Foreign Affairs: The Rewrite
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Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to the Choices universe, including anything in or relating to the world of Foreign Affairs. Enjoy!
Previously on Foreign Affairs...
Getting some positive responses to your ski slope appearances with Alexei. The people of Rutherland are loving the two of you together. Keep up the good work!
My stomach churned as I read his words. Alexei was nice and all, but after last night, it was getting harder and harder to stay away from Tatum. Or even Blaine for that matter!
I jumped as a loud knock sounded at my door. I quickly tossed my blankets aside and padded over. As I opened the door, I found Alexei waiting on the other side, his expression looking troubled.
"Alexei? What's going on?" I asked, my voice still gruff with sleep.
He frowned at me. "I'm so sorry, but...we need to talk."
**Trigger Warning!**: This chapter contains scenes of a violent assault and gun violence. Reader discretion is advised.
Chapter Twelve: Bully Pulpit
After the bombshell Alexei dropped at my doorstep this morning, I agreed to meet him for breakfast so we could talk about whatever it was he needed to talk about. Though I already had an inkling to what it could be...
'We need to talk' only ever means one of two things: I wanna break up, or, I'm pregnant. I figured with Alexei, it was the former.
After getting dressed, I walked down to the café on the main floor where my 'boyfriend' was already seated at a table. I let out a nervous breath as I made my way over to him. Had I really been that bad of a fake girlfriend? Despite the lack of actual romantic feelings, I thought we were at least having fun together!
I glanced over at the throng of reporters outside the window, their cameras trained on me. How were they already here?
"Don't worry," Alexei said as I approached, "they can't hear anything we're saying unless we scream. That glass is literally bulletproof." As I sat down across from him, I glanced at the two entrances to the cafe. Tatum stood protectively at one while Alexei's guarded the other.
"So what's this about?" I asked. "You said we needed to talk?"
He fidgeted nervously.
"I kinda need to confess something. You can't tell anyone else, though, okay?"
I nodded. "Of course." He let out a shaky breath before continuing.
"Alright, here goes... I only agreed to this whole fake relationship because I thought the person I liked wasn't into me." He smiled a little. "But, uh, it seems like I might've been wrong about that. So...we need to find an excuse to call it quits."
I stared at him, eyes wide with shock. "I'm getting dumped by my fake boyfriend?" I blurted out. Guilt flashed quickly across his features.
"Don't get me wrong, this has been nice and all, and I don't want to screw you over, but I do wanna find a way to just...dip."
I let out a small sigh as I nodded. "I get that. And I don't want you to feel like you're stuck. You have just as much say in this 'relationship'. I just wanna make sure you're doing what makes you happy," I replied sincerely. He shot me a soft smile.
"Thanks, Lorelai."
I sent him back a small smile of my own.
"So, who is it?" I finally asked after a brief moment of silence. A sly smile slipped across my lips. "I bet I can guess. It is one of our classmates, right?"
Alexei chuckled as he took another sip of his coffee.
"Not exactly Sherlock-level sleuthing, Lorelai. We never see anyone else." I narrowed my eyes slightly as I studied him. The conversation I'd had yesterday with a certain bashful classmate of ours flittered through my brain.
I smirked as I said, "So, you and Henri, huh?" Alexei rubbed the back of his neck as he nodded sheepishly.
"We've always been friends, but...I never thought it would turn into more than that."
"So how'd you figure out he's into you? Did one of you make a move after skiing together yesterday?" I asked.
He shook his head. "Not exactly. I'm supposed to be dating you, remember?" I bit my lip as another wave of guilt crashed through me. The events of last night, with two certain somebodies quickly came to mind. I did my best not to let my guilt show as I nodded.
"Right..."
Alexei let out a small sigh.
"For a moment, I thought something might happen, but..." he trailed off. His gaze glanced over at the window as the paparazzi pressed themselves tighter against the glass. "You know what, forget I said anything. Nothing can happen anyway."
I furrowed my brows at him. "Why can't it? If you think Henri is into you too, I don't see the problem." He stared at me, almost in disbelief.
"But what about your scandal? I figured you'd want—"
I shook my head angrily.
"Screw the scandal! I'm tired of all of us sacrificing the way we want to live for the sake of avoiding a scandal." I gestured towards where the paparazzi were furiously snapping photos. "They follow us around anyway! If we don't give them a scandal, they make one up. I'm not going to let my scandal stand in the way of two of my friends being happy together."
Alexei smiled at me gratefully, then his eyes slowly widened as an idea struck him. "Wait...what if we did give them a scandal?" he asked. I cocked a confused eyebrow at him.
"I'm not sure how that helps us...," I replied slowly. He smirked mischievously at me.
"If we stage a big blow up where I'm the bad guy, then you'll be totally justified in dumping me. It'll probably even help your image!"
I nodded in response as I thought. That would free both of us to be able to date who we wanted... Well, at least for Alexei and Henri.
"But what about your image? We had an agreement with your whole family."
He shrugged casually. "Eh, screw 'em. My dad'll never be satisfied with what I do, and my mom won't care as long as I'm happy." He paused, his smile faltering a little. "But I won't do anything you don't feel comfortable with."
A loud banging sounded on the window next to us, and we both looked over to see a lone photographer that had broken off from the rest of the pack.
"Hey, Alexei! Smile!"
Alexei's bodyguard quickly stepped up to the window and snarled, "Back up. Right. Now."
I turned my attention back to Alexei, a resolute expression on my face. They'd already disrupted my life enough. It was because of them that I couldn't have a normal relationship with the man I loved. I wasn't going to put Alexei and Henri for that same fate.
Especially not when I was the one standing in there way.
"Let's do this," I stated with a smirk. His expression immediately perked up at my words.
"Wait, seriously?" he asked, sounding growingly ecstatic. "Are you sure?"
I nodded emphatically. "Absolutely. What do you need me to do?" His eyes flickered over to the waitress behind my shoulder and a small, devious smile crossed his lips.
"Just follow my lead, and make sure to be really loud," he whispered. He sat straighter and held up a had to signal the waitress. She came quickly over. "We need the bill."
She nodded politely. "Right away, sir." Then as she walked away, Alexei leaned off to the side to get a better view of her retreating form, his eyes roaming over her exaggeratedly.
A flurry of flashes shuttered next to us as photographers piled on top of each other to get a better shot. They'd definitely noticed that. Now for my contribution. I fixed my face into an angry scowl as I raised my voice loud enough for them to hear beyond the glass.
"Are you serious, Alexei?!" I yelled. "Did you seriously just check someone out? We're on a date right now!" He shrugged as he waved me off.
"Listen, baby," he said, his voice also louder than usual. "I'm the Glorious Son of the Republic of Esherstein. If I want to check out a hottie...I'm gonna."
I scoffed loudly as I sat back in my chair. "Were you always this crude?"
He smirked at me.
"Call me names all you want. Not gonna stop me from being me."
I rolled my eyes as I spat back, "Real mature." Out of the corner of my eye, I could see a reporter creeping far enough through the restaurant doors to record sound and video. Tatum quickly moved to block him.
"Tatum!" I yelled. He froze as his gaze snapped to mine. "Get my coat. I'm leaving."
He glared back over to the photographer. "I need to deal with—"
"Now!" I demanded. He stared back at me wordlessly, confusion and surprise flickering in his eyes. After a moment, he obediently turned to do as I say.
I stood dramatically, causing Alexei to jump up as well.
"Chill out, Lorelai!" he exclaimed. "This is just how things are where I'm from!"
I crossed my arms angrily in front of my chest. "And where I'm from, we actually respect our partners." He gaped at me.
"So you're breaking up with me because I recognize some nice tail when I see some?" he asked loudly, his tone sounding shocked. I shook my head fiercely.
"No. I'm dumping you because you're an arrogant jerk!" I replied venomously. "You act like your needs are the only ones that matter. And I'm done with you and your attitude!"
Now, for the second part of my plan. I swiftly reached over the table to crab Alexei's half-empty and now slightly cold mug of coffee. With one fluid motion, I threw the lukewarm contents into his face.
He sputtered as he wiped dripping coffee out of his eyes.
"That's what you get for treating me this way! We're through!" I shouted. I slammed the mug back down, and stormed towards the entrance back into the main lodge. The reporter rushed forward to intercept me.
I blinked back fake tears as he approached. "Lorelai, care to comment on what just happened?" he asked. I shook my head sadly.
"No, I'm sorry. I'm too upset after what Alexei just did to me," I answered, my tone angry and pained.
I made my way to lobby as I waited for my now 'ex-boyfriend'. A little later, he rushed over from another entrance, smiling broadly.
"That was amazing! They totally bought it!" He cheered quietly. I nodded happily as a small chuckle escaped my throat.
"Couldn't have gone better, honestly."
Evelyn, Henri, and Blaine approached us, cell phones in hand and surprise on their faces. Evelyn raised an eyebrow at the two of us as she held hers up in the air.
"Why is my feed blowing up with a video of you two screaming at each other?" she asked.
Blaine flashed an approving smile. "Now this is entertainment. I just wish you two were this much fun to watch when you were together."
Henri turned to us with wide eyes.
"Wait, does that mean you guys broke up?" he asked, sounding hopeful. I bit back my smile as I nodded. Alexei slung an arm nonchalantly around my shoulders and shrugged.
"Yeah, but Lorelai and I are cool."
Blaine scoffed. "Rude. Just when this group finally had a chance for a little drama." Evelyn shrugged as she turned towards him.
"Oh, I don't know...there are lots of ways to make drama. Now, I believe you owe me a new set of ski poles," she said flauntingly before grabbing his arm and dragging him away. Blaine glanced back at me, catching my eye.
"You good?" he mouthed.
I shot him a reassuring smile as I nodded back wordlessly. He smiled back a little, content with my answer, before turning around and following Evelyn. Henri shook his head in confusion.
"I'm still not sure I'm following. Weren't you two getting serious?" he asked. I smiled warmly at him as I shook my head.
"Actually, our whole relationship was just a publicity stunt. Our PR teams arranged it after my scandal," I explained.
Henri's eyes flashed to Alexei. "Really? That's good. I mean—"
Alexei smiled at him as he replied, "Don't worry, I hear you. And...I totally agree." Henri visibly relaxed at his words as a smile of his own crossed his face. My eyes trailed over Alexei's stained shirt and another idea popped into my head.
"Hey Alexei, don't you need to go get cleaned up?" I asked, eyeing the two of the suggestively. He chuckled as he looked down at his wet clothes.
"Oh right. I'm still covered in this crap thanks to you."
Henri took a step closer to him. "I can help. You know, if you want." Alexei smiled shyly as he nodded.
"Thanks."
I smirked as I stepped back from the lovebirds. "I'll catch you two later." They both gave me a small wave goodbye, their gazes never leaving each other.
Looks like my work here is done.
I got in a few more slope runs that afternoon. After my muscles were sufficiently screaming at me, I began my way back to the lodge. Tatum trailed behind me, but stopped just short of the lobby.
"What's your plan for the rest of the day?" he asked. I smirked over at him.
"What, are you trying to keep me from getting into more trouble?"
He chuckled. "Always. But today specifically, Demarco will be taking over in a few minutes, so I wanna give him a heads-up before the shift change." I nodded understandingly.
"Ah. Well, you don't have to worry about me. I'll probably just be hanging out with my friends at the lodge the rest of the day. But..." I took a step closer to him as I dropped my voice low. "I'll be missing you the whole time."
He smirked back at me.
"Flatter me all you want, I'm not gonna tell him to let you sneak out."
I shrugged as I took a step back.
"Worth a try," I joked. "Now, go relax! That's an order."
He smiled as he shot me a quick mock salute. "Yes, ma'am."
I headed back inside as Tatum and Demarco did the handoff and immediately found my friends were gathered on the couches surrounding the crackling fire. Dionne beamed at me as I approached.
"Hey, Lorelai. Come warm up," she said cheerfully. Zaira smirked as she held up a steaming mug.
"If our company isn't enough enticement, we've got spiked hot chocolate."
I chuckled as I sat down next to them. "How can I say no to that?" Peter handed me a mug and I took it eagerly. "So, Peter, do they have this much snow back in Ulmeria?"
He nodded happily.
"Piles and piles of it every winter. But the countryside is beautiful in the spring."
Zaira snorted. "Too bad there's nothing to do there. What's the national pastime again? Watching wheat grow?" Peter gaped at her, looking very offended.
"Wheat farmers are the backbone of our economy!" he defended. Evelyn perked up next to him.
"There are actually some pretty interesting statistics about the monarchy's economic relationship with agriculture. Historically—"
Dionne leaned forward to interrupt. "Oh, Evelyn! I have a fact you might be interested in!" The bookworm glanced over towards the princess.
"Really? What?" she asked. Dionne smirked at her.
"We're on vacation." She quickly turned back to Peter. quickly changing the conversation with a genuine smile. "I'd love to see the Ulmerian countryside someday."
He looked away timidly. "Oh, I'm sure Philip will give you a tour...," he muttered. Dionne deflated as she nodded sadly, her gaze dropping to the mug in her hand.
"Right. Philip."
I glanced between the two of them. Were they really the only two that were oblivious to how they felt about each other? For Dionne's sake, I hoped Philip was just as unobservant as Peter.
"I'm sure Philip's busy with meetings all day. You know, you should spend Spring Break in Ulmeria, Di. Then you could keep Peter company, and he could give you that tour!" I suggested.
Dionne's eyes brightened as she glanced back to Peter. His eyes were wide, but I noticed the smile that twitched at the corners of his lips.
"Would, uh...would that be okay?" she asked hesitantly. His features relaxed into a cool smile as he nodded.
"Yeah..., I'd like that."
I smiled as I quickly stood to my feet. "Well, I need a refill. Next round of hot cocoa is on me!" As I headed over to the bar, I felt my phone start buzzing incessantly in my pocket. I groaned as I watched Mom's name pop up on the screen. No doubt this was about me ending my relationship with Alexei without their permission...
I hurried off to the privacy of my room before answering.
"Hi Mom," I greeted. "What's—"
"Are you alone?" she immediately asked, cutting me off.
I sighed. "Yeah, I'm in my room. Why?"
"My new approval numbers just came in...and they're worse than ever," she replied, her voice filled to the brim with hurt. "Lewis Wright is hot on my heels and sinking my ratings. It's a disgrace."
I frowned as I paced lightly across my room. "People are probably just intrigued by him because he's new. I'm sure they'll come to their senses before the election—"
"It's too late for that, I'm afraid. Plus, I've been underestimating his...appeal to a large subset of the population. He has a way of spinning everything so he looks morally superior and I look like a fool. And unfortunately, your scandal has given him a lot of ammo. Not to mention your recent break up."
I bit my lip hard. "Don't worry, Mom. You can still change their minds. The campaign isn't over yet. You've still got plenty of time to turn the public around."
"Not with mail-in ballots going out in a few weeks," she replied angrily. "Our window of opportunity is shrinking fast. Do you know how many questions I answered about foreign policy in my press conference this morning?"
I gulped.
"I'm guessing not many..."
"None," she spat, "Every reporter only wanted to ask about my out-of-control daughter." I closed my eyes as a stabbing pain ripped through my heart. I hated that I was the reason she was going through this. All because I couldn't keep it in my pants...
"Mom...," I breathed, my voice shaky.
She huffed over the line. "There are real issues that need to be discussed, Lorelai. And the Peace Summit is coming up. But no one will focus on important issues if there's something more tantalizing out there. I swear, if you only knew what I've had to deal with..."
Something inside of me snapped. What she's had to deal with? I get that her tanking poll numbers have been stressing her out, but this hasn't exactly been a walk in the park for me either. My entire life was turned upside down! I couldn't be with the man I loved, the whole world saw a half naked photo of me, and I'd been the hot goss on campus for weeks.
"Mom, I know you're having a hard time, but so am I," I snapped, my tone firm and unwavering. Blaine was right. It's time to stand up for myself. "You're not the only one dealing with their crap. And I'm not even the one running for office!"
She scoffed. "I'm not the one who got caught with my pants down, Lorelai, so let's stop throwing stones, hm?" Mom paused as she took a deep breath. "Look, I'm sorry. I shouldn't keep bringing up the past. What's done is done, and we can't change it."
I sat down on the edge of my bed.
"At the end of the day," she continued, "I don't know if you're the reason my numbers keep falling, but we can't ignore the possibility. We can't afford another scandal."
I felt my anger start to deflate deflate as I nodded.
"You don't have to tell me twice," I muttered.
"With the Peace Summit coming up, I don't want to take any chances. My role there depends on being taken seriously as a leader. If other world leaders don't think I can maintain control in my own home, how will they ever take me seriously on a global stage?" she asked. "I need you to step it up. Be a real role model. No more messing around, of any kind, with anyone."
I felt another spell of fury burst inside of me. Had she forgotten all the ground work I'd been laying this semester for her Peace Summit? Had she forgotten how I've been putting myself through hell trying to right this stupid wrong?
"Mom, that is not fair. I've done everything you've asked me to! Can't you—"
But she doesn't stop talking, like she's not even listening. "I'm leaving for the west coast first thing in the morning, but I've spoken to Winston about keeping your redemption tour at full speed until—"
"Mom!" I shouted into the phone. "Will you please just listen to me for once? I'm sick of all this! I'm sick of my life revolving around your career, I'm sick of paparazzi stalking me, and I'm sick of the fact that you're basically agreeing with everyone who says I should be ashamed of what happened!"
"Don't twist my words! I've never said there was anything inherently wrong with your actions, I just—"
I rolled my eyes. "Then why don't you say that to your voters? Why don't you tell the media they're the ones in the wrong? Why don't you try sticking up for your daughter instead of your career? Because right now, it seems like you care an awful lot more about what the public thinks than you do about me."
"Lorelai, I've given you the best life I can," she shot back. "You've had privileges that other kids could only dream of. Another president might've distanced themselves, but at least I'm supporting you!"
I let out a bitter laugh. Is that why she'd been doing all these years? Funny, I thought that was always Dad. Or Tatum, or even Winston!
"Don't try to make me feel guilty for being upset. I didn't care about any of that stuff, Mom. I just wanted you," I replied, my voice starting to waver again. "You know what, I hope Lewis Wright wins."
Angry tears started to well in my eyes, but I blinked them back. "Maybe then I'll get my mom back. Personally, I haven't seen her since your inauguration."
"Lorelai—"
I ended the call and tossed my phone on the bed in frustration. I slowly sunk to the floor with an aggravated sigh. Nothing I could ever do will be enough for her. I'll always be one stop short of the perfect daughter in her book. But, at least I knew I wasn't alone. Blaine felt that way about his own dad, and Alexei too.
But that didn't mean Mom had the right to blame me for everything that's gone wrong with her campaign. The walls of my room suddenly felt like they were starting to close in on me and I squeezed my eyes shut tightly as I ran a panicked hand through me hair.
I have to get out of here.
I stormed down to lodge lobby, my mom's words still echoing in my ears.
I don't know if you're the reason my numbers keep falling...
"Whoa, Lorelai," Ayna gasped after I nearly bowled her over. "Are you okay?" Her eyes were wide and filled with concern. I willed my boiling blood to cool as I shrugged as nonchalantly as I could.
"Just the usual trials and tribulations of being First Daughter," I replied glumly.
She frowned sympathetically. "Is this about the tabloid picture, the paparazzi, or your mom's campaign?"
"D. All of the above."
She placed a comforting hand on my arm.
"I'm sorry, Lorelai. If you want to talk about it, I'm here for you."
I let out a slightly bitter laugh. "You're always so calm and composed, Ayna. How do you do it? You have all this responsibility, and it doesn't seem to faze you at all. Don't you get tired of—"
"Other people's expectations? Being told what to do?" she finished for me. I nodded. "I certainly don't have the same level of responsibility as you or your classmates, but lately, I've been trying to focus on who I'm working so hard for."
She gave my arm a light squeeze before dropping her hand back to her side.
"I won't say it's easy, because it isn't. But taking stock of the people in your corner, that helps," she continued. I nodded as I looked down at my shoes.
"Yeah...It's just hard when I feel like I can't even trust my own mom. I feel like I'm just...a variable in the election to her. Not her daughter."
She frowned at me, heartbreak clear on her face. "I'm so sorry, Lorelai. I can't imagine what that must feel like. But I am sure she does care about you."
I swallowed hard.
"Yeah, I know. Sometimes she just has a terrible way of showing it," I muttered. I rubbed my forehead, Mom's venomous voice still echoing in my mind. Finally, I let out a long breath. "I just need to clear my head. If anyone asks, I'm going for a walk."
She nodded, but quickly caught my arm as I began to walk past. "If it helps, I hear there's a lovely, secluded lake on the property. Might be just the calming setting you need right now."
I smiled gratefully at her.
"That sounds perfect. Thanks."
I exited the lodge and trudged through the snow, tightening my coat around me as I stomped my way toward the tree line. It wasn't long before Agent Demarco joined me, only a few paces behind. I paused and glanced back at him.
"Could you give me a little space?" I asked, my voice quiet. He shook his head.
"That's not protocol."
I sighed. "Demarco, please. I'm not asking you to leave. Just don't hover over me? Please? I just need some room to breathe and feel like I'm a normal person, even if I'm not."
He hesitated for a moment, then eventually nodded. He fell back a few more paces as I turned to continue my path on. It wasn't before long that I'd stumbled my way onto the beautiful, frozen lake. I took a seat on a nearby rock and stared out at the crystalline surface.
I let out a relieved exhale as I noticed Demarco standing a respectable distance away.
Thoughts of my mom flooded my brain again as I breathed in the chilly air. I should probably cut her some slack. I knew she was afraid, and very, very stressed. I couldn't imagine being in her shoes. She's never had to deal with a campaign this difficult before. Plus, continuing her duties as President while she ran.
Even if she absolutely still had no right to take it out on me, I'd do anything for her.
So if I needed to be the scapegoat, then so be it. I'd sucked it all up my whole life, there's no use stopping now.
I settled back as I took in the bright blue sky. Soft flakes of snow drifted through the air and a gentle breeze whistled through the trees. Ayna was right, this place was incredibly peaceful.
After awhile, my heart had started to slow back to its normal pace and my tense muscles had started to relax.
A twig snapped behind me, suddenly breaking the silence. Right. No matter how alone I felt out here, I wasn't truly alone. I should probably start heading back before Demarco and I freeze to death.
I turned around to look at him.
"Hey, Demarco—"
My eyes widened as I stared back at a blank, masked face. Two broad shouldered men dressed head to toe in black stood a mere few feet in front of me. I immediately shot to my feet and ran.
My muscles strained as I pushed my legs as fast as they could go. Panic spiked my blood at the sound of their trampling footsteps behind me.
"HELP!" I screamed into the vast wilderness, though I knew the lodge was too far away for anyone to be able to hear me. Where was Demarco?! Had they done something to him?
I suddenly smashed into the snow as a heavy weight landed on top of me and the breath rushed out my lungs. I desperately gasped in mouthfuls of air as one of the masked assailants dragged me back up to my feet. His hand gripped around my upper arms like a vice and he held my back tightly against his chest.
"Lorelai!" I heard Demarco yell. I managed to glance back to see him sprinting towards me, but the second attacker moved to intercept him. I winced in pain as the man holding my arms squeezed even tighter. My blood ran cold as I felt him lean close to my ear.
"We warned you before, Monroe," he snarled. "You should've cancelled the Peace Summit."
I twisted my face in anger as I shifted on my feet.
"Back off," I growled in response. With as much force as I could muster, I brought my right arm forward and slammed my elbow back into his chest. His grip on me loosened as he wheezed, and I took the opportunity to rip free from his grasp and run again.
Then, an incredibly loud bang sounded from behind me.
A hot, excruciating pain exploded in my right leg as a projectile sliced through the outer edge of my thigh. I cried out as I immediately collapsed under the pain.
"LORELAI!" Demarco screamed.
I gasped sharply as I rolled onto my back. My leg was on fire—the most intense heat I'd ever felt in my life. I could barely feel the cold snow beneath me. All I could feel was my burning, searing flesh, heat spreading like a wildfire, as my skin coated with blood. The rest of my limbs felt frozen as I just stared up at the blue sky above me with wide, unblinking eyes.
Hot tears pricked at my eyes as I struggled to breathe.
My attacker caught up to me in an instant, a smoking revolver in his hand. He roughly grabbed my by the arm and pulled me back to my feet. I swayed as I put all my weight on my good leg. I looked down at the blood soaked snow and swallowed hard.
There was little I could to do resist as he dragged me over to the frozen lake. I looked over to see Demarco continuing to face off against not only one, but two other assailants.
He roughly brought his hand to his earpiece as he barked into it, "Shots fired! I repeat, shots fired!" He deftly dodged another punch. "The First Daughter's been hit, I need backup at the lake! Now!"
I tried to struggle as the man dragged me over to the edge of the lake. I stared over at the gun held out in his hand in complete, paralyzing panic. I flinched as another powerful shot rang out, the bullet hitting the ice this time. The smooth surface immediately splintered. With one hard shove, he pushed me down onto the cracks.
I shrieked as the ice underneath me gave way, and I plunged into the freezing water. Every muscle in my body tensed up painfully. My joints felt like they'd turned to concrete and my chest felt like it was going to implode.
Feet stomped roughly into the water behind me and a gloved hand roughly pulled me up to the surface. I gasped desperately for air as I coughed and sputtered. He wrapped a hand firmly around the back of my neck as he leaned in close again.
"Maybe you and your mother will get the message this time."
He pushed against my neck, and the world blurred past as my face plunged back into the freezing water. I struggled against his hold, but it was no use. He was much stronger than me and the wound in my leg was fading my energy fast.
I coughed hard as he yanked me back up. Before I could get another chance to breathe, he slammed me back under the water. I flailed against him, a red tint flooding the water around me.
Then, a few muffled shots sounded in the air. My attacker immediately released me, splashing wildly away. The moment his hand lifted off the back of my head, I shot out of the water and gasped deeply. My lungs burned as I greedily gulped down mouthfuls of crisp air.
"Lorelai!" I heard someone shout from behind me. Darkness began to crowd the edges of my vision as I struggled to turn around. Relief burst through me as I watched my security team race towards the lake, weapons raised, with Tatum leading the pack.
He looked more furious than I'd ever seen him, his strong features fixed in pure rage. I tried to take a step forward, but I stumbled. Black dots began to swirl in my eyes as my legs gave out from under me. I crashed back down into the water, but two strong arms caught me before I was fully submerged.
I opened my eyes blearily to see Tatum's terrified face. He quickly lifted me up into his arms and cradled me tightly against his chest. I coughed spurts of freezing water out of my lungs as he carried me back onto dry land.
"Tatum...," I groaned, my voice hoarse. He shushed me as he held me tighter. I'd never been so happy to feel his body heat than in this moment.
"Shhh, it's okay. You're okay. I'm gonna get you out of here," he breathed. As he lifted his head to shout more orders to the team, his voice slowly faded, and everything around me seemed to grow more and more distant.
Then everything went black.
Warmth enveloped me as I slowly opened my eyes. I was in a small, clean cabin, wrapped in soft blankets on a couch that had been pulled up close to the roaring fireplace. I winced as I sat up, a sharp, stinging pain pulsed through my leg.
"Tatum?" I croaked.
Hurried footsteps sounded in the kitchen as Tatum's bulky form, sans suit coat, came rushing into the room. His eyes were wild with worry as he took a seat beside me.
"Lorelai, thank God you're awake. We've got an emergency life-flight helicopter on route, okay? How are you feeling?" he asked rapidly, his eyes scanning me over. I offered him a weak smile.
"I've been better. You know, I should really stop hanging out at lakes...," I joked. My eyes drifted down to the bright red stain soaked into Tatum's white dress shirt and I gulped.
He protested a little as I moved to push the blankets around me aside, but didn't try too hard to stop me. I glanced down at the heavy bandage that was wrapped around my thigh and swallowed hard as another dizzy spell hit me.
"How bad is it?" I asked, my eyes fixed on the tourniquet. Though it felt a little better than before, my leg still felt like it was on fire. Like there were a thousand sharp little needles pricking me over and over, relentlessly. I felt one of his arms snake around my waist to pull me closer to him.
"Looks like they just managed the clip you, but it's not too deep. The bullet went clean through. Could've been a lot worse, but we still need to get you to a hospital and get it checked out." I could feel the tension rolling off his body, but it was clear he was trying to hold himself back for my sake, regardless of how unsuccessful his attempt was.
Though I knew if he weren't here with me, I'd be a complete mess.
I leaned into his side gratefully, desperately trying to ignore the pain at the small movement. "Thank you for being here with me," I breathed. I felt his lips drop a gentle kiss to the top of my head. Warmth bloomed through me, temporarily distracting from the erupting volcano in my thigh.
"I'm not going anywhere. I promise," he whispered back.
"Did you find them?" I asked warily. "The men who attacked us?"
Guilt flashed across his face briefly, causing my stomach to drop. "We apprehended two of the three assailants. The one that had you got away."
Flashes of the attack suddenly flooded my mind. I stared hard at the fire as the immense fear that had gripped my heart when I turned around to see their terrifyingly blank masks returned.
I felt my heart pounding as I remembered the feeling of chunks of ice cutting against my face. I could still feel the way my lungs burned for air under the water, as if his hand was still there, gripping the back of my neck...
I shuddered as I squeezed my eyes shut. This wasn't real, just a memory...
It was all over. They couldn't hurt me now. Especially not when I had Tatum here beside me. I felt him tuck me tighter into his side.
As I opened my eyes to stare at the flickering flames, I quietly asked, "Who were those guys?" I felt his hard body tense even further beside me.
"They said something about Ardona as they were being hauled away, but we won't know more until we've finished interrogating them."
I shook my head as I sat up straighter to face him, wincing on the way up.
"No way, it can't be Ardona. One of them said something to me about the Peace Summit. He said...'maybe you and your mother will get the message this time'." His features fixed into a glare at a spot on the wall. "I think it's the same people...the ones who've been threatening me all semester," I finished.
Agent Demarco cleared his throat as he gingerly stepped into the room. Our gazes snapped over to him and Tatum quickly stood, fuming.
"Miss Monroe," he started, guilt and regret plain on his face and in his tone, "I'm so sorry I couldn't... I...I left you..." He swallowed hard as the words caught in his throat. I shot him a small, reassuring smile.
"It's okay, Demarco. I don't blame anyone but my attackers for what happened."
Tatum's fists clenched at his sides as he continued to stare down the other agent. "You might not, but there will be an internal investigation." He took a threatening step forward. "How could you let them get past you?"
"The assailants were organized. One of their accomplices lured me away, and since I was the only bodyguard present..."
Tatum cursed under his breath as he began to pace the small living room.
"Camp Eirene security made us sloppy. We'll have to double our detail from now on. Triple it." My heart sunk as I contemplated the repercussions of Tatum's statement. Not only would I never have privacy again, but Tatum and I would never get the chance to be alone together.
But at the same time, I'd never been more terrified in my life. Maybe extra guards is exactly what I needed.
Demarco cleared his throat again as he nodded. "Yes, sir. I have to give my full report, but... I just wanted to see you with my own eyes, Miss Monroe." I gave him a grateful smile as he walked off, leaving Tatum and I alone in the safehouse once more.
Outside, the loud sound of chopper propellors sounded. "Chopper has arrived. Repeat, chopper has arrived," someone called over his radio. For a brief moment, a look of pure relief flickered across Tatum's face.
He quickly moved to my side and gently scooped me into his arms. I couldn't bite back the pained groan that escaped me as he lifted me, my grip around his neck tightening. The paramedics met us outside the door and readied a gurney for me. Tatum gently laid me down, and once I was safely strapped in, he climbed into the helicopter after me.
Almost immediately after the doors closed behind us, we were airborne.
From the moment we landed, everything felt like a blur. I was rushed to different doctors, put through all sorts of tests and exams, and thankfully pumped full of pain meds. The wildfire in my leg had finally started to numb and the doctors had ruled out any need for surgery.
It was apparently close enough to the surface to be considered a deep graze. So after a few more hours of observation and another redressing of my wound, I'd most likely be cleared to go home later tonight.
I was wheeled into a private hospital suite with two guards posted outside my door and Tatum sitting protectively in the chair next to me. I still felt a little dizzy from the fentanyl, but at least I wasn't in pain anymore! I couldn't help but wonder if any of my classmates knew what happened. Dionne and Blaine would probably be worried sick.
I frowned over at Tatum as I asked, "Hey, what happened with my stuff at the lodge?"
"The other guards are packing it up now. They'll bring it back for you in their vehicle."
I nodded wordlessly, another deep silence falling over us. The sound of a food tray suddenly clattering to the ground outside my door made us both nearly jump out of our skins. Immediately, images of the attack came flooding back.
The sound of the stick snapping behind me, Demarco's terrified scream, the look on Tatum's face as he ran desperately towards me.
I hard shudder racked through me, prompting Tatum to place a gentle hand over mine.
"You alright?" he asked softly.
I blinked back the welling tears and took in a shaky breath. "I guess reality is finally starting to sink in..." Tatum gave my hand a squeeze, drawing my gaze over to him. How could a person look so strong, yet so incredibly scared at the same time?
"Don't worry. You're safe. I'm not gonna let anything happen to you, never again," he replied, his words firm, yet gentle.
"This whole thing is just so messed up. I've never been so scared in my life—and not just for myself!" I continued, the panic beginning to swell in my chest again. "What about my mom? Has anyone told her what happened? And what about my friends? They're still at the lodge!"
Tatum scooted his chair closer to the edge of my bed as he said soothingly, "The team has already debriefed your mom and your classmates' security details. You have nothing to worry about." I let out a small, bitter laugh.
"I believed that this morning too, but look what happened! What if—"
He reached over to wrap both of my hands in his, his expression determined. "Everything's going to be okay now, Lorelai. I promise." I bit my lip to keep it from quivering as I stared at him.
"I just don't want anyone else to get hurt because of me," I barely managed to whisper. Tatum's eyebrows scrunched at me, his expression unreadable.
"Nobody's gonna get hurt. And none of this is your fault."
A small tear managed to escape out of the corner of my eye as I looked down at our clasped hands. He gently moved to wipe it away, his thumb grazing against my cheek like a soft breeze.
"Of course it is," I muttered, "I'm Mom's weak spot. Her easiest target."
Tatum hooked a finger under my chin and raised my head to meet his gaze again. His face was steely and his features were set in a protective glower.
"That does not make it your fault. You didn't ask to be the president's only child, and you sure as hell didn't ask for politics to be such a blood sport," he replied, his voice sounding gruff and bitter. As he stared into my eyes, his gaze softened and his face started to fall back into a sympathetic frown. "You can't blame a ship for getting caught in a storm."
I couldn't do anything but stare at him, my entire being caught in the safety and comfort of his big, brown eyes. He moved to cup my face in his hands, his warm fingers gently resting along my jaw.
"It won't be like this forever, Lorelai. I promise," he continued. I nodded and swallowed hard. He was right. Eventually, whether sooner or later, Mom wouldn't be president anymore.
"I know, I know. Rutherland has term limits, after all."
Tatum shook his head roughly at me.
"That's not what I meant. We will make sure whoever was behind this attack is locked up. I won't rest until they are. They won't be able to hurt you ever again, not while I'm alive." He dropped his hands from my face. "Then things can go back to how they were before."
I held his intense gaze as the world around us seemed to still, like we were the only two left on the planet. I knew he was trying to put on a brave face for me, but my heart couldn't help but break at the overwhelming love and fear pouring from his gaze.
"Are you okay?" I finally asked.
He gaped at me in disbelief. "Am I okay? How can you even be thinking about me right now...," he trailed off. He stared at me for a beat longer before his surprised face melted into one of anger, his jaw clenching tightly. "But no,...I'm not okay. If anything worse had happened to you today, if I'd lost you, I'd..."
I reached for his hands again and interlaced our fingers tightly. Immense anger swirled with immense pain in his gaze. A shuttered breath escaped him as he continued.
"I'd never forgive myself..."
"But you weren't even on duty. You weren't even supposed to be there."
He shook his head.
"Doesn't matter. For a minute, I really thought I'd lost you out there, Lorelai..." My heart broke at the tortured look in his eyes. "I should've been there for you. I'm supposed to protect you."
I'd never seen Tatum look so vulnerable. On the outside, he was still the strong, fearless army man he'd grown into. But right now, all I could see was that scared little boy who'd always wanted to shield me from the world. I brought up a hand to caress his cheek softly and he leaned into my touch.
"Tatum, you did protect me. You were there for me," I reassured. "You were the first person by my side. And I'm okay now. Sure things got a little rough, but I'm a tough cookie. You taught me how to be."
He gave me a long look as he held my gaze.
"If I can manage to put all the 'what ifs' out of my mind, surely you can as well. Deal?" I continued. He nodded slowly as he leaned forward to rest his forehead against mine.
"Deal."
After what felt like a century of staring into his warm eyes, I slowly closed the distance between us.
My eyes closed as our lips met. Instead of the usual heat and passion, all I felt was love and impossible gentleness. Tatum gave me one last lingering kiss before pulling back to rest his forehead against mine again.
"I'll always be here for you, Lorelai. No matter what," he promised quietly. I smiled a little as I nodded.
My briefly eyes closed as I breathed in his comforting scent, feeling some semblance of peace and contentment for the first time since the attack.
"I know."
The sun had set by the time the hospital finally released me. My vitals were great, my wound was looking okay, and with the help of my narcotics, the pain had finally started to subside. I would still need a crutch under my right arm to support me when I walked for awhile, but other than that, I felt good as new.
As Tatum and I crossed through the threshold of my suite, I let out a happy sigh. Home sweet home. A guard stayed posted outside my front door as Tatum locked it behind us. I carefully hobbled over to the couch as Tatum swept the entire suite and drew all the curtains closed.
After a few minutes, he finally came to join me in the living room.
"All clear. We're safe," he said, his voice sounding both relieved and exhausted.
I nodded as I settled deeper into the couch. "Good." He looked down at his watch.
"It's getting late. We should get you something to eat."
I glanced back towards my room where the inviting pillows and thick, soft blankets on my bed were waiting. My muscles ached from all the excitement from today, and quite honestly, I felt like I could sleep for about five years.
"As much as I love your peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, I think I'm ready to sleep for as long as possible." Silence fell over us as I bit my lip nervously. "Do you think you could...sleep beside me?"
He swallowed hard, his eyes never leaving my face. After what felt like an eternity, he slowly nodded.
"If that would make you feel safer," he replied. I felt all the tension in my body melt as I gave him a small smile.
"It really would."
He followed me to my room, hovering protectively around me in case I fell. When I was finally changed and settled in bed, he shrugged out of his dress shirt. I caught side of the red blood stain, along with the one-sleeved suit jacket draped over a chair.
I bit my lip as guilt started to build in my gut. "I'm sorry about your shirt...and your jacket...," I said quietly. Tatum shot me a reassuring smile as he stepped out of his pants.
"Lorelai, it's fine. Demarco's gonna drop off a fresh uniform for me in the morning. I've got about ten shirts and jackets just like them at home."
Now fully stripped down to his boxers, I let my eyes roam across his broad chest. I nearly drooled over the way his perfectly sculpted muscles moved as he crawled under the sheets next to me.
He chuckled as he turned on his side to face me.
"This bed is way softer than mine."
I let out a small laugh as I smiled at him.
"Jealous?" I asked.
He shook his head. "Honestly? I always sleep best on a camper bed."
"Oh I remember. You were always like that, even as kids. I don't think I'd ever seen you as happy as that time we went camping under the stars in the backyard of the State Manor."
A soft smile ghosted across his lips as he raised a hand to gently push my hair back behind my ear. I shivered at his gentle touch as his hand dropped to caress my cheek.
"I don't know, I'm pretty happy these days...," he whispered.
My heart swelled and my face flushed at his words. With one quick swoop, I wrapped a hand around the back of his neck and pulled him towards me, closing the distance between us. I pressed my lips hard against his and, for once, there was no hesitation as he arms snaked around me to clutch me to his chest.
One of his arms gripped tightly around my waist while the other hand splayed out across my back as he deepened the kiss so passionately that I almost lost my breath.
"Tatum...," I moaned as his lips traveled down my jawline. His chest rumbled as a low, satisfied growl escaped his throat and I gasped sharply as his hot, wet kisses trailed down my neck while one of his hands slowly slipped beneath my shirt.
His rough hand was searing hot against my skin as he explored my bare back. The second I felt his hand start to slide up my side, I sank deep into my pillow and pulled him closer. He immediately responded, propping himself up on his elbow as he leaned over me.
My heart was beating so hard and fast, it almost hurt, as I tangled my good leg with his and raked my nails down his back.
His head whipped back with a pleasured groan and I immediately seized the opportunity to suck at the pulse point on his neck, nipping lightly at it. I could feel his heart hammering in his chest, his breathing shallow and labored.
"Lorelai...," he muttered huskily. "I...I..."
I trailed a hand down his sculpted abs, relishing in the feeling of his body shuddering under my touch.
"You what, Tatum?" I pressed. I snaked my hand up his chest and into his hair, grabbing a fistful of it roughly. Another low growl sounded from him as he tore himself away from me and leapt out of the bed. I propped myself up on my elbow and furrowed my brows up at him in confusion as he ran a hand through his hair, panting heavily.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have—"
I shook my head. "Don't ever apologize for kissing me," I interjected. He stared at me, chest still heaving.
"But I'm supposed to be protecting you, not getting caught up in all...this. I can't let my guard down, especially not after today."
I reached a hand out to him and he hesitantly took it, letting me pull him back to the bed. He stared at me with obvious restraint as I flashed him a sincere, reassuring smile.
"Trust me, Tatum. I've never felt safer in my life." His shoulders slumped as a small smile slipped onto his lips, his eyes boring into mine.
After a moment, he finally crawled back under the covers and wrapped me back in his tight, warm embrace. "Then I'll be here," he whispered. "Always."
I let out a content sigh as I closed my eyes, feeling his soft kiss against my forehead as I drifted off to sleep in his arms.
The next morning, I happily lounged on the couch as I watched Tatum attempt to make us both some breakfast. I giggled in amusement as he tossed yet another burnt pancake into the trash.
He glanced up at me, a pained look on his face as he asked, "How about some cereal instead?"
As I opened my mouth to respond, the front door slammed open with a loud bang. Tatum instantly jumped to move in front of me, body coiled and ready to pounce. Dionne stomped into the suite, a heavy glare on her face.
"Don't get your taser in a twist," she spat, "It's just me. Where is she? I want a moment with Lorelai." He stepped over to the side, revealing me smiling sheepishly from my spot on the couch. She immediately bolted over and wrapped me in a death-grip hug.
I wheezed at the sudden impact, but waved a concerned Tatum off before returning her tight embrace.
"Thank goodness you're alright! We all heard you were attacked, but security was being so cagey about the details!" As her gaze drifted to the crutch next to me, her eyes widened. "What happened yesterday?! Tell me everything!"
Tatum cleared his throat as he walked over towards Murphy by the door. "We'll let you two talk," he said before closing the door behind them. Dionne quickly settled in the armchair next to me. I took a deep breath, then told her everything that happened at the lake.
She stared at me with wide, horrified eyes. "Lorelai...I can't even imagine how terrifying that was. And it was definitely the same people who've been after you all semester?"
I nodded sadly.
"Even through all the crazy that's happened this semester, I've managed to keep a brave face. But now...I'm genuinely scared. I knew after the whole saddle incident that they were willing to hurt me, but this...this is next level psycho. Even through their masks, I could see how angry they were."
Their masked faces flashed again before my eyes and a cold shiver ran through me.
"What if next time, they don't just threaten to kill me? What if they go after my mom? Someone really has it out for the Peace Summit. And I have a really bad feeling that this isn't the lowest they're willing to stoop..."
Dionne leaned forward to place a sympathetic, comforting hand on my shoulder. "At least your security detail is on high alert now. I'm sure they'll keep you safe." I let out a weary sigh as I nodded.
"You're right. And I trust Tatum—or any of my agents—with my life," I replied. I rubbed my temples as I thought about every single step I'd made that day. At a resort that was so locked down and private, how did they know where I was?
My fingers gently massaged at my bandage absently as I said, "What I don't understand is how they even found me. I wasn't planning to leave the lodge that afternoon, it just sort of happened. I don't think anyone saw me go, and I don't think anyone even knew about that lake—"
My words died on my lips as the memory of an earlier conversation I'd had with a certain someone right before leaving the lodge crash-landed into my brain.
I hear there's a lovely, secluded lake on the property. Might be just the calming setting you need right now.
No way. It couldn't be... She was just a TA! And she'd always been so nice to me this semester, especially after the scandal happened. Blaine's voice suddenly filled my head like a puzzle piece.
I may be an expert at dodging my security detail, but most of the people here on campus aren't. I doubt any student would have been able to dodge the prying eyes of their parents, faculty, bodyguards, and campus security all night.
Then Tatum's...
Which means it was most likely a faculty member.
Even if she was involved in this whole conspiracy, that doesn't mean she'd want me hurt...or dead, right?
Dionne gave me a puzzled look as she lifted a concerned eyebrow at me.
"What is it?" she asked, cutting through the deep silence that had suddenly fallen over us. I looked over at her, suddenly feeling like I was about to puke.
"There was only one person who knew where I was going...," I trailed.
Dionne gasped sharply, her eyes wide. "Then...we know who the traitor is!"
I've been waiting so long to write this chapter. I really felt like they had set up MC's attack to be something huge, and then it completely flopped. A can of red paint? That was it? Are you kidding?
So I wanted to spice it up a bit, but I hope it wasn't too graphic or triggering for you. But I felt a real thriller should have a bit more dire of consequences...so here we are. I hope they were dire enough for you. Don't worry, there's still lots to come!
Until then, stay safe out there.
XOXO
-MusicToMe