New book idea - A Drone of My Own - First Chapter - Rough draft

Chapter 1 (approx. 13 pages)

“We need an attache for a regional manager for approximately three to six months.” I looked across the simple oak desk at a man whom I did not know, but he radiated restrained power as though he breathed it in daily. I frowned slightly as he continued. He did not ask for any information from my end, or my qualifications. I didn't expect I could fill this position at all.

“My nephew has returned home for a period of time to visit his family, so this position is definitely temporary.” Then he stared at me hard.

“I understand, sir. I'm not sure I would fit this position though. I'm good with my hands, but I lack any specialized training at administrative duties.” He nodded.

“I know. This position was purposely created to give my nephew a job, and that is it. You'll run any errands that the manager requires, and he'll be responsible for you within the confines of our company policies. My policies.” I cleared my throat lightly.

“I understand, sir.” He nodded. The ease with which I accepted his words didn't seem to impress him, or cause him to reconsider either.

“There is an apartment on site that he uses, which you will now use until he returns. Here is a copy of our company policies, and our HR manager will go over them with you.” He stood up, so I followed his lead. He didn't extend his hand, so I kept mine at my side. There was something about this man that spelled power and control at the same time. I couldn't quite put my finger on it though.

He walked me to his door, though it was not an escort. He merely went in that direction, and if I was smart, I would follow. He frowned a little, and looked at me a bit closer.

“You're not going to say anything?”

“You've explained your expectations, sir. Those policies are what you expect, and the HR manager will be responsible to familiarize me with them. The regional manager will be responsible for my behavior as well. Since it is temporary, no future position should be expected.” He didn't smile, but there was an acknowledgment in his eyes. What that meant, I did not yet know.

But eventually, I would come to know that look quite well.

“You've met Mr. Rodham.” Mrs. Belmand, the HR manager, said but didn't not require an answer. “He expects certain things while you're a part of this company.” She gestured that I should follow her. This tall robust woman, probably in her early thirties, led me to another office, however, this one seemed to be more for show, and used to impress others. It was all candy, but no depth. There was nothing of this woman in it. It reflected prestige, and adornment, yet Mrs. Belmand exuded power, and control. It was confusing to say the least.

“The VP's office shall do for your entry training.” That made sense. A vice president might want to show off a little. “The pad he gave you contains all the policies on different things you might encounter within the company.” She turned towards me and stared at me hard. “One thing of note you might want to keep at the forefront of your mind. Mr. Rodham interviewed you, but that does not mean he is your friend. If he asks you a question, or tells you to do something, you do it. Otherwise, all instructions come through myself, or the regional manager.” I nodded.

“I understand. Its business, not personal.” She frowned.

“What do you mean?”

“I'm being hired for business purposes, not as a personal favor. I'll do the job that is expected, within the confines of his words.” She cocked her head.

“Explain – his words.”

“His policies. He wrote them, correct?” She nodded. “Then what he wants me to know of him is there. Everything else is secondary.” She turned away.

“You have no formal training in human resources.” It was a statement, not a question. “How do you know this?”

“An architect, a writer, or any person who creates something, will often put who they are within their creations. A writer has beliefs that often influence their words.” She nodded, and once again, he saw that look, but it was in her eyes this time.

“Very well. I will escort you to the apartment he wishes you to occupy for the next few months. Spend the next few days on these policies. Use the computer to contact corporate security for information, or myself for instructions when you feel that you've completed the current task.” I followed her, just a bit to her side, but still behind her. If I stood directly behind her, I might be distracted by her physique, and miss some important information. Mrs. Belmand was almost my archetype for female physiques.

The complex was huge, but the apartment would be considered lavish where I grew up. It was an all glass unit, with electronic dimming, and darkening glass. Mrs. Belmand smiled a little as she opened the door after she keyed in a door code.

“This is the apartment you'll be staying in.” She walked inside, and expected me to follow. “What do you think?” She asked, and kept her gaze right on my eyes, and face.

“I think Mr. Rodan takes care of his family.” She arched an eyebrow.

“Oh? Explain.” I swallowed a small lump. She didn't bristle at my statement, but I could tell I might be close to an unseen edge of a cliff.

“Its lavish, from my perspective. Its secured within the facility grounds, to keep him safe, and he has access to almost anything he could desire.” I cleared my throat and got right to it. “Since this is a secured apartment, is there a default code, or do I input a new one as a new user?” There was that inscrutable look again.

“Computer. Identify.” Another voice rang out in the apartment.

“Mrs. Belmand, Executive VP of Human Resources.” The voice was almost exactly like hers. It was softer, and a little more sultry, but still eerily similar.

“Input new user, Mr. Edan Adanney. Access limited to the scope of the occupant of this apartment.” She kept her eyes on me.

“New user inputted. Voice print verification required.” She nodded her head.

“Computer. Voice print verification. Mr. Edan Adaney.” I spoke clearly and made sure I spoke with no extra inflections other then what I normally used. Her look didn't change, but grew sharper for some reason.

“Input access code.” A holographic numerical display appeared before me.

“Computer, change display to an alpha-numerical display.” The interface disappeared and was replaced with a holographic keyboard. I quickly typed in a thirty two digit code, and when I looked back up, she had a frown on her face.

“Explain. You know about these types of interfaces? And how did you know to speak plainly?”

“I followed your lead. I speculated that a holographic interface could be changed, and therefore could use a more complicated password.” Her frown faded, which was followed by a more speculative look.

“It appears you surmised correctly. Get comfortable, and feel free to explore the apartment. The former occupant's personal items were removed, and it now stands ready for occupancy. The kitchen was restocked, so you may make your meals here as well. Check out employee boards for any additional information regarding your location within the complex and applicable amenities.” She left without a goodbye, or a hand shake.

I looked around slowly, and whistled softly.

“Computer. Current occupancy mode, and available modes.”

“The system is set to day time, however, can be set to nighttime any time of the day. It can also be changed to privacy mode, where all the outside windows will be darkened so no outside person will be able to see within the unit.”

“Initiate privacy mode.”

“What do you think?”

“He's sharp, and intelligent. Completely unexpected.”

“Agreed. Keep an eye on him, and see if he is able to follow instructions.” He turned towards Mrs. Belmand.

“Be sure to get some sleep tonight. You look tired.”

“I will, father. Good night.”

“Mrs. Belmand? There is an emergency at the apartment.” Connie opened her eyes. Her father's voice was clear, and excited for some reason.

“Explain.” Her father grunted at her clipped tone.

“The hooligans have returned.” She smiled.

“I'll watch the monitor.”

“Woo hoooo!” I turned quickly as three sloppily dressed youths skateboarded into the apartment. I was taken a bit by surprise when the first one flipped off his board, and stood up in a hand stand, on my shoulders.

“What the....” I looked up, and noticed a smile pass his lips. A sadistic smile. I lowered my eyes and saw the skateboard of the second teen being swung.

Right towards my face.

“Damn. Father, did his file say he had martial arts training?” There was a chuckle on the other end of the line.

“He didn't put it down.” Mr. Rodham watched as his new employee fell to his knees, and the skateboard sailed over his head and clipped his friend.

Square on the jaw.

“Idiots.” I muttered. Before he had time to react, I got up, threw a quick straight right and crossed his eyes. I now looked at the other boy who was dumbfounded for only a brief second. He had sailed into the kitchen, but it was easy to see his fallen friends from the open concept kitchen.

“Bastard!” He yelled, turned his board about, and started to put on some speed.

Unfortunately for him, I was over two hundred pounds, while he sat at about one hundred and thirty. The impact to his jaw as he was deflected closed his eyes just as easily as his friends.

“Computer. Call security about a break-in of three suspects.”

“Acknowledged.” A soft voice spoke.

“Computer, display video logs for the door they entered in.”

“Accessing. Voice verification confirmed. Input access code.” The holographic display appeared and I quickly punched in the code.

“Hmm.” I watched for a moment. “Computer, rewind to where they input the code, and magnify the panel.”

“Accessing.” The panel appeared and the first young man quickly punched in a six digit code.

“Interesting. Computer. Inform security, and Mrs. Belmand that we have a security leak.”

“Calling security. Sending a message to Executive VP of Human Resources, Mrs. Belmand.” Her father chuckled.

“You do like to play that role, don't you?” She smiled.

“Its useful. Call the security manager down to the apartment. Lets see if he sees what our new employee sees.”

“If he doesn't, he doesn't belong in that job. See to it.”

“Yes, father. Shall I let him have a little more accidental access?”

“Do it. See what other secrets he can find for us. Something doesn't smell right.”

All three young men sat grumpily on the floor until the security manager and two officers arrived. They jumped to their feet, only to sit back down at my hard look. Mrs. Belmand gave me another one of those looks.

“We have permission to be here! Our friend....” I interrupted.

“Is on vacation. Any authorization he gave you has been rescinded. Which means you are on private property illegally.” The security manager shrugged his shoulders.

“Mrs. Belmand, these boys don't normally cause any harm to the property, and they are friends.” Mrs. Belmand looked right at me.

“Do you have something to add to that?”

“Computer. Play video log for the time of entry, magnify on the panel.” A simple device flashed the holo panel, and four keys glowed brightly. He quickly pressed in six digits and the door opened. The manager shrugged his shoulders.

“He had a key cracker, Mrs. Belmand. All that it means is he broke into this apartment.”

“Do you have anything else to add to that?” She asked me.

“The code was six digits long. Two of those digits were duplicates of the four lit keys. There is no way they could find that code, punch it in flawlessly, and know it was six digits long without them being given the code in advance. The key cracker was fluff.” Mrs. Belmand turned her back and stopped at the door.

“Mr. Smith. See me in my office first thing in the morning.” She glanced at the other officers. “Escort those off the property. If they return, break bones.” They snapped a quick salute.

“Yes, ma'am!” Mr. Smith looked at me with a snarl.

“Just who the hell are you?” I shook my head.

“A temp, hired to occupy this apartment only. Now if you'll excuse me, sir, I need to study the company policies. I have a feeling I will need to know a few things quite soon.”

“You have no idea, Edan.” He chuckled under his breath. He quickly typed a simple message to his daughter who would understand what it meant as soon as she read it.

She smiled as she read his message, after her father retired for the night.

“Fire him. Replace temporarily until proper replacement can be head hunted, or trained.”

“You've made quite the impression already, Mr. Adaney. I wonder how else you'll shake up things around here.” On a whim, she smiled softly, and opened her monitor. His low gravelly voice rumbled out of the speaker.

“Computer. Will the company allow self defense training?”

“It does. There are several company funded programs on the facility premises at various times during the day.”

“List them.”

“Karate. Kenpo. Jujitsu. Taekwondo. Boxing. Wrestling. Kick boxing. Muay Thai.”

“Kenpo, and Jujitsu. Find me a daily class for each that will not interfere with any errands I'll need to perform for the company.”

“One morning and one evening class scheduled. One hour reminders will be given.”

“Computer, open a large display, thirty inches high by forty eight inches wide, and load the company policies onto the display.” A display appeared. “Increase font size by three hundred percent. Good. Give me a holographic scroll on the arm of this couch to move the text when I'm ready.”

“Interesting.” She murmured, and closed the display.

A pleasant shiver went down her spine. Quite an impression.

“Computer. Mark this spot, and highlight previous two pages for further study. Close display.”

“Acknowledged. Mr. Adanney, please fill out your nightly report before going to bed.” The level of context the computer used was unusual, so the programming was top notch.

“Explain.” The first page of the policy flashed onto the screen, with a line highlighted. He had only skimmed over it, so he missed the implication of it.

“I see. Nightly reports of all personnel on site must be filed. A rough draft may be initiated, then deleted, but the final draft may be read by management, and referred to at any time.”

“Affirmative.”

“Alright, begin recording rough draft. First day. Relatively quiet except for some would be thieves who broke in. My interview went quickly, and I met one of the management staff. Mrs. Belmand.” He said her name in a low tone. “She was....incredible. However, I must not get distracted. Something doesn't feel right already. How does a seasoned security officer miss such an obvious error? Are there other things he's missed? Wait, the code those kids used! Computer?  Has that code been used elsewhere? Halt rough draft. Delete.”

“Hm, so I made an impression on him.” She read the rest of the rough draft and smiled. It was an easy way to delve into the thoughts of their employees. Often, people said more then they would normally say in rough drafts that they thought were being deleted.

“Computer, send this report to my father. He'll want to see that his hunch was correct.” She heard the simple ting of a bell that signaled her the report was sent, and sat down in her favored chair.

“Computer, access the files Mr. Adanney has asked for. If there are security issues, ease up the restrictions enough to allow him to follow any trail that was left.”

“Explain, Mrs. Belmand.”

“He'll want access to certain areas of the plant he should not be in, and records that his security clearance doesn't allow.”  With little time to process the new security clearance, or for Edan to use it, the computer spoke.

“A report has been filed, Mrs. Belmand. Shall I load it up for you?”

“Who filed it?”

“Mr. Adanney.”

“Load it.” His gravelly voice rumbled over her, and she felt a small thrill as it entered her ears. It almost felt like a deep resonating drum as he spoke.

“First day report. A break in has revealed some interesting information. A seasoned security officer did not see simple security problems. A detailed search of where the code has been used other then this apartment shows that it was used at a door to a warehouse, which houses specialized equipment for interstellar ships. The strange thing is that the computer told me more about what goes on inside that plant then it should of. I will speak to Mrs. Belmand in the morning. The computer seems to be giving me the same security clearance as the former occupant, and he also seems to have had far too much clearance to do things he should not have. Maybe inventories should be checked, as well as the inventory on schematics. Something is not right. End of report.” Connie growled.

“Computer, was this report completed before his security access was lightened?"

"Affirmative."  Connie closed her eyes.

"Send this report to my father.” A voice crackled over the line.

“Already received. Wake any staff necessary to start these hunts. I want to know what has been going on. Also, arrange an accident for my nephew. Nothing severe. Broken arm and leg. A lesson that I hope does not have to go any further.” She shivered.

“Understood. Computer. Wake the warehouse staff, and have two security divisions meet us there. Mr. Smith is not to be woken up, and if he is there, dismiss him from my presence. I will see him in the morning.”

“Yes, Mrs. Belmand. Orders have been sent.”

“Do not elaborate to anyone who found the information. He is our secret weapon for now. Understood, Mrs. Belmand?”

“Of course."  She was surprised he even had to remind her of that.  "You know my name, father. Use it.” She said irritably. He smiled.

“Not during work time, Connie. You know that.” She grumbled a little in spite of the soft tone he had in his voice when he said her name.

“I haven't learned how to completely unplug myself during work hours, but I will.” He smiled softly as he watched his daughter leave.  She was one of only two weaknesses, and the only real family he had left, save for his worthless brother.

“So much like your mother.”  He said fondly as a memory forced its way back into his mind, and made him pause.

Connie's mother.  The only reason he's never taken another lover, and his only other existing weakness.

Packmates Forever

This is a simple short story that I could not stop writing until it was finished.  I leave explanations up to the imagination, and will not interpret it.  It felt too personal, even though I now share it. 10 pages of text, so enjoy it in the short parts it was originally written in, and separated by a few lines.

“A strange question.” She raised an eyebrow delicately.

“Oh? Why is that?” I smiled a little at my friend.

“Do you see the woman at the table near the door?” She nodded, her lip curled in a dismissive snort.

“Who could miss her? She's flaunting herself so vulgarly, its disgusting!” I nodded.

“Who is looking at her?” She looked around.

“Nearly everyone! Men and women are almost drooling over her!” Then she looked my way. “Except for you.” I smiled slightly. “Why?”

“What did you call her behavior?” She frowned a little, then nodded. “That's why. Do you see the woman behind me?” She lifted her gaze.

“I almost missed her. She's sitting quietly, and reading.”

“How is she dressed?”

“Well, to be honest, plainly. A nice shirt, I guess, and a long skirt.” I nodded.

“What else?” She frowned.

“What else? I don't understand.” I lifted an eyebrow.

“You saw the other woman's behavior, so what do you see about her?” She took another look, a closer inspection on a woman that I had thought deserved more then a cursory glance.

“She's quiet. Undisturbed. Neat, and...holds herself... well, she is sitting alone, but uses her manners. Strange.”

“What?”

“Now that I look at her, she's quite pretty.” She looked a little bit longer. “She's a little bit plump, or thicker then the flashy one, but....she looks better.” She turned back to me. “What do you see?”

“Modest. Demure. Not coy. Not flagrant with her looks, but she has them. When she walked in, most people barely noticed because the other one was causing such a stir. I noticed though. Hard to miss someone with that sparkle in her eyes.” My friend frowned.

“Sparkle?”

“Life. She's experienced it, bares the scars, but is not defined by it. That's what I see anyway.” I put my cup down.

“So, what do you want in a woman?” She smiled. “I know you think you answered, but you only said something about her looks, and a little on her demeanor.” I smiled.

“I hoped you had missed that.”

“Nope. Spill it, mister!”

“Alright. Loyal. So loyal, she would be almost obsessed with me. My problem is that most of the women I meet don't feel the connection that creates that quality. I even have a strange dream that spells it out.” She smiled.

“This sounds too good to let go. Keep going.” I shook my head.

“Its gonna sound strange. I wake up to find her laying beside me. She's already tied my hands to my side, and she watches me closely as I wake. Then she smiles, and says what I have waited to hear. 'You belong to me now.'” My friend frowned.

“She breaks in, ties you up, and you like it?” I laughed lightly.

“I told you it was strange. Call it an attachment to someone who shows me loyalty to an extreme degree. If I am all she wants, and goes to any length to get me, she has my attention.” She nodded slowly.

“I understand. Your ex just up and left, and showed you more then once your value....to her.” I swallowed, and colored lightly. It was a fair, but uncomfortable assessment. “She still haunts you?” I shook my head.

“She left her stamp, her mark, but she no longer haunts me. She was the past.” My friend laughed.

“And the past can stay where it is. Buried.”

“What is it about hunting, and wolves, that you find so appealing? You've mentioned that your dream woman seems to be hunting you too.” She asked, a bit of a gleam in her eye. I swallowed a lump in my throat that suddenly formed. Somehow, I felt completely naked under that gaze.

“Well, wolves are loyal, so that's self explanatory.” I stopped. I knew she wouldn't be satisfied with that explanation. “Alright, not only are wolves loyal, but they stay with one mate, normally for life.” She smiled across the table, and though she was my friend, it felt like she had just peeled away a layer of protection that I wanted to keep in place.

“That makes sense, considering your history.” That knowing smile, and gaze made me drop my eyes again.

“And hunting, well, a hunter has a few options. They either set up bait, to lure an animal to a place they want them, set up a tree stand, and wait for the prey to come to them. They can also track them. Another method is to become part of the environment, unobtrusive, and eventually the prey just accepts that you're there, like them.” She smiled a soft smile.

“I think I understand. Do you think she's hunting you?” I shrugged. “Aren't you worried she might be?” I chuckled.

“Its a dream, right? She doesn't harm me, so should I really worry?” My friend laughed lightly, and that lifted my eyes. “What's so funny?”

“You never could wear a mask, or a second skin to keep those uninvited guests from taking a look into your mind. You actually hope she's real.” I colored a bit, and she laughed again, but not unkindly. “You want this uninvited guest to be real, so you can feel wanted!”

“Not wanted. This feels different.”

“You want her obsessed with you! To never give up, and stay with you no matter what! Why?” This time, it was my turn to smile.

“She never gives up, and always shows up when I fall asleep. She's loyal, and somehow, in spite of being her property, it feels right.” My friend shook her head in amusement.

“She's a dream! How can you be owned by a dream?”

“I have no clue. I guess I'll find out tonight.”

I heard a throaty chuckle as I opened my eyes. I could feel her warm breath on my throat, and the mesh of her mask brushed against my chin.

“I heard you murmur as you woke. I'm glad you still remember me.” She lifted the bottom edge of her mask, just enough to expose her lips, and she laid them on mine. She put her mask back in place and snuggled in closer, paying no mind to the ropes that held me firmly in place. “I do not like you looking at other ladies in coffee shops.” I cleared my throat.

“How....”

“Did I know? I know you didn't stare, and for that, I will not punish you.” Her strong arms tightened about my waist. “But you belong to me. Never forget that.” She sighed contentedly as her leg slipped over my thigh. “Now go to sleep.”

“Will you be here in the morning?” She chuckled softly again.

“Maybe some day I might stay, but I haven't really caught you yet. Keep struggling. It will only make the trap hold you tighter still.” She lightly bit my chest. A subtle reminder of the teeth marks she left me that first night. “Its so much fun to hunt the wolves who think they are the kings of the forest. My prey is in sight, and no matter how fast you run, I will have you.” She lifted her mask again and kissed my lips ever so lightly.

“Now go to sleep and remember. I'll stay only when you know me in the light of day.” Obediently, I closed my eyes, but could not see her smiling lips as I growled in frustration. Then she whispered softly in my ear.

“You're not the only wolf that hunts at night.”

“Something is bothering you.” My friend noticed right away, but that was not a surprise.

“Oh?”

“You've been a little more quiet then usual.” I nodded.

“Yeah, I guess its her.” I gestured to the younger woman at the front of the shop. She still wore the skimpy outfits, very short skirt, and no cares as to who saw what she wore underneath.

“What about her?”

“Bothers me, that's all. Did you see the bruises?” My friend shook her head. “On her arms, and on her ribs where that top reveals them.”

“I see. She's being abused.” I nodded. “Do you think that's why she behaves this way?”

“No idea. It might be, or its her way to control something in her life. You know what its like.” She nodded solemnly, and lowered her eyes. Too many people know what its like.

“Come on. I don't want to keep seeing this.” We got up to leave, but the younger woman was far too loud, and pressed just the right buttons.

“Did you get an eyeful, old man?” She asked, with a snort and a laugh. She was relaxed in such a position that the whole coffee shop could get an eyeful, if they so desired. I turned towards her, and kept my eyes up. She frowned angrily.

“Why do you do this to yourself? You're better then this!” I turned and walked out the door amid some pretty vocal derision. My friend chuckled.

“You just had to say something, didn't you?” The more demure woman at the back of the shop hid a smile.

“Finally. I wondered when it would happen.”

As always, when my friend and I sat down with our tea, the shop was bare. It quickly filled up with the rabble that always got their looks at the young lady, but this time left disappointed. She was there, but she wore a pair of jeans, and a fully buttoned up top. She sat at her table, alone, with none of her former admirers.

“Well, that's quite a change. Do you think....” She started to ask, but I got up before she could finish. She smiled as I approached her table.

“Hello.” I said plainly, a simple greeting. She looked up with a frown.

“Oh, its you! I hope you're happy! Look! No friends, and I'm all dressed up too!” I smiled softly, which took her off her guard.

“Why don't you join us? There is more then enough room.” She looked at my friend squarely, then back to me.

“Won't I be bothering you both?” She asked, with quite a bit of a tone in her voice. My smile disarmed her again.

“My friend doesn't mind, and neither do I.”

“I knew you wouldn't be able to sit back and watch her sit alone, you old dog!” I smiled.

“That's Wolf to you.” And for the afternoon, she had a smile on her face that was neither pasted on, nor twisted sardonically. After we left the shop, the woman who always sits behind us smiled, tears in her eye.

“Just as I remembered it.” She smiled and rubbed a tattoo on the inside of her wrist. “One more visit, you old dog, then she's all yours to look after.”

I opened my eyes slowly, and felt the familiar warm body pressed against me. I murmured my appreciation, but frowned too. I wore no ropes this time. She sighed, and pulled me even closer.

"Its time for me to go." I sat upright.

"What? Why?" She smiled softly, pulled her mask up a little, and kissed me just as softly. The mask didn't hide, just obscured. "Is it because of her?" She smiled again.

"Its just our time, love. Remember my words. In the deepest shadow, and the darkest gray..." I closed my eyes.

"The wolf will come, and turn night into day. Packmates forever." The words could barely pass my lips. I wrote this for her only a month ago, but never told her.

"Those words will be forever branded on my heart, love. Goodbye." She disappeared out the window, as silent as the shadows of night, and left a deep pit where a hole had once been.

"Rrrr!" I growled something terrible, a feral reminder of who I really was, and sat for a few moments with my head in my hands. I couldn't go back to sleep now. The bed was more empty then it had ever been before. I needed to go for a walk.

The lights and sirens outside startled me out of my misery. There were police cars everywhere, an ambulance loaded a covered stretcher, and Coral, the young woman from the coffee shop, sat outside on the curb. She was barely dressed, speckled with blood, and had a look of shock in her eyes. No one paid any attention to her.

"Coral? Are you alright?" I took off my jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders.

"He's dead! I shot him!" I frowned.

"The one who did this?" I gestured to the bruises, and a new one just under her eye. She nodded.

"He saw us at the cafe! He was going to kill you!" I nearly growled, but said nothing. She didn't need to know. "I grabbed the gun, and we fought! It went off!" She started to cry, and I gathered her close. My own problems disappeared easily in the face of hers. An officer walked up to us.

"Sir? We need to take her to the precinct. She already told us the story, and the investigators are confirming it. We just need to collect what she may have on her hands, and skin, and finish her statement." I nodded, and helped her up.

"Which precinct?" Her jaw fell open as I took the information, and left my jacket on her shoulders.

"But....your jacket!" I smiled.

"I'll pick you up at the station in a few minutes. Keep it until then."

Coral was still in a state of shock when I picked her up from the station, so it was little more then me guiding her to my car, and buckling her in the front seat. She sat silently as I drove the few miles to my apartment, and passed her building.

“It will still be a crime scene. They won't let you in.” She started to cry.

“Where will I go?”

“You can stay with me for a while. You can take my bed while I take the couch, or if you prefer, you can take the couch. Its your choice.” She bit her lower lip.

“But you don't know me.” I nodded.

“That's true, but I know enough for now. There are neighbors on either side of me, so if you feel like screaming, you can. You'll be safe there.” She lowered her eyes.

“Is anywhere safe for me?” I gripped the steering wheel firmly, but released it, just in case she saw my anger. Not at her. At what happened to her.

“Take a look around. The bathroom is on the right, in case you want to freshen up. Get that blood off of you.” She nodded and seemed to slink into the bathroom, like a pet who had been too badly beaten not to expect more of the same.

Coral looked in the mirror, saw the bruise under her eye, and the haunted look still buried there. Was she mourning the loss of the one who gave her the bruise? No, she knew that much. Tonight, she would have her answer.

“Is he just like all the rest?”

Coral sat upright and screeched. She barely heard a crash in the bedroom not far from the couch she slept on. She chose the couch for safety reasons. She didn't trust beds. Vile people sleep beside you in beds.

Strong arms picked her up gently and held her to a large warm body. He held her and rocked her while she whimpered and sobbed helplessly, and each cry that wracked her body tore at the heart so recently broken. He held on to her just as much as he held her.

After an hour, her tears stopped, she lifted her head, and her eyes. She smiled shyly.

“Sorry. I didn't mean to wake you.” That soft gentle smile soothed her senses, but also put her on her guard.

“Its alright. I couldn't sleep anyway.” He put her back on the couch, and stood up. That made her frown. She was vulnerable. Didn't he want her? “Did you want some ice cream? I have some in the freezer.”

“Okay.” She said, a little bit puzzled. After he gave her a bowl of chocolate ice cream, she watched him closely, and even gave him several signals to let him know she was open to whatever he wanted to do. He never rose to the bait, and that made her even more confused.

“Goodnight, Coral.” When he got up, she cringed, but started to relax as he walked away. “You know where I am if you need me. If you're hungry, you also know where the food is. Help yourself.”

“What the hell!” She sat helplessly for several minutes, but as her fiery personality refused to be put off like that, she quietly slipped into his bedroom, and barely moved the bed as she slid up to his side. She smiled as she heard a soft murmur from his lips.

Taking some comfort in his response, she lowered her lips to his chest and lightly nipped at his skin, and slipped her leg over his thigh. He turned towards her with a sleepy smile, but came instantly awake when he saw her smiling eyes.

“Coral! No!” She frowned.

“But....” She cringed as he lifted his hand and started to cry as he gently rubbed her cheek.

“This is why I can't take you up on this invitation. You're too badly injured.” She looked up at him, her tears on her cheeks, which made him feel even worse. He hated to cause anyone's tears, let alone this tender young woman.

“But....I'm not hurt that bad!” Her tears still flowed.

“These tears are not from physical pain.” He smiled softly. “You're hurt in here,” he gestured to her chest, “and in there.” He pointed to her eyes. “You cringe in fear, and I will never take a lover who is afraid of me. Nor will I ever cause her fear.” He sat up, gathered her close, and carried her back to the couch.

“Please! Don't leave me alone!” She begged him. He put her down on the couch, sat down, and pulled her back into his arms.

“Go to sleep, Coral. I'm not going anywhere.”

“You!” Coral exclaimed. A husky voice chuckled, though her face was obscured with a mesh mask. She stood behind Coral, her hands on her shoulders.

“Do you remember me?” Coral nodded.

“You said I would find him! The wolf!” She smiled beneath the mask.

“Do you remember the words I told you?” Coral nodded.

“In deepest shadow and the darkest gray, the wolf will come and turn night into day! I remember!” She said sardonically. The woman held up her wrist before Coral's eyes.

“Do you know this mark?” Coral looked at her wrist. There was a tattoo of a wolf, with that simple poem, but above it, was a familiar scar.

“No! Its not possible!” The woman smiled softly, and wrapped her arms about her shoulders. She held her so gently that Coral began to cry.

“I know how hard this is for you. I remember it well. I just hope that old dog appreciates this.” She disappeared as quickly as she appeared.

“Coral? Who are you talking to?” He appeared at the open door to the bathroom, and looked at her quizzically.

“I...ah....no one, I guess. I was just thinking out loud.” She smiled to wipe away any of her doubts.

“Oh? About what? How do you like your eggs? Omelet? Over easy?” She bit her lower lip.

“An omelet?” He nodded.

“One three egg omelet coming up. What were you thinking about?” She smiled and followed him into the kitchen.

“I'm thinking about getting a tattoo.” He nodded.

“Lots of people have them. Me, I have too many scars. Like this one.” He held up his wrist.

“What the hell!” She rushed around the counter and picked up his hand. “How...what....”

“I know. It looks pretty bad, but its only superficial. I burnt my arm a number a years ago, and it healed like that.” She rubbed it softly.

“It looks like....a....wolf.” He smiled.

“Yeah, everyone says that, so I changed my name to Wolf.” She looked up and stared into his eyes, and tears began to roll down her cheeks.

“In deepest shadow, and darkest gray....” his face turned pale white.

“The wolf will come, and turn night into day. How do you know those words?”

“She told me.” She started to sob, and his arms came around her shoulders instinctively. “She had them tattooed on her wrist, with another tattoo above it.”

“A wolf, which was just below a scar.” Coral pulled back and held out her wrist. Wolf fell to his knees and wrapped his arms about her waist.

“Packmates forever.” A familiar voice said softly. Coral lifted her eyes, saw an older version of herself at the doorway, and saw another hand reach for hers.

“Come, my love. She's alright now. The wolf has got her.” She only saw his hand, but as the older Coral turned away and disappeared through a glowing doorway, she saw the inside of his wrist.

It was a scar in the shape of a wolf.

Wolf Pack Dreams - Part 2

Coral cringed as a familiar voice slithered down her spine and made her feel dirty as it touched her.  The expected hand fell on her shoulder, but to her surprise, it lifted quickly.  She looked behind her and found another familiar, but somehow comforting sight greet her eyes.

"Bob, what have I told you about putting your hand on her shoulder?  And I don't care if you have some excuse about needing to get her attention!  You wouldn't try to get my attention, or the boss's attention that way, so keep your damned hands off!"  The grey haired man spoke with authority, but he was just another worker within the building.

"Hey, you don't even work here!"  Bob backed up a step as the larger man seemed to growl under his breath.

"Correction.  I don't work for you."  He dismissed the slimy man with merely a look, and Bob took the opportunity to leave the area.  He looked down at Coral, but was careful to keep his eyes locked on hers, and not let them fall lower then the jawline.

"Thank you."  She was about to say something else, but he shook his head.

"Don't.  Next time, say no."  She frowned.

"I beg your pardon?"

"Fools like that only find confidence in those they feel they can bully, or intimidate.  Don't let them.  Tell him to keep his hands off.  If he becomes agitated, leave the room, and go to your boss.  Don't let him gain power over you."  He ran his fingers through his hair, a sign of his anger at the situation, and growled lightly.  Then, to her surprise, he left the room.





Coral pondered his words for the rest of the day, and since Bob had not shown his face again, she had no way of testing his assertion.

Night came as it always did, and once again, she was deep within the forest, and covered in sweat.

"Why?"  She yelled.  "Every night and I still come here!"  A growl to her left startled her.  She turned and saw a face she knew, and sighed.  It was her gray furred wolf.

"Finished running?  And here I thought I would have some more fun before the night was done!"  She turned to the monster, and growled.

The dream took on a life of its own from that point.  The wolf stalked up to her side, growled and snarled at the monster in her dreams, and she lowered herself down to all fours.  She growled and snarled along with him.

His laughter ran over her, but she shook it off like water, and lunged forward.  The wolf kept pace with her and two large bodies crashed into the slimy creature who filled her nightmares with more blackened and terrified cries then any other nightmare ever could.

Teeth and claws ripped and tore the beast apart.  Her teeth.  Her claws.  The wolf snarled and growled while he watched her rip her monster to shreds.

Yes, her monster.  She finally had to admit it to herself.  She drew the nightmares to her with her fear.  For the first night in many years, she had conquered her fears, and her dream was her own.

She wiped her chin and spat out the putrid blood on her tongue.  the wolf bounded back and laughed like a hyena again.  She jumped off the body that no longer moved, and ran after him.  She was still on all fours, and he led her on a chase that made her smile.

The wind rolled over her fur and she saw the forest with new eyes.  Rabbits ran here and there, owls hooted overhead as they hunted their prey, and her wolf ran ahead of her, a hyena's laugh that drew her on.

She caught him at the water's edge, and they rolled, a tangled mess of limbs, into the ocean's warm waters.  Normally this time of year, they would be freezing cold, but within her dream, they were as warm as bath water.

She smiled as she pinned him to the warm wet sand, and a gentle paw wiped a blood stain from her cheek.  She closed her eyes and leaned into that gentle touch.  She growled in surprise as she opened her eyes.  Somehow, he squirmed out from under her.  Instead of continuing the game, he sat beside her, and pasted himself to her side.

She smiled, followed his lead, and looked to the sky.  Together, they closed their eyes, and howled to the moon.

The moon saw her tears every night for well over a decade, but tonight, it saw something else.  It did not witness her torment, or her nightmares.  It did not see the monster win, or see her relive her agony.

Tonight, it saw her wolf pack dream.