Love Struck Eternal
Chapter 26 - Conflicted.
Sam's POV, The next day.
Exercise kept me entertained. Doing push ups in the center of my hotel room, I widened my eyes when I heard my phone start to ring. Upon inspection I saw it was Minky and answered while asking him.
"Am I clear?"
With a calm and respectful tone he replied.
"Yes, you should be good."
He heard me sigh with relief before informing me.
"But don't lower any guard. If I were you I would think about leaving the city for some time. The mob is looking into Cora's death and I have it on good authority to believe that Don Verno may be looking into you."
"And that's a problem? I would think he would be happy no longer having any competition to worry about." I stated.
"You may be right but I'm just being careful. Play it however you want to. Just don't go in blind. The mob is very careful with their business. It's very common for them to go after someone who poses a threat and your a real fucking threat to them now." Minky muttered as I went silent.
"One person. One single person walked into Don Cora's compound and killed everyone there. Why? Well the mob has no clue. There isn't anyone left who knows about your past dealings with Cora so they have to be cautious."
"Do they know it was me who did it?" I asked as I sat down on my bed.
"Most of the mob doesn't deal with the network. So I know for a fact they haven't found out through our agents. However they do have the means to figure it out on their own. Verno runs the city. Cameras are everywhere. He'll figure you out soon enough if he already hasn't. That's why I'm telling you to leave. Take no chances with these men."
I went silent. I just wanted some time to think over my next step or two, but during my silence Minky decided to make a joke.
"Or you know what? Maybe let them find you. Don Verno is worth a lot of money. Him and his men. You already got his attention, so why not just do the same thing you did to Cora to him?"
"Because maybe I'm not trying to go on a killing spree. I have no beef with Verno."
"That doesn't mean anything. You're a killer now Samantha. People are paying attention to you and the last time I checked a killer like you doesn't need any more reason other than money to go after another contract."
"Maybe." I muttered as I again considered the idea.
"Like I said to you before you killed Cora. You don't need the network to go after an open contract. You clearly have what it takes to handle yourself and I'm sure you could figure out a way to make it happen and get out clean. But this isn't my story so I'm not gonna put any more ideas into your head then I already did. For now just take my advice and watch your back. If you need anything you know my number. Give me a call."
"Thank you." I replied as he hung up the line.
Left with the urge once again, I did my best to control myself. Minky was right. I could make Verno happen. It's not like it would be hard. It's just a matter of planning ahead, but I don't want to believe I'm just that cold. I mean…..killing Cora meant something. I had a reason to do it. A real reason. Is money and renown reason enough to justify killing more people who did nothing to me personally?"
That question was the big one. I enjoyed the idea of being a mercenary and making absurd amounts of money doing so, but still I was questioning my inner self and regardless of the answer I had to focus on the things I already had laid out. I'd be back with G.U.N in a matter of days and it was gonna have to take priority. I didn't go through all my training for nothing.
Taking my time to refocus on the matters at hand. I decided it was best to get dressed and text Jari back. I wanted to see him as soon as possible. Just because I didn't want him thinking I was trying to avoid him. So calmly I wrote him a message asking if he was able to meet up someplace local. After a few minutes with no response back he replied.
"Sure. How about lunch?"
Smiling as I finished brushing my teeth, I replied back.
"Do you have a place in mind?"
Quickly he texted back.
"I do. Do you want me to pick you up?"
To be honest I was hoping he would offer. I was feeling kinda lazy so I replied.
"Yeah that would be awesome. I'll send you the address of where I'm staying. Just text me when you're close."
"Gotcha." He replied as I put my address in our chat.
Now what was I gonna do? I contemplated bringing a piece with me just in case Verno or his men decided to stop in on me. I was still convinced Verno wouldn't be aiming to put a bullet in me, but just to be safe I made sure to carry my Luger. I tucked it behind my back just under my shirt and adjusted it around the light vest I was wearing over my bra. Hopefully with enough effort Jari wouldn't notice any of it. If he did? Well I'd bullshit something to the little guy. No need to make a scene after all this time.
As I finished up I looked back at my phone to see it ringing. It was Teddy. My head went blank for a moment. He was one of the few people I felt comfortable talking to after all that has happened, but was I able to answer? I wondered as it continued to ring.
It became too late. The call ended and I was left feeling conflicted. So I just quickly put my phone in my back pocket and did my best to refocus. Letting out a sigh, I checked my outfit and waited till Jari texted me that he was close. Once he did, I gathered my courage and took the walk downstairs.
Jari's POV.
I was so fucking nervous. I felt my heart drop once I spotted the wolf coming outside from the hotel. The first thing my head registered was how beautiful she was. Even after all this time not seeing her; she still made me feel inferior. Thank god Lola wasn't here. She would make this so much more awkward. More than it had to be at least.
Smiling and waving her over as she looked around for my car, I soon caught her attention and felt my body warm up as she smiled back and jogged her way over to the passenger side to get in. All I could say once we were together was hello.
"How have you been? It's been a bit since we last saw each other. You still in college?" She wondered as I got us moving towards the place I wanted to take her for lunch. Doing my best to relax, I replied.
"You know it. Just a few credits away from graduating. I'm excited. How was boot camp? You look…..I mean just look at you. You look amazing."
Sam chuckled and quickly informed me.
"Military training can make anyone look good. I'm just happy it went as well as it did."
"What was it like?" I asked her as I tried to focus on driving.
Sitting back and looking up at the roof she replied.
"Ahhhhh stressful? I mean I signed on for the tough stuff so I wasn't expecting it to be a breeze, but it was sure a trip."
"So you're a soldier now?"
Nodding, she replied.
"It would seem so."
"Wow. God, I have to give it to you. I couldn't do that. I'd be chewed out in a second if I tried to be anything other than a scientist." I muttered as she quickly replied.
"Don't put yourself down like that. Anyone can do it. You just need to believe in yourself a little and put in the effort. And the scores are not set when you're applying. Every species has different goals and from what I heard you rabbits have it easy."
"Really?" I wondered as she smiled back and replied.
"Really. Just have some faith. Now where are we going to eat? I'm starving."
"Oh? Well I was thinking we could go to Oscar's. It's a pizza place near my house. It has some of the best thin crust around. Is that okay for you? Do you even like pizza?"
Giving me a gentle nod she replied.
"I haven't had pizza in years, but I'm down for that."
"Sweet." I muttered as I took a quick look at her body once we stopped at a light.
I must be sick or crazy. Lola would freak if she knew my crush was this girl. Mostly because I think she expected me to find a girl within our own species. She always made jokes that I'd date someone other than us, but a wolf? I can't imagine what she would say.
Sam was just so beautiful. She could rip me apart in a second I'm sure, but something about that made me happy. On the other hand, just our height difference made me nervous. She'd have to bend down just to hug me. Or I guess I could jump. Chuckling to myself at the thought Sam wondered.
"What's up?"
Losing my smile I replied.
"Nothing. Just thinking about stuff."
"Like what?" She then asked as I wondered what to say. The only thing I could think of was this.
"School."
"You working on anything special? I'm just curious what it is you've done."
"Oh nothing too crazy. It's not like I'm being told to find a way to change the world. Normally they just assign us papers to write about existing things in the field, but once in a while I have to do some studies."
"What are you trying to work towards? Anything in particular you want to work on?"
"A question I ask myself all the time." I informed her as we neared the restaurant.
She remained quiet as I got us parked. At first I planned to play off the conversation because I wasn't really sure what to say. I don't really know what I want to do with my talent. However as I unlocked the doors and went to leave; she stopped me by asking.
"You gonna tell me something? Or should I just assume it's too soon to talk about it?"
Going red in my face slightly from being put in a corner, I replied.
"I….it's nothing like that. I just…...I don't know. I haven't really come up with an idea yet. I'm kinda just working for a degree and seeing where life takes me. You know?"
Her eyes showed that she understood. I felt my fears go away when she started to smile.
"I get it. Sorry."
Wanting to defend her actions, I begged her.
"No, don't be. I'm just not really used to talking to anyone about it. It's hard enough with my family and like you already can tell, I'm not good with other people. I've always been to myself. So please don't be upset. Okay?"
Keeping her smile she replied.
"Okay. This the place?"
Looking back outside the car, I replied.
"Yeah. You ready? It's small but it's homey. I come here a lot with my mom and dad when they don't got work."
Now I kept my eyes on her more than I should. I noticed how she was looking at the place. She was judging it. However, I didn't want to say anything. I just wanted to wait till she was ready. After a moment or so she asked me.
"Mom and pop? Looks like a vegetarian place. Everyone inside looks like a herbivore."
I didn't think she was judging it in that way. I thought she was gonna criticize the state or size of it. It barely has enough room inside for a few tables. Yet her concern was lining up with some of mine. I didn't know how the people inside would react to a wolf coming in. Yet again with me at her side. Scratching my right ear I replied.
"It's vegetarian, yes, but you don't have to worry about not enjoying the food. I promise you'll love it. The owners are friends to my family. They treat everyone like such and that most certainly includes anyone I bring with me."
Giving me a small huff and a thin but nervous smile back, she replied.
"Are you sure? I heard that a lot of these places kick carnivores out. Refuse service."
"Not here. The only places that do that are run by big corporations who don't give a shit. I promise you won't be mistreated. Pinky promise even."
I stuck out my right pinky for her to see. Sam for a moment stared at it but soon started to laugh a little. It wasn't long till she took it on her own and informed me.
"You better hope so. I don't wanna cause a scene."
"You? Cause a scene? You don't look like the type who gets off on causing trouble."
"Oh you have no clue little dude." She chuckled back as we let each other go to begin getting out of the car. I jumped in front of her on the approach for the entrance. During which time I begged her.
"Oh and please don't call me little. I get enough names said to me at home."
"I mean you are. You want me to call you something else? How about sparky?"
"Sparky?" I questioned as she chuckled and replied.
"As in energy. You have a shit ton of it when compared to me."
Doing my part to be a gentleman, I got the door for her and replied to her childish remark.
"I might as well be a Labrador retriever then."
"If the shoe fits." She snickered as she smiled her way past me. Shaking my head in disbelief, I refocused and quickly got back out in front to greet Oscar who manned the main counter.
Oscar was a close friend to my father. A Flemish Giant with a round body and two pointy brown ears. The moment he saw me he let out a big happy laugh and shouted.
"Jari, my boy! What a surprise to see you here! Who'd you bring?!"
Looking back as Sam and I stopped in front of the counter. I looked up at her to reply.
"This is Samantha. A friend of mine."
Oscar came out from behind the counter during such a statement to get a good look at her. Now he stood around my own height so he had to look up pretty high. However he smiled nonetheless and offered his hand while stating.
"Pleasure to meet you Samantha. My name is Oscar. It might come as a shock to you but I own this little slice of heaven. Jari and his family have been coming here since I opened back in 2000. I knew him since he was just a kit. What brings a lady such as yourself here with him?"
Taking his hand, she replied without even flinching.
"Well I just got back from basic training a few days ago. I met Jari before I shipped out and I promised I'd make the time to see him once I came back."
Oscar widened his eyes and looked back at me. I knew he was surprised, so I planned my next sentence, but before I could say it Sam said with a very sweet laugh to her voice.
"And from what I've been told by the kit there, apparently you make the best thin crust pizza in Los Angeles. I was curious if I could find out for myself. If that's not a problem of course."
Oscar was swayed. I didn't need to say anything. If I knew anything about him and how he was at his age, Oscar would bend head over heels for a respectful lady. Especially one with her background and even more so if she was with me. Unable to let go of her hand, Oscar began to laugh back.
"It's no problem at all! I accept everyone here for who they are! And Jari speaks the truth. Anyone who eats here would agree that I make the best pizza. Of course we serve only vegetarian options, so I pray that it doesn't bother you."
"Of course not." Sam replied as they finally let each other go.
I was stunned by how well Sam presented herself. She seemed so different but at the same time she convinced me she was nothing but a sweetheart. Even in the face of our differences.
"Take a seat up front here at the counter. I'll get you a menu and you guys just let me know what you want when you figure it out."
"Thank you." Sam replied as Oscar gently put his hand on my back and guided me towards the very end of the counter. During our small walk, he whispered to me.
"You got a strong taste."
Blushing, I replied.
"It's not like that. We're just friends. I swear."
Oscar chuckled and went around now. I just carefully walked back to Sam who had her eyes on a small tv that was up behind the counter. Jumping up in the chair next to her, I listened as what aired appeared to be the local news.
"Latest from the LAPD, the massacre which took place last Monday at Sydney crossing had appeared to have drawn the attention of Mayor Renold Hoss. He spoke today at a local city meeting stating that the death count was around forty seven people. One of which has been identified as Vincent Cora. Or Don Vincent Cora, who managed an in-depth criminal empire here in LA."
"Did you hear about that?" I asked her as she didn't take her eyes off the screen. Going to my menu I added.
"The police think it was one guy who did that. Can you imagine that being true? One dude just walked into that psycho's home and slaughtered everyone who lived there. Including Cora himself? One of the scariest drug pushers in the world? That's so hard to believe. I bet everyone there was armed to the teeth to protect that guy. How can one person do that?" I asked as I slowly looked back at her to see she was now focused on her menu. Giving me no response I asked her.
"You okay?"
"Yeah." She replied as I nodded and wondered.
"What do you want on the pizza? I'll eat whatever, but I want you to pick out whatever you think you'll like. I'm paying by the way, so don't be worried about the price. I got it."
"Ahhhh…..how about spinach, ricotta, and mushroom? I think I can manage that." She informed me nicely enough as I was caught off guard by her quick decision.
"Wow, really?"
"Yeah." She replied as Oscar came over to ask.
"Made up our minds?"
I nodded and told him the dish we had planned. By the time I was done Sam was already back to looking at the news. This time it shifted away from crime and went more into politics. Something I knew very little about, but I could tell she was most certainly into it. She had a look in her eyes that said it all.
"Can I ask you something?" I mumbled to her side. Looking back at me for a moment she replied.
"Sure."
"So I never really asked, but what are you going to be doing in the military? What's your job gonna be?"
Giving me a soft yet serious stare, she replied while running her left hand through her hair.
"I'm with a special tasks group. Originally I signed up for infantry training, but I was pulled pretty early thanks to my scores."
In a near moment I felt my heart skip a beat. I had no idea this girl was serious. With two wide eyes I questioned.
"What? Are you serious?"
"Yeah." She smiled back as I then asked.
"Aren't you scared? Infantry isn't a joke. You're putting your life on the line."
"I know." She replied as I then chuckled and listened as she went on to say.
"I'm worried, don't get anything twisted about that, but I wanted to do this. I didn't join G.U.N to sit back or go to anymore schools. I want to protect the world. Not just myself, but the world and everyone in it. That's what drives me."
"I just can't comprehend it. I'm scared to death of fighting." I mumbled as she quickly interjected.
"I am too."
I wanted to question her again, but at this rate I was starting to feel like a nuisance. So I just sat back and wondered out loud.
"What group are you part of? I know there are a lot these days."
"It's complicated. I guess I don't really have one yet. I just got done training, so I'd like to believe my superiors are still hard at work figuring that out. I gotta go back next week. This is just a leave since I went through thick and thin to see my training done right."
"Oh really?" I was disappointed now. I knew she had to go back sooner or later but I wanted it to be later. I wanted more time. I thought to myself as she looked back up at the tv.
Sam's POV.
The more we talked the more I realized I had to lie or cover up my true intentions. It didn't help that the news was talking all about what I did to Cora. I honestly didn't know how to feel about it, but on par with Cora came my training. I knew my unit, but it was considered classified. It would be easier on both of us if he stayed out of that area of my work.
My nose was picking up on the smells in the building. I could smell our pizza cooking and for a moment I wondered if I should mention one truth to him. It was harmless so I just came out and admitted it as he drank some water that Oscar had delivered us between our conversation.
"Fun fact. My mother was a wolf. My dad? He was a hedgehog. So it shouldn't have surprised you earlier by how fast I made up my mind on this meal."
Jari looked at me back with a look that still resembled said surprise. Just giving him a small chuckle I questioned.
"What? Hehe."
"Nothing. I just didn't think you cared about something like that. The fact that you even paid any attention to my emotions is kinda surprising. You weren't even looking at me when I asked."
"I'm sorry. I'm just a little distracted. I have a lot on my mind. Don't take it personally."
"I'm not." He replied as I smiled and suddenly caught a change in the tv.
"This just in from President Ajex Marano. World war three? It's quite the possibility."
"What?" I muttered as Jari and the rest of the room looked up at the tv.
"Reports have been scarce, but we have just received confirmed reports from the Middle Eastern Armed Forces that around two o'clock yesterday; Middle Eastern president Char Rushmore and multiple other high ranking political middle eastern figures, such as president of Jordan; Issac Mortier, we're assassinated at a long-awaited peace signing in Iran."
I couldn't describe the feelings that washed over me. It felt like someone stabbed me in the heart. My whole body had gone completely still and I was unaware that I stopped breathing. My mouth was agape in shock and I felt my arms begin to shake. This couldn't be true. It had to be a lie. It had to….?
"President Ajex Marano has confirmed the losses with every country that was invited to join the signing. As of this morning the Middle Eastern Armed Forces has announced that former president, Raptor Voltz, has decided to step in for his second and final term to help manage the catastrophic loss. Along with him it appears every other country has since taken action to help fill in the now missing roles in their leadership by assigning either their vice president or another high standing political figurehead. G.U.N President Ajex Marano had this to say from the white house."
The screen quickly cut to the man himself. A sturdy looking white fox. He had to be an arctic. Dressed from head to toe in an elegant blue suit with a G.U.N flag adorned on his heart, the white fox stared into the camera with two blue eyes and announced in a heartbroken tone of voice.
"It pains me to say that the world has suffered a tremendous blow following this massacre. The middle east has been a hotbed for political discussion over the last twenty years and what was supposed to happen yesterday planned to finally absolve any and all disagreements between nations. One of which also included our own nation."
Despite my utter silence and lack for words, I panicked when I felt tears squeeze out from under my eyes. Using my right arm, I wiped my face but kept my attention on Ajex who sighed.
"I do not know who has ruined such a moment in our history, but I am here to set aside any possible problems that could result in another senseless war. A war we do not need nor want. Former president Hecan Moore worked his whole career just to see the world ushered into a new era of cooperation. I know this hurts him deeply to witness. I was supposed to finish his legacy by cementing the treaty. I can no longer do that though. Not till we know why this had to happen. I've discussed this thoroughly with all major nations, including Russia, China, South America, Australia, and all of the middle east. I can confirm that this was an act of terrorism. An act that no country supported. It's safe to assume this was done by a select group of individuals with extensive training and an even more honed sense of order. Who? We do not know yet, but G.U.N and all major nations are working to find out. As soon as more information has come to light we will let you all know. Till then I ask for your support and beg you to offer your condolences to all parties. This is a major step back the world didn't need, but we will persevere and push on. One way or the other. Peace will come. Let us not lose focus. We must bide our time and think. With clear heads and open minds. War is behind us. We must not be sent back to lesser times. God bless all of you."
The screen switched back to the news anchor who went on to state.
"More information will be relayed over the course of time. As soon as we learn more we will be happy to keep you all informed. Till then we here in the states send out our deepest respects towards the lives that were lost. Let us have a moment of silence."
The tv went dark which left me to question reality once again. Char was dead? How? I asked myself as Jari looked over at me to wonder.
"Are you serious? The president of the middle east was killed?"
"I don't know." I replied as I struggled to hide my real emotions.
However I failed. Another tear came out from my eyes and it made Jari look so sad. Reaching over for a nearby napkin, the little guy offered me it while asking.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." I replied as I took the napkin from his hand to start wiping my eyes.
Moving a few inches closer to me, he whispered so as not to draw too much attention.
"It can't be nothing. You're crying. Talk to me. Are you okay?"
I didn't know what to say to him so I think I just got defensive for no other reason. Looking him right in the eyes I replied.
"I'm fine. Just leave it alone. Please."
I could tell he didn't really know what to do. So he just went back to his original position to mumble.
"Okay. I'm sorry. I just…?"
"I know." I replied as we locked eyes one more time before being shoved between a huge pizza that Oscar just rushed out of the oven. Fetching us two plates, he urged us.
"Sorry for the wait. Got distracted by all that news there. Let me know what you think about this Samantha. It's not everyday I get a willing carnivore eating my food."
"Call me Sam." I quickly begged him back which got him to also laugh out loud. Jari smiled somewhat as I tried my hardest to focus on something other than Char. Rushing to grab some pizza; I listened and sat back once I had my slice to hear Jari state.
"Looks awesome."
Shoving the food down my throat to hide more of my breakdown, I asked myself if that was what Teddy was calling me for back when I was at the hotel. If it was…..I don't know how this trip would have turned out if I had found out then. All I knew for sure was that I was broken and longing for more answers. How did this happen? Who knew the truth? I wonder if Roslin could figure it out.
Twig's POV.
"Wanted to see me?" I asked as I entered Verno's office to find him and looking through his phone. Looking up at me he replied.
"Yes. I got a job I need done and I trust you to handle it."
"Sure. What is it?" I wondered as he put his phone down to reply.
"I got a location for the person who shot up Cora's compound. I need you to move on this and make sure it's handled."
"Okay. Who and where?" I asked as he urged me to come over to his desk to view his phone. The moment my one good eye rested on the picture; I knew the name of the target without being told.
"That's her. Camera footage we got from some of my friends in the police force point towards this girl."
I almost couldn't believe it. The girl in question was the same girl who helped me with a lone bank job nearly half a year ago before Remp fucked me and my friends. The more fucked up part about this was that I remember what she said to me about that whole fucking job. She warned me it would go south and I didn't listen. But could she really be the same person who shot up Cora's compound? Did she really kill him and all his men? I couldn't find that to be the case so I looked at Verno to ask.
"Are you sure? She's just a kid."
"This kid killed forty seven men, Twig." Verno looked confused why I even asked that. He noticed how I reacted even after he said that. With some concern he questioned.
"What's wrong? You aren't telling me something. You know this girl?"
Nodding slightly I replied.
"Yeah. Not long before you and I met. We did a small bank job together. She helped me get out clean."
"What's her name?" He asked me next as he stood up from his desk to level himself with me.
"Sam." I replied as he then asked me.
"You think you can get in touch with her? I have a legit location for where she's staying, but you can probably make this real easy on yourself if you could get to her one on one."
Shaking my head I questioned.
"You want me to kill her?"
Looking me right in my face he replied.
"She killed Cora Twig. I can't have her trying that shit on me."
"Why would she?" I asked him seriously as he quickly fired back.
"I don't know, but I can't risk it. I have a daughter to look out for. I need her dealt with."
"Then let me see if I can talk to her. She has to have a reason for what went down."
"No. I'm not leaving this to chance Twig. You have to understand where I'm coming from."
"I do but I know this chick. She's smart. She wouldn't have done something like that without a good reason. Let me talk to her first. Trust me when I tell you that I can handle this. She's not gonna be a problem for you."
Verno's face said it all. He was trying to sense any sort of bullshit that could have been hiding in my statement. But after what I did for his baby girl, I think he trusted my opinion in the end. Looking me back in my eyes he asked.
"Do I have your word?"
"You have my word."
Nodding, he then slowly sat back down and informed me.
"She's staying at a hotel on Masterson boulevard. The Regal."
"Thank you." I whispered back to him out of respect. Nodding his head he begged me.
"Please don't make me regret this. The last thing I want is my daughter getting hurt."
"It's never going to come to that." I informed him back bluntly as I backed up to leave his office. On my first step out I said to him.
"I'll be back once I got something for you."
"Okay. Be careful Twig. I can't lose you either."
It felt warm to hear that from him. I knew I made the right call talking him into this. The last person I wanted to kill was this girl. I had to first hear it from her. I needed to know she did it. I find it hard to believe she's capable of such violence. When I met her she seemed like nothing more than a stupid kid, but if she really did what she did; then I doubt she would be easy to kill. A thought I didn't want to tempt.
Jari's POV, An hour later.
I was stuffed. We ate that whole pizza. I was full after two slices, but Sam somehow ate the other six. Currently she was downing a water bottle and looking straight at the tv listening to the news.
"Vrrr. Vrrr."
I widened my eyes when I suddenly felt my phone go off in my pocket. Sam looked over at me as I took it out to see it was my sister calling. Before answering I looked over at her to go red in the face. Sam just chuckled as I answered.
"Hello?"
Lola quickly asked back.
"Where are you? I thought you were gonna be home an hour ago."
"I know I'm sorry, but Sam got back to me and I….?" She cut me off so fast.
"Enough said! Sorry I interrupted! Get a picture of you two for me! Love you! Bye!"
And just like that she hung up leaving me with Sam who I just noticed was looking at me sideways with a smile.
"She's quite loud."
"Heh…..yeah…..ahhhhh….?"
Reaching over to snag my phone, the wolf urged me.
"Relax. You're lucky you have a sister like her. Here."
"What?" I muttered as she reached over to grab me by the arm. I got red in the face almost instantly as she turned my phone around to urge.
"Smile."
She pressed me right up against her side. A moment later when I smiled my camera went off and she carefully turned the phone over to check the damage. The picture itself looked good, so she smiled again and gently handed me back the phone. Without another word she went back to watching the news. I was left still blushing and when I tried to look around I noticed Oscar giving me a smile and a thumbs up from the kitchen. Again I went red in the face and did my best from there to calm down.
I still didn't know what to feel. Hell most of my thoughts were on Lola who I knew would lose her mind when she saw this picture. What would she say? Would she approve? Jesus, what would my mom or dad say? I want to believe they'd be happy, but I just don't know. With time becoming long, I looked back at Sam to see she still wasn't really looking at me. So with a small smile I made the picture my background and quickly put my phone away. From there I said to her nervously.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome." She replied as I looked over her body very carefully so as not to draw her attention away from the tv.
She was just so much more beautiful than I could describe. Why was I so attracted to someone like this? All my friends used to make fun of me because I'd always stare at wolves. They'd make fun of me and call me names. One of them even described it as a fetish. They said it was basically nature taking over. A prey attracted to it's natural predator. I always thought that to be true in its own form, but my case was different. Maybe it wasn't though.
Running my eyes down her back, I soon stared at her tail. Then out of nowhere my mouth took control over my mind.
"Hey Sam?"
"Hmm?" She mumbled as her head turned to see me facing her.
With butterflies in my stomach I struggled to start.
"Can….can I….can I ask you for permission to do something dumb?"
Her reaction was a quick chuckle back after I asked that. Giving me two interested eyes she replied.
"I guess that depends on what you have in mind."
With my face as red as it could be I said it.
"Can I feel your tail?"
Her face didn't change at all. For a moment she looked like she was caught completely off guard, then she looked back at her own tail to question.
"What? Really?"
I nodded my head really fast. Giving me a small smile, I widened my eyes when she suddenly got a little red in the face to question.
"No one has ever asked me that."
"It'll be really fast." I informed her as she again asked me.
"Why?"
Unable to keep a straight face, I replied in concern for my own well being.
"Because I always wanted to see if wolves had soft fur."
Giving me two full eyes she giggled back.
"Really?"
I just nodded with disappointment. I could barely even look at her, but that all changed when she said with some curiosity to her voice.
"Well I guess it's not a big deal, but…I want to feel your ears."
"What?" My mouth replied as I looked back up at her to listen to her response.
"It's only fair."
My eyes went up to my ears and with a sense of acceptance I replied.
"I mean….okay. I guess you're right. It's only fair."
Sam smiled wide as I suddenly was hit in the face with her tail. I was nearly knocked off the chair as she chuckled and urged me.
"Go on. Don't be shy."
With my arm wrapping around it, I got a feeling for how she felt. It was soft. Really soft. My eyes looked over it's peppered color for more than a few seconds before I suddenly felt a hand rest on my head. With my heart pounding, I looked back up to see her staring right into my soul. The world seemed to slow as she whispered.
"Very soft."
All I could do was laugh to myself as she proceeded to ask me.
"How do you walk around with these things?"
Gently pushing her tail away, I replied while trying my best to not seem overwhelmed by the sudden emotion I had going through my heart.
"Carefully? Hahaha."
She just laughed back as Oscar came over to wonder.
"How was it?"
"Very good." Sam replied as he then asked me.
"How about you, Jari? Do I still make a mean pie?"
Smiling, I replied.
"Very mean."
Smacking his hand on the counter, Oscar then wondered.
"So what else do you two have planned? The day is still young."
I looked back at Sam who calmly replied to my family friend.
"Well I'd love to do more, but I think I should be getting back. I ate a lot so I'm picturing a good night's sleep. But we can hang out tomorrow some more if you want to Jari."
Widening my eyes I shouted.
"Yeah! I'd like that!"
Oscar was just happy to see this all working out so far between us. I felt great. I felt like I accomplished something that was more than just my schoolwork. I mean she wasn't my girlfriend, but this was a start in my head. Sam on the other hand slowly stood up and offered her hand to Oscar while saying.
"Thank you again for the food. I'll have to come again real soon."
Jumping to shake it, Oscar replied.
"Come by any time. It was a pleasure meeting you. Jari? Get her home safe now you hear?"
"Yes sir." I replied as I jumped down from my chair to ask the nearly two foot taller wolf.
"Ready?"
Nodding her head she replied.
"Yeah."
Giving Oscar my goodbyes, we left the restaurant happy and got back on the road in a matter of minutes. Starting the drive back, I decided to ask her.
"Do you really want to get together again?"
"Definitely. This was nice. Thank you again for the good time. I needed the distraction."
"Of course." I replied as I soon had us back at her hotel. Once I got us in park outside the front door, I looked over at her to widen my eyes. She came right in to hug me. For a moment I shook, but I soon found myself hugging her back. Pressed over my shoulder she stated.
"I'll text you in the morning and see where you're at. Stay safe."
Letting me go, I replied.
"You too. Sleep well."
Sam's POV.
Jari left and for what it was worth I was a little bit happier now thanks to him. However my mind shifted back onto my uncle Char. I had to get myself together. I had to cope with this loss.
Walking through the front door to the hotel, I widened my eyes when I heard the receptionist call over to me.
"Oh miss!"
Stopping to look at her, I walked on over and listened as she informed me.
"A gentleman came by for you. I didn't know when you'd be back, but he should still be waiting by the elevator. Seemed nice."
In confusion I questioned.
"What? Who?"
"Twig?" She replied with uncertainty. However I knew the name and instantly began to walk off towards the elevator. That's when I found him. A very familiar lone wolf. He was just leaning up alongside the elevator door with his eyes focused on his phone. Once I entered line of sight he dropped his guard and smiled.
"Sam." He said happily as I took notice of his appearance. Very well dressed. Much like those men at Cora's compound. He also had bandages covering part of his face. Mainly around his right eye. In confusion about his appearance after so long I asked.
"What are you doing here? How did you find me? Why did you find me? I thought you wanted to cut our relationship off after the bank."
"I did." He replied as he came over to where I was standing to say.
"But I'm here now because of my boss."
Giving him a weird look I questioned.
"Who? I thought you were freelance with your friends?"
Twig took a look around and once he did he urged me.
"Let's not talk about this here. You have a room right? Let's go there."
I didn't know what to say. Instead I just guided him into the elevator and up to my room. Once I got the door for him, I ordered.
"So out with it. What's this about?"
Shutting the door behind us, I looked back at the man to listen as he asked me back.
"This is about what you did. Or what my boss seems to think you did. So be straight with me when I ask you this. Did you kill Cora?"
Going behind my back to feel for my gun, I replied to him with some concern to my voice.
"What does that have to do with you?"
Giving me a gentle stare he replied.
"It's been a long time since we last saw each other. A lot of shit has happened for me. For starters I work for a man named Brock Verno. Ring any bells?"
"The other mob guy who runs LA?" I wondered as he nodded and went on to inform me.
"Yeah. Same guy. He knows you were the one who took Cora out. He has your picture."
"So?" I questioned as he went on to reply.
"So he wants you dealt with. He's worried you'll come after him now." Chuckling slightly, I asked him.
"Why would I do that?"
Giving me a serious glare he replied.
"Why would you kill Cora? This shit doesn't make sense to me."
"Cora and I had a small thing going on after I met you. I ran some product for him for a few weeks and in the end he fucked me."
"What do you mean?" Twig replied as I growled out.
"He tried to kill me, Twig. In the end he killed my dog."
"So you just rinsed him and his whole fucking family? In their own fucking compound?" He questioned in disbelief.
Now I was looking this man right in his eye as I took out my gun and replied.
"Yes."
Twig saw the gun and quickly begged me.
"Put that shit away. I'm not here to fuck with you. In fact I'm here because I owe you. You tried to warn me about that bank job I did with my friends. I didn't listen and two of them ended up dead and nearly I."
"Wha happened?" I mumbled as he held strong.
"Our leader was a guy called Remp. He turned on us right after we got away with the money. I nearly died when he shot me in the back."
"What?" I questioned in disbelief.
Twig was clearly opening up. He had emotion behind this and I saw his one eye tearing up. Before any tears could fall; he wiped his face and looked me back in my eyes to nod his head.
"Shit would have been a lot better if I had either just died there and then, or if I would have listened a little to what you said. Either way I wanna try and help you out since you tried to help me help myself. Verno wants me to kill you, but I know you're not a problem. He's just being paranoid as an only father. He doesn't wanna take any chances and I can't blame him, but he also has no reason to personally want you dead. So that means I can talk him off it so long as you help me. Can you listen to what I have to say?"
My eyes never left his. I had to make my own choice and once I did I slowly put my gun away and allowed him to voice his offer.
"Come with me to see him. Tell him what you told me and promise the man it was only business and he should have nothing to fear. The man has gained nearly double his income since Cora was taken out of the picture. Appeal to his good side and I can guarantee he'll let this be."
"He wants me dead and you want me to go right to his compound to beg otherwise?"
"Not beg. Trust me. I won't let anything bad happen to you." Twig promised as he then said.
"It's in your best interest if you plan to stay in this city. Now that he runs everything it won't be safe for you to stay if this isn't settled now. Trust me Sam, you don't want any more enemies."
I was honestly overwhelmed by all this. I didn't want to be bothered after losing Char, but Twig was serious and I knew after losing Mocha that the last thing I should do was focus on being lazy when it came to my life. With my mind getting made, I looked back at Twig to reply.
"Okay. Then let's go handle this now. I don't want to lose anything else in this fucking city."
"Thank you Sam." Twig replied as I nodded and collected my body for another trip outside.
With the sun going down, I followed Twig to his car. Once we got in and on the road he informed me.
"Verno isn't like Cora. Unlike that drug fiend; he's got a sense of humanity. Trust me you're gonna like him once he gets to know you."
"I'm not worried about that." I said back as he quickly asked me.
"How did you do it? I mean you made a big fucking statement by killing that prick and his men. The rest of the mob is quite honestly looking for you. Verno hasn't said anything to any of the other families yet, but I'd be willing to bet it's all the same."
"What do you mean?" I wondered as he went on to say.
"A person who can pull off what you did is a big deal to any family. Men like Don Soul and Don Marxist will want someone like you on their side. Fuck we had a whole meeting about it the day after we found out Cora was taken out. A lot of talk was about killing you first once we found out who did it, but after some thought it became clear that everyone would rather have someone with your skills working on the payroll. Men like Black who works for Marxist as his Underboss are sought after. I wouldn't doubt you'd be offered such a position if you came clean with the other families."
"I'm not looking to work for anyone Twig. What happened between Cora and I was strictly personal."
"I understand, but still. You could. So how'd you do it? You don't look like the same kid who I met back at that bank. What happened to you? You put on weight and a lot of muscle."
Running my hand through my hair to get it out of my eyes, I adjusted my hat and replied to the wolf.
"I joined the military after Cora fucked with me."
"You serious?" He questioned as I nodded and went on to state to him.
"When we met I was just a kid. I didn't know shit about this world, but I knew I wanted that fucker dead for what he did to me. So when I got in I applied all that hate towards learning how to kill. G.U.N has some of the best infantry training on the planet Twig. Once I got through my courses I came back here and planned out every single step towards that assault on his home. I wasn't letting that guy live another day on this planet screwing people who were just as dumb as me. I didn't care what it took. I didn't even care if I died. I just knew Cora wasn't leaving that mansion of his with another god damn smile on his face. He and his men deserved everything they got. George especially."
"So are you sure this had nothing to do with the mob? No intent to harm other families?" He wondered as I looked back at him to reply.
"What happened between Cora and I had nothing to do with anyone other than us. Verno? Marxist? Soul? Pharynx? Skier? It had nothing to do with any of them. I have no beef with the other families. No hate towards any of them. I could care less. This was just personal. Cora made his living ruining lives and when he and George decided to ruin mine; I just snapped. And if you ask me, the world is better off without them."
"No doubt." He mumbled back as we were clearly entering the more high class end of the city. Huge houses on every corner and they got even more massive the deeper we drove. With my emotions calming down, I let out a deep sigh to say.
"My business is with G.U.N. I leave next week to join active service with the users division. I have a future outside this city. I have my own goals and goal one was to make sure Cora got what he deserved. Now that it's done? I'm going out to make a difference. To hopefully live for something more than just myself now that I got focus. That's all. That's my word your hearing Twig. I'm good for that. If I wasn't I'd be just like Cora. A person without humanity. Someone worse than nothing at all."
At this point Twig was silent as we pulled up to a gate. Two men stood outside it who were armed and dressed in orange suits. Looking over at the wolf I asked him.
"This the place?"
"Yeah." He replied as we were let on through.
I took a breath and watched my surroundings as he pulled us up near the front of the main building. It was beautiful and without a doubt the home of Verno. Once the car came to a stop Twig showed me his phone which was currently in the middle of a call. The name was Brock Verno on the ID and with that he said to me while pointing out my window.
"I had to be sure Sam."
In confusion I looked out my window to spot a large red echidna standing out on the front steps with his phone in his hand. His eyes looked at us as he ended the call. Twig had him listening that whole time? I asked myself as I looked back at him one last time. Giving me a small smile he urged.
"Go. I'll catch up with you after."
I didn't know what else to say to him. Instead of thinking I just decided to put on my best face and leave the car. The moment I stepped out Don Verno came down the steps to greet me halfway. Offering me a hand, I took it and shook as he said to me in a voice resembling my father's deep tone.
"You have my respect."
It took more than a moment for me to put this all into place. With Twig moving the car, I was left with this man. A man who looked like nothing more than he described. A worried father.
mT Shadow.