Chapter 12:

Roll With the Punches

The next day, I woke up and realized Jake wasn't with me anymore. It broke my heart at first, until I read a small note he'd left to inform me that he'd be returning later but there was something he had to take care of.

Deciding I would worry about it later, I rose from my bed to head to the bathroom where I brushed my teeth, showered and dressed before starting breakfast. I fancied I would make some French toast and bacon for the day, and then I would go wake Mar and clean him up so he could eat.

I smiled, recalling his endless stories about how much he enjoyed spending time with Mrs. Stephanie before I tucked him in last night. He loved to read books to her, in fact - he loved showing off his smarts and amazing her with them. He was a little guy with an ego but it was cute on him.

When I returned to my room last night, Jake was still there insisting he was going to stay with me until I fell asleep. I wanted him to stay the whole night but he claimed that could only work on nights when his father wasn't home.

Jake wasn't sure how his father would react to us 'dating' and really I felt the same. I imagined he would be disgusted with the idea that his son was dating the hired help. Ms. Excella didn't have any qualms about us at all, but Mr. Wesker was different - he was controlled and distant. I feared his reaction - he may not mind me being around Jake, but that didn't mean he would be alright with us getting close.

In other words, our relationship was to remain a secret for the time being.

While this hurt me some, I knew it was for the best. Besides, I was supposed to be focusing on Mar's well-being too and the happier he became, it brought relief to my troubled thoughts.

I started up the stairs when I footsteps emerging from the library and narrow hall. I gave Mr. Wesker one of my friendliest smiles and he approached. He was wearing the usual all black attire and shades, in his arms was a white box decorated by a purple ribbon.

"Good morning, sir." I sang, playing with the sleeve of my sweater and maintaining a smile.

He acknowledged my presence with a simple nod, I moved aside to let him up the stairs past me but he presented the box to me.

I looked the box over tentatively as he gently handed it over to me. It was quite heavy, I was curious what was inside. "Um, am I to take this upstairs for Mar-"

"It is a gift for you." he intercepted nonchalantly. "Excella enjoys entertaining the idea of you being her very own doll, despite the authenticity that you live and breathe."

Another gift from Ms. Excella? Wow... she's quite the giver. Images of my Halloween costume made me curious of what she was giving me this time.

I watched as he climbed the stairs and made a start to follow him but he stopped me with his raised palm.

"Marlowe will be coming with me again, Miss Birkin. For today and most of tomorrow - we will return Wednesday evening so he will not be absent from his schooling on Thursday." he informed me.

I blinked, a bit curious but very hesitant to ask anything. I forced another smile onto my face. "More father and son time, sir?" I implied lightly.

"He is my son, Miss Birkin - you are not to question my motives for anything I do."

I flinched and backed down the stairs until I was standing on the floor. "I-I'm sorry sir, I didn't mean to -"

"Put that gift away and prepare a plate for Marlowe." he instructed, continuing his ascension to the upper floor. "He will eat and then we shall make our departure shortly afterwards."

I was trembling, even after he left my sight. I walked on shaky legs as I went to my room. I sat the box on my bed and fingered the neatly wrapped bow around it. My thoughts were of how short patient Mr. Wesker had been. It was so unlike him - perhaps he was a bit cranky in the morning and just didn't want to be bothered. It wasn't often I saw him early - he usually showed himself around 9:00.

I glanced at my watch and noted it was 6:25, he was hours early.

I wondered where Mr. Wesker took Mar whenever they would go somewhere together. It wasn't my business, true – but I couldn't help but be curious. I remembered how we had caught the same plane upon my coming to Europe and it was just the two of them. I imagined it was a business related trip but what point would he have in taking Mar?

Maybe Jake knows? I'll be sure to ask him.

A short while later, Mar came into the kitchen and I fed him, cleaned him up and presented him to his father. I hugged him tightly, placed a kiss on his forehead and cheek before surrendering my little angel over. I was hurting inside to watch him go, but he was excited - explaining to me that he loved riding planes because he was high in the air and was flying.

He was a typical child, cute, naive, and happy. I loved his optimism. As long as Mar told me everything would be fine, I had nothing to worry about. He was a genius, he looked after my well-being just like Jake did and was always honest with me. So if he said things were going to be fine, I believed him.

Before they left, Mr. Wesker gave me another extraordinary paycheck that I tucked away in my savings along with the others.

I wished them both a safe journey.

With Mrs. Stephanie upstairs asleep, Rebecca not due for arrival for another few hours, Jake was missing and Mar now gone.

I felt lonely.

I awoke with a stir - something was tickling me.

I tried to fight this tickle off but it got aggressive. I smacked at it only to discover it was a hand. I giggled uncontrollably as more than one hand tickled me all over. I opened my eyes and discovered it was none other than Jake - a silly grin plastered on his handsome face.

"S-Stop J-Jake!" I choked out as I kicked and fought.

He finally stopped and let out a laugh. "Mornin' Supergirl, what you doing sleep? Where's the little guy?"

I hated to answer that, I was still quite upset about it - Mar and I were close, he was like my own child or something so whenever he was taken away now it just hurt. After he left with his father, I just lay down on my bed and drifted off to sleep, hoping to dull the heavy heart feelings.

With Jake and Mar gone it really bothered me.

But I have Jake here now... I should feel a bit better.

Jake tilted his head a bit, observing me. My eyes turned into saucers when I realized my skin was tingling. He was touching me, which meant he heard everything I was thinking. Not that I minded, but I really needed to start paying attention to my skin from now on.

"He took him again, huh?" Jake looked to be thinking hard on this.

"Jake, what type of work does your father do?" I asked him softly.

"He works for the U.S government." he answered simply. He began stroking the skin around my hip - so that was where his hand was... My sweater must've risen up when he was tickling me.

"So... why does he need Mar?"

"Nothing to really worry about." he shrugged. "I go with him sometimes - mostly for the longer trips. It's nothing really, he just meets people, they talk - make arrangements for things and then we come home."

"Why did you stop going with him?" I sat up, allowing him to sit on the bed with me.

"I haven't stopped. I mean, that's how I get paid." he said casually. I sent him a curious look. "Yep, when I turned 18 I was finally old enough to get paid for my services. I go with him whenever he's got the big missions."

"H-How long are you gone... when you go I mean?" I felt miserable at the thought of it.

He stroked the side of my face for a moment before he leaned in and kissed my forehead. "Don't worry baby girl, I'm not going anywhere. I don't need any money right now so there's no need to worry."

"But how long do you leave for?" I pressed, desperately. I hated the idea of him leaving for weeks or months at a time - a year would destroy me.

He sighed. "Last time I left I was gone for only a few weeks... nothing too extreme though so don't worry too much." he pulled me into his arms and kissed my forehead, cheek, and nose before pausing over my lips.

I blushed and leaned back on my bed so he could climb on top of me. When our lips met I melted, wrapping my arms around his neck allowing him to deepen the kiss. As his warm, wet tongue caressed mine, I felt myself calming some.

I wanted him to kiss away my worries.

"Mhmm, Sherry," he hummed. "I know what will cheer you up."

"What?" I almost whined because I missed the feel of his lips already.

"Let's go to dinner later - you know, have a little night out on the town. How does that sound, baby?"

I pressed my lips to his softly. "That sounds great, baby." It felt good to call him that.

He smirked and jumped up suddenly, startling me. "Alright then! First things first, put ya sweats and stuff on - we're going for a morning jog!"

I was so excited about Jake taking me out on a date, the first thing I did [after returning from our jog and later workout...] was send a text to Claire and Leon. Claire was so happy for me, she called just so she could squeal in my ear and when I told her she didn't have to babysit for the day she jokingly told me she was lonely so Steve would be stopping by the compensate for Mar [we all know what she had planned].

Leon on the other hand demanded I dress appropriately and implied the importance that a lady never offers her 'goods' on the first date. Ada later stole his phone and texted me telling me good luck and to ignore Leon's over protectiveness - she told me to just have fun and dress to kill.

Claire and Ada teaming up against Leon never failed to make me laugh.

I was very happy that Leon was going to be in London for a few more weeks. I'd already arranged to meet with him again before he had to leave. I was looking forward to it.

It was growing close to 18:00 when I stepped out of the shower. Jake told me not to worry about dinner for Mrs. Stephanie and Rebecca, he was leaving some money for them to get some food. In the meantime, I was supposed to get ready.

I was a nervous wreck as I raced to my room, naked - searching for something to wear. I had no idea what to wear on a date. I could have asked Claire but I couldn't at the time - she was at work now, a late night breakfast party and she had invited Steve to go with her.

My towel dropped to the floor as I shut my door, rubbing some strawberry scented lotion on and spraying myself with a body mist of the same aroma. When I moved to try searching my wardrobe once again, I tripped over the gift box I was given.

Then it hit me.

Ms. Excella was really good with making me look sexy - she knew what fit me better than I did.

Could it be I got lucky and she sent me something I could appeal to Jake in once more?

I tore off the ribbon and opened the box. I saw two pairs of black heels, one was almost like an ankle boot with a high heel and a buckle around the top, and they were suede. The other pair was simple with pointed toes, they were sexy stilettos.

Then I saw a few pairs of lingerie dresses and undergarments [which I skipped over for the time being], some newly packaged tights [fishnet and the other was sheer], three sets of garter belts and thongs [this time there was a white set, the other two were black with one containing some red laces] and finally I reached exactly what I was looking for.

Evening dresses.

Thank you Ms. Excella! You're awesome!

There were three. One was a very short and simple black dress that was fitted around the torso but had two layers of ruffle skirt at the bottom - it was a halter dress. The second was also not very lengthy, it was a sequent green with a split down the torso and other colorful designs of blue, purple and black. It was also a halter dress with strings that were black.

The last dress made me swoon, I simply had to wear it - it was the sexiest of the three.

Tight, short [very short], sleeveless and black with a split down the middle, stopping a few inches above the belly button. In the back, there was a strap made of the same material as the dress down the center of my back - along my spine with three more straps protruding from each side to meet the front of the dress. It stopped two inches beneath my buttocks in the back.

I liked how my breasts looked in it, they looked 'bouncy' and perkier - then again, it could be from my lack of a bra... I also loved how long my legs looked and how it fit my curves.

All the kinky outfits I'd been wearing recently had really gotten me to enjoy them. I felt almost feverish at the idea of Jake liking it. I hoped he did.

I decided to put on the sheer tights Ms. Excella had packed in the box [I feared I would look like a whore with those fishnets...]. At the last second, I felt bashful again and decided I would put on a light blue cardigan sweater about the same length of the dress. I laid it on my bed while I finished getting ready.

I did my own hair and makeup this time around instead of bothering Claire. I went with simple eye shadow and mascara and a little lip gloss. As for my hair, I combed my bangs down either side of my forehead and the rest of my hair was normal.

Just as I slipped on the suede boots, I heard the lounge door open. My heart began to race. In that instance I dropped my phone. Cursing, I bent over to pick it up when Jake knocked on the door.

"Hey baby girl, you ready?" he asked jovially.

I bumped my head on the bed frame then. "Ow... um - Just a second!" I called, rubbing where the ache was. It wasn't too bad of a bump but it still made me cringe – still the pain didn't last long at all before I recovered.

"You okay?" he sounded concerned.

"I'm fine, I'm just looking for my phone is all." I replied, finally grasping it.

"Can I come in?"

"Sure!" I chirped, standing up and straightening out my dress. I was praying he would like it. I considered putting the sweater on then but when I turned to my bed once again, my stomach turned to knots.

The box full of girly surprises and lingerie was on my bed - its contents scattered all over the bed.

And Jake was coming in.

I sprang into action, tossing everything inside the box. Jake opened the door as I was forcing all the items into the box. I glanced at him sideways for only a second - his eyes had widened. Had he seen something? Oh God I would die of embarrassment. I dropped the box onto the floor, pushing it into the corner of my room and turning to him.

My face was burning from shame of what he'd seen.

Then I realized his eyes weren't on the box - they were solely on me.

I took that moment to scan him over. He looked so good. He was clad in all black, a button down dress shirt [the top three buttons weren't fastened so I got a delicious view of his chest and his sleeves were rolled up as usual], jeans, and dress shoes. He wore a chain around his neck and had another expensive watch on his right wrist.

He smelled so damn good.

"J-Jake..." I almost purred but I stopped myself. "You look great." I wanted to run my hands all over his muscular chest through that shirt of his. I wanna rip that damned shirt off and just do something reckless!

He came closer and his eyes were hard, piercing through me. Was he angry? I felt his fingers run along my back where my skin was exposed. I was burning again as I took in some air. I saw him studying me, his eyes traveled over every inch of my body, particularly my chest area.

"Wow..." he breathed, "You look so damn sexy." he drawled out with that deep husky tone I was so taken with. He pulled me close to him, our bodies collided and I couldn't stop myself from moaning just a bit when we met. "Mhmm, you know I have no problem saying to hell with this date and just ripping that off of you to run my tongue over every inch of your pretty glowing skin – but..." he kissed my cheek softly. "You're uh... much more to me than that..."

I giggled at his awkward tenderness. "I know that no matter what you'll be good to me, Jake." I cooed into his ear. He was really turning me on. I wrapped my arms around his middle and kissed his cheek. "I'm glad you like the dress." I added shyly.

"I'd like it even better if it were on the floor - where it wouldn't interfere with my need to touch you." he growled into my ear, it came from deep in his throat. He was fighting back that monster in him that wanted to claim me.

I wished he wouldn't fight it.

"I wish I didn't have to fight it either." I blushed, I had forgot he was able to read minds... "But I have to baby - you deserve more than just a quick fuck and then it's done. No - you deserve everything."

I backed away from him slowly, his hands didn't chase me - he just stood there, stiff as a statue. It was quite scary that he could do that - if it weren't for his breathing, I would think he was an actual statue. I watched as his eyes were glazed over with what I was sure was need. I felt the same but he promised me dinner.

If things went well tonight, I would be sure to give him whatever he liked.

He groaned as his hand came up to wipe at his face. "Damn, I'm sorry but you look so tasty baby girl." he grumbled.

I fidgeted. "Should I change?"

"Hell no." he almost snapped, I jumped a bit and he cleared his throat. "Sorry it's just - you look amazing. You always do but there's something about that dress on you that makes you look so shy yet inviting - you look willing and like you... need me to do things to you...but you're scared of what I am capable of."

I gasped, feeling so enticed by him. "I'm not. I really am willing..." I whispered.

He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, then exhaled. "Come on baby, let's go out for dinner." I nodded slowly, reaching for my cardigan and purse. "Sherry... you think you could be nice to me tonight?"

I sent him a smirk. "Sure, if you behave yourself."

"Anything for you baby girl."

The restaurant Jake took me to was very fancy with a beautiful view of London Bridge at night. The weather was calm for the night, a chilly breeze came from time to time but it wasn't too cold for us to handle. We had a table outside [as per both of our request] and sat facing each other with a little candle light on our table. Jake asked for a bottle of champagne so that was also on the table along with two champagne flute glasses.

We both ordered steak dinners and as we Jake decided to start up some conversation.

"So, I noticed you keep looking over at the bridge." he chimed. I shot him a look. "Beautiful isn't it?"

I blushed and nodded. "Very - the night lights make this whole place just seem so beautiful."

"I'm glad you like it." he said, shifting in his chair.

I twiddled my fingers. "So, what's your favorite movie?" I asked curiously. I always seemed to catch him watching Fast and the Furious and wondered did he like it as much as I did.

He chuckled. "I like Terminator." I blinked and he laughed at me. "You thought I was gonna say that racing movie huh? Sorry baby, I don't like it."

My mouth went agape. "B-But you watch it so much! A-And I've seen you-"

"I used to race in competitions like those." he stated casually. I tilted my head waiting for an explanation. "Those movies ain't got nothing on the real deal. I only watched 'em to make fun of it."

"Really?" I scoffed playfully. "This coming from an Arnold Schwarzenegger fan?"

I laughed heartily when he glared at me. "He was the guy back in the day and you know it." He snorted. "By the way, is that fake ass racing movie really your favorite?"

I pouted. "It's one of them. I also like Fight Club and I'm a pretty big fan of the Rocky movies."

"Sylvester Stallone fan eh?" I nodded to him. "Heh, you like movies about shit I do on a daily basis - uh I mean, I used to." he corrected once I frowned at him.

"Yeah, I never had a lot of excitement in my life - you're definitely full of surprises that's for sure." I reached across the table and placed my hand on top of his. "I'm really glad I've met you, Jake."

"You're so cute baby girl." I pinched his hand and he just laughed at me.

The rest of dinner went perfect. Jake and I talked the entire time about everything that came to mind. Though I didn't approve of him disrespecting my taste in movies, I did enjoy his sense of humor - it was crude but he managed to make me laugh anyway.

I learned quite a bit about him. Jake was a very active guy in just about everything - because of his restlessness. He didn't like to be bored so he was very quick to look for new hobbies. Throughout the seasons he would find different things to do to keep him entertained. I learned that he knew how to ski, enjoyed hiking, he liked camping [in 'spooky' areas - the weirdo], and he had a bit of wanderlust so that was one of the reasons he still stuck with his father.

Apparently Mr. Wesker had wanderlust too. The family had at least five different homes around the world. Two in the U.S, one in Finland, another in Moscow, Russia - and the last of course was here in London.

I loved listening to his stories. He told me about times when he and Helena got in trouble with the law when they were younger, he talked about how his mom would read him literature from all around the world – his favorite tale was Arabian Nights or One Thousand and One Nights. I even learned that he was homeschooled by a lady named Ingrid Hunnigan until he turned 18. He had to be homeschooled because the family traveled so much and registering at schools was pointless for that reason.

Hearing that, I began to wonder if I would end up homeschooling Mar until he turned 18.

Jake and I walked beside each other, my arm locked around his as we made our way to his car. When he opened the door for me, I wrapped my arms around his middle and looked up at him.

"Jake, you said I enjoyed watching movies about shit you used to do on a daily basis." I recalled. "Does that mean you used to street race?"

He chuckled. "Yep, I drove motorcycles, trucks, cars - you name it. I used to own a few sweet ass rides that I customized myself but I sold 'em a year back."

I bit my lip. "You sold all of them?" I asked slowly. I wish I could have seen them...

He considered me for a moment before ushering me gently into the car. "Come on babe, it's starting to rain and I ain't got no umbrella - don't see you with one either."

I felt drops of rain on my head so I listened to him. He shut the door once I got in and came around to get in the driver's seat. Once he started up the car, I sighed blissfully feeling the heat come on warming me. It had gotten pretty cold out, probably because of the rain now.

I heard Jake sigh and I looked over to him. He was eyeing me, his eyes traveled from my legs all the way up to my face.

"Heh, now that I think about it... I did keep one ride."

I smiled. "Can... can I see it?"

He nodded, a smirk on his handsome face. I squealed happily but that quickly turned into a glare when he patted his lap. I knew damn well what he was implying. He laughed. "Just kiddin' baby, I'll take you to see it - on one condition..."

"What?"

"I want you to ride it with me."

"J-Jake... I can't, I'm wearing a dress." I protested meekly, fiddling with the bottom of said clothing. He ignored me and tossed a helmet in my direction - I caught it awkwardly. I tried again. "Jake-"

"Live a little, Supergirl." He said simply.

He drove me to the ever familiar city we'd been in before when he did his fight. I recognized it the moment we passed the bay where we all gathered and waited for Steve's limo to take us home.

Jake went a little bit farther into the old, crumbling town. I saw as we passed through the city that there were quite a few criminal acts taking place - even with numerous witnesses around. I noticed prostitutes, drug dealers, and I could even see corrupt cops in the area. It was quite sad to look at.

Finally, we arrived at a large bolted gate that surrounded an open field and what looked like a warehouse. Jake opened the gate and then pulled into the building through a shutter door around the back. Once we entered, I confirmed it was a warehouse, with a lot of kickass cars, trucks and motorcycles. A lot of them were just amazing to look at - and there were so many!

Apparently, he and Steve used to collect these vehicles but now they were just interested in selling them. The ones I saw were owned by Steve but Jake lead me a bit further to the last ride he owned.

It was a motorcycle.

"I just couldn't sell this one," he said. "It was my very first bike – it's hard to let it go."

It was one hell of a bike that was for sure. It was a big motorcycle, the tires seemed to make it stand tall. It was red and black, with designs of fire and lightning all over it. When he started the bike up, it roared to life and the lightning on it lit up while the flames seemed to dance. There were lights along the rims that changed whenever the lightning and fire did.

"I'm glad you kept it. It's beautiful." I sang with a blush on my face.

Jake had changed his dress shoes, swapping them for a pair of boots in the trunk of his car, and then he retrieved a two leather jackets from the trunk as well, wrapping one around me [it was much too big] and putting on the other. Lastly, he strapped a helmet on my head and then he put his on.

And now he was waiting for me, one foot planted firmly on the ground, balancing the motorcycle, patiently anticipating my joining him.

I was nervous.

He sighed and held his arms out to me. "Come on baby girl, I'll take care of you - I promise."

I inhaled sharply and demanded my nerves cease their insistent quivering. I allowed him to help me onto the bike and held him tightly around his middle. Dear heavens please let him be a sane -

We sped out of there so fast I didn't get a chance to scream...

Jake circled the area a few times and after that I became more comfortable. It was very fun! I finally understood why Claire was so fond of motorcycles - the ride gave me a sensation as if I were flying.

"Jake, could we ride to somewhere else?" I asked over the sound of the engine and wind whistling as we rode.

"Sure! I'll show you where we used to race!" he replied. He took a detour around another building and started on the streets.

"What made you stop racing?" I asked.

"Got bored of it." he said eyes locked firmly on the road ahead. "The fast life's fun and all but after a while I just wanted to do somethin' else."

"Did Helena race with you?"

"Nah, Babe only showed up for the shows but she never raced."

I was leading to this line of questioning for a reason. I really wanted to know why Jake called her 'Babe'. I knew I had no reason to be jealous but that didn't mean I still wasn't... just a pinch. Jake had a nice amount of nicknames for me - there was Supergirl, Sweet girl, Baby girl, and the one I liked because it was a guilty pleasure of mine, Naughty girl.

But he was consistent with calling Helena, 'Babe'. I was curious as to why...

"Jake, why do you call Helena, Babe?" I spoke timidly.

He was quiet then, he made a left turn into a vacant parking lot and sped through it. "Why? You jealous, Supergirl?" he teased.

"Oh shut it!" I retorted embarrassed. "You can't tell me why?"

"When I first met her, we were at a family gathering - mom's side of the family cuz I ain't got no idea about my dad's. Anyway, my mom told me she was a distant cousin and wanted me to go meet her and make friends."

"So, you two are related?" I verified, he nodded in response. So that explains why they act like siblings - they met young and are related to each other.

"Well, I can only fill in blanks for you because there are some personal bits in here that I can't explain," Jake finished. "But Helena would baby sit me sometimes if Hunnigan was off and my parents were too busy. We always watched this movie about a little pig. I know he was on a farm at first then there were some sequels and shit but I didn't care too much for 'em."

"I used to joke about how Helena looked like the pig. It was funny as hell to see her get so heated and try to choke slam me. Eventually I started calling her the pigs name so much she just said fuck it and got used to it."

"You were calling her 'pig'?" I asked puzzled.

"Nope, the pig's name in the movie was Babe. That's why I call her Babe." He laughed and soon I did too.

"How could you?!" I giggled. "Helena's nothing like a pig!"

"Yeah, I know - but it's still funny as hell!"

Sometime later, I could make out an old rail yard ahead of us. Jake pulled onto the dirt road and I observed the place as we cruised through it at a moderate speed.

It was dark but thanks to the lights from the bike, we were able to see some. There were old box cars sitting on crisscross tracks, separate from their freight cars. Many of these were flipped over or had graffiti writing on them. The stench in the air was of oil, rust and maybe charcoal.

From the rail yard, I could see the city below - I hadn't noticed we'd ascended above it. There was a forest around the city, Jake must have taken a short cut because I never saw any trees on our way. I felt a scared, we were out in the middle of nowhere almost with no one around - if anything happened, there was no way we could get help. I had no signal on my cell and I highly doubted there were any working payphones.

Jake pulled to a stop at an edge where we could gaze down at the dark, crumbling city. I wondered how there were even people possibly living in this place. The last time I was here the place looked dangerous of course - but now that I'd seen more of it, I realized there was so much about it that was ... desolated.

Like a city abandoned by not just the people, but the earth itself.

"This town used to be full of life with both industrial and agricultural work." Jake spoke gravely. "All the factories and warehouses you've seen are symbols of a city that worked for a living. Apartments so close to the job they may as well had lived there. Just past this area is a large open field with forgotten farmhouses - where farmer's and animals were abundant. The farmers provided animal meat for the townspeople, and fruits and stuff..."

"But now all that's left is debris, darkness, and secrets. These buildings that still stand are just remnants of a society thrown away not too long ago. As for the farms, the crops are dead, the farmers are gone and the stench of dead animals and waste is enough to make your nose try to fall off." he sighed. "Just goes to show what can happen to life in the blink of an eye."

"What happened?" I asked disturbed by it all. I climbed off the bike to stand beside him as he spoke.

"My mom told me it happened nearly 19 or 18 years ago. Apparently, the transporting of goods turned into illegal drug trafficking - from God knows where. Word has it that people went crazy from something they got exposed to. The factories were closed down first, and then the farmers were attacked - blamed for it all. They claimed it was some mad cow disease shit but there was no proof. The people went apeshit and desperate for means of food and money - most resorted to drugs and crime. As a result, employment rates fell drastically and thereafter, the city went piss broke."

"Why didn't the civilians just leave?" I questioned.

"Government wouldn't let them. They sealed the city off entirely - afraid of something getting out. Most believe that the fed's created some powerful weapon of mass destruction - you know, bio-weaponry shit and tested it on the people here. The side effects probably were so bad they were too afraid to risk it getting around the world. So the people and the city were locked away for years. Thus, the city of Spencer was no more."

Spencer - why is that name so familiar? I looked around, shivering. "S-So, where did the people go? I-I mean we're here now... couldn't they just -"

"Relax baby girl - you're safe with me." he smiled and wrapped an arm around me.

"But Jake, what if whatever they were exposed to is still around here? What if we -"

"Let me finish, Sherry." Jake intercepted with a chime, holding up his hand to quiet me. "Around the time Babe and I started our 'life of crime' business, the city had finally been reopened for tourism after like 13 years of being condemned. Tourists came here all the time for the first few years but then when a folk tale emerged about a mansion in the forests around here harboring the townspeople - people freaked and never came back. Now the only people you see are criminals and people like me looking for a place to do bad shit and not get caught."

"I thought that 'used' to be you." I teased.

He huffed. "You know what I meant." he paused. "Hard to believe people really freak out at the idea of people turning into monsters." he shook his head. "Why not do something about it? Why not ask questions?"

"Is that tale true?" I asked nervously.

He shrugged. "I don't know - I mean, it's weird as hell that the whole forest is blocked off, and I did hear from my mom that the old leader of this city did have a mansion deep in the mountains over that way." he pointed to a very dark mountain area. All I could see were more trees because of the darkness. "But I guess it all depends on perspective. I've lived a hard life, seen the crazy side of people and I've gotten to the point I don't believe in monsters - just people - sick, crazy ass people."

"Have people ever gone to the mansion - I mean, is there a way to?" I asked scared but curious.

"Through this rail yard, opposite of the farmlands. The farm is still open for access because of the isolated street way but through the tunnel there, there's a detour to mountains." he gestured behind us. "It's completely sealed off by concrete and stamped with condemned signs."

"So that's why when we came here I didn't see any trees." I confirmed. "Because the forest is sealed off..."

He nodded. "Yea," his gaze traveled to the mountains and so did mine. "It's fucking creepy ain't it?"

"Yeah..." I shivered, wrapping my arms around him. I glanced over to the dark tunnel that was completely void of light, the tracks led a straight line to it, disappearing into the abyss.

"When you live a life like mine, zombies and monsters don't seem real at all. The whole idea of monsters and shit is just so unlikely." Jake said. "But I wouldn't put it past the government ya know? They like to cover shit up all the time."

"You've never tried to go see anything have you?" I prayed he didn't.

"I would have to believe it to do that." he replied with a shrug. "I don't believe it."

"I understand." I said. "Can we go? I'm not very comfortable here." I pleaded.

"Sure." he helped me climb back onto the motorcycle and we made our way in the direction of the farmlands.

I glanced back once and felt my body shiver more than usual. I wasn't too cold, so what was with the overwhelming chill suddenly? It was as if there was something truly wrong with this city. The darkness wasn't natural - especially not with the moon shining so brightly in the sky and it was too quiet, not a cricket to be heard and animals were absent entirely.

A town void of life and forever trapped in darkness.

When we reached the farmland, I was shocked to see a pretty fair amount of people and custom cars hovering before a narrow street. It stretched far beyond my vision and was bordered by open fields on both sides. I saw a crumbling farmhouse in the distance but the road seemed to pass that up as well.

I protested against Jake approaching the group at first until I made out a very familiar face.

Brown hair pulled into a pony-tail, olive skin and that voice was hard to miss.

It was Sheva!

"Holy shit!" I heard someone say as Jake stopped the bike and we both got off it. "Is that Jay?!"

"Looks like you've got more fans, Jay." I cooed with a grin.

He smirked as we closed in on them, most of them racing towards us, including Sheva. "What can I say? I'm amazing."

Jake was bombarded with questions by the many people while I was tackled into a hug by Sheva.

"Sher!" she sang.

"Shev!" I mimicked. "Oh my gosh I missed you!"

"I missed you too! Sorry I haven't called recently, Carlos and I have been pretty busy." she laughed and then pulled away, eyeing my outfit. "Wow, talk about sexy. You look good girly!"

I blushed, sitting the helmet Jake gave me on the seat of the bike. "Thanks," I observed her fitted skinny jeans, tall boots and leather jacket. "You look great too. How have you been?"

"Great, I've got some wicked awesome things to tell you. By the way, what's with you and Jay?" I flinched. "You two dating? What happened to you and your boss's son?"

Jake cut in just in time. "Thundercat..." he acknowledged. Wow, he had a nickname for everyone. Piers was Loverboy [or Jarhead, depends on the day...], Claire was Firehead, Helena was Babe, Leon was Hero, Mar was little guy and I had too many nicknames...

Sheva grinned. "Hello Jay, you better be good to my Sherry. She's precious you know!"

Jake smirked and then the crowd around us got wild. I noticed Carlos emerge from the small mass and pat Jake's shoulder a few times. He greeted the both of us.

"You here to race, Jay? Cuz that sweet ass ride of yours is always a show stopper for to these guys." Carlos said, wrapping an arm around his shoulder.

Jake sent me a look, his brow raised as if asking for my approval. I sighed and gave him the 'you better be careful Jake Muller-Wesker' look. "Go on, Jay." I nodded with a smile.

The group followed Jake and Carlos, I just noticed there were many more people than I thought, some had been waiting in their hot rides for challenges. There were a few girls standing around scantily clad and holding up torches to light up the dark area. I started to fall behind Sheva - feeling shy from the new faces I was seeing but she took my hand and pulled me beside her.

She was such a caring and protective person, a great friend to me. I felt guilty I hadn't shared anything with her. I hoped to ask Jake for permission once he raced and [he better] came back to me unharmed.

Jake was going to race against a few more people. They all had motorcycles of impressive designs but I liked Jake's the most. Before he the race started, Jake signaled me over with his index finger. I blushed and walked over to him – I heard men whistling as I did.

He was sitting casually on his bike, a smirk stamped on his handsome face. He handed me my helmet and I leaned over slightly [but not too much so my dress didn't ride up] so he could whisper into my ear. "Hey sweet girl, you mind givin' me a kiss for good luck?"

I flushed but felt a rush of pride knowing that while the girls in the area wanted him, he was all mine. "My pleasure," I cooed as I was pulled closer. My face grew hot when our lips met – People were cheering and whistling, I wasn't sure what to think, it definitely wasn't something I was used to.

Jake's hands encased my face when we pulled apart. He chuckled softly, I imagined I looked like a cherry in the face… "You really do sweet girl, you look just like a cherry." I bit my lip, and then shook my head feeling a bit bashful. "But thanks for that," he whispered. "You're awesome, baby."

I giggled a bit. "My pleasure, Master." It felt good to actually give him a nickname. I chose 'Master' because he told me he would be my master if I would belong to him. He was all mine and I was all his.

His next move caught me off guard completely. One of his hands came around to smack me firmly on the ass. I squeaked at the contact – not because it hurt, but because I liked it, I mean I really liked it…

Do it again!

Jake laughed heartily and then started up his bike. "Let's do this shit!" he shouted wildly, putting on his helmet. Everyone started to cheer and I felt hands come around my waist. I glanced over my shoulder to see it was Sheva.

"Good luck!" I beamed back to Jake.

He nodded to me. "Stick with Thundercat until I get back, alright?" I nodded and blew him a kiss.

Sheva stood beside me as a woman wearing a very tight leather body suit came out in front of the racers. I crossed my fingers as tightly as I could as she pulled out some sort of gun, it looked almost like a 9mm pistol [I watched a lot of violent movies…].

Once a round sounded off, the racers took off and the sound of burning rubber echoed throughout the area. I cheered, keeping my fingers crossed as Sheva bounced up and down beside me.

"Where do they go?" I asked her. "I mean, how far down?"

"There's a finish line a little more than 19 kilometers [12 miles] down." she replied. "There's a group down there that confirms the winners and such, and then they all come back and we learn the winner."

I hugged myself. "In other words, we've got a while before they return…"

She nodded. "It's okay, Carlos and I won't let anything happen to you Sher."

I smiled. "Thanks but that's the last of my concerns – I'm hoping Jak – Jay comes back safely." I caught myself very quickly.

She tilted her head at me and leaned in towards me. "You know his real name?" she whispered.

"W-What? No!" I responded hurriedly but still in a hushed tone.

She frowned a bit. "Sherry, I already know his real name, he's told us – you being his girlfriend, I'm sure you know it too."

I bit my lip. "I-I… yes, I do know it…"

"His name is Jake Muller-Wesker." she whispered. "You know that of course."

I nodded. "Yes, I'm sorry – I just wasn't sure if you knew it or not and I was sure it was a secret."

She gave me a short nod. "I understand, don't sweat it." she led me away from the groups of people over to a small wooden bench.

As I sat beside her, I observed our surroundings again, the rail yard was some feet behind us but where we were was surrounded by dead wheat's and busted tires among other things. The crowd nearby was loud, bustling with conversations, rough housing amongst each other, and drinking beers as we all awaited the results of the winner.

"Sheva, I work for Jake." I admitted softly. She looked at me with wide golden cat eyes. "Sorry I didn't tell you before. This all seems like a secret life for Jake and I wasn't sure if he was comfortable with me saying anything. I'm the Nanny for his family and I figured he wanted me to keep it all in confidence."

I looked at her and noticed she had her head lowered and was facing her lap. "Please don't be angry, Shev – I never meant to upset you, I was just worried about –"

I stopped after I became aware she was breathing heavily. I wrapped my arms around her. "Sheva, are you alright?" I asked worriedly.

"I… I'm okay, I think. I just feel so tired." she replied with short breaths. "My stomach is bothering me…"

I hugged her tightly, stroking her back to give her some comfort. "Want me to go get Carlos?"

"No… No I don't want to trouble him." she said, shaking her head. "I wanted to tell you something…"

"But Sheva you –" my jaw dropped as she fell over into my arms, completely unresponsive. I screamed and started to shake her, my whole body trembling in fear of the worst. "Sheva!" I cried repeatedly.

In a frantic state of panic, I began shouting for help but no one seemed to hear me. I tried to stand, hoping I could carry her over to Carlos and the rest. I looked around desperately, I couldn't see him anywhere! I shouted for him, tears streaming down my face as I tried pulling Sheva with me off the bench. She was too heavy and I collapsed onto the dry wheat with her on top of me.

I struggled to roll her off and once I finally did I pulled her into my arms and began to try dragging her towards the crowd. They were blasting music from their cars and completely unresponsive to my despaired pleas for help. I dragged her a few feet from the bench before I tripped over a tire and fell again.

"Someone help!" I cried out pathetically for someone to show themselves. "Someone please – I need help!" Jake where are you?! I need you!

"Everythin' alright there, little lady?" I gasped and looked up to see a group of guys hovering around us. Why didn't I notice them before?

I got a bad feeling when I noticed the devilish glint to their eyes. I couldn't speak, I wasn't sure what to do – I was certain these guys were bad news but I needed help. They made my skin crawl, my eyes darted all over as I looked for anything to defend myself in case they tried anything.

"What's wrong? We just wanna help sweetheart. You ain't scared are you?" the same guy taunted me. He wore a big black jacket with a hoodie, I couldn't make out his features but his eyes glowed in the dark of his hood.

Maybe they're actually here to help? Sheva needs help, if one of them goes to get Carlos I could stay with her until he arrived.

"M-My friend needs help, if one of you could please go get her boyfriend Carlos – she really needs help!" I pleaded.

He crouched down and observed her for a moment before looking at me. "Wow, she's really outta it."

"Yes, if you could please –"

"Yeah, I'm not doin' that." he stated coldly.

Suddenly his friends started to surround us, I grasped at Sheva's unconscious body and tried to pull her away from them only for one of them to grab me from behind and yank me to my feet.

"Get your filthy hands off me!" I shouted as I struggled against him.

"Shut up, bitch!" my captor spat and I gasped, suddenly overwhelmed with terror.

I was only one girl going up against five guys all by myself – my friend unconscious. I stood no chance on my own.

Someone please help us!

I felt a pang in my gut when I saw one of the men pick Sheva up and into his arms. He chuckled as he groped her unconscious body. I felt utterly disgusted and full of rage – what piece of shit takes advantage of an unconscious woman?!

I started to scream and curse as I fought desperately to get away from the man holding my arms behind my back. "Leave her alone you cowards!" I shouted with a fury I never knew I was capable of.

The guy with the hoodie came up and laughed at me before I felt a sharp sting on the left side of my face. I saw stars for a moment when I realized I wasn't facing him anymore – he must have slapped or punched me. My left cheek burned, my jaw ached too but only for a brief second, and then the pain faded away – a cool sensation replaced it…

He removed his hood and stared at me with wide eyes, his mouth slightly agape. "What the…?"

I was speechless, unsure of what was wrong. I looked over his shoulder and noticed the man carrying Sheva was staring at us. He looked confused – I didn't give a shit, as long as he let Sheva go.

"What's wrong, boss?"

"I shoulda knocked her teeth out – what's with this bitch?!" he responded, looking at me horrified. "Dude she just like… healed herself or something!"

The guy holding Sheva laughed. "Heh, yeah right boss – you just imagined it." I fought against the guy behind me, I was ready to kick all of the men between the legs and make a run for it with Sheva somehow. "Knock the bitch out already – I wanna have some fun."

"You let her go!" I yelled hysterically, picking up my feet and kicking at the guy before me.

He frowned and let out a roar. I shut my eyes tightly as I felt the impact of his fist to the right side of my face this time. I cried out in pain, before my vision turned black – but just as soon as it did, my eyes snapped open. I tasted blood in my mouth, my jaw ached tremendously, and it felt out of place.

I realized my tongue was bleeding from something sharp sticking into the side of it. I was sure it was a tooth – the throbbing ache crippled me from trying to feel around my mouth with my tongue and make sure. I let a tear escape from my left eye, the pain was unbearable.

"Looks like that did the – what the fuck?!"

I felt a sharp burn in my jaw and heard a crack as my jaw snapped back in place. I cried out and more tears escaped from my eyes. I could feel the teeth that were piercing through my tongue – they seemed to push out of it and signal my gag reflexes, I spit them out along with the pool of blood. There were five teeth knocked out of my mouth from where the power of his fist connected with my face. My tongue was cooling now but I cried out again – causing the guy behind to me to release me.

I crumbled to the dead wheat on the ground gasping for air at the agonizing pain that reestablished in my jaw. I felt five quick stabs push through my gums and then everything was cool. I felt no pain whatsoever.

What just happened? I gasped for air now that everything in my body felt… normal. Did I… Did I just heal myself?!

"Dude what the fuck?! What are you?!" my assailant cried out mortified.

"Here boss, use this!" another guy came up and handed him a sharp object. A knife?! Oh my God – they're going to kill me!

I quickly rose to my feet as I backed away from him. He stalked closer to me, a dangerous look in his eyes as he neared. I pleaded with him to leave me be. I caught a glance of the guy leaving with Sheva thrown over his shoulder.

"N-No! Stop!" I cried out – immediately I noticed the guy with the knife make a move to jab me in the chest with it.

Everything was in slow motion. I closed my eyes and said a prayer as I waited for the pain to come. I was going to die from being stabbed to death. I was going to be murdered in a field – with people nearby but too wild to even notice. This was all happening because I tried to help my friend.

Was it worth it? Of course – Sheva would do the same for me… right?

I'm sorry Mar, I'm so sorry I won't be able to watch you grow and keep you happy.

I'm sorry, Claire. Leon. Piers. Helena.

Jake… please forgive me. I… I think I love –

I heard a loud crack, followed by an earth shattering cry of sheer agony. I peeked one of my eyes open and gasped, tears swelled in my eyes.

It was Jake.

With glowing red-orange eyes…

He hovered over my attacker who now was flat on the ground with his face down. Jake's fist was balled tightly as he glared down at the fallen man. The other guys looked on in horror at what just happened. I had no idea what Jake had done to him, but whatever it was – I wish I could have seen it.

"Boss! Oh shit –" one started but I blinked and Jake had flashed over to him and kicked him powerfully in the chest. Another crack sounded out as the guy flew through the air crashing into another, they both hit the ground with a loud thud and were unconscious.

In that second, another guy ran up behind Jake with a knife drawn. Before I could even shout out his name, Jake countered him.

"Too slow." I heard him growl before he elbowed him forcibly in the face. The guy did a back flip in the air before landing on the ground face first.

Jake fought with such power and speed, I knew he was surely not human. He devoured the group without effort, that savage glaze in his eyes remained as he attacked the man holding Sheva. I saw his fire-like eyes flash as he punched the man with a flurry of blurred fists, once he finished the man dropped Sheva and collapsed to the ground.

Jake picked her up and brought her over to me. I stared at him in a daze, I felt conflicted – I appreciated his help but his eyes scared me. I crouched down in front of me and held her out to me.

"J-Jake…" I whispered, tears falling.

"Sherry," he started, fiery eyes met my own. "Touch Sheva's skin, it should wake her up."

"What?" I asked breathlessly – I was confused and my throat felt dry.

"Hurry, before the others come over." I noticed they were approaching quickly.

I did as Jake instructed and touched Sheva's face with my index finger. A second passed and she began to stir. My eyes widened as her tired eyes met mine. I was speechless. Jake touched my hand gently and closed his eyes. I looked back and forth between the two people touching me.

Just as everyone arrived, Jake reopened his eyes – cerulean blue like normal.

What is going on?

I began to feel dizzy. Sheva sat up and groaned, saying something to me but my head was spinning and I couldn't register anything. I saw Jake stand up and heard him shouting ferociously at everyone before everything turned dark.

I peeked my eyes open slowly, the sound of a car engine made me stir awake. I groaned softly and stared up at what I was sure was the roof of a car. I was resting on leather in the backseat. My jacket had been removed and my blue cardigan was acting as a pillow for my head along with one of Jake's jackets. I sat up and rubbed my throbbing head, I felt like crap.

I realized I was in Jake's car, he was in the front seat driving the car – his eyes locked firmly on the road. I looked around, we weren't in Spencer anymore. We were on a freeway, most likely making our way home.

"Finally up, huh?" I blinked as I looked at him. He was smirking at me in the rear view mirror. "You okay baby?"

I nodded tiredly. "W-What happened?"

"You passed out, Carlos and Sheva let you ride in the car with them while they followed me on my bike back to the warehouse. I got the car and now we're on our way home."

"What about Sheva?" I asked worriedly. "Is she okay?"

He pulled off the freeway and stopped at a place where I could clearly see the London Bridge and water. I shifted a bit and Jake opened got out of the driver's seat to open the back door. He ushered me to scoot over and climbed into the backseat with me.

I barely had a moment to breathe before he was all over me, hugging and kissing me all over my face, avoiding my lips though. He uttered remorseful apologies over and over, holding me tightly. He apologized for coming so late, for everything.

I started to cry as the memories of what happened reemerged. I grasped onto him with everything I had, returning the kisses he gave me and offering my own apologies for getting myself in trouble.

"No… no you did nothing wrong baby." Jake protested, brushing my hair away from my face with his hands before encasing them around it. "It's my fault – I shouldn't have left you. I shouldn't have left you in such a fucked up place!" he fussed at himself before burying his face in my chest.

I sighed and held him there, just indulging myself in the feeling of security. I was safe with him. I knew he was capable of protecting me and would do so no matter what. I felt warmth spread through my body – he was everything to me.

"I'm sorry, Supergirl – don't worry, we're never going back to Spencer again. I promise you that. We're gonna stay here in London where you'll always be safe with me."

"Baby," I started and he looked up to me with a resolved look. "How did you find me?"

"Remember the glow thing we're always beating around the bush with?" I nodded. "That's how."

"Tell me about it, baby." I cooed sweetly but tiredly.

"You glow in the dark. I don't know why but you do. It doesn't have to be nighttime or anything, it just needs to be dark and you'll light up the area with that bright light of yours. Like the moon in the night sky."

"You and Mar are the only ones who tell me this." I mentioned quietly.

"My dad can see it too." I blinked at this. "It's because of what we are."

"What are you?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Jake scoffed. "We're different – we're advanced humans."

He moved away from me and sat upright on the seat. I did the same but I faced him with concern etched on my face. I wanted to hear more – I needed to. His eyes were focusing straight ahead, on nothing in particular and he let out a slow breath and lowered his head. I waited patiently for him to continue.

"I don't know much, but my dad's always said I was special – and now that Mar's around he's also in the category. I don't exactly know what we are, but we have perks that normal humans wish they had."

"Like what?" I asked.

He raised his head and rested it against the headrest. "Advanced strength and stamina – we're strong enough to destroy just about anything with our bare hands. I've even wrestled off bears in the woods before during my camping trips..."

"Wow…" I breathed. So that's why he fights so tough.

"There's more," he continued. "We've got accelerated speed, our sense of smell and our hearing is similar to canines – there isn't much that can escape us. We also have above average intelligence and we're immune to viruses."

"Talk about superhuman." I said quietly, taking in all the information he was providing.

"Yeah, but there is a down side to this." I tilted my head to him. "Our sight isn't very good in the dark. To make up for it, we are able to enhance our sense of touch and be very tactile. We can feel anything in the vicinity once we do that."

"Is that why you… touch me so often?" I questioned meekly.

He glanced over at me finally and held out his hand to me, which I took without hesitation. "You're a bit more complicated than you can imagine, baby – you sure you wanna hear it – I mean, you ready?"

I contemplated his words. A short time ago I was a normal girl with family issues. I lived an average but lonely life as I tried to make more of myself every day – but ever since I came to the Wesker home, I … changed. I met people that helped me to find strength and I learned that there was a fighter inside me.

I wasn't afraid of much anymore.

The feeling was there, I just knew I was different like he was… And I wasn't scared to embrace it.

"I'm more than ready." I confirmed.

He nodded and gave me a small ghost of a smile. "I don't know much about you – but you're different just like me. Your glow in particular…" He massaged the back of my hand with his thumb. "It's significant to us because of our vision."

"Everything about you caters to my senses." he said. "Your smell is soft – you use all those strawberry soaps and stuff but you smell more like lilac flowers either way to me. When our skin connects, that jolt that you feel is probably because of me but your skin does things to me too – but I told you that before."

"Yeah, but speaking of skin contact – why did you tell me to touch Sheva?" I asked. "Does this go along with you calling me 'Miss healing touch'?"

He nodded. "If your skin connects with someone else you heal them for some reason." I tensed up – unsure what to think. "I don't know why but I noticed it after I fought my dad. When you passed out, I was on the verge of passing out myself but you started to shine more and I got curious and touched your cheek… I felt cool all over and next thing I knew I was fine."

His hand came up to caress my cheek – I imagined it was the same one he touched that day… "You healed me…"

"H-How did you know it didn't just work on you?"

"Because after I uh changed you," I blushed at that. "Rebecca showed up and she mentioned to me how odd it was that Mar recovered from an allergy like he did. She told me it was almost like the time my mom had her panic attack. I started asking her questions and Mar came out of nowhere talking about this cool feeling he got when you touched his face and then Rebecca started talking about when you brought some wet towels for my mom but before you came in she was in really bad shape."

"She said in those two moments you entered my mom slowly recovered… So I got a quick question for you." I nodded. "You lived with Claire all those years before coming here right?" I nodded again. "When you lived with her did she ever get a cold or sick or something?"

I laughed. "Everyone does at some point."

"But has she gotten sick when you lived with her?"

"I… I don't know." I answered honestly. I couldn't really recall if she did or didn't.

"Okay then, what about that Leon guy?"

"I never lived with Leon, but he would catch a few colds from time to time." I said with a small smile. Leon hated being sick because it made him look 'terrible' – his own opinion. "Every time he did, I would stay at his place with him until he recovered."

Jake nodded. "How long did it take for him to get better?"

"Usually he was better by…" my eyes widened. "The next day…"

Jake smirked. "Mar and me aren't like normal humans. We need you to touch our skin to heal us. Maybe normal humans just need your presence to recover…"

I was taken aback. "B-But Sheva didn't recover even though I was in her presence." I stated, baffled by all of this.

Jake huffed and considered me for a moment. "She wasn't in any pain – she was just well – this is a hunch but I felt another presence with her, I think she's pregnant."

"P-Pregnant?!" I shrieked and jumped up – banging on my head on the car roof. "O-Ow…" I rubbed it for a brief second and then that familiar cooling sensation came.

Jake chuckled. "This is a wild guess but I'm thinking you never got a cold before or been sick and every time you get injured you heal yourself."

I bit my lip as the scenes from earlier flashed in my mind and I remembered being hit and attacked by the guys. I recalled the pain I felt when my attacker knocked my jaw out of place, how my teeth pierced through my tongue… And then I remembered the cool tingling in my mouth as I spit out my teeth and more pushed through my tender gums…

"What's wrong?"

I gasped, realizing I had begun to cry. Jake reached for me and I wiped the tears away from my face and then relaxed in his arms. "N-Nothing…"

Jake shot me a skeptical look and I winced when his eyes flashed with fire. "J-Jake please, I-I'm fine – but you're right, I can somehow regenerate." I told him. I didn't want to think about those guys anymore. They got what they deserved when Jake kicked their asses – dwelling on the event would help no one. "Tell me about Sheva – why did she awaken when I touched her face?"

He stared at me for a while before answering. "I told you to do that because when I picked her up I noticed she felt hot. I thought about your touch and thought maybe it could help some – apparently it did."

"And if she is in fact pregnant she could have passed out from a number of things." I thought aloud. "If she felt feverish, it could be from overheating – maybe she didn't get enough fluids… Jake, where is Sheva now?"

"She swore to high heaven that she was fine but I dunno." he stated with a shrug. "Carlos said he was gonna take her to urgent care."

"Jake please," I stroked the scar on his left cheek. "Take me to her – I need to know she's okay."

Jake groaned. "It's just a baby, how bad could it be?"

You obviously haven't the slightest clue about babies now do you Jake? I pinched him and he shot me a look. "Jake please, I just want to know if she's pregnant or not."

"I'm sure they will tell us tomorrow." Jake grumbled jokingly.

I almost hit him but his cell phone began to vibrate. He pulled it from his pocket and held up his index finger to silence me while he answered. I could hear a loud voice shouting hysterically on the other line.

"What?!" Jake exclaimed. I jumped a bit and looked at him fearfully. "By who?!"

What's going on?! My breath caught in my throat as a pang shot through my stomach.

Jake and I raced towards the hospital's A&E entrance and burst through the doors. The whole scene was hectic, there were doctors and nurses racing about speaking medical mumbo jumbo that I didn't really care to listen for. I looked around frantically for Sheva and once I saw her I raced over and hugged her.

Jake didn't tell me anything about the call, he only said we needed to get here and quick. I had no clue why but I panicked, assuming it was Sheva who had been in need. Seeing her fine threw me off a bit but I was relieved – if it wasn't her than who?

Sheva led Jake and me through the hordes and towards Carlos. I noticed he wasn't alone, David and Steve were also present. I thought Steve was with Claire at the late night breakfast – he must have come here after hearing the bad news just like we did.

Once we reached them, Jake spoke up. "Does she know?" he asked.

I looked back and forth between everyone. Does who know? Who is hurt? "Piers and her are on their way now." Steve answered, he was obviously beyond troubled.

"Damn… how did it happen?" Jake pressed.

David shrugged. "We don't know – we just got here."

Carlos cursed under his breath. "Sheva and me were just about to leave when emergency people came busting through the doors with her on the stretcher." he shook his head. "I knew it was her cuz she looks just like Helena."

"What?!" I gasped. "Helena's been-"

"No," Sheva said. "Not Helena… her sister, Deborah."

"Her sister…?" I echoed with wide eyes, I turned to Jake with a look of disbelief.

He frowned and glared at Carlos. "And you sure it was Debbie?"

Carlos and Sheva met eyes and nodded at once. "Positive." they chorused dreadfully. "We followed the personnel and started asking questions the moment we saw her," Sheva added. "They instructed us to stay away but we got aggressive. The moment I heard them say something about blood loss I felt sick…"

"There was so much blood man…" Carlos choked out.

Everyone looked devastated, heads hung low. In that very moment Helena and Piers showed themselves – distress etched all over their faces. I stood beside Jake as they approached.

"I-Is it her?" she grabbed Sheva and started to shake her. "Please tell me this is some fucked up joke!" she cried.

I gently stopped her from shaking Sheva – I didn't know too much about pregnant girls [if she was actually pregnant] but she didn't need that treatment. "H-Helena," I whimpered helplessly. "Please…"

She glared at me and I flinched. "Did you see her? Did any of you fucking see my sister go in there?!"

Jake grabbed her by the shoulders and ushered her away. "Come on, let's go see…" he turned back to me. "I'll be back, don't wonder off."

I nodded understanding him. I saw Piers was talking to a doctor while all of this was going on – his expression didn't look good at all. A familiar feeling of dread came to me as I watched Jake and Helena walk over.

Sheva and I both gasped when Piers pulled Helena into a hug and she slowly began to sink to the floor, screaming and crying. Jake lowered his head and returned to us with a dark cloud looming over him. My hands covered my mouth when he looked at all of us.

"It's her, ain't it?" Steve asked, his voice cracked as he spoke.

Jake nodded. "Yeah…"

Utter silence came to the group – the only sounds heard came from Helena some feet away crying and screaming her sister's name as Piers tried to calm her.

"Is she… dead?" Sheva asked.

Jake sighed. "The doctor says she was stabbed multiple times and had some internal bleeding but she could recover – they'll offer more information by the morning." everyone sighed in relief, I came over and wrapped my arms around Jake's middle – he put an arm around me in return. "The doctor said she's in stable condition right now, but she also suffered some serious trauma to her head…"

"Gods… someone beat the hell out of her." Sheva whispered sadly. "Could it have been Peter, her ex?"

Jake shrugged. "Might have been – this wouldn't be the first time. There's no tellin' though, but if he did he's done for. I'll take him out this time – I swear it."

"Let's not jump to conclusions." Steve intercepted. "We'll wait for Deborah to wake up and say something. I wonder where this all happened – at the house? Nah, Piers and Helena were there… so where then and how did the ambulance show up for her?"

"Maybe a witness saw what happened?" said Carlos. "We could ask around."

"Ask who though? We got no idea where or when it happened." David said crossing his arms over his chest.

A thought came to me – it was really time to put this theory of my healing abilities to the test. "Jake…" I whispered. "What if I…?"

He shook his head. "There's no way we could get in the room." he responded quietly. "But if we could then you could save her."

I glanced over at Helena and Piers, my heart ached just seeing them so full of despair. Helena always seemed so strong and controlled, seeing her crumbling and powerless hurt more than imaginable.

"It's worth a try." I said softly. "If it would help her-"

"The fuck?!" Jake roared suddenly.

I whirled around to see what had him so angry. I was almost floored. I recognized that goatee, steely gaze and wrinkled face instantly and it sent fear throughout my body.

Mr. Simmons?!

"J-Jake, why's he here-"

Mr. Simmons approached us, at his bidding were three men in black suits – government agents? Jake was growling behind me and I held him back as best as I could. I looked over and saw Helena – I hadn't noticed how heated she'd gotten. She was fighting fiercely against Piers to go after Mr. Simmons.

"You old bastard!" she barked viciously. "How dare you show your fucking face around me!"

"Helena – no, you can't!" Piers protested, holding her – it was obvious he was trying his best not to get rough with her because he kept grabbing her around her waist and hugging her.

Mr. Simmons frowned darkly at her and I took in some air seeing it. That was one evil look… "Quiet Helena – you're disturbing everyone here."

"Fuckin' –" I twirled around instantly to hold Jake, he was just as enraged as Helena. But why – what on earth is going on?!

"Jake, stop it!" I pleaded.

Mr. Simmons looked over and my blood ran cold when his eyes locked on me. "Ah, if it isn't the Kitten?"

Oh shit… I cried out as Jake tried to lunge at the man only to be stopped immediately by David and Carlos. I saw them only for a moment before my view was blocked by my heated boyfriend's chest.

"Jake, calm down please." I heard Sheva beg from beside me but Jake's chest was crushed against my face and all I could see was his shirt.

"Get back Sheva, your pregnant." Jake growled.

"H-How did you know-" Heh, so she really is pregnant…

"Simmons, why are you here?" Steve asked from somewhere… "What's with the suits? You here to raise hell – never mind, you do that either way."

"I'm here because I heard one of my daughters was harmed."

Daughter?! Mr. Simmons is Helena's father?!

"We're not your goddamn daughters you sick fucker!" Helena spat. "You're scum of the earth!"

I pulled my head from Jake's chest to glance at Mr. Simmons again. He chuckled and shook his head. "So temperamental… Typical of you Helena, Deborah's always been the better child."

"You bastard!" she struggled against Piers once more but this time, he pinned her to the floor on her back with her wrists gathered in one of his hands and he had his other arm wrapped around both of her legs. He was a hell lot stronger than I imagined. "Let go of me!"

Piers frowned. "Your sister is in there wounded – the last thing she needs is to have her sister locked away for assaulting someone when she needs her most!" he shouted, his words must have gotten to her because she seemed to be calming slowly but surely.

Mr. Simmons scoffed. "At least someone has common sense." Jake almost said something but I quieted him with my finger – it was Piers' time to defend his woman.

Piers shot him a dark look. "I don't know who you are and frankly I don't give a damn – but if you call yourself a father to these women then there's a certain degree of paternal concern I expect to see from you." he stated. "How about instead of taunting Helena – you ask how Deborah is doing and gather some information on your daughter's condition like a real father should?!"

The hospital was quiet, all the other staff and patients were watching this unfold like a TV show.

"Who even told that guy about Deborah?" Sheva whispered. "Carlos and I called Jake, David, Steve and Helena…"

"Weird… That's super fishy." I heard Steve say from God knows where. I could see only towards Simmons, Helena and Piers…

"He's behind you…" Jake whispered to me. I thanked him for the confirmation.

Mr. Simmons looked calm but I could tell he was angered by his fist balling up. "There's no need, I already know of her condition. The hospital called and told me everything." An agent behind him answered his cell phone and whispered some words before handing the phone to Mr. Simmons. I felt sickened by the grin that crept slowly onto his wrinkled face.

"He acts like this is a joke or something." David stated with a slight growl. "Show some fucking concern for your kid, motherfucker."

"Simmons doesn't give a shit about anything but himself. Lowdown dirt-bag creep." said Jake.

Mr. Simmons looked over at Jake and me again, a disgusting smile on his face. "Jake, your father wants you and Miss Birkin to return home immediately."

"What?" we chorused - completely confused. "Nice try ass-wipe, but my dad's outta town." Jake added with a smirk.

Mr. Simmons raised a brow. "Oh? You act as if I cannot receive phone calls from Albert – we're good friends, remember?"

One of the agents behind him approached us with a cell phone in hand. It was a touch screen and I recognized the number dialed on it instantly. It was Mr. Wesker's number and it said it was on the second minute and counting. Jake and me glanced at each other before he took the phone and put it to his ear.

"Dad?" Jake's face became shocked instantly. "What the hell? Why?!" Jake was silent for minute at least, I could hear Mr. Wesker's voice on the other line but I couldn't make out the words – finally a beep was heard, the call must have ended.

Jake growled out a sigh and I gasped when he crushed the phone in his hand. The bits fell to the floor as he swiftly turned and made for the exit. "Sherry, come on we have to go."

"W-What? Why?" I asked disbelievingly.

"Just listen to me!" he shouted and I flinched under his tone.

What on earth is going on? I glanced back and forth at everyone as I followed behind Jake meekly.

"Piers – take care of Helena, call me if anything happens. Helena… let me know if they find the piece of shit that did this."

Helena held onto Piers full of misery and desperate for comfort. "I think I know who did it…" everyone waited for her to finish. "The only person who would do this is Peter."

I heard Sheva gasp before Jake grabbed my hand and started to tug me away. "Come on, baby girl – I gotta get you outta here." he said quietly.

We made it to the car and once we were inside I started to ask him what was going on but he silenced me. "Dad doesn't want you anywhere near Simmons." I wondered why but he beat me to the punch. "I don't know why, but he says it's quite serious. He says for us to head home and he'll be here tomorrow evening."

"Jake… I'm scared. What is going on?" I started shaking. "First Sheva passes out and we're almost killed and now Mr. Simmons shows up and Helena's sister is nearly killed too and your father doesn't want me near him, I –"

Jake reached over and put his arm around me, stopping my babbling. "Shh, you're always safe with me baby girl. I messed up earlier by leaving you alone but I swear it won't happen again. I'm gonna get you home and take good care of you."

"But what about Helena?" I asked, feeling a mix of exhaustion and fear.

"Loverboy won't let nothing happen to her – trust me." he started up the car and reached over to caress my cheek with his thumb. "I hate seeing her like that too – but I can't risk your safety. The good news is that she could recover – Debbie's always been a fighter – this ain't the first time Peter got hold of her and she lived."

"But Jake…"

"Shh… you're tired, I can tell. Listen, if Babe needs us she or the Loverboy will call. In the meantime, let me get you home. I'll run you a nice hot bath water and give you a massage – since our date night turned into a date from hell... How does that sound?"

I blushed. "That sounds pretty good..." I felt guilty for not being able to stay but what could I do? I felt beyond fatigued, a nice bath and massage sounded like heaven - it couldn't hurt to indulge, especially since Helena's sister was stabilized, there was a chance she would come out fine.

As we made our leave from the hospital, I felt like a storm was brewing. Something was fatally wrong – and my role in this was probably larger than I imagined…

A/N: I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LATE UPDATE! *twiddles fingers* I got super busy… To make up for it I hope you like this super long chapter. The plot is really unfolding now because there's so much going on it's ridiculous.

So yeah, Sherry can still regenerate [her being locked away most of her life made safe from injuries and stuff so that's why she never noticed – it's also why she didn't realize her lack of illness throughout life.], the Wesker's are superhumans too, Sheva's pregnant, Simmons is somehow deeply involved with Helena and her sister, Deborah's been harmed by her boyfriend…? Maybe? The future will reveal a LOT.

Everything that was revealed in this chapter plays a key role in the future. Especially the Spencer city – yes, it's based on a certain old guy who's spooky tale will emerge again soon.

Sorry for lack of romance this chapter. And again, sorry about the damn wait. It won't happen again. :D

Please review, they are well appreciated! If you have any questions or concerns or notice any typos and such, be sure to let me okayz? I was anxious to post this cuz I'm so late with the update.

Thanks for all the support so far. I'll be sure to update again in the next few days – in the meantime, R&R and I'll see you soon!

-Vio