Tainted Rose

by Yumoyori Wilson

  “Oh. Okay.” He gave me a light smile, the gesture didn’t reach his gold eyes which made my heart drop.

  “Daniel.” I used my serious tone, needing answers. I noticed his body tensed up by the change in my tone, but his face returned to a blank expression. “Are you positive nothing’s going on? I mean...are we...we’re okay, right? I know we haven’t gotten much time together, but...” I trailed off, biting my lip.

  I didn’t think any excuse would help whatever was going on with him. I just wanted him to rely on me. He was hurting, I just didn’t understand why.

  “I’m fine” he replied.

  “Lie.”

  I felt my shoulders sink as I frowned at his response, Hope’s sing-song voice whispering in my mind – the one word was laced with anger. Why would he lie?

  He opened his mouth, but his eyes began to glow, the golden glow dimmed slightly, but stayed in place – Azriel took over.

  He walked towards me, standing before me in five steps. His hand brushed against my cheek as he stared down at me.

  “Good morning Princess. Don’t look so sad. It hurts me to see you in such dismay.” His angelic flowing voice helped calm my anxiety that had begun to build within me.

  “Daniel...just lied. He never lies, not to me anyways. He’s been so distant lately. I don’t know what to do anymore. He won’t talk to me...or the others. Is there something I’m missing? Is it about the Midnight thing? Does he want an explanation? Does he hate us...does he not like me anymore?” I rambled, the words that pooled in my mind came out as I confessed my fears to the angel before me.

  He let out a heavy sigh before pulling me into a warm embrace.

  “Princess, please. Don’t think like that. Daniel is dealing with something from his past. He still cares about you and knows you and the others want to help. He just needs to sort it out, okay?” he reassured me, pulling back to look at me.

  I nodded, his words didn’t help the sadness within me.

  “They’re all the same.”

  The words echoed in my mind. Midnight...

  I felt so frustrated with the overall situation. I knew Midnight’s dislike for Daniel was taking a toll on me – affecting the way I felt for him. He didn’t deserve to be judged so quickly, yet I struggled with the triangle of emotions between us, the tension palpable. When will this end?

  “Makoto. May I have a word?” Hope requested softly.

  I closed my eyes, giving her the reigns. I was done with worrying about this issue for today. I wanted to enjoy the day with Marcus. I’d deal with this tomorrow.

  I allowed the darkness to take me away.

  ~HOPE~

  “Princess?” Azriel’s concern filled voice greeted me as I opened my eyes.

  I looked up at him; his eyes grew wide for a moment before a wide smile formed on those tempting lips of his.

  “Hope.” The way my name rolled of his tongue made my heart skip a beat as I smiled back at him.

  “Azriel.”

  We stood there for a moment before he sighed.

  “I’m sorry on Daniel’s behalf. I know lying is one of our pet peeves.”

  “I get it. But, I will tell you that Daniel has to make up his mind of what he wants from Makoto which includes Midnight. Just because she’s a spirit now, doesn’t mean her acceptance of him doesn’t count. Mako takes Midnight’s opinion seriously and somehow Midnight’s feelings affect Mako’s mood the strongest compared to all of us. There are just so many unanswered questions that are collecting in her mind and we don’t have time to answer them till we get back to Heila. If he can’t share what’s troubling him, he should not assume Midnight will be as forthcoming with hers.”

  As Mako’s spirits, we knew her and Midnight’s likes and dislikes. Some may alter here and there, but trust was something when lost, would be difficult to earn back. They may have been lenient to Eli and Elias, but I doubt the same treatment would be given to Daniel.

  “I understand.”

  I was ready to leave but a question popped into my head.

  “Are...you still interested in me?” I asked hesitantly, my voice low as if I sang a sad melody.

  We’d barely seen each other, let alone had time for a long conversation, having only a few minutes during Mako’s and Daniel’s morning hair sessions to come out and say hello. I enjoyed his company and little quotes of wisdom. But with everything happening with our hosts, I worried he too wasn’t confident in whatever was brewing between us.

  His hand wrapped around my waist, pulling me against him before his other hand lifted my chin; those tempting lips pressed against mine.

  I moaned as we deepened the kiss; my hand pressed against his bare chest, wanting to feel his muscles. He pulled away, chuckling.

  “What?” I questioned as I tried to stabilize my rapid breathing.

  “I’d love to devour those smooth lips as I pin you to a wall, but an annoying dragon shifter is nagging me that you’re late for their date.”

  “Oh snap! I better get Mako.” I was ready to call out to her before his grip tightened around me. I looked up at him in confusion.

  “You get distracted like the Princess.”

  “I do not.” I argued before realizing I’d lied, his eyebrow inching up.

  “Ugh. Fine. A little.” I confessed.

  He placed a kiss on my cheek before inching away slightly.

  “I’m very interested in you, Hopefilinia. Till next time.” He pulled away, bowing before turning around and walking away.

  “He’s confident in his love for you,” Midnight mentioned quietly.

  I know...and dangerous to be around too long. I wouldn’t be able to ignore any request he presented with that seductive, melodic voice.

  I glanced at the standing mirror to my left, seeing my flushed face. I groaned. Fudge.

  “Dangerous indeed,” Midnight concluded.

  Chapter Twenty

  “Is this a bicycle? Like the song from Queen that you want to ride?”

  I stared at the metallic blue and silver contraption with immense fascination as my hand reached out to touch it; the cool metal made me shiver with anticipation.

  “It’s a motorcycle. You can ride it just like the bicycle from the song, but it has an engine like Matthew’s car. So, no need to pedal our way fifty kilometers to town,” he explained.

  I looked over his appearance for the thirtieth time, licking my lips as I hid my hands against my back, fighting off the urge to let them rub all over him.

  He wore leather pants similar to mine. His fitted navy-blue shirt was snug against his muscular, broad chest and clung to his slim waist, a large skull on the front in black and white. The bottom half of the shirt had rips and tears on purpose to give a rugged appearance. Topped off with the leather jacket that had gold zippers and matched my pant design; he looked smoking hot.

  He’d trimmed his beard to small stubble, but left his long hair intact, the wild mess hanging way past his biceps and down his back. I watched as he pulled a hair tie off his wrist before tying up his hair and miraculously making it into a sexy man bun, the entire process was in slow motion to my mind as I gaped at him. He didn’t understand what effect he had on my body.

  He walked forward before pulling me into a side embrace, looking down at me as I blinked out of my daze, a pleased smile on his lips.

  “Am I distracting you?” he quizzed

  “You’re hot in leather,” I admitted, surprised by my flirtatious tone. When did I become so flirty with Marcus?

  “Ryuu rubbing off on you.” Lexi entered my mind, yawning. I noticed how quiet they’ve been.

  You guys sure have been sleeping a lot.

  “Yeah. We’re taking a break from bothering you non-stop. Don’t get comfortable though. We’ll return to full power once we reach Heila,” Lexi teased, fading away before I could argue.

  Ugh, evil I say.

  He gave me a kiss, his hand slid down to my ass, gripping it gently as I moaned into his mouth.
r />   “We won’t get anywhere if you tempt me like that Firefly,” he admitted against my lips before pulling away, walking over to the front of the bike to retrieve two shell-like things with a strap and a glass front.

  “What are those?” I asked, tilting my head.

  They reminded me of the protection device, the picture book showed a shifter wearing when he rode a bicycle for the first time.

  “These, are helmets. We have to wear them when we ride this type of vehicle for our safety. Just in case we lose control and slide or fly off the bike,” he proposed.

  My eyes grew wide. “Flying off? Are we going to fly off?” I questioned, horrified. Why would you ride a machine that flings you off? Please don’t tell me these are those silly rollercoasters that humans think are fun.

  Marcus laughed, my inner monologue clearly becoming outer as his shoulders shook.

  “No, Firefly. This motorcycle is as safe as a car. It’s the driver who determines whether you’re going to fly off or not,” he explained. He leaned down and licked my sensitive spot on my neck, before whispering in my ear. “Don’t worry. I’ll keep you safe and sound,” he promised.

  The sexual tension would kill me if this continued.

  He stepped back and placed the helmets on the seat before picking up a gift bag that was hidden behind the motorcycle.

  “What’s that?” I questioned, eyeing the pink, sparkling bag.

  “It’s for you. Seeing as the Starlight gods wanted us to dress alike for today, I think this will be the icing on the cake.” He presented me the bag; my hands grasped it before my eyes inspected it.

  I reached into it; a smooth, textured material met my hands before I pulled the item out.

  I squealed before opening it up to get a better look at it.

  “A LEATHER JACKET! Oh my Starlight! It’s exactly like yours!!! We match! Can we take a picture?” I couldn’t hold back my excitement, lifting the jacket in the air as if it was a gift from the gods themselves.

  He gave me a sleek smile before helping me put it on. The jacket fit me perfectly.

  “Perfect. I’m glad you like it Firefly, and yes, we can take as many pictures as you like.” He pulled out his phone before pulling me into his side as he smiled up at the camera.

  We took a few pictures; Marcus took some singles of me next to his motorcycle stating he wanted it as his wallpaper. I didn’t know how he’d get my picture on his wall, but I didn’t question such dynamics.

  I was already pumped to be sitting on his motorcycle, my helmet securely on my head as I tightened my grip around his waist; my body pressed against his back.

  “Is this your only ride?” I questioned, wondering if he had a car like Matthew.

  “Nah baby. My other ride is a dragon.”

  I laughed, shaking my head at his fair statement. Dragons totally rule.

  The motorbike roared to life, the vibrations between my legs sent chills up my body as Marcus twisted the throttle lightly, the roar exhilarating. He peered over his shoulder, a wicked smile across his face.

  “Firefly, you ready? I drive fast so make sure you cling to me.” He yelled over the loud noise.

  “Yes. I’m safe with my dragon,” I happily replied as I laid my head on his back, preparing myself.

  He squeezed my hands that were around his waist before it returned to the silver handle and gripped it, his leg lifted off the ground as we began to move.

  I practically squealed as we began slow, leaving the garage on the side of the house to the entrance path.

  “I’m going to speed up now, Mako,” he warned me.

  I gave him an extra squeeze around his waist, encouraging him to go faster. I took a glance back at the house, a ginger haired male relaxed against the gate, a glass of brown liquid in his hand.

  I summed up the courage to remove one of my hands to wave at him before we began to speed up; his figure became smaller and smaller as he waved back.

  Bye-bye Kai, see you later.

  “C’mon Firefly, I think we should head back. It looks like it’s going to rain.”

  “Give me three more minutes, there’s one more thing I want to pick up!” I called out while looking through the aisles of the jewellery shop.

  We’d spent the entire morning and afternoon shopping around the entire town.

  Marcus showed me around, helped me take pictures and taught me about the different sights, giving me the background of each shop and gadget as we walked around.

  We’d grabbed a ton of stuff, picking up many items to pack up and send to Heila. He didn’t know when exactly he’d go back to Earthala or get a chance to pass by the marketplace in Heila, now that they’d be returning to duty upon arrival. Therefore, he wanted to make sure we were stocked up.

  He’d treated me to a variety of food, my stomach roared to the sky above upon our arrival. I’d completely forgotten to grab some cookies before leaving so Marcus bought lunch, something he called a hamburger and fries. He said he loved this restaurant because many of their dishes were based off food from Earthala.

  I didn’t blame him for his excitement; the food was amazing. Midnight decided to drop by as we passed by something called a pastry shop – various cookies and other sweets displayed at the window, catching our attention.

  Marcus didn’t even ask. He strolled in and came out with a bag filled with different types of cookies and sweets.

  Midnight ate a handful of cookies until she decided to retreat, apologizing for interrupting our date. I didn’t mind, and it looked like Marcus didn’t mind either, looking pleased with Midnight’s appearance.

  Now we were at a jewellery shop, Marcus looked for a specific stone at his friend Junho’s request. The owner was in the back checking his inventory, so I decided to walk around.

  What can I get them?

  I turned to the next aisle, bumping right into someone causing both of us to stumble on our feet.

  “Oops! Sorry.” I quickly apologized as my eyes locked onto the female before me – her striking Tyrian eyes made me freeze in shock. Holy Starlight!

  “I’m sorry. I wasn’t looking. Did I scare you?” the stranger questioned; her confusion was apparent. She had black hair, which was tied in a ponytail, and was the same height as me.

  I could see a glimpse of her markings which were located on her medium sized breasts; her cleavage peeked out from the purple dress she wore. She wore black combat boots and was holding a small, stylish leather backpack. She had a bag filled with craft stuff she most likely just purchased.

  “Huh?”

  “You said Holy Starlight.”

  “OH! Sorry, I talk out loud by accident,” I apologized.

  “Ah. Well, my apologies.” She bowed her head.

  “No worries...what’s that in your bag?” I questioned, my eyes became distracted by the reflective coloured beads peeked from inside the open bag.

  “These? They’re crystal beads! You can make crafts and stuff with them. Each colour has different powers. You can make a bracelet with one set of beads and it can heal or summon an element depending on the ones you choose. If you use a balance of multiple ones, they can do different skills as well,” she explained.

  “Is it only for female shifters?” I questioned, hesitantly.

  She shook her head before smiling softly, her eyes peeking over my shoulder at Marcus who was staring at his phone.

  “There’s a section for boys and girls. My boss is waiting for me, so I have to leave, but I can show you real quick which ones are the best. Who are they for?”

  “My...um...lover...lovers? Hmmmm, let’s just go with love interests.” I blushed, scratching my head as I let out a nervous giggle.

  “Multiple interests huh. Hehehe, totally fine by me. Why choose?” She winked at me, her bright purple eyes and mischievous smile reminded me of Ryder.

  She helped me pinpoint which ones to get for each of the boy’s and Eli before I thanked her.

  “Um...can I ask a weird question?” I voiced
softly as I picked up the basket filled with goods, ready to ask Marcus if I could buy them.

  “Sure! I like weird. Normal is totally boring.” She shrugged.

  I like her.

  “Do you have an older brother...or siblings?” I questioned.

  She gave me a sad smile.

  “Nah, I’m an orphan, but I got adopted by a family in Wintalyn. I have a pretty good job that allows me to travel around the realms. I’m here for work,” she explained, solemnly.

  I frowned. I’d seen a picture of Anya at her death anniversary, the little girl’s vibrant eyes, hair colour and couture of her face looking so similar to the girl before me. Wouldn’t that be my luck if there was such a chance of her still being alive.

  “Oh. Sorry for asking such an intrusive question. You just reminded me of one of my boyfriend’s sister who went missing cycles ago.”

  “That’s depressing. Hey, you never know. Maybe, she’s out there somewhere. As long as you have faith in the stars, you never know what to expect.”

  I nodded giving her a genuine smile. Too bad...she’d be a nice friend.

  “My name is Anna, but it seems everyone can’t remember the “A” at the end, so simply call me Ann. A pleasure to meet you...um,” she introduced before trailing off.

  “Makoto. Everyone calls me Mako.” I introduced myself.

  “Mako. I like it! Very unique.” She shook my hand.

  “I know. I’m one of a kind.” I joked as we both laughed.

  “I better go! I hope we get to meet again Mako!” She gave a curtsey before taking off in a sprint, turning back once more and waving again.

  Marcus came to my side, tilting his head.

  “Who are you waving to?”

  “A girl who helped me pick these! She was super nice.” I presented the basket of beads and other materials. He smirked.

  “Is Eli’s craftsmanship side rubbing off on you?” he questioned.

  “It’s fun to make things! Plus, you guys are going to be returning to duty when we get to Heila, right? So, we won’t get to see each other,” I pointed out, swallowing the lump in my throat.