Jean to grip his dad's shoulders, letting Mr. Havoc be able to help him up and guide him to the opened door. As they managed to get him inside, I wheeled the chair to the back of the bed of the truck and lifted it up, laying in on its side. We shouldn't need to tie it down. We're not going very far.
"Alright Helen, we're ready for ya." Mr. Havoc said as he came around and stood next to me to slam the tailgate shut. Walking back over to the passenger door, Jean patted his lap. I held in an amused scoff and did my best to not hit my head on the door frame as I eased myself in the truck. I waited for Mr. Havoc to close my door before assembling myself, with my back leaning against the door. Jean wrapped his arms around my waist and gave a quick squeeze.
"Good to go." He said with the cutest smirk. Like he had everything he needed. The way he warms my heart every day. I brought my hand up to his check and gave it a gentle pinch. He arched an eyebrow, questioning the reason for the random pinch.
"You're a dork." I answered his stare. He only shrugged his shoulders and stared out the windshield as Mr. Havoc got in the driver's seat and started the truck. Mrs. Havoc gave us each a happy smile from the middle seat.
"Alright, hold onto her boy. There might be a few bumps along the way, and I don't need anyone bouncing around."
"Don't worry, pops. She isn't going anywhere." He tightened his arms around me one more time before Mr. Havoc put the truck in gear, driving to our new destination.
It was early evening now, and the sun had fully set what seemed just a moment ago. Practically everyone who was at the ceremony stayed for the reception. Levy's parent's back yard was now lit up with string lights in the trees and along the porch railing, and candles on ever table. The site was damn near magical.
Everyone was out on the self-made dance floor, twisting and turning with the live band that was playing. Levy and Adam had already done most of the traditional reception activities. Bride and groom first dance, cutting the wedding cake, linking arms, and taking a drink from their champagne glasses, and the father-daughter dance. Adam even had a mother-son dance. Adam's mom was just a petite woman and seeing him dance with her was just an overload of cuteness.
The band was playing plenty of fast paced songs for the party goers to get up and dance to, and there were only a few in their seats watching the fun. Jean and I were among the sitters. He kept assuring me that I could go dance with everyone. That he would be alright just watching. It didn't feel right though. I always knew him to be the guy to grab the first girl he saw and dance the night away. The few times I was the one to dance with him, you could tell just how much he loved it. Plus, just the thought of getting up and leaving him all alone twisted my stomach in the wrong way. I was perfectly content sitting here with him, watching the happy newlyweds have the best night of their lives.
Adam would every so often glance over to us, motioning us to come out on the dance floor. We would both shake our heads and give him some kind of motion with our hands to let him know we were fine just where we were.
However, this time, when Adam looked over, he gave a mischievous grin and ran over to us. I was confused when he extended his hand out to me.
"I'm not taking no for an answer." Adam huffed.
"Neither am I." Jean said next to me, as if that was that and I had no say in the matter. I shook my head to Adam, declining his invitation.
"Come on, Helen. Don't make me beg on my wedding day." I scoffed a laugh and looked to Jean who didn't seem amused.
"Go." Was all he said.
"I don't want to leave you all alone." My response left nothing but irritation on his face. Adam took the chance of me still looking to Jean and grabbed my wrist to pull me out of me seat and lead me to the dance floor.
"Adam." My protest was stern, but I knew it didn't matter. Adam spun me around and took the lead from there. The song was still upbeat with a fast tempo. I couldn't help but to start laughing as Adam twirled me around again and again, while also shuffling around, weaving in and out of other couples.
"I didn't know you could dance so well." I laughed.
"Who do you think taught your man? It wasn't his old man, that's for sure. Old goon's got two left feet." Adam joked.
"Well then I should be thanking you. Levy is truly a lucky girl." I said as Adam spun me out and brought me back in while doing a certain move. I almost lost my balance but laughed from the quickness of everything. "Slow down, cowboy. Before your beautiful new bride gets jealous." I said in between my laughter.
"She was the one who told me to get you." He was going one way but then quickly changed directions, nearly missing another couple. "And don't think you're leaving this dance floor without dancing with her."
"Alright, alright. Last thing I want is to upset the bride. Especially when the bride is Levy." I joked.
"Last thing I want is my best man upset." He said as he twirled me around.
"I just don't want him to hate or regret not being able to participate. I can't imagine how he might be feeling, especially whe-" Adam cut me off by dipping me, making me laugh in excitement. The way I was dipped, gave me the perfect view of Jean and that gentle grin of his.
"Does that look like a man that is holding any regrets about his situation?" Adam asked, giving me a moment longer to smile back at Jean before bringing me back up from the extended dip. "Because I see nothing but a man who is enjoying the view." Adam continued, slowing his pace from before as the conversation shifted to something more serious. "I guarantee you, Helen, you'll only make him regret and hate his situation if you hold yourself back." I reflected on his words and scolded myself for not coming to that conclusion myself.
"It's a good thing he has a good friend who knows him, like you do." I gave Adam a small embarrassed, but grateful smile.
"Hey now! It's my wedding too!" Adam took me by surprise again and did a more complicated spin, getting me to once again crack up. "No sad eyes."
We finished the song moments later, laughing and joking with one another when the band started a new, slower song. I squeezed Adam's hand quickly, ready to thank him for the dance when someone behind me grabbed me by the hips and spun me around to face them. Levy kept her hands on my hips and gave me an amused smile.
"Mind if I take over, husband?" There was a sensual appeal to Levy saying husband and it has Adam blushing proudly at his stunning bride.
"Not at all, dear wife." He stepped away for Levy and me to start swaying back and forth, as I rested my hands on her shoulders. We instantly realized that neither of us knew how to lead and it had us giggling.
"I figured the best man wouldn't get too jealous if I'm the one to dance the slow ones with you."
"I don't know. With how you're looking, I might be obligated to take you home with me." Levy faked a gasp, bringing one hand from my hip to hover over her open mouth, pretending to be shocked.
"The scandal!" She joked and our giggles started all over again.
"But seriously, Lev, you are just glowing! I'm tempted to ask what your secret is."
"Not much of a secret. Just get married and it comes naturally. One of the many wonderful perks of the happiest days of your life." My face heated with the sudden rushed fantasies of a certain someone and I getting married.
I couldn't help but steal a glance over to him. Adam and he were conversing, having a good time with one another, when he caught me starring. The way his face softened and the look in his eyes had my chest tightening. I quickly gave my attention back to Levy.
"So, you excited for your honeymoon?" I desperately asked, hoping the new conversation would help slow my heart down.
"I can hardly contain myself!" Levy did a few small hops from her newfound excitement. "This week is going to drag so much."
"Stinks that your parents couldn't get a sooner reservation, but super nice of them to pay for a pretty nice honeymoon."
"They still love to spoil me. All I can think about are the hot springs." Levy groaned out.
"Oh, I'm sure that's all you can think about. You, Adam, in the hot springs, naked, rubbing against-"
"Stop!" I burst with laughter from the many shades of red Levy's face went in a matter of seconds. "I don't need you getting me all hot and bothered before my husband can."
We continued to dance as Levy kept me up to date with all the wedding gossip. I couldn't help but place a bet on how long it would take someone to ask either of them to when they would be popping out kids. To my horror…I had already lost the bet, as a few people have already asked. What was wrong with people? Couldn't the happy couple enjoy their day? Why can't people just enjoy and live in the moment?
When the song ended, I once again tried to excuse myself back to Jean, but Levy once again had other plans for me, grabbing hold once again.
"You think you'd get away with just the one dance?"
"Shouldn't you be dancing with your husband?"
"I have the rest of my life to dance with him. I want you!" Levy decided to fasten the pace that we swayed and when our laughter died down and we had a moment of silence as we swayed back and forth with each other, I stole another glance to Jean and Adam with several thoughts swarming my mind.
"Hey Lev…" I felt her attention on me. The sudden shyness that came over me was baffling. She and I became rather close over the months, I even consider her a very close friend so I knew I could ask this question without much judgement from her. I just know the reaction this question typically brings. "How did you know…that Adam…he was the one?" I couldn't bring myself to look at her, but I knew if I kept starring at the two men, I would catch one of their attention and I didn't want that either.
I opted for scanning the crowd, seeing all the new faces that I've met throughout the day. Some were familiar as I've met them over the weeks with helping with wedding preparations, others were complete strangers.
"Good question. Which surprisingly hasn't been asked all that much." I heard her give a small giggle. She paused a moment as if she was really trying to pinpoint the exact moment. "We've been friends for so long. All of us. He dated others, as did I but…one day he just…asked me out. It threw me for a loop. I never saw him in that way before but…for some reason I said yes. I think it was just something that happened over the years. I got to know him in ways that I never did as just a friend." She had my full attention. She was so soft in this moment, reliving this memory. "I think the day or rather, moment I realized was when he came over one day, very early in the morning and he brought me flowers and made me breakfast. It was such a simple thing but…I remember how much my heart swelled for him and I just thought, I'm going to marry this man." Her cheeks burned softly as she reminisced.
My pulse had quickened when I saw a few similarities from her story to my own, only…mine happened much quicker. Which in sense, scared me. I know the moment I fell for him, but the moment I realized that I was going to marry Jean came just a few weeks after. That stupid bonfire sealed the deal, and I was never able to move on from that. It never helped that he was always in my sight. Perhaps if I had been assigned to a different headquarter after my graduation, maybe things would've been different.
"People never realize…" I smiled gently to her, masking the fear that was building up in me. "That it's the smallest of things that get you. It sneaks up on you so fast that you don't have time to try to fight it off. Sometimes all it will take is a just a look or even just a kiss on the forehead…" I trailed off as the memory overcame me.
"I know. So many people always think that it's the grand gestures that win over. I think a lot of it is also all the trial and errors you go through together. Through everything Adam and I have been through, we always fought for each other. That's why we're here today. We never let the problem outweigh our love for each other. I think that's one of the most important parts." The song finally came to an end, and I let Levy's words sink into me. She gently grabbed my hands with hers and gave them a small squeeze. "All this reminiscing is making me miss my husband." She glowed as the word husband left her lips. Releasing my hands, she met Adam halfway off the dance floor as he was already making his way to her. They kissed gently and started dancing with one another. I couldn't bring myself to go back to Jean. I couldn't even look at him as the subtle panic rose in my chest. I walked off the dance floor in the opposite direction, past the crowd and left the reception area all together. I needed to be alone for a moment.
The evening air was also pleasant. Barely a chill in the slight breeze which didn't do me any good. I needed to cool down as it became more difficult to breath. I repeated to myself that I needed to calm down, but it only worsened with each step I took.
How was all of this going play out? Sooner or later, I would have to go back…right? I can't keep living my life here like my old life never existed. I'm still part of the military. I might be considered AWOL, but I just know that Mustang has something up his sleeve to fix that.
Mustang.
I still have no clue as to why he shipped me off. I still don't understand the desperation to get me away. Yet here I am. Playing little civilian. Pretending that I have a normal life, as if settling down, getting married and then raising a family was something in arms reach. This wasn't my plan. I was supposed to see the world. How did I get here?
Covered in sweat I finally stopped in my tracks. I was finally able to control my breathing as the realization hit. Did I still want my old life? Did I even want to go back? What I have here with Jean is something that I've wanted for so long yet…until today I was fine with how things are. I think the wedding vibes got to my head. I hadn't noticed that my life plans had changed, and it shook me. For so long I was content being where I was as long as he was near. That thought both comforted and terrified me. This isn't how it was supposed to-
"What's wrong?" I jumped as I turned around to see that he was so close. I should've known he would follow me. Looking back at the path I took; I'm surprised that he made it here. Not that there were any obstacles or steep hills, but it certainly probably wasn't the easiest on his own.
"Nothing." I knew once I said it he didn't believe me. I didn't have time to adjust my thoughts.
"Abby." Hearing my legal name after so long…hearing him say it, sent me to my old life. I became far too aware that Helen was only a character in the life that I was forced in. I could feel the panic starting all over again. "Talk to me." He rolled closer, which despite all the open space around us, had me feeling claustrophobic.
"It's nothing, Jean. I'll be fine." I know I will. I know I'm just going through something and I'm sure by tomorrow I'll feel dumb for having these thoughts. He reached for my hand and took it while grazing his thumb on the top of my hand.
"If you really don't want to talk about it, I'll let it go but…you look like you're in the middle of a break down. I know you and I know you'll feel better if you just get it off your chest." The battle with myself, going back and forth with telling him or not, begun.
He was probably right. Plus, I knew Levy and Adam might look for us. I hoped not, as it was their day. They shouldn't have the time to be thinking of anyone but themselves, however, knowing them…
"It's just…" I wanted to tell him, but I was scared. These thoughts weren't easy to say out loud and I couldn't know if he would take them the way that I needed him to understand. "I guess this day just got to me a little. It's brought up some thoughts that I hadn't realized I was suppressing. Caught me off guard." I squeezed his hand for a moment, hoping the gesture let him know that I was, in fact, okay.
"What kind of thoughts?" I knew he would ask this. I don't know if I was brave enough to tell him. I closed my eyes, hoping the strength I needed would come. And it did.
"My life turned out so different. I hadn't realized until today." I slipped my hand from his so I could pace freely as my nerves built up. "I mean…I was supposed to be seeing the world. Meeting all kinds of people. Getting experiences and opportunities that most people wouldn't get. Living my life to its full potential but…" I stopped myself as I knew what the next few words were going to be, knowing that the only way he was going to take them was the wrong way. It was difficult, but I met his eyes, and they told me that he got my implication without me having to finish. I could see the conversation we had so long ago, under the stars, refresh in his mind.
Before I knew what to say next, there was a commotion back at the reception. Both of us looked in the direction and then back each other knowing that we weren't done with this conversation. I came to him and helped him turn around, pushing him back to the reception. There were a few people who screamed and shouted something, and the air became denser the closer we got.
"Wait." Jean outstretched his arm, holding his hand in a stopping position. I stopped us and scanned the area as he did. We were still far enough to not be able to hear what was being said but we could make out who was who. Having perfect vision was always useful.
We both saw at the same time who had crashed the party. Military personal. Actually, it much worse. It was Bowie's team. Bowie had the audacity to ruin such a day. I stepped from behind Jean and the few steps I took had vengeance under them. Before I could take another step, Jean grabbed my wrist and held on tight as he knew I would try to rip away and I did try.
"Stop." He said through gritted teeth.
"Let me go. He has no right-"
"Of course, he has no right but what exactly are you going to do? It'll most likely be five against one unless you expect people who aren't involved to get involved. Like Adam. And then what? He spends his wedding night bruised up or even worse, dead? Not to mention you don't have your gloves." His disapproving tone hurt for more than one reason. Mainly because I knew he was right. I stopped carrying my gloves with me months ago. Even if I did have them with me, I've been so out of practice that I couldn't guarantee that I wouldn't hit an innocent bystander.
I looked back to Jean, with desperation in my eyes. What was I supposed to do? What were either of us supposed to do? Jean sighed as he read my expression.
"You need to cut through the field and get back to the store and hide in your usual spot. I'll try to keep them here as long as I can. Stay in the shadows as much as you can. On the chance they do find you…" He didn't have to finish. I knew what he was saying. It's all on me if that happens. What I choose to do.
I looked back to the reception and Bowie was giving a speech of some kind. At least that's what I was assuming since it seemed he was talking non-stop. I hated the thought of running. Especially when it was my fault that Levy, and Adams happiest day was ruined. There was no choice though. If I was caught, I wasn't going to be the only one punished. If they could prove anyone was harboring me, there would be repercussions. They probably wouldn't even need proof.
"I'll find you when this is all done. Don't move or make a sound until you hear our code word." I only nodded as I slowly released myself from his grasp. Not giving myself time to watch him wheel himself the rest of the way, I ran.
I was unfamiliar with this part of town. I've only been here a couple times with wedding stuff, but I should be able to manage just fine. As flashes of the faces, I cared so much for, Mrs. Havoc, Mr. Havoc, Adam, Levy and Jean, raced through my mind, knowing I was leaving them all behind, I prayed that they would remain safe tonight and we would all discuss this tomorrow morning over breakfast. I prayed that there would be breakfast tomorrow and no funerals.
I don't know how, but I made it with minimal getting lost. I did make one wrong turn and I cursed myself the entire time it took me to get back on the right road, but I still made it. I made the decision to make a quick stop at my apartment and was hoping it wasn't a grave mistake.
I figured in the long run it was best to change into clothes that I knew I could fight in and grabbed my gloves. The fact that those two things would increase my chances immensely was worth the risk. I did my best to change in record time, with a few stumbles and tripping over my feet in between, found my gloves and a hair tie in the small chest I placed on one of my bookshelves and booked out the door, not locking it behind me. To feel more secure, I slipped my gloves on. They felt foreign to me which was weird all on its own. How long has it been since I wore them last? Has it really been that long? I decided to walk to Havoc General. The less attention I draw the better.
It felt like eternity, but I found myself unlocking the store with ease and quickly locking it behind me. I rushed to the back of the store, keeping all the lights off except the one light that always stayed on in the way back, and found my hiding spot. It was an emptied-out crate box that was stashed among the large bundle of crates that held supplies. I opened the lid to my decoy crate and decided to rip my overheating wig off and threw it into the crate. I quickly put my hair in a sloppy ponytail, not caring how it looked as long as my hair stayed out of my face. Taking a deep breath, I took one step into the crate then…
"Hello, Major." I froze as fear swept through me. That voice. I knew it and it was not friendly.
I looked to the thin shadows and First Lt. Mara Addams stepped into the light. I was in deep trouble. She was known for many things and the two that had me sweating was her paralyzing poison that she dipped on all her weapons and her inhuman need for conflicting pain. One of her nicknames was 'The Merciless Tormentor'. The fact that she was quick on her feet didn't leave much room for hope. Especially in the tight space we were in. I needed to find a way to get outside and fast.
"Addams." I calmly spoke as I lifted my leg out of the crate. I quickly scanned my surroundings. I knew the back of the store quite well which should be considered an advantage but…
"You've been quite a pain in the ass this last year. You really put Colonel Bowie through quite the mess." Colonel? He got promoted? What the heck did he do to get that? A year? Has it really been that long? "He was threatened a dishonorable discharge if he couldn't get you back to Central in a week's time. Lucky for him, a tip came in yesterday." Her toxic grin had my sweat turning cold. Tip? Who the hell gave a tip?
She gave me a once over and had a disapproving scowl etched on her face. "You look awful." I couldn't help but scoff a laugh out.
"Should've seen me a few hours ago. I was fine as hell." She rolled her eyes and took an attacking stance.
"So how are you going to do this? Easy or...who am I kidding? You're gonna go hard." Thank God I didn't blink because if I did, I wouldn't have had the chance to jump out of the way of her throwing knife that I'm sure was oozing with poison.
I rolled onto the floor and landed into a defensive pose. I'm sure she has more than her share of knifes on her. I needed to be light on my feet, which normally isn't a problem, but it's been awhile. I just needed to get one good strike on her, and it should give me enough time to get the hell out of here. Honestly, I wasn't hoping for the best.
She brought forth two knifes that seemed to have spawned out of nowhere and charged me in the narrow walkway. She didn't have much distance to cover so I had to make my decision quick. Without thinking I snapped my fingers and aimed for the middle of chest, hoping it would hit its mark. I'm sure Mr. Havoc would understand if I blew up his merchandise. However, me hitting my target would be good for all parties, except Addams, of course.
I breathed again, when I saw my lightening hit her chest and she seemed to have frozen in place, as her body pulsed from my lightening. I turned to run back the way I entered, hoping I didn't put too much charge behind that snap. I didn't have too much time to worry as I was brought down by an immense pain in my legs. I hit the floor hard and let out a soft groan in pain. How?!
I think my adrenaline masked most of the pain I know I should've been feeling. I brought my hands to the back of my thighs and felt a throwing knife in each of them. I already felt them start to tingle, knowing that was the poison working.
I pulled the knives out with a loud grunt and angrily threw them in whatever direction before I attempted to make another break for it before my legs became useless. I hit the door to the main store but she was able to throw another set of knives and they hit each of the back of my biceps. I cried out in pain this time but didn't stop.
I had to get out of here. I turned the knob and stumbled out slamming into the end cap of one of the aisles. I could feel my legs going numb and I fought my way to the front of the store.
The poison took in its full effect by the time I made it to the picture window, and I fell to ground, barely able to catch myself with my tingling arms. My head bounced off the floor just enough for it rattle the noggin.
I started to desperately crawl my way to the front door, putting one bent arm in front of the other. My arms were tingling aggressively like they did when they would fall asleep and I was trying to wake them back up, but I knew this time there was no waking them up.
I was forced to stop just in front of the front door as the poison took its toll. No matter how hard I tried and begged my body, I couldn't move any of my limbs. I turned my head to the side as I panted for air. I hate to say it but…I can't think of a shittier predicament I've been in. I think this one takes the cake. Her demonic giggling brought my full attention back to her.
"Oh yah. I'm gonna enjoy this." The way she said that scared the shit out of me.
"How did you recover so fast? That spark should've had you flopping for at least another minute." My protest was met with another spine-chilling giggle. At least I could still feel my spine.
"Unlike you, I've always done what it takes to get the job done. You wouldn't believe the things I do, the things I expose myself to, just to build up my tolerance. The amount of pain I conflict to myself would have you begging for death in just a few short seconds. So, your little small socket spark was nothing short of blissful to me." That's impossible. I know I wasn't aware of the wattage I had used but I know I didn't underplay that snap. This girl had to be some kind of monster. There's no way she was human.
My situation was starting to sink in. No one was going to save me. No one was going to clean up the mess I've made. I shifted my head to look away and placed my forehead flat on the floor.
"Aw…are you gonna cry?" Foulness continued to drip from her words. As much as I wanted to, I wouldn't cry. Not in front of her. I was already pathetic enough; I didn't want to add onto it. I grinded my teeth as I cursed myself for being so useless.
What sounded to be a commotion pulled me out of my self-pity party. It sounded like there was someone here who was giving Addams a run for her money.
I tried to turn my head as much as I could, but I could barely see Addams trying to get something off around her neck before she disappeared into the darkened aisle. My eyes stayed wide as I tried to see what was going on, but I had no luck. I heard someone walk up and hover over me.
"Who's there?" A newfound panic bubbled into my blood as I knew nothing about this new party that joined Addams and I.
"You're safe, Lovington." That voice. I haven't heard it in so long, but I knew it. Tears of relief flooded my eyes as I relaxed my neck and let my head rested on the floor.
"Lt. Ross. I can't tell you how good it is to hear your voice." I fought to hold back the tears. As far as I knew, I wasn't out of the woods yet. I couldn't let my emotions take control. I could still hear Addams fighting for her life with the second mystery person. Even sounded like someone got slammed into the ground. I hope it was Addams and not my hero.
"It's good to see you too. Are you alright? Can you move?" I couldn't help but let out a chuckle.
"I'm not sure and no. That bitch paralyzed me with her poison. I have no idea how long the effects last or how much it effects. From what I can tell it's staying in my arms and legs. Doesn't seem to be moving elsewhere."
"That's good. We'll get you somewhere safe, bandage you up and keep a close eye on you." I nodded with appreciation as the sound from the aisles came to a silence.
The sound boots and of someone panting came closer and Ross adjusted herself, and I heard the click of her gun as I assumed she pointed it to the dark. I feel we were both holding our breath as we waited to see who the victor was.
"Man, that bitch put up one hell of a fight. I think she gave me a few bruises." I couldn't see who it was, nor did I recognize the voice. I know I've heard it before, but I couldn't put a face to it. I just know it wasn't Addams and for that I was thanking the stars.
I felt Ross ease up and she let out a breath of relief. I did the same as I was still trying to figure out who my other rescuer was. I heard one of them take the knives out of my arms and threw them off to the side. I probably would've sighed with relief if I could feel anything.
"Help me flip her over." Ross ordered as she holstered her gun. I felt a hand on one of my sides and figured their other hands were in places that I couldn't feel. "One, two, three." Ross counted down and they both flipped me over with ease. I squirmed what I could to get in a more comfortable placement. I was finally able to see the face of my second or maybe first rescuer.
"Wait. I know you." Her onyx eyes skimmed me over before meeting my stare. "You're Hawkeye's friend." Yes. I do recognize her. She came to visit Hawkeye every once in a while when we were stationed at Eastern. I've also seen her with Hawkeye a few times around Central.
"Second Lt. Rebecca Catalina. Nice to officially meet you, Lovington." That's true. I never gave myself the time or chance to actually meet her.
"Yah, you too. Thanks for saving me." I couldn't help but give her a smile that I'm sure had relief written all over it.
"Thanks for keeping her distracted. You put up a pretty good fight." Her words comforted me more than they should have.
"Thanks." I was back to fighting the tears into my ducts and I was triumphant in the matter.
"You didn't…" Ross trailed off as Catalina and I looked to her to finish her question. Ross only made a gesture with her head to indicate what she meant. Catalina snorted out a breath with an amused smirk.
"No. She's still alive. Unfortunately. She's just taking a nap…that I forced her into." She must have choked her out long enough that she passed out. I wonder how long she would stay down? I don't want to be around long enough to find out.
"She seems to be alright. What do you think?" Catalina asked Ross, referring to me now.
"I mean yah, she seems fine but it's not like I'm a doctor." They both did another once over on my body before staring at each other. They both had no idea what to do and I was right there with them. It wasn't a normal injury. None of us knew if the poison would affect any other parts of my body. God help me if it went for my lungs. "I guess we should get her out of here, clean her up, get her bandaged and wait to see how long this last." Ross offered. I nodded in agreement, not having a better idea. Catalina also nodded in agreement.
"First things first though. I need to tie up our little masochist friend. Don't need her waking up and stirring up any more trouble." Catalina got up and started walking back into the dark aisles, back to Addams. The word friend would've been the last one I ever would have used for the girl.
"Make sure you pat her down and swipe all her weapons." Ross called out.
"Yah, yah. I know. You don't have to worry. I'll dot my I's and cross my T's. Hey Lovington, where can I find some sturdy rope?"
"Aisle 4."
I explained to Catalina and Ross where they could hide Addams until we could figure out a better solution for her. We knew sooner than later Bowie was going to be searching for her but for the mean time, she was going to spend some quality time in my decoy crate. By the time they had her bound enough for comfort and safely placed in the crate, my limbs were starting to get tingly again. Ross and Catalina helped me walk to the back of the store again. They said they had a safe place to clean me up.
We maneuvered through the narrow walkway. As we approached the back door, I became confused. I was only assuming that this way was the quickest and hopefully safest way to get to their hideout. At this point I didn't care. As long as I was able to rest and see Jean again. That's all I wanted. My thoughts stayed with him and the others that were still at the reception. I wonder how long Bowie was going to keep them there? He better not do anything to harm anyone there. If I find out he did harm someone, once I got full use of my limbs again, I'd be going after him.
Ross pushed down on the door handle and shoved the door open as all three of us shifted out the door sideways. As I heard the door slam shut behind us, I became even more confused as my eyes found an out of place ice cream truck that read Funny Bear Ice Cream.
They guided me to the back of the truck and Catalina let Ross take all of me. I shifted and gave Ross an apologetic glance. She gave me an understanding smile as Catalina opened one of the back doors to the truck. She motioned for Ross to bring me forward and when I saw what was inside the truck, I was struck with bewilderment. Let's just say it wasn't ice cream being stored in this cutely painted truck. I gave a crazed glance to both Ross and Catalina before fixing my eyes on the treasure inside.
"What the hell?" ~