Love Struck Eternal
Chapter 59 - Putting things to bed.
Sam's POV, The next morning.
Lia had separated from my body halfway through my session of meditation last night. My body itself felt completely new. I already felt powerful, but the gifts she offered me were well beyond anything I could ever hope to achieve with just Roslin as my mentor. How was I supposed to tame this energy? All I wanted to do was test it out by at least phasewalking my way to Teddy's house, but I had my worries about even attempting such a jump. Lia assured me I would have to test it sooner or later, but I was still concerned with the results. I didn't want to look stupid in front of such a powerful woman.
"You do it once and you'll see just how easy it is now. Your dad can do the same and he has been for years. Trust me Samantha, it's safe. Believe in yourself." The fox urged me as she walked with me around the room. Giving her a small sigh before sucking in the butterflies in my gut, I replied.
"Fine. No reason to wimp out now. Ready?"
"Always." She replied as she grabbed onto my right hand with a smile.
Lia's POV.
I was so happy to see her commit, but I found myself even more excited when I felt the jump itself happen in real time. Sam herself looked absolutely stunned when she found herself right where she envisioned. I was already impressed with her abilities and after learning her story I grew fond of her potential; much like Roslin did. Even with my mark; that kind of jump shouldn't have happened. Typically for a demi to harness that kind of talent would take a few days at best, but here she was showing me what made her a special case. I made the right call with this intervention and it was only going to get better as time went on.
Marcus on the other hand was nowhere to be found. That mortal he fell for I killed just before I introduced myself to the wolf standing next to me. I'm sure he was hunting for her soul at this very moment. I didn't make it impossible for him to find, but it should keep him away for a bit. Surely he was in a panic for answers as well, but he'd have to wait. Looking eye to eye with the wolf standing just above me, I listened with a smile as she asked me in awe.
"Is it that easy?" Nodding my head she then began to laugh under her breath. I took one look at the house we were standing in front of to ask her.
"So this is where your friend Teddy lives right? His family clearly cares about you, but are you worried you won't be recognized?"
Calming her excitement down, she replied while taking the first step towards the front door.
"A little, but I'm sure they'll remember once they hear my voice." Taking her from behind by her left hand, I got her attention back to me fully as I decided to inform her of my intentions for this situation.
"I'm gonna stay out of your way for this. You clearly care about these people and I don't want my presence to influence anything you might say or do. So I'm gonna squeeze back inside you. Okay?" She had no time to respond because I threw myself back inside her body as she now had to adjust.
Sam's POV.
It was like my spine got shocked by a bunch of shivers. Thankfully my body was capable of recovering pretty quickly because I knew I was about to enter a world of emotions with Teddy and his parents. I could physically feel Lia inside me however and that made me hesitate on ringing the bell. As I went to lift my finger up to it I heard her wish me.
"Good look. I'm sure it'll be fine."
I wanted to believe her but I was yet to ring the bell. Once I was ready I did the deed and hit the small white button that was just next to the door. I felt my nerves go up the moment I heard the ring go off inside the house, then it was just a matter of who was about to answer the call. I didn't bother to use my gifts for anything else but to keep my aura in check. With my body as warm as it would get at this moment, I widened my eyes when the lock got undone and the door opened with Teddy's mom behind it. The second she looked at me she went completely still just to stare at me.
I was damn near her size and I think that's what surprised her. Giving me a lost look she asked in confusion.
"Hello? Can I help you?"
Breaking out of the emotions I had, I smiled at her and replied curiously.
"Is Teddy in?" Giving me a slim smile she replied back.
"No, he isn't. Who are you? One of his friends?"
Giving her a confused look back I questioned.
"You really don't remember me? I know I changed my fur color and put on a few pounds, but I thought you'd recognize me." Teddy's mom now tried to really take in my appearance and after a few seconds of her not getting the message I teased her.
"Come on."
She had to be thinking of every wolf that she's seen even remotely near her son. Giving her a slightly concerned face I just said my name flat.
"Samantha? Samantha Voltz?" The moment she heard that she questioned.
"Sam?"
"I know I've been away for a while, but do you really not recognize me?" I asked her as she still wasn't convinced. Going behind my back for my wallet, I handed her my old ID and my ID from the states. The second she saw them side by side she broke out into a happy screech.
"Oh my god! Sam?!" Mother bear ran into my arms just like that and with genuine laughter leaving my soul I held her and myself from falling as she began to cry out.
"Phil! Phil, come out here! It's Samantha!"
"What?!" We could hear him asking back in confusion from the second floor of the house as she then asked me in shock.
"Oh my god baby! You're so big! What happened to you?!"
Before I could answer her my eyes caught Phil looking down at us. His eyes were wide and locked on me as I just opened my arms towards him. The bear didn't say a word, he just ran down the steps and picked me up in an ironic bear hug.
"Hahahah!" I laughed while nearly being carried halfway into the front yard. The bear himself broke out into tears and at the same time lost his footing. We rolled onto the ground, but still didn't let off the embrace. I just continued to hug the man as he soon pulled us both back up to our feet to ask in an amazed tone.
"What happened to you!? Look at you! Your huge!"
"What about you?! You look great!" I replied as he and his wife were still trying to register that this was really the same wolf they took in all that time ago. The same wolf who wasn't anywhere close to their sizes. Back before this I was so much smaller and definitely looked innocent. Now? God I can only imagine what they think of my new appearance. Thankfully I didn't have to think hard on it because before I knew it Phil blurted out.
"Jesus you're as big as Teddy! What happened to you kiddo?! Where did you go?!"
"To the US! I came back for the wedding!" I informed them as Teddy's mother begged for me and her husband to come back inside the house. As I started to walk towards her Phil asked me in disbelief.
"What's with the look? You changed everything. You look stunning Samantha."
Walking into their home I replied while pointing to my arm.
"I just wanted to try a new color. Make it a little bit of a surprise for everyone who hasn't seen me since I ran away. Which is a good thing to mention now that I'm back here with you two." Shutting the front door, Phil looked more serious now as Teddy's mom just remained silent with a small smile on her face. I took my time to phrase this, but in the end I said to them with emotion coming from my heart.
"I'm sorry I didn't say anything to you guys. I wanted to leave to get away from my dad. Not you guys. I had a chance to get out without anyone from my family to try and stop me. It was all about timing and I had no other choice but to take it. I'm sorry I didn't say anything. I didn't even tell Teddy."
"You don't have to apologize sweetie. What happened between you and your dad was serious business and we can understand why you left. Judging from what I'm seeing in front of me now; I'd assume it was worth it." Teddy's mom stated as Phil was quick to ask a more serious question.
"Has your father apologized?" Nodding my head I replied.
"Countless times. We're okay for now. Him and my mother are on their honeymoon for a week so I decided to stay for a little bit and wait for them to come back home. That way I can spend some time with both of them before I go back to the states."
"You're going back? Where are you staying?" Phil asked next as I took a moment to scratch my right ear. As I got the itch I replied.
"LA. I got a nice apartment over there."
"You like it?" Teddy's mom then asked.
"Love it. It's a whole new world over there and I love the people I meet. It's also nice not being recognized for once in my life. I feel normal actually. You know?" Both Phil and her understood exactly what I was saying and that felt nice to know as my thoughts soon went back to Teddy.
"Where's Teddy?" I asked as Phil was still trying to gauge my new body. I was throwing him off so much. Giving me an astonished look he soon replied.
"Teddy joined the army not that long after you left. He comes home every weekend, but spends most of his time on base at the capital to train. Makes me so proud seeing him serve."
"Any chance he could stop by just to see me? I'm spending my nights at the capital thanks to my father and I'd hate to interrupt him during training."
"I'm sure I could get him to stop by." Teddy's mom stated back confidently and with a smile on her face.
"In fact, how about we don't tell him you're here? I'm sure the boy needs a good surprise." Looking at his mother with a smile of my own back, I replied back to her suggestion.
"Oh that sounds like fun. Yeah he's definitely not expecting to see me."
"He's definitely not expecting to see the "new" you Samatha." Phil chuckled as I blushed a little from the compliment. Phil however came a step closer to marvel at me.
"You grew up so much since we last had you here. When did you decide to put on all the extra mass? You never rubbed me for a girl who cared about her definition. Don't take that the wrong way Sam. You look amazing and we love the new color. Black suits you. Reminds me of your mother. What happened to your face though kiddo?"
Looking somewhat embarrassed now as he mentioned my scars, I replied back with honesty.
"I got into a bad situation during my first month in the states. I didn't know what to do with myself for a while and I was running into all kinds of new people. Some good, but some bad as well."
"What kind of bad people are we talking about?" Teddy's mom wondered as I calmly took a breath before answering.
"Drug dealers mostly. I became close with one in particular and I'll not lie to you guys; I ran some of his products for him. Made a good bit of money in the process, but it's not something I'm proud of."
"Jesus." Phil mumbled under his breath as he sat down at the couch to continue listening.
"It doesn't get any better from there though. I was making a lot of money from it, but…..I got greedy and tried to skim off the top. They found out pretty fast what was going on and I didn't know they had found out; so I kept working. I got led around for a bit, but eventually I got jumped by those people. Cut my face up pretty bad. Stabbed me here." I said to them as I lifted up my shirt slightly so they could see the scar. Phil was wide eyed and in shock as I carefully finished my story.
"I nearly died. Mocha did die. She was with me when I got jumped. They….made me watch."
"Oh my god." Teddy's mom gasped as Phil stood up from the couch to comfort me with another hug. Thankfully this time he was gentle as I was clearly upset now from remembering the moment.
"I'm so sorry." He whispered over my shoulder as I was quickly able to inform him of the good part that became of that experience.
"I'm okay. I've had time to grieve. Plenty of time to hate myself for what I did. Once I was able to get back on my feet I made it a point to get in shape and take my life seriously. Found a lot of good people. Lots of retired soldiers and some trainers who helped me get my life together. I've learned how to fight and defend myself thanks to them as well. I promised Mocha I wouldn't ever be that weak again. I promised her I'd survive and since then I've been doing nothing but that. Just surviving. You know?"
Phil looked concerned for me, but at the same time he was very proud and gave me another hug for comfort. I hugged him back as I was sure this moment was giving Lia more insight to my lifestyle of deception. I cared about these people. I loved them, but I couldn't tell them everything. I'd lose them if they knew who and what I really was. Until I'm forced to come clean, I plan to dig a deep hole. Maybe deep enough to bury myself in when the time comes.
Teddy's POV, Two hours later.
Pulling up to my parent's house, I let out a deep sigh of relief that I was able to slip away from the unit for a change. Even if it was just to have some real food served for dinner. Taking off my vest and leaving it in the passenger seat, I checked my service weapon.
I was issued a pretty sizable revolver. It was easier for men my size to operate. My fingers barely fit inside most service pistols. To be honest I wasn't a fan of guns. My dad had a couple, but even he didn't really like them. They were tools. Meant to defend myself and those weaker than me. In that aspect I respected them, but decided tonight was not a night to have it on me. Leaving my weapon in the glovebox, I slowly got myself together and exited my vehicle.
Approaching the house, I got out my key and unlocked the front door. I could hear the TV in the living room and once I walked in I found my dad sitting on the couch. We locked eyes for a moment but that was quickly turned into a small cheer and a hug coming from the old man. Barely able to lift me off my feet he shouted out happily.
"Ahaha! Welcome home trooper!"
Once I was back on my feet fully, I gently put a hand between us and begged him.
"Oh please. Don't start that. I'm no trooper. You know I signed on to be a mechanic."
Patting my shoulder, my old man replied while tugging me towards the kitchen.
"I'm just proud of you. Now come on, your mother just finished setting the table for you and our special guest."
"Special guest?" I asked him back as we walked into the kitchen.
My dad was gonna keep walking with me, but I stopped in my tracks when I found my eyes staring at the table where sat my mother and an unfamiliar black wolf who was almost her size. In fact I was tossed for how big this wolf was because I've never seen a woman match this size. With my breath halted in confusion for what this was, I heard my mother mutter in a happy tone.
"Teddy bear?"
Looking at her, I questioned.
"You guys didn't mention a guest. Who's this?"
"Who do you think Ted?" My dad asked me from my side as I looked back at the wolf to try and understand what he was trying to say. It was then I heard the voice whisper towards me.
"You really can't think of anyone?" The second I heard the voice I knew who this was and I was speechless as she got out of her seat to begin walking towards me.
I couldn't believe this for even a moment. There wasn't any way. I backed up a step and once I did my mom looked at me in worry to question.
"Teddy? Are you okay?"
"Oh my god, you really can't recognize me?" Her voice was now slightly sad and for some reason that got my heart to do a complete one eighty. I never moved faster in all my life when I involuntarily ran into her arms with all I had. Her sheer mass was more than enough to absorb the energy. She didn't even budge as I began to sob into her neck.
My mom and dad both knew everything was alright and just allowed this moment to happen. Sam on the other hand hugged me with everything she had and soon could be seen crying over my shoulder. Her emotions were held much better together then mine though, because I was a fucking mess now as she begged me.
"Teddy….stop. It's okay."
It took a lot to gain control over my emotions, but I managed and slowly detached myself from her shoulder. I kept both hands on her arms however just because I wasn't ready to see her again and not like this. She wasn't even the same person I remembered. This was a completely different person altogether.
"Your….holy fuck. Who are you?" I asked her with a large smile as I began to chuckle uncontrollably. Sam began to laugh as well, but she was able to reply.
"I missed you Teddy. It's so good to see you."
"What are you doing here?" I asked her as my dad put his hand on my back. With the family all together, I listened close as the wolf replied.
"I came back for the wedding."
"What? I didn't….how didn't I see you?" I had to ask as she took a second to wipe her eyes.
"I missed the ceremony. My flight was delayed, but I made the reception. Weren't you there?" Her question was tugging at my memories.
"No. I wasn't able to attend. I had guard duty that night. I left the ceremony right after your parents said their vows."
Sam was just happy to see me and that was all that came to matter when she came back in to hug me again. I hugged her back as hard as I could and halfway through my mom urged us all in a happy voice.
"Let's all sit down and eat some food. Samantha can catch you up as we eat. Right hon?"
"Of course." She replied as I let her go and now just stared at her body in disbelief as she walked back to her chair.
She was fucking beautiful. Drop dead gorgeous. Her fur was all black and that was something I've never imagined her getting done. Her eyes really stood out among the dark shade, but her body was intense. She was built and had muscles bigger than mine and damn near was godlike to look at. She was making my heart spin on itself. I loved her before but for some reason this threw everything off. She wasn't that small little sister of mine. She looked like a straight up soldier. Like an operator from her father's special tasks group. The scars on her face were calling to me because I didn't know how to feel about them. She really looked like she got hurt to earn those and the idea of someone doing that to her made me want answers right now, but I had enough of my wits to wait until we sat down.
"What happened to your face Sam?" My question was pure concern and everyone sensed that as she replied back honestly.
"It's a whole story Teddy."
"We have time." I informed her as my mother made me a plate. Giving me a nod of her head she took a deep breath and looked right into my eyes. She was prepared to give me answers.
Sam's POV, Later that night.
Teddy wanted to go for a walk with me around the neighborhood. Ever since we got done having dinner with his parents he seemed adamant on getting me alone. So I agreed to walk with him. Thankfully he was still trying to come to terms with my new look and most of the walk he spent silent trying to figure out how to approach me in conversation.
I told him everything I told his parents and he was just trying to take it all in. Hearing about how I lost Mocha and how I got fucked up made him more concerned then angry. I was expecting a pep talk or even a scolding from him, but as we walked we soon came to my old house. M.E.A.F soldiers guarded it from all sides, but we were still able to get a good look at the damage.
Observing me as I took in the bullet holes surrounding the building, I was soon asked by the bear at my side.
"You okay? Your parents aren't planning to rebuild it just yet from what I've heard."
"Yeah I'm good. I just wanted to see the damage for myself. Still surprised no one was killed when this happened."
"Yeah you're right. If Yoga wasn't there someone might have. They only ran because they weren't expecting a ferret like him to be a good shot and nor were they expecting him to survive the opening fire." Teddy said back as I let out a small breath before smiling back at him to reply.
"I call him a noodle for a reason. Slimy bastard. Heheh."
Teddy laughed a little with me as my eyes soon went back to the house. Putting a soft hand on my right shoulder, Teddy asked me in a softer voice.
"You wanna keep walking?"
"Yeah." I replied as I turned to walk back the way we came. My friend stuck close to me, but even now I could sense what he was looking at as I was a foot or two ahead of him. I shot him a look back just pretending that I was trying to make sure he was walking with me and that's when I caught his eyes darting back up to mine.
Teddy always had strong feelings for me, even when we were growing up. Sadly I never felt the same way about him. I love him as a friend and I don't want to ruin that friendship by getting involved with him romantically. I knew he would, however, risk it all for me. Regardless of what I was, he would always look at me in that way.
With the bear soon getting himself back in line, I decided to fuck with him by asking a blunt question that I knew would get his attention.
"Just out of curiosity Teddy. Do I look good?"
Widening his eyes he questioned back.
"What? Why would you ask that?"
"You've been staring at my ass for the last hour we've been walking." Instantly his face showed embarrassment. I gave him another smile before adding onto the question.
"It's okay. To be honest I'm still getting used to my new body and I don't really fish for compliments or complaints, but considering it's you, I would like to have your honest opinion. You think I put on too much weight?"
"Ahh no, hahah! No, of course not." He nervously replied back.
"You sure? You can be honest. I won't be hurt."
"I'm being serious Sam." The bear then stated as I took it a step further to wonder.
"Sometimes I think I'm a little too big for a woman. I see the way everyone looks at me. What do you think?"
"I think you look amazing. I don't know how you did it, but I know who you are. I know your ability to fully embrace change and the OCD you get when you have to work at something hard. You're a lot bigger than what I was used to, but that's not a bad thing. I really do like it."
"You think I'm hot?" I then casually asked which in turn got the big guy to choke on some of his spit. After two coughs, he replied back nervously still.
"I….I mean you….ahhh…..yeah. You pretty fucking hot, but that hasn't ever changed."
"Heheh. Thanks Teddy." I mumbled as he smiled back.
"No problem."
"So what have you been up to? How's the M.E.A.F treating you?" I then proceeded to ask him as we were slowly moving in unison. Giving the sky a curious look he replied.
"Pretty good, I think. Everyone is pretty chill. At least in my unit, but we're mechanics. Nothing to stress over but a few vehicles."
"Do you like it?" My question earned me a quick nod back as he then asked me.
"What about you? Have you ever thought about coming back here full time? I'm sure your parents would want that." Nodding my head back I replied as I took note of his tone. He was only asking me this because deep down he wanted me to stay for his own sake.
"I've thought about it, but I have a lot going on overseas and I'm enjoying the freedom that comes with being away from my family. Living here again would just take a lot of that away. Between my dad probably keeping tabs on me and my mother being glued to my side, I don't think I'd have any time to myself. Like truly to myself. Plus people don't know who I am over there. I'm not the president's daughter to anyone. I keep that shit on the low Teddy."
Giving me an understanding look back, the bear then wondered.
"I don't blame you. I've thought about that before. It must be more stressful than anything. What about Maggie though? I heard about the adoption. What do you think about it? You seem chill."
"I'm chill because I haven't been trying to think about it." I informed him back as he then apologized.
"Oh…..my bad Sammy. I didn't think you were against it. Thought you and her were tight."
"You and probably my whole family thought that way. I can't stand her though. She left me when I needed her most in my life. Maybe I took it personally, but she knew where I was at back before she joined the army. She made the choice on what was more important. In the end it was herself."
"I don't know Sam." Teddy mumbled back as I just decided to go silent. I didn't want to talk about her and he knew it after some time. However he was quick to ask me another question. One that again I was expecting.
"If you did decide to stay though, what would you do?"
"I don't know." I replied which in turn got him to suggest curiously.
"What about the army? I bet you'd have no issues getting through bootcamp. Plus it could be a good way to start up your mad scientist career. You still into all that stuff?"
Chuckling now I replied back.
"Yeah I'm still into it, but I don't think joining the army would be my preferred method to getting it started. I still have a scholarship I could use and I can think of many better choices than here." No one thankfully knew I had already sold the scholarship so it was easy enough to lie about.
"Yeah, true." Teddy again mumbled as I curiously asked him now.
"You really want me to stay, huh?" Looking at me with a somewhat annoyed face, the bear stopped me in my tracks by stating with his heart.
"So what if I do? You're my best friend. Finding out you ran away fucking hurt me Sam. You know how I feel about you. I've tried twice to tell you, but you always blew it off. I know your worried it would fuck up our friendship, but that's some bullshit. I….I fucking care about you so god damn much." I wasn't expecting him to open up like this. It caught me off guard and in a weird spot as he continued.
"I've always had your back. I might not have been there like Maggie was, but I tried everyday to make you smile and most of the time it worked. I….I thought we were getting somewhere. I thought you cared more than you did."
"I do care." I tried to tell him, but that was when he began to shake his head and vent in more emotion.
"You clearly didn't care enough to even think about me when you decided to fucking run. You mean the world to me Samantha. Fuck your last name and fuck your family. You weren't just some VIP to me. I wasn't hanging out with you to flex to my friends or earn a pardon from your pops if I ever got into some shit with the law. I was there because I truly did fucking care about you. I….I love you Sam." I widened my eyes as he was now starting to tear up.
"I'm sorry it took all this time for me to say that." I gave the man a sad look because I truly did feel bad. He was being so real and truthful with me. It sucked I didn't feel the same for him. Taking a second to let him breathe, I slowly but surely told him the truth. I knew it was gonna hurt though.
"I'm sorry but I don't feel the same way." I saw the look in his eyes and I could feel the emotion in his heart breaking apart. It didn't make this any easier to say.
"I'm not trying to ruin what we have. You're one of my best friends and I know you mean it when you say you got my back. I really do believe you Teddy. I do, but I can't emotionally commit to the next level with you. I never viewed you in that way. You're more like a big brother and I love you for filling the void that my life so desperately needs. Hey?"
Giving me an understanding look, the bear remained quiet, but still in tears as I looked him right in his eyes to admit another truth behind my reasoning for breaking his heart.
"No matter what you think. I'm never gonna be good enough for you. You deserve better than me Teddy. I'm not the same girl I once was and I never will be again."
"But why?" He questioned as I proceeded to deflect.
"If I told you half the shit I've been through since leaving here you would understand. I wish I could tell you but if I did you would kill me."
"What?" He asked back blankly as I grabbed him by the hand and pulled him with me as I began to walk away from the conversation. Looking at me with some concern, but more curiosity than anything, I said back to him not more than a few steps later.
"I don't want to ruin what we already have. I need you to stay where you are in my heart Teddy. I love you, but for my sake, please just stay at my side. Don't worry about a relationship. We don't need another and I'm not anywhere near ready. Not for someone as sweet and as thoughtful as you."
Teddy was fighting back more tears, but he could easily pick up on my emotions as I said that last sentence to him. Reaching over to take his hand, I smiled while wiping my face to gently whisper.
"Okay?"
Giving me a long and hard look, I soon felt relief when I heard his big voice reply.
"Okay. Okay Sam. I understand. I'm…?" Cutting him off I begged.
"Don't say you're sorry. It's me who should be sorry. Now come on, let's get back to your parents. I'm sure they're wondering what's taking so long."
Teddy smiled after a few moments and that was all I needed to relax now.
Two hours later.
Teddy drove me back to the capital and by the time I arrived the outside lights were turning on and the sky had started to go black. On my way inside the main building, I caught the attention of more people. All the guards were staring as I made my way upstairs. I was worried something happened, but when I reached the top I soon found Zandro coming down the hall from where my quarters were. The second we locked eyes he smiled and shouted.
"There you are Samantha! You got a few minutes?"
I kept walking, but the man glued himself to me almost instantly to get an answer. Giving him a calm one back I replied.
"Can this wait? I'm really tired, Zandro."
"It'll only take a few minutes. We can talk in your room."
Letting out a small sigh, I soon mumbled back.
"Fine."
"How have things been since coming back? Crazy weather we got right?" He casually asked as we were walking at a decent pace now.
"Yeah it's been pretty bizarre, but overall it's been nice."
"Your parents asked me to ask you, but do you need anything while you're here? Your mom handed this off to me right before she got on the plane. She wants you to get whatever you need." I stopped moving to look at what came my way and that was my mom's credit card. Giving the man a smile, I gently pushed his hand back into his chest before replying.
"I don't want their money. I'm a big girl, Zandro. I have money of my own that I'm using. Please just hang on to it until she gets back."
Zandro was always a strange figure growing up. Always seemed in charge, but somehow always playing an angle. With him I used to not be able to tell, but now I had full awareness. Taking back the card, he smiled softly while suggesting.
"You sure? You came to us pretty light. I know you just got some clothes, but do you have all your remedies?"
"I'm okay, Zandro. I promise."
I continued towards my room and the man kept up until we reached it. He then got the door for me as I ran the keycard across the reader. Walking by him and into the room, I slowly came to a stop and spun around to look at him as he finished shutting the door.
"Okay, so what's this about?" Zandro began to pace and that had me concerned. He was really trying to figure out how to say whatever it was he was going to say or he was considering backing out. I'm sure if it was taking him this long to say something it meant my father wouldn't enjoy whatever was asked. However I was curious so I remained silent and just waited as he slowly came to a halt in his stepping.
"It's about clearing up some loose ends I have. Mainly with you."
"Okay? Like what? Did I do something?" I questioned which is when he smiled and replied back playfully.
"Yeah, around last year. You and Rosco. I'm still trying to figure it out and since you're here now I thought I would ask to get clarification on some things. Can we talk about this like adults Samantha? I don't want your dad knowing about this."
"I don't plan on telling my dad anything. So just go ahead and ask your questions. I won't hide anything."
Zandro believed me and as I remained where I was in front of him he soon asked me directly.
"How did you get into contact with Rosco to begin with?"
Jumping right into it I replied back truthfully.
"Wasn't hard. I've seen Rosco from time to time hanging out with uncle Char. When he used to drive me home from school sometimes Rosco would be there for extra protection. We talk for starters. Figured out he was the head of security for the research labs here on site and just figured he was easy enough to talk to. Most big guys are. They act tough, but deep down they can be sweethearts. Rosco was always checking me out, even when I was underage. He was a creep in that regard, but it was a good enough gamble that he'd take the chance to visit me in private once I was old enough."
Giving me a disgusted look Zandro proceeded to ask.
"I didn't know he looked at you that way Samantha. I swear if I would have known I would have done something."
"It's fine. Nothing came of it, but he was always looking to get out of the middle east and back then; so was I. With his security clearance and all that, he felt he could rob you guys and get out clean, which he did for the most part." I mumbled back as I saw Zandro prepare his next question.
"Why ask him to lift all that? You wanted the drugs and the research data. Why do something like that when you could have clearly just asked him to tag along if he already planned on leaving the middle east? Why take the risk Samantha? You do know if your dad wasn't who he is you would be in jail doing twenty to life, right?"
"I wasn't in the right place back then. I was upset that no one would listen to me. You included. So I wanted to use the data your men already possessed to see if I could make a version of Viper Venom that would help me get control over the venom already in my veins. To help me become perfect and not some feral who has to watch their temper; otherwise I risk lashing out and killing someone or even myself."
"That's not feasible. You need lab equipment and expertise to be able to make the drug. Two things you lacked at the time Samantha. Not only that, but my people and thousands of others around the world have been trying to stabilize the mixture. It comes down to mere fractions of measurements. The mixture has to be perfect otherwise it could kill the host." Zandro claimed as I gave him a small cock of my head. He picked up on the fact that I didn't believe him about it being possible so he quickly asked me in concern for my health.
"You didn't make your own dose, right?"
"No, I did. I made a couple different versions and tested all of them on myself." I then admitted which got him to widen his eyes and question.
"And nothing happened to you?"
"Oh fuck yeah something happened. I nearly died a couple of times from overdosing myself."
"Jesus Christ Sam." Zandro was in disbelief that I was alive now, but I still went on to urge him.
"I'm fine. Stop overreacting. I'd say nearly killing myself was worth all the effort. After all, now I don't have to worry about anything anymore." I chuckled out which got the man to look at me now in confusion as I turned on my venom for him to see. Not breaking a single sweat or even showing any physical signs of changing over my power, Zandro however was speechless and motionless as I just crossed my arms and asked curiously.
"Can't wrap your head around it? I did what you just said wasn't possible. I did what the world said wasn't possible and I did it all by myself. I saw the problem I had and I took the steps I needed to take to solve it and now that I'm a perfect user; I don't have to worry about anything. My anger has no effect on my ability to remain in control. I can call upon this whenever I have to and when I do I'm capable of things no one else is. Not even trained users. I've done my research Zandro and I know perfect users are supposed to be born, not made, but I made myself one and to be honest it's my greatest achievement so far with hopefully plenty more to come."
Approaching me slowly Zandro questioned.
"What did you do?" Zandro was a man of science despite his affiliation with my dad in being a brute about most things, so he was indeed interested about this conversation now that he had proof right in front of him to attest my claims. Giving the man a small smile, I replied while putting my venom away for the time being.
"I just used what data you had at the time and tested the effects of venom on myself to see what the issue was with taking a fresh dose for basically my first time. After that I looked at the chemical makeup your men drew up and altered some things. Even added just to see what would happen. Once I had my first altered dose; I tested it. Turns out what I did worked. My venom comes to me whenever I need it to and I saw a major increase in my strength and speed ever since taking the dose. Haven't had a single problem since and trust me, I've gotten pretty angry at times. Nothing came of it."
"Sam?" Zandro muttered with utmost concern which got me to hum back.
"Hm?"
"What exactly did you do? Do you have notes? Do you remember the process?"
"No notes. It's all right here." I told him as I pointed at my skull. Giving me an outright astonished look the man then stated.
"Let me be clear to you. I've never once doubted your intelligence Samantha. You're a brilliant woman. A staple alongside your mother who is a super genius herself. But if what you're saying is true then you need to tell me what exactly you did to "cure" yourself. That's a breakthrough that no one in the world has seen in decades involving this drug and the M.E.A.F would be the first to advance the subject. The Middle East could change the world with that kind of formula. You could change hundreds of lives in the military abroad. G.U.N, M.E.A.F, Russia, China; they would all benefit from this. Please….what did you do?"
I lost my smile and took a step backwards to reply to the man.
"To be honest Zandro, I don't want to tell anyone about what I did. I doubt anyone would believe a kid like me, who doesn't even have a college degree; fixed a problem that the world's best couldn't solve."
"They would believe the results, Sam. Tell me what you did and I'll have my people recreate the dose you took. We test it safely and if it pans out that you're right; there will be no doubts. Not even from the world's best."
Chuckling and shaking my head at the same time I replied.
"Oh no no. That's not gonna happen."
"Why not?" Zandro immediately questioned.
"I'm not letting your people claim my research as their own. I know what I did and I know the impact it could have if I gave it to you, G.U.N, or just about anyone with an army."
"It would help everyone who is affected by being an imperfect user." Zandro informed me as I blankly said back to him seeing his emotions starting to rise up from within his chest.
"I don't fucking care. I did what I did for myself. No one else. That research dies with me Zandro. I'm sure given enough time someone else will figure it out. You'll just have to wait."
"God damn it Samantha!" He screamed as he was now outright mad at me for being so selfish.
Truth be told I wasn't lying. I didn't care about anyone else when it came to this and I had no plans to share this with anyone at the moment. Especially not the world's fourth biggest military like the M.E.A.F. I knew what I had in my head and I knew I wasn't ready or impressed with just making a dose that could cure feral users. I still wanted to make that dream of mine a reality. A dose that can create a perfect user. A dose that would work for anyone. A superweapon in the wrong hands. I make that and I'll see who wants it the most.
Zandro was fuming, but I figured I'd at least give him the chance to see my work for himself. So as I sat on my bed now I suggested to the man as calmly as I could.
"How about this? At the very least I could demonstrate the results. Currently all the research is in my head, but I do have one dose left that I made alongside the one I took. I've been saving it for god knows what reason, but if you'd like I'd be more than willing to give it to someone who suffers like I did. You could see my results work right before your eyes."
Zandro was thinking this over very carefully, but was quick to explain his problem in all this.
"That's very generous of you Sam, but that doesn't give me what I want."
"No, what you want is the blueprint for how to make it yourself and I don't blame you for wanting that, but I'm not ready to share that knowledge with the M.E.A.F or just about anyone."
"Why though? You could be doing such a good thing for everyone." He claimed as I remained calm and collected enough to reply.
"True, but do you really think I'm gonna just give it to you for free?" Zandro instantly knew what I was getting at and lost his entire persona. Soon he started to chuckle and then laugh. Up until he questioned in disbelief.
"You can't be serious?"
"No, I'm serious. I know what that information is worth. I'm sure I'd make a lot of money going to the right people. G.U.N would probably pay a fortune just to say they did it first. Same goes for the M.E.A.F. My dad might not like this, but I'm sure given enough thought even he would be willing to play ball. Hell just about anyone would want this chance."
Zandro was a businessman at heart at one point so soon enough he began to pace around the room again. Only this time he stopped after a minute to ask me bluntly.
"How much?"
Shrugging my shoulders I replied.
"I don't know yet. Like I said Zandro, I have no intentions of selling the information. I have a lot more in my life to worry about and a lot more to do. Maybe once I settle down and go back to school, I'll consider a price if no one else has figured it out by then."
"This isn't a game Samantha. You can't just sit on this knowledge. The amount of lives you can change right now outweighs anything you have going on outside of the Middle east. Think for a second and just come up with a number. I'll talk to a few people and we'll work something out. Your parents don't even have to know. I can always fabricate a story."
"I don't care if they know. My dad already suspects that I was doing something with all that product Rosco stole and my mother like you said is a super genius. I'm sure if she knew her only daughter figured this out she'd be proud. Speaking of which, when it comes to testing my results isn't she still considered a feral? I know she's gotten a lot of help, but that doesn't make her perfect."
Looking at me with a wild face Zandro replied.
"Your mother hasn't taken any venom in nearly twenty years, Sam."
"So what? I know what it's like to struggle with being imperfect and I'm sure she does too. Off the stuff or not, she can still feel the venom in her body. I'm sure she still has urges even to take a dose herself. Her control over that is amazing, but being cured of that struggle would change her life. I'm also pretty confident that no one else but her would be willing to test my dose. So like I said, if you want to see my results for yourself I'd talk to her first."
"What if she agrees and whatever you made kills her? Could you live with that?"
"Could I live with killing anyone we decided to test this on? I'm a lot of things, but a killer? No." I said back to him which got him to go silent as I continued.
"My design is perfect. I wouldn't even suggest my mother of all people if I knew it had a chance at not working as intended. I'm ballsy and I'm selfish, but I'm not an idiot when it comes to the shit that I care about passionately. I get that from my dad I bet."
"I'd agree with that." Zandro mumbled back as I proceeded to then urge him.
"If you want, all you gotta do is ask when they get back from their honeymoon. Wait any longer and I'll be gone again and this time I might not return for a long time depending on how things go."
Zandro knew he couldn't do anything to me to get the information by force. Hurting the president's daughter? He wouldn't dare try that. He knew I had him in a pinch and pretty much beat on this topic, but being a man of science he at the very least wanted to see my dose for himself. So after some time he recollected his old calm attitude to reply to me respectfully.
"Okay. I'll talk to your parents when they get back. I'm sure your mother would be proud. I'm also sure she'd take the risk after seeing you as a perfect user for herself. I'm assuming she doesn't know about this?"
"Only person who did was Rosco and….well….I'm sure he's dead if what my dad said was true about people hunting him."
Zandro knew Rosco had been killed, but thanks to the network no one knows who collected the bounty. So playing into my act of not being sure if he was dead or not; the man soon informed me back of the truth.
"I heard you got away from him before things could get worse. You did the right thing because…..someone did kill him. Not long after Peek visited you. I'm sorry if you two were friends, but you could have gotten really hurt if you hadn't listened to your dad."
"I know." I replied back sadly as I pretended to care. Coming back over to my side, the man put a hand on my shoulder to look me in my eyes. I stared up at him as he whispered now.
"You did the right thing. You're safe and that's all that matters. Above all else, you're alive. As for everything else; I'll stick to your offer. At the very least I want to see this for myself and I'm sure all my researchers will. I'd like you to be there when I decide to bring it up to them. I'm sure your parents won't take my claims seriously, but if you're there to display the results to them; they'll believe it. Can I count on you?"
"Of course." I replied with a smile as he squeezed my shoulder and then came in to hug me. I hugged him back and that's when I heard him again beg me.
"Please reconsider sharing this with us. The government will pay whatever you ask. It would change your life."
"I know." I whispered back as we disconnected from one another.
"I'm gonna let you get to bed. I'm sorry if I got upset. I'll see you in the morning."
"Goodnight Zandro and don't worry about it. I'm just doing what you taught me." Slightly confused by what I meant he asked me back.
"What did I teach you?"
"To take advantage of every opportunity." My words got him to chuckle and he knew he fucked himself good with that. All he could do when he reached the door to unlock it was laugh at me and admit.
"Good to know some things rubbed off on you." I just watched with another smile as he opened my door and left. I got up to lock it and once that was done I let out a sigh and looked towards the bed. I had that needle back in my bags at the hotel and it would stay there until my parents got back. I trust Zandro, but he's an opportunist like me. He doesn't know I have my gear stashed so he must think the needle is with my stuff here. I wouldn't put it past him to send someone to search my room next time I went out. To bad he won't find anything if he does try to fuck me out of this.
"What's so important about this…..drug?" I heard Lia ask from within my head as I refocused and went back to sitting on the bed. Once I was there I replied to her from within my own thoughts.
"In comparison to demigods; mortals are weak. Some might be stronger than others, but in the end, weak all around. Viper venom was made by human hands to increase the physical strength of anyone strong enough to take it. You die if your body isn't, but plenty survive and they're used to carry out a lot of things that weak men can't do themselves. G.U.N was the first to use it and after years of conflict the entire world has learned how to create the drug and use it for their own. To get stronger and to rule around them. Users are what people like myself are called. Funny since we're always being used. Typically not the other way around."
"But you're perfect? What's that mean?" Lia wondered curiously as she finally exited my body. I felt the tug of her soul leaving and that got me to hold my words back as she got down on the bed to ask.
"Are you okay?" Nodding my head, I gave her a thumbs up and replied at the same time.
"Yeah, I'm good. Just feels weird every time."
She put her small hand on my leg to show compassion as I was able to now answer her question about what a perfect user was.
"A perfect user just means we don't have to ever take the drug to gain strength. We just demand it and it happens. Some people can do that, but when they do they go crazy and forget who they are. Attack anything until the power surges off. That's what an imperfect user or a feral user is. It's an amazing thing biologically when someone is perfect or imperfect. Chances are slim the drug molds like that into your DNA; which is why we're sought after. Telling Zandro that I made a form of that drug that cures imperfect users is world altering on its own and no one's been able to figure it out but me. That's why he really pushed to get me to talk. My dad's army would benefit from a massive paycheck if they could sell that formula to G.U.N."
"And since you despise them both you aren't gonna give them anything without being cut in? Smart." Lia told me back as I nodded again and proceeded to ask her curiously.
"I'm gonna meditate through the night. If you're confident Marcus won't show up would you like to join me? I'd like to experience your energy for a bit longer."
I stood up as she shot me a look of shock. I was a tad caught off guard by her reaction but it became clear to me why she reacted that way almost instantly. Standing up to take my hands she questioned.
"Are you serious? I'd love to! Oh man, I haven't shared my mind with my own demi for centuries! I promise I'll be good! This is gonna be so much fun!"
"Okay cool. That's something I wanted to talk to you about anyway. Heheh. Let's take a seat."
"Take my hands." She begged as we got down on the carpet.
With our hands locked and the connection ready to go, I looked into her eyes and took a deep breath. She did the same and before I knew it we had entered an entirely new world. One that was under her influence and one that I was amazed to feel.
mT Shadow.