Chapter 17
Part 2 - updated 11/26/2021
Part 1
Months have passed yet not much has changed but it seems that she has. What happened to the one who spent most of her time cooking and cleaning and doing yoga to pass the time? It's good to see her continuing with the training without Amy but what exactly is she thinking of? The way she's hitting the punching bag continuously seems like she's thinking of Holly again. This happened before on numerous occasions. Whatever she was doing, whether it's cooking, cleaning or just sitting in front of the tv, her mind seemed to be somewhere else since she failed to notice she's being watched. Just like now.
"Nadia" Yup, she's thinking of her since there's no reason why she wouldn't have heard. "Nadia!" Calling out loudly is necessary because there is an important call for her.
"Who is it?" Nadia asked, wiping the sweat off her forehead while wondering why Scud is leaving the room until she heard the voice on the other end. "Are you okay? Where are you?"
Am I okay? Would I be calling if I'm not? It's been over 2 months. Why is she still apologizing? "Nadia, listen to me. This is not your fault. Without Holly, I would've been dead a long time ago. Remember?" This should give her one reason to forgive Holly. "You don't need to worry about me. I'm eating well, I sleep well. I'm no longer bored. I gained a few pounds. My six packs are almost gone." Not funny? All right. Let's get to the point. "Did Scud tell you why I want to do this?" Using the word want is deliberate but it's partially true. Letting her know about that moment underwater might just convince her why I want to. "I need you to promise me. Don't let Kristin know. I don't want her to worry about me now. Okay?" The promise didn't come instantly but it did. Scud was right. She needs to hear it from me. As long she hears from me from time to time, she'll stop worrying and stop thinking of telling...
"It's almost time."
Letting Niki listen in is the only way to be allowed to make this call. It seems that she still doesn't understand why the call is necessary. "She's still blaming herself. You happy?" Clearly, she doesn't give a damn. If Holly is here, what would she think? Lucy closed the car door then proceeded to the destination since it's pointless to try to explain why she shouldn't have let Nadia know about Holly's motive. Stupid. Despite that, she came through, surprisingly. Australia may be difficult to get to but not the US. Apparently, the US system still sucks. Apparently, people here in Portland, Maine don't care. The number of covid cases are low here. No covid deaths have been reported but that doesn't mean it's going to stay that way. What's wrong with these people! Thank goodness this is an open area with lots of trees and fresh air and lots of empty benches too. Lincoln Park is a good place to talk.
"On your right, black cap, sunglasses, black mask, blue jeans…"
"okay, got it." God, she's so annoying. Is that even necessary? This is a park. There aren't that many people here, for God sake. "If she finds out, you know she's not going to trust me, right?" She may have gotten smarter this time by not showing herself but she should know no logical reason would explain why I would be wearing a listening device if all I want is to talk.
"sshh, don't talk."
God, she's so stupid. Can't she see I'm wearing a mask? No one knows I'm talking. It's time to take off the hearing device and the sunglasses. Here she comes.
"Xavier?"
"Yes. Hi. Aria?" It's necessary to ask in case she's not. It's time to take the sunglasses and mask off so hopefully, she would too. No? That's fine then. First, thanking her for coming is necessary. Next, provide proof that I do know Brooke which isn't difficult to do with Scud's knowledge in photoshopping. There's no need to tell her the truth though since Brooke didn't talk to her for years according to Brooke's personal assistant. Third, let's hope Brooke gave her the key. "I know this may sound odd but I was wondering if Brooke said anything to you." Just because Brooke's personal assistant said it's not possible doesn't mean she didn't. He didn't know Brooke had a will until he was contacted by a lawyer so it's possible she left her something too besides money.
"We haven't talked for many years."
Really? So he's right after all. "Did she leave you anything?" There's no other way to go around this. Anyone who heard would find this suspicious. Anyone who got a phone call from a stranger especially from a man wouldn't have come alone. That man, standing 10 feet away, could be armed. No doubt, she came because she's curious and unlike others who don't care about the virus, she probably picked this open area for her own safety.
"I'm sorry but what exactly are you looking for?"
I wish I knew. "A hundred dollar bill?...laminated" Okay, those brows are knitting closer together so that means no. "Any…laminated bill?" No? "Anything that's small with numbers or…alphabets? anything out of the ordinary?" Anyone who heard would be confused. Anyone who heard would want to know why. Why wasn't it given it to me? is a very good question. I don't know would be a good answer but it would do nothing. Would she believe "because it's…cursed." Niki is probably saying 'what the hell?' in the car now. Cursed? Well, it's not completely false. "A lot of people died because of it."
"What?"
It is hard to believe but these days, there are a lot of stupids out there believing everything they read and heard. She's obviously not one of them. It's time to try something else. "You mind if I ask when did you…or why did you two stop contacting each other?" No doubt, getting information from her is not going to be easy. She's thinking. She's…
"We're friends. I don't think she would leave me something that is…cursed. So whatever it is that you think I have, I would need more information."
(sigh) Niki is probably thinking of when to kidnap her. That's what she had wanted to do which wouldn't be a good idea now since she would know that it would be me. "I'll buy it from you. Everything she gave you." No price is given so hopefully she doesn't say a million dollars.
"You'll buy it from me?"
"Yes" Her whole face can't be seen but looks like she's offended.
"So…if I say it's worth 10 million dollars, you still want to buy it?"
Oh, she's not offended after all. Only those who are filthy rich would be. "Well, I was hoping you'd say $10,000." Haha. Guess she didn't find that funny. $10,000 is nothing. Brooke probably left her more than that. "$50,000?" 10 mil is too much. She has to know that. Uh oh. It's not workinng. She's standing up.
"You know, the only reason I came was to see if you, do in fact, know Brooke. So far, you haven't said anything about her that proves that. Those pictures, I haven't seen Brooke for many years so I can't tell if that's her. These days, anyone can…"
"Ask me a question." Lucy interrupted, now realizing the pictures did nothing. "I know she was raised by her uncle and she has no siblings." Good enough? No? "She has this small scar here." Lucy pointed to the area near the corner of her own left eye. Can't tell that from the pictures on the phone. "She got that on the subway. There was this fight between a drunk guy and this woman but she wasn't able to avoid it. Somehow she got injured by her." Is that enough proof? It wouldn't be if she doesn't know about that. Looks like she doesn't. "She's smart and funny and …" That's not proof, is it?
"What's her favorite color?"
uhh what?…I don't know. "I never asked. She never told me." That's possible. That doesn't mean we're not friends.
"What's her favorite drink?"
She has one? "I know she loved the movie Titanic." Right. That is stupid. Who doesn't?
"There is…something…on her. What is it?"
What!
"Well then, if you can come up with 10 million dollars, then...call me."
Shoot. It wasn't going to be easy, that's expected. But this, this is unexpected. Niki is probably pissed right now because there she goes with whoever that guy is. Yup, she's pissed…and apparently crazy for suggesting that I should just give her 10 million dollars for something she might not even have. "Give me the phone"
"Why?"
Jesus Christ. "I just need to confirm something."
"Confirm what?"
Seriously? …after everything. "Are you sure she doesn't have a brother-in-law or cousin who's a Fed agent?" That was deliberate to remind her what a big mistake she would have made if she went with her original plan to get someone in Australia to ask Brooke's personal assistant about the key. She would've got nothing but trouble. Using force doesn't work with everybody. Stupid.
"She doesn't."
"Then do you know what Brooke's favorite color is?" Stupid.
"So you think she will give it to you if you know the answer?" Niki scoffed.
She might be right but she should also know Aria is doing what every smart person would do, protect herself. "Let's find out." Lucy said, her hand extended. Maybe Scud knows. Maybe Anthony knows. Maybe…
NY
"Maybe it was someone else. I'll find out...mhm. Not yet. I'll let you know." I can't believe this. Okay. Calm down. Can't assume. She's going to hate me for assuming again. Okay, she's out. Finally. What took her so long? "You okay?" She looks fine but a bathroom break shouldn't take 5 minutes. She's not expecting me to leaving without an answer. Was she? Her attitude is so hard to get used to. "Well?"
"Why?"
Why? Wasn't she listening? Well, that's rude. She's looking at the magazine again like before, not even looking at me. "She needs a bodyguard."
"Why me?"
Oh. "because there's no one else and you're good at it." It may not be the real reason but those are good reasons so what's the death glare for?
"No."
"It's not going to be all day. 3 hours a day, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 3 hours of that. 4 hours of this. I'll set up the time. If you get tired, just let me know." She should know why the change of plans. Looking thru the window to wait for the target to come out is exhausting. It's clear that she must have missed the target since it's been 2 weeks. There is no way anyone would've stayed inside for that long unless they're sick. She should know she can't do this by herself. Taking shifts would work better for everyone.
"No"
Oh my god. Just who do you think you are! Breathe. Calm down. She's doing this on purpose just to make me look incapable. Want me out. That's not happening! "Look, I got you one. She's on her way. I just need you to promise me you will take this job." There she goes, flipping thru another magazine again as if she didn't hear a darn thing I said. It's an easy job so what's the problem? It's not like she's going to be working with a man. It's not like she hasn't done it before. She had no complaints before. In fact, she seems to love it especially when the one she's protecting is a beautiful woman. So why not? Oh. She didn't say no sso... "I'll call her." She should be here by now. Where is she? Why isn't she picking up? Traffic? "Hey, where…what?...oh…you okay?" Ohh this isn't good. Getting someone else at this time is going to be difficult. Lying isn't an option. "She got into a car accident." Clearly, she doesn't care. "Tomorrow. She'll be here tomorrow." Hope she can. Aches and sores usually get worse the day after. What's that look for? What? Oh. What she was looking at is now clear. "You're joking right? Do you have any idea who she is?" She might not because why else would she make such a ridiculous request? Now what is she doing? She's turning the pages. Oh my god. This one is even more absurd. "I don't know who she is. Whoever she is, she's not that type of owww." It doesn't hurt that much. Just not expecting her to throw the magazine in my face like a kid who can't get what she wants. I have had it with you! "If you don't do this, then…stop, don't come any closer. I know you're not sick but we should keep…" Why is she looking at me like that? She's not expecting me to…"wait" A logical person would wait.
"Get out"
"Okay okay, I'm leaving." Better leave before she throws the knife not another magazine. Now what am I going to do? Shoot. I forgot to ask about the body. (sigh) She's going to think I'm incompetent. No boss wants to hear excuses or reasons even if they are logical reasons. What should I do? What should I do? Get her another girl? Maybe two? She would like that. Eight hours left to see who's available. That's plenty of time. Okay. No one is in the hallway. She better open the door. She should know I'm not going to leave until... Oh…good. No need to keep knocking but it looks like she opened it because she wants to go out. "Where you going?" She can go anywhere she wants but first, let's just go inside for a moment. "Did you watch the news today?" I didn't. The boss did. Maybe she did too. One dead body is enough. Now two? "Whyyy?" She didn't say she didn't do it so it must be. "Look, I don't care, okay? But can you please…stop…because if they find anything that…wait" (sigh) No one likes to be told especially her kind. Any threat won't get her to come back. She's as difficult as the others, even more so but others have common sense not like her. She should know she's not going to get paid if…"What the helllll." It's crazy to think that she would but why on earth would she tear off the page from the magazine. Oh my GAWd. She must have found out who she is. She must have found out where she lives. She's going to look for Hans! Is she crazy!
Maine
I'm crazy? Clearly, Anthony is still sick because why else would he say that? He should know I don't have a choice. He should know using force on Niki to find out who she works for not might not solve the situation. Scud understood but couldn't help. Doesn't matter though because seven hours were enough time to come up with the answer to convince Aria. Bringing Ace along didn't seem like a good idea but now does.
"What the hell?"
What the hell is right. It's 10 PM. Why are there so many parked cars here? In this secluded area, with trees surrounded, no one is going to know or care.
"No wonder she wants ten mil"
Ace is right. This place is huge but 10 mil shouldn't be necessary to maintain 1 acre of private property and a private road that's like a mile long. This isn't New York. This is Falmouth, Maine. A place like this cost less than 3 mil. "I think…we should reschedule." Six parked cars means a lot of people and that's a recipe for getting sick. "Hello? You hear me." Either the listening device is not working or we're too far away.
"I'll call her."
"good idea" Lucy rolled her eyes. Obviously, he forgot that I wasn't given a phone.
"what's going on?"
"Alot of people here, she wants to reschedule."
"Just go in there, get it and leave."
With the speaker on, Niki's voice can be heard loud and clear. Why do I even bother because clearly, she hasn't learned from last time. Last time, it wasn't covid but the cold did take more than 2 weeks to go away, hence getting here had to be delayed. She should know getting a good place to stay in matters, a good mattress matters, the food matters, crowds matter. "If I get sick again, it's your fault!"
"fine"
Stupid. Niki is not the only one. "I know it's hard but please, pleeease…remember why I'm disguised. I'm a man just like you. We're both going to die if you keep saying she. Okay?" Okay, looks like he understood where he screwed up. "You still want to go? She's probably going to expect us to take off our masks." He still has a choice. Fake stomach ache, that's all he has to do. Yes? Okay then, let's text her. It's not time yet but she should be expecting us. There's the house but looks like the party is over there. One is standing on the deck against the railing. Two are sitting under the patio umbrella. Oh, we've been spotted. Whoever this guy is, he looks like he came out just for smoking. It is too cold to have an outdoor party. It's not Halloween yet so why is he wearing a disguise? That is a disguise, isn't it? Purple punk-style hair, leather clothing, black eyeshadow, what's he looking at? Us. Why? And here's another one who clearly had too much to drink. Gross.
"She said come on in." Ace said after getting a text.
Okay then. Oh. Another double door inside. This one is guarded by two males with the same black uniform. Whoever they are, it seems that they do care about safety. Taking our temperature might not help that much though. No guns and knives allowed. Makes sense. But holy cow, inside doesn't. The walls are sound proof? There may be six cars outside but it looks like there are about 30 people in here. This isn't a bar but this fancy log cabin has everything a bar has, a stage for a band, bar counter, benches along the walls, round standing tables, more tables and chairs in the far end including private area upstairs. A skylight ceiling? Very nice but isn't it too early for a Halloween party?
"Should we take off our mask?"
"if you want to" It would be hard to blend in even without it when everyone else has a disguise on along with make-up.
"Is that her?"
Lucy turned to the direction where Ace is looking at. It's hard to tell from this crowd of crazies not just because of the dim lighting but because the female dressed as a witch is not the only one staring. "There" Lucy said, looking straight ahead to where Aria is standing. She might be wearing an eye mask but her costume, even though it's all black, stood out from the rest. Besides, she's the only one standing at the top of the stairs. Oh, she's not alone. "Who's he?"
"I think...that's Zorro. He doesn't have the hat but he has the bandana and the mask."
Is he serious? "I meant who is he." Of course he doesn't know but now it's obvious. He's holding her by the waist. He's kissing her. He doesn't look like the guy in the park though. God damn Niki. Told her to get more information first. Now we don't even know who that guy is. Not knowing puts us at a disadvantage. "This is a bad idea. We should leave." Lucy said but was blocked by Ace. "We don't know who they are. You understand?"
"Then find out."
My god. He is stupid. "You know, they could bury us alive in the backyard and no one will ever know."
"Niki knows."
Seriously? Just how stupid is he? "Did you take drugs when you're younger or hit your head cuz you don't seem…" Oh. Who are these babes supposed to be? Long legs, high heel boots, one sleeveless, the other with a cape, both have similar style hooded dark gray outfit looking like huntresses. The other has an opening that's difficult to look away from. Whoever they are, they look sexy even with eye-masks on.
"Hey cutie"
Getting compliments from woman as a man definitely feels different. Clearly, Ace is loving it since he took off his mask when no one asked him to.
"Who are you two supposed to be?"
"oh, we're ah...we're just here to see a friend."
Oh geez. Is there a need to be so honest? "What he meant was we're time travelers. We just came to see what the future is like. We weren't impressed...until now. Now, we don't want to go back." mhm...who doesn't love compliments? They're giggling. It's definitely easier to flirt as a guy. Whoever they are, they sure know what they're doing especially the one with the visible cleavage. She got Ace following all the way across the floor to the bar counter. Drinks aren't free? What kind of party is this? Clearly, he has forgotten the purpose for being here since he bought himself a drink too. Okay. Time to remind him before the bartender comes back with the drink.
"See you later? We would love to see what your time machine looks like."
"okay"
Oh brother. He's so gullible. It's not too late to turn back now but looks like he has no intention in doing so since he's leading the way, walking up the stairs as if he's in charge. All right then, these people don't look like criminals, just people defying state rules to have some fun. Since Aria didn't find it necessary to introduce whoever this guy is, then there's no need to ask. Giving compliments to this place is necessary though, their costumes too. They look like a perfect match, Zorro and Catwoman. She looks great. The costume hugs her perfectly but him, his mustache made him look like a perv. God, what's that smell? cologne? deodorant?
"Want a drink?"
Uhh no. He has to be crazy to think that we would without knowing anything about him. "No, thanks."
"Don't like wine?"
Saying yes would be a lie but this isn't. "not at this hour" It's not that funny so why is he laughing?
"At this hour, I rather be doing something else too."
Huh? Oh. Dirty thoughts. That would explain why Aria is looking at him. Most likely, she found that to be inappropriate too. This would be a good time to get to the point since she didn't. "Is it…here?" She should understand. He should too since she invited us here. Oh. It is here. It's a painting. It's beautiful. Not all abstract art are but this one is. It's colorful, vibrant, eye catchy. Amy would agree. Doesn't look like a splash of paint sloppily thrown onto the canvas, that's for sure. But this can't be the key. It's too big.
"It's not a Rembrandt."
hm? Oh, she's joking. It's clearly not a Rembrandt. They must already have it looked at by an art dealer. I would too. "Is this it?"
"There's another one but I don't think it's what you're looking for."
Another painting? "Can I see it?" It's not too much to ask but looks like she's annoyed.
"Fine. I'll get it."
Oh, she's the Niki-type. It's not here so it must be back in the house. That is a long walk. It might take some time too. It makes sense to put the coat on first since it's going to be cold outside with that costume on. What doesn't make sense is asking us to stay put. Not being allowed inside the house is a good reason. Wanting to get acquainted is also a good reason but why does he want to talk to me alone? This is getting weird. Having Ace here isn't going to help anyway. Signal is given so why isn't he moving? "Why don't you…go outside, have some fun." Now he gets it? Good Lord. With the loud music outside, no one outside is going to be able to hear. The door is now closed. Windows are closed but curtains aren't closed all the way so there's no need to worry. "I didn't catch your name." He should already known mine.
"Zorro"
Haha. That's fine. There will be other ways find out.
"So, how well do you know Aria."
Oh, this is about Aria? Why? "I don't know her. I know her friend." Doesn't he know that?
"hmm, that's what she said."
Oh, he doesn't trust her. Well, that's understandable. Any guy would think that especially a male friend of his girlfriend is more good looking than himself. Some strength training will help; he definitely needs to cut down the wine. Doesn't he know too much can cause belly fat? It's not a beer belly yet but will be if he drinks like this everyday.
"So she didn't tell you about me?"
"Like I said, I'm a friend of her friend. I'm just here to take a look at this, that's all." This should let him know there's no need to worry but it seems that he is. What's the sigh for?
"That's Aria. Keep everything to herself. You know, it's been years, I still don't know what she's thinking."
Oh, relationship issues. "Well, some women are hard to figure out. That's what makes them interesting." Did I say too much? What's that look for?
"You married?"
That's an odd question. Does one have to be married to understand how women think? "No, but I do have a lot of experiences with women." mhm, he's definitely that type. Only one type would laugh at that. A gentleman would not. Experiences don't mean it's sexual.
"You don't look like that type."
Since he asked, then it's only natural to respond with "What type do I look like?" What's so funny?
"How many?"
How mannny…what?…oh. Where in the world did she find this guy? Who talks about this stuff with strangers? It would be rude to not respond. Play along is the only way to find out more about this guy. There's no need to give him a number though. A shrug should let him know what the answer is.
"oh really?"
Why is it so hard to believe? Many ladies think I'm cute, as a man or woman.
"paid doesn't count"
He is a perv. Only one type of man would find that funny, the same type as the orange pervert in the whitehouse. Just because he has doesn't mean others need to. "never" Looks like he doesn't believe me. His sneer shows.
"you have a girl?"
"currently, no" What's so funny?
"Why not? Did she find out you're sleeping around?"
That's not funny. That's rude. Just because I said I had a lot of experiences doesn't mean I'm a cheater. Only one type would say that, the type who has. "no, just not ready to settle down" Why look so surprised? I don't look old. The beard makes me look older but he should know a lot of men aren't ready until they're 50. Most men want to have fun first. He definitely looks like one of them. "What about you? Ready to settle down?" Maybe he doesn't and she does?
"What type are you looking for?"
Ignoring my questions? That's rude but that's fine. The answer is obvious anyway. "I'm looking for...the type that doesn't sleep around" Man, this guy is easy to please. He's laughing again. Maybe too much wine? Sounds like everyone downstairs have too much to drink too. The walls here aren't sound proof. The noise from outside just became louder, not the music but the cheering. He too seems surprised. It is necessary to take a look. What the heck is going on down there? Oh. Whoever those two ladies are, dancing on the tables, must either have too much to drink or they're hired strippers. A Halloween party with just music and booze wouldn't be as fun without these types of ladies.
"What…do you think those two would want?"
Huh? What's that supposed to mean?
"You think you can get them to sleep with you? without paying?"
Oh. It's back to that again. Still think I'm lying. "Sure, but they're not my type." Oddly, he didn't find that funny.
"How about her? behind the bar, the pirate"
Oh, the bartender, a skillful one too. The way she made the cocktail rapidly shows that she is not an amateur. Very nice, even without showing much skin.
"She's not like the others. So what would you do to get her attention?"
Is he asking for advice? That's odd coming from someone who already has a girlfriend. Maybe he wants to see if I was lying about my numerous experiences with women. Well, if he really wants to know, then…"I would first ask her to make a drink that she's never heard of. Tell her how to make it. If she has heard of it, then give her a compliment. If she hasn't, great, then I would tell her where I had it before, a place where not a lot of people know about...like Reyjavik. Get a conversation going, then just wait for the right moment to ask her out." Not impressed? Well, he should know that it would take time if she's not the easy type.
"if she says no?"
"Then give her what she wants." Confused? It's hard to tell with those brows covered.
"she's not that type"
He definitely doesn't get it. "I don't mean money." He must be one insensitive man not to know the answer. "Respect" Get it? Is it so hard to understand? "If she says no, then back off. Wait for another opportunity or create another opportunity but definitely, definitely don't force her." Lucy said jokingly. Amy would definitely have something to say if she heard.
"respect?"
Never heard of it? "Yes respect. I mean, look at her. She must have known how hard it would be, getting hit on by all types of guys, getting inappropriate questions from creeps, complaints from those she rejected, yet she still wants to be a bartender. That deserves respect. I'm sure she'll like…" What the fuck. Staying a few feet away was a good idea but coming up here is definitely a bad one. No knives allowed but a rapier sword is okay? That's a real sword. "Hey man, what's this about?" There's no room to move to except backwards. The painting isn't going to help much but the bottle of wine might.
"Put that down."
Oh, this must be expensive. "You put that down first."
"You arrogant shit. You dare come to my property, sit on my couch, act like nothing's wrong."
"What? There must be a misunderstanding. Please put that down first. You don't want to kill the wrong person!" Talking loudly is deliberate but it seems that Ace isn't waiting outside like he's supposed to.
"I'm not going to kill you. I'm going to stick this up your ass, then I'm going to cut your weenie off."
What! I don't believe this. Why does this keep happening? "Look man, I really, really think you got the wrong guy. Let me explain." Oh thank god. It's not Ace but there's Aria with the painting. There's no need to tell him the truth then.
"What are you doing?"
"You fuckhm. Didn't you?"
"What!"
"Don't lie to me!"
"You're accusing me?"
Oh, this is not good. Everyone hates being accused but this is really not the time to talk about the past. What he did in the past won't justify what he thinks you did even if he is the one who cheated in the past. No man can stand that.
"You were flirting with the bartender! You don't think I noticed!"
"I was talking to her. I didn't fuck her! You shouldn't have let him in here! You broke the rules!"
Okay, it's time to say something. "I really think there's a misunderstanding. I just came…" You asshole. The beautiful painting is ruined. You want it? Here! Take your damn bottle of wine too! Those aren't going to kill him but the time he took to look back up is enough time to...
"ARGHH!"
Oh…she has a taser gun. Yikes, the two probes pierced into his back look more painful than getting stunned by a stun gun. That will hold him down for awhile.
"You…shot me?"
Yes, that is shocking but it seems that she has no regrets, like she had wanted to do this for a very long time.
"c'mon, we have to go. Now." Aria said.
Lucy takes the rapier sword from the floor.
"What? You're going to leave me…for him?"
What a bastard. It's now obvious what type of relationship they have, an abusive one. Most likely, this place solely belongs to him because why else would he say it like that, threatening her like a pimp would.
"Think about what you're doing. Say you're sorry now and I'll forgive you."
Man, he deserves a beating but now isn't a good time. Better get going before anyone else finds...out. Oh shit. Whoever this guy is looks like he heard since he's standing at the end of the stairs. Others are looking as well. Most are still doing their own thing. Pretense isn't going to work since there's no reason why I would be holding the sword. Besides, the two male guards just came in and they definitely look like they have been informed.
"EVERYBODY! COPS ARE COMING! YOU HAVE TO LEAVE NOW!" Why is no one moving? "GET YOUR COKE OUT OF HERE! LEAVE RIGHT NOW IF YOU DON'T WANT TO GET ARRESTED!" Oh, there are lot of criminals here. They're moving. When there's confusion, it's the best time to escape but looks like this one isn't giving up. Oh. What dya know. Ace isn't that useless after all. With one tackle, he knocked him down. Let's go. Let's go before those two gets thru. Taking the back door is a good idea. "Where's your car?" Lucy asked while continuing to run in the same direction as the guests.
"I don't have the keys."
Oh. She may be wearing a jacket but all her belongings must still be in the house. Going back home to pack up would be a very bad idea.
"This way."
What? Oh. Looks like Ace isn't that incompetent after all or maybe Niki could no longer wait at the end of the long private road. As expected, she's pissed because she wasn't expecting Aria. Well too bad. Told her it's a bad idea to go to a stranger's house. Can't blame her for being suspicious of Aria's motive though but why is she still blaming me? Just because it happened again doesn't mean it's my fault. This situation is totally different from the last time. Does she not understand what open relationship means? Open relationships don't work. Most likely, he's the one who wants it. Maybe Aria tried to leave before but realized she couldn't. That happens to many women in an abusive relationship. Only she would know.
Lucy turned to look into the direction where the noise came from like everyone else.
Look at her. No longer as confident as before without the catsuit. With the long brown wavy hair down and the bathrobe on, she looks as fragile as Nadia once was. It must have been hell having to live with a guy like that. She must have gotten to the point where she can no longer stand him. That's what Nadia would have said if she were here. Amy would disagree though. "You hungry?" It is past 11pm. It would be difficult to get takeout now but there are fruits and snacks in the refrigerator. No? Good. Then let's talk. Niki must be dying to know what else she got from Brooke other than the two paintings.
"What's his name? What does he do? Is he going to look for you? Do we need to call the police?" Niki asked without pausing.
Whoa. That's unexpected but those are good questions. This will let Aria know we're not here illegally.
"Don't call the police. They won't be able to help me."
Oh good. Sucks for her though. If the police can't help, then that could mean he has connections.
"Preston Kennedy."
Oh, a Kennedy. A real Kennedy or just a name? He's rich. That's obvious. "He's not crazy. Is he?" What? Why is everyone staring? Apparently, giving them the details of what happened wasn't able to convince them that he can be. "He could've killed me so I want to know if he's that type that would have everyone looking for you? Would he say you've been kidnapped to get the cops looking for you? Does he own this hotel? Does that necklace have a tracker?" Anything is possible. We're still in Maine. Don't they know how crazy people are these days. "Can I see that?" Better be safe. "and the ring" hmm...looks like it's just a diamond ring. "you have anything else on you." Should've asked before. Now may be too late. No? Good. "Check her clothing." Lucy said to Holly.
"What are you looking for?"
"Trackers" Lucy said but later realized she was referring to what Brooke had. Wish I knew. The first painting is damaged. The second one isn't but it's pretty obvious that cannot be it either even though it's smaller. It's not abstract art. It's a painting of two girls holding hands in a field of different types of flowers, looking into the distance towards the sun under the blue sky with only their backs shown. It's a canvas. There can't be anything inside. "Did she give you anything else?"
"It would help if you tell me what it is, why you wanted it."
See, she's not that naive. Everything she did might just be pretense because it just doesn't make sense why she would leave her boyfriend after all these years. Not sure how many but he did say years. It doesn't make sense why he would suddenly accuse me of sleeping with her either. "What are you planning to do now?" They're staring again. Clearly, they have no clue why I changed the topic. "Do you have family or friends who can help you?" No? Well that's odd. Everyone has friends. She doesn't look like that type that doesn't have any. Maybe she doesn't have any that can help. That's possible.
"Brooke was my only family."
Say what now? "I thought you said you're her friend." That's what Brooke's personal assistant said. She didn't deny it either.
"She was. We were very close, like family."
Ohh. How close? friend friend or lovers? Just because she's dating a guy now doesn't mean she wasn't dating Brooke then. Anthony might not know but that doesn't mean it's not possible because how else would she know about Brooke's birthmark? It's possible Brooke told her. It's possible that painting isn't just about friendship. If they were close, "then why did you two stop contacting each other?"
"She didn't tell you?"
What a stupid question. Would I ask if she did? Is she related to Niki?
"What is your relationship with Brooke? just friends or lover?"
Can she read my mind? God, what's wrong with them? Stop staring! She's going to know.
"You're her lover."
"No, I'm just a friend." Never admitted. There's no need for her to know.
"Ssso...as her friend, she didn't tell you what her favorite color is but she told you about her birthmark?"
Niki is staring. Ace and Holly are too. That's because they didn't know how I was able to convince her. Now they know. "Yes. I thought you meant a tattoo. I didn't know what you were referring to but then I remembered. She told me about the birthmark." Believable?
"It would help if you'd be honest with me."
Honest? Well, isn't that funny. For someone who left everything behind and followed a group of strangers to a hotel that is located 1 and half hours away, she wants honesty? Okay. "Let's be honest. Tell me, why did you invite me to your party? You didn't have to tell him about me. Why did you leave me alone with him when you know how jealous he can be? Why did you carry a taser gun? Was that intended for me? Just as I was about to do something, you shot him. Why?" No knives were allowed but those guards were too stupid to think that weapons can't be stored in belts. "So tell me, were you protecting me or him?" Niki should now know she's not the only who thinks Aria is here for another reason other than to escape from her abusive boyfriend. Maybe she wants money now that she has no one to support her. Maybe what she inherited from Brooke wasn't enough. She does look like that type because why else would she be with a guy who wants an open relationship and who clearly has no respect for woman. She certainly doesn't look like the weak type.
"I didn't know."
Didn't know what? Didn't know he's an ass? Didn't know he's a jealous freak?
"Now I know."
Know what? What's that sneer for?
"Now I know why Katya left you."
Say what!
Part 2
Pretending not to know that name didn't work. Requesting Niki for some privacy didn't either but there's no need to have Ace and Holly listen in. In fact, they need to go outside to look out for anything suspicious even if it is past midnight, even if this is a hotel. If she knows that name, then she must know who I am so is she a friend like she said or my enemy?
The explanation didn't take long. There's no need to ask for more details. Besides, everyone is tired. Ace has already gone to sleep like he was told too. Holly, though, hasn't and is looking like she can't wait until tomorrow to find out what happened. Not only her, Niki can't either but why is she blaming me for everything? She was there. She heard what Aria said. She should know it was partly her fault too for not digging deeper into Aria's background. She should know it's partly Ace's fault for screwing up again. All it took was one simple question to trick him in confirming my identity. Ace isn't here now but even if he is, he probably wouldn't even know when he slipped because according to Aria, he was having too much fun with the huntresses to notice the pronoun she used when she asked him if I was still upstairs. So don't blame me. "I didn't tell you because it doesn't change anything. So what if Brooke is not her real name. So what?"
"So what!"
"ssshh" Aria is next door but if she wants her to hear, then go ahead. Say it even louder.
"Katya is a Russian name."
"no shit" Man, she must be stupid to think that I wouldn't know. "It's just a name. She's not Russian." She saw the pictures. Brooke isn't blonde. Brooke looked British with her hazel eyes, light brown hair and very convincing British accent.
"You still don't understand. Do you?"
Well that's another stupid question. "I don't know who you are. I thought I know who you are." Lucy said, looking at Niki first, then Holly. "I don't know how Brooke got the key. I don't know what's in the safe. There are a lot of things I don't know. So enlighten me." No one is talking. They look like they're thinking though. Take as much time as you need. It's time to get out of this disguise and take a shower. They should know keeping it to themselves isn't going to help them because now there are two more people to worry about. Aria didn't sound like she's lying though. Her reason for not contacting Brooke is a good reason. They moved apart. They grew up. That happens to many friendships. That may not be the reason for Brooke though. Aria doesn't know who I am but knows that Brooke had a relationship with a woman. It was a coincidence, she said of that moment in the hotel in Hawaii where she ran into Brooke who had tried to deny the relationship but failed to do so since she saw what I did. A friend would not put her arms around a friend's waist. A friend wouldn't put her hand on a friend's butt in public. Apparently, she saw enough to know what type of person I was and still thinks I am based on what she saw in the party, the arrogant type, the type who flirts with every pretty woman, and the type who would've caused a shitload of problems if she had not intervened. How should I know a conversation about respect would lead him to think that we were having an affair? Sure. Blame it all on me. "This hotel sucks." Good water pressure is hard to get in a 3 star hotel. There's hot water though. As good as the disguise felt, can't have it on all day. Thank goodness it's chilly out. It would be difficult with warmer weather. aahhh. Feels so much better. Short hair is easier to wash and dry. Jesus Christ. They haven't moved? "I'm not sharing a bed." Lucy slipped into the closest queen size bed. There is one more and a sofa bed so they can decide…
"Where's her birthmark?"
Well well, she finally asked. That's just despicable. Does it matter now? "The reason I didn't tell you is because it's private. She may be dead but she wouldn't want anyone to know. That's disrespectful. So stop asking me." Lucy turned off the light before pulling the blanket over her shoulders. Others are still on. They should get the hint. It's time to sleep.
"Does it look like this?"
Lucy opened her eyes since there's no way to avoid her. What the hell. Now sitting up on the bed is necessary. There's no need to turn back on the lights though. What's drawn on the paper is very clear. In fact, it's very familiar. A lot of people have it. Does she know Holly has it? It may have been a long time ago but that night with Holly, the kissing, the touching, seeing her half naked and getting a slap from the megastar afterwards is unforgettable. "Do you have this?"
"Did she have this or not?"
Oh. Now it's obvious they're not friends or lovers. Lovers have it tattooed on their body to represent never ending love but an infinity symbol could also stand for forever to someone or something like an organization. But on the chest? That's sick. "no"
"Then what is it?"
There she goes again. Jesus Christ. "It's not this. It's a birthmark not a tattoo. If you can tell me what you think it is, then I'll tell you if you're right." Get it? She should. Talking about it now isn't going to help. The eyes are tired. The brain is too exhausted to even think about what to do tomorrow but the ears heard what Niki said before she went to the bathroom. How is that possible? Kartiyah, Karteeahh, Katya. It's just a name. She wouldn't lie to me. Niki would. Holly did and is looking like she wants to say something. "What the hell did they do to you?" It seems that she is still unwilling...or maybe she can't.