When Clarke storms through the door that evening the vexed expression on his face tells me all I need to know. His shoulders hold an amass of tension from the day's events, making them appear larger and bulkier than usual. And he looks rough. As if he's just vacated a boxing ring after a few unsuccessful rounds.
I'm not at all surprised to see Logan following behind sporting an impressive black eye. He gives me a half smile, wincing a little in obvious discomfort but still seeming satisfied with himself. Ezio is last to appear, unharmed I might add. Obviously, he didn't aggravate Clarke too much. Sensible.
Clarke and I's gazes meet and he says nothing before ascending the stairs.
"He'll get over himself," Logan assures me clapping me on the back in a very 'part of the gang' fashion. That doesn't sit well with me. Particularly taking into account that I need him amicable for my plans to work tonight.
Earlier I'd exchanged further correspondence with the mystery person willing to take me to my mother. A plan had been set in motion, and all I needed to do was take care of Clarke. That would be the easy part. I hope.
It's not long before the others decide to hit the sack. Akira is the last to go as he finally manages to tear his eyes away from the computer screen. Tucking it securely under his arm he turns to me.
"Are you avoiding going to bed?" He asks, that smarmy but cheeky grin present.
"No," I lie shifting my position on the couch.
"If you're worried about him, sleep in the guest room," he chuckles, one eyebrow raised towards the ceiling.
I don't need any further explanation of who he's referring to. Shrugging my shoulders I lift my hand to cover my mouth, faking a long drawn-out yawn.
"I'm not scared of him," I assure Akira, who chuckles again warmly before heading for the stairs himself.
Left alone, with only the dim light of a desk lamp, the cogs begin turning in my mind. My heart races as a heavy realisation overtakes me. I'm actually going to leave here. For good.
Tonight.
I can't suppress the rather overwhelming wave of guilt that floods over me. Not only that but deep sadness. For many days now the guys had been my only company. I know it wasn't through my own choice, but I'd witnessed their close-knit family-type bond, their ridiculous banter and a fair few emotions too. Maybe I'm stupid to even think it, but there's a part of me that will miss it. They were the closest thing to a family that I'd experienced in a long time. One of them is part of my family. Just one I never knew I had.
Being away from the gang will undoubtedly make me vulnerable.
But it won't make me weak.
Having endured everything in the past few weeks proves that I'm so much stronger than I ever believed. With my entire world thrown upside down, and learning my life has been full of lies and deceit. I could have given up a long time ago. But my burning thirst for answers drives my somewhat foolish actions.
With the strategy set out clearly in my head, I make my way upstairs. The bedroom light is on, confirming what I expected. Clarke's awake. Taking a deep breath I push the door just enough so I can slip inside. His eyes immediately find mine, watching my every move with firm suspicion. He sits up in bed, phone in hand, completely shirtless. Trying my damnedest not to stare at his godly physique and imagine what's under the covers I force a smile that I hope looks genuine.
"Hi," I squeaked meekly. That's a good start.
"Princess," he acknowledges me with a curt nod. "You're up late."
YOU ARE READING
Bloodlines
Action......................... There's no such thing as Happy Families. Octavia thought she had a happy family life until she met Clarke Winters. The day her world was turned upside down. He thought capturing her would be a piece of cake but Octavia will...
