Irina? Who is that? That’s not me. Why does this woman want me to come with her?
“I’m sorry.”
She closed her eyes and nodded. Maybe she knew this Irina wouldn’t follow her. Wouldn’t stay by her side.
“Very well.”
My vision turned back – a cruise ship in the distance. Where am I? What a huge ship. Where is it going?
With that very thought I watched it explode; screams and cracks of wood and sounds of shattered glass echoing in the dark starry sky. I gasped; a sense of dread took over my well-being.
“Scar.”
No, the ship! The people are all going to die. I need to help them. I have to save them.
“Scar.”
Maybe I can use the wind and water for aid. There will still be casualties, but I can try and save as many people as I can.
“SCAR!”
I opened my eyes, bright amber ones greeted me. I blinked, confused.
“What?” I mumbled, my eyelids already began to fall as drowsiness consumed me.
“Baby, you okay?” Jaxson questioned. I relaxed in his embrace, my mind already drifting.
“Did she have a vision or dream?” I heard Michael question.
“I don’t know. Most likely a dream, or she would have been reaching out for a pen and paper.” Jaxson replied.
I relaxed, enjoying Jaxson’s crisp scent which reminded me of the smoky smell of the fireplace.
I tried to stay awake; the lingering image of the ship burning on top of the ocean, the cries and shouts for help made me shiver. I felt something warm wrap around me; a hand brushed my back, comforting me.
“Relax, Scarlet. You’re okay. We’re right here.” Michael soothed; his voice sounded like a melody ringing in my ear.
Yes, I’m okay. Just a dream…
“Cece’s sick? She never gets sick.” I crossed my arms over my chest.
“Come check for yourself,” Vinzent replied, opening the door to allow me to enter.
I walked into their suite, walking down to see my best friend huddled in a blanket, reading on her e-reader.
Her eyes were puffy, and she looked like she could barely keep her eyes open. Her messy, blonde hair was tied in a bun.
“You look like shit.” I greeted. She looked up, frowning at my comment.
“Who the fuck made me sick? I never get sick. I bet it was that little kid touching everything with his slimy fingers. Ugh.” She complained.
“The little kid touched you?” I inquired.
“Yes! The kid had the audacity to come and brush his hands on my cover up! I had to stand there while everyone else was like ‘Aww, how cute.’ Getting germs from that demon child is NOT cute. Achoo!” She sneezed, groaning.
“I’m gonna die.” She cried.
“You’re not gonna die. Stop being overdramatic.” I huffed. Vinzent came over with a bowl – the steam rose up from what looked to be chicken noodle soup. He placed the white bowl on the black coffee table, sitting next to Cece.
“Stop complaining and eat something. You’ll be fine in a day or two.” Vinzent ordered.
“I won’t be fine. Make sure you and Scar get all my assets. Tell Moonlight he can have that stuffed fox plushie he likes to cuddle with when Scar brings him over.”
I rolled my eyes. That’s my best friend for ya. Dramatic as fuck.
“Listen to Vinzent and get some rest. It’s three days before New Year’s Eve. More than enough time for you to heal up, but you need sleep.” I urged.
“Fine.” She placed her e-reader next to her; Vinzent grabbed hold of the bowl of soup. She eyed him for a moment; his eyebrow went up. I knew Cece loved to be in control, but Vinzent looked like he wasn’t going to have it.
She sighed; her shoulders slumped before she opened her mouth – Vinzent gave her a spoonful of soup.
“Good girl.” He whispered. I smiled. You could see the love they had for one another was strong. My mind recalled the image of Christian and Cece talking. I still don’t get why I had reacted that way. I should tell the others.
Cece turned to face me; her eyes did a good up and down of my appearance.
“Why are you in disguise? I thought today was a rest day for you and the guys to figure out what’s going on with the case?” Cece wondered, turning back to face Vinzent who had another spoonful of soup ready.
“I didn’t want Michael and Ethan having to work on my appearance again. Too much of a hassle and waste of energy on their part. I’m fine with staying in disguise. Christian’s doing the same. I’ll just go chill around the ship.” I disclosed.
“Want me to come?”
“You’re sick as a dog. You’re not coming. I love you guardian, but you need some time off too. I’ll get Christian to come with me.” I replied.
“He looked depressed after you left. That’s not his usual character.” Cece mumbled, looking away for a moment.
“Ya. I need to apologize for that. I think...I just got way into my character.” I sighed; my hand went through the loose curls of my brown wig. I had to thank Michael for finding something so natural looking.
“Just be careful, Scarlet. Especially around that Akane girl.” Cece’s eyes locked on mine, their usual blue-green appearance was a stormy grey.
“You get weird vibes from her?” I inquired.
“Yes. I don’t like her, or that guy who bumped into you. There was a third one, but I couldn’t catch his appearance before I lost him. Just be very cautious until we put a finger on who’s planning this whole fiasco. It could be just a hoax, but no one reports to PINC unless it’s a matter the regular police won’t look into.”
Vinzent nodded.
“Especially with the number of shifters on this cruise, the police wouldn’t be much of help finding any leads. We’re the best to handle the situation. I just hope we can pinpoint who the suspect is before this alleged bomb goes off.”
I nodded in agreement. Why do I feel like I’m forgetting about something important?
“Maybe you forgot your phone.” Aurora yawned, waking up.
“Totally the phone.” Serenity replied, sounding just as tired. I groaned, realizing I did forget my phone. Thanks for reminding me.
Cece and Vinzent gave me a confused look.
“Sorry, I gotta go back to my suite and get my phone. Aura and Serene forgot to tell me.”
“Why are you calling us by weird nicknames?” Serenity asked.
“She’s doing it as payback for not reminding her,” Aurora replied.
I ignored them.
Cece nodded before sneezing. Vinzent put the soup down, grabbing a Kleenex.
“Have fun while I die.” Cece sniffed, thanking Vinzent before she blew her nose.
“You’re not gonna die.” Vinzent and I said together. He gave me a heartfelt smile.
“Enjoy the sun. Tell the boys, I’ll chill with them on New Year’s Eve.”
“I will. See you both soon.” I headed out the door, walking back towards my suite.
I can’t believe I forgot my phone. I hope the others don’t get mad.
I turned the corner bumping straight into someone.
“Ah shit, sorr—” I began but trailed off; my jaw dropped. Holy Starlight, this man is gorgeous.
The man before me blinked; his bright lime green eyes locked onto mine as his hand rested on my waist, having stopped me from falling back due to the impact.
He had bright blonde hair with dark green highlights. He had a black nose piercing, giving him a punk vibe. My eyes lowered to his defined chest – his black button shirt opened to reveal his six-pack. I noticed a similar dragon tattoo like Akane’s on his neck – this time the dragon head was on the right pec of his chest, the body wrapped around his neck.
“Sorry, beautiful. Didn’t see you.” He apologized, taking a step back before bowing. I blinked out of my daze, shaking my head before bowing my head.
“No, sorry. It was my fault. I was in a hurry.” I apologized.
“Well, a pleasure to meet you.” He replied with a Japanese accent as he winked, licking his lips. I blushed. I could see the heat in this man’s striking eyes as they roamed my appearance – a simple black bikini top and black shorts.
“Irina?”
I leaned to my right side; Christian walked towards us. He held my phone in his hand.
“Alexander,” I replied, relieved to see him. I had fallen asleep last night and hadn’t gotten to apologize for my reaction. I glanced back at the man I’d bumped into, his hand still on my waist. Christian noticed; a frown formed on his lips before he glanced up at the man.
“Is this your boyfriend, Miss?” The man questioned; a Japanese accent laced his words.
“Yes,” I answered; my inside flipped nervously as the two continued staring daggers at one another.
“Alright. Glad you didn’t get hurt. I’ll see you around cutie.” He winked again, leaning down and kissing me on the cheek. I felt his hand leave my waist; his footsteps echoed in the hollow hall as he departed.
I wanted to say something, but I was shocked at the intimate gesture. I nervously glanced up at Christian whose eyes were locked on the man who was already down the hall.
“Christian,” I whispered, sliding my hand onto his chest. He looked down at my worried expression. His hand wrapped around my waist – those luscious lips pressed against mine. This kiss was soft and sweet.
“Hey, baby. You okay?” He greeted, concern laced his husky voice.
“Ya. Sorry, don’t get mad. I bumped into him and lost my footing. That guy helped me, and then you showed up.” I apologized, not sure why I felt the need to defend myself.
He sighed, pulling me into him.
“Christian?” I whispered, unsure why he was hugging me. I knew we were both in disguise but seeing as no one was around, I didn’t mind using his actual name.
“I’m sorry about yesterday. I don’t know why, but I felt like I hurt you. If you’re mad, I’m sorry.” He whispered. I felt him plant a kiss on my head, tightening his hold on me.
“I didn’t understand either. Don’t be upset. I’m not mad at you. I think something must have influenced us to feel that way?” I suggested.
“We thought the same too. Jax and the others are on patrol around the boat. They aren’t in their disguises like we are. I’m hoping they find something odd.” Christian wondered.
“Does that mean it’s just you and me?” I inquired.
“Yes. You’re mine for the day.” He replied.
I smirked, my hands lowered to his hips. I went on my tiptoes, kissing him. He groaned deeper with a hint of aggression – his tongue slipped into my mouth.
“No kissing in the hallway, you two.” We pulled away at the familiar voice; Ethan grinned from ear to ear as he swiftly spun around and walked away.
“That ass.” Christian scoffed.
“He has a point. We can’t be as intimate in the hallway.” I pressed my lips against his Adam’s apple. He let out a moan; his hands gripped my hips.
“Fuck, Scar. Don’t turn me on like that.” He confessed. I giggled, knowing he loved when I kissed him anywhere along his neck. Only the boys and I knew the dark secret he hid.
I moved back; my hand wrapped around his as I pulled him along towards our suite.
“Let’s have some fun on the beach.” I hummed, looking over my shoulder to see Christian’s heated gaze. This would be a pleasurable morning.
Chapter Seven
“Mhm. Dammit, Christian. Don’t you leave a hickey on my neck! I’m not chasing after Ethan again to fix my glamour.”
“You should go bother him. Serves him right for interrupting us, again.”
I was relaxed in Christian’s arms; both of us wore sunglasses to avoid the sun’s rays as we relaxed in the exclusive area of the boat.
We laid on our backs on the massive, white beach chairs – one chair having enough room for two people. I was in a red bikini, while Christian wore red swimming trunks.
We’d attempted to have sex when we reached the suite but got interrupted by Ethan, again.
“He forgot his laptop.” I voiced.
“Don’t care, he deserves payback,” Christian responded.
“Is it true demons hold grudges?” I questioned, lifting my black shades before glancing up at him.
“Yes, and he’s on my list if he interrupts me from having alone time with you again. I didn’t interrupt when you guys were having fun on the couch.”
I blushed; my eyes grew wide as I continued to look up at him.
“How do...are you pulling a Cece on me?” He chuckled, shaking his head.
“No. I came back for my watch, but you two were busy. Didn’t want to rudely interrupt,” He admitted.
“I appreciate it. But no more hickeys.”
“We’re not working today.” He argued.
“I know. Can you wait until tonight?”
“The guys will be back.”
“Nope, they are going out for drinks and won’t be back until past twelve.” I turned to my side; my hand trailed along his chest.
I wondered what expression he hid behind those sunglasses.
“Just us.”
“Just us,” I repeated.
“Okay.” He lowered his mouth to mine.
We relaxed in each other’s arms for a while till Christian’s phone began to ring. He pulled it out, frowning at the screen.
“I’ll be back babe. Jax’s calling.” He gave me a quick kiss, shuffling off the beach chair. He slid his thumb across the screen, standing up and walking away indoors and out of view.
Must be the case. I might as well relax while he was gone. I laid back down, enjoying the warmth of the sun.
“Champagne Miss?” I looked at the waiter – a glass of sparkling champagne in his hand.
“Sure. Thanks.” I nodded, taking his offer.
I sipped on the sparkling drink – enjoying the delicious taste. I seriously needed this. We hadn’t had any downtime since the jet ride. This case was so uncalled for, and we still didn’t have any leads.
My eyes lingered on my bare hands. The boys had suggested I wear my gloves today. I didn’t understand why Jaxson and Michael were being the most persistent in the matter. I would have been fine with it if I was Scarlet Sinclair. But, with this brown wig and my markings hidden with Ethan’s glamour and Michael’s expertise, I was Irina Locksworth, and she did not wear gloves in such hot weather.
Jaxson and Michael had said I had a nightmare last night. I had absolutely no recollection of it, but I’d been whimpering loud enough to wake Jaxson, and he was a deep sleeper.
I hadn’t had a nightmare for quite some time, and I would have gone into trance mode if it was a vision. I’d brushed off the topic, stressing on the fact that we couldn’t do anything about it. If I couldn’t remember, it most likely wasn’t important. That’s what I hoped, anyway.
I finished my champagne, relaxing back against the comfortable cushions of the white beach chair. I wondered if Junho could find where they make these. It would be awesome to grab a few for his poolside.
I heard a ping – my phone vibrated three times before settling. I reached out for the device on my right, sliding the screen to view the text messages.
Mr. Grey: Irina my love, I’ll be back in a bit. Business partner from Ireland would like me to catch up with his colleagues. The ones I’ve introduced you to before from Korea, Australia, and Canada. I won’t be long. Don’t venture off unless you’re looking for the washroom, which is just outside the glass doors. I love you and see you shortly.
I smirked at the screen. Christian rarely texted but when he did, there was always some type of code. I already knew he referred to Jax and the others. I didn’t think Michael looked anything near Canadian, but I heard they were very multicultural up there.
I wrote a quick reply, wanting to ensure he knew I received his message and would only venture to the washroom if necessary. They always said I wandered off, straight into
trouble, but I didn’t believe them. I simply minded my own business. Trouble just tended to pass by and confront me head on.
I relaxed, placing the phone back on the table next to me. I slipped my shades back on. I should use the washroom soon. Maybe I’ll rest a bit more.
I was ready to relax and close my eyes when familiar blonde locks with dark green highlighted hair caught my attention – the man from early today stood by the bar at the corner of the patio area. I took my time to analyze his appearance – his back now in view as he talked with the bartender.
My eyes focused on the continuation of the dragon tattoo – noticing the tail didn’t end around his neck but flowed down his back. I noticed the Japanese characters written intricately down his lower back, stopping at the end of the dragon’s tail.
I narrowed my eyes – easily reading the Japanese words: Hokosaku Clan.
He’s a part of a clan? I knew there were few clans remaining in Japan, especially in regard to the shifter race. Kai had given me a rundown of the country during the Christmas holidays, explaining that there were a number of massacres that occurred back in year 5005. Rare shifters such as vermillion birds and cobras were hunted for their multiple and rare abilities.
If the families did not agree to assist in whatever plans the bad clans had for such rare creatures, they plotted to murder their entire family.
Many went into hiding which made it difficult to find if any of the clans remained. His clan must still be big for him to not be afraid to hide his background.
I grabbed my phone, sitting up. I should just go to the washroom.
I got up, making my way to the glass doors on my right. There were private, luxurious washrooms that needed an access code to enter. I pulled up the barcode from my phone, scanning it against the black entrance pad, next to the doorknob – Irina Locksworth, VIP guest, showed on the screen before the door clicked open. I turned the knob, making my way in.
I closed the door and sighed. I don’t see why they made unisex washrooms.
“Not many people on here get the VIP treatment, right?” Serenity pointed out.
“Ya, it would make no sense to have a male and female when there’s only one hundred of you out of the five hundred on this ship. Aren’t rich people usually picky where they use the washroom?” Aurora asked; curiosity laced her low voice.
Visionary New Years Page 6
