TW:
Mention of w3éd
Chapter three: Guardian
I sat on the roof.
I had my legs pulled up to my chest, my chin rested on top of my knees as I watched the stars. This was my favorite thing to do during the summer nights. There is something about the stars that made me feel so small, so insignificant – in a good way. It made me feel that all my problems disappeared and the weight on my shoulder lift off. I wished to be among the stars, to be part of the sky and shine as bright as they do.
"Que estas haciendo? (What are you doing?)" My dad asked. He was sitting right next to me. I didn't realize that he was sitting next to me, he never done that this in the past. It was always me out here on the roof while my parents stayed inside the house.
"Mirando las estrellas. (Watching the stars)" I answered.
"Deberias despertarte, ya es hora. (It's time to wake up)" he said. I was confused, "Pero si estoy despierta. Y ademanas, es de noche. (But I am awake. Besides, it's nighttime)" I grabbed my phone to show him the time. He didn't bother to look at the screen. Instead, I touched the screen to check the time. I couldn't find it. Usually when you touched the screen the first thing you see was the big digits in the center.
"No entiendes, hija. Despierta. (You don't understand, hun. Wake up.)" I don't want to wake up though. I just want to stay here and watch the stars. I chose to ignore him and laid down on the roof. I miss feeling the calm. I miss my old home. I miss my room.
I sighed as I watched the night sky. I haven't felt this happy of being here. It's been a while since I last stargaze on the roof. That timeless feeling. Forever young.
"Despierta, (Wake up)" my dad's voice echoed next to me. I shook my head no.
For some reason my shoulder felt sore. I absentmindedly place a hand on my sore spot. As I rubbed my shoulder, I started to feel more soreness spreading out. What happened to me?
Wait.
I'm dreaming.
My dad's voice changed, and I started to remember what happened to me.
Ironhide.
"Is she awake?" A familiar voice asked. My eyes snapped open, greeted with polyester ceiling. My eyes scanned the environment and noted that I was in a tent. I wanted to move my hand when I realized that I was cuffed to the bed. There was a man standing next to my bed with a clipboard in hand, taking notes. He was wearing a white lab coat, his name stitched above his pencil pocket on his chest that read Ratchet. Behind him was my target sitting on a chair watching me, "You got me fucked up." I croaked.
Ratchet looked down at me then at Ironhide, smiling, "I see that you two are well acquainted. How are you feeling?"
"Murderous. Who are you?" I asked, my eyes snapping at him. My throat felt itchy and dry.
"Name is Ratchet, Chief medical officer." He introduced, pulling the board down. "My friend here told me about the incident."
My mouth felt dry. I was really thirsty. I wanted water.
I want to leave.
I pulled on the cuffs, "Why am I cuffed?" I asked. The Doctor turned around and reached for a cup of water, helping me take a sip, "For your own safety." He answered. My safety? It should be Ironhide cuffed, not me! He was the one that jabbed me with a needle! Just remembering it was making me angry by the second. Ratchet kept the cup close to my lips in case I want to drink some more. The way I was laying down was impossible. I tried to sit up and make myself comfortable to sip the remainder.
"We wouldn't be in this positioned if you only answer my question." Ironhide stated as he stared me down like a toddler getting caught for grabbing a cookie from jar. Without thinking I spat water at him. Ratchet gasped, Ironhide growled in anger, and I smiled proudly.
"There's your answer." I told him smugly. Ironhide got up in a flash ready to put his hands on me when Ratchet blocked his path and pushed him out, "Okay, enough."
"Is this how human behave?" Ironhide snapped angrily trying to walk his way around the medical officer.
"Ironhide," Ratchet tried to calm him down. Even though I felt weak, I was able to sit up right, "Only when I get drugged and cuffed like an animal." I answered.
"I only sedated you." Ironhide said, like that would excuse anything.
I glared at him, "Without my consent!"
"You wouldn't cooperate!"
"I'm not the one who sniffed and went Batman mode! 'Where is he?'" I mocked him. Ratchet looked bewildered and stopped for a second, "You sniffed her? You know what, never mind that. Out. Now." He instructed.
Finally, he listened to someone. I waved him bye as he walked out of the tent and flipped him off. When he was completely gone, I let out a long sigh, feeling groggy. It's been a while since I last felt like this; it was from waking up after a smoking session. In my early twenties I went through a phase of smoking weed before bedtime. It would help me go to sleep, however, the morning after I felt extremely groggy and had cottonmouth. Also, I didn't like the fact that I had raccoon eyes too from smoking excessively, the paranoia feeling and overthinking things. I would twitch randomly even though there are times I did feel that I was floating or lost into the song that would play. I couldn't focus on reading a book or watching shows because I would get distracted easily. When Mom found my hidden stash, I never heard the end of it. She was really upset, saying how she did not raise no drug dealer, if I was involved in cartel, that I know better, that I was setting the wrong example for my brother.
I believe that if my mom never found the stash I would probably still be smoking. It was the disappointment look that made me feel shitty and gave it up completely.
"I'm sorry for my friend," Ratchet apologized "He can be, um, hard to deal with at a times." I looked up at him, "You don't need to apologize for him. He is the one that needs to apologize to me." I told him. Ratchet only nodded, I don't know if he agrees with me or not.
"Can you get these cuffs off? Please." I begged. Ratchet shook his head, "I'm afraid not. I was instructed to keep an eye on you."
"Ironhide can't tell you what to do." I told him.
"It wasn't Ironhide. It was Colonel Lennox's order." Colonel Lennox? Does he mean Will Lennox? Who the hell are these people? Where am I? How can Ironhide smell Optimus off from me? What is with the weird names? I felt betrayed that Lennox ordered to have me cuffed to the bed. I thought we were friends. He got the wrong impression from me or maybe Ironhide manipulated him into doing this to me.
"What happened to your hand?" Ratchet pointed at my injured knuckles as he reached for a stool and sat down, leaving space between him and me. "Did you get into physical altercation with the weapon specialist?" he assumed. I wanted to hide my hand away from him. I shook my head no, "If I did, my injuries would be the least of my concern."
Ratchet scoffed, "There are ways to address the situation, but our men tend to take things to the extreme." Ironhide seems the type to shoot first and ask questions later. Who hurt him?
"Can you at least tell me where I am?" I asked.
"Thirty-five miles out from the diner." Well, he is very specific with the distance, that still didn't answer the question as to where I am exactly. The name of the town or city, why are they camped here? How do they know Optimus or how are they related?
Ratchet eyes glowed like Optimus and Ironhide, "You are one of them." It wasn't a question, just an observation. "Autobot." Ratchet nodded in confirmation.
The Doctor wasn't bad looking. He was just as tall and well-built as the men I have met the past couple of days; his dark hair was long from the top and short at the bottom, square jawline, and a comforting smile. He also looks the type that doesn't take shit from anyone either. Someone you don't want to mess with unless you want to feel his wrath. I like him.
"Do you bleed like we do?" I asked out loud. I bit my tongue when the question escaped from my lips. Ratchet nodded, "Energon flows through every part of a Cybertronian's body, much like blood in a human." So that is what Optimus was bleeding: Energon.
"How is it possible to be in human form or alternate form? Does it hurt?" The questions just keep on flowing. The doctor only smirked as I showed interest.
"No, it doesn't hurt. A Cybertronian's mind can be transferred to another body using Cortical Psychic Patch. In fact, it is possible for two minds to occupy the same body!" Oh, he is into science. I wanted to ask what Cortical Psychic Patch is when someone else walked into our tent.
Colonel Lennox. I avoided looking at him and stared somewhere else, keeping my focus away from him.
"Liliana," he said my name. I refused to acknowledge him and crossed my leg over my other one. His ranking tells me that he could've stop Ironhide but didn't do enough. From the corner of my eyes I noticed movements and someone unlocking the cuffs, setting me free. I brought my hands to my lap rubbing my now aching wrists.
"This is not how I wanted things to go." Colonel Lennox confessed. I swung my legs over and sat at the edge of the bed, standing up to face them, more specifically Colonel Lennox, "I want to go home." I looked at him straight in the eyes to let him know that I won't be intimidated.
From behind him I can hear commotion, someone shouting. The closer the voice got the more it started to sound familiar. My heart raced when I heard my mother shouting in Spanish and my brother trying to translate. I glared at Lennox, "You didn't." I said through my gritted teeth.
"We had no choice." He answered unapologetically. I pushed past by him and walked outside the tent, greeted by the chilly wind. I searched for my mom and my brother who were being led by one man who was probably few years younger than me. I ran towards them, catching up to my mom.
"Mama," I grabbed her by the wrist. She was ready to throw hands when she realized that it was me, "Liliana! Quienes son estos hombres? (who are these men?)" there was fear in her eyes.
"Yeah, who are they?" My brother asked, worried. "They just busted in at home, guns pointing at us asking about where is Optimus Prime ?" I can't believe that they had weapons pointing at them. I cupped Danny's face checking for any sings of injuries.
"Did they hurt you? are you hurt?" I asked. Danny pushed my hands away, "I'm fine."
"Liliana, que esta pasando? (What is happening?)" Mom asked again.
I sighed and took a deep breath. Should I tell them the truth? I can feel my hands tingling and cramping up as I thought what to say. I didn't want them to get in trouble because of me. I started to regret this. "It's just a whole misunderstanding, guys. Todo esta bien (Everything is fine.)" I tried to calm them. Or me. My mom just looked at me, not buying it, "Pero porque a nuestro hogar? (Why at our home?) they broke our front door!"
"No se, mama. (I don't know, mom) I'll find out, okay. I'll get us out of this mess." I promised. I noticed that the man with my brother and my mom, his eyes were also glowing. I made connections that glowing eyes are Cybertronians and the ones with the shade of blue are Autobots.
"Liliana," Colonel Lennox finally caught up to us with Ironhide few feet behind him. "It was him that blasted through the front door." Danny whispered, directing at Ironhide.
I walked angrily towards them, "I want him as far away from my family." I pointed at the weapon specialist.
"Liliana, just listen." Colonel asked but I continued to ignore him as I walked towards Ironhide, "How dare you? First you sedate me and now you terrorize my family?" I can feel anger rushing through my veins. I wanted to punch him so bad but it's not worth it. Ironhide looked down at me with scrutiny in his glowing blue eyes.
"I asked you nicely about Optimus Prime whereabouts. You escalated the situation." He answered simply. I scoffed then laughed. I laughed so hard pointing at him, "Get a load of this guy! 'I asked you nicely.'" I imitated his deep voice. I placed a finger on his broad chest, "You did not ask nicely. You were like a dog sniffing at me and angry for no reason. That is not how you approach to people." He grasped my finger in his hand. The moment his hand touched mine, it felt like time briefly stopped for both of us. For that brief second, I forgot what we were arguing about and where I was.
"What Ironhide did is inexcusable. He is sorry." Colonel Lennox said. I quickly moved my hands away from him. I don't want to look at Ironhide. I don't want to hear any excuses anymore. If he was sorry, he would have apologized by now and mean it too.
I closed my eyes, "Where are you taking them?" I asked calmly this time.
"Bumblebee here will take them to the tent down over there," Colonel Lennox pointed down to where couple of tents were set up. "If it makes you feel better, 'Bee will temporarily be guarding them."
"I'll feel better if they stay at home." I grumbled.
"Que dijo el Señor, Liliana?" Mom asked already annoyed and frustrated as she watched us talk. I sighed and walked towards my mom, grabbing her hands in mine "El muchacho, Bumblebee, los va llevar en un encampamento, el los va vigilar que todo este bien mientras estos señores me entrevistan. Yo despues les explico todo. (This guy, Bumblebee, will take you two to a tent where you will wait for me while I'm being interviewed. I'll explain later.)"
Bumblebee seemed like a sweet guy. He kept his distance from my mom and brother while doing his job.
Danny leaned into me, "You do know that you don't have to answer questions without a lawyer, right?"
"I don't think that will apply to them." I told him. "Go on, just followed 'Bee. As soon we are done I'll catch up to you guys." Danny nodded and followed their temporary guardian and mom to their tent.
"Don't worry, they are in good hands." Colonel Lennox tried to assure me. I chose to ignore them as I followed to wherever they were taking me.
This is what happens when I'm being a good person.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Colonel Lennox did most of the talking while Ironhide just kept an eye on me. When we all sat down, Lennox explained who he is and what he does. I learned that Lennox set up N.E.S.T. to create an alliance with human and Autobots defense force against the Decepticons. The acronym for NEST stands for Non-Biological Extraterrestrials Species Treaty. There was a classified Alien/Corporation Act where the Autobots shared intelligence and personnel with the U.S. but not their advanced weaponry. Ever since the battle of Chicago, the government wanted to close down the military organization that Lennox set up. Of course, he did not do it and because they do not have government support anymore, the government started to hunt down all Autobots, hence as to why they are on the run.
Lennox have been knowing the Autobots since 2007 and been fighting by their side since then, however, Cybertronians have been in planet Earth – no matter what faction they are in. Colonel vouched for his friend, Ironhide and the rest of the Autobots team. He nearly talked my ears off, I guess he was trying to gain my trust and show me that there was nothing for me to be afraid of.
After his long introduction, I started to be honest with him. I told him what happened after I left work and where I found Optimus and the condition that he was in. I told them everything from bringing him to my house, treating his injuries, and his departure to look for the seed. I haven't seen him since then nor where he was going. "He only told me that he might know where the seed could be located. I didn't ask him any further questions." I told them truthfully.
My stomach was growling, and my eyes felt heavy. I wanted to eat something, I wanted to take a good shower and take a well deserving nap. I'm ready to take my mom and Danny home.
Ironhide left us alone towards the end of the interview. I leaned back into my seat, stretching my legs forwards and my arms up in the sky. "Was it really necessary to bring my family here?" I asked Lennox.
"It was only for precaution." He answered as he typed on his tablet. I scoffed and rolled my eyes. Precaution for whom? What could my mom threaten them with? A wooden spoon? I mean, it is possible. She has threatened my brother and I with pots and pans before. A wooden spoon is nothing.
Lennox finally finished typing and got up, "Come, I can take you back to your family." I followed him out of the tent where I was interviewed. It was dark already, maybe past midnight. I barely paid attention to my surrounding and now I started to observe everything. There were military men circling around a bonfire, eating, and talking quietly to themselves. There were others working out, going in out of their tents, hell, some were even playing football. No one seemed worried about the seed or the whereabouts of Optimus Prime.
It was cold outside. I shuddered as I massaged my arms to create warmth. This weather had me craving for a cup of hot coffee and some ramen noodles. We finally reached to the tent where Danny and mom stayed temporarily. Bumblebee stood guard outside of the tent, smiled at me when I entered. Lennox stayed behind to talk to him while I checked on my loved ones.
"Liliana," my mom said my name, standing up from her small cot for a bed. Danny joined her side as they made their way to me. I gave them both a hug and apologized, "I'm so sorry guys. I didn't mean to drag you into this."
Mom let go of us, but her hands remained on my arms, "What happened?" she asked for the thousand time. It was time for the truth, maybe I can skip some parts. That's not considered as lying, right?
I licked my lips, "They're looking for their leader. Su nombre es Optimus Prime. (his name is Optimus Prime.)"
"Pero que tiene que ver contigo?" Mom asked, "But what does that have to do with you?" Danny repeated her question in English as if I didn't get it the first time. If I don't tell them everything now, then they won't leave me alone until I spill the beans. Something told me to just give them the rundown for the time being.
"Lily," mom was concerned. I was getting frustrated hearing my name over and over. It's like listening to a broken record and can't get it to stop.
"No se, mom. (I don't know, mom)"
"Como que 'no se'? Lily, lo tragistes a nuestro hogar? (What do you mean, 'I don't know'? Lily, did you bring him to our home?" This time it was her getting frustrated with my vague answers.
"There was a robot at our home?" Danny asked, excitement in his eyes.
I shook my head, "Cybertronians." I corrected him.
"Habia un robot?(there was a robot?) Lily! You know the trouble we can get into!" she was angry now. I raised a finger up to quiet them, "Cybertronians, mama. No son, robots.(They are not robots.)"
"Me vale madre, Lily! (I could care less, Lily!) You know better than this." Instead of having her support, I was only getting bashed by my own mother. "Your father would've been disappointed in you." she added. I flinched.
My mother means well, but when she is frustrated and angry, we all tend to say things that we don't mean. When I do something that she does not approve she always uses that line: my dad would not approve. I tried so hard and yet it is not enough for her. I tried to keep a roof over her head, I tried to keep us alive and safe, I tried to find a stable job to save our home. I have to stay on top of everything and be very patient as I explain things to her because she doesn't fully understand English, so I have to translate some things for her. I try to find the good in life and help others even when they are not from the same planet as we are. And this is what I get? I need to do better, and I try and try. My eyes started to tear up as I felt anger build up in my chest. I wanted to yell at her what more could I do?
I am not the perfect child. My future has been stolen from me, so I had to adapt to this new world. I can't complain because she will compare her childhood with mine and how she had to grow up fast, but she doesn't understand how this life is so different from hers.
Danny noticed my anger. He placed a hand on my shoulder for comfort, "Just tell us what you know."
I nodded, taking a deep breath when I repeated the same story that I told Lennox. The only thing that I left out was bringing Optimus to my room or the seed. I don't want to alarm them about something that may be insignificant. When I was done telling them, mom seemed more calm this time but still disappointed that I helped a Cybertronian. Towards the end she hugged me and my brother tight, "I'm just glad no one is hurt." She confessed.
"Señoritas! (Ladies!)" Lennox walked inside the tent with Bumblebee and of course, Ironhide. "You guys can head home now under one condition; Ironhide will be your guardian until further notice." The Colonel announced.
"Oh hell no," I sneered, "We don't need a 'guardian'. We are more than capable to care for ourselves."
"Due to the situation that we are in, it is best to have one." Lennox suggested. Danny translated to mom what was happening, and I can hear her disagree with Lennox as well. My eyes met Ironhide's deep blue glowing eyes. It's so weird seeing their eyes like that.
"I'd rather chew my arm off than having him near us." I snapped.
"Well start chewing, pup, because I am not going." He replied with a hiss. Lennox turned to meet with his friend.
"I can take Ironhide's place." Bumblebee raised his hand up as he suggested. Bless his heart. Lennox denied his offer, "No, I need you for something else. Ironhide, you're going and that's it." The weapon specialist opened his mouth, but Lennox gave him a stern look, "Don't argue with me. We talked about this already." He reminded the Autobot.
Ironhide glared at his friend when he made the final decision.
"Lennox, we really don't need a guardian. My mom doesn't like having people watching her at all times. We like to move around freely." I told him. Lennox played with the tablet in his hands, "It's either that or stay here." This man is twisting my arm here. I'd rather go home and give Ironhide hell in peace.
"Fine." I finally answered. Mom didn't like it one bit. She came forward, "You going to fix my door." Mom pointed with her chubby fingers at the weapon specialist. Lennox hid his laugh with a cough, Bumblebee chuckled, and Ironhide growled.
"Parece como un perro cuando gruña. (He growls like a dog)." My mother commented with no shame as she walked out of the tent, "Vamos, Ironhide. (Let's go Ironhide.)" And now she is going to treat him like one. I can't with this woman.
The ride home was quiet. Before we claimed our seats, I wanted mom to sit in front with her new pet, but she claimed the back seat with my brother. Daniel seemed excited that he got to meet the Autobots, and I know he had questions. He did ask a couple questions but Ironhide gave him one worded answers, annoyed. I looked back at Danny and mouthed him to wait. Not even ten minutes into the road both mom and my brother knocked out. I noticed how mom clutched on her wrist in pain, her arthritis probably flared up. Sometimes I hate when she keeps things like that away from me, I can't tell when she is pain unless she's clutching her wrists or fingers.
I caught Ironhide watching me watch her, "What?" I half whispered. He didn't answer and focused on driving instead. I stared outside of his tinted window bringing my legs up to my chest and rested my cheeks on the top of my knees. I was still shivering; I was really cold, and this man doesn't bother to at least turn on heater. I watched the landscape blurred in the dark and stared at the night sky. I could see the stars twinkling high above in the sky. I feel that stargazing is an easy way to connect to nature. Just to think how immense the universe is and how insignificant our problems are. My mind feels at ease during this time of chaos. I wish I was among the stars.
After a couple minutes my seat started to feel warm. I looked towards the heater setting I noticed that the seat warmer was turn on. Did he notice that I was cold? Even if he did, he kept his eyes forward and minded his business. I put my legs down and sunk into the seat, welcoming the heat as I continued staring at the sky. My eyes started to feel heavy now. I tried to fight sleep and stay awake. My eyes drifted as I stargazed.
Why is being human the hardest thing to do?
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
I remember so little about last night. I felt so comfortable sleeping during the car ride but once the truck came to a complete stop I automatically woke up. Still groggy and tired I helped mom get out of the back seat while Danny dashed to the main entrance to open the gate for us. The front door to our house was blown into pieces, I just didn't have it in me to see how bad it was. Before I made my way upstairs, I looked for Ironhide and offer him our couch. He was nowhere in sight, and I didn't bother to go outside anymore. He doesn't want to be here, so I won't pressure him into anything.
The following morning, I was woken up by the sound of drills. I glanced at my phone to check the time; 10:53 am. "Fuck," I cussed as I got up in a hurry. I forgot to set the timer to take Danny to school! I tripped over my clothes as I dashed to the bathroom to wash up and came back to my room to change. I grabbed whatever was first available; a pair of jeans and black long sleeve shirt with roses printed on the sleeves. I didn't even bother to look in the mirror and just tied my hair into a messy bun. As I walked out of my room I grabbed my sneakers and rushed downstairs. Mom was in the kitchen making breakfast, "Buenos dias, (good morning)" she greeted with a smile. Why is she so cheerful? I watched her carefully as I tied my shoes.
"Danny!" I shouted. I heard more drilling noises coming from the main entrance and someone moving around the door frame. I completely forgot about Ironhide. How did I miss him when I came downstairs?
Ironhide was wearing a darker shade of jeans with black combat boots, a pair of dark moss shirt that hugged his body frame nicely. His dog tags hung loosely around his neck, shifting around as he moved. There were sweat stains on his chest area, armpit area and the middle of his back. Mom really had him working his ass off. The way he held the frame on the wall, flexing his biceps had me on a chokehold.
My younger self would gag at the sight of sweat. My older self now…Focus!
"Daniel!" I shouted again from the bottom of the stairs.
"He is at school, Lily." Mom said from the kitchen, pouring herself a green drink. "Ironhide lo llevo. (Ironhide took him.)"
I know he can hear us, but he refused to acknowledge us. Fine by me. I walked back to the kitchen and reached for a bowl and a cereal box. Mom talked my ears off by telling me what she told Ironhide how to fix the door and asked if he could make a bench, if he is able to make a bench then she'll forgive him for blasting her door into smithereens. For the first time in a long time we enjoyed our breakfast together. She had a cup of coffee with scrambled eggs talking about her plans for the day and asked about mine. I really had nothing going on other than work in the evening.
Shit, work. I don't even know if I can show my face over there. Tim nor Grace has called to check up on me so I assumed that all was well. Back to normal. It's not like I was gone for a long time.
After breakfast, I went about my day with tidying up my room. After that was done, I went outside to gather some eggs that the hens had laid. I had the chance to go to the barn and noticed that the stuff that I left for Optimus remained untouched which indicated that he hasn't been back since then. I don't think he is going to come back here in general. I feel that it is pointless for Ironhide to be here too. Who is he guarding us from?
Speaking of whom. The dogs were barking and running after the weapon specialist, it was funny watching him trying to swat them away. Our dogs wouldn't budge, they love meeting new strangers. Either way, I stayed out of his way and stayed at the barn. I brought a book with me to read for a while until it was time to pick up Daniel. It has been a while since I last read a good book. I remember growing up, I used to read Twilight series, hush hush, and the fallen. I went through a phase of reading about love, dystopian sceneries, fantasies and of course the most important part: smut. Some days I enjoy reading rom-com, other days I try to read literary but their stories drag. My usual go to is sci-fi/fantasy. Gosh, to be in that world with faes, dragons, knights, royals, and ballrooms. To wear elegant dresses and fighting using swords or magic.
I read to be part of that part world.
I read during noon until it was time to pick up Daniel. I left the barn closing the doors behind me. When I walked back towards the main entrance I was in awe at the finished work. Ironhide put new frames and new door that matched with our white house black trims. When I opened the door to walk inside I noticed the new bench that mom asked for resting by the wall, waiting to be used for coats or bags whenever we walk in.
I made my way to the kitchen to grab my keys, "I'll be back," I shouted so mom could hear me from wherever she was at.
When I opened the door to walk back outside, Ironhide stood at the other side of the door, "It's time to pick up Daniel." He said, as if I didn't know.
"I know," I replied, showing off my keys indicating that I will be the one to pick him up. I noticed that he changed into a new set of clothes; black cargo pants, black fitted t-shirt with his dog tags resting on his chest. Did he go back to the camp to change? He didn't do much with his short light brown hair, just kept a side swoop. Ironhide had the type of hair that made you want to run your fingers in to see how soft it feels, and his stubbled really added his strong character. He was distracting to look at.
I walked down the porch and headed towards my mustang, "Where are you going?" he asked. Didn't he just say that it was time to pick up my brother? I looked back at him, "To pick up my brother…?" I replied. He probably dropped his brain somewhere.
Ironhide rolled his eyes, "I can pick him up." He walked back to his GMC Topkick and open the passenger door. I leaned against my car with my arms wrapped across my chest, "I'm not riding you-" I stopped talking when I realized what I just said. I can feel myself blushing. Did it get hot here or is it just me? "I'm not going to get in that truck. My car works perfectly fine."
"Get in, now." He ordered. Does he think he can boss me around? I glared at him and turned around to unlock my car. "I will carry you again if I have too." My hands froze amid inserting the key. He wouldn't dare, right?
"Might as well get the syringe too now that you are at it." I couldn't help to be a smart ass. From the reflection of my back tinted windows, I can see him fuming. I chuckled and got in my car, turning on the engine.
I thought that I won this battle, but the war had only begun. I would be a dumbass to think that he'll stay at home (and I am a dumbass because I did think that) – but when I left the property, he was following me. He did keep his distance this time and not tailgate me like that one night. I followed the car line to pick up Daniel while he parked across the street waiting for the school to release the students. I usually like coming here twenty minutes before they are being release, it gives me time to read some more. However, this time I couldn't concentrate knowing that Ironhide was watching me. Is he watching me or doing something else?
Finally, the school bell rang, and the cars started to move. Daniel jumped to the front and tossed his school bag at the back of the seat.
"'Hide didn't want to come?" Danny asked. I raised an eyebrow at my brother, "'Hide?" I asked.
Daniel nodded, "Yeah, short for Ironhide."
"You guys got nicknames now?" This is ridiculous.
Danny only shrugged his shoulders like nothing, "Yeah, he's cool."
Oh dear God, he did not just call him cool. What is going on here?
"I – you know what, I'm not even going to say anything. Next time he asks to take you to school, say no." I told him, "Now, buckle up."
We drove back home, talking about his day at school and the plans he was making with his friends for the weekend. I guess there was a movie that they want to check out. Danny noticed that Ironhide was following us. If you could only see the excitement in his eyes had me feeling a little bit bad. There was an actual male in our home that Danny started to look up and I am telling him what and what not to do. Am I being harsh?
I am not going to dwell on it. Danny is fine, we are fine. Everything is fine. When I got home, we all had late lunch (excluding Ironhide), helped my brother with his homework while mom decorated her new bench. I decided to take another quick nap before getting ready to go to work. I still felt exhausted. This time I made sure to set the alarm just in case I sleep in.
I laid on my bed facing the window. From where my bedroom is located and where my window is facing, I could see Ironhide's truck. He was nowhere around his truck, and I couldn't tell if he was inside of it since his windows were polarized. I could see the reflection of the sky, the clouds passing by and birds flying by but not his silhouette. I noticed the heard of hens flocking by and from the corner of my eyes I could see Rita claiming her spot at the hood of the trunk. She nestled where the window and the hood meet. The passenger door open and watched the weapon specialist wave at the hen to move. Rita clucked at him and scooted few spaces down where he can't reach. The look on Ironhide's face made me chuckle, he was so angry that an animal claimed a spot in his truck. He somehow managed to reach for Rita with one hand and gently dropped her down to the ground. Rita flapped her wings and poked at his boot and Ironhide tried to kick her or pretend to. The hen will not go down without a fight. I watched as the Cybertronian fought with a farm animal only to walk back in his truck with frustration as Rita claimed her original spot. As she should.
Rita: 1
Ironhide: 0
The dogs trotted to the truck but didn't go anywhere near it. They laid on the ground, keeping their distance from the beast and themselves. I guess everyone at home are trying to befriend him. Not me though. I know he will be gone soon, and everything will be back to normal.
Watching the dogs nap finally made me sleepy. I managed to get two hours in before I started to get ready. When I woke up, I took a quick shower and wore the same clothes that I had on earlier today. I let my hair air dry naturally and put on deodorant and perfume. This time I only threw on mascara and call it a day. I already look dead; I don't have anyone to impress. I grabbed my phone from my counter and my messenger bag before, turning off the lights on my way out.
Mom was in the living room putting on a pair of boots while Daniel was already changed into a pair of jeans and a plaid. Every evening they get ready to go out and attend our goats and sheeps; they have to clean out every pen and feed them.
"Ya me voy, (I'm leaving)" I announced, making my way to the kitchen to grab my keys. I was confused when I couldn't find them. I started to go crazy as I started to look for them, checking my pockets, key hangers, including dumping my stuff out from my bag. I know I hung them earlier, right?
"Has anyone seen my keys?" I asked, going crazy as I went back up to my room taking two steps at a time. I checked under my bed, my desk even on under the rug. I stood up scratching my head as I started to think what I did with them when I got home. I know I took them off from the key slot after turning off the ignition. Without wanting to my eyes shifted to the window. Ironhide leaned against the front hood of his truck with my keys dangling on his middle finger.
He. Did. Not.
My fists balled as a smirk formed on his lips. I itched to punch his perfect jawline, that would teach him not to mess with my stuff. I stomped my way downstairs and slammed the front door, hearing my mom shouting at me for doing so.
"I'm taking you-"
"Shut up." I snapped at him as I stomped my way to the passenger side and jumped in. I know I was acting like a child. I just don't like how comfortable he was making himself around here. If my family wants his help, then that is fine by me. I only want him away from me. I don't want to socialize with him if I don't have too.
Ironhide took the driver seat and ignited the engine to life. "Buckle up." He instructed. I had my arms wrapped across my chest, glaring at him like a child. Ironhide didn't waste a second when he leaned over, reaching for the belt and buckled me up. He grabbed the belt that rests on the chest and pulled on it so the belt on my waist was snug and tight. I suddenly felt that butterfly feeling on my stomach when his fingers brushed against my arms. We locked eyes; the way his deep blue eyes glowed lightly. I couldn't help but to look at his lips, my breath suddenly hitched.
I – SNAP OUT OF IT! I shut my eyes tight and turned away, concentrating on my breathing and smash those butterflies in my stomach.
The truck started to move, taking me to work. The whole entire ride we stayed quiet. I didn't want to initiate a conversation and Ironhide doesn't seem the type to keep the conversation going either. The atmosphere felt awkward, it reminded me of my dad. We had a simple conversation about our day, but I didn't tell him everything because he would somehow turn it into a lecture. Ironhide seem the type to do that too.
The seat was warm and toasty though, I could thank him for that. Or maybe that is just how the seat setting is, I thought to myself. It couldn't be his doing. I bit my lower lip to keep quiet. I rested my head on the leather seat and stared at the sideview mirrors, watching the sunset in the background.
Ironhide finally pulled up to the diner. "I won't be off until three. You can go back home." I told him, grabbing my messenger bag. I completely forgot my apron in my car, I'll have to get a new one from Grace.
"That won't be necessary," Ironhide said. I placed a hand on my hip as my other hand held the heavy door, "what about Danny and mom?" I asked. Shouldn't he be guarding them too? I'll be fine here since I am with my co-workers. I don't think another big bad wolf would burst in here and drag me out.
"We got the Scout over until we come back."
"The Scout?" I asked, confused.
"Bumblebee." The way he said it – like I am supposed to know everyone position.
"Whatever," I rolled my eyes, closing the door behind me.
Sighing, I reached for the diner's door and walked inside with a fake smile. The cookers peeked through the sill where we pick up orders. I waved hi at them but they just looked at me confused. I went over the counter and threw my messenger under and reached for an apron. I heard a door close and noticed Grace coming out from Tim's office. I started to grab my hair and tied it up into a messy bun.
"Hey, Grace." I smiled, happy to see a familiar face. My manager didn't smile back. If anything, she looked a little nervous and sad as she made her way to me.
"Liliana," she stood in front of me, "I'm sorry to say this but I have to let you go."
Suddenly I started to feel nauseous. I'm hearing things, right? I laughed, waiting for her to say psyche or it's just a joke. She was serious.
"W-why?" I asked, even though we both know why. Grace looked at the window where Ironhide remained parked across the street.
Because of him.
"It's only temporary," I explained, "I know what happened is not excusable – it's a complete misunderstanding." Grace placed a warm hand on my forearm, "I'm sorry." She repeated.
I clenched my teeth angrily. It was Tim's idea, "Why can't he tell me?" I pointed at his office.
"He is not here," she lied. I know that she lied because his red car is parked behind the diner. I took off the apron, tossing it on the counter and grabbed my belongings.
"Why?" I shouted loud enough for Tim to hear me, my voice shook as tears formed in my eyes. I don't want to cry; I refuse to cry in front of her. The line cookers turned away from the scene, pretending to cook so I won't call them out either.
Grace raised her hand to calm me down, "The recent incident slowed down the business..." I shook my head. It's just all lies. I refused to hear more from her. I thought we were friends.
"Coward!" I shouted at him angrily even though he was hiding in the office.
"Liliana," Grace said my name. I ignored her and left the property. I stopped walking when I came face to face with the Truck. It was all his fault. I can feel anger building up in my chest.
If he hadn't acted out like the way that he did, I would still have my job. I started to walk at the opposite direction to head home. I don't want to be in the same car with HIM.
What am I going to do? My chest started to feel numb and tingly. My hands started to feel shaky and cramp up. I feel like I was running out of air.
I feel…
I feel…
"What happened?" The familiar voiced asked. I glared at the weapon specialist.
"Why are your eyes leaking?" I wanted to laugh at his question. Leaking eyes. That is a new one. "Are you hurt? Did they hurt you?" Ironhide was ready to go back and make another scene. Also, how did he just suddenly appear next to me?
"You." I pointed at him. My nose started to feel runny. Ironhide raised an eyebrow, confused. I laughed this time until it turned to sobs. Ironhide wanted to reach for me, I raised my arms toward him indicating him to stop where he was at to keep distance between us.
"Just stay where you are." I told him, "Please, I want to be alone."
It seemed that Ironhide wanted to reach for me until he let it go, "I cannot do that." He finally said, "If you want to be alone, you can be alone at home. Not here."
The walk home is far. I marched to his truck and buckled myself up. Ironhide did the same and took me home. I managed to stop sobbing but the tears kept on coming. I use my sleeves to wipe my tears away.
I don't want to be here anymore.
XXXXXXXXXX
A/N
Hi guys! Happy Reading!
Even though I am the one writing the story, the ending had me feeling chocked up. Does anyone else feel bad for Lily? I just want to hug my character
2/7 - Wow guys! Thank you for following me and favoriting the story!
2/20 – hi y'all! My plan is to post a chapter every Monday. I am sorry I didn't upload chapter three yesterday for I had adult plans in the adult world and also I came back home still feeling icky sicky. Idk if there is some sort of virus going around that makes cold/flu last longer than normal? I was so sick about two weeks ago then last week I started to feel better and now yesterday I felt as if the cold came back again.
Anyways enough of my thoughts, I hope you enjoy this chapter. Please read and review!
Happy reading!