Chapter 14:
It Takes Time
I wasn't sure how he'd done it, but Mr. Wesker and Steve's father were able to get everyone off without charges. Steve's father had shown up a little after Mr. Wesker did and bailed out Carlos and David while Mr. Wesker did the same for Helena and Piers. Sheva was going to be staying at Carlos' place [she was carrying his child] so Steve's father volunteered to take them home.
Helena and Piers returned to his apartment while Jake, Mar and I made our way home with Mr. Wesker in his truck.
On the way home, Mr. Wesker only said spoke to Jake but only about him picking up his car from the hospital parking lot. He drove there and Jake got out of the truck to go to his car. Mar wanted to go with him but Mr. Wesker demanded that he and I stay with him, no if's, and's, or but's.
I said nothing the entire ride, I just looked out the window from my seat in the back beside Mar. I was too ashamed and scared that Mr. Wesker would go into a fit of rage on me if I said a word.
I just didn't know what to do. I was certain I would be fired but I hoped differently. The thought of being jobless brought back memories of my former life, struggling to pay bills and make amends with no sign of hope for my future. It just killed me inside.
I felt my cell phone vibrate in my pocket and I discreetly pulled it out. Noticing it was a text from Jake, I viewed the message.
I promise you I'm not gonna let him fire you. It was my decision to involve you and Marlowe so he's got no reason to be angry at you. I'll take the fall for this.
Despite his words, I felt I needed to take responsibility too. I just couldn't sit back and let Jake take all the heat for this. I chose to get involved without thinking of the consequences that would come if Mar had gotten hurt and I needed to be honest with Mr. Wesker and accept the punishment I would be dealt.
I glanced over to Mar, he was already staring at me. He looked concerned and I sent him a small smile. It was all I could muster at the time. He lifted his hands and did a sort of gesture with them, he was doing sign language.
He was using the same gestures I'd gone over with him a few days ago. He was telling me he loved me. I smiled with tears swelling in my eyes, returning the gesture and adding a 'thank you' to him.
I couldn't bear the idea of losing my job - losing him. It just broke my heart.
Rebecca met us at the door when we arrived and took Mar upstairs with her. Mr. Wesker had Jake and I join him in his study.
I took a seat in the same spot of his study that I sat in on the day I was given the job, Jake sat beside me. I sat up straight but I was shivering, fiddling with my fingers. Jake was leaning back on the couch, left elbow propped up on the arm of the seat and his right hand rested on his lap. He looked completely unconcerned, but I felt like a bundle of nerves.
His father had his back to us as he stared to the skies above through the sunroof. The skies were dark and rain was pouring down outside.
"You are fortunate that no one was severely harmed, my son." he said finally without sparing us a glance. "Otherwise you and your friends would have been incarcerated for the remainder of the evening to face possible conviction for your misconduct."
"Tch." Jake scoffed, looking away. "Security shouldn't have interfered."
"Because our abilities far exceed the common folk is no justification for bullying them. Our blood is to be used for other means, you are aware of this." I watched as he placed his dark shades onto his desk without turning to us. "Jake Muller-Wesker, you are heir to a proud league of men and I hold no ambiguity as to your competence to lead in the future. However..."
"When you decide to become a man and let go of these immature and reckless exploitations... is what I await eagerly to see."
Once he turned to face his son, I bit my lip to hold back a gasp as I observed those eyes of his. They were orange and red, seeming to glow in the dark of the room - they were like the eyes of a snake or a frog, I wasn't close enough to distinguish. Now I realized that Jake's eyes were just like his fathers - they didn't look like fire, they carried the countenance of a reptile.
What kind of genes do they have?
"Someone in this fucked up gene pool of ours has gotta give a damn about the people in their life," Jake snarled and his eyes flashed like his father's. "So, go on as long as you want about how immature I behave - I'll do whatever I damn well please."
"Oh? Please enlighten me on just how concerned you were for your loved ones. I have yet to comprehend how endangering your brother and the Nanny is evidence of a man seeking to do right by them." Mr. Wesker retorted calmly but his words seethed with venom. "You risked your brother being harmed while you besieged a hospital as well as put Miss Birkin right in the line of fire when I specifically instructed you to keep her away from Derek."
Jake quieted himself, I fought the urge to comfort him out of fear of his father's reaction. I couldn't stand this any longer, Jake wasn't to blame for everything - I needed to speak up.
"Mr. Wesker please, I begged Jake to let me help him and his friends - he isn't the only one at fault here!" I said while trembling.
"Sherry -"
"Jake, let me finish! Mar and I were supposed to stay out of the way but I -"
"Silence, Miss Birkin." I zipped my yapper instantly when his hard eyes locked onto me. "I am speaking with my son, it is in your best interest to refrain from drawling attention to yourself at this time as I will deal with you very soon."
I faced my lap and choked back my tears.
"She's not to blame, dad." said Jake. "Look, I never meant to put either of them in danger. We had everything under control but we had to act fast if we wanted to stop Simmons from killing Helena's sister." he covered his eyes with hand. "I knew the two of them would be fine as long as they were together."
"Elaborate." his father commanded, taking a seat in his chair.
"You and I both know that Mar is capable of protecting Sherry if he needs to."
He... He is?
I recalled Mar hitting Simmons with the stun rod and while it shocked me then, it nearly made me fall out of my chair as it finally hit me. I was saved by a child. A three year old child.
"That said, I didn't intend for all of this to happen this way..." Jake finished with a long sigh.
"Did you consider the possibility that he may not have been able to protect Miss Birkin?" Mr. Wesker pressed. "What if he had gotten harmed during your scuffle with authorities? Are you implying that you are comfortable with putting Miss Birkin's safety in the hands of a child? Is this what you call caring for your loved ones?"
I could tell Jake was fighting hard to stay calm. "Sherry, wouldn't ever let him get hurt." He sneered bitterly. "She's a lot more capable than you think."
"I am very aware of Miss Birkin's ability to heal those she comes in contact with."
My jaw dropped, Jake looked just as surprised as I did. "You are?" we chorused.
He was unfazed by our reaction. "Why wouldn't I be? I am able to see and observe the same details as you and Marlowe. One of the very reasons I hired Miss Birkin in the first place was because of her effect on Marlowe. The moment the child met her, he became fond of her warmth and that scent of lilacs that accompanies her."
I blushed, my eyes darted to my lap. Well at least I know now that I was in fact hired by him because of Mar. It's comforting to know he would do whatever he can to make the child happy.
"That said, just like us, her abilities surely have a limit to them and it is important that she is kept away from danger in the event that her powers are constricted at any given time." he nodded to me and I fidgeted unsure of what he wanted me to do or say.
He returned his attention to Jake, I felt relieved that he took those reptilian eyes off of me; they unnerved me to no end. "By putting her in that situation you nearly exposed Derek to the gift she's endowed with. If he learns of her powers, there could be repercussions."
Jake lowered his head which caused my stomach to ache. Please don't blame yourself Jake - I pressured you to let me help...
"You say you are trying to care for the ones special to you - you should endeavor to make this a priority over everything else. My son, I am sorry for your friend's loss but let this be a lesson to you. So long as the corrupt are present in this world, you must make sacrifices to protect the ones you love - even if it means forsaking your own humanity to keep them happy..."
Forsaking your humanity...? I faced my lap once more as I thought. Could Mr. Wesker be hinting that his reasoning behind his detachment is to protect his loved ones?
Though Jake upheld a neutral countenance, he had nodded his head to Mr. Wesker as he spoke, as if he were taking his father's words into consideration and this scared me. What if Jake decided to be like his father - distant and cold just to protect everyone?
"All our efforts were in vain." he spoke hoarsely. "We couldn't even stop that asshole after all - that's what bothers me the most."
Mr. Wesker slid his glasses back onto his face. "Derek is very cunning and clever when it comes to getting what he wants - which is why Miss Birkin is to be kept away from him. Should he ever learn of her powers he would surely try and utilize them, his kind is certainly not above seeking immortality."
A silence came to the room. I felt cold, it was uncomfortable to know that Simmons would try and use me for something as ridiculous as immortality but then again, I did see him try to kill Deborah himself when she was recovering - someone like that is selfish and I could see why Mr. Wesker wouldn't put the search for infinite life past him.
The man had simply lost his mind when Deborah woke up. I'd never seen anyone so enraged! She was his daughter and he wanted her to die so badly he knocked the doctor out and almost surely would have injured me had Mar not interfered.
"Dad, you can't fire Sherry. She's special to Marlowe..." Jake said softly with his eyes firmly locked on his father.
"And you." my stomach did a somersault when he announced this so casually. I noticed Jake was taken aback too. "Do you take me for a fool, my son? I am not blind to your care for this girl. Though I am not sure if it is simple concern or perhaps you have deeper feelings for her."
Jake frowned, his eyes darkened. His father continued to speak. "Surely you understand that she is the hired help, for you to entertain ideas of becoming closer to her than anything on a professional level is generally not encouraged."
And now he's killing me even more. I felt tears stinging in my eyes. I had no nerve to look at Jake. I knew it, I knew we were supposed to stay professional with each other... Now our feelings are involved and things are going to get ugly.
"Miss Birkin," I nodded timidly to him. "You cannot be tagging along with my son and his friends. I am pleased that the two of you are well acquainted now as your responsibility is to maintain this household, however you must take your job seriously - I implore you to practice forbearance. The time will come when you will gain enough standing and until that moment presents itself, take comfort in where you stand because it is not a fruitless position."
In other words, I can't hang out with Jake and everyone as much as before. I have to be more tact and loyal to my responsibilities. Forbearance... does he mean I have to practice more self-control? It makes sense considering I have been acting out more than I should lately.
Even though this was the first time he had caught me in a dangerous predicament, it may not have been too far of a stretch to assume Mr. Wesker was able to identify my problem behavior when it reared its ugly face.
But what does he mean by my standing?
"Do not worry, Miss Birkin. I have no intentions of relieving you of your appointment."
I released a sigh of relief. "Th-Thank you so much, sir..." I still felt guilty for my actions but I was being given a second chance and I swore to myself I would not disappoint him anymore.
"But I expect that you never display such irresponsibility ever again." I nodded firmly to him. "Good, I also have a few new added conditions for you to follow - and this applies to you as well, my son."
New conditions?
"What?" Jake asked blankly.
"I'll explain them to you both, but first I need to know that you two understand me completely. You both are in dire need of developing more patience. You're both too eager for your individual causes and it is doing nothing but causing me an inconvenience."
"Miss Birkin, I have observed you for some time now and have come to see you as a very determined girl with a driving need to prove yourself despite your gentle countenance. There's nothing wrong with this, however you seem to have this self-sacrificing nature that makes you careless with your own person. You'd be wise to cease your foolishness. Only a fool would value their life so little that they'd sacrifice themselves without thinking of who will be affected by their death."
"Yes sir." I understood that. I needed to stop sinking back into my autonomous, self-centered behaviors.
"My son, as I've explained, restraint is the best option as of now. I understand you want to keep everyone you care for safe. Remaining calm and observing is your best course of action. You should endeavor to reevaluate your need for disruption and excitement, replace it with something else. I am concerned for you - for a while you were quite mellow and balanced, suddenly you've regressed."
"It's nothing, I'm just agitated I guess." Jake replied with a dismissive wave.
Mr. Wesker's wrong about Jake... he didn't digress intentionally. It's because of me that he's like this...
I was the reason why Jake was acting out again.
He'd become much more controlled when I first spoke to him but it was because of me that he street raced again. It was my fault that he and the rest upheld the hospital so I could feel accomplished and save Deborah. He was just trying to keep me happy and it was backfiring.
My recklessness was getting blamed on Jake.
I need to stop causing such a ruckus over things. Maybe practicing forbearance really can bring some calm to me. It's important that I do whatever I can to keep this household together and keep Mar away from danger.
I also need to be more conscious of Jake's affections for me. He's willing to do anything for me and I'm getting him in trouble.
For some reason I couldn't find a balance between helping and getting myself into trouble. First I was endangering myself, now I was dragging others into it with my self-righteous need to prove myself. I was being extra.
It stops here. From this point on I'll start being more considerate and stop trying to play hero at the expense of the ones I care for. I have to be more aware of everyone else involved.
"So what new conditions did you wanna talk about, old man?" Jake asked.
"The first is that the two of you agree to keep Marlowe away from peril at all costs from now on." I nodded and kept my head down. "The second is that both of you must understand that your priority above all else is to protect the people in this home."
"The last is more of a proposal, think of it as a means of better protection."
"Hmm?" this came from Jake. My eyes wondered up to my mysterious boss.
Mr. Wesker placed both his elbows on the desk and interlaced his fingers before him. "You two are friends, yes?"
We're definitely more than that... I looked shyly to Jake and he nodded once to me. "Um... yes?" I said nervously. What exactly did he have planned?
"Hm, good - in order for this to work you two will have to maintain appearances. Excella's been a brilliant help with this scheme and her efforts up until now have made this plausible."
"What are you talking about?" Jake pressed with narrow eyes.
"Jake, would you be against the proposition of giving Miss Birkin a more significant standing in the home? It would help her against Derek, making it more difficult for her to become an object for his disgusting fantasies."
I glanced back and forth between the two men of Wesker. "That would be more than just great." Jake drawled in a lighter tone. "What's your plan?"
His father smirked and I was really anxious for an answer now. "Excellent, should this notion work Miss Birkin will be able to attend conferences with the family on a much greater scale as well as improve her relations with others of higher status similar to how you have in the past, Jake."
Jake returned the smug grin. "Ah, I see what you're getting at. If she climbs the social pillars then Simmons will realize her standing and cease his annoying pursuit of her."
"Exactly." Mr. Wesker confirmed with a nod. "Are you ready to learn of your roles in this?"
I nodded almost excitedly while Jake just shrugged. I was desperate to get Simmons off my back and away from me.
"We will be making our way to Finland next week. I am aware of the late notice but I had the trip advanced because of the events occurring in the city. I will give you until the day before we make our departure to decide if this is something you would be comfortable accepting..."
We waited patiently for his proposal. "Miss Birkin, forgive me for this but this is the only way to help you." I tilted my head curiously and glanced at Jake before turning back. Forgive you for what? "My son, the only way Miss Birkin will gain better standing is if you are to proclaim her as your consort."
My jaw dropped.
Jake eyes had widened, physically he stiffened. "Consort?"
Mr. Wesker nodded. "Yes, if Miss Birkin is called your consort it would help her with status. She would be viewed as belonging to you. With the two of you being unmarried, this just leads to the potential of marriage in the future - should you be willing to go that far is your decision. For the current time, this would simply be a facade to keep Derek at bay."
I was red like a cherry. "So, using terms from our generation, we would be calling each other boyfriend and girlfriend." Jake confirmed.
"You may refer to one another with whatever term you please."
Jake tapped his chin. "Let's see... an escort is a professional whore looking for a sugar daddy..." I felt faint at such an accusation but he shook his head. "Nah, Sherry's older than me, she's not money hungry nor would she sleep with me for money."
I twitched... that was just too kinky for my fragile state of mind.
"Consort is too old-fashioned - we'll just stick to the girlfriend/boyfriend thing. What do ya say, Sherry?"
A blush came to my cheeks. Before I could reply, Mr. Wesker stood and flicked on the lamp near the edge of his desk. "Miss Birkin, in the event you are passionate about keeping yourself as a mere professional housekeeper and Nanny, I will oblige that for you. But should you accept this proposal, not only will I continue to pay you for your work and responsibilities but you will also be given more freewill and exposure to others - therefore increasing your security and safety. Remember, the possibility of marriage would be further down the line and would entirely be up to you and Jake."
He pulled a book from the bookshelf behind him and opened it, skimming through it. "You have a week to reach your decision but please take your time and don't give me an answer until then. Jake, you may speak with her about this to provide her some comfort with her decision but you should allow her some time to think it over herself. In the meantime, you should be making some contacts and arrangements for the trip over the week and that should keep you busy as well as out of trouble."
Well, Jake and I were already 'boyfriend and girlfriend' so this wasn't too big of a deal - at least I told myself that. It was quite surreal to think we were just given approval for a relationship. However, the idea of being married especially after Jake and me had only been together for a little over two weeks was so much to take in...
Actually we would still be boyfriend and girlfriend but with time we could marry... but that's entirely up to us to decide in the future. Everything's just so fast... I'm not sure I'm following any of this...
"Um sir, not that I have a problem with this or anything but didn't you just say it's generally not encouraged for professional reasons?" I asked meekly.
"I've never been one to care for human customs, in fact I break tradition quite often." he said matter-of-factly. "I am simply trying to be sympathetic to your feelings since you have been raised in said customs, correct? It would be unethical for me to force you into a relationship with my son at such a tender age. I am not sure if you are willing to place your future in Jake's hands if you don't find him to suit your tastes or deem him compatible."
"In the same token, I am unsure as to if you're involved with anyone currently..."
I shook my head. "N-No sir... I'm single." I looked at Jake and he sent me a short nod.
"I see, well then Miss Birkin, you are to attend to Marlowe and the home, I have already made contact with his school pertaining to his coming long-term absence so he will be home the remainder of this week. Remember to teach him accordingly. Jake, I have already given you instructions I expect you to follow."
He closed the book and turned to us. "You are dismissed."
When we left the room, not a word was sounded between us. I couldn't think of anything to say. There was so much going on now that I just wanted to leave it alone for the rest of the evening. I thought about calling Leon and Claire and inviting them over but I'd had a rough day and it was getting late, 19:19 [7:19 pm] from what my watch told me.
I couldn't leave the house so it was my best bet to invite them over for a while tomorrow. As for the rest of the evening, I really needed some time to myself.
I glanced at Jake as I neared my room. He was facing the floor and looked perplexed. I turned into the doorway of my bedroom and felt a pang in my stomach when he kept going, straight into the lounge. The door clicked behind him and I stood in my place for a while before I convinced myself to move.
We both needed some space after this day from hell.
I climbed the spiral staircase and called out for Mar. He came racing from Mrs. Stephanie's room and practically jumped into my arms. I gave him a tight squeeze and sat him down onto the floor and I crouched down before him.
"Mar, please forgive me. I've been so unreliable lately and I know it's affected you. I shouldn't have done that. I should have been more careful." I let my tears fall freely and he offered me a sympathetic look. "I promise you I'm going to stop. I'm... I'm sorry. Do you forgive me?"
He placed both of his little hands on my shoulder, staring me dead in the eye. "I know you were just trying to help, Nanny Bear. But I love you and I don't wanna see you or my big brother do that ever again. I thought I was gonna lose you..." he lowered his head and I felt sickened by myself. "I believe you, Nanny Bear. Just promise me we'll be together always and we won't ever get in something that scary ever again."
I sniffed and nodded passionately as I wiped at my tears. I sniffed again before speaking: "I swear it, sweetie. I swear." he held out his arms and I hugged him lovingly. "Thanks for being by side, Mar. You have no idea how much you mean to me."
"Thanks for being my Nanny." he replied cutely and I let a laugh escape me before I kissed his hair.
"Good to see you'll be sticking around much longer, Sherry."
My eyes widened as I took in the tall figure standing in front of Mrs. Stephanie's bedroom. Waist-length kinky auburn hair, a long peach-tinted robe of silk material - I could make out a matching dress under it, and a pale pretty face...
"Oh my God..." I gasped as I rose to my feet, covering my mouth with my hands. "M-Mrs. S-Stephanie...!"
I couldn't believe it. This was the first time I'd seen her out of her bed! She was very tall, at the least 176cm [about 5"9] and had some slender curves. She looked quite healthy and judging from the pretty smile on her face I was going to assume she felt as good as she looked.
"Shocking, I know and I didn't mean to startle you dear but since the trip is coming up so fast I wanted to stretch and move around a bit so I wouldn't be too stiff once we get there." she held out her arms and I raced over to hug her.
"H-How...?" I asked breathlessly.
"How am I moving? Well, I'm not decrepit if that's what you were thinking - for goodness sake I'm 38 years old!" she laughed warmly.
"N-No ma'am I wasn't -"
"Easy, Sherry, I'm teasing." she sang softly. Mar came over and beamed up at her, she picked him up slowly and took a few uneven breaths. I gave her a concerned look but she held up her hand. "He's just heavier than I remember." I giggled and agreed with her. "For the past week whenever I got a chance, I started making baby steps beyond just my room and the bathroom. I started walking up and down the hallway here and with Rebecca's help I made a few trips up and down the stairs. It feels good to move around after so much bed rest..."
I was glowing with excitement. With her feeling better so much could change - in a good way. We could cook together, chat more and we could both keep Marlowe happy. I was sure Jake would love to see her moving around too.
"Would... would you like to come downstairs?" I asked her meekly. She handed Mar over to me and nodded slowly. I felt like pumping my fist into the air.
"I'd like to surprise Jake." she said as we walked side by side. I made sure to keep a steady pace behind her in case she stumbled and I needed to help her. As we reached the stairs I lowered Mar to the floor and he started down ahead of us. I held my hand out to her and she accepted it graciously. "Where is Jake, by the way?"
I felt a knot form in my stomach. "H-He's um... in the basement I believe, but he might just be in the lounge. It's been quite a day, ma'am..." I said softly after hesitating until we reached the bottom step.
"Marlowe's told me everything." I looked at her with grief written on my face. "I understand you two were pretty much thrown into a rain of chaos as planned by Jake and his friends... I'm sorry to learn that, Sherry."
"I'm afraid there's more to the story than that, ma'am." was my detached reply.
"I see, just be sure that you are more cautious next time. All of you." she stated firmly and lead the way to the kitchen.
"Yes, ma'am." I said quietly and followed behind her.
Mar was already going through the refrigerator when we arrived and I helped him into his high chair after he retrieved his favorite beverage - grape juice. I poured some into his sippy cup and begun to search for a small meal to fix. It was so late and I hadn't planned anything. I was sure Mar was starving...
Mrs. Stephanie wondered over to the back windows and peered out at the dark outside and the rain falling from the skies. "It's so ugly out today..." she said and made a slow stride towards the lounge doors.
"Want me to go get Jake, mom?" Mar asked. She smiled at him and shook her head. "You sure? I mean, I wouldn't mind but ... he's upset."
I swallowed hard as I pulled out a few frozen chicken breasts.
"I... I know he is, Marlowe." she replied softly. "I guess my little surprise will have to wait until another day..."
Four days later...
I came down the spiral staircase hoping to retrieve a couple beverages for Marlowe and myself. We were almost done with the daily instruction, just an hour to go and I could finally let him play for a bit while I cleaned the bathrooms... every single one of them.
I had to make sure that they were cleaned before Claire and Leon showed up. Mr. Wesker allowed me to have them over so long as all of my regimes were completed once they arrived.
Jogging into the kitchen, I flung open the fridge and searched around for a few water bottles and after I found them I scribbled a little note onto the nearby notepad that I had to make a trip to the grocery store and the meat deli later. We needed more bottled water, milk, fruits, veggies and sandwich meats - some bacon and Italian sausage would be delightful too.
When I shut the fridge door I almost jumped out of my skin once I saw Jake standing there. I hadn't seen him the last few days and while I was worried Mrs. Stephanie had assured me it was typical of Jake to disappear when he was troubled.
He looked fine, no visible signs of stress but his expression wasn't very readable. I brushed a piece of hair behind my ear and offered a small shy smile. "H-Hi..."
"Hey..." his voice was hoarse. "How ya feeling?"
I thought for a moment and then nodded a bit. "I'm... I'm okay. What about you?"
He shrugged. "Gettin' there."
Silence.
"How's the little guy?" he asked.
I fiddled with the top to the water bottle I held. "Yeah, he's - he's managing. He hasn't spoken anything about what happened since that day and he seems to still maintain that smile... but he's worried about you, Jake."
He nodded, lowering his head. "I'll talk to him, I owe him that." he eyed me again and sighed. "I'm sorry, Sherry."
"I'm sorry too." I said gently. I reached out for his hand and he laced fingers with me at our sides. "We both messed up this time, let's make sure it never happens again."
"Agreed." he breathed. "Look, I need to speak to Mar… he deserves to know that I do care about him – I'm just… I'm not good with thinking outside myself sometimes, I gotta fix that."
"You're not the only one." I said. "I've been selfish lately. I realize now that I can't keep putting myself in such dangerous positions, I need to make some changes to myself as well."
"I heard that your heroes are coming over later. Mind if I take Marlowe off your hands while you talk to them?"
I shook my head. "Not at all." he gave my hand a squeeze and I smiled. "Um, I have to go finish his learning session right now -"
"Oh - right, didn't mean to hold you up -"
"No, no, it's alright." I couldn't help but stare into his cerulean eyes and just stay there. I hadn't seen him in a few days and it was like my heart was pulling me to him. I missed him - sure it was silly to miss someone after four days but I truly did.
Adhering to Mr. Wesker's advice, I was thinking of the proposal daily but I didn't want to dwell too much. I wanted to take my time with it.
In such a short time, I realized that Jake wasn't just my boyfriend - he was my best friend.
I missed beating him up on Super Smash Bros Brawl, I would own his evil Snake with my cute Kirby - or when he would cheat and play with Ike when I was Pit. I missed him running up and giving me a wedgie whenever I bent over to dust something. I missed waking up and him picking on me because he could eat pancakes and I couldn't because I was on a diet.
Even though I hadn't seen him in four days, I still kept to the strict diet he put me on. I even took an early morning jog through the house back and forth from the front door to the back and even up and down the stairs.
It wasn't as fun without him but I still did it to keep consistent...
I missed him because he was so much to me. My bully, my buddy, my boyfriend, my everything.
"I um, better go..." I said breathlessly, blushing like mad. I needed to get away to tend to Mar.
"Yeah..." he said. "We'll... talk later."
His hand slipped slowly from mine and our eyes remained locked to one another. I wrapped my fingers around the other water bottle, clutching it in my hand and made a move to leave when I was whirled around, pressed against the sink and flushed against Jake's hard body.
I was speechless and his warm lips met mine. His hands encased my face as he pecked my lips with his and then deepened the kiss. I sighed against his lips and wrapped my arms around his middle.
"Thanks for being my Supergirl." he whispered against my lips. He kissed me again. I started to cry and he tenderly wiped them away. "Shh..." he pulled away and smirked at me. "That's my girl."
I sniffed and smiled at him. I was just so happy that we were still okay.
I sat in the front room, waiting patiently for the doorbell to ring. The snacks I'd lain out on the coffee table consisted of a bowl of mixed vegetables and fruits: broccoli, carrots, apple slices, and grapes. I couldn't resist the temptation for sweets so I played it safe and stuck with healthy snacks - for my own sake. I also had three glasses full of water present for them with a pitcher of ice cold water in the center.
When the doorbell rang, I hopped up from the couch and skipped to the door. I opened it and wrapped my arms around Leon first and then Claire [based on the order they entered the house of course]. I welcomed them inside and beckoned them towards the couches.
"Wow," Leon started when he sat down beside me. "This place looks much different without the spooky people running around." Claire and I laughed. "It's a nice place though, very classy and clean."
"Thanks, I do my best." I joked and they tittered at me. "Thanks for coming you two, especially under such short notice."
"It's no problem, Sher." Claire replied kindly, she had taken a seat across from us. "Tell us what's going on."
I took in some air. "First I'd like to know what's going on with you two. How is everything?"
"Fine." they said quickly in union.
They really want me to spill the beans...
I fidgeted under their gaze and let out a nervous chuckle. "Okay," I began after a long sigh. "Um, I'll be relocating with the family in the next few days."
"Aww, where to?" asked Claire with a cute pout.
"Finland." I answered.
They were quiet for a minute until Leon spoke up with a cough, "Ahem, well I hope you're prepared to dress warm and bundle up like never before because that place is cold." Leon said with a straight face. I could tell he was humored when a small smirk crept onto his face. "I'm talking three to four layers every single day."
"A camera is a good investment too!" Claire chimed cheerfully. "There's so many pretty sights to see and -"
"You guys aren't gonna miss me?" I asked dumbfounded.
Claire laughed at me. "Of course, Sher but remember what I told you before. I'm not gonna hold you back from anything - going to Finland is wonderful! They have ice-skating, real life reindeer, skiing... - they do have skiing right, Leon?"
Leon rolled his eyes. "I don't know, Claire. I don't like the cold so I wouldn't dare step foot there. I've just heard some stories."
Claire glared at him. "What is with men and their lack of diligence?"
"What's with women and their attitudes?" Leon retorted.
I giggled. Some things never change, for goodness sake they bicker like siblings. "I'm gonna miss you two..." I said sadly.
Leon wrapped his arm around my shoulder. "Hey now, we can talk anytime you want to. They have cell coverage there... I think."
I pouted. "Leon!"
"Relax, I'm just teasing!" he said with a grin. "Of course we're going to miss you. But you should be excited about going! Some new scenery could do well for you!"
I nodded quietly, a low sigh escaped me as I begun to fiddle with my fingers on my lap. "Um... I need to talk to you guys... about what's been going on lately."
Claire took a sip of water. "Is this about Helena's sister?" she asked calmly. I gave her a wide eyed look and she shook her head. "Steve told me about it. He also told me about how you all held up a hospital trying to save her." I shrank under her stern gaze. "Sherry, you've gotta be more careful - all of you need to be. I don't know Simmons that well but I've seen him at a few meetings with my group TerraSave and he's got scary eyes. I don't trust him and neither should you – in fact, avoiding him whenever he's nearby is your best bet."
Leon spoke up next. "Okay, I have a question about every single statement you just made, Claire. First, isn't Helena the girl who dressed as Hermione on Halloween?" we nodded to him. "What happened to her sister?"
"No one really knows what's going on..." I replied in a mousy tone. "She was badly injured, there was some investigation, something went wrong and next thing we knew we were trying to save her from Simmons and he pulled the plug on her." I choked a bit. "She's... gone now. The hospital informed us."
"Damn, I'm sorry to hear that." Leon said and then his tone changed. "But taking siege to a hospital is insane, Sherry," he fussed. "You could have been arrested or worse you could have gotten hurt!"
"That's... actually what I wanted to talk to you about, but first I have a question Leon." he tilted his head curiously at me, obviously still upset about what he heard about me. "Um, I've heard some things about a string of crimes involving women turning up in odd places badly beaten and I was wondering -"
"You're wondering would I suspect what happened to Helena's sister could be related to it?" he interrupted, he started circling the top of his glass of water with his index finger.
"Well, yes but there was more to it than that." I added.
"I'm going to need more information about what happened to her." he said.
Claire studied us, concern etched on her pretty face. "A string of crimes? I thought you said there were only a few minor incidents, Leon."
"They've increased dramatically over the past few weeks." he said slowly, his eyes closed as his grip tightened on the cup.
"So... you and Ada really are here to solve this right?" I asked, debating should I take his glass from him.
He nodded slowly and I felt fear inside me. "I see Jake told you about that. Originally we were supposed to investigate the disappearance of some of the girls but now the case has taken a devastating turn for the worst. I have to say that you going to another location during this time is a stroke of good luck, Sherry."
"What about Claire?" I asked sending her worried look.
She shook her head and gave me a small smile. "Don't worry about me. Ever since Leon realized he and Ada would be staying here longer for the case, I offered them to stay with me. Besides, Steve has people following me everywhere I go so if anything happened they would jump to my rescue. I didn't understand his motives at first but now I guess I do."
"Does that really make you feel safe?" I pressed in a whisper. I couldn't stomach anything happening to her.
"Ada and I usually walk her wherever she needs to go anyway. If not us, then that Steve guy escorts her. In fact, while we made our way here there were quite a few suspicious men that caught my attention." Leon said a little humored. "I'm trained to recognize these guys so that's how I could tell. Don't worry, Claire's in good hands - you need to make sure you play smart about your safety too. Jake promised me he would look after you, I hope you're not giving him any trouble like you give us."
I felt a bit nauseous. "Jake is passionate about protecting me... but I've been so adamant about proving myself useful and being strong enough to fight my own battles that I've made some bad moves lately - like with the hospital thing." I sighed. "I know I'm being crazy but I'm a bit clueless as to why I keep doing it."
"It's because you've been sheltered and well protected all your life." Claire answered and Leon gave her statement a nod. "You feel scared that if you aren't excelling in life or if you come across as weak then you will be put back into solitude."
"Claire's right," Leon added. "Sherry, you need to realize something - that life of punishment for failure was the old life you had. No one is going to shun you for being human and needing help out here. We all support you and want to keep you safe and happy - trust us, no one is going to put you away ever again and don't attribute the road to self-fulfillment as being a quick and lonely one – it takes time to reach goals and everyone needs help to get there."
"Exactly! Even Leon and I needed little extra pushes to become who we are now." Claire said. "Believe it or not, because of the success I achieved by bringing you into a happier place in your life – I joined TerraSave so I could do the same for others and share your story with them. Leon even became an agent for the government for the very same reasons. We owe it to you that we've reached this far."
"Took us 30 years…" Leon added in a dry tone. I giggled at his dry humor.
Claire agreed with him by groaning softly to herself [which is odd because she's like 28 or 29], and then she continued. "So take your time, Sherry. The world spins day by day and you need to progress that way - not second by second. Remember, the events we endure over our journeys are what make the results more rewarding." Claire reached over and took my hand to give it a comforting squeeze. "You understand sweetheart?"
I nodded, a bright smile came to my face. These are my real parents. They're the ones I know love me no matter what. I need to remember that more often. "Thanks - both of you." I turned to Leon. "I'll be sure to keep your words in mind every day… but now I have a favor to ask..."
"Sure kiddo, what is it?"
"Since you and Ada are working this case, do you think you could speak with Helena? She has a lot of answers and facts about this case that could be of good use for you. Piers too - he also noticed the link."
"Let me get this straight, I'd be investigating the attack Helena's sister suffered, not how she died?"
I nodded. "Her death is a lot more complicated but I don't know - maybe that's linked to it too... Just please help her."
"I will." he said with a smile and I hugged him.
"You be sure to take care of yourself too, Sherry." Claire said. "Oh, um, wasn't there something else you wanted to tell us? Something about the hospital, I think?"
I scrunched up my face in thought then a light bulb went off. "It wasn't about the hospital, it was about me... and it's something very... odd. When I tell you this, you must promise to keep it a secret and please don't laugh at me." I begged meekly.
They shot each other a look before their gaze met me again, they nodded and waited for me to continue.
I took a deep breath and faced my lap. "I... can heal people." it was quiet and I was too nervous to look up. "Not only that but I can... heal myself."
The silence stretched on for a long moment. I was praying they believed me and didn't think I was a freak. They were the two people I thought of as parents which hopefully meant they accepted me no matter what.
"Sherry -"
"Please don't think I'm a freak!" I cried, covering my face with my palms.
"We don't think you're a freak, Sherry." Claire said, I heard her stand up and come over to sit on the couch beside me while Leon remained on my right side. She wrapped her arms around me and I felt her kiss my hair. "We uh... we already knew about your powers."
Wait... what? I looked up and glanced back and forth between the two with my tear soaked eyes. "W-What do you mean you already knew?"
Leon placed a hand on my shoulder. "You're parents told us the day you decided to move in with Claire..."
I gasped. "So... they knew about my abilities and never told me?" I felt numb... "Wha-What else did they say?"
"Some things are better off left unknown." Claire answered with a shake of her head. "Anyway, we realized they weren't joshing around after how significant your presence became in my house. I never got sick and the icing on the cake for me was when Chris was sick as a dog one day and came over so I could look after him. You walked into the room and a moment later his fit of coughs stopped altogether."
Leon smiled and agreed with her. "All those times you came over to help me get over a cold and I was better by the next day, you're a living breathing remedy, Sherry."
I didn't know what to say or what to think at first. I just stared at them. "Why didn't you guys tell me?"
"Because we knew you'd start going on and on about how big of a freak you are." they answered in union.
I blushed, embarrassed. "I... wonder why I am this way, or what else am I able to do..." I said softly, playing with my fingers.
"Unfortunately, you may not want to hear this, Sher but I think if you truly want answers about yourself or if you truly want to move on past this, you're gonna have to confront your parents eventually." said Claire.
"What?!" I shrieked. "Why? They were so terrible to me..."
"That's just it, Sherry." Leon started, rubbing my shoulder. "Who's to say your parents don't hold all the answers to your abilities? For that matter, now that you're older, you may be able to get some answers from them about why they locked you away - there's no possible good reason but you could benefit from it... maybe it had something to do with your powers?"
"Leon's right Sherry, it may suck but I believe all the answers about your past can be answered by them one day. They are the key to you moving forward."
I thought about their words and decided I would consider them some time down the line. I would take my time with it and see if I could handle seeing my parents or even dealing with them - but I would do it when I was ready to. I would take Claire and Leon's advice and take a steady path, the future would provide me with an answer eventually.
The rest of the time I spent with Leon and Claire was absolutely pleasant. We ate the snacks I placed out, exchanged stories and laughed at the pictures and facts Claire brought up about Finland on her cell phone's web browser. I fancied I would use the computer in the music room/art gallery later to plan my packing.
As they readied themselves to leave, I gave them hugs and kisses, promising to call them every day when I arrived in Finland.
I stood in the kitchen, stirring up some warm chili as I waited for Jake and Mar to return from the grocery store and deli. I had to prepare dinner so I wasn't able to go run the few errands and luckily Jake didn't mind [well after I begged him over and over to which he had no choice but to concede]. Mar tagged along with him, most likely so he could beg for sweets and cereal.
The two had called me three times since they went, each time because Jake was a lousy shopper and refused to give Mar any treats. In the end, Mar was winning the war between them because he was a better shopper than Jake - then again, Mar had the list in the first place and wouldn't give it to Jake. Worse, I heard Mar was adding things to it with a crayon.
Cute kid. Very devious.
The doorbell rang and I removed the spoon from the pot of chili to sit it on the counter nearby. I came from the kitchen, removing my hairnet and apron as I walked. I looked through the peephole and my eyes widened as I recognized two familiar brunettes. I opened the door and greeted Piers and Helena, allowing them entry.
"Hey, you two!" I said cheerfully. "Come in, I was just finishing up dinner. Can I get you anything?"
"Actually I'm not staying," Piers said. "I have some business to deal with and I was just hoping you guys didn't mind Helena staying here for a while." he wrapped his arm around her.
"No, it's not a problem." I said. "Jake's not here right now but I'm sure he won't mind." I observed that Helena didn't hold her usual blank faced countenance. She was wearing her long chocolate tresses in a ponytail and looked quite tired with the small dark circles forming under her eyes.
"Great, thanks Sher." he pulled Helena into his arms and gave her a warm hug. I was squealing inside when I saw her wrap her arms around his middle and return the gesture. He kissed her forehead and hair before encasing her face. "I'll be back later sweetheart, I promise - okay?"
"Yeah..." she breathed and hugged him once more before they pulled apart.
When she turned to me I smiled and motioned her towards the kitchen. "I'll be there in a second." I said softly as I took her jacket from her. She sent me a nod and started that way.
Piers opened the door to leave as I hung Helena's coat in the front closet. "Take care of her and please don't bring it up unless she does. It helps her to talk about it when the feelings hit her but not otherwise."
I nodded in understanding. "Okay, you be careful out there." I said walking up to shut the door behind him. "And don't worry, she's in good hands."
He sent me a warm smile and made his way to his car. I waved to him as he pulled off and shut the door afterwards.
I walked to the kitchen, Helena was staring out the back windows while she sat on the stools behind the island countertop. I put my hairnet and apron back on to finish tending to the chili. She glanced in my direction and I sent her a smile before I went to the sink to wash my hands.
"Can I get you anything?" I asked her. "Some ice water - or maybe a soda?"
"You got any beer?" she responded with a dry sort of humor.
I giggled a bit. "I'll check and see if Jake brought a few up here from the basement." as I moved to the fridge she stopped me.
"I was just teasing, I don't need any more to drink. I'll be a drunk in no time if I drink anymore today." she said and leaned her head onto her hand, her elbow on the counter. "I'll just watch you cook."
I cracked a small smile to her and then turned my attention to the pot on the stove. I turned the fire down and begun digging through the cabinets for another pan. I filled one with water and set it to boil over the stove.
"What are you making?" she asked me.
"Chili but I'm giving everyone the option to eat either rice with theirs or some crackers and toasted garlic bread." I felt my stomach growl just talking about it. I was famished.
"That sounds really good." she commented.
I smiled at her. "You're free to eat some too. I've made plenty."
"Thanks... I honestly haven't eaten much of anything today. Just some cereal and a cheese sandwich that Piers tried to shove down my throat."
"I believe you." I giggled. "If food is an issue I could prepare a few meals for you to eat before we leave in the next few days - if you want me to, I mean."
"Nah, I can cook but I..." she sighed. "I'm just not really feeling up to eating anything unless I'm starved. It's not easy right now... but thanks Sherry."
I nodded to her. "Not a problem and I understand..." I turned back to my dinner prep and pulled a loaf of garlic bread from the freezer to stick it in the old-fashioned oven.
"Do you have any sisters or brothers?" she asked me suddenly. I bit my lip and looked to her, shaking my head. "Count yourself lucky, siblings are nothing but trouble, especially if you're the oldest and feel obligated to protect the younger sib. Whenever something happens to them you just... you blame yourself."
I listened to her while I made sure dinner was progressing.
"Everyone's always telling me I did nothing wrong and there was nothing I could have done but I don't agree with that. I knew I should have picked her up from school or walked her there... but when Piers said she refused his offer to take her I figured she had her reasons for wanting to be alone - she didn't wake me that morning… usually she did."
Helena's eyes stared off into nowhere as she spoke. "She was always such a happy girl, so fun and silly. She knew how to get everyone excited. The only thing she did wrong in her life was getting mixed up with Peter." she shook her head disgusted. "I tried so hard to get her away from him but she never listened. I was always being overprotective or just too cautious in her opinion - but I didn't trust him."
"I can recognize a bad man when I see him and Peter reminded me so much of Simmons with his fake concerns and false sense of pride within himself. And then to hear that Peter was putting her through almost the same thing Simmons was... it just makes me sick to even think about it."
Almost the same thing? Wait... is she saying -
"It may not come as much of a surprise to you, Sherry but... Simmons abused my sister and I. At first he just beat us but then I started noticing that Deborah was being kept home from school some days while he was sending me every single day. One day I got sick at school and I was being walked home by one of these dudes I was in a gang with... it was early summer, the school year was almost over - Jake was away with his dad on some business trip so I just walked with this guy instead."
"We split in front of my house and I started up the steps when I heard some weird noises..." I could see tears pooling in her eyes. I grabbed a paper towel and handed it to her before I sat next to her.
The bread and chili was finished, all that was left was the rice which was boiling currently on a low temperature.
She wiped at her eyes and sniffed. "I... I peeked through the window and saw him... The sick bastard was prostituting her!" she started to cry into her clenched fists. I wrapped my arms around her, stroking her hair to calm her some.
Simmons just gets sicker and sicker.
"T-The guy she was with stopped once he heard me scream and Simmons demanded I come in the house but I ran to tell someone... The nearest neighbor we had was yards away, we were in such an isolated spot - just so he could abuse and neglect us. While I was running, I tripped and fell onto my face - bust my nose open and when he caught up to me he kicked me over and over until I was barely unconscious. Then he brought me back to the house and threw me into my room where I stayed."
"A long time passed before a doctor showed up. His name was George Hamilton - he was more than aware of the abuse we were suffering so when I turned 18 he offered me enough money to move out and take Deborah with me. I jumped at that opportunity. Later I found out that George was the one in charge of the insurance money my parents left behind and he gave it to me to make a start for ourselves. So once I got the money, we moved here to London."
"W-wait... Simmons isn't your real father?"
She shook her head. "Thank God, he's way too fucked up to have his own kids and I feel sorry for any woman who would date a sick fuck like him. Deborah was 14 when he started using her - he's sick." I nodded agreeing with her. "Simmons adopted Deborah and me when my parents were killed in action - they were in the CIA so God knows what happened to them..."
"He adopted us after my parents died, it was a year after Piers moved away. Our parents weren't around much due to their job so I took care of Deborah all my life, I protected her. Piers would always come around and give support so Deborah was really fond of him - imagine how much it hurt to tell her that he was gone and then a few short months later our parents were dead."
"We stayed with family, jumping uncles to cousins - it was too much. Then for Simmons to show up and promise we were going to be in good hands with him, it just seemed like a godsend. Unfortunately, the cruel reality set in the moment he cut us off from society and started beating us. When I didn't get any news from Piers, I thought he stopped caring about me..."
So that's why Piers stopped getting replies from her. Could Simmons have gotten in the way of them...?
"Three years of merciless abuse was too much for Debbie..." she whispered. "It wasn't easy for me either. I started to distrust men, she started to make poor choices with them. I started dating girls, she started doing drugs... It's like no matter what we were just bound to be screwed up. No matter what I did, I always seemed to fail her. I couldn't protect her... and now she's gone."
I stood up to stir the rice and turn the stove off. I returned to hug her afterwards. "He just had her life ended like she meant nothing to no one..." she cried onto my shoulder. "She was all I had! She was my little sister, the remainder of the family I had as a child - when we were happy! ...And now she's gone and I'm alone. Maybe I deserve this for being a bad sister... maybe I'm being punished for everything I've done."
"Shh..." I rubbed her back soothingly, rocking her back and forth. "It's okay… you're not alone, Helena. You're never alone."
"Sherry, Debbie's dead - I have no one left…" she pulled away from me and moved towards the windows along the back. "You don't have siblings... You don't know this pain." she said dolefully.
She's right, I don't. I never had anyone to care for growing up... But I recognize this fear she has... she's afraid she's going to be alone - that because she couldn't protect Deborah that means she has no one to be beside her. She thinks she needs to protect another to feel important and to have a meaning to her life. But she doesn't have to keep fighting like this - she needs to find peace - something else from her happier times that made her feel good.
Jake was there for her throughout her ordeal with Simmons, they shared the same pain of feeling like they had no one and they made sacrifices to protect someone they love, holding all that responsibility on their shoulders.
She also has Piers - someone I know is aware of her pain. He's wants to show her that she's never going to be alone and that she actually does have a chance at happiness.
"You're right," I started softly. "I can't even begin to understand the pain you feel from losing your sister, but you are not alone, Helena." I stepped closer to her slowly. "It's true, no one in the world can take her place in your heart. She was a sister, someone you grew up with who was beside you whenever you needed motivation to keep moving forward. But, there are others who were there too, right?"
She shot me a look of curiosity and irritation. "It was always me and her, no one else Sherry."
"What about Jake? He was about the same age as Deborah right? He's a guy who's stuck by your side through thick and thin. He told me about how much trouble you two would get in, how much fun you two had together - he even explained that pig-related nickname."
I heard her snort back a laugh but she couldn't hold it in much. She sniffed. "That big ginger-haired loser."
I smiled and moved a bit closer. "He cares a tremendous amount for you. Whenever you're upset, it bothers him. You're like his big sister, he always tries to help you whenever you need him. That big ginger haired loser knows the pain you endured from Simmons and how much you went through with Deborah because he understands your anguish. He stuck by you, fought for you and her - kicked Peter's butt a lot too from what I heard."
"Yeah... he's always there when I need him. Little brat." she sniffed. "I still remember when he was shorter than me."
I giggled and neared her. "It sounds to me like he's a guy that you can trust, as well as another sibling for you to keep an eye on."
She looked over her shoulder at me. "I don't know… I guess."
We faced each other and I took both of her hands. "There's one more guy that you have in your life that also knows who you are and stands beside you no matter what has happened." she bit her lip. "Piers." I saw her start to tear up. "You still have Piers, Helena - the guy you grew up with who was there to share those experiences with both of you - during the times when you and Deborah were happy. All of those memories you have of her back then - he can share them with you and he will, because while the two of you were torn apart before and he's never going to leave you again - he's here for you until the end."
She tried frantically to wipe her tears away. "You sound just like her." I raised my brows. "When Piers showed up again she was so happy to see him. She still called him brother and teased about our relationship. I denied us to her every time and she just kept telling me that I was being a fool because now that he's back he's never gonna leave me again. She said we finally were happy again... and we were."
"She told me over and over to give him a chance and so I've... been trying to. She always told me that he would come back but I didn't believe her because the letters stopped coming."
"Piers said he wrote to you very often but he never got any from you." I said gently.
"So... Simmons is to blame for that then." she confirmed before letting out a huff. "I know you're right Sherry but it's hard to accept this."
"It takes time." I told her kindly. "Just know that Simmons can't hurt you anymore."
"But he had Deborah killed. I want him to pay for what he's done." she growled. "I want him to pay for everything he's put us through. I want to expose him for the monster that he is... If only there was something I could do."
I smiled. "You remember the guy from the Halloween party wearing that pirate costume, he was with the Chinese ghost lady?" she raised her brow at me but nodded. "That's Leon, he's been a like father for me ever since I was 18. Like you, I was cut off from society but he and Claire saved me from it. Leon's an agent from the U.S and he's here to investigate the murders going on around here. I told him about Deborah and he would love to learn more information so he could be of help to you."
I put my hands on her shoulders. "Trust me when I tell you, Leon's a hero. He always comes through no matter what. He's a guy I swear to you is trustworthy."
"And he can help me figure out what happened to Deborah?" she asked anxiously.
"He'll do his best," I assured. "I'll give you his number and you can tell him everything. He and his partner Ada take down bad guys all the time and if Simmons is involved in what happened to Deborah then he will be brought down. Oh, and if you need moral support, Claire's a great option!"
She chuckled lightly. "Thanks, that makes me feel so much better. I just feel like the police aren't doing enough. If this Leon guy is as good as you say I believe you. Piers and I will tell him everything, we'll even help him solve this if we can."
I gave her a hug. "Don't worry, whoever did this won't get away with it."
She nodded and gave me a smile. "You know, Jake's right - you're cuteness conceals that fight in you." she pinched my cheek and I just laughed. "He's also told me how easy it is to feel at ease when you're around - might be your powers though, isn't?"
I wonder who else knows of my abilities...
"We're back!"
We were startled by the loud introduction Mar made as he came racing into the kitchen. I burst into a fit of laughter because he was carrying a cereal box, a bag full of starburst candy and he dragged a pack of sodas behind him. He looked like the sugar monster or something as he raced over and gave me a hug and doing the same for Helena.
Jake came in afterwards and placed five big bags onto the counter. "Something smells fucking delightful." We laughed at him and he raised a brow upon noticing us. "Hey Supergirl, Babe what's up? You doin' alright?"
"Actually I'm feeling... pretty good." she said walking up to him. "Thanks to your Supergirl here."
"Oh, what she do?" he asked observing me. I picked up Mar and removed the items he had from his grasp to place them on the counter.
"She's given me a bit of hope that some justice will be done for Debbie. I just hope this Leon's as good as she claims he is - though with how passionately she speaks of him, I don't have many doubts."
Jake's brows elevated before he smirked at me. "So you told her he's on the case?"
I nodded. "I even told him about her. He's willing to help her catch whoever's involved and if it's you-know-who, you can bet Leon will find out. I also offered Claire's support but she might get aggressively emotional..." I giggled.
"Way to go, Supergirl." he said with a smile.
I felt giddy inside. "Never a problem." I noticed Mar was hovering by the pot of chili, just staring at it lustfully. I clapped with a bright smile. "Well - let's put these groceries away so we can finally eat!"
"M-Mom?"
Jake's surprise caught me off guard too. We had just put Marlowe to bed for the night, I'd shut the door with a quiet click and suddenly he's wide eyed. I followed his gaze and smiled as Mrs. Stephanie walked up to us and offered us a warm hug.
Jake was completely stunned. His mouth hung open slightly as he watched her do a spin in front of him. I giggled at her behavior, she was good at making Jake be thrown for a loop.
"You seem surprised, Jake." she said obviously humored. "You don't want your mother to get better for the coming trip?"
"Yeah but wow, it's been a while since I've seen you walking around." Jake said with a concern expression. "Are you sure you're up to it?"
She nodded. "I'll be fine, Jake. Rebecca won't be able to come along this year because of her fiancé and her making plans elsewhere. I want to remain stress less for this so there aren't any incidents without her around to help me." she said softly.
"I arranged for another caregiver to look after ya mom so no worries." Jake said with a smile. "Her name is Alexia Ashford, I met her back when I used to do merc work and she's always been dependable."
Mrs. Stephanie nodded. "Okay, if you trust her then I will too, but don't worry - I'll be fine. Rebecca has been helping me do a lot more than you think. Isn't that right, Sherry?"
I giggled and gave Jake an affirming nod. "She's been up and down stairs and walking around more often."
Jake looked conflicted but conceded, giving her another hug. "I'm glad you're doing okay, mom."
After she retreated back to her room for the night, Jake and I started down the stairs to call it a night. Jake took my hand when we reached the bottom. "Sherry, come with me." he said, leading me towards the double doors to the formal dining room.
"Where are we going?" I asked softly as we passed through the room and into the music room/art gallery.
Jake sat down in front of the grand piano and offered me to sit beside him. "Jake, wait - Mar's asleep, you can't play right now." I said taking his hands.
"I wasn't going to, I just wanted to sit here because of the quiet, different scenery. We don't come here often." he replied, wrapping his arms around me. "You wouldn't want me to play for you?"
I smiled warmly to him, cupping his face in my small hands. "I'd love for you to, but I'm just a little worried about waking the little one."
"That's alright, would you mind me telling you something important?"
"Not at all." I cooed to him sweetly.
"Sherry, I don't wanna make you feel like we're rushing or anything, I just want you to be happy and I can take any decision you decide. No matter what, I'm gonna be here for you because you mean a lot to me - you understand?"
I nodded, my smile widening. "Jake, I've been through quite a bit with you lately and even though it's only been a short while, I feel like you and I have a very strong connection. You're the first man I've ever been with, both friendship wise, romantically and... intimately." I fought the heat coming to my face.
I wasn't even sure if I was really rushing our relationship anymore. I couldn't ignore the connection I felt with him. Jake accepted me for everything I was - my powers, my past, my flaws and all. I would attribute our relationship as a strong bond that was tough and romantic because there wasn't anyone else in the world that understood us like we did for each other.
The two of us [along with Marlowe] were people all our own and that's why we got so close so quickly. The future would take us where it wanted. I wasn't going to concentrate on a future marriage at such an early stage in our relationship, I wasn't going to focus on anything except the present and right now, I was happy to be his girlfriend and I would be more than just pleased to make that title official – even if it was a façade as far as Mr. Wesker was concerned.
It would be the real deal for us.
"I... I really think I like the idea of being your consort - err girlfriend - officially. If time permits it and things go well between us, I don't feel frightened by possible marriage in the future because I know we'll take our time and move in union for everything. We've done that since we've gotten together, you've never rushed me into anything and I thank you for your patience with me. Right now I'm comfortable with just keeping things as they are with us being girlfriend and boyfriend so I hope you're okay with me accepting this proposal from your father."
"You sure about this?" Jake asked quietly. "Your future is in my hands, Supergirl."
I took in some air. "I know you won't let anything happen to me and I promise I won't do anything to cause you problems. I'm done being so careless, I'm comfortable being loyal to my responsibilities and I will not overstep my bounds again – unless you or your dad tell me to."
I gave his hand a tight squeeze. "I'd be more than happy to belong to you and be under your care. After all, isn't that what you said before? You'd be my master so long as I belong to you and only you?"
Jake chuckled aloud, I joined him. "Funny, the irony here is too weird." he kissed my cheek. "Thanks, baby girl. I won't let anything happen to you, I promise."
We hugged.
A few days later I was on another plane, only this time I was with the entire Wesker family as we made our way to Finland.
We were headed for a new home, a new adventure, a new world but I knew that we would return to London eventually.
Until that day, I would relish in the surprise and excitement that was coming my way.
A/N: Chapter 14 is finally complete! Yosh! Hope you enjoyed it because there's going to be a time skip coming up in the next three chaps or so - not sure, it depends on how everything flows. This is a pretty long fic so far that I have planned I'm estimating it extends to between 25 - 30 chapters.
The reason I chose for the family to go to Finland is because of Jake and Sherry's Chapter 2 scenario. I know they're supposed to be in an area kind of like Serbia (because the j'avo in Edonia speak Serbian) but I've got other ideas for Edonia in this fic so Serbia will show up at that time. Meanwhile, Finaland is beautiful and perfect for them to visit in winter [It's also very, very cold... ].
Another reason is because they're zooming in on Christmas and Finland (well Lapland) is Santa Claus' place of residence so it's a gift for little Marlowe. XD I can't wait to get to that chapter but first comes the bonus chapter...
Next chapter is going to be a BONUS chap told in third person and focus on some relevations of Helena and Piers with some Ada, Leon, Claire and a few more involved. If this works out I may do a few more for them at random moments but it depends.
ALSO EPIC NEWS! (At least I think...)
I'm working on a short fic (3 - 5 chaps long) and it's another JakexSherry. It's definitely going to be cute so I hope you all will check it out when I upload it.
It's about Jake and Sherry from elementary to high school - how they go from best friends, to enemies, to confused and finally something special.
I'm not discontinuing this fic [I'm definitely finishing it] but the new fic will go along with this one so expect that I will update each back to back or something lol depends on how the day goes. :D
Any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to let me know! Thanks for all the reviews, favs and alerts - you're motivating me a TON. Don't forget to R&R and I will be seeing you guys/girls soon!
-Vio