BEAUTIFUL MONSTER

16 : Let Me Be Your Pimp Baby

"Morning," I blearily went into the kitchen, heading straight to the cupboard to get the Krave cereal box. As I hoisted myself up onto the worktop, eyes half shut and my hands digging into the lovely delights, I asked. "Aren't you supposed to be at work, Mum?"

She set down her cup of tea, and asked with a calm look. "I want you to be honest with me, Beatrice."

All my tiredness vanished and I shot up straighter, suspicious and apprehensive as to what she would ask. I turned to look at Ellie for any clues but she just shrugged helplessly at me, keeping her eyes on her toast. "Um, okay. What is it?"

"I won't be angry. Just tell me the truth... Are you pregnant?"

My jaw dropped and I yelled. "What? No!"

"Are you sure?" She asked sternly.

"Of course I am! Mum, I'd know if I'm pregnant - which I'm not!"

She sank into her chair, visibly relaxing. "Oh, thank god. I would've killed you if you were."

I raised an eyebrow and Ellie snorted, standing up and making her leave out of the house. "Bye, I'm going to catch the early bus."

"So, honey, what is it? Why do I hear you screaming your head off in the middle of the night and yesterday, getting up and puking?"

I paled, not willing to tell her the horrific nightmares I was having or how scared and terrified I was about Cade and Deacon. How they weren't even human. How Deacon murdered a man just for his enjoyment and how Mr Jones' death replayed in my mind over and over.

"Beatrice?"

"Mum, please, everything's fine. I'm going or else I'll be late. Bye,"

I ignored her calls, grabbing my bag and hurrying out of the house. My face was hot and slick with cold sweat by the time I got to the end of the street and I could feel my blood pumping hard in my ears.

I was freaking out big time and there was nothing I could do about it.

- **** -

"Who are you taking?" Kelly asked, applying her lipstick while holding out the small, pink compact mirror mid air.

I frowned, taking out a book from the shelves, glancing before putting it back. "Taking...?"

She sighed, putting away her lipstick and putting her hands on her hips. "To the dance? Who are you taking to the dance? Honestly Bea, it's like you're not here half the time - and the other you're all jumpy and shifty."

"Get down," I hissed. "I don't want him to see us."

"Who? Mr Hudson?" Kelly shot me a weird look. "What are you doing?"

"Kelly-"

It was too late. She opened her mouth and called him. "Hey, Mr Hudson!"

He turned, his black shirt tight against his impressive chest and his trousers hinting at toned legs. His hair was neatly combed back and his intelligent grey eyes swept over Kelly before stopping at me. "Hello girls...what are you doing?"

"Um," I grimaced, standing up and putting the book back. "Nothing,"

"She was hiding," Kelly offered.

"Kelly!" I slapped her arm, horrified.

"From you," she added sweetly.

"Thanks," I shot sarcastically. "You're a real pal."

He quirked an eyebrow, his hands stuffed in his trousers and amusement playing with his lips. "You don't like me?"

"No, it's not that," I mumbled, embarrassed and annoyed. "I was just, um, picking the book up."

"I see," he tried being serious before he laughed. "Well, I'll see you girls later."

"Wait," Kelly called and he turned. "Are you going to be at the dance, Mr Hudson?"

"Oh, I'll be there but I don't think it'll be appropriate of me to dance with one of my students." He let down gently, apologetic.

"Oh," she said, visibly upset before asking. "Maybe a quick dance?"

"Way to appear desperate, Kells."

Cade's eyes shot towards me before he smiled at Kelly. "Maybe," he walked off, waving a hand and I turned to Kelly, waiting a few seconds before exploding.

"WHY THE FREAKING HELL DID YOU HAVE TO TELL HIM I WAS HIDING FROM HIM?!"

In the distance I heard his amused chuckle and I burned red.

----*----

"I don't want to go," I moaned, as Kelly threw the gold heels at me. "But these shoes are so cute!"

"You have to go, everyone's going to be there," Kelly smirked at me. "Anyway, I heard there's been some developments in the whole Fran area, right, right? Am I right?"

"Ech," I made a noise. "We're friends."

She made a face. "Really? Just friends?"

I shrugged. "I don't know, to be honest. I mean, we've went on one date and we've texted a couple of times but that's it."

"Have you kissed?"

"It was a drunk kiss, I barely remember what it was like."

"Well, you need to hurry up and make a move before he gets the wrong message and you're stuck in the friend zone. I hear Jessica Adams has her eyes on him and you know what a slut she is."

I rolled my eyes, standing up and checking out my dress. "I sure do...do you think I should wear this necklace or...this one?"

She picked the gold necklace, and helped me put it on. I brushed out my hair, satisfied and happy at the way I looked and the ringlets Kelly spent half an hour perfecting. I turned to her cheeky green number, and picked up black flats. "These will go best with your dress,"

She placed them on and after a last glance in the mirror, we were ready to leave. Of course we had to first fail to avoid Mum's lecture and stern time of when she wanted us back but then we were outside in the cold, bitter air, shivering. "You didn't tell her it was moved to the town hall, did you?"

I shook my head. "Nope, you?"

"As if," Kelly smiled before linking arms, navigating our way towards the dance. "So, why doesn't your sister come with us?"

I shrugged. "Guess she doesn't want to. I wouldn't have come either if you hadn't forced me."

"Yeah, but she never goes out, like, at all. Don't you find that weird?"

"It's her choice." I said a little bit too sharply. "If that's want she wants to do, then who are we to say otherwise?"

The conversation soon ended but I couldn't help but wonder if Ellie really enjoyed staying home with a box of biscuits and old reruns of Doctor Who like she claimed or if she'd rather be at the dance with everyone else...



----*****-----

"So, where's your date again?" I asked Kelly, raising my eyebrow as we stood by the drinks table and watched on while everybody danced.

"He's coming..." Kelly turned slightly red and I turned to see who it was, almost spilling out my drink.

"ROSS?! Seriously? Your date is Ross?"

Kelly shrugged, tossing a mane of gold behind her shoulder. "It's only until I can find Mr Hudson."

"Oh," that seemed more likely and realistic that Kelly actually liking Ross. She moved off, grabbing Ross by the hands and ordering him to dance with her. I sighed, going over to the chairs and sitting down. Fifteen minutes later, I was fast growing bored of watching everyone have a good time and I was now wishing I had an actual date instead of just hoping Fran came to the dance alone. However, my knight in shining armour soon appeared. "Hey Bea...wow, you look pretty,"

I turned, smiling and tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "Thanks, you look nice."

"Just nice? I spent hours perfecting this look." Fran teased before holding out his hand. "Wanna boogie?"

I laughed, pointing at my heels and saying. "I'd tripped,"

"Nah," Fran waved me off, leading us over to where everyone else was dancing. "And even if you do, I promise not to laugh...well, not that much."

"I have a feeling you'd trip me on purpose just to get a laugh," I grinned, and then I was spinning into two more dances with Fran, not stopping once and having the time of my life.

I laid my head onto Fran's shoulder as the DJ announced there'd be a slow song playing next and just as it was about to start, I looked up, a content smile on my face that froze as I caught eye contact with...Deacon.

I stilled, my eyes popping and blinking rapidly as if it could change who stood at the far end of the hall, maintaining eye contact.

I was completely and utterly shocked at the fact -after his confession- he'd be here, amongst others where he'd obviously be seen. It was as if he didn't care anymore and it slightly scared me. If he was being reckless by showing himself then what else would he not be afraid to do?

Despite my internal worries and shock, I couldn't help but let myself appreciate the fine black suit he was wearing, that helped emphasise his lean, muscular build and strong runners legs. I only stopped drooling when the hint of a cocky smile threatened to tilt his lips. He slowly lifted a hand towards me, beckoning. Swallowing hard while a whole hoard of black butterflies roamed my stomach, I stepped away from Fran. "You know what, I'm just - I'm gonna step this one out. I need a drink and a rest. Sorry,"

I walked away, not even bothering to listen to Fran's response. I slowly made my way towards Deacon, composing my facial expression but letting my eyes dart side to side to make sure no one's gaze was on me or the man at the end of the food table.

"What are you doing here?" I asked as I pretended to ponder over the drinks.

"Heard there was a dance, and I couldn't help myself." Deacon sidled up, murmuring lowly and with amusement lining his voice. "I haven't been around so many young kids in ages, hell, it's refreshing!"

I shot him a weird look and he faltered. "That made me sound like a pedophile, didn't it?"

"Just a little bit," I muttered sarcastically, glancing over my shoulder to see Fran was dancing with another girl and Kelly had her claws wrapped around an uncomfortable-looking Cade. I contemplated calling Cade to deal with Deacon but realised it would probably attract the wrong attention.

Deacon placed a hand on my waist to bring my attention to him and he smiled wickedly down at me. "Now, now, don't be so rash, Doll. I'm not here to hurt anyone."

"How do I believe you? You killed Mr Jones!" I hissed, ripping myself away from him and feeling my anger flare up.

"He was old, okay? He was gonna die anyway. I just helped speed up the process." He rolled his eyes, flicking back his hair from his eyes. "Don't make a big deal about it."

I stared at him shocked and disgusted, my hand shaking to hit his arrogant face. "You sicken me,"

"Doll-"

"Honesty, Deacon, you absolutely sicken me. And I think you should leave. Now." I glared frostily at him, holding eye contact to ensure he knew I was being serious. I couldn't believe he had the audacity to joke about Mr Jones'. I briefly wondered why I had not yet told anyone about him killing Mr Jones, I knew I should but every time I tried to I faltered.

His face hardened. "I guess you weren't sickened enough to not kiss me back the other night."

"Leave Deacon before I get Cade here."

Deacon snorted, a look of disbelief on his face and he gestured. "What, you think I'm honestly scared of that dick?"

"You should be."

Deacon and I turned to see Ajax there with a calm look however his eyes were calculating and warning. "Ajax," Deacon grimaced. "It's been a long time, hasn't it?"

"Come outside, please. We do not need to make this anymore messy than it already is."

"Nah, I'm alright here. I've still got that last little cut you gave me." Deacon slowly smiled slyly. "How's the wife? And the kid?"

Ajax stared at Deacon, his eyes turning murderously dark and his jaw locked. He didn't reply. Deacon made a face. "I guess you're still sore about that, huh?" He sighed, shrugging. "You've gotta let the past go, Ajax. Anyway, you knew you weren't supposed to have a family. I just helped you."

"Deacon," I threw out with a look of anger and annoyance. "Why the hell are you such a dick?"

I could sense the rolls of tormented anger coming off Ajax and I knew Deacon was only adding salt to wounds. While I didn't understand the full story between them I knew it was obviously nothing pleasant thanks to Deacon - judging by his smug smile.

Deacon turned to me, throwing an arm around my shoulders. "Y'see, Doll. I'm the tormented soul here, being blamed for things I only did out of kindness. Like with -"

"Me Jones?" I asked, sarcasm dripping heavily from my voice.

"Exactly! I mean," He lowered his voice. "It's not like his kids were ever going to visit him. I just saved him a couple of years of loneliness and sorrow."

"Please step outside, Orion." Ajax intervened before I could reply harshly.

"I came here to dance and I'm not leaving until I do." Deacon said annoyed before holding out his hand to me. "Would you care for a dance, my sweet Doll?"

"Go rot in hell."

Deacon's smile dropped and he scowled. "You two are really destroying my mood, guess I'm just going to have to find someone else."

Ajax stepped forward, blocking Deacon's path and Deacon raised a challenging eyebrow. "You will not hurt anyone. I will not let you."

"I want to dance and I'm not leaving until I do." Deacon replied defiantly, before pushing Ajax away with a eye roll.

"Wait," I stopped Ajax before going to Deacon, trying not to make more of a scene than there was. "I'll dance with you, Deacon."

He slowly smiled, his blue eyes twinkling and he bowed lowly, holding out his hand. "Would you care for a dance, my lady?"

I nodded, taking his hand and smiling sweetly at him. "I do - and I hope to god I step on your foot."

He chuckled, leading me and pulling me flush against his hard body. He placed a hand on my lower back, taking my other hand and holding it mid air beside our shoulders. "Place your arm on my shoulder." He ordered.

I held his gaze before sighing and doing as he said. We slowly swayed to the music and he mostly guided me, humming softly under his breath. I took a deep inhale, loving the strong smell of aftershave that lingered on him and enjoying the feel and touch of him - not that I'd ever admit it. There was barely any space between us and the level of intimacy had electricity cackling between us and my state of well being to go crazy.

"I like this," he commented. "You're not a bad dancer."

"Yeah, well, don't get use to it. It's gonna be over soon and then you'll be dancing with Ajax and Cade."

He looked at me before slowly smiling. "Well, I guess I better make it worth my time, huh?"

"Deacon..." I warned, only a little too late. He tugged my forward, our breaths mingling together and our gazes holding. "Please don't, I can't dance, Deacon."

"I'll teach you, but you better hope you're a fast learner." He stepped to the right, going left, all the while softly swaying, and I stumbled after, trying desperately not to trip. Our faces were inches apart and Deacon held a smile that had my heart racing, I could feel tingles and sparks fly off from wherever we touched - "You have to trust me, Doll. I won't let you fall." He promised softly - and I knew it I was doomed as I fell heads over heels for this alluring and dangerous man.

He gently guided with his hand pulling on my own every now and then when he wanted to change directions, and his thumb stroked softly in a circle on my back. "Now here's the fun part," he warned before I was spinning forward and then letting out a shocked gasp before I was spun back against him. I could feel my heart thumping heavily as I stared directly up at him, leaning against his warm, solid chest.

"Please don't do that again," I begged softly, knowing what was to come and hating myself for anticipating for it.

"I won't," he murmured throatily, his hand moving up to rest on my neck. Slowly, without breaking contact, and eyes gradually closing, our lips met for a sweet but explosive kiss and I felt my breath stolen away from me. Every nerve in my body felt as if it was on fire and I couldn't help but kiss him back as hungrily as he was kissing me. It was like a battle to quench the thirst and I couldn't help but wrap my arms around his neck, pulling him closer towards me as he rested his hands on my hips.

He groaned, pulling away, resting his head on mine and saying. "We have an audience."

"I really don't care right now," I said, never taking my gaze off him instead kissing him again.

We met for a quick kiss again, both of us breathless from the mind-blowing exchanges and Deacon pulled on my hand. "Let's go outside."

Though my eyes were open it felt as if I was blind, I couldn't see anything or even think rationally. I was reeling from our kisses and my priority at that moment was to kiss him again, regardless of the fact I was despising him mere minutes ago. The cold, and chilly wind snuck its fingers inside my dress, raising chills as it glided along my skin and I couldn't help but shiver, huddling closer to Deacon.

He leant me against a wall, cupping my face and murmuring. "Now we can go undisturbed."

We were barely kissing that long, before a pointed cough stopped us and Deacon turned.

Ajax, Alex and Cade stood there, Cade with a disapproving look that made me feel slightly guilty and Alex looking on confused. "Are you two together?" Alex asked, causally dangling his sword at the side. "Because I thought you had a boyfriend, y'know, that brown, curly-haired boy?"

"Fran," I grimaced. "We're friends."

Deacon turned to me, an incredulous look on his face. "Are you making out with me even though you have a boyfriend? That is so not on, sistah."

"No!" I protested. "I haven't got a boyfriend."

"But you were almost making out with him in the Piano," Alex accused. "I saw you over your hot chocolate, giggling and cuddling."

Cade shot Alex an annoyed look, shaking his head with a look of disbelief. "Focus, Alex!"

"Am I your sideline slut or something? Huh Doll?"

"Deacon," I groaned, covering my face with my hands. "I have not got a boyfriend!"

"I thought what we had was special," He shot me a hurt look. "I'm not your pimp, okay? Although...I wouldn't mind. You can get all kinky with me, Doll. I'd look hot in a play bunny costume."

"This is ridiculous," Cade muttered.

"Oh," Deacon turned to Cade with a slow wicked smile, his eyes flashing. "Do you realise how easy it is to fool you idiots?"

Cade stepped back, eyes narrowed but it was too late. Deacon whistled loudly and snarls and growls were fast coming towards us. I gaped and gasped at the sight before us as Cade, Alex and Ajax tensed, stepping away.

Three figures, all with black lines across their faces came limping towards us, their mouths open, dripping disgusting saliva and flashing sharp teeth. They issued these horrendous snarls and loud snorts as they inhaled and then exhaled. They were in tattered and ripped clothing, their eyes different, almost normal were it not for the mean red glistening in the middle of their iris. Before them they pulled along unconscious people, who I recognised with a horrified look as students. Blood was slipping from their neck and they had lines upon lines of scratches across their faces. I could faintly see the soft rise and fall of their chests and I was slightly relieved to find out they were still alive.

I couldn't tear my gaze away from the frightening and horrific things, almost backing against the wall as I made eye contact with one. I could feel fear drum heavily in my chest and my throat felt like sandpaper, making it harder to draw a much-needed breath in.

"Now," Deacon said, grinning. "I think I'll leave you to it. Have fun, boys." And he whistled again and suddenly as if they magically gained speed, the things were running, the harsh sounds ripping from their mouths as if they were suffering from borborygmus.

Deacon wrapped an arm around me, pulling me away and saying. "Now how about we talk about you using me as if I'm your pimp."

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