CHAPTER ONE: 6 DAYS BEFORE
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.
There's nothing there.
Three words I repeat to myself over and over again as if I say it enough it will make them true. My eyes search the blinding, blanket of whiteness covering everything in sight. Carefully looking at every bare tree as if what I'm searching for has taken shelter behind one of them. It's ridiculous, they're all far too thin now to hide a person or animal for that matter-at least any that would be of concern.
I see nothing other than my breath in the air and a brightness that I'm sure is doing some type of damage to my corneas, but yet I can't move. My knees firmly locked as every muscle from my heel up through my thigh tightens. Fists unconsciously clenching, suddenly thankful for the thin material of the gloves. My chest rising and falling in a perfect rhythm as I feel my heart slowing, the sound in my ears beginning to dull. I'd take this as a good sign, body starting to calm and all, but I remember this type of rhythm. It's the kind that accompanies the hair standing at attention on the back of my neck.
I'm not calming, I'm readying for-something.
The lack of my heartbeat drumming maniacally in my ears allows me to realize the pure silence surrounding me. I look up against better judgement, eyes instinctively squinting at the sun. Bare branches simply bare. It wasn't as though this was the city, there wasn't supposed to be a hundred different sounds every step taken. But, I've ran this trail every day for seven months, and every single morning there were these annoying birds that didn't get the memo to fly south for the winter. There were these annoyingly rambunctious squirrels that ran up and down the branches, occasionally out in front of me. Every once and a while I'd spot a deer off along the way. Hell, even another person or two, a rarity I'd admit but not unseen.
Truth be told, any one of these things missing I wouldn't have cared one bit. Maybe the birds finally flew south. Maybe the squirrels got tired and decided to stay in today, after all they hunted for nuts for a reason. Maybe the deer were off doing whatever the hell deer do, and the people well, who the hell cares where they went. But there's nothing, no one other than me.
Eyes falling down to the trail I've already ran, no sign of footsteps other than mine for as far as my eyes can see. I glance over my shoulder, the snowfall from this morning still waiting for me to disturb it. I look back up, the sky as empty as my surroundings. Then suddenly as if out of nowhere I see birds cutting through the sky coming my way. Just like that the feeling is gone, as if the world had been on pause and someone had just pressed play. I feel my knees unlock as the muscles in my legs slowly relax.
There's nothing there.
I turn back around, slow steps into quicker ones until I've picked back up my original pace. Slowly but surely the hairs on the back of my neck relax so to speak, my fists unclench and the drum like beat of my heart is nothing more than the result of running. The physical signs gone long before the actual sick feeling in the pit of my stomach.
I had forgotten what that was that was like. The amount of fear and anger that fuses together creating this sick feeling in the pit of my stomach that awakens every inch of me. I may be calm now, for the most part but the succubus is awake now.
Shaking my head I try to focus, the running is supposed to help with the hunger. The running is supposed to help with a lot of things actually, and for the most part it does. This though is different, it's not hungry or sexual awake. This is self-preservation awake. The type of awake that turns an everyday jog into a run. My shoes pounding the ground so hard, so fast I almost stumble twice but I just keep going. The harder I run the more I begin to worry, but the faint sound of birds overhead keep me focused. If I hear them then I know it's not like before, whatever it was I felt is gone.
Pace gradually slowing as I come out of the clearing, house coming into sight. It's not until I'm actually up the porch do I stop. Turning back around just as I had in the forest. Yet another portrait worthy scene with nothing sinister lingering in the background, but the birds have seemed to vanish once again. Glancing to my right, nothing more than snow and trees. Attention shifting to the left only to find everything in place, the only oddity that Mrs. Badeaux's yappy, little cockapoo wasn't out running between yards. My eyes running over the far end of our yard, over hers' and into Mr. Faure's, no yappy mutt in sight. Reining in my wandering attention, glancing over her door before looking back out from where I had come.
"There's nothing there." I whisper to myself, counting to three waiting for something to pop out, but there's nothing. "I'm back." The only reply I get is the slight slam of the door, the wind having pulled it from my lax grip. "Babe?" Dropping my jacket on the floor I look up the staircase, waiting for her come walking down, to yell from the bedroom. "Alright." Another mumble to no one other than myself, wandering into the empty living room. It doesn't take but a second to walk right back into the entryway, through the dining room and into the kitchen.
"Can't say you made your best time today." She laughs softly through a yawn, looking up from the newspaper.
"I called for you."
"Did you?" Her attention split between me, the paper and her coffee she continues to hold even though it's resting safely on the table. "I didn't hear you."
"You didn't hear me?" I find myself snapping, walking up to the table unable to keep my eyes from searching the kitchen-for something.
"Bo," She waits until I meet her gaze. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah," I nod. "Sorry, I'm just a little off I guess." Shaking my head I pull out the seat beside her, still unable to shake this uneasy feeling. "Did you notice Yappers isn't out yet?"
"Babe," She laughs, playfully rolling her eyes. "Stop calling her that, she's cute."
"She's cute until she opens her mouth."
"Help yourself." Her eyebrow raising as I steal her coffee. "There's a whole pot you know."
"It's too far."
"It's six steps, at most."
"See," I can't help smiling against the rim of the mug, taking a sip. "Waaaay too far."
"You are getting shameless in your old age."
"Hey!" Unable to keep from laughing, playfully nudging her leg with my own. "Firstly, who are you calling old?"
"And secondly?"
"I've always been shameless." Smirk pulling at the corner of my mouth.
"No argument there." She flashes me that smile, the one that makes the whole world stop for just a second. Standing up, she drops the paper on the table, brow scrunching. "Damn ink, every time."
"Yet, you continue every morning." Laughing as I turn a bit to watch her sort of stomp off to the sink. "You know they do have these fancy new inventions called tablets. They get the news on them, not just from here, but ALL over the world."
"What?" She gasps, looking over her shoulder at me. "Sorcery!"
"Mm," I nod, taking another sip. "Gonna alert the church elders?"
"At once!" She's trying so hard not to laugh as she makes her way back over toward me. "This type of thing cannot be allowed to continue."
"Here I thought you were a woman medicine."
"Oh," She looks down at herself. "Is that what these clothes are about, I thought they were just very comfortable pajamas?"
"Feisty this morning, aren't we?" I can't help laughing softly, setting down the coffee as I reach out with my free hand, grabbing a fistful of her scrub top.
"You were supposed to be back thirty minutes earlier."
"Getting needy in your old age?" I desperately try to keep from laughing yet again, newly free hand slipping under the hem of her shirt.
"Succubus," Her eyebrow raises, this sort of pouty scowl plastered over her face. "See the next time I think about a morning quickie."
"You're thinking about it right now."
"We don't have time."
"We do."
"We don't," Her tone is a bit strong for my liking and had she not taken a step in toward me, I would have let her go. "It's almost time to leave and you aren't even dressed."
"Well, maybe you could help me with that."
"Help you dress, that's new."
"Mm-hm," I nod, unable to keep from smirking as my other hand slips beneath the material to find her skin. "Step one; you undress me."
"Ah, starting to make sense now." This time it's her who nods, biting her bottom lip as her hands find their way to my shoulders. "What's step two?"
"You lose your clothes."
"This sounds a bit counterproductive, but go on."
"Step three is, well, step three is something like," I slip onto my knees, the hardwood sure to leave their mark, but my mind is far to wrapped up in the thought of her. My hands falling just enough to poke my thumbs out from under the material. Fingertips running back up over her skin as her shirt follows, my lips wandering over her stomach earning the softest of moans. Tongue slipping past my lips just enough to graze her skin, tracing her bellybutton to earn another moan. "This." Lips still pressed against her skin, smirking as I look up.
"Bo."
"I'm behaving." Words muffled against her hip as my mouth like my mind begin to venture.
"This is so not behaving." Her hand moving into my hair, causing me to look back up. "We're-." She cut off by the momentarily unrecognized sound of my phone vibrating across something.
"Ignore it." My hands resting on the back of her thighs, playfully biting at the dangling strings of her pants. "Happy thoughts."
"It's been doing that all morning."
"Well if it's waited this long."
"You are impossible succubus."
"Correction," Hands moving to her hips for leverage as I stand. "I'm in love."
"Are you now?"
"Mm-hm." Nodding, hands sliding up to the small of her back pulling her against me.
"After all this time?"
"Mm-hm."
"And with me?" She smiles at the confused look she earns. Leaning in her lips brush against mine pulling a smile from me despite the reappearing sound of my phone.
"Like there could be anyone else."
"Good answer," She gives my lip a little pull after a gentle bite. "Though with the amount of calls I'm beginning to wonder if I have to worry about Theo."
"Oh yes," I can't help chuckling against her lips. Giving her ass a playful slap before maneuvering around her to grab my phone off the counter. "I've taken up your sport."
"My sport?" She glances over at me curiously, as she makes her way to the coffeepot.
"Cradle robbing."
"Two years Bo."
"Still," I smirk, taking a few steps forward, leaning against the sink as I watch her fill her thermos. "Do you have any patients today?"
"Just two," She takes a drink, sort of wiggling her eyebrows. She never could master that perfectly. "But it is flu season, so."
"Look at us, all domesticated and wishing ill-will on our fellow town's people."
"We're all grownup."
"We are." I laugh, eyes wandering from her to the window above the sink. "Hey babe?"
"Hm?"
"Seriously, you haven't heard from Yappy?"
"No, I woke up when you left."
"Of course." I flash a smile, glancing at her. "Did you hear anyone?"
"Hear anyone?" She laughs, coming up to mimic my stance. "Bo, what's going on?"
"Nothing, nothing." Shaking my head, I look back down at my phone. "Just wondering."
"Okay." I hear the uncertainty in her tone, but I don't look up, rather just continue flicking my thumb over the screen. "Well, it's not unusual no one is out yet. Snowed last night so they're probably just waiting until Kenny comes through with the plow." Her fingertips on my wrist, pushing down just enough that she can see the phone better. "Thirteen calls, you think something happened?"
"This is White Lake Falls, nothing ever happens here."
"Other than a flu epidemic."
"Hasn't happened yet." Laugh muffled as she leans in, lips lingering on mine in that way that says everything without needing to say a word.
"A doctor can dream though."
"Moments like these remind me why you aligned with the dark."
"Remind me to bite you for that later." She calls out, a brief silence broken by the sound of the door closing.
"Mentally noted." I whisper to myself, small smile quickly fading as my eyes find their way back to the frosted glass.
Nothing ever happens in White Lake Falls.
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Sheriff's Office-8:06 a.m.
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"What's going on?" Yawn muffling my question, kicking my boots against the floor. Pulling one glove off after the other, walking up to Theo's desk. The office oddly quiet other than his repetitive 'mm-hm' and 'I understand' into the phone. Leaning against the edge, eyes narrowing in on the multipurpose desk. The coffee maker yet to be touched. The radio that was usually playing his country music still off.
"That was Mrs. Wallace, apparently there's something weird happening with her livestock."
"Weird seems to be the theme of this morning."
"You don't know the half of it." Leaning back in his chair as he scoops up a small stack of post-its. "Phone has been ringing nonstop all morning ever since I got in at four-thirty. Livestock acting up. The Johnson's huskies are missing."
"Missing?"
"Yep, just up and vanished. I told her she probably left her fence open again, but she's swearing up and down she didn't."
"She swore up and down last time too."
"That's what I told her. Some kids vandalized the Utic's generator too."
"I'll head out later on to check it out."
"She isn't expecting you till noon."
"Have I mentioned how you're my favorite deputy?"
"Well between me, Alex and Hunter I would sure as hell hope so." He's giving me that look, the one that almost looks exactly like Lauren's. "What's going on with you?"
"Nothing." I shake my head, looking back toward the window. "You ever get that feeling that something is off? Like really off, and you can't shake it?"
"Mm-hm, sure."
"Yeah?"
"Mm-hm, last time I was in 'Bama and got lost. Horrible GPS reception down there in some parts. I saw a sign for a 'Grand Ole Meeting' down a backroad. And my travel companion said it's probably a town meeting, festival of some kind. Great place to ask for directions. We'll be in and out, maybe get a little BBQ."
"Was it?"
"Oh yeah, A Grand Ole Meeting with a nice Grand Wizard too, with some horrible magic tricks if you get what I mean. Ha! Turned right back around so quick I thought my tires were gonna right on off. Now my truck always has a paper map in it too."
"How very Lauren of you." I try not to chuckle, but by the way he's rocking back in his chair and grinning ear to ear I can't help it.
"It's funny now, but then? Boy I was madder than a wet hen."
"I'm guessing that's pretty mad?"
"You have-one minute." He picks up the phone, giving me the opportunity to slip into my office. Not that I'm exactly trying to get away from him, I just can't shake this feeling. This gnawing feeling that keeps pulling at my attention making it impossible to focus. Slipping from my jacket, I toss it over on the couch before plopping into my seat. Eyes running over the walls as if I'm expecting to find something other than dark cream paint. Though now looking, this place could really use a paint job.
'What is it Bo?'
The vibration in my pocket pulling my attention before I have enough time to dwell.
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LO: Hey, just wanted to check in. You seemed a little off the morning. (8:18 a.m.)
ME:So the only reason you text me is cause something seems off? Where is the romance going? (8:18 a.m.)
LO:I don't know, you'd have to ask my girlfriend. (8:19 a.m.)
ME:Oh so you have a girlfriend then? Damn, I was hoping to get your number later. (8:19 a.m.)
LO: ….You do realize you would need to have my number in the first place in order for us to be having this conversation, right? (8:19 a.m.)
ME:Lol. Yes, I caught that thank you. Couldn't let it slide? (8:20 a.m.)
LO:Not a chance my love. If I don't keep you on your toes, who will? (8:20 a.m.)
ME:Well do we mean in general or like with flirting….because if flirting then… (8:21 a.m.)
LO:I hope you know your chance for sexy-times tonight is plummeting. (8:21 a.m.)
ME:Aww. You wouldn't deprive a poor, hungry and adorable succubus, would you? (8:22 a.m.)
LO:You obviously forgot last weekend…Oh yes, I went THERE. Lol. (8:22 a.m.)
ME:That. Is. A. LOW. Blow. Doctor. Lewis. (8:22 a.m.)
LO:Hey, that was your fault. (8:23 a.m.)
ME:It soooooo was NOT. (8:23 a.m.)
LO:It soooooo was. We had this discussion. I won. (8:23 a.m.)
ME:Says who? (8:23 a.m.)
LO:Says me. Who else? (8:24 a.m.)
ME:Ah, so what you say goes? (8:24 a.m.)
LO:Pretty much. Problem? (8:24 a.m.)
ME:Of course not. None at all. (8:25 a.m.)
LO:I would certainly hope so considering you've already committed to forever. (8:25 a.m.)
ME:And no way to get outta that, huh? (8:25 a.m.)
LO: … (8:26 a.m.)
LO:Sense the tone. (8:26 a.m.)
ME:Oh I can hear it, even from here. Lol. (8:27 a.m.)
ME:You know I only kid. Forever isn't an option without you. (8:27 a.m.)
LO:Nice save. (8:28 a.m.)
ME:Awww come on, you know I was only teasing. (8:28 a.m.)
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The sudden sound of a country-rock beat earns a little jump followed by a chuckle. There we go, this is more like normal. Grin turning to a smile as I hear him signing along, the sound of a stomp following. He's dancing. Yep, this is normal. The smell of his unnecessarily strong coffee won't be far behind now. Eyes shifting back down to my phone, finding myself humming along to the song.
.
LO:Really though babe, are you okay? (8:30 a.m.)
ME:Yeah, I'm fine. (8:30 a.m.)
LO:Is there something wrong…..with us? (8:31 a.m.)
ME:What? No. Of course not. (8:31 a.m.)
ME:I just feel off, like something isn't right. And this damn storm has thrown everything off. (8:32 a.m.)
LO:You know the more you want to see something, the more it will stand out. (8:32 a.m.)
ME:Um….is this about how hard I was staring last night….because I completely blame your shirt. (8:32 a.m.)
LO:What? Lol. No. I'm saying that the more you look for something to be off, the more you'll see things that you can perceive as 'off'. (8:33 a.m.)
LO:Though to be fair, you were SERIOUSLY staring. (8:33 a.m.)
ME:I wasn't staring THAT much. (8:33 a.m.)
LO:How did the movie end? (8:34 a.m.)
ME:Um….. (8:34 a.m.)
LO:How did it begin? (8:34 a.m.)
ME:Hey! I watched the beginning….kinda. (8:35 a.m.)
LO:Shameless succubus, shameless. (8:35 a.m.)
ME:Shameless and yours. (8:35 a.m.)
LO:That goes without saying. (8:36 a.m.)
ME:Would be nice to say it once and a while…just saying….. (8:36 a.m.)
LO:Oh stop it. (8:36 a.m.)
ME:I'm being serious. (8:37 a.m.)
LO:No you're not. (8:37 a.m.)
ME:I am actually. (8:37 a.m.)
LO:Oh babe, I'm sorry. I hadn't realized I hadn't been saying it. (8:38 a.m.)
LO:Wait. Is this about me threatening to ban sexy-times tonight? (8:38 a.m.)
ME: ….a little bit, yeah. LOL. (8:39 a.m.)
LO:You are such an ASS. (8:39 a.m.)
ME:You love my ass! (8:39 a.m.)
LO:That is about all I love at this second. (8:40 a.m.)
ME:O.M.G! That's hilarious. (8:40 a.m.)
ME:Very nice. (8:40 a.m.)
LO:Thank you kindly. I have my moments. (8:40 a.m.)
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"Having fun in here?"
"Lauren," I smile up at him, trying to stop laughing. "She's something."
"You don't say," He gives me that half chuckle he does, leaning against the doorframe. I never really saw that whole 'Southern Charm' people mentioned so much, until I met him. "Lookin' happier than a dead pig in the sun."
"Um," Awkward laugh escaping. Charm he might have, but effective communication? Not quite there yet. And if that's coming from me, the succubus notorious for horrible communication skills, that's saying something. "I'm gonna assume that's pretty happy, for some reason."
"Wasn't that obvious?"
"Um, no." I shake my head. "Not really."
"Huh, I just don't understand your lack of sayings up here. Everything has to be so literal. I mean if I came up and said you look so very happy and are smiling to the point it looks painful, that would be awkward."
"But would have eliminated this whole part of the conversation." My eyes shift to my phone, quickly sending a couple of those tongue-sticking-out emoji before dropping it on the desk. "And would have prevented me from trying to figure out why a dead pig in the sun would mean happy."
"Did you want me to tell you?"
"Nope, I'm feeling this is one of those better left as one of those unanswered questions."
"Good choice, especially if you ever plan to watch Babe again." He taps his hands on the doorframe, foot tapping to the song playing in the background as he stares me down. "Mrs. Miller called, something about vandalization of her fence."
"Lauren would make you put five dollars in the jar if she heard that."
"Vandalization is a word."
"It is not!"
"It is. Google that shit."
"Anyway, send Hunter over there."
"Naw, I got it."
"Theo, send Hunter."
"He's on another call already and so is Alex."
"Then I'll go."
"I got this Sheriff."
"Theo-."
"Ma'am, do you know what it's like growing up with a white mama and black daddy in the great state of Mississippi? It's ain't great. That's why the second they died I hightailed my ass up here. Let me tell you, Mississippi ain't high enough on the map for all that northern liberalism to trickle down. Now I appreciate the kindness, but there ain't nothing Mrs. Miller can say that I haven't heard before."
"I didn't mean to insult you."
"No offense taken, I appreciate it. But I stopped running from people like that a long time ago."
"Um, not to be an ass but didn't you just leave four months ago?"
"I was meaning figuratively, leaving literally was just good damn sense. Have you been to the Bible-belt? They hate your kind just as much a mine, you'd have hightailed it too."
"Can't argue there." Soft smile sneaking out, even after all this time I still can't help the little bit of joy that when I hear 'my kind' it's either meaning woman, country folk, or committed to the woman. Anything really other than Fae.
"Oh, almost forgot. This fella came in early, thought it was too early for city folk."
"City folk?"
"Oh yeah. Fancy, metrosexual haircut. Leather. Too much cologne. Trying too hard."
"Did he have a name or-?"
"Dyson I think?"
"Dyson, are you sure?"
"Mm-hm, that's what he said. Come to think of it, he kinda sounded Batman, when he's got the suit on. Bale not Affleck. Said he was gonna be a Shelly's waiting for you."
"Alright, thank you."
I nod, leaning back in my seat. I can feel his eyes on me for a few seconds longer, but he doesn't press this. Hand going for my phone, readying to sound the fire alarm, let Lauren know our little vacation is over. 'Calm down Chicken Little, you don't know anything for sure yet.' When I grab my phone rather than texting her, I shove it in my pocket as I stand.
Here we go.
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Shelly's Diner-9:14 p.m.
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"Hey Sheriff," Shelly greets me with a smile, lifting her coffeepot to me, other hand giving Lester his fill of pancakes. Awkward smile on my face as I nod toward everyone who gives me the head nod and cup raise. "Usual?"
"No, no. I'm not here to eat this morning."
"If you ain't getting your breakfast from me it better be from Lauren otherwise I'm gonna be madder than a mule chewing on bumblebees." She lets out that near obnoxious laugh that only she can make endearing. "Sorry hun, heard that one from Theo this morning and I couldn't pass up a chance to use it. That boy just." She trails off, laughing as she disappears behind the kitchen doors.
I'm used to the small town routine, it was surprisingly easy to slip back into it. Everyone knows your name. Everyone knows your business. Ignore a hello and you might just find yourself ostracized by half the town. I don't have a problem with it. In fact, I've come to enjoy it. But today, right now staring down the back of Dyson's head, it's all so painfully awkward. Just looking at him I suddenly feel out of place.
"Don't think you could have stood out more if you tired." Words making their way through a weak smile, he stands up and pulls me into his arms. For a second I just stand here, limp. I wish I could say it's good to see him, but I know what this means. I know what him being here means for me. For Lauren. For everyone else.
"Bo, you look good."
"Yeah," I nod, looking over myself. Gym shoes for boots, easier to spend the day walking in. Jeans for leather pants. Tight tee over an excuse for a shirt. And a gun in exchange for any numerous sharp, pointy weapons. "Like the new look?"
"It's very you, while not." He takes his seat, causing me to do the same. "You don't have to tell me I look good too, I already know."
"Sense of humor still intact I see."
"Well, it was one of your favorite qualities of mine." His smile so relaxed, eyes moving over me as if we were back in the Dal a few years ago.
"Cut the shit Dyson, we both know why you're here."
"So much for pleasantries." He takes a drink of his coffee. "I wouldn't be here unless I needed to Bo."
"Yeah, I know. I just wasn't done with this life yet." My eyes wander over to the counter, all the regulars laughing with Shelly about something. Technically right now I should be siting over there with them, laughing about something that isn't even that funny. But here I am. "How long do we have?"
"I don't know yet."
"When did you first know, how?"
"I don't know that yet either."
"Okay, well did you at least activate the plan?"
"What plan?"
"The plan."
"Bo, what plan?"
"The plan," Sighing in frustration, leaning forward a bit. "The. Plan. You know, the one we spent months working on for when this day finally came."
"Bo, I thought you said you knew what this was about."
"Jack right?"
"No."
"Then why are you here?" I snap, leaning back in my seat. "We agreed, unless it was about Jack then we were finished. We all went our ways."
"It's a little more complicated than that. I can't handle this on my own."
"Then call Mark or Vex or what was the new girl you're running around with?"
"Kendra, and we're not together anymore."
"Sorry to hear that. I'm sure you have a few more exes to tap though."
"Bo-."
"No, listen to me. We all agreed after what happened. You got the Dal. Mark went on to be Supercop. Vex is doing things I don't want to imagine. Kenz and-they're off living, happily. We vowed IF Jack came back then we'd reassemble, only then."
"What's happening-."
"I don't care. I have a whole town here to worry about. I can't go run off and play detective with you."
"You don't understand."
"I don't," Shaking my head, pausing as Shelly smiles brining me a cup of coffee. "And I don't want to."
"Are they holding you against your will?" He leans in whispering and I can't help but laugh. Theo was right, Dyson really dose do the Batman voice. "Is there something going on here?"
"It's a small town. You're not from here and I'm sitting here whispering with you. This is gossip good enough for the whole week. In fact I'd be surprised if Lauren hasn't already gotten twenty texts that I'm having an affair."
"Charming." He scoots up closer to the table, giving me that serious face he gets. "Bo, this is serious. I need you. The city needs you. Hell, the world needs you."
"Wow. That was probably the cheesiest line you've ever used on me and you use quite a few in bed. Watching a lot of B-moives in your spare time?"
"I need help."
"I'm not the only one who can."
"Maybe not. Maybe I just want you. But Lauren is the only one."
"Oh," I snort a laugh, scooting back. "You got a lot of balls wolf." Standing up, I find him grab my wrist and suddenly everything is silent. All the background chattering and laughter has stopped, all eyes focusing on us. Several of the men standing. "Dyson, I don't know what is wrong with you, but it would be smart to let me go. Small town values. Don't touch women and children. Don't mess with their own."
"I've taken a lot worse."
"Seriously?" My eyes staring into his, there's something different there. "What happened to you? Better yet, I don't want to know. I want you to leave."
"Fine, you want to forget what you swore. Fine. But I will talk to Lauren."
"Leave her out of this."
"I wish I could."
"Sheriff! Come quick!" The ding of the door and the call for me seem to overlap, pulling my attention from Dyson who still hasn't let go of my wrist. "Levy is acting real weird."
"Bo-."
"I have to handle this," Jerking my wrist away as I take a step back. "Stay right here. We aren't done."
Now what? This is turning into the morning from hell complete with my own personal demons and all. The small crowd follows me out onto the street, joining the already scattered crowd. But everyone is staying back down the street, behind me now as I make my way toward Levy whose just standing there in the middle of the road.
"Levy, it's a little early to be drunk bud." My steps strangely cautious, that same reflex from this morning returning. A second nature. Something's wrong. He just stands there, head hanging forward and though his breathing is heavy he isn't moving. The crisp wind howls, a gust strong enough that it feels like a light push but he doesn't even flinch. His bare arms and chest a beat red, but it's like he doesn't even feel it. "Levy, you're scaring the people. Why don't we go inside and we can talk? You want to talk? Where's Miranda, huh? She know you're out here?"
"This is your fault." His words a slurred growl. "Your fault."
"My fault?" Nervous chuckle escaping as my knees lock, just out of arms' reach. "Levy," Eyes running over his arms, down his legs all the way to his boots. "You start working on that old truck of yours again?" Sick feeling swirling in the pit of my stomach. The various blotches over his pants dark and thick. "That's oil you got all over you, isn't it?"
"You bring nothing but death." His slurred growl growing louder as he tilts his head up.
"Oh God." My words involuntary as I find myself staring into an unrecognizable face. His once boyishly handsome features mangled. Blood trickles from his eyes as this foam fills his mouth, dripping down his chin. His chest violently rising and falling, but I don't hear him breathing. It's kind of like when a dog becomes overheated, only without the panting. "It's okay Levy, it's okay. We're gonna get you some help alright? Lauren will be able to fix this right up."
He starts to growl and had I not known he's human, I'd swear he had a bit of wolf in him. His head starts to jerk and this blank look he had is replaced with something different. Something that I can't even describe. Other than the pure feeling of panic that shoots up my spine. One small step after the other I step closer to him, keeping a forced smile on my face. Trembling hands reaching out to his shoulders, his skin like ice. Just relax Bo, it's been a while but you got this. It takes a second but I feel his skin start to warm beneath my touch. See the paleness start to fade as small wave after waves spreads through him.
"That's it buddy, feels much better huh?"
My eyes on his chest watching the violent contractions slow. And then they aren't. Looking up I find myself staring into these cold, dead eyes. Levy's long gone. His palms hit my chest and then I'm on the ground maybe twenty feet away. My head spinning. I hear the collective screams from the crowd the same as I hear his snarling. The foam or spit or whatever it is pouring from his mouth with every snarl. His body wracked with violent spasms. Reminds me of Dyson as he starts to shift.
"Hey! That wasn't nice!" I push myself up, stumbling a bit but it's got his attention back on me. "We can talk about this."
I think he's speaking but all that comes out is incoherent gibberish and snarling growls. He runs at me as I jump back but he stops short. And then again. And again. Option one didn't work, so option two it is. Keeping my eyes locked with his I pull my gun, and he has absolutely no reaction. He's not afraid. He's not scared. He's not even angry. Just violent.
"I don't want to shoot you, back up." I can't even remember the amount of times I've fired a gun. Four or maybe five. Point and aim. Point and aim. "Levy, come on. Don't make me do this."
He starts to run again and I shoot twice at his feet. Stupid Bo. This time he doesn't stop but rather rams his shoulder into my chest, lifting me well off the ground before slamming us down. Stupid Bo. More worried about the fall I drop the gun. Left hand pushing up against his face, hopelessly trying to calm him to the point I feel myself weakening. Right hand reaching out aimlessly for the gun. He shouldn't be this strong. Both hands gripping his face tightly, doing my best to keep him looking at me. Lips parting, pulling chi. But something isn't right. Something isn't right. This sick feeling I've never felt before spreads through me. Vison blurring and I feel my hold weakening. His hands around my throat. I can't breathe.
Fight Bo!
And it's gone.
Gasping for air, head falling to the right I see Theo on the ground. Levy slamming his arms down on his chest. Succubus shit doesn't work, gotta go with the real world. Quickly crawling up my gun, I don't hesitate this time. Two in his side turning him to me. Two more into his chest. I think I missed the heart, dammit, but he falls back.
"Theo, you okay?" Question weak, still gasping for air.
"Yeah. Yeah." He rolls over onto his side, holding his arm.
"Move."
"What?"
"Move!" I yell, on my feet before I have time to realize. Levy's bolting straight up. "You've got to be kidding me." A with a single shot he's on the ground again. Still. My eyes running over his body, up the street to Dyson who's just staring at me as he holsters his gun. He's perfectly calm, as if this is just routine. "What the hell is wrong with you?" I snap, holstering my own gun as I find myself marching over to him. Hands slamming into his chest shoving him back. "What is wrong with you?" Another shove. "What were you going to let him kill me?" And another. "Answer me."
"You needed to see what I came for."
"How far were you going to let it go?" I keep his glare, this isn't the man I knew. "You know what, don't answer that. Theo had my back, I didn't need you."
"Yeah, you looked fine."
"I don't need you to rescue me, I NEVER did. Take whatever mission of yours this is, and get the hell out of my town before I make you."
"Bo-."
"And stay the hell away from Lauren."
My eyes moving from him to the crowd who stay huddled together, further back but watching none the less. And then to Theo whose manage to get himself onto his feet, staring at us.
.
Levy James Residence-11:23 a.m.
.
"This is bad." I mutter to myself, looking into the rearview mirror at my neck which is bruising up nicely.
LO: Answer me or so help me God I will hunt you down. (11:23 a.m.)
ME: I'm fine. I promise. (11:23 a.m.)
LO: You need to come in so I can look at you. (11:23 a.m.)
ME: I can't, not yet. (11:24 a.m.)
LO: Why the hell not? (11:2 a.m.)
ME: Because me and Theo weren't the only victims of Levy. I hope you're ready to work. (11:25 a.m.)
LO: What are you talking about? (11:25 a.m.)
ME: He was on his way to handle a call and driving past he noticed something was off. Miranda and the boys are dead. They'll be coming your way soon. (11:26 a.m.)
LO: Are you sure? (11:27 a.m.)
ME: It may have been a while, but yeah Lauren, I know a dead body when I see one. (11:27 a.m.)
LO: I don't understand. None of this makes sense. (11:28 a.m.)
ME: I know. That's why I need you to be your brilliant self and get me some answers. (11:28 a.m.)
LO: Yeah. I'll get back to it. Come in as soon as you can. I'm serious. (11:29 a.m.)
ME: I will. I promise. (11:29 a.m.)
ME: And listen to me, if Dyson shows up, you run. I'm serious about this. (11:30 a.m.)
LO: I promise. (11:31 a.m.)
ME: Good. I love you. (11:31 a.m.)
.
Sighing in pain I slip out from the car, watching Hunter and Theo finishing loading the three bodies into the back of a van. Technically we're supposed to wait for the proper transportation from the city, but let's face it, no one is better than Lauren. Besides this isn't exactly normal. It's not Fae, but it's not human either.
"I'm gonna drive them to Lauren, besides I need her to take a look at my shoulder."
"Is it okay?"
"I've had worse." His eyes are narrow, and that charm that is almost boyish is missing behind every word. "You coming?"
"Not yet. I'm gonna take a look around."
"Yeah, yeah." He nods, the sound of Hunter slamming the doors pulling at my attention. "You know you may be the sheriff, but I thought we were partners."
"What?"
"I been over for dinner, you and Lauren been over for dinner. We text. We e-mail. We joke. Breakfast just about every morning. Cover for you whenever you need it. I've had your back since day one."
"I know that Theo."
"Then why you lyin' to me?"
"I'm not lying."
"Right. Then why haven't you told me who that guy was or what that was with him on the street? I may be from the south and we have a little reputation for being a little slow on the uptake, but I promise you I don't have that problem. You two, real acquainted and he was real calm for someone who just blew somebody's brains out."
"It's complicated with him."
"Hm, real complicated I bet. And what about the fact that I asked you if you knew what was going on."
"I don't."
"Right, that's why you lookin' real afraid right now. But see the look of fear you got is real different from the one everyone else has right now. You know something. Maybe not everything, but something."
"Theo, it's complicated."
"Partners Bo," He shakes his head, turning his back to me as he heads back towards the van. "Partners."
Dammit.
.
Morgue-5:29 p.m.
.
"Hey I-ooaf." I find myself slammed back into a desk, hands grabbing the ledge to keep from falling over it. My eyes meeting hers, trying not to swallow at the feel of the scalpel pressed against already tender skin. "Hello to you too."
"Jesus Bo." She sighs out in what I think is relief, dropping the scalpel on the desk. "I'm sorry I've just been on edge." Her arms wrapping around me, pulling me into her embrace. Shamelessly I burry my face into the curve of her neck, just taking a much needed moment. "I was so worried about you."
"I know, me too."
"I thought the days of scaring me like this were behind us."
"Oh believe me," Gently I pull back, meeting her gaze. "I did too."
"You need to feed this time." Her fingertips gently grazing against the bruise on my throat. It hurts like hell, but the fact that it's her touch makes it worth it. "We can worry about that later."
"Now."
"Later."
"Bo."
"Lauren."
"I'm serious."
"And so am I. I'm here with you babe, a trained professional in medicine and more importantly me. There's no safer place to be. We can worry about my discomfort later."
"Fine, but I'm serious."
"I know, I know." I nod, walking over to the table where she has Levy laid on. "Did you find anything?"
"Plenty, just nothing conclusive. Every single result that I have managed to get, which isn't much is inconclusive."
"You know you used to be better at this." Smirk fixed on my lips as I glance over my shoulder at her.
"I used to have a lot more than what I have now."
"Ah, so the toys make the doctor?"
"Ha. No. But I can't get you the answers you want from here."
"What can you get me?"
"I can tell you that Miranda and the boys' deaths are simple in the terms that it was blunt force trauma. He beat them to death. I can tell you that as of Tuesday when I did his checkup he was human. I can tell you that he's not now."
"What?"
"I found several anomalies when doing his autopsy and I can tell you he's not human anymore."
"So, he's Fae then?"
"I couldn't tell you."
"Well if not human then what else is left?"
"That is an excellent question my love." She leans back against her desk, arms folded over her chest. "I've never seen something like this. It's frightening honestly. It is almost as if he was evolving and stopped halfway through the process."
"Do you think it's possible someone replicated the formula you created?"
"It's possible as much as I hate to admit it, but if they did, they did something horribly wrong. Taft was flawlessly changed. And Evony to human was flawlessly changed."
"Relax Doctor Lewis, I wasn't doubting your abilities."
"Better not be."
"Doctor Bossy Lewis."
"Well that is my full name." She smiles sadly, looking down to the floor. "Did he tell you why he is here?"
"I wouldn't let him, I don't want to know."
"Bo, if after everything he came here, to us of all people it must be serious."
"If it's not about Jack, I don't want a part in it."
"Bo-."
"Did he get to you? Did he come here?"
"No, he didn't."
"Are you sure?"
"Jesus Bo, lets not do this."
"Agreed." I sigh to myself as she turns her back to me, starting to close the folders on her desk. "Lauren I'm sorry. It's just been a really shitty day. Of all the things to happen today, this won't be one of them. I got a town full of scared people. Theo won't answer my calls. Four of our friends are dead. I got my ass handed to me. And I had to deal with Dyson. I just, I'm sorry."
"I know, this isn't our life anymore." Turning back around, she reaches her hand out which I can't help but to take. "We'll figure it out." Her voice so gentle it's almost a whisper as she pulls me back into her. "It'll all be okay."
.
B/L House-7:09 p.m.
.
"You've got to be kidding me!"
"Bo, don't." She touches my arm as I throw the car into park. "Don't make this worse than it is."
"I told him to leave." I pull my arm away, pushing open the door not bothering to turn the car off. "I told you to leave."
"I can't do that Bo." He stands up from the stairs, brushing his pants off. "Lauren."
"No, you don't talk to her. Not now. Not ever."
"Bo, our neighbors will hear you."
"I don't care," I look back at her for a moment. "You get the hell off of our property and then my town."
"I told you, I can't."
"You don't have a choice."
"I've apologized for what happened." He comes down the steps, walking a little closer so it's not necessary to yell. "And I kept my promise. I haven't tried to see or speak to either one of you since then."
"What do you call this?"
"Fate's cruel joke."
"You two want to fight, I won't be part of this." Lauren sighs, brushing past me.
"Lauren," He says her softly, reaching out for her arm and though I know it's meant to be gentle she jerks back almost stumbling. "You're still afraid of me."
"No." She shakes her head, holding her hand up to me. "It's just been a long day." She avoids his stare waiting for a moment before continuing toward the house. I see the guilt over his face, but I didn't care then and I don't care now.
"She's still afraid of me."
"Don't flatter yourself, she's just tired."
"I wouldn't be here-."
"Unless you needed me. Yeah, I heard you the first thirty-thousand times. But you don't seem to be hearing me. I don't care. Unless you can tell me it's my father behind this, I don't give a shit."
"You can't mean that."
"Why? Why can't I mean that?" I snort, walking back toward the car. "I'm not the only person in the world who can help people. If whatever this is, is as serious as you make it seem then the Light should help you." Leaning in I turn the car off, before slamming the door. "After all, they are your buddies."
"That isn't fair Bo."
"Look, go handle your issues and I'll handle whatever it is you brought here. Think of it as long-distance teamwork if that makes you feel better."
"No one will come without you." His words pull me to a stop halfway to the house. "I tried the others. Kenz. Mark. Vex. Ash. They won't come without you. I tried to handle this. The Fae, both sides, what's left of the leadership anyway is trying everything possible."
"What can I do that they can't?"
"If you have to ask that, then you've forgotten who you are."
"No!" I spin back around to face him, jaw clenching. "I know who I am. I KNOW. I didn't forget anything."
"I did what I thought was right."
"You did what you wanted, just as always. Dyson and his need to be the knight in shining armor for all eternity."
"Th-that's not-."
"Oh but it is. You ALWAYS need to be the knight. You always have to be the hero. Don't think I didn't notice when it happened. You found out Lauren wasn't going to be dying anytime soon and that sent you into brood mode. And you know what gets Dyson out of brood mode? Being the hero."
"That's a lie!" He growls, taking a step toward me and for the first time in a long time I feel my eyes change out of something other than desire. "I would never hurt her intentionally!"
"No, why would you need to when you do it so well unintentionally?"
"You cannot be this selfish!"
"Selfish? I dedicated my life to helping people! I dedicated myself to trying to change the world for the better! I lost family in the good fight! I dedicated everything to it!" I snort, looking away feeling the tears in my eyes. "You know what I got as a reward? I got betrayed! Everything we did was undone! All those lives lost, I have to carry them because of you!"
"You aren't the only one!"
"Maybe not, but I am the only one who felt Lauren's lifeless body in my arms!"
"I—I-I cannot apologize anymore for what happened."
"Good, because I don't want it. I don't want anything from you. We don't want anything from you."
"So fuck the world then?"
"You know what, yeah! I'm over it! I tried and I tried and hey you know what? I tried some more but then-." I'm cut off as something flies in front of me. It takes a second to realize Dyson isn't standing there but rather pinned underneath something. Dyson's growl mixing with the unfamiliar ones from this morning. "You've got to be kidding me!" Stomping over the few feet, hands grabbing our feral friend's head. A strong jerk of my wrist and I hear the snap, letting go to let him deadweight on top of Dyson. "I want you to know," Eyes narrow as he pushes poor Lester off of himself. Extending my hand out toward him. "I hate you."
"You're not exactly my favorite person either." He growls, using my arm to pull himself up. "Friend of yours?"
"He was before," I gesture toward him, sighing. "His name was Lester, he did our taxes."
"Think you might need a new guy then." He says after serval seconds of silence, earning a hard smack to his arm.
"Such an asshole." I groan, starting back towards the house. "Bring Lester, before anyone sees."
"So now we're working together?"
"No, you just may as well make yourself useful."
What happened to nothing happens in White Lake Falls?