by K. G. Reuss
Finally, she looked at me — everyone looked at me. “Olivia, please tell me what happened. The truth. One of these boys will be getting in trouble. It’s up to you which one.”
Fuck. I never wanted attention. I tried so hard to blend in. But it seemed like I always got the one thing I tried to avoid.
“Brent threw his food on me on purpose. Wes was just sticking up for me,” I mumbled. I knew ratting out Brent would only amp up his bullying, but Wes was my friend so I couldn’t lie and get him in trouble. He was sticking up for me.
“I figured as much,” Mrs. Stevens said, turning toward Brent. “My office now.” She snapped her fingers before turning back to me. “You have an extra set of gym clothes to change into?”
I nodded. After the incident with my gym clothes, I made sure to bring extra. I had them stashed all over the school: my locker, Anita’s, the science lab, literally everywhere.
Mrs. Stevens grabbed ahold of Brent’s arm to lead him to the office, but he turned back, smiling widely. “See you at your party tomorrow, Liv.”
I let out a deep breath and rolled my eyes. Fuck my life. Why can’t I just sleep all the time and be with the man who loves me and wants to protect me. Oh, yeah…. he’s not a man. He’s my subconscious.
When school was over, I went directly home and crashed into my bed, hoping to sleep the rest of the day away and spend it with the only person who cared about me. Sleep came easily, but Donovan didn’t.
The morning of my party I woke up feeling let down. I needed him, and he didn’t show. I told myself he was busy, trying to get ready for my party, but even I couldn’t believe that.
The morning was spent going through my routine of showering and getting dressed before going downstairs for breakfast.
“Morning, Mom,” I mumbled, walking into the kitchen to find her speeding around like a mouse that ate a peanut-butter and crack sandwich, pulling things out of the cabinet.
“Oh, Liv! I was about to come wake you.” She bent down and grabbed something out of the oven, walking over to me with a plate in her hands.
I looked down to see a big stack of blueberry pancakes. She even drew an “18” on the top with whipped cream. “Happy eighteenth birthday, sweetheart.” She pressed a kiss to my forehead.
I couldn’t hold back my smile. “Thanks, Mom.” I took the plate and sat down at the table to enjoy my favorite birthday breakfast.
“You better get a move on. You’re going to be late,” she said, going back to rushing around the kitchen.
My face scrunched. “Late? The party isn’t until tonight. I think I have plenty of time, Mom.”
“No, silly girl — or should I say woman, now?” She paused, looking confused before shaking her head to clear her thoughts. “I made appointments for you to get your hair and makeup done. This is your big day. Oh.” She held up her finger before dashing from the room.
She was back within minutes holding a dress bag in her fingertips. Slowly, she lowered the zipper and removed the bag to reveal a beautiful, white dress. It was almost like the one I wore in my dreams. It was made of lace with a thin, white underlining. The dress had a wide neckline and short sleeves. The bodice was form fitting until it got to the hips where it flared out, flowing just below the knee.
I gasped as I stood and looked at the dress, lifting my hand to rub the lace between my fingers. “It’s beautiful, Mom. Where’d you find it?”
Her cheeks turned pink. “Well… I left the hospital early one morning after my shift. As I was walking to my car, I looked up, and this dress was hanging in the window of a second-hand store. Something drew me to it. I don’t even remember walking across the street, but the next thing I knew, I was in front of the window, looking at it. The store owner must have seen me, and she opened the door early to let me in. I figured it was too good to be true. I mean, it was a second-hand store. What were the chances of it being your size? But, it was! And I bought it on the spot. Do you love it?”
Even though I felt like it was some weird twist of fate, I smiled widely and nodded my head with excitement.
“This is going to be the best birthday ever, Liv,” she gushed while tucking the dress back into the bag. “Now, finish up your breakfast. You have a big day ahead of you.”
I spent the day being pampered and got home with only a couple hours to spare before the party. I really wanted to lie down and go to sleep, hoping to see Donovan, but I was too amped up to sleep. Excitement about the party and the possibility of seeing him made my heart race. But the prospect of Brent showing up and ruining everything had my nerves frazzled. And I was scared of both those things.
My mind was torn. I wanted Donovan to be real. And I wanted to see him. But what would happen if he actually showed up? I’d have to be checked into a mental facility. Either way, I was dying to see how it’d all play out.
Slipping on my new, white dress, I stood in front of my full-length mirror. My flaming-red hair was smooth as it hung down my back in soft, loose curls, framing my face perfectly. The makeup I wore was light—only a slight pink to my cheeks, a touch of shimmering eyeshadow on my eyes, and a lightly line of black liner to make them pop. My lashes were long and perfect, and my lips were a soft pink. The dress fit like a glove, as if it was made specifically for me. It hugged my breasts and waist until it flowed freely around me. I slid my feet into a pair of white flats and took a deep breath. “You can do this. You’re eighteen now. Things will be different at this party,” I told myself.
I gave the mirror one, last look, and pushed myself forward, heading for the door.
Olivia
“Oh my God! You look amazing!” Anita gushed as she and Wes walked into the dance hall together. We wrapped our arms around one another, hugging fiercely. When we pulled away, tears shimmered in my eyes.
“Don’t cry.” She chuckled, wiping at her eyes. “Or you’re going to make me cry, and then we’ll both have to go redo our makeup!”
I let out a small laugh and hastily wiped at my eyes.
“You do look really pretty,” Wes commented, giving me a quick hug.
“Thanks, Wes,” I answered, my cheeks heating at his compliment.
An hour later, the place was surprisingly packed. Everyone was laughing, eating, and dancing to the DJ my mom hired. She’d gone all out on this party. I didn’t even want to know how much she’d spent to make it happen. The entire ceiling above the dance floor was covered in pink and white balloons. Their silver ribbons hung down above everyone’s heads. Nearly every surface was decorated with matching streamers, and small, white candles burned on every tabletop. By the door, there was a long table, covered by a mountain of gifts.
“Time for your cake!” Mom’s voice rang out happily as she took me by the hand and led me to the front of the hall. I had a sudden vision that I was in a bad horror movie, and this would be the part where the pig’s blood would drop onto my head. I caught Brent’s gleaming eyes in the front of the crowd and swallowed hard as he licked his lips and tossed me a wink.
Looking out at the sea of people, I hopelessly scanned it, looking for Van’s handsome face. Nothing. Sighing, I knew it was a useless dream. I’d been crazy to even consider it a possibility.
Sitting down, I looked at the wavering flames on the birthday candles as the crowd sang “Happy birthday” to me. Wes had really worked his magic. So much so that he’d packed the dance hall with people who pretended to give a damn about me. I knew they were only there because it was a party with free food, and the possibility that they might see me take a nosedive.
“Blow out your candles and make a wish!” Mom's voice filled my ears. My gaze went out to the crowd again, my body trembling. He’d said to wish for him when I blew out the candles.
“This is so stupid,” I muttered barely above a whisper as I drew in a deep breath, locking my eyes on the white cake with its pink icing, wishing me a “happy 18th birthday”.
I wish Donovan was here with me right now.
The wish came
easily, my heart aching because I knew I was an idiot to believe in birthday wishes. I released my deep breath, and the candles went out, leaving nothing but smoke curling around me.
There was a collective gasp from the party-goers as the lights in the hall flickered and went out.
“What the devil—” Mom’s voice called out. The crowd murmured as they tried to figure out what was happening. A moment later, the lights flickered and came back on.
Of course, we’d have electrical issues at my party. I looked at Brent quickly, wondering if he’d had a hand in it. It seemed like a mediocre trick, especially since he liked to be physical in his torture of me. He stared back at me with a raised eyebrow that somehow confirmed he had nothing to do with it.
I tore my eyes away from him as the crowd began to murmur. Looking beyond everyone, my attention was drawn to the doorway. My breath hitched in my chest as Donovan came into view, his dark hair a beautiful disaster, his midnight eyes focused on me as his lips turned up into a sexy grin. The crowd parted for him as he walked to me. His simple black t-shirt and jeans clung to him just like they had in my dreams.
Rising to my feet, my lips parted, my breath came out in sharp gasps.
“Happy birthday, beautiful.” He smiled down at me once he reached me.
“H-how?” I stammered in a choked voice, taking a step away from him. Had I fallen and hit my head when the lights went out? Was I dreaming?
“I made you a promise,” he answered, a crestfallen look on his handsome face as I took another step back.
“Livvy, please. Don’t run,” his words came out in a rushed, pleading whisper. “Not from me. Please.”
His dark eyes wavered, begging me to stay. My head swirled. This was insane! Was this even possible?
Obviously, it was! He’s standing in front of me!
What if it’s only a dream?
Then it’s OK. It’s OK to go to him.
Taking a tentative step toward him, I reached out and brushed my fingers against his face. His eyes closed, a soft sigh leaving his lips. His hand came up and took my hand and pressed it to his mouth, kissing it tenderly.
“You’re real,” I murmured, dumbfounded. “Or this is the most vivid dream I’ve ever had.”
“I’m real. I’m here, baby. I came for you.” His arms opened. I looked from them to him, knowing damn well the entire room was silently gawking at me, my mother included. And why wouldn’t they be? I was the weirdo in school, only interacting with Anita and more recently Wes. This probably seemed out of this world nuts to everyone. A mysterious, hot guy suddenly appeared, wanting me, touching me like we were in love, in front of everyone.
Not caring about them, I stepped into his arms. The sigh he let out shook me to my core. He was relieved. He'd been afraid I’d run. Of course, the thought had gone through my head. His arms clenched around me, pressing my body so close to his there was no room between the two of us.
“I don’t want to wake up,” I sputtered into his neck as he held me.
“Shh, baby. I swear this is all real. You don’t have to wake up. You’re awake.” He rocked me in his strong arms, his lips pressing to my forehead fiercely. When I started to pull away, his hold tightened on me.
“Not yet,” he said, his forehead against mine. “I haven’t finished giving you your gift.”
“What gift is that?” I breathed out. I didn’t have to wait long to find out. His mouth met mine in a crash of passion. His tongue delved deeply into my mouth, tasting me, devouring me from the inside out.
My mom cleared her throat from behind us, causing us to break the kiss off. A tiny giggle bubbled out of my mouth. Van grinned at me, finally releasing me so we could face my mother and the hundred other people in the room.
“Hi.” Mom looked between us, her eyes wide with confusion. “I’m Jennifer, Olivia’s mom.”
“I’m so sorry, Ms. Butler,” Donovan quickly apologized, stepping forward and offering her his hand. “I’m Donovan Weaver.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Donovan,” she replied, her eyes moving from his to mine, obviously wanting to know why I’d never mentioned him before.
“Likewise.” He shook her hand before stepping back to me, his arm immediately snaking around my waist.
“Uh, wow.” Her eyes widened, and a small laugh erupted from her. “Sorry. I’m just surprised. I had no idea Olivia was seeing anyone.”
“We agreed to keep it quiet,” Donovan explained. “Liv wanted to make sure things were working out first before we announced it.”
“I see.” Mom glanced at me again. “Well, Liv, we’ll talk later. For now, I think we should have some cake.”
I knew she was just as confused as everyone else had to be, myself included. She quickly cut the cake and let people come up to get their piece.
“You should eat,” Donovan said, taking a plate for me.
“I don’t think I can,” I answered, my voice shaking.
“Then we should sit.” He chuckled, taking my hand and leading me to where Anita sat with Wes.
“Girl, what the hell?” She rose to her feet and gave me a quick hug.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about him—”
“Keeping secrets about a hot guy like that? I’m proud of you,” she whispered in my ear. “Hot damn, he’s gorgeous!”
“I know.” I grinned, pulling away from her.
“Hey, man. How’s it going?” Wes shook Donovan’s hand as he sat down beside him.
“Not bad.” Donovan gave him a nod, his arms pulling me onto his lap when I tried to sit in my own chair. “Actually, things are really good. I’m finally able to be here with my girl.”
My face flushed, and I nuzzled against him. Anita let out a sigh of happiness as she watched us.
“Have some cake, sweetheart,” Donovan offered me a forkful. I opened my mouth and let him slide the piece of cake in. He beamed at me as I chewed. “You’re so fucking beautiful. Have I told you that?”
“Yes," I answered bashfully, my face heating even more. I wanted to ask him to join me in private for a few moments, so we could talk. Then maybe I could wrap my head around what was really happening. Or he could pinch me, so I’d know this wasn’t a dream. But the words got stuck in my throat as Brent approached and settled down beside us.
“Hey.” His gaze raked over Donovan with nothing but pure loathing in his eyes. Donovan tensed beneath me, his arms wrapping around me protectively. “I just wanted to tell Olivia happy birthday.”
“Good. Now get the fuck out of here,” Donovan replied in a dangerous, low hiss. Wes leaned forward in his seat, no doubt ready to get between the guys if someone decided to throw a punch.
Brent smirked at him, his own body tensing.
“You know, you’re not the first one who’s tapped that. I was between her legs first. Remember that the next time she spreads them for you.”
I expected Donovan to jump to his feet. To fight. To cause a commotion. Instead, he remained still beneath me.
His voice came out in soft whisper that sent chills down my spine, “I’d be scared to go to sleep tonight if I were you, Brent. Dreams can be a real bitch.”
Donovan
The way her eyes stayed locked on mine left me breathless. We were on the same plane at the same time. I could reach out and touch her, kiss her — finally after two-hundred years of yearning. I couldn’t get enough, so I used every excuse I could to touch her—always holding her hand, rubbing her thigh under the table, or brushing my lips against the soft skin of her ear when I leaned in to whisper how beautiful she was or how much I missed her.
Every time I murmured in her ear or kissed her cheek, her face became a new shade of pink — and pink was my new favorite color. I found myself not even paying attention to whatever her friends were saying. I couldn’t do anything but watch her, burning every little thing into my memory, like the way she looked at me from the corner of her eye to find me watching her, causing her to turn away like she was embarrassed s
he’d been caught. I loved that she couldn’t keep her eyes or hands off me either.
From the moment I walked into the party, her mom had been watching me. Finally, she got busy with packing things away. As she was busy lugging things to the car, I leaned over to breathe in Olivia’s ear. “Dance with me?”
Her green eyes quickly found mine as a sweet smile tugged up her lips while she nodded.
Keeping her hand in mine, I pulled her to the center of the dance floor and brought her against my chest where our eyes locked.
“How? How’d you do it?” she whispered.
“I made you a promise, Livvy. I always keep my word.”
“But, I don’t understand. You said so yourself, you were a part of my subconscious.”
I placed my finger against her lips, silencing her. “Don’t overthink it, Livvy. Just be here, in this moment with me.” Slowly, and with our gazes fastened on each other, I leaned forward and pressed my lips to hers. It was like a shock that paralyzed me. Her lips were so soft, and her tongue was sweet from cake icing. The scent of jasmine surrounded me, creating a thick blanket of something I never thought I’d have again — her love, her comfort, her body against mine.
As our tongues moved together, everything else fell away. I didn’t notice the other people dancing around us or that her mom was probably about to march over and pull us apart or that there was a very jealous onlooker. I’d done warned him once and hoped I didn’t have to do it again. But based on the looks he was giving me, I knew I’d probably have to. But in that moment, the moment where I was swaying with Olivia with her lips on mine, none of it mattered. Only her.
My left arm snaked around her back, pulling her even closer, while the right traveled up her back, landing firmly between her shoulder blades. With the grasp I had on her, nobody could pull her away from me.
