Chapter 61
Once they had the whole thing, they pulled the two chairs in the room by the bed and let Michael rest. Stuart called the nurse and jotted down a prescription for an iv pain killer with a mild sedative, a change of the anti-inflammatory for Diclofenac because Olfen came in rectocaps, and the hemostatic for vitamins C and K. The nurse gave him a questioning look.
He took her arm and guided her into the room to show her Michael’s condition.
- We can’t torture him with too many im injections until he’s ready for them. I know what I’m doing. - Stuart said.
The nurse gulped, obviously impressed by the state the boy was in and agreed.
- Of course, Dr., I’ll get it right away. - She left hurriedly.
- Serena, we need to know what the spy on Antar has found out. Ramthis should have an answer by now, why hasn’t he come to us? This has got too serious! Now we have no idea when it’s going to happen again! Michael can’t keep on taking this; it’s really going to kill him! - Stuart was furious.
- You heard him too! If he hasn’t come yet it’s because he still has nothing! - Serena was quite angry too.
- Michael’s his son! They’re counting on him to free them from Khivar! Are they ready to lose him after all the trouble they took to bring him back to life? I don’t think so! - Stuart was struggling to keep his voice down.
He covered his face with his hands, hating to feel helpless and defeated. There was a discreet knock on the door and Stuart received the tray from the nurse.
- Thank you, I’ll do it myself. -
- You don’t have to, sir, I can…- She offered.
- Please…- Stuart insisted and she nodded and left.
Stuart got the drip “spiked” with the pain killer and the sedative, then he pushed the anti-inflammatory into Michael, so they could see he was soon breathing easier, with just a slight wince every now and then.
- The pain killer by iv injection acts fast but isn’t long lasting as the im, but in a drip, the effect is constant. - Stuart nodded, satisfied with the results. - The sedative is mild, just enough to keep him relaxed, not knocked out. -
- What was the other thing? - Serena was curious.
- Oh, that was the anti-inflammatory. Thankfully, that one comes in suppository form too. Unfortunately I have to keep giving him the antibiotic, the antipyretic and the hemostatic by im injection; I can’t risk the reaction of his alien side to that because of the speed of the effect if I put it in the drip too. It might be too much to deal with for him. His temperature would probably rise to suspicious levels in defense. At least this way, it’s half the shots every 6 to 8 hours…- He changed the subject. - Shouldn’t we be calling them to tell them what’s happened? -
Stuart watched Serena close her eyes briefly in concentration before replying.
- They still have an hour to go. No need to get them panicking, specially since “hurricane DeLuca” might end up in cataclysmic proportions.
Stuart couldn’t help grinning, knowing exactly what she meant. Serena was startled when he jumped to his feet looking worried.
- What?! - Serena called after him as he rushed towards the door.
- There are two loose ends I need to tie up. Be right back and I’ll explain. I’m not leaving the hospital so call me if you need me while I’m gone. - He pointed to his cell phone clipped to his belt before he closed the door.
Serena trusted him to do what was needed, and decided to take a chance. She kept sending Ramthis flashes of Michael in the hospital bed, hoping it would make him realize how urgent it was to have news from him.
Stuart arrived at the examination room where Michael had been taken care of on arrival. He had never thought that the sight of the cleaning lady would easily take ten years off from his life.
- Maggie! - He said, hugging her affectionately.
The middle aged black woman had been there for years, as he had found out when he started to work at this hospital, and was known to everyone as a respected efficient worker. One night, soon after he arrived there, she called for help as her elderly sister, who was like a mother to her, was choking on a chicken bone. She was in an almost liquid diet and it seemed the kind neighbour had sent her a box of KFC, which she loved but had been forbidden to her for the past months. The neighbour had no idea, and Maggie had arrived home after a hard day of work to find her choking as she had tried to swallow quickly not to be caught. Stuart was on a night shift and he had not only taken the call but rushed over in the ambulance. The woman simply loved him for it and was as grateful as anyone could possibly be. When her sister was finally out of danger, she hugged him tight and kept weeping into his ear, mumbling non stop:
“Anything, doctor, anything I can do for you, anytime, whatever, just ask, and if it’s in my hands, I’ll do it, and if it’s not, I’ll find a way!”
Well, now was the time, since he had never needed her before. Maggie was half the battle won, man he was lucky!
- I need a favour. - He gave her a guilty look which always made her laugh.
- You name it, I do it! - She giggled and spluttered in her particular way.
He told her truthfully but in his words what had happened, adding a little fib, that Michael might sue the hospital and he didn’t want that on his record, because although it wasn’t his fault directly, it would more than probably end there too.
- Ok, what shall I do? - Maggie asked, turning serious, on a mission.
- I need the two thermometers they tossed in the trash cans. One must be right here, let’s see…right, get rid of the rest and take it to the bin outside right away. That was easy, now the tricky one. There must be another one in the ambulance that brought him over, most likely in the trash can too, but I don’t know how to find out about it without getting suspicious…- Stuart frowned after using a tissue to retrieve the offending object and shoving it into his pocket.
- No sweat, I’ll say the kid’s missing a watch and he insists he had it on the ambulance, so if they don’t want to get sued, I’ll try to see if it accidentally fell somewhere in there. Piece of cake! - She grinned, all teeth.
- Maggie, I love you! - Stuart planted a wet kiss on her forehead.
- Hold your horses! I haven’t got it yet! You just sit tight and wait. - She headed for the door.
- Try not to touch it, ok? There’s evidence there and I don’t want you involved. Use a tissue, as I did. - He reached out for one to give it to her, but she brought out a wad of toilet paper out of her pocket, showed it to him with a wink, and shoved it back in, imitating Stuart’s movements when he recovered the thermometer.
- I’ll be in room 133. I’ll wait for you there. Be careful, please…-
She made a face and waved to him as she disappeared down the corridor with her broom and her bag.
Stuart returned to the room and told Serena what he had been about and it was now her turn to feel stupid having overlooked the implications of alien sperm on the discarded intruments. He pulled out the thermometer unwrapping it and she placed her hand over it as she made the identification. Her mouth went so wide open that Stuart could easily see her tonsils without the help of a tongue depressor.
- Khivar! - She exclaimed.
- So what? We knew that already! -
- We have his seed here! Do you know what that means? We have his life drive in our hands! We may be able to use it to manipulate him! Better still, I must put it in Amaru’s hands, he’ll know what to do. The Andes Shaman…- She explained to Stuart who was now the one open mouthed.
- I know, I know! Do you think it can help us stop him? That’s what you mean, right? - Stuart whispered, hopefully.
- Now we need Ramthis. - Serena told Stuart what she had been about and was discouraged, not having got anywhere with it. - I’ll send him this information, if that doesn’t get him over, I don’t know what will. Don’t worry, I’ve soundproofed the room since I set foot on it. The second the door closes, it kicks back in. -
- Shit! Now that I think so, the nurse could have heard us talking before she knocked! I’m glad you did it! - Stuart rolled his eyes and then narrowed them in deep thought. - Serena, how could Khivar’s sperm end physically in Michael’s ass? -
- The same way his butt is ripped open by the lashes and he feels Khivar actually fucking him. He also lived Rath’s death along with him, remember Max and Liz said they actually saw the blood, but they thought he was having a vivid nightmare? That’s also how he relived Rath-Michael’s life, his body experiencing exactly what his other self was going through, and on that life Ramthis sent him to as a human Greek warrior. Only Royal blood has the power to do that. - Serena and Stuart jumped up in fright as a weeping Laurie and a worried Wayne burst into the room with the nurse running behind them.
- I’m sorry doctor, I didn’t give them the room number, I don’t know how they…- The nurse was red with shame and anger at the same time.
- I called them and gave it to them. She’s his sister, it’s alright. - Stuart explained quickly with a reasonable lie, watching Maggie trying to catch his attention just outside the room.
- Excuse me, I need some coffee, anyone else? - He asked and Wayne started getting up to join him.
Stuart subtly shook his head no, so Wayne sat back down as if he was just getting comfortable and asked him to get him one too. Stuart headed for the machines around the corner and as she passed by Maggie, she slipped the wrapped thermometer into his hand and kept walking. Stuart got the coffee and headed back to the room.
Laurie had ignored everyone and rushed to Michael, leaning over the bed, as she kissed Michael’s cheek and rubbed his back. As she raised her head, her eyes wandered down his body and she barely made it to the chair right beside her, sitting down hard and covering her mouth with both her hands.
- Oh my god, oh my god! - She repeated, her words muffled but clear enough.
Michael reached out for her and pulled her to him, pushing his fingers into her hair and pressing her cheek on the pillow beside his, so that their mouths were almost touching as she also dug her fingers into his hair. It would have been a mirror image if they had looked alike.
As Stuart returned with the two paper cups, he saw the nurse still just inside the room and noticed the surprised look in the nurse’s face at the degree of sibling intimacy.
- They’re very close, believe it or not, he’s the kid brother. - Stuart quipped, glad to see the look on the nurse’s face softening into a smile.
- I should be checking him but I don’t want to interrupt. I was on my way here when I saw the girl rushing to the room and I tried to stop her. I’ll be back later. - She said, still smiling.
- I’ll do the checking, I’ll call you if anything’s changed, ok? - Stuart assured her as she nodded and turned to leave.
Right then, there was the closest sound to a buffalo stampeed building up towards the room, and they knew what it was.
- Uh oh, the rest of the family is arriving! - Stuart scoffed and the nurse had to move aside not to be run over, deciding to leave and let Stuart handle things.
They arrived at the bed in one body, all talking at the same time so Serena had to shout above them to make them shut up.
- Please! I’ll give you all the answers, he needs to rest! -
They all meekly went to sit on the floor to connect with the seer and do as she asked. That’s when Serena remembered her “son” Wayne had come with her but had waited outside, not wanting to intrude. He had joined Laurie as she ran in but had stayed discreetly by the door. He was thrilled when it was Laurie the one who took his hand and led him towards them. Serena was as specific as she could be and then she gave them a few minutes for the whole thing to sink in.
When Khivar left his brothel, finally satisfied, he knew he had lost the respect of all of his courtesans. He needed to make it up to them but didn’t have the first idea of how to do it. So he went to seek Neeklas. On the way, he kept muttering all the things he could offer his useful cousin to get him out of this one. Nicholas was gloating and waited until the last minute to leave Khivar’s head and return to his waiting body just seconds before the pounding on his door. Normally, Khivar would have just barged in, so this gave Nicholas the upper hand, feeling Khivar knew he had screwed up big time.
- It’s open, what are you knocking for? - He said harshly, testing him.
After Khivar finished telling him what he had done, in a strangely quiet voice, Nicholas told his cousin that this would have dire consequences in the human plane which could easily backfire straight to them. He just loved telling him he had been totally stupid and that he hoped he would be able to set things right. He said he would have to go and talk to the courtesans to see how traumatized they were but the ban for his going to the brothel would make it impossible.
- Alright! The ban is off! Go and see what you can do! - Khivar demanded, regaining some of his composure. - Guard! Escort my cousin to my brothel, and wait for him. -
Nicholas took a deep breath and insisted that Khivar should give them a few days to simmer down and think things over before he returned, but of course, he would carry on an investigation right away. And of course, the prince would need more that a week to heal, after what he had done to him this time.
- You can stay here if you want. I’ll come back as soon as I can. - And with that he left, laughing inside at his stupid cousin’s worried face.
When he arrived at the brothel, the whores’ first reactions were of fear.
Ithmene and Uliana came to face him and tell him he was banned from coming inside and they didn’t want any more problems.
- First of all, that means you’re having some kind of problems, and second, the ban is off, Khivar himself has sent me to try and settle down the matter. - Nicholas said very smugly, stepping into the brothel and telling Someri to wait for him outside.
- If you don’t know what our problem is about, they you’re lying about Khivar sending you and you shouldn’t be here. - Uliana stood up to him, but had to move out of his way as he made sure he was far enough so the guard wouldn’t hear him.
- Wrong my dear, I am just testing you…My stupid cousin just told me he came today and not only beat the shit out of the boy but fucked him until he almost passed out. He’s very ashamed of the way he treated all of you and feels you have lost respect for him. He totally regrets his behaviour and asks your forgiveness, but he isn’t man enough to come himself, so he sent me. That makes any sense to you? I know it does, now I must see the boy, so take me to him. I need to know how bad he’s hurt to see what I can do for him. - He told her.
- So you don’t know where he is? And you want us to believe Khivar sent you? - Ithmene’s voice was mocking.
- He’s in the private chamber, of course. I know the way, but I’ll have to inform Khivar you didn’t want to cooperate with what he has asked me to do. - Nicholas walked towards the said room quite sure of what he was doing.
After just a few steps, Ithmene and Uliana raced to catch up with him and apologized, walking along with him. When Nicholas saw Michael, he knew Khivar had gone too far. The boy was writhing and moaning, burning with fever and as Nicholas reached out to him, he was shocked to see the gaping bleeding wounds slowly started closing together one after the other, proceeding towards the thighs in a downwards progress. Nicholas had to use his powers to stop his hand from trembling and from jerking it away, knowing he wasn’t the one doing the healing. He could see from the corner of his eyes the looks of awe in the women’s eyes and they all slowly started filling the room to witness the display of power for which Nicholas was willingly taking the misplaced responsibility. Nicholas forced himself into a trance and travelled with the boy’s essence to discover the mystery. Doctors! Human doctors! What had Khivar got them into! By the time all the wounds had been taken care of, it was already dark again on Antar and Michael seemed to be resting and recovering. He came out of the trance taking full credit for the astounding task he had performed as far as the courtesans were concerned and who would swear there had been no one else there but Nicholas because that was the truth. He received very gracefully their congratulations grateful for his unexpectedly perfect timing and returned to find his lair empty. A note materialized on the table in Khivar’s writing summoning him to the castle as soon as he was back. Nicholas took his time and made Khivar wait until he cleaned himself up and changed his clothes, then he walked to the King’s chambers, knowing by the way they all looked at him, that the news had already reached the whole citadel: Neeklas had graduated to the status of healer after miraculously taking care of the terrible wounds the King’s protégé had suffered in an infortunate accident during his stay at the castle’s brothel which had failed to provide the safety it was meant to. Nobody knew the identity of the boy, all that gossip had managed to clarify, was that he was important to the king, so they assumed it was the son of some friend of his from a noble family of one of the other planets, hidden there by request of his parents to keep him away from danger. Nicholas had to admit that the Antares did have a vivid imagination, although apart from the elaborate story they had put together, they had no idea who he was. Still, it had leaked out, and that wasn’t good. There had been a slip of the tongue and it had to be from the brothel directly. He would have to find out the culprit before Khivar did and had the offending organ cut off in punishment.
Liz was the first to speak and apologize for all of them for their totally stupid behaviour. Serena smiled and said she understood, surprised by the fact that Maria, of all people, had been the quietest, going straight to Michael and much like Laurie had, clung to him just whispering and kissing him. Serena was impressed, but then she knew Maria wasn’t reliable, and she would flare up usually with the worst timing, so they always had to look out for her. She noticed Wayne was sitting on the floor by the bed with his arm around Laurie’s shoulders as she sat beside him, having a very friendly conversation, by the smile on the girl’s face. Serena nodded and was glad for both of them, remembering their friendship years ago. Stuart had left after they had all settled down and sent passes for all of them with a nurse, who kept coming every hour to check on Michael. Stuart had justified his insistence of the use of an old fashioned rectal thermometer saying the modern gadgets went nuts with him because he had several metal pins in his body from a severe accident some years ago. The scars on the boy’s body gave the theory the credibility it needed. The nurse had brought one hidden in her pocket and careful not to be seen, had been able to prove that Stuart was right. After checking out most of his patients, Stuart returned, having had time to think over and put together his plan to have Michael out of there as soon as he could justify it. With Max’s help it might be perhaps even faster than they had managed in Roswell. Laurie would also play a very important part so Stuart made sure the nurse had just left so they could have some time to themselves without interruptions. He explained that the drugs going into Michael’s bloodstream were keeping his temperature within reasonable limits and helping the healing on his human side, but were weakening his alien one, fighting a losing battle trying to neutralize them. The drip was keeping him fed and balancing his strength to keep him going, so there was a good side and a bad side to it too. He didn’t recommend the control of infection by antibiotics through the drip because it would weaken him too much, and there was no way he would get the wounds infected with Max’s help. Still, he couldn’t stop him from getting them every six hours because it would be too suspicious, and anyway he could neutralize them right away.
- Now the plan to “escape”. - He almost laughed out loud at the shocked looks on their faces. - Not literally of course! C’mon, I mean getting him away from here! I have to calculate the credibility of Michael being able to speak making sense, so I guess tomorrow, Laurie, you will say Michael had a very valuable Rolex watch with him when he was taken into the ambulance and was gone by the time he arrived here, so you’ll threaten to sue the hospital if it is not found. You will have to sound very pissed and determined. I already sent a hint with the cleaning lady which will of course, not be taken too seriously because it could be just ravings caused by his condition. But your claim will make it stick and they will go nuts trying to find it. All hospitals live in constant fear of a lawsuit. The guys in the ambulance will swear on their mothers’ graves that they never saw any watch so the day after tomorrow, when they’re going out of their minds, and have even had the ambulance crew at the police station taking polygraph tests exonerating them, they will be ready to accept anything to get us off their backs. You will say you’re willing to forget about the watch and the lawsuit if they let you take your brother home. After all, I live there and the rest of your family members are mostly medicine students and he will heal faster at home away from the stress that hospitals give him. They will probably ask you to let him stay overnight just to make sure everything is going fine so they can authorize his discharge the very next day. Trust me, it will work, there’s no way to make it faster without getting in trouble. -
- That’s perfect Stuart. Now we just need Ramthis to see if we can work together a way to stop Michael from getting hurt again. - Serena spoke for all of them.
The Calm Before the Storm - Epilogue - 10/24/07
Moderators: Anniepoo98, Itzstacie, truelovepooh, Erina, Forum Moderators
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 62
Khivar received Nicholas with the typical mocking grin he reserved for him lately and that Nicholas just hated.
- So you’re a healer now? A Royal healer? And you expect me to believe you? That was the witch, right? Cause she`s the only one who could’ve done it. -
- And how could a Grumper witch heal a Royal, huh? - Nicholas sneered, gloating at how wrong Khivar was.
- I don’t know, but she sure has a better chance than you have, not only for being a witch, but for being a dead witch. - Khivar said smugly.
- So she’s better than me, is that what you’re saying? - Nicholas was furious.
- Isn’t she? She got you the Royal boy, when you had to get to him through simple humans! Did you think I hadn’t figured that one out? - Khivar was clearly laughing at him.
“Damn our fathers! Why did they have to do this to us? To me? Of course Khivar had found out, just like I find out about Khivar’s pranks! Through that stupid link our ‘dear’ fathers set us up with! What else? Shit! So the witch is better than me? Fine! Then she’s better than Khivar too. You just gave me the way to fool you, cousin, just wait and see!”
- Ok, I was just having some fun and at the same time finding a way to do some spying for you from out here. I just wanted to make sure I had something real good to report to you before taking up some of your precious time, but you blew it by interfering! Your loss! -
Nicholas was truly planning to find out more about the Roswell hybrids giving it a try through the geeky girl but he was too much into the fun, leaving it for the last minute which never came. So it didn’t register in Khivar’s built-in alarm system as a lie, and he had to believe Nicholas’ ‘good intentions’ as the true purpose of the whole thing.
- Well, you really have him here now, so I want you to find out what you can, all we need to know to defeat him! - Khivar made everything he said to him sound like an order, and Nicholas had just about had enough.
- You’re the one up his ass, why haven’t you done it? - Nicholas wondered.
- Because the bloody boy blocks me out so I need you to do it! - Khivar shouted.
- Why should I be able to do what you can’t? - Nicholas grinned smugly.
- Dammit Neeklas! You’re the one on the mind area, you know that! - Khivar exploded.
“Sure I am, and that proves that I can get inside your worthless mind without your even knowing I’m there. Thank you for confirming it, too bad it’s the only thing I can do without your knowing it as long as I’m just along for the right without the possibility of even blinking so you won’t detect me. You’re so stupid that you take our joint orgasms as a result of fucking a Royal blooded! So cool!” Nicholas thought using that tiny part of his mind inaccessible to Khivar.
- Alright, I have to go back later to see how he’s doing anyway. - He answered.
- I need to rest now, it’s damn tyring, you know? To keep my concentration in the witch’s powers so the kid won’t get into my mind with his Royal blood? Give me a couple of hours and I’ll be up to it again and see what I can do. -
- Granted, but stay out of trouble, I’m sick of your screwing up! - Khivar went into his chambers and slammed the door in Nicholas’ face.
“Granted!” Nicholas mimicked to himself as he left fuming. “So he’s doing me a favour making me do a favour for him? The bastard!” He thought as he saw Someri following him.
- I don’t need you yet! -
He felt something off with the man, which he couldn’t quite place. He had to admit he was really very efficient and discreet. You never saw him even trying to overhear what didn’t concern him, quite the contrary, he tried to stay completely out of the way, making it clear it was none of his business. The man was as respectful to him as he was with Khivar, and Nicholas appreciated that. But still… no, he was just getting paranoid. He needed to speak to the crone.
- I’m sorry my lord, I have been ordered to escort you anywhere you go for your safety. - Someri said, paying him the same courtesy he did his cousin.
He wasn’t risking it with Neeklas, he had been told how tricky he was. He saw him sigh and nod, not very happy with the arrangements, but he had to accept them. He had noticed the sly looks Neeklas gave him, so he was extra careful.
Once home, Nicholas locked himself up to carry on the summoning of the crone and his change of plans. He automatically soundproofed the room and started the ritual. He was shocked to see the old woman’s image so unstable.
- What is wrong with you? - He asked, alarmed.
- You are exceeding my time here, mylord. I’m afraid I can’t stay much longer. You know I’m the one keeping the Royal prince here, so when I go, that part of him will go too. -
- You mean, right away? - Nicholas frowned.
- How long did it take you to perform the ritual that brought me to you until you had the Royal boy standing before your eyes? - The old woman asked.
- I’m not sure…a few minutes? - Nicholas had no sense of the time it had really taken, it had actually seemed a short one to him.
- It was over two hours, halfway to three, and that’s what it will take me to return to the place you brought me from, so that’s what the part of the prince that I have brought to Antar has before he goes back into his true body. - The witch nodded.
- Two and a half hours? Was it that long? No, I’m glad it’s not just minutes, but I had no idea…- Nicholas shook his head.
- It’s a totally different time space. Almost like Earth time. You’ll have enough time to make your peace with him. - She said.
- No way, Khivar will freak out! - Nicholas exclaimed.
- I didn’t mean him, but I can make him forget the boy was ever here as I could with all the women at the brothel. The people in the citadel will just believe the boy was sent back home then the rumours about him stop. - The crone had this knowing look.
- Do it with the women but let Khivar remember, and rub it in that it was a once in a lifetime chance and he threw it away because of his stupidity! - Nicholas giggled.
- I will make that clear or you could get in trouble. The whores have no blame, so they will just say the truth: that he vanished in front of their eyes. I can grant you one last wish, since you were the one who summoned me, but you must be careful, with your cousin…- She hinted and Nicholas took i as long as it’s with you t for what it was.
- I know, so I guess this will make sense to you. I can accept your advice, though. I want to be able to contact the prince but that everything that has to do with me and him be kept away from Khivar without his knowledge that it’s even in or on my mind. - Nicholas arched his eyebrows waiting for her opinion on the matter.
He panicked for an instant when the witch started fading in front of his eyes before she could accept his proposal, but she managed to come through again. She looked really dead now, haggard and almost transparent, even her voice was shaky and unstable.
- Yes, it’s a good choice, the best you could possibly make but remember he is Royal. I may establish the contact but it will have to be him who decides if he wants to accept your request. - She gave him a cunning grin, knowing exactly what he was up to.
- It’s his privilege, definitely. Do you think he will forgive me? - Nicholas asked hurriedly, with every second counting.
- Not your cousin. - She said vaguely, on purpose, and Nicholas took the bait.
- My cousin’s got nothing to forgive me, quite the contrary. - He tried not to sound as angry as he was at the injustice of what he thought she had meant.
- How could you get that so wrong? You musn’t let you cousin make you lose focus. You know who I’m talking about, the one you want to keep in touch and make your peace with, of course. He will forgive you, but not your cousin. There’s no way he can forgive your cousin. Hurry up…time is already flying. Here, so you will not falter…ever, as long as it’s with you! - The last words came as a fading whisper as she yanked a snaky lock of her brittle hair and tossed it to him just before she disappeared.
Nicholas caught it in his hand and it turned to dust. Using his powers, he trapped it into an airtight small bag with cords long enough to tie around his waist, where no one would see it. He raised his tunic and as the leather-like material touched his rounded belly, he could feel its power pressing against his flesh. Yes, she might be gone, but he still had her, at least what counted. He was ready. He shook himself free of the trance and opened the door. He headed for the brothel in the castle and Someri quietly followed him.
Everything was so different this time, Nicholas stepped right in as the courtesans moved out of his way and he could feel their eyes following him with a mixture of reverence and awe. He went into the room and just for courtesy’s sake, to stay in the best terms possible with them, though he didn’t need to, he told the women he wanted to see his “patient” alone. There was no protest whatsover as he closed the door slowly, giving them time to make a move if they didn’t agree.
Nicholas stood beside Michael watching his troubled sleep, as he squirmed and moaned. He watched the fresh healing wounds crisscrossing his branded butt and knew he had to be in pain, the human doctors may have done a fairly good job, and Max probably lent a hand on it, or would when he had the chance, but neither had Royal blood, so the boy had to suffer, which seemed to be his destiny. He placed his hand on the healing area and felt Michael jerk.
- Shhh, it’s alright, I’m not here to hurt you…- He whispered soothingly.
- I’m not afraid of you…- Michael said huskily.
- I know. You’re the only one that doesn’t tremble when you face me. That’s why “I love my enemy”. - Nicholas chuckled. - I just want to talk to you. -
- About what? What can we possibly talk about? - Michael smirked.
- Us. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking, Michael, we’re very similar in one aspect. You may be Royal, but you’re sworn to your silly king and have to be the one to do the hardest part, the fighting, and you’re the one getting hurt for him. I don’t think he appreciates you except for hiding safely behind you and having you there to fuck whenever he feels like it…- Nicholas said bitterly.
- Max is not like Zan, he was originally, but he has changed…- Michael told him.
- Whatever. Khivar is very much like Zan was. My father and his may have been brothers, but my mother was of a much nobler family than his was. Still, he treats me like trash and I have to do his dirty work, because of this stupid ritual our fathers did to make sure we would be there for each other. I’ve found a way to shortcut the part that concerns you, I respect you, because of all I’ve done to you under his orders and to please him. It had nothing to do with you or me, I…have to admit I enjoyed being with you, you are so challenging, so unlike those other cringing idiots I’ve had to deal with. He’s never given me any credit, much like Zan huh? And what about Max? He may have changed lately but he was a regular prick with you for many years, you can’t deny that. I know how you felt then, because that’s how I still feel with Khivar. I’m sick of it, I don’t want to go on, but I must pretend I do, to be able to keep you safe from him. -
- Shit, what do these idiots have me on? Hey, I may be drugged but I’m still quite aware…- Michael shook his head.
- I’m serious. - Nicholas said, very frustrated at not being believed.
- Sure man, anything you say. - Michael humoured Nicholas like he thought he was doing with him. - Hell of a drug, dude, fucking cool! -
Nicholas pushed his finger against Michael’s lowest vertebra, sending a vibe up his spine that made him jerk and bite down a wince. The boost of pleasure that followed, made him gasp and he instinctively spread his legs wider. Nicholas took the invitation and searched lower, finding his target with ecstatic effects for both of them when Michael couldn’t help bucking in response when Nicholas prodded. The finger went deep and Michael moaned, expecting the pain from Nicholas but totally surprised at the pleasure. Nicholas wiggled his index all around making Michael writhe and hiss, clenching on it like a vice. Nicholas cunningly turned his hand with a flick of his wrist and pressed his fingertip on Michael’s prostate simultaneously worrying the chains with his thumb. Nicholas used his powers to keep his thumb and index buzzing on the piercings and Michael’s g-spot while he shaped his other three fingers into a long thick spinning spiral with a backwards curve that enabled it to reach depths only few had been able to manage. Michael went wild, twisting and whimpering, ready to come but Nicholas kept delaying it over and over, feeling the silent plea, until he had to give up. Michael would not beg to him even if it killed him, Nicholas had to accept it, so he let him have it.
What Michael felt was indescribable, he couldn’t believe it was Nicholas the one making him feel what he was. The pain didn’t disappoint him but the pleasure made everything worth it. Nicholas connected his hand directly to his own cock and came just as hard as Michael had, intelligently keeping his evidence away from the boy’s body. Nicholas tried to pull out but Michael gripped him harder and sobbed.
- I’ll go gently, ok? Just relax and let me do it. - Nicholas whispered.
- Wait…- Michael said, still tight.
Nicholas complied, realizing there wasn’t much he could do short of tearing him inside out, which wasn’t his intention this time. Very slowly, Michael started breathing easier, then, just as slowly, he began to relax, making it possible for Nicholas to remove his fingers from him. As his last finger slid out, he rubbed the sore tiny opening, feeling the invountary contractions, and knowing exactly why Khivar had totally lost it over the boy. Good! Nicholas was picturing the tantrum Khivar would throw when Michael was gone. Now he would know what it was like to want something and not to be able to have it because he didn’t deserve it. Served him right!
- Will you listen to me now? - Nicholas insisted, cupping Michael’s chin and sliding his thumb over his lips.
- I’m listening. - Michael whispered against the alien flesh, quite intrigued.
Rather than talking, Nicholas placed one hand on Michael’s cheek and held his hand with the other one. He sent him vivid flashes of how frustrating his life had been, always under Khivar’s thumb, mocked because of his short height, hating how Khivar seemed to live to make fun of him and his life just impossible, uncomfortable, and unbearable. Nicholas craved to live his own life in a respectable way, how he liked to, and under his own terms. He needed to get rid of Khivar to be able to be himself but it had to be subtly, and gradually, for his own safety. He explained his deal with the witch, and how it had not lived up to his expectations, so he had to admit he had been glad when she told him she had to leave and release Michael back to his Earth body. That’s what would happen in…he concentrated and said they probably had just a few more minutes at the most.
- I’m here to let you go. Khivar will not touch you again, and of course, neither will I. The sadistic scene has begun to tire me, I’m lately not getting the kick I used to, and that’s really the main reason that has got me thinking things out. I need to do something decent to make my life worth it, but as you well know, my credibility is not my best feature, so I know it’s going to be real hard, but I’ll do my best to prove you can trust me. The witch granted me a last wish: to be able to contact you but only when and if you accept it. - Nicholas frowned when he saw Michael bite on his lower lip almost hiding a wince.
- I’m feeling dizzy…- Michael complained.
- So it’s goodbye, then. - Nicholas leant over and Michael saw him tilt his head to kiss him on the mouth.
He knew he should be repelled, he wanted to feel grossed out, but he didn’t. It was a soft caress, featherlike, with an almost loving quality to it, so disturbing, so unlike the Nicholas he had always known and hated. His fading voice gave him one last message: this is our secret until you decide those close to you are able to understand it. Michael could feel such sincerity and determination that he was left shuddering as his body seemed to be covered in flames. He felt an irresistible compulsion to open his eyes, unsure of what he would see when he did so. But he had to…and sighed with relief when he found many pairs of worried eyes on his.
- MICHAEL!!! - Maria screamed and pounced on him.
Serena pulled the girl away as gently as she could to find out the reason for their concern directly from the source.
- What was that Michael? You seemed to be having a nightmare. - Serena made it clear she had no idea, and that meant no one else did either.
- Huh? - Went Michael, slyly feeling the ground he was treading, as he also hadn’t a clue of exactly how they had seen it.
- Michael, you spent close to three minutes moving and sounding as if you were being tortured. We presumed you were dreaming about what your arrival here must have been at the hands of those doctors. - Serena knew she was hinting him out of a situation he didn’t feel yet free to reveal.
- Yeah, tough…hope this is the last I see of it. I didn’t mean to worry you…- He sighed, relieved that he had blocked himself out in time and so efficiently.
He needed desperately to have some time to himself to think over this strange interaction with Nicholas. There was no one he could discuss it with, no one at all. He was on his own in this one. He decided the best was to appear asleep, whether he fooled them or not. If he didn’t, he was sure they would respect his need to rest and put it all behind him, so he did it and apparently, it worked.
It was almost 7:00 pm when they realized they were starving, so Liz said she would stay with Maria and they could just bring them a sandwich and a soda. Anyway, Maria was sitting by the bed leaning over Michael with her cheek on his shoulder. Her soft snoring told them she was asleep and at the same time seemed to be soothing Michael with the familiar sound. Liz was sitting on the other side with Michael facing her way. She brushed her hand over his cheek and he moaned softly, welcoming his vibes travelling up her arm. She moved her hand to his hair and played with it as she whispered:
- Easy there, babyboy, just rest and let us do the work. You’ll be back home before you know it, don’t worry, just fight it, as you always do, I know how tough you are…-
- Excuse me…- The nurse said timidly from the door. - I need to check him up. -
- Sure, come in. - Liz smiled.
- I have to…- She showed Liz the thermometer along with a syringe on her tray.
- It’s ok, we’re both medical students. Actually because of him! - She gestured towards Michael with her head and then at the tray. - We’ve been doing that to him for quite some time now. We could do it, but it’s your job. I can give you a hand if you want. -
Liz and the nurse shared smiles and the nurse nodded.
- Sure, thanks, what happened to him? - She asked.
- I wasn’t there, all I know is that they were bringing back the bunched up old barbed wire after fixing a fence and Michael was riding beside the pick-up van. The driver said he hit a hole and the horse shied, trying to move away, losing his balance and almost went over so Michael ended right where he shouldn’t. It took Stuart ages to get all the barbs out of him and patch him up. He was badly ripped by the time the whole thing was removed. He spent all week end in bed but he insisted in going to school today. - Liz was building up the scenario as she went along, playing it in her mind to make it believable.
As the nurse checked the iv, Liz lubed the thermometer and handed it to her. She swabbed the chosen site for the injection and watched the nurse expertly shoot the drug into the muscle.
- Antibiotic…cefoxitin? - Liz guessed as Michael moaned.
- How do you…you’re guessing, right? - The nurse was surprised.
- Stuart commented it was well tolerated, with just perhaps a reaction on the injection site. It’s what he would have chosen. - Liz, like Stuart, knew Max would easily be able to deal with that kind of reaction if it happened.
- You’re going to be a good doctor…-
Liz’s attention was drawn to Michael as he kept repeating: “Father, father…” and it was then she noticed the nurse had suddenly kept quiet and the way the room was lighting up. Liz turned to see the terrified face of the nurse staring at something behind her and the energy she felt closing in towards Michael left her no doubts that finally Ramthis had made his appearance. Liz sent an urgent call to Serena as she saw the nurse was completely paralyzed.
Khivar received Nicholas with the typical mocking grin he reserved for him lately and that Nicholas just hated.
- So you’re a healer now? A Royal healer? And you expect me to believe you? That was the witch, right? Cause she`s the only one who could’ve done it. -
- And how could a Grumper witch heal a Royal, huh? - Nicholas sneered, gloating at how wrong Khivar was.
- I don’t know, but she sure has a better chance than you have, not only for being a witch, but for being a dead witch. - Khivar said smugly.
- So she’s better than me, is that what you’re saying? - Nicholas was furious.
- Isn’t she? She got you the Royal boy, when you had to get to him through simple humans! Did you think I hadn’t figured that one out? - Khivar was clearly laughing at him.
“Damn our fathers! Why did they have to do this to us? To me? Of course Khivar had found out, just like I find out about Khivar’s pranks! Through that stupid link our ‘dear’ fathers set us up with! What else? Shit! So the witch is better than me? Fine! Then she’s better than Khivar too. You just gave me the way to fool you, cousin, just wait and see!”
- Ok, I was just having some fun and at the same time finding a way to do some spying for you from out here. I just wanted to make sure I had something real good to report to you before taking up some of your precious time, but you blew it by interfering! Your loss! -
Nicholas was truly planning to find out more about the Roswell hybrids giving it a try through the geeky girl but he was too much into the fun, leaving it for the last minute which never came. So it didn’t register in Khivar’s built-in alarm system as a lie, and he had to believe Nicholas’ ‘good intentions’ as the true purpose of the whole thing.
- Well, you really have him here now, so I want you to find out what you can, all we need to know to defeat him! - Khivar made everything he said to him sound like an order, and Nicholas had just about had enough.
- You’re the one up his ass, why haven’t you done it? - Nicholas wondered.
- Because the bloody boy blocks me out so I need you to do it! - Khivar shouted.
- Why should I be able to do what you can’t? - Nicholas grinned smugly.
- Dammit Neeklas! You’re the one on the mind area, you know that! - Khivar exploded.
“Sure I am, and that proves that I can get inside your worthless mind without your even knowing I’m there. Thank you for confirming it, too bad it’s the only thing I can do without your knowing it as long as I’m just along for the right without the possibility of even blinking so you won’t detect me. You’re so stupid that you take our joint orgasms as a result of fucking a Royal blooded! So cool!” Nicholas thought using that tiny part of his mind inaccessible to Khivar.
- Alright, I have to go back later to see how he’s doing anyway. - He answered.
- I need to rest now, it’s damn tyring, you know? To keep my concentration in the witch’s powers so the kid won’t get into my mind with his Royal blood? Give me a couple of hours and I’ll be up to it again and see what I can do. -
- Granted, but stay out of trouble, I’m sick of your screwing up! - Khivar went into his chambers and slammed the door in Nicholas’ face.
“Granted!” Nicholas mimicked to himself as he left fuming. “So he’s doing me a favour making me do a favour for him? The bastard!” He thought as he saw Someri following him.
- I don’t need you yet! -
He felt something off with the man, which he couldn’t quite place. He had to admit he was really very efficient and discreet. You never saw him even trying to overhear what didn’t concern him, quite the contrary, he tried to stay completely out of the way, making it clear it was none of his business. The man was as respectful to him as he was with Khivar, and Nicholas appreciated that. But still… no, he was just getting paranoid. He needed to speak to the crone.
- I’m sorry my lord, I have been ordered to escort you anywhere you go for your safety. - Someri said, paying him the same courtesy he did his cousin.
He wasn’t risking it with Neeklas, he had been told how tricky he was. He saw him sigh and nod, not very happy with the arrangements, but he had to accept them. He had noticed the sly looks Neeklas gave him, so he was extra careful.
Once home, Nicholas locked himself up to carry on the summoning of the crone and his change of plans. He automatically soundproofed the room and started the ritual. He was shocked to see the old woman’s image so unstable.
- What is wrong with you? - He asked, alarmed.
- You are exceeding my time here, mylord. I’m afraid I can’t stay much longer. You know I’m the one keeping the Royal prince here, so when I go, that part of him will go too. -
- You mean, right away? - Nicholas frowned.
- How long did it take you to perform the ritual that brought me to you until you had the Royal boy standing before your eyes? - The old woman asked.
- I’m not sure…a few minutes? - Nicholas had no sense of the time it had really taken, it had actually seemed a short one to him.
- It was over two hours, halfway to three, and that’s what it will take me to return to the place you brought me from, so that’s what the part of the prince that I have brought to Antar has before he goes back into his true body. - The witch nodded.
- Two and a half hours? Was it that long? No, I’m glad it’s not just minutes, but I had no idea…- Nicholas shook his head.
- It’s a totally different time space. Almost like Earth time. You’ll have enough time to make your peace with him. - She said.
- No way, Khivar will freak out! - Nicholas exclaimed.
- I didn’t mean him, but I can make him forget the boy was ever here as I could with all the women at the brothel. The people in the citadel will just believe the boy was sent back home then the rumours about him stop. - The crone had this knowing look.
- Do it with the women but let Khivar remember, and rub it in that it was a once in a lifetime chance and he threw it away because of his stupidity! - Nicholas giggled.
- I will make that clear or you could get in trouble. The whores have no blame, so they will just say the truth: that he vanished in front of their eyes. I can grant you one last wish, since you were the one who summoned me, but you must be careful, with your cousin…- She hinted and Nicholas took i as long as it’s with you t for what it was.
- I know, so I guess this will make sense to you. I can accept your advice, though. I want to be able to contact the prince but that everything that has to do with me and him be kept away from Khivar without his knowledge that it’s even in or on my mind. - Nicholas arched his eyebrows waiting for her opinion on the matter.
He panicked for an instant when the witch started fading in front of his eyes before she could accept his proposal, but she managed to come through again. She looked really dead now, haggard and almost transparent, even her voice was shaky and unstable.
- Yes, it’s a good choice, the best you could possibly make but remember he is Royal. I may establish the contact but it will have to be him who decides if he wants to accept your request. - She gave him a cunning grin, knowing exactly what he was up to.
- It’s his privilege, definitely. Do you think he will forgive me? - Nicholas asked hurriedly, with every second counting.
- Not your cousin. - She said vaguely, on purpose, and Nicholas took the bait.
- My cousin’s got nothing to forgive me, quite the contrary. - He tried not to sound as angry as he was at the injustice of what he thought she had meant.
- How could you get that so wrong? You musn’t let you cousin make you lose focus. You know who I’m talking about, the one you want to keep in touch and make your peace with, of course. He will forgive you, but not your cousin. There’s no way he can forgive your cousin. Hurry up…time is already flying. Here, so you will not falter…ever, as long as it’s with you! - The last words came as a fading whisper as she yanked a snaky lock of her brittle hair and tossed it to him just before she disappeared.
Nicholas caught it in his hand and it turned to dust. Using his powers, he trapped it into an airtight small bag with cords long enough to tie around his waist, where no one would see it. He raised his tunic and as the leather-like material touched his rounded belly, he could feel its power pressing against his flesh. Yes, she might be gone, but he still had her, at least what counted. He was ready. He shook himself free of the trance and opened the door. He headed for the brothel in the castle and Someri quietly followed him.
Everything was so different this time, Nicholas stepped right in as the courtesans moved out of his way and he could feel their eyes following him with a mixture of reverence and awe. He went into the room and just for courtesy’s sake, to stay in the best terms possible with them, though he didn’t need to, he told the women he wanted to see his “patient” alone. There was no protest whatsover as he closed the door slowly, giving them time to make a move if they didn’t agree.
Nicholas stood beside Michael watching his troubled sleep, as he squirmed and moaned. He watched the fresh healing wounds crisscrossing his branded butt and knew he had to be in pain, the human doctors may have done a fairly good job, and Max probably lent a hand on it, or would when he had the chance, but neither had Royal blood, so the boy had to suffer, which seemed to be his destiny. He placed his hand on the healing area and felt Michael jerk.
- Shhh, it’s alright, I’m not here to hurt you…- He whispered soothingly.
- I’m not afraid of you…- Michael said huskily.
- I know. You’re the only one that doesn’t tremble when you face me. That’s why “I love my enemy”. - Nicholas chuckled. - I just want to talk to you. -
- About what? What can we possibly talk about? - Michael smirked.
- Us. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking, Michael, we’re very similar in one aspect. You may be Royal, but you’re sworn to your silly king and have to be the one to do the hardest part, the fighting, and you’re the one getting hurt for him. I don’t think he appreciates you except for hiding safely behind you and having you there to fuck whenever he feels like it…- Nicholas said bitterly.
- Max is not like Zan, he was originally, but he has changed…- Michael told him.
- Whatever. Khivar is very much like Zan was. My father and his may have been brothers, but my mother was of a much nobler family than his was. Still, he treats me like trash and I have to do his dirty work, because of this stupid ritual our fathers did to make sure we would be there for each other. I’ve found a way to shortcut the part that concerns you, I respect you, because of all I’ve done to you under his orders and to please him. It had nothing to do with you or me, I…have to admit I enjoyed being with you, you are so challenging, so unlike those other cringing idiots I’ve had to deal with. He’s never given me any credit, much like Zan huh? And what about Max? He may have changed lately but he was a regular prick with you for many years, you can’t deny that. I know how you felt then, because that’s how I still feel with Khivar. I’m sick of it, I don’t want to go on, but I must pretend I do, to be able to keep you safe from him. -
- Shit, what do these idiots have me on? Hey, I may be drugged but I’m still quite aware…- Michael shook his head.
- I’m serious. - Nicholas said, very frustrated at not being believed.
- Sure man, anything you say. - Michael humoured Nicholas like he thought he was doing with him. - Hell of a drug, dude, fucking cool! -
Nicholas pushed his finger against Michael’s lowest vertebra, sending a vibe up his spine that made him jerk and bite down a wince. The boost of pleasure that followed, made him gasp and he instinctively spread his legs wider. Nicholas took the invitation and searched lower, finding his target with ecstatic effects for both of them when Michael couldn’t help bucking in response when Nicholas prodded. The finger went deep and Michael moaned, expecting the pain from Nicholas but totally surprised at the pleasure. Nicholas wiggled his index all around making Michael writhe and hiss, clenching on it like a vice. Nicholas cunningly turned his hand with a flick of his wrist and pressed his fingertip on Michael’s prostate simultaneously worrying the chains with his thumb. Nicholas used his powers to keep his thumb and index buzzing on the piercings and Michael’s g-spot while he shaped his other three fingers into a long thick spinning spiral with a backwards curve that enabled it to reach depths only few had been able to manage. Michael went wild, twisting and whimpering, ready to come but Nicholas kept delaying it over and over, feeling the silent plea, until he had to give up. Michael would not beg to him even if it killed him, Nicholas had to accept it, so he let him have it.
What Michael felt was indescribable, he couldn’t believe it was Nicholas the one making him feel what he was. The pain didn’t disappoint him but the pleasure made everything worth it. Nicholas connected his hand directly to his own cock and came just as hard as Michael had, intelligently keeping his evidence away from the boy’s body. Nicholas tried to pull out but Michael gripped him harder and sobbed.
- I’ll go gently, ok? Just relax and let me do it. - Nicholas whispered.
- Wait…- Michael said, still tight.
Nicholas complied, realizing there wasn’t much he could do short of tearing him inside out, which wasn’t his intention this time. Very slowly, Michael started breathing easier, then, just as slowly, he began to relax, making it possible for Nicholas to remove his fingers from him. As his last finger slid out, he rubbed the sore tiny opening, feeling the invountary contractions, and knowing exactly why Khivar had totally lost it over the boy. Good! Nicholas was picturing the tantrum Khivar would throw when Michael was gone. Now he would know what it was like to want something and not to be able to have it because he didn’t deserve it. Served him right!
- Will you listen to me now? - Nicholas insisted, cupping Michael’s chin and sliding his thumb over his lips.
- I’m listening. - Michael whispered against the alien flesh, quite intrigued.
Rather than talking, Nicholas placed one hand on Michael’s cheek and held his hand with the other one. He sent him vivid flashes of how frustrating his life had been, always under Khivar’s thumb, mocked because of his short height, hating how Khivar seemed to live to make fun of him and his life just impossible, uncomfortable, and unbearable. Nicholas craved to live his own life in a respectable way, how he liked to, and under his own terms. He needed to get rid of Khivar to be able to be himself but it had to be subtly, and gradually, for his own safety. He explained his deal with the witch, and how it had not lived up to his expectations, so he had to admit he had been glad when she told him she had to leave and release Michael back to his Earth body. That’s what would happen in…he concentrated and said they probably had just a few more minutes at the most.
- I’m here to let you go. Khivar will not touch you again, and of course, neither will I. The sadistic scene has begun to tire me, I’m lately not getting the kick I used to, and that’s really the main reason that has got me thinking things out. I need to do something decent to make my life worth it, but as you well know, my credibility is not my best feature, so I know it’s going to be real hard, but I’ll do my best to prove you can trust me. The witch granted me a last wish: to be able to contact you but only when and if you accept it. - Nicholas frowned when he saw Michael bite on his lower lip almost hiding a wince.
- I’m feeling dizzy…- Michael complained.
- So it’s goodbye, then. - Nicholas leant over and Michael saw him tilt his head to kiss him on the mouth.
He knew he should be repelled, he wanted to feel grossed out, but he didn’t. It was a soft caress, featherlike, with an almost loving quality to it, so disturbing, so unlike the Nicholas he had always known and hated. His fading voice gave him one last message: this is our secret until you decide those close to you are able to understand it. Michael could feel such sincerity and determination that he was left shuddering as his body seemed to be covered in flames. He felt an irresistible compulsion to open his eyes, unsure of what he would see when he did so. But he had to…and sighed with relief when he found many pairs of worried eyes on his.
- MICHAEL!!! - Maria screamed and pounced on him.
Serena pulled the girl away as gently as she could to find out the reason for their concern directly from the source.
- What was that Michael? You seemed to be having a nightmare. - Serena made it clear she had no idea, and that meant no one else did either.
- Huh? - Went Michael, slyly feeling the ground he was treading, as he also hadn’t a clue of exactly how they had seen it.
- Michael, you spent close to three minutes moving and sounding as if you were being tortured. We presumed you were dreaming about what your arrival here must have been at the hands of those doctors. - Serena knew she was hinting him out of a situation he didn’t feel yet free to reveal.
- Yeah, tough…hope this is the last I see of it. I didn’t mean to worry you…- He sighed, relieved that he had blocked himself out in time and so efficiently.
He needed desperately to have some time to himself to think over this strange interaction with Nicholas. There was no one he could discuss it with, no one at all. He was on his own in this one. He decided the best was to appear asleep, whether he fooled them or not. If he didn’t, he was sure they would respect his need to rest and put it all behind him, so he did it and apparently, it worked.
It was almost 7:00 pm when they realized they were starving, so Liz said she would stay with Maria and they could just bring them a sandwich and a soda. Anyway, Maria was sitting by the bed leaning over Michael with her cheek on his shoulder. Her soft snoring told them she was asleep and at the same time seemed to be soothing Michael with the familiar sound. Liz was sitting on the other side with Michael facing her way. She brushed her hand over his cheek and he moaned softly, welcoming his vibes travelling up her arm. She moved her hand to his hair and played with it as she whispered:
- Easy there, babyboy, just rest and let us do the work. You’ll be back home before you know it, don’t worry, just fight it, as you always do, I know how tough you are…-
- Excuse me…- The nurse said timidly from the door. - I need to check him up. -
- Sure, come in. - Liz smiled.
- I have to…- She showed Liz the thermometer along with a syringe on her tray.
- It’s ok, we’re both medical students. Actually because of him! - She gestured towards Michael with her head and then at the tray. - We’ve been doing that to him for quite some time now. We could do it, but it’s your job. I can give you a hand if you want. -
Liz and the nurse shared smiles and the nurse nodded.
- Sure, thanks, what happened to him? - She asked.
- I wasn’t there, all I know is that they were bringing back the bunched up old barbed wire after fixing a fence and Michael was riding beside the pick-up van. The driver said he hit a hole and the horse shied, trying to move away, losing his balance and almost went over so Michael ended right where he shouldn’t. It took Stuart ages to get all the barbs out of him and patch him up. He was badly ripped by the time the whole thing was removed. He spent all week end in bed but he insisted in going to school today. - Liz was building up the scenario as she went along, playing it in her mind to make it believable.
As the nurse checked the iv, Liz lubed the thermometer and handed it to her. She swabbed the chosen site for the injection and watched the nurse expertly shoot the drug into the muscle.
- Antibiotic…cefoxitin? - Liz guessed as Michael moaned.
- How do you…you’re guessing, right? - The nurse was surprised.
- Stuart commented it was well tolerated, with just perhaps a reaction on the injection site. It’s what he would have chosen. - Liz, like Stuart, knew Max would easily be able to deal with that kind of reaction if it happened.
- You’re going to be a good doctor…-
Liz’s attention was drawn to Michael as he kept repeating: “Father, father…” and it was then she noticed the nurse had suddenly kept quiet and the way the room was lighting up. Liz turned to see the terrified face of the nurse staring at something behind her and the energy she felt closing in towards Michael left her no doubts that finally Ramthis had made his appearance. Liz sent an urgent call to Serena as she saw the nurse was completely paralyzed.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
I've reposted chapter 62 because I posted by mistake the uncorrected draft. My sincere apologies, this is now the right one.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 63
“She will not remember anything. What was she doing to my son?” The ex-warlord asked using a mental communication in case his voice and language would attract the wrong attention.
“She was medicating him to help fight the infection from the wounds. She wasn’t hurting him.” Liz assured him.
“That’s not what I saw.” Ramthis doubted her.
“I meant she wasn’t causing him any harm, though I admit the application was painful.” Liz accepted.
The door opened and the whole gang squeezed into the room. Wayne was staring at Ramthis in absolute fear, so Serena introduced him.
“Ava, get the human female out of the room and send her on her way. I don’t think you will, but see if you need your powers to make her forget she saw me.” Ramthis ordered.
Ava nodded and took the nurse by the shoulders, leading her stiffly to the door. She placed her tray with the used stuff in her hands and the second she stepped outside, her movements returned to normal so she just left along the corridor to the left. The door was finally closed and they all turned to the alien presence. Ramthis knelt on the floor by the bed and took Michael’s hand in one of his while he caressed his son’s face and hair with the other. The interaction was so tender, unlike what was usually expected of the harsh being. Suddenly, to everyone’s surprise, Max knelt on the other side taking Michael’s other hand and Ramthis raised his head to face his nephew.
“You’ve dared failed him again, Zan?” His booming voice made Max tremble.
“No, no! Uncle, you don’t understand! It wasn’t like that! I was…- But he was interrupted.
“Father, he’s right, you don’t understand. You would have to be here to do so. We must live human lives not to be discovered. I am following the typical human cycle of education with my sister…- Michael began.
“But she’s a girl and she’s older, she should already have…- Ramthis was in turn interrupted by his son.
“She was unfairly kept away from it by her relatives who wanted what was her due after her parents and then her grandfather died. Remember him? Charles Dupree? He was my DNA donor’s twin? Here boys and girls study together so we’re at the same school. Max, well, Zan for you, is studying the human healing techniques to do something possitive with his life here as we wait, and so are the others to be together in this adventure and help those they can. Trust me father, Zan is now always here for me, but when this happened, I blocked them out not to get any of them in trouble because of me. They didn’t know what was happening and they were here right away when they finally did. Don’t get it wrong, it’s not like you to do so.” Michael squeezed his father’s hand and Max’s at the same time, reaching a reasonable understanding.
“I’m sorry, child, and Zan, my apologies too. All this has me going out of my mind. Let me tell you what’s happening here.” Ramthis’ expression changed completely into one of kindness rarely seen in him but not totally unheard off. “Someri heard Khivar and Neeklas having heated arguments, afraid they would come to blows and he would have to separate them, but they didn’t probably because they knew he was out there standing guard. Then there was this talk about Khivar keeping a boy at his private brothel, rumours said it was the son of one of his powerful allies from one of the other planets who was sent to him to be out of danger from their enemies, to us it had Rath-Michael written all over it, but then we knew you’re here, so it didn’t make sense. Then Khivar threw a major fit and Neeklas was seen whisked away by Someri who soon came to us at the end of his duty. We gave him the invisible spell so he went back and returned to say that Neeklas was actually laughing his head off about Khivar losing his new toy and rambling about wanting to contact me! We think he has lost it! Someri had gone before with the messenger who runs Khivar’s whores’ errands and stayed to hear them talking to themselves as they waited for the man to return with their urgent stuff. That’s how he heard directly the information about the boy to make sure it wasn’t just hearsay. So when he saw the messenger going to the brothel as he was returning to us, he went again with him, but the errands were just the normal ones and Someri risked checking the place inside out and there was no sign of any boy. Then he heard the latest piece of gossip about the boy being taken back home with only Neeklas’ consent and Khivar was furious. Still, it makes no sense. We suspect it has been Neeklas all the time sending the news to the people through his powers, so no one really knows how they heard it first. That’s his style. But why would he want to talk to me? I don’t trust him or whatever his intentions are, so there is no way I will accept meeting him. Someri says that since Neeklas incurred in Khivar’s rage, people are staying away from him because of Khivar’s fury, so he’s holding his own in his lair, making who knows what plans. Khivar will have to cave in anytime now, because we all know he’s not the brains of the team, and it doesn’t take much to know that Neeklas brooding by himself spells danger. I don’t like how this is turning out. It’s better when those two are in good terms. Rath-Michael, what’s wrong, son? -
- It’s just the human drugs, they have me kind of dizzy, that’s all. - Michael sighed and smirked, reassuring his father.
- Get well fast, alright? We’re not that far from ready. - Ramthis nodded.
- When will you know for sure you’re ready? What will it take? - Michael asked.
- You ask me that? Our army, of course! Everyday we get more deserters from Khivar’s followers. We need to be sure our army is larger than his, we need to double their numbers, because they have the hired mercenaries on their side and those will fight to the death. There’s no other place for them in the universe now, so this is their last stand. We have to fight against that so we need the odds on our side to be able to defeat them. We’re almost there, we’re already more than one and a half to one. The second we’re two to one, that’s it! Nothing will stop us if you’re with us! - Ramthis exclaimed enthusiastically.
- You know I’ll be there, nothing can stop me either. You can be sure of that. - Michael locked his eyes with his father’s.
- Take care son, I’ll keep in touch. - Ramthis bent to kiss his son’s lips and vanished in a rainbow of colours.
- He’s very optimistic, if not, the colours wouldn’t have been so bright. - Serena observed. - Ok, the nurse should be here any minute. Then we’ll know how efficient we were. At least the cops or security haven’t been knocking on the door! -
Serena had meant it as a joke, but none seemed to take it like that. As if on cue, there was a soft knock on the door and Isabel waved it unlocked. The nurse came in with her usual friendly smile and it was obvious that nothing out of the ordinary had happened there as far as she was concerned.
- So, we’re all colleagues here, right? - She quipped, winking at Stuart.
- I guess I’m the only one not into that. - Wayne said, going a little green at the sight of the syringes on the tray.
He moved towards the door closely followed by Laurie, who was quite pale too, and Serena, mostly to be out of the way. They just stood there, as the whole group surrounded the bed keeping the action thankfully away from them. The gasps and moans told them clearly that whatever was going on, they were much better off as long as it was out of their sight. When the nurse left, the three of them went over to Michael. Laurie kissed his cheek and wrapped her arm around his shoulders, taking his hand in hers.
- Hey, baby bro…- She whispered.
- Hey big sis…- He whispered back, opening his eyes and Laurie’s filled with tears at the pain she saw in them.
- You heard your father, get well soon. - Serena added, taking his other hand and kissing it.
Michael tried to smirk but ended biting his lip hard.
- Easy, kid, just take it easy, you’ll be ready when you are, not before, so nobody and nothing can hurry you to it, if they want it right! - Wayne tousled his hair affectionately.
He couldn’t be jealous of Michael; he wouldn’t be able to take even a fraction of what the boy could, no thanks! He saw his eyes closing and knew that whatever they had pumped into him was working, at least momentarily. Very gently, Laurie and Serena let go of him and moved away, ignoring his soft moan of protest.
- You need to sleep, baby. - Maria said, taking Laurie’s place as Isabel and Ava approached the bed from the other side, sitting on the easy chair side by side.
Liz shared the other one with Maria as the guys talked in hushed tones on the couch. Serena stood at the foot of the bed looking at Michael with a slight frown. Right now, she would give anything to be just an ordinary human mother, with no more problems in the world than family and home. Wishful thinking!
Stuart’s mobile phone rang and he excused himself and went outside. A few minutes later, he called for them at the door and asked for help to get all the sleeping bags he was carrying in his arms.
- Where did all that come from? - Kyle asked.
- I called Anita and asked her to have Rubén bring the stuff over. I had to explain to her the best way possible what we were doing here and take her crying and praying to every divinity she knows of for the best part of five whole minutes before I heard Sylvia screaming at her to shut up and took the phone from her. I had to give her the whole thing again and she took it much better, with some sobbing and sniffling. Rubén came with Javi and they sent Michael their best wishes for a fast recovery. - Stuart explained.
- What did you tell them had happened to Michael? - Max wondered.
- The same barbed wire thing, but in school instead. - Stuart said.
They had to admit it was a good idea to stick to the barbed wire wherever, so their stories would always match, just in case.
After the nurse’s 10:00 pm check up, Stuart decided no one would be making any surprise entries as visiting hours were also over.They soundproofed the room after locking the door, and Max and Stuart approached the bed. The rest gave them the privacy they knew Max preferred.
Agreeing with Stuart, Max first performed a digital connection to heal the area that would have to take the deeper one for the kind of healing that would be needed. He was very gentle and careful, especially because Wayne was totally new to this and Ava wasn’t that far behind either. Every sound that escaped Michael’s lips made Max grimace, wondering how the two “rookies” were taking it. Once, he managed to steal a glance at the group and saw Serena was sitting between Ava and Wayne, who had Laurie right beside him, and talking to them.
Max could tell their tension was calming down with Serena’s soothing words and was very thankful to the powerful seer. Apparently, everything was exactly the same, but Max had changed the depth of the wounds, healing them from inside out, so that they were just a little more than superficial. The only way of seeing the difference would be cutting Michael open, and that certainly wasn’t going to happen. After that, Stuart buzzed the nurse to bring him a strong sedative to make sure Michael got a deep long sleep. Anyway, the drip was down to the last drops and she was bringing a fresh bag. Stuart spiked the new bag with only the painkiller and shot some of the strong sedative iv, with the rest by his own method of im infiltration in Michael’s thighs, hoping everything went as planned and Michael could be out of there asap for Max to heal him completely.
They made themselves comfortable and if the nurse came ten times during the night, she must have tiptoed, because no one heard her.
Next morning, Laurie, coached by Stuart, pulled a performance worth an Oscar. The whole hospital went out of their minds looking for the Rolex that Laurie described to the last detail, exactly like Stuart’s because she had bought it with him at the same time as a gift to her brother. Everyone went to classes leaving Michael with Stuart, Serena and Wayne. Derek called to say he would be back in Tucson the day after the next and to send his love to Michael. Stuart went on his rounds after changing the drip again and spiking it this time with both the pain killer and the mild sedative for the daytime. The first thing he heard was that the ambulance crew had gone to take the polygraph test as he had said they would and Laurie would go for the second part of the plan after school, accepting to forget the whole thing if Michael was released to their care. So they only had to wait. Serena needed desperately to do some meditation, her nerves at the breaking point after what Ramthis had informed them about the closeness to the final showdown. She went to sit in a corner behind the easy chair, so that it covered her completely from intruding eyes. Wayne took the other chair and sat by Michael who was still asleep. When the boy moaned and groped around for a hand to hold on to, Wayne took Michael’s in both of his, and sat back dozing. He had taken one of his sleeping pills last night and the effect was beginning to wear out. He woke up when Michael squeezed his hand as he clearly called Maria in a husky voice. Wayne looked up to see the nurse was pushing the thermometer into Michael and he could tell, from her startled expression, that she was wondering why the boy would connect his girlfriend with what she was doing to him, but her grin right after, had her guessing kinky activity. Their eyes met so Wayne shrugged and grinned back. The nurse nodded knowingly and went on with her thing while Wayne looked anywhere but at what she was doing or at Michael’s wincing face.
- You ok, kid? - Wayne asked as the nurse headed for the door with her tray.
By the time she left, the pain of the injections had woken Michael up completely.
- You really had a good night’s sleep! - Wayne chuckled.
- Mmm…- Michael sighed and smirked.
Wayne reached over and patted his cheek and this time Michael smiled.
- Any better? - Wayne couldn’t help smiling back.
- I guess, hurts different. Where’s Serena? - He looked as far as he could over his shoulder.
- In the corner, behind the chair, she’s meditating. It relaxes her, and believe me, she needs it. - Wayne nodded.
- Yeah, I know. Wish I could do that, but when I try, I just get flashes which remind me of things I would rather forget. - Michael said wistfully.
- It must’ve been hard for you as a kid, huh? Cause you were alone, right? -
- I spent three years dealing with my powers without a clue, and not having anyone to talk about them or guide me or explain them to me. Max and Isabel at least had each other for that, and I had them much later when we finally got together again. -
- Man, that was tough, how did you manage not to get caught? -
- Pure luck I guess. I remember the orphanage and seeing some kids bullied by the bigger ones. I wondered why they didn’t blast them, so I didn’t do it either wanting to find out why first. It took me almost a week to get to the language, so they thought I had forgetten it in a traumatic situation and it was just coming back. Then when another kid was pushed around, I asked him why he didn’t blast the jerks and he laughed. He said: “sure man, like I’m Superman or some superhero. This isn’t a cartoon, you know? Are you nuts or what?” He got me thinking they really couldn’t do it, so I was glad I hadn’t, cause they would’ve thought I was some kind of freak, which of course I was. -
Michael told him them that time he had blasted the boy who was bothering the girl and thankfully, it was very weak still, so the idiot had thought he had tossed a lit match at him. He had taken to just use his hands and strength and got spanked for it. He didn’t care; he still defended his friends and got punished for it every time.
- What happened when you got back with Max and Isabel? -
- They were scared shitless at people finding out about their powers. It had taken then longer to get the language because they were just home with their new parents for some time before they went to school and they were very patient with them, teaching them the language at their own pace. I was surrounded by kids chattering around me all the time so it was faster and easier for me. They were also laughed at by the Evans when they spoke of their powers, taking it as a joke. They had broken a few things at first and when they reached out to fix them, they had slapped their hands away, afraid they would cut themselves, so they were careful of what they did not to make mistakes, thinking they had been angry. Max healed his and Isabel’s scratches and when Diane cut her finger once in the kitchen, Max offered to heal her but she just laughed and patted his head. She told him something like perhaps some day he would become a doctor and then he would really be able to heal her. When he realized she didn’t believe him, he decided he better not push it, because why would she refuse to get healed? The same thing happened to Isabel when she offered Diane to fix a tape that had snagged and she reacted just like she had with Max. They had a talk and decided that people couldn’t do what they did, so they better be careful. Isabel had the same reaction from a friend in school over a cassette tape, so she was absolutely sure by then that they were different. Max told me if they found out we were freaks, they would send us to prison and burn us up because he had seen it in a film. Isabel said their parents loved them and they would never do that to them so Max told her to do one of her tricks with her mother, just to try it out, but Isabel said she didn’t want to scare her. When they asked about my dad, I told them he would beat the crap out of me if I did something funny, he already had, just because I spilled him with soda. -
- Mom says he beat you, and…- Wayne looked down, knowing he shouldn’t have gone there, it just slipped.
- Yeah, he fucked me too, but he would say he loved me when he did it. Of course, he was cockeyed drunk; he always was when he came home. He had some beers with his pals on the way home, and he kept drinking when he arrived. He would get pissed and horny at anything I did, so I just got it. Max and Isabel had no idea what my life was like until I got that stupid black eye and Max had to open his big mouth so Isabel took me under her wing. So far, I had got away saying the damn neighbours had it in for me, and knowing my temper, and where I lived, they believed it. At least, it was for the best. Hank vanished and I had my own crummy place plus a job at Liz’s parent’s Crashdown, as a cook. It was better than using the window to Max’s or Maria’s, risking getting caught. - Michael scoffed.
- I heard you did get caught. - Wayne chuckled.
- Shit! Amy whacked me with a newspaper but Diane was very sweet to me. - Michael smiled, remembering.
Suddenly, Michael felt a boost of energy travelling up his spine, beginning at his lowest vertebra. He winced and wondered why Serena was doing that to him.
- Serena? - He called her.
- I’ll get her. She’s been there long enough, she has me worried too. - Wayne got up and went to his “mother”, placing his fingertips on her temples as she had taught him, to bring her out of it if he needed her.
Serena opened her eyes and stared at her “son”.
- Wayne? What is it? - She asked, sure something was wrong.
- Michael’s calling you. - He saw her shoot up to her feet with amazing agility for someone her age.
- Michael? - She asked, rushing to him.
- Serena, what were you trying to do me? - She was the only one who did that to him to stabilize his energy flow when it got out of balance, but since that wasn’t the case right now, he wondered what it was.
- No Michael, it wasn’t me, maybe it was Liz? - She knew Michael could tell between her and Liz, but maybe he was a little off because of the drugs.
- No, Liz doesn’t do it the way you do. My mistake, sorry. Maybe I just need to sleep. - Michael knew he was missing something which was familiar, yet kind of new at the same time.
He had almost had it when the nurse arrived and he just lost it.
“She will not remember anything. What was she doing to my son?” The ex-warlord asked using a mental communication in case his voice and language would attract the wrong attention.
“She was medicating him to help fight the infection from the wounds. She wasn’t hurting him.” Liz assured him.
“That’s not what I saw.” Ramthis doubted her.
“I meant she wasn’t causing him any harm, though I admit the application was painful.” Liz accepted.
The door opened and the whole gang squeezed into the room. Wayne was staring at Ramthis in absolute fear, so Serena introduced him.
“Ava, get the human female out of the room and send her on her way. I don’t think you will, but see if you need your powers to make her forget she saw me.” Ramthis ordered.
Ava nodded and took the nurse by the shoulders, leading her stiffly to the door. She placed her tray with the used stuff in her hands and the second she stepped outside, her movements returned to normal so she just left along the corridor to the left. The door was finally closed and they all turned to the alien presence. Ramthis knelt on the floor by the bed and took Michael’s hand in one of his while he caressed his son’s face and hair with the other. The interaction was so tender, unlike what was usually expected of the harsh being. Suddenly, to everyone’s surprise, Max knelt on the other side taking Michael’s other hand and Ramthis raised his head to face his nephew.
“You’ve dared failed him again, Zan?” His booming voice made Max tremble.
“No, no! Uncle, you don’t understand! It wasn’t like that! I was…- But he was interrupted.
“Father, he’s right, you don’t understand. You would have to be here to do so. We must live human lives not to be discovered. I am following the typical human cycle of education with my sister…- Michael began.
“But she’s a girl and she’s older, she should already have…- Ramthis was in turn interrupted by his son.
“She was unfairly kept away from it by her relatives who wanted what was her due after her parents and then her grandfather died. Remember him? Charles Dupree? He was my DNA donor’s twin? Here boys and girls study together so we’re at the same school. Max, well, Zan for you, is studying the human healing techniques to do something possitive with his life here as we wait, and so are the others to be together in this adventure and help those they can. Trust me father, Zan is now always here for me, but when this happened, I blocked them out not to get any of them in trouble because of me. They didn’t know what was happening and they were here right away when they finally did. Don’t get it wrong, it’s not like you to do so.” Michael squeezed his father’s hand and Max’s at the same time, reaching a reasonable understanding.
“I’m sorry, child, and Zan, my apologies too. All this has me going out of my mind. Let me tell you what’s happening here.” Ramthis’ expression changed completely into one of kindness rarely seen in him but not totally unheard off. “Someri heard Khivar and Neeklas having heated arguments, afraid they would come to blows and he would have to separate them, but they didn’t probably because they knew he was out there standing guard. Then there was this talk about Khivar keeping a boy at his private brothel, rumours said it was the son of one of his powerful allies from one of the other planets who was sent to him to be out of danger from their enemies, to us it had Rath-Michael written all over it, but then we knew you’re here, so it didn’t make sense. Then Khivar threw a major fit and Neeklas was seen whisked away by Someri who soon came to us at the end of his duty. We gave him the invisible spell so he went back and returned to say that Neeklas was actually laughing his head off about Khivar losing his new toy and rambling about wanting to contact me! We think he has lost it! Someri had gone before with the messenger who runs Khivar’s whores’ errands and stayed to hear them talking to themselves as they waited for the man to return with their urgent stuff. That’s how he heard directly the information about the boy to make sure it wasn’t just hearsay. So when he saw the messenger going to the brothel as he was returning to us, he went again with him, but the errands were just the normal ones and Someri risked checking the place inside out and there was no sign of any boy. Then he heard the latest piece of gossip about the boy being taken back home with only Neeklas’ consent and Khivar was furious. Still, it makes no sense. We suspect it has been Neeklas all the time sending the news to the people through his powers, so no one really knows how they heard it first. That’s his style. But why would he want to talk to me? I don’t trust him or whatever his intentions are, so there is no way I will accept meeting him. Someri says that since Neeklas incurred in Khivar’s rage, people are staying away from him because of Khivar’s fury, so he’s holding his own in his lair, making who knows what plans. Khivar will have to cave in anytime now, because we all know he’s not the brains of the team, and it doesn’t take much to know that Neeklas brooding by himself spells danger. I don’t like how this is turning out. It’s better when those two are in good terms. Rath-Michael, what’s wrong, son? -
- It’s just the human drugs, they have me kind of dizzy, that’s all. - Michael sighed and smirked, reassuring his father.
- Get well fast, alright? We’re not that far from ready. - Ramthis nodded.
- When will you know for sure you’re ready? What will it take? - Michael asked.
- You ask me that? Our army, of course! Everyday we get more deserters from Khivar’s followers. We need to be sure our army is larger than his, we need to double their numbers, because they have the hired mercenaries on their side and those will fight to the death. There’s no other place for them in the universe now, so this is their last stand. We have to fight against that so we need the odds on our side to be able to defeat them. We’re almost there, we’re already more than one and a half to one. The second we’re two to one, that’s it! Nothing will stop us if you’re with us! - Ramthis exclaimed enthusiastically.
- You know I’ll be there, nothing can stop me either. You can be sure of that. - Michael locked his eyes with his father’s.
- Take care son, I’ll keep in touch. - Ramthis bent to kiss his son’s lips and vanished in a rainbow of colours.
- He’s very optimistic, if not, the colours wouldn’t have been so bright. - Serena observed. - Ok, the nurse should be here any minute. Then we’ll know how efficient we were. At least the cops or security haven’t been knocking on the door! -
Serena had meant it as a joke, but none seemed to take it like that. As if on cue, there was a soft knock on the door and Isabel waved it unlocked. The nurse came in with her usual friendly smile and it was obvious that nothing out of the ordinary had happened there as far as she was concerned.
- So, we’re all colleagues here, right? - She quipped, winking at Stuart.
- I guess I’m the only one not into that. - Wayne said, going a little green at the sight of the syringes on the tray.
He moved towards the door closely followed by Laurie, who was quite pale too, and Serena, mostly to be out of the way. They just stood there, as the whole group surrounded the bed keeping the action thankfully away from them. The gasps and moans told them clearly that whatever was going on, they were much better off as long as it was out of their sight. When the nurse left, the three of them went over to Michael. Laurie kissed his cheek and wrapped her arm around his shoulders, taking his hand in hers.
- Hey, baby bro…- She whispered.
- Hey big sis…- He whispered back, opening his eyes and Laurie’s filled with tears at the pain she saw in them.
- You heard your father, get well soon. - Serena added, taking his other hand and kissing it.
Michael tried to smirk but ended biting his lip hard.
- Easy, kid, just take it easy, you’ll be ready when you are, not before, so nobody and nothing can hurry you to it, if they want it right! - Wayne tousled his hair affectionately.
He couldn’t be jealous of Michael; he wouldn’t be able to take even a fraction of what the boy could, no thanks! He saw his eyes closing and knew that whatever they had pumped into him was working, at least momentarily. Very gently, Laurie and Serena let go of him and moved away, ignoring his soft moan of protest.
- You need to sleep, baby. - Maria said, taking Laurie’s place as Isabel and Ava approached the bed from the other side, sitting on the easy chair side by side.
Liz shared the other one with Maria as the guys talked in hushed tones on the couch. Serena stood at the foot of the bed looking at Michael with a slight frown. Right now, she would give anything to be just an ordinary human mother, with no more problems in the world than family and home. Wishful thinking!
Stuart’s mobile phone rang and he excused himself and went outside. A few minutes later, he called for them at the door and asked for help to get all the sleeping bags he was carrying in his arms.
- Where did all that come from? - Kyle asked.
- I called Anita and asked her to have Rubén bring the stuff over. I had to explain to her the best way possible what we were doing here and take her crying and praying to every divinity she knows of for the best part of five whole minutes before I heard Sylvia screaming at her to shut up and took the phone from her. I had to give her the whole thing again and she took it much better, with some sobbing and sniffling. Rubén came with Javi and they sent Michael their best wishes for a fast recovery. - Stuart explained.
- What did you tell them had happened to Michael? - Max wondered.
- The same barbed wire thing, but in school instead. - Stuart said.
They had to admit it was a good idea to stick to the barbed wire wherever, so their stories would always match, just in case.
After the nurse’s 10:00 pm check up, Stuart decided no one would be making any surprise entries as visiting hours were also over.They soundproofed the room after locking the door, and Max and Stuart approached the bed. The rest gave them the privacy they knew Max preferred.
Agreeing with Stuart, Max first performed a digital connection to heal the area that would have to take the deeper one for the kind of healing that would be needed. He was very gentle and careful, especially because Wayne was totally new to this and Ava wasn’t that far behind either. Every sound that escaped Michael’s lips made Max grimace, wondering how the two “rookies” were taking it. Once, he managed to steal a glance at the group and saw Serena was sitting between Ava and Wayne, who had Laurie right beside him, and talking to them.
Max could tell their tension was calming down with Serena’s soothing words and was very thankful to the powerful seer. Apparently, everything was exactly the same, but Max had changed the depth of the wounds, healing them from inside out, so that they were just a little more than superficial. The only way of seeing the difference would be cutting Michael open, and that certainly wasn’t going to happen. After that, Stuart buzzed the nurse to bring him a strong sedative to make sure Michael got a deep long sleep. Anyway, the drip was down to the last drops and she was bringing a fresh bag. Stuart spiked the new bag with only the painkiller and shot some of the strong sedative iv, with the rest by his own method of im infiltration in Michael’s thighs, hoping everything went as planned and Michael could be out of there asap for Max to heal him completely.
They made themselves comfortable and if the nurse came ten times during the night, she must have tiptoed, because no one heard her.
Next morning, Laurie, coached by Stuart, pulled a performance worth an Oscar. The whole hospital went out of their minds looking for the Rolex that Laurie described to the last detail, exactly like Stuart’s because she had bought it with him at the same time as a gift to her brother. Everyone went to classes leaving Michael with Stuart, Serena and Wayne. Derek called to say he would be back in Tucson the day after the next and to send his love to Michael. Stuart went on his rounds after changing the drip again and spiking it this time with both the pain killer and the mild sedative for the daytime. The first thing he heard was that the ambulance crew had gone to take the polygraph test as he had said they would and Laurie would go for the second part of the plan after school, accepting to forget the whole thing if Michael was released to their care. So they only had to wait. Serena needed desperately to do some meditation, her nerves at the breaking point after what Ramthis had informed them about the closeness to the final showdown. She went to sit in a corner behind the easy chair, so that it covered her completely from intruding eyes. Wayne took the other chair and sat by Michael who was still asleep. When the boy moaned and groped around for a hand to hold on to, Wayne took Michael’s in both of his, and sat back dozing. He had taken one of his sleeping pills last night and the effect was beginning to wear out. He woke up when Michael squeezed his hand as he clearly called Maria in a husky voice. Wayne looked up to see the nurse was pushing the thermometer into Michael and he could tell, from her startled expression, that she was wondering why the boy would connect his girlfriend with what she was doing to him, but her grin right after, had her guessing kinky activity. Their eyes met so Wayne shrugged and grinned back. The nurse nodded knowingly and went on with her thing while Wayne looked anywhere but at what she was doing or at Michael’s wincing face.
- You ok, kid? - Wayne asked as the nurse headed for the door with her tray.
By the time she left, the pain of the injections had woken Michael up completely.
- You really had a good night’s sleep! - Wayne chuckled.
- Mmm…- Michael sighed and smirked.
Wayne reached over and patted his cheek and this time Michael smiled.
- Any better? - Wayne couldn’t help smiling back.
- I guess, hurts different. Where’s Serena? - He looked as far as he could over his shoulder.
- In the corner, behind the chair, she’s meditating. It relaxes her, and believe me, she needs it. - Wayne nodded.
- Yeah, I know. Wish I could do that, but when I try, I just get flashes which remind me of things I would rather forget. - Michael said wistfully.
- It must’ve been hard for you as a kid, huh? Cause you were alone, right? -
- I spent three years dealing with my powers without a clue, and not having anyone to talk about them or guide me or explain them to me. Max and Isabel at least had each other for that, and I had them much later when we finally got together again. -
- Man, that was tough, how did you manage not to get caught? -
- Pure luck I guess. I remember the orphanage and seeing some kids bullied by the bigger ones. I wondered why they didn’t blast them, so I didn’t do it either wanting to find out why first. It took me almost a week to get to the language, so they thought I had forgetten it in a traumatic situation and it was just coming back. Then when another kid was pushed around, I asked him why he didn’t blast the jerks and he laughed. He said: “sure man, like I’m Superman or some superhero. This isn’t a cartoon, you know? Are you nuts or what?” He got me thinking they really couldn’t do it, so I was glad I hadn’t, cause they would’ve thought I was some kind of freak, which of course I was. -
Michael told him them that time he had blasted the boy who was bothering the girl and thankfully, it was very weak still, so the idiot had thought he had tossed a lit match at him. He had taken to just use his hands and strength and got spanked for it. He didn’t care; he still defended his friends and got punished for it every time.
- What happened when you got back with Max and Isabel? -
- They were scared shitless at people finding out about their powers. It had taken then longer to get the language because they were just home with their new parents for some time before they went to school and they were very patient with them, teaching them the language at their own pace. I was surrounded by kids chattering around me all the time so it was faster and easier for me. They were also laughed at by the Evans when they spoke of their powers, taking it as a joke. They had broken a few things at first and when they reached out to fix them, they had slapped their hands away, afraid they would cut themselves, so they were careful of what they did not to make mistakes, thinking they had been angry. Max healed his and Isabel’s scratches and when Diane cut her finger once in the kitchen, Max offered to heal her but she just laughed and patted his head. She told him something like perhaps some day he would become a doctor and then he would really be able to heal her. When he realized she didn’t believe him, he decided he better not push it, because why would she refuse to get healed? The same thing happened to Isabel when she offered Diane to fix a tape that had snagged and she reacted just like she had with Max. They had a talk and decided that people couldn’t do what they did, so they better be careful. Isabel had the same reaction from a friend in school over a cassette tape, so she was absolutely sure by then that they were different. Max told me if they found out we were freaks, they would send us to prison and burn us up because he had seen it in a film. Isabel said their parents loved them and they would never do that to them so Max told her to do one of her tricks with her mother, just to try it out, but Isabel said she didn’t want to scare her. When they asked about my dad, I told them he would beat the crap out of me if I did something funny, he already had, just because I spilled him with soda. -
- Mom says he beat you, and…- Wayne looked down, knowing he shouldn’t have gone there, it just slipped.
- Yeah, he fucked me too, but he would say he loved me when he did it. Of course, he was cockeyed drunk; he always was when he came home. He had some beers with his pals on the way home, and he kept drinking when he arrived. He would get pissed and horny at anything I did, so I just got it. Max and Isabel had no idea what my life was like until I got that stupid black eye and Max had to open his big mouth so Isabel took me under her wing. So far, I had got away saying the damn neighbours had it in for me, and knowing my temper, and where I lived, they believed it. At least, it was for the best. Hank vanished and I had my own crummy place plus a job at Liz’s parent’s Crashdown, as a cook. It was better than using the window to Max’s or Maria’s, risking getting caught. - Michael scoffed.
- I heard you did get caught. - Wayne chuckled.
- Shit! Amy whacked me with a newspaper but Diane was very sweet to me. - Michael smiled, remembering.
Suddenly, Michael felt a boost of energy travelling up his spine, beginning at his lowest vertebra. He winced and wondered why Serena was doing that to him.
- Serena? - He called her.
- I’ll get her. She’s been there long enough, she has me worried too. - Wayne got up and went to his “mother”, placing his fingertips on her temples as she had taught him, to bring her out of it if he needed her.
Serena opened her eyes and stared at her “son”.
- Wayne? What is it? - She asked, sure something was wrong.
- Michael’s calling you. - He saw her shoot up to her feet with amazing agility for someone her age.
- Michael? - She asked, rushing to him.
- Serena, what were you trying to do me? - She was the only one who did that to him to stabilize his energy flow when it got out of balance, but since that wasn’t the case right now, he wondered what it was.
- No Michael, it wasn’t me, maybe it was Liz? - She knew Michael could tell between her and Liz, but maybe he was a little off because of the drugs.
- No, Liz doesn’t do it the way you do. My mistake, sorry. Maybe I just need to sleep. - Michael knew he was missing something which was familiar, yet kind of new at the same time.
He had almost had it when the nurse arrived and he just lost it.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 64
It was just the hour’s check up, no medication, just to see everything was ok. They had told her the kid was an important patient, so that meant he was loaded. She had done her private investigation and yes, she had found out two major sources of gossip. One said he was the love child of Charles Dupree jr. who had been raised in the rain forest of South America after his pregnant mother’s plane crashed there and she was never the same mentally. A local had taken care of them and acted as a foster father. He was abusive and not only beat but raped the boy too. He had been rescued by an American couple and brought back home where his sister found him. The other rumour said he had been dumped in the alien capital of Roswell with a drunken abusive and raping foster father who said the aliens had given the boy to him and was found there accidentally by his half sister. Both ended saying he still didn’t take her invitation to live with her, not giving a damn about the money until she practically begged him to join her. Now the girl had raised hell about the kid’s lost watch so he had become twice as important to try to stop him from sueing. He seemed a nice boy, cute, great bod, took everything they had done to him without complaining…still, you never knew. She saw he was awake and went over to touch his face. He had these intense honey coloured eyes, very aware and intelligent in spite of the drugs. She could’ve sworn she saw a glint of electric blue streaks in them a couple of times, but it could’ve been the light. He smiled biting his lower lip and she found it amazingly sexy. Shit, he must be half her age! He was just sleep warm and winced when he tried to snuggle on the bed.
- You must be very uncomfortable…- She observed.
- No, I’m fine, I sleep like this. Just hurts when I move, that’s all. - He smirked, damn sexy again.
She checked the drip, then found the wounds were healing quite nicely. She passed her finger over one in the middle of his butt and watched him shiver as he gasped. She had just skimmed over it, she couldn’t have hurt him.
- Tickles…- He whispered and chuckled, making her laugh.
- Sorry about your watch, I don’t think they’ve found it yet…- She said.
- Oh, that! Laurie insisted on buying it, I’m ok with a Swatch. - He grinned and he looked this time like the kid he was. - She’s bloody pissed. -
- I hope they find it. - She nodded and he just shrugged, obviously not giving a damn about it.
If someone sued, it would be the sister, not him. She brought out a tube from her pocket and squeezed some cool ointment on his thighs. He squirmed and went: “Mmm” so she explained.
- This will help you absorb and ease the pain. - She worked it in very gently and carefully, feeling the muscles under her hands going rock hard.
“Jesus, what does this boy do? Oh yes, the girl said he rides. Wow! It sure as hell works! If I weren’t so scared of horses…and if I had the time!” She scoffed, but was glad to feel him relaxing just a bit. She knew she was good at massages, so she moved her hands up to his back. She started at his shoulders and went as far down as she could until the wounds began. He had many very subtle scars in his back area, which had her wondering how much of what she had heard about him was true. She turned towards the couch, feeling the eyes of the woman and the young man, on her. She had heard him call her “Mom”, and Stuart had told her she was a colleague, so what were they to the boy? It was none of her business! She was surprised when the woman’s question clarified her thoughts.
- How’s my nephew doing? - She asked pleasantly.
- He’ll be fine, the scars will fade though a plastic surgery would take them completely away. - She suggested.
- What for? I’m not a stripper. - He winked at her, jokingly. - Well, just privately…my girlfriend, you know? -
The girlfriend of course! Lucky girl! She’d pay to watch him strip and so would her friends! Watching him naked on a hospital bed wasn’t the same, though she got to do things to him she wouldn’t be able to, as an audience. Bet the girl made him bend over going on all fours so she could play with those chains. Oh yes, she had noticed the piercings! How could she miss them as she took his temperature and gave him the rectal medication? She didn’t understand what they would do to him during sex with his girl, no matter which position she took. She had a few flashes, one after the other, of him on the girl, as she pulled at a chord over the small of his back which disappeared between his buttocks, then the short brunette behind him with a dildo strapped on her, giving it to him as he fucked his girl, kissing her pouty lips, then his girl behind him doing him with the toy as he took the tall blonde that seemed to be close to Dr. Davis, with his face buried between her luscious breasts. And to wrap up the show, all the guys, one after the other, Dr. Davis included, as the boy lay there over a rolled sleeping bag hugging a pillow to his chest and face, writhing in agony and pleasure. The sleeping bag was pulled away and the one who had just fucked him took its place on his back from the side, giving him a blowjob as the next one rammed into his ass. The ones waiting in line were jerking themselves to be ready for him when their turn finally came. By the time they were all through with him, she could see the blood flecked cum seeping out of him down the insides of both his thighs, noticing two bleeding tears in his opening, one towards the back and the other one towards the front on the right side.
- Are you alright, dear? - Serena decided it was about time to get her away from the powerful Michael vibes, knowing clearly what they were doing to her.
She shook her head and closed her mouth, realizing she must have looked like an idiot. She pressed the heels of her hands on her temples, closing her eyes and then let go to shake her head.
- I guess I’m getting a headache. I’ll get some aspirin. - She smiled apologetically wondering if they had bought it.
They seemed to have believed her as they just turned to each other and continued their conversation. She wanted to check him out, sure she had seen the scars where the rips were in her vision, but she hadn’t even brought a thermometer to justify her spreading him and looking. She would have to wait until the next check up, dammit! She could hardly wait to give him the next suppository, now sure she hadn’t imagined the buzz she had felt on her fingertip when she pushed it in. Man, this kid was so hot! She was certain that if she were a guy, she would find the way or pay whatever he wanted to fill his ass.
- Bye now…- She said as casually as she could, heading for the door, uncaring of her almost controlled shaky legs.
- What was that? - Wayne said, quiet aware something alien had happened though not sure exactly what.
- Michael vibes. He can’t help it; he doesn’t even know he does it. - Serena laughed at her naïve “son”, needing to elaborate. - He flashed her one hell of a porno in which he starred with several different partners and combinations that just about blew her mind. -
- Show me! - He blushed the second the words left his mouth and looked down at his hands. - Sorry…-
- Wayne, you’re a grown man! C’mon! You’ll get them from him anytime, but you won’t get them from me. - She laughed and went over to see how Michael was taking it, surprised he hadn’t joined in her laughter.
Michael was fast asleep, looking so peaceful and innocent that she had to lean over and kiss his cheek. She returned to the couch, shaking her head and smiling.
- He’s asleep. - She sighed.
- He’s special. - Wayne nodded.
- You can say that again. - Serena quipped, patting his knee as she sat down.
“Michael…Michael…” He felt he was floating as he lay on a cloud. He could even feel the fluffy composition of the cumulus against his naked front. He felt like the yellow pages, with fingers doing the walking up the inside of his thighs. He squirmed at the tickling and smirked.
“Michael…” The hands now cupped his butt and squeezed.
Michael teasingly shook from side to side, not really wanting to get rid of them, rather encouraging them to continue their explorations.
“I’ll do anything you want when you open your eyes…” The voice was definitely familiar though the friendliness in it didn’t seem to coincide.
A fingertip prodded at his opening and he bucked to get it into him but it was pulled away just in time. Michael moaned, frustrated.
“Open your eyes!” The coaxing had become a demand and Michael obeyed, more out of curiosity than compliance.
“You!” Michael exclaimed as he twisted his upper body, looking behind him to see Nicholas sitting crosslegged between his widespread thighs.
He pushed up on his knees and the cloud wobbled.
“Shit!” He shouted as he lay back down, pressing his cheek on the soft surface, relieved to feel the fragile material under him stabilizing. “What the hell am I doing here? Why are you here with me?”
“You’re dreaming. I didn’t want you to reject me cause then I would just have to go. See? Your questioning me is making me fade. Please don’t send me away!”
“Ok, then answer my questions.” Michael looked around, appreciating the peace and beauty that surrounded them. “Wait, I have nothing to ask you, I know exactly what you are feeling.”
“Then just let me touch you.” Nicholas’ hands slid over his ass and Michael felt he was doing something to him. “You’re so beautiful! Your skin shouldn’t be marred by these horrid scars!”
Nicholas watched them disappear under his fluttering fingers as he moved down taking care of the ones on the back of his thighs.
“Don’t! Let them be. I’ll get in trouble if the disappear just like that. We all will, bring them back!” Michael ordered.
“You should hate them because Khivar did them to you!” Nicholas frowned, obeying. “I need to show you something.”
- Michael! Michael! Wake up! - Serena kept shouting from very far away.
“Don’t let her interrupt us, this is important! She doesn’t understand!” Nicholas urged and Michael believed him, blocking himself out completely, the last thing he felt was her frustration and anger at being cut off from him.
“Alright, you win for now, we’re alone, what do you want?” Michael smirked and Nicholas leant over and kissed him quickly on the lips, before he could move away.
“Hey!” Michael protested, using the back of his hand to wipe his lips.
Nicholas giggled when he saw Michael was grinning, rather amused.
“Beware of Jesse Ramirez and his new partner. She’s as vicious as a trained pitbull and looks just like one. They’re putting up one hell of a show for the feds but they have different plans. And they include you. Isabel will have some news tomorrow during her everyday dreamwalk meeting with Agent Duff. What I’ll show you now will make sense with what Isabel will find out next morning.” He said, watching Michael bite his lip in thought, and started leaning over for another kiss, but this time Michael was faster than him and stopped him, holding him at arms’ length.
“Whoa! Keep still, will you? Why don’t you give me the whole thing?” He asked, narrowing his eyes in suspicion.
“Because the FBI lady will only get a part, so why lose energy if you’re going to get it from her anyway?” Nicholas tried to shake himself free to no avail.
“Ok, give it to me then, but don’t touch me...” Nicholas felt from Michael the same rejection he felt from Khivar, making his eyes go sad, but the next word brought a smile of hope back to his face: “Yet.”
Michael was going through very conflictive emotions. When he felt Nicholas’ sadness at his rejection, comparing it to Khivar’s, he also felt Max’s rejection when they were younger, and it was the same as Khivar’s. He watched Nicholas go to his task eagerly and felt a weight lift from his shoulders. A hole opened in the cloud just in front of his face and he turned to see the small man’s face in full concentration as he sat beside him, still crosslegged. His knee was resting on Michael’s shoulder, but he didn’t move away, feeling the slight weight on the very spot where Grant Sorenson’s bullet had entered his body. The scene in front of their eyes had them focused on what was going on in the room that seemed to be right in front of them.
The woman was sitting on the armchair with her face in her hands, giving the impression of crying. Jesse appeared at a door on her right and went over to her, placing his hand on her shoulder. When she looked up, they could see she was angry.
“Don’t worry, I’ll speak to Paco today and you’ll be back in a couple of days at the most. The jerk deserved it. He was a good for nothing, no one will miss him!”
“I soiled my hands and risked my badge with that scum! I can’t believe I was so stupid!”
“Forget it, Lala, he’s history. We have better things ahead.” He squeezed her shoulder and gave her a sly smile. “It’s just a matter of time now, we’ll have our day, you can be sure of that!”
“Sure, you’re right! Get going, you’ll be late!”
The woman pushed Jesse away and he went obediently to the front door.
“You relax, ok? Have a good time, that will change your focus, here, listen to your favourite CD’s, that will calm you down.”
Jesse pointed his hand to the CD player and it turned on. He smiled smugly and left.
“Shit! The bastard got powers from Isabel? No way!” Michael was about to say Serena had said he was the one who gave the powers, when he suddenly remembered. “Shit, shit! SHIT! I gave them to him!”
“You should be thankful he tricked you and took you by force. He can only do this silly shit, that’s all, nothing powerful or important. Just turn on and off home appliances and the light. Ok, cars too. Big deal! And he feels almighty! The jerk!” Nicholas rolled his eyes.
They turned back to the scene which had gone on pause, and Nicholas got it going again.
“Bitch!” The woman spat, and they knew she meant Isabel, blaming her for Jesse’s alien tricks.
She got up and chose a CD.
Of course, it was in Spanish. It was a fast catchy rock which neither of them had any problems understanding, and enjoying the words, which obviously were making her feel better. Michael and Nicholas automatically knew the words too and started joining in, just having fun with the teasing lyrics. It was a laugh at marriage in general: if it doesn’t work, you get a divorce, that’s what laws are for, to fix everything, the guy’s loaded, bringing many houses into the deal, some of which are jail, hospital and the nuthouse, then he goes on saying that it shouldn’t be so dull, that colours should be combined, a black guy with a black girl is like a moonless night, a white guy with a white girl is like milk and froth so black guys should marry blondes and the other way round, so the kids will come out colourful like the peacock’s feathers. By the end, they were both laughing, Nicholas slumped over Michael, back to back as Michael bucked to get him off, but the small man clung to him like a limpet, giggling like a maniac.
“Hey, HEY!” Michael elbowed Nicholas upright and he realized Michael wanted to listen.
The mood had changed completely, the woman stood still in the middle of the room, looking blankly at a spot on the wall. The voice was the same, but now the story was sad, a man used by a mean woman, playing with him and treating him like crap, he was only good enough when she needed a real man that made her feel like a woman to then kick him aside.
“Wimp! What does he expect if he can’t even stand up to her! And he calls himself a man!” She said angrily but went on listening till the end, frowning.
She changed the CD and this time it was a very sentimental song, of a man that has to leave to make a future for his wife and family. Something told Michael that the singer was already dead and it made him very sad. He saw a violent car crash; at least death had come to him instantly and he couldn’t help thinking of Alex. He translated it simultaneously in his head:
I’ll leave my land and everything for you, to travel far away with you on my mind.
I’ll live my days thinking of your smiles, the stars will pay me company at night,
You’ll be the beacon lighting my way, I’m leaving but I swear I’ll soon be back.
I’ll find a home for you, where the sun meets the sea, far away,
With my hands and your love, I will manage to find a new meaning, far from here.
As I leave, a flower and a kiss, an ‘I love you’, a caress and a ‘goodbye’,
It’s a light luggage for such a long trip, because sadness is heavy in my heart,
I shall find a place beyond the sea where the sun shines brighter with each day
The stones of the road will show me the way to my destiny,
What we love most, always stays behind.
They saw her sit down as if she knew it was going to get worse, because she was sure what the next song was.
Michael couldn’t help identifying himself with the song about a boy forced to live behind the iron curtain away from his own people, not understanding its true meaning and simply deciding to leave to be free.
He’s almost twenty years old, and he’s so tired of dreaming,
But beyond the border is his home, his city, his world.
The barbed wire is to him just metal, which can never stop his urge to fly.
He took off with his love for his flag, his land, singing a song,
He was so happy that he didn’t hear the voice calling at him,
And then he was just lying on the ground, smiling and silent,
While bright red flowers kept sprouting from his chest.
Free, as the sun at dawn, I’m free like the sea,
Free like the bird which escaped from its prison in a cage and can finally fly,
Free like the wind that gathers my sorrow and grief, I keep searching for the truth and I’ll finally know what freedom really is.
“Life sucks, everywhere there’s the same shit! Songs can make even crap sound nice! What a lie! I need to move on but I can’t do it without Ramirez, and he can be such a prick! I need to relax!”
She went into another room leaving the door open since she was alone. When they heard running water, they closed their eyes.
“Ewww, dude, I’m not watching her take a bath! No way!” Michael buried his face in the cloud.
“Gone! That’s all we need to see!” Nicholas buried his fingers in Michael’s hair and tugged his face off the cloud. “Hey, it’s over! The bitch is gone! I hate to do it, but you must go back, Serena is about to freak out! Promise me you’ll let me in when I need you…promise!”
Michael felt himself falling, no, floating down safely, and he knew Nicholas wouldn’t hurt him again.
“Yes…I promise…” He whispered and felt the solid hospital bed under him again.
It was just the hour’s check up, no medication, just to see everything was ok. They had told her the kid was an important patient, so that meant he was loaded. She had done her private investigation and yes, she had found out two major sources of gossip. One said he was the love child of Charles Dupree jr. who had been raised in the rain forest of South America after his pregnant mother’s plane crashed there and she was never the same mentally. A local had taken care of them and acted as a foster father. He was abusive and not only beat but raped the boy too. He had been rescued by an American couple and brought back home where his sister found him. The other rumour said he had been dumped in the alien capital of Roswell with a drunken abusive and raping foster father who said the aliens had given the boy to him and was found there accidentally by his half sister. Both ended saying he still didn’t take her invitation to live with her, not giving a damn about the money until she practically begged him to join her. Now the girl had raised hell about the kid’s lost watch so he had become twice as important to try to stop him from sueing. He seemed a nice boy, cute, great bod, took everything they had done to him without complaining…still, you never knew. She saw he was awake and went over to touch his face. He had these intense honey coloured eyes, very aware and intelligent in spite of the drugs. She could’ve sworn she saw a glint of electric blue streaks in them a couple of times, but it could’ve been the light. He smiled biting his lower lip and she found it amazingly sexy. Shit, he must be half her age! He was just sleep warm and winced when he tried to snuggle on the bed.
- You must be very uncomfortable…- She observed.
- No, I’m fine, I sleep like this. Just hurts when I move, that’s all. - He smirked, damn sexy again.
She checked the drip, then found the wounds were healing quite nicely. She passed her finger over one in the middle of his butt and watched him shiver as he gasped. She had just skimmed over it, she couldn’t have hurt him.
- Tickles…- He whispered and chuckled, making her laugh.
- Sorry about your watch, I don’t think they’ve found it yet…- She said.
- Oh, that! Laurie insisted on buying it, I’m ok with a Swatch. - He grinned and he looked this time like the kid he was. - She’s bloody pissed. -
- I hope they find it. - She nodded and he just shrugged, obviously not giving a damn about it.
If someone sued, it would be the sister, not him. She brought out a tube from her pocket and squeezed some cool ointment on his thighs. He squirmed and went: “Mmm” so she explained.
- This will help you absorb and ease the pain. - She worked it in very gently and carefully, feeling the muscles under her hands going rock hard.
“Jesus, what does this boy do? Oh yes, the girl said he rides. Wow! It sure as hell works! If I weren’t so scared of horses…and if I had the time!” She scoffed, but was glad to feel him relaxing just a bit. She knew she was good at massages, so she moved her hands up to his back. She started at his shoulders and went as far down as she could until the wounds began. He had many very subtle scars in his back area, which had her wondering how much of what she had heard about him was true. She turned towards the couch, feeling the eyes of the woman and the young man, on her. She had heard him call her “Mom”, and Stuart had told her she was a colleague, so what were they to the boy? It was none of her business! She was surprised when the woman’s question clarified her thoughts.
- How’s my nephew doing? - She asked pleasantly.
- He’ll be fine, the scars will fade though a plastic surgery would take them completely away. - She suggested.
- What for? I’m not a stripper. - He winked at her, jokingly. - Well, just privately…my girlfriend, you know? -
The girlfriend of course! Lucky girl! She’d pay to watch him strip and so would her friends! Watching him naked on a hospital bed wasn’t the same, though she got to do things to him she wouldn’t be able to, as an audience. Bet the girl made him bend over going on all fours so she could play with those chains. Oh yes, she had noticed the piercings! How could she miss them as she took his temperature and gave him the rectal medication? She didn’t understand what they would do to him during sex with his girl, no matter which position she took. She had a few flashes, one after the other, of him on the girl, as she pulled at a chord over the small of his back which disappeared between his buttocks, then the short brunette behind him with a dildo strapped on her, giving it to him as he fucked his girl, kissing her pouty lips, then his girl behind him doing him with the toy as he took the tall blonde that seemed to be close to Dr. Davis, with his face buried between her luscious breasts. And to wrap up the show, all the guys, one after the other, Dr. Davis included, as the boy lay there over a rolled sleeping bag hugging a pillow to his chest and face, writhing in agony and pleasure. The sleeping bag was pulled away and the one who had just fucked him took its place on his back from the side, giving him a blowjob as the next one rammed into his ass. The ones waiting in line were jerking themselves to be ready for him when their turn finally came. By the time they were all through with him, she could see the blood flecked cum seeping out of him down the insides of both his thighs, noticing two bleeding tears in his opening, one towards the back and the other one towards the front on the right side.
- Are you alright, dear? - Serena decided it was about time to get her away from the powerful Michael vibes, knowing clearly what they were doing to her.
She shook her head and closed her mouth, realizing she must have looked like an idiot. She pressed the heels of her hands on her temples, closing her eyes and then let go to shake her head.
- I guess I’m getting a headache. I’ll get some aspirin. - She smiled apologetically wondering if they had bought it.
They seemed to have believed her as they just turned to each other and continued their conversation. She wanted to check him out, sure she had seen the scars where the rips were in her vision, but she hadn’t even brought a thermometer to justify her spreading him and looking. She would have to wait until the next check up, dammit! She could hardly wait to give him the next suppository, now sure she hadn’t imagined the buzz she had felt on her fingertip when she pushed it in. Man, this kid was so hot! She was certain that if she were a guy, she would find the way or pay whatever he wanted to fill his ass.
- Bye now…- She said as casually as she could, heading for the door, uncaring of her almost controlled shaky legs.
- What was that? - Wayne said, quiet aware something alien had happened though not sure exactly what.
- Michael vibes. He can’t help it; he doesn’t even know he does it. - Serena laughed at her naïve “son”, needing to elaborate. - He flashed her one hell of a porno in which he starred with several different partners and combinations that just about blew her mind. -
- Show me! - He blushed the second the words left his mouth and looked down at his hands. - Sorry…-
- Wayne, you’re a grown man! C’mon! You’ll get them from him anytime, but you won’t get them from me. - She laughed and went over to see how Michael was taking it, surprised he hadn’t joined in her laughter.
Michael was fast asleep, looking so peaceful and innocent that she had to lean over and kiss his cheek. She returned to the couch, shaking her head and smiling.
- He’s asleep. - She sighed.
- He’s special. - Wayne nodded.
- You can say that again. - Serena quipped, patting his knee as she sat down.
“Michael…Michael…” He felt he was floating as he lay on a cloud. He could even feel the fluffy composition of the cumulus against his naked front. He felt like the yellow pages, with fingers doing the walking up the inside of his thighs. He squirmed at the tickling and smirked.
“Michael…” The hands now cupped his butt and squeezed.
Michael teasingly shook from side to side, not really wanting to get rid of them, rather encouraging them to continue their explorations.
“I’ll do anything you want when you open your eyes…” The voice was definitely familiar though the friendliness in it didn’t seem to coincide.
A fingertip prodded at his opening and he bucked to get it into him but it was pulled away just in time. Michael moaned, frustrated.
“Open your eyes!” The coaxing had become a demand and Michael obeyed, more out of curiosity than compliance.
“You!” Michael exclaimed as he twisted his upper body, looking behind him to see Nicholas sitting crosslegged between his widespread thighs.
He pushed up on his knees and the cloud wobbled.
“Shit!” He shouted as he lay back down, pressing his cheek on the soft surface, relieved to feel the fragile material under him stabilizing. “What the hell am I doing here? Why are you here with me?”
“You’re dreaming. I didn’t want you to reject me cause then I would just have to go. See? Your questioning me is making me fade. Please don’t send me away!”
“Ok, then answer my questions.” Michael looked around, appreciating the peace and beauty that surrounded them. “Wait, I have nothing to ask you, I know exactly what you are feeling.”
“Then just let me touch you.” Nicholas’ hands slid over his ass and Michael felt he was doing something to him. “You’re so beautiful! Your skin shouldn’t be marred by these horrid scars!”
Nicholas watched them disappear under his fluttering fingers as he moved down taking care of the ones on the back of his thighs.
“Don’t! Let them be. I’ll get in trouble if the disappear just like that. We all will, bring them back!” Michael ordered.
“You should hate them because Khivar did them to you!” Nicholas frowned, obeying. “I need to show you something.”
- Michael! Michael! Wake up! - Serena kept shouting from very far away.
“Don’t let her interrupt us, this is important! She doesn’t understand!” Nicholas urged and Michael believed him, blocking himself out completely, the last thing he felt was her frustration and anger at being cut off from him.
“Alright, you win for now, we’re alone, what do you want?” Michael smirked and Nicholas leant over and kissed him quickly on the lips, before he could move away.
“Hey!” Michael protested, using the back of his hand to wipe his lips.
Nicholas giggled when he saw Michael was grinning, rather amused.
“Beware of Jesse Ramirez and his new partner. She’s as vicious as a trained pitbull and looks just like one. They’re putting up one hell of a show for the feds but they have different plans. And they include you. Isabel will have some news tomorrow during her everyday dreamwalk meeting with Agent Duff. What I’ll show you now will make sense with what Isabel will find out next morning.” He said, watching Michael bite his lip in thought, and started leaning over for another kiss, but this time Michael was faster than him and stopped him, holding him at arms’ length.
“Whoa! Keep still, will you? Why don’t you give me the whole thing?” He asked, narrowing his eyes in suspicion.
“Because the FBI lady will only get a part, so why lose energy if you’re going to get it from her anyway?” Nicholas tried to shake himself free to no avail.
“Ok, give it to me then, but don’t touch me...” Nicholas felt from Michael the same rejection he felt from Khivar, making his eyes go sad, but the next word brought a smile of hope back to his face: “Yet.”
Michael was going through very conflictive emotions. When he felt Nicholas’ sadness at his rejection, comparing it to Khivar’s, he also felt Max’s rejection when they were younger, and it was the same as Khivar’s. He watched Nicholas go to his task eagerly and felt a weight lift from his shoulders. A hole opened in the cloud just in front of his face and he turned to see the small man’s face in full concentration as he sat beside him, still crosslegged. His knee was resting on Michael’s shoulder, but he didn’t move away, feeling the slight weight on the very spot where Grant Sorenson’s bullet had entered his body. The scene in front of their eyes had them focused on what was going on in the room that seemed to be right in front of them.
The woman was sitting on the armchair with her face in her hands, giving the impression of crying. Jesse appeared at a door on her right and went over to her, placing his hand on her shoulder. When she looked up, they could see she was angry.
“Don’t worry, I’ll speak to Paco today and you’ll be back in a couple of days at the most. The jerk deserved it. He was a good for nothing, no one will miss him!”
“I soiled my hands and risked my badge with that scum! I can’t believe I was so stupid!”
“Forget it, Lala, he’s history. We have better things ahead.” He squeezed her shoulder and gave her a sly smile. “It’s just a matter of time now, we’ll have our day, you can be sure of that!”
“Sure, you’re right! Get going, you’ll be late!”
The woman pushed Jesse away and he went obediently to the front door.
“You relax, ok? Have a good time, that will change your focus, here, listen to your favourite CD’s, that will calm you down.”
Jesse pointed his hand to the CD player and it turned on. He smiled smugly and left.
“Shit! The bastard got powers from Isabel? No way!” Michael was about to say Serena had said he was the one who gave the powers, when he suddenly remembered. “Shit, shit! SHIT! I gave them to him!”
“You should be thankful he tricked you and took you by force. He can only do this silly shit, that’s all, nothing powerful or important. Just turn on and off home appliances and the light. Ok, cars too. Big deal! And he feels almighty! The jerk!” Nicholas rolled his eyes.
They turned back to the scene which had gone on pause, and Nicholas got it going again.
“Bitch!” The woman spat, and they knew she meant Isabel, blaming her for Jesse’s alien tricks.
She got up and chose a CD.
Of course, it was in Spanish. It was a fast catchy rock which neither of them had any problems understanding, and enjoying the words, which obviously were making her feel better. Michael and Nicholas automatically knew the words too and started joining in, just having fun with the teasing lyrics. It was a laugh at marriage in general: if it doesn’t work, you get a divorce, that’s what laws are for, to fix everything, the guy’s loaded, bringing many houses into the deal, some of which are jail, hospital and the nuthouse, then he goes on saying that it shouldn’t be so dull, that colours should be combined, a black guy with a black girl is like a moonless night, a white guy with a white girl is like milk and froth so black guys should marry blondes and the other way round, so the kids will come out colourful like the peacock’s feathers. By the end, they were both laughing, Nicholas slumped over Michael, back to back as Michael bucked to get him off, but the small man clung to him like a limpet, giggling like a maniac.
“Hey, HEY!” Michael elbowed Nicholas upright and he realized Michael wanted to listen.
The mood had changed completely, the woman stood still in the middle of the room, looking blankly at a spot on the wall. The voice was the same, but now the story was sad, a man used by a mean woman, playing with him and treating him like crap, he was only good enough when she needed a real man that made her feel like a woman to then kick him aside.
“Wimp! What does he expect if he can’t even stand up to her! And he calls himself a man!” She said angrily but went on listening till the end, frowning.
She changed the CD and this time it was a very sentimental song, of a man that has to leave to make a future for his wife and family. Something told Michael that the singer was already dead and it made him very sad. He saw a violent car crash; at least death had come to him instantly and he couldn’t help thinking of Alex. He translated it simultaneously in his head:
I’ll leave my land and everything for you, to travel far away with you on my mind.
I’ll live my days thinking of your smiles, the stars will pay me company at night,
You’ll be the beacon lighting my way, I’m leaving but I swear I’ll soon be back.
I’ll find a home for you, where the sun meets the sea, far away,
With my hands and your love, I will manage to find a new meaning, far from here.
As I leave, a flower and a kiss, an ‘I love you’, a caress and a ‘goodbye’,
It’s a light luggage for such a long trip, because sadness is heavy in my heart,
I shall find a place beyond the sea where the sun shines brighter with each day
The stones of the road will show me the way to my destiny,
What we love most, always stays behind.
They saw her sit down as if she knew it was going to get worse, because she was sure what the next song was.
Michael couldn’t help identifying himself with the song about a boy forced to live behind the iron curtain away from his own people, not understanding its true meaning and simply deciding to leave to be free.
He’s almost twenty years old, and he’s so tired of dreaming,
But beyond the border is his home, his city, his world.
The barbed wire is to him just metal, which can never stop his urge to fly.
He took off with his love for his flag, his land, singing a song,
He was so happy that he didn’t hear the voice calling at him,
And then he was just lying on the ground, smiling and silent,
While bright red flowers kept sprouting from his chest.
Free, as the sun at dawn, I’m free like the sea,
Free like the bird which escaped from its prison in a cage and can finally fly,
Free like the wind that gathers my sorrow and grief, I keep searching for the truth and I’ll finally know what freedom really is.
“Life sucks, everywhere there’s the same shit! Songs can make even crap sound nice! What a lie! I need to move on but I can’t do it without Ramirez, and he can be such a prick! I need to relax!”
She went into another room leaving the door open since she was alone. When they heard running water, they closed their eyes.
“Ewww, dude, I’m not watching her take a bath! No way!” Michael buried his face in the cloud.
“Gone! That’s all we need to see!” Nicholas buried his fingers in Michael’s hair and tugged his face off the cloud. “Hey, it’s over! The bitch is gone! I hate to do it, but you must go back, Serena is about to freak out! Promise me you’ll let me in when I need you…promise!”
Michael felt himself falling, no, floating down safely, and he knew Nicholas wouldn’t hurt him again.
“Yes…I promise…” He whispered and felt the solid hospital bed under him again.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
A/N The songs mentioned in the previous chapter are in the same order:
"Pavoreal" (Peacock) by Jose Luis Rodriguez called "El Puma".
"Dueño de Nada" (Owner of Nothing) by Jose Luis Rodriguez too.
"Un Beso y una Flor" (A Kiss and a Flower) by Nino Bravo.
"Libre" (Free) by Nino Bravo too, who was killed in a car crash some years ago.
Chapter 65
- Michael! Who did that to you? Who was it? - Serena sounded…scared?
- Hey, it’s ok, it was just a dream, no one did anything to me! - Michael said.
- Michael, all the scars went away and were back a few seconds later! How could that be? - He wasn’t fooling her.
- It was someone from Antar, who just thought I shouldn’t have those scars. I think I willed them away but then I realized we could get in trouble if they just disappeared. - He explained.
- Since when can you heal yourself? - She asked suspiciously.
- I can’t, that’s why it didn’t work and they’re back. It was just an illusion from the dream, that was all! Why are you making such a big thing out of it? - Michael scoffed.
- Who was with you in the dream? - She insisted.
- A friend from Antar, I already told you. This is just between the two of us, can’t I have some privacy? What’s wrong with you? - Michael didn’t like this side of her at all.
- Serena! What is it? Why are you angry at Michael? - It was Laurie who spoke for all the group who were standing by the door, quite surprised by the interaction between their two friends.
- I’m sorry, I’m overreacting, but something very strange just happened and I don’t like the fact that the other person concerned is kept away from me, well, from us. -
Once she informed them, it was Liz who sided with Michael against all the others, defending his privacy, since he hardly had any these days.
“Thanks for trusting me.” She felt coming from him.
- I have my reasons Serena, can’t you trust me like Liz does? - Michael sounded hurt by the alien seer’s reaction.
- You’re absolutely right, I’m sorry Michael, I have no right…- Serena apologized.
- Yes you do, but I want some privacy on this one because I need to be sure about it before I let you into it. It’s rather delicate, please, trust me. - Michael asked her.
Serena felt really bad. She gathered Michael in her arms and covered his face with kisses.
- Ok, ok! - Michael laughed. - Apology accepted. -
- Laurie, you and I are on a mission, remember? - Stuart took her hand and led her out of the room.
They almost ran into the nurse who was coming with her tray and had just rounded the corner. She skipped out of the way and Laurie shivered, hoping they could have Michael back home next day.
Irene could feel the nervous reaction from all of them when she entered the room, but surprisingly, not from Michael, who should be the most concerned, since he would be the one she would be working on. She was dreading the company, especially with the investigation she meant to perform, so she was relieved when they all just stayed where they were and left her alone to do her thing. It was Serena the one who suggested they went for something to eat while Michael was in “good hands”, and Irene wondered why she was giving her this chance after she saw what had happened before. She seemed to sense the woman had known exactly what had been going on and wondered if she was suddenly turning psychic. Ok, the kid was hers.
She couldn’t wait to do what she wanted; she had been fantasizing with it since she got those awesome visions from him which she just attributed from not getting laid in a rather long time: almost a year next month. Her job could sure suck! Still, she kept saving the best for the end. She began with his temperature, which was almost as good as the main feature. Lubing the thermometer, she was tempted to use some directly on him, but managed to stop herself. She shouldn’t push it since she had something even better. She slid it in slowly, watching the involuntary spasm and tightening of the strong muscles in the whole area. While she waited, she checked the drip which was still good for a couple of hours plus. She injected the antibiotic, antipyretic and the hemostatic mix of vitamins, since there were three places where she still found a few drops of blood between the stitches, probably from movement which he couldn’t help, and she had no way of knowing that Max had not interfered with them on purpose, to avoid suspicion. She chose to go a little towards the insides of the thighs for the ims, though the place was more sensitive but at the same time, it was more protected from chafing by the sheets. She watched, felt and heard Michael’s reaction to her ministrations, and treasured the firm velvety skin going tight under her hands, even if she knew it was her, behind the needles, the reason for it. She was ruthless and she knew it. She removed the thermometer as slowly as she had inserted it and read it: 99.7. Not bad, a touch of fever but it was to be expected with the kind of wounds he had sustained. And here she was, she peeled the foil and pressed the tip of the slippery slug into him. She heard his controlled gasp, just like a sudden intake of air, as if he had been waiting for it as eagerly as she had, and when it finally came, he wasn’t let down. She pushed it deeper, until her fingertip was surrounded by the moist flesh, gathering her courage to bury it just deep enough to feel the squeeze of the clenching ring of muscles. What happened next, was the last thing she expected: the boy bucked and her finger buried all the way in. She felt it gripped in a vice, the vibrations travelling up her arm to her brain and bouncing from it to her vagina, which was dripping as she was on the verge of coming. She felt her finger moving on its own and pressing the tip against a hot pulsing bulge towards the front which she unfailingly recognized as the prostate gland. Her fingertip homed on it and rubbed in a circle, first in one direction, then in the other as the boy purred like a kitten. His breath was coming faster, and his hips were moving in an unmistakeable sexual way. She was making him come just as she was getting the same feeling too. It was amazing, she wasn’t even touching herself, but the stimulus she was receiving was exactly the same she was giving the boy. It was as if her clitoris was connected to his prostate. As she started coming, she ground her finger into her target mercilessly and she knew the electricity his grip was giving her, was backfiring into him as well. That’s when she realized her thumb was working feverishly on the chains of the piercings which were surely the ones responsible for his electrical response. The boy went haywire, he shuddered violently and his spasms mirrored hers as she knew that her face was a mask of pleasure and total satisfaction, just like she was seeing his was one of a sublime combination of pain and pleasure. She hadn’t wanted him to hurt, but she had the certainty that it was that precise sensation that had triggered his orgasm, over anyone else. Her breath stabilized in seconds while his was still labored, when she realized she hadn’t removed her finger from him yet. He wasn’t letting her go, and she had to screw it out forcefully, watching him wince as his teeth clamped on his lower lip almost drawing blood. His tightly shut eyes started relaxing along with the rest of his body, and as he released his lip, she heard his breath hiss on the way in. He took a deep breath and sighed. Irene wasn’t over yet. She used her thumbs to spread him, minding the wounds, and she gasped as she saw the two scars were really there, and they were blood red, just a hairline away from actually bleeding. She let go, frightened at the thought that kept nagging at her brain that if she kept looking at them she would really make it happen. She was suddenly covered in cold sweat wondering what she would say to him. She was totally amazed to see he looked fast asleep. It took all her courage to reach out and shake his shoulder whispering his name to have him moan softly and snuggle with a wince and a gasp. He was asleep. She simply couldn’t believe it. She had to be the luckiest person in the world because she was able to gather all her stuff and leave the room, before hearing his friends coming back from supper just as she had rounded the corner back to the nurses’ station. She was asking herself how her luck would hold when she had to face him again. And she made up her mind she would do it on Alpaz, hoping for the best.
As she approached the nurses’ area, her anxiety started escalating, turning into sheer panic when she saw it was full of people. She could swear they could read what she had done to her patient, written in big bright red letters across her face. She walked right into the midst of them, trying to ignore them and pushing the thermometer and the tube of lube into her pocket, she canned the contents of her tray and almost slammed it on top of the others on the cabinet. She noticed they had all turned to look at her, mostly because her usual friendliness was on hold, and she felt her cheeks burning, wishing she could cover her face with her hands or just shut her eyes. She was so close to screaming when one of them asked:
- Irene, dear, are you ok? -
- Headache…I need some aspirin. - She snapped as she rushed to the lockers.
She could see them out of the corner of her eye as they just shrugged, totally understanding and turned back to their own business, letting her be. She fumbled clumsily with her padlock until she managed to open it and popped a pill out of a half full blister. She hurried to the bathroom and washed it down with tap water, then she locked herself in the nearest stall and sat on the toilet with her feet drawn up in front of her, waiting for the Alpaz to kick in.
Stuart and Laurie came back, and when the door was closed, they nodded and sat down, breathing deep.
- I was so nervous, I’m glad I didn’t screw up! - Laurie sighed.
- You did great, you sounded really pissed, not scared. They totally bought it! Alright! Just like I predicted, Michael will have to stay overnight to be discharged tomorrow after the morning rounds. You heard that kid? - Stuart raised his voice to make sure Michael had got it.
- He’s fast asleep. - Serena said with a sly smile, thanful Maria was in the bathroom. - He had one hell of a session with the nurse, who had had her curiosity piqued a couple of hours ago when she was treated to some powerful Michael vibes. She had to medicate him this time, and they just went over the edge. I think Michael should be the one to tell Maria, better still when he’s back home and totally healed so she can punish him as he deserves for being frisky and naughty…- She said lowering her voice just in case, wishing she could punish him too for keeping secrets away from her.
- You took us all away to let that happen? Why, Serena? - Asked Isabel, a little jealous herself.
- There was nothing we could do to stop it, she had to medicate him and she needed to make sure she wasn’t going nuts. Now she knows she wasn’t and probably attributes the whole thing to a sick attraction for Michael because she hasn’t been laid in a long time. I got that straight from her, don’t worry, she didn’t even feel me going into her brain. She had no way of knowing I saw her rounding the corner hurriedly with time enough for me to home on her. She’s so completely embarrassed right now that she doesn’t want to see anyone, much less talk about it. Anyway, Ava can mindwarp her in seconds, right dear? -
- Sure, no sweat. - Ava nodded smiling as Stuart also nodded, agreeing.
Serena wouldn’t admit that was all she had been able to pick from the nurse and she kept telling herself it was just her female intuition, but she could swear there was more to it which she preferred to ignore for her own peace of mind. Stuart turned on the TV and the eight o’clock news came on. There was a knock on the door and thinking it was the nurse, he told her to come in. He could almost see the look in her face, after her experience and wondered how she would face Michael, not knowing he was asleep. The knock came again and Stuart went to the door wondering what was up. Dr. Greene stood there with a group of “rookies” and he asked him if the boy would allow them to be introduced to the kind of injuries he had sustained as they described the treatment he had received. That’s when the two doctors that had stitched and stapled Michael stepped from behind the group, a little uncomfortable because they would have to admit the part that had not worked.
- Olsen and Rafferty here will cover that part. - Greene glared at the two embarrassed doctors, who had made him be the one to ask Stuart for his permission as the boy’s doctor. - Is it possible? -
- Hang on…- Stuart went to Michael and shook him a little but he just moaned and snuggled.
Stuart knew Michael would have no problems with it, so he went outside again and told them it was ok as long as they didn’t ask him any questions because Michael had just been sedated and it was better he stayed that way. He was aware that some patients didn’t allow it but most did, and he also knew the doctors’ sullen reaction to patients who denied them the opportunity to learn from their experience so his decision was definitely for the best. They nodded and followed Stuart to the bed, where he stood possessively by Michael’s face, with his hand on the boy’s shoulder, making sure he wasn’t disturbed more than was necessary. He blinked as he sent Serena and the others to just go on watching the news and he would explain later.
From where he stood, Stuart could tell something in the news had their full attention, and wondered what had happened. He coughed very discreetly, but Max caught it and turned just enough to make eye contact with him. He nodded and Stuart understood that it wasn’t urgent, but held some importance, and they would discuss it when they were left alone again. Some slight contact was made on the healing wounds by the doctors and the “rookies”, making Michael moan and squirm a few times. He could see the startled looks in the young group, both males and females, but they were too well trained to lose their concentration. Stuart had seen most of them unable to hide a flinch and a grimace during the description of the ineffective anesthetics, surely wishing they would never be in those doctors’ shoes. They carried on the hourly check up, that was the drip, the injection sites and when it came to Michael’s temperature, one of the girls was chosen to insert the thermometer and one of the boys, to remove it. When they finished, Stuart escorted them to the door and as they walked away, he noticed the girls chattering together with nervous giggles but the boys preferred to keep whatever they felt to themselves, not to give themselves away or give the wrong impression, whichever the case. Stuart saw the three doctors keep walking head as the younger group turned to the right. He called Serena, Ava and Kyle and signalled to the others to wait.
- Come with me. - He said and followed the wake of the young doctors, explaining as he went. - I don’t think it will be very healthy for us if the girls of the group comment about their weird experience with Michael’s vibes, and if some of them are more than chummy with their male colleagues who have been exposed to it too, it will be all over the place in no time and we won’t be able to leave soon enough without getting the wrong kind of attention. I need you guys to do a group mindwarp to wipe it off their heads. There they are! -
But they were too late, they had already gone into the room they used for relaxing right in front of the lockers and bathroom. Stuart was about to go after them when he saw one of the nurses leaving and decided to wait a little longer to make sure there was no one else. He told the others to wait there for him as he passed by the door, checking in discreetly to see there was someone else behind an open locker. He pretended to be checking the board on the wall for a few minutes not to go back too soon to be suspicious sending to his friends what he was doing and why. When he thought it was safe, he passed back just in time to hear the lock click closed. He joined the others just around the corner and waited until he heard steps fading away. He craned his neck to see a woman with a scarf over her head that could’ve been anyone, so he stepped in and waved the other three over with him.
“Just play along with me.” Stuart sent them.
- Excuse me, please? - Stuart said with a big smile on his face.
- This is my sister-in-law and these two have just started medical school at the University. We want to ask you how you found my patient, without the influence of the other doctors. - Stuart flashed them another smile.
That was the perfect time and Stuart saw the dazed look in their eyes for a couple of seconds as the alien powers kicked in. Then they all spoke out their “valuable” opinions on the case:
- He’s doing quite well for the damage he sustained...-
- He’s healing as fast as is expected in someone his age...-
- The medication is the most appropriate for those wounds...-
- I don’t think he will have any problems if he is discharged, the way he’s going...-
- With you and medical students at home, he’ll be fine...-
- That’s what we thought, thanks, and hey you! - He turned to Kyle and Ava.
- This is where you’ll be in a few years so keep it up! -
Kyle and Ava nodded and smiled at the group as Stuart asked one final question to make sure it had worked, not that he doubted it at all, but there was no harm in double checking.
- So everything is going well, nothing out of the ordinary? - He arched his eyebrows for emphasis.
They turned to look at each other and shrugged, shaking their heads.
- No, everything’s as usual in these cases, nothing to worry about. - Said a girl who spoke for all of them.
- Ok, then, thanks a lot! - Stuart nodded, satisfied and watched them nod back, thankful of having been taken into consideration at a stage where they were used to being mostly criticized and kicked aside when they couldn’t keep up with the pace yet.
They returned to find the rest of them still focused on the news, this time upset and outraged and Isabel strangely quiet. They found out a small drug dealer had been caught by an FBI agent and savagely beaten, ending in his accidental demise when he was kicked in the mouth and swallowed his dentures, choking to death in seconds before anything could be done for him. Jesse Ramirez was standing beside the guilty agent who happened to be his partner and the woman he was currently dating. It seemed he had been capturing the partner of the deceased and arrived too late at the crime scene. He was visibly upset at the way the press was handling it and constantly trying to support her. Stuart hugged Isabel and soon he had her relaxing in his arms.
- It’s ok, don’t worry about things that don’t concern you, it’s not worth it. We were successful in making the youngsters forget all about the Michael vibes...- He stopped just in time not to say he would take care of the nurse too, remembering it was better not to risk a reaction from Maria, so he had another idea for that.
- Hey Kyle, let’s go get some coffee, you look like you need one too. Anyone else? -
No one else seemed to be in need of caffein and neither did Kyle but he went to find out what Stuart wanted him for. Once outside, he told him what it was about.
They were a little bit worried when they found out the nurse had gone home after her shift, which somehow, Stuart hadn’t thought of, so they headed back.
- What will we do about her? - Kyle asked worriedly.
- Don’t worry, people her age in this profession tend to be very discreet, even though we know she has been exposed to Michael twice and the second time rather extensively. She will probably sleep on it and if we’re lucky, she will just think her stressed mind went in overload like Serena said. Anyway, tomorrow, as soon as she arrives, I’ll do some probing to see how we can fix it. No sweat, you’ll see. -
It was an unusual night, Michael kept tossing and muttering in his sleep and Maria was very worried even when Max and Stuart assured her they were just nightmares, which was understandable and she had nothing to worry because Michael was alright and he would be back home tomorrow by noon at the most. Of course they knew he was probably dreaming about his encounter with the nurse but had blocked himself out from everyone to stay out of trouble until he was able to deal with it. And that made their night as restless and uneasy as Michael’s was. Isabel found Agent Suzanne Duff waiting for her and most of them being early risers, woke up to find the alien girl using her powers and getting through to her contact.
By the time she was calm enough to leave the bathroom, Irene met Ellie Nelson at the lockers changing to leave, and remembered her shift was over too. She was relieved and disappointed at the same time. She decided to take a few minutes to tidy up her locker before she left and was able to hear the group of “rookies” who had been at Michael’s talking in the sitting room. The girls kept talking about the weird high they had felt on touching him while the boys kept making fun of them which clearly meant they had been there too but were not about to admit it. Irene was outraged and jealous of their interaction with the boy, as if only she was allowed to touch him. She was actually angry at them.
She shook her head to clear it, surprised at her reaction, and left for home. That evening, she relived her experience with Michael over and over again until she woke up next morning with this unexplainable need to see how he was. She took a quick shower and grabbed a cup of coffee just drinking half the mug in her hurry to get to the hospital. She didn’t know why she felt so anxious and apprehensive, because at the same time, she was sure the boy was alright. When she arrived and heard he would be discharged after the morning rounds she thought they had lost their minds and told them so, quite upset, so they had to explain the reason for it. Still she insisted that the hospital’s responsibility towards its patients had no price, even under the threat of legal issues but the decision had already been made and nothing would change it.
Isabel sat up with a gasp and found them around her, waiting to hear what she had for them. Her eyes were wide with shock as she exclaimed:
- She’s a beast! How can Jesse be with her? Oh my god! -
Serena signaled them to be quiet and let her calm down on her own. Isabel took a deep breath and continued.
- That woman with Jesse is a vicious bitch! I can’t understand how he could have replaced me with someone like that! - Isabel’s eyes filled with tears.
- Izzy, what are you talking about? He hasn’t replaced you! That’s impossible, there’s no one like you. The jerk has just gone down to his own level, that’s all! - They turned surprised to see Michael was asleep but aware and pissed at what Isabel had said, totally disagreeing and sending it mentally to them.
- Michael’s right, Isabel, Jesse has just proved to be quite a different person from the one who used to work for your father, obviously just trying to get close to you, and no one better than him to know, having suffered twice at his hands. - Stuart reminded them.
- And Michael’s reason for keeping Jesse away was because he though I wouldn’t be able to protect him as they can, after all, Max has got his shield and Michael his strength. - Isabel remembered.
- Yes, you said it, that’s really ironic! - Stuart scoffed.
"Pavoreal" (Peacock) by Jose Luis Rodriguez called "El Puma".
"Dueño de Nada" (Owner of Nothing) by Jose Luis Rodriguez too.
"Un Beso y una Flor" (A Kiss and a Flower) by Nino Bravo.
"Libre" (Free) by Nino Bravo too, who was killed in a car crash some years ago.
Chapter 65
- Michael! Who did that to you? Who was it? - Serena sounded…scared?
- Hey, it’s ok, it was just a dream, no one did anything to me! - Michael said.
- Michael, all the scars went away and were back a few seconds later! How could that be? - He wasn’t fooling her.
- It was someone from Antar, who just thought I shouldn’t have those scars. I think I willed them away but then I realized we could get in trouble if they just disappeared. - He explained.
- Since when can you heal yourself? - She asked suspiciously.
- I can’t, that’s why it didn’t work and they’re back. It was just an illusion from the dream, that was all! Why are you making such a big thing out of it? - Michael scoffed.
- Who was with you in the dream? - She insisted.
- A friend from Antar, I already told you. This is just between the two of us, can’t I have some privacy? What’s wrong with you? - Michael didn’t like this side of her at all.
- Serena! What is it? Why are you angry at Michael? - It was Laurie who spoke for all the group who were standing by the door, quite surprised by the interaction between their two friends.
- I’m sorry, I’m overreacting, but something very strange just happened and I don’t like the fact that the other person concerned is kept away from me, well, from us. -
Once she informed them, it was Liz who sided with Michael against all the others, defending his privacy, since he hardly had any these days.
“Thanks for trusting me.” She felt coming from him.
- I have my reasons Serena, can’t you trust me like Liz does? - Michael sounded hurt by the alien seer’s reaction.
- You’re absolutely right, I’m sorry Michael, I have no right…- Serena apologized.
- Yes you do, but I want some privacy on this one because I need to be sure about it before I let you into it. It’s rather delicate, please, trust me. - Michael asked her.
Serena felt really bad. She gathered Michael in her arms and covered his face with kisses.
- Ok, ok! - Michael laughed. - Apology accepted. -
- Laurie, you and I are on a mission, remember? - Stuart took her hand and led her out of the room.
They almost ran into the nurse who was coming with her tray and had just rounded the corner. She skipped out of the way and Laurie shivered, hoping they could have Michael back home next day.
Irene could feel the nervous reaction from all of them when she entered the room, but surprisingly, not from Michael, who should be the most concerned, since he would be the one she would be working on. She was dreading the company, especially with the investigation she meant to perform, so she was relieved when they all just stayed where they were and left her alone to do her thing. It was Serena the one who suggested they went for something to eat while Michael was in “good hands”, and Irene wondered why she was giving her this chance after she saw what had happened before. She seemed to sense the woman had known exactly what had been going on and wondered if she was suddenly turning psychic. Ok, the kid was hers.
She couldn’t wait to do what she wanted; she had been fantasizing with it since she got those awesome visions from him which she just attributed from not getting laid in a rather long time: almost a year next month. Her job could sure suck! Still, she kept saving the best for the end. She began with his temperature, which was almost as good as the main feature. Lubing the thermometer, she was tempted to use some directly on him, but managed to stop herself. She shouldn’t push it since she had something even better. She slid it in slowly, watching the involuntary spasm and tightening of the strong muscles in the whole area. While she waited, she checked the drip which was still good for a couple of hours plus. She injected the antibiotic, antipyretic and the hemostatic mix of vitamins, since there were three places where she still found a few drops of blood between the stitches, probably from movement which he couldn’t help, and she had no way of knowing that Max had not interfered with them on purpose, to avoid suspicion. She chose to go a little towards the insides of the thighs for the ims, though the place was more sensitive but at the same time, it was more protected from chafing by the sheets. She watched, felt and heard Michael’s reaction to her ministrations, and treasured the firm velvety skin going tight under her hands, even if she knew it was her, behind the needles, the reason for it. She was ruthless and she knew it. She removed the thermometer as slowly as she had inserted it and read it: 99.7. Not bad, a touch of fever but it was to be expected with the kind of wounds he had sustained. And here she was, she peeled the foil and pressed the tip of the slippery slug into him. She heard his controlled gasp, just like a sudden intake of air, as if he had been waiting for it as eagerly as she had, and when it finally came, he wasn’t let down. She pushed it deeper, until her fingertip was surrounded by the moist flesh, gathering her courage to bury it just deep enough to feel the squeeze of the clenching ring of muscles. What happened next, was the last thing she expected: the boy bucked and her finger buried all the way in. She felt it gripped in a vice, the vibrations travelling up her arm to her brain and bouncing from it to her vagina, which was dripping as she was on the verge of coming. She felt her finger moving on its own and pressing the tip against a hot pulsing bulge towards the front which she unfailingly recognized as the prostate gland. Her fingertip homed on it and rubbed in a circle, first in one direction, then in the other as the boy purred like a kitten. His breath was coming faster, and his hips were moving in an unmistakeable sexual way. She was making him come just as she was getting the same feeling too. It was amazing, she wasn’t even touching herself, but the stimulus she was receiving was exactly the same she was giving the boy. It was as if her clitoris was connected to his prostate. As she started coming, she ground her finger into her target mercilessly and she knew the electricity his grip was giving her, was backfiring into him as well. That’s when she realized her thumb was working feverishly on the chains of the piercings which were surely the ones responsible for his electrical response. The boy went haywire, he shuddered violently and his spasms mirrored hers as she knew that her face was a mask of pleasure and total satisfaction, just like she was seeing his was one of a sublime combination of pain and pleasure. She hadn’t wanted him to hurt, but she had the certainty that it was that precise sensation that had triggered his orgasm, over anyone else. Her breath stabilized in seconds while his was still labored, when she realized she hadn’t removed her finger from him yet. He wasn’t letting her go, and she had to screw it out forcefully, watching him wince as his teeth clamped on his lower lip almost drawing blood. His tightly shut eyes started relaxing along with the rest of his body, and as he released his lip, she heard his breath hiss on the way in. He took a deep breath and sighed. Irene wasn’t over yet. She used her thumbs to spread him, minding the wounds, and she gasped as she saw the two scars were really there, and they were blood red, just a hairline away from actually bleeding. She let go, frightened at the thought that kept nagging at her brain that if she kept looking at them she would really make it happen. She was suddenly covered in cold sweat wondering what she would say to him. She was totally amazed to see he looked fast asleep. It took all her courage to reach out and shake his shoulder whispering his name to have him moan softly and snuggle with a wince and a gasp. He was asleep. She simply couldn’t believe it. She had to be the luckiest person in the world because she was able to gather all her stuff and leave the room, before hearing his friends coming back from supper just as she had rounded the corner back to the nurses’ station. She was asking herself how her luck would hold when she had to face him again. And she made up her mind she would do it on Alpaz, hoping for the best.
As she approached the nurses’ area, her anxiety started escalating, turning into sheer panic when she saw it was full of people. She could swear they could read what she had done to her patient, written in big bright red letters across her face. She walked right into the midst of them, trying to ignore them and pushing the thermometer and the tube of lube into her pocket, she canned the contents of her tray and almost slammed it on top of the others on the cabinet. She noticed they had all turned to look at her, mostly because her usual friendliness was on hold, and she felt her cheeks burning, wishing she could cover her face with her hands or just shut her eyes. She was so close to screaming when one of them asked:
- Irene, dear, are you ok? -
- Headache…I need some aspirin. - She snapped as she rushed to the lockers.
She could see them out of the corner of her eye as they just shrugged, totally understanding and turned back to their own business, letting her be. She fumbled clumsily with her padlock until she managed to open it and popped a pill out of a half full blister. She hurried to the bathroom and washed it down with tap water, then she locked herself in the nearest stall and sat on the toilet with her feet drawn up in front of her, waiting for the Alpaz to kick in.
Stuart and Laurie came back, and when the door was closed, they nodded and sat down, breathing deep.
- I was so nervous, I’m glad I didn’t screw up! - Laurie sighed.
- You did great, you sounded really pissed, not scared. They totally bought it! Alright! Just like I predicted, Michael will have to stay overnight to be discharged tomorrow after the morning rounds. You heard that kid? - Stuart raised his voice to make sure Michael had got it.
- He’s fast asleep. - Serena said with a sly smile, thanful Maria was in the bathroom. - He had one hell of a session with the nurse, who had had her curiosity piqued a couple of hours ago when she was treated to some powerful Michael vibes. She had to medicate him this time, and they just went over the edge. I think Michael should be the one to tell Maria, better still when he’s back home and totally healed so she can punish him as he deserves for being frisky and naughty…- She said lowering her voice just in case, wishing she could punish him too for keeping secrets away from her.
- You took us all away to let that happen? Why, Serena? - Asked Isabel, a little jealous herself.
- There was nothing we could do to stop it, she had to medicate him and she needed to make sure she wasn’t going nuts. Now she knows she wasn’t and probably attributes the whole thing to a sick attraction for Michael because she hasn’t been laid in a long time. I got that straight from her, don’t worry, she didn’t even feel me going into her brain. She had no way of knowing I saw her rounding the corner hurriedly with time enough for me to home on her. She’s so completely embarrassed right now that she doesn’t want to see anyone, much less talk about it. Anyway, Ava can mindwarp her in seconds, right dear? -
- Sure, no sweat. - Ava nodded smiling as Stuart also nodded, agreeing.
Serena wouldn’t admit that was all she had been able to pick from the nurse and she kept telling herself it was just her female intuition, but she could swear there was more to it which she preferred to ignore for her own peace of mind. Stuart turned on the TV and the eight o’clock news came on. There was a knock on the door and thinking it was the nurse, he told her to come in. He could almost see the look in her face, after her experience and wondered how she would face Michael, not knowing he was asleep. The knock came again and Stuart went to the door wondering what was up. Dr. Greene stood there with a group of “rookies” and he asked him if the boy would allow them to be introduced to the kind of injuries he had sustained as they described the treatment he had received. That’s when the two doctors that had stitched and stapled Michael stepped from behind the group, a little uncomfortable because they would have to admit the part that had not worked.
- Olsen and Rafferty here will cover that part. - Greene glared at the two embarrassed doctors, who had made him be the one to ask Stuart for his permission as the boy’s doctor. - Is it possible? -
- Hang on…- Stuart went to Michael and shook him a little but he just moaned and snuggled.
Stuart knew Michael would have no problems with it, so he went outside again and told them it was ok as long as they didn’t ask him any questions because Michael had just been sedated and it was better he stayed that way. He was aware that some patients didn’t allow it but most did, and he also knew the doctors’ sullen reaction to patients who denied them the opportunity to learn from their experience so his decision was definitely for the best. They nodded and followed Stuart to the bed, where he stood possessively by Michael’s face, with his hand on the boy’s shoulder, making sure he wasn’t disturbed more than was necessary. He blinked as he sent Serena and the others to just go on watching the news and he would explain later.
From where he stood, Stuart could tell something in the news had their full attention, and wondered what had happened. He coughed very discreetly, but Max caught it and turned just enough to make eye contact with him. He nodded and Stuart understood that it wasn’t urgent, but held some importance, and they would discuss it when they were left alone again. Some slight contact was made on the healing wounds by the doctors and the “rookies”, making Michael moan and squirm a few times. He could see the startled looks in the young group, both males and females, but they were too well trained to lose their concentration. Stuart had seen most of them unable to hide a flinch and a grimace during the description of the ineffective anesthetics, surely wishing they would never be in those doctors’ shoes. They carried on the hourly check up, that was the drip, the injection sites and when it came to Michael’s temperature, one of the girls was chosen to insert the thermometer and one of the boys, to remove it. When they finished, Stuart escorted them to the door and as they walked away, he noticed the girls chattering together with nervous giggles but the boys preferred to keep whatever they felt to themselves, not to give themselves away or give the wrong impression, whichever the case. Stuart saw the three doctors keep walking head as the younger group turned to the right. He called Serena, Ava and Kyle and signalled to the others to wait.
- Come with me. - He said and followed the wake of the young doctors, explaining as he went. - I don’t think it will be very healthy for us if the girls of the group comment about their weird experience with Michael’s vibes, and if some of them are more than chummy with their male colleagues who have been exposed to it too, it will be all over the place in no time and we won’t be able to leave soon enough without getting the wrong kind of attention. I need you guys to do a group mindwarp to wipe it off their heads. There they are! -
But they were too late, they had already gone into the room they used for relaxing right in front of the lockers and bathroom. Stuart was about to go after them when he saw one of the nurses leaving and decided to wait a little longer to make sure there was no one else. He told the others to wait there for him as he passed by the door, checking in discreetly to see there was someone else behind an open locker. He pretended to be checking the board on the wall for a few minutes not to go back too soon to be suspicious sending to his friends what he was doing and why. When he thought it was safe, he passed back just in time to hear the lock click closed. He joined the others just around the corner and waited until he heard steps fading away. He craned his neck to see a woman with a scarf over her head that could’ve been anyone, so he stepped in and waved the other three over with him.
“Just play along with me.” Stuart sent them.
- Excuse me, please? - Stuart said with a big smile on his face.
- This is my sister-in-law and these two have just started medical school at the University. We want to ask you how you found my patient, without the influence of the other doctors. - Stuart flashed them another smile.
That was the perfect time and Stuart saw the dazed look in their eyes for a couple of seconds as the alien powers kicked in. Then they all spoke out their “valuable” opinions on the case:
- He’s doing quite well for the damage he sustained...-
- He’s healing as fast as is expected in someone his age...-
- The medication is the most appropriate for those wounds...-
- I don’t think he will have any problems if he is discharged, the way he’s going...-
- With you and medical students at home, he’ll be fine...-
- That’s what we thought, thanks, and hey you! - He turned to Kyle and Ava.
- This is where you’ll be in a few years so keep it up! -
Kyle and Ava nodded and smiled at the group as Stuart asked one final question to make sure it had worked, not that he doubted it at all, but there was no harm in double checking.
- So everything is going well, nothing out of the ordinary? - He arched his eyebrows for emphasis.
They turned to look at each other and shrugged, shaking their heads.
- No, everything’s as usual in these cases, nothing to worry about. - Said a girl who spoke for all of them.
- Ok, then, thanks a lot! - Stuart nodded, satisfied and watched them nod back, thankful of having been taken into consideration at a stage where they were used to being mostly criticized and kicked aside when they couldn’t keep up with the pace yet.
They returned to find the rest of them still focused on the news, this time upset and outraged and Isabel strangely quiet. They found out a small drug dealer had been caught by an FBI agent and savagely beaten, ending in his accidental demise when he was kicked in the mouth and swallowed his dentures, choking to death in seconds before anything could be done for him. Jesse Ramirez was standing beside the guilty agent who happened to be his partner and the woman he was currently dating. It seemed he had been capturing the partner of the deceased and arrived too late at the crime scene. He was visibly upset at the way the press was handling it and constantly trying to support her. Stuart hugged Isabel and soon he had her relaxing in his arms.
- It’s ok, don’t worry about things that don’t concern you, it’s not worth it. We were successful in making the youngsters forget all about the Michael vibes...- He stopped just in time not to say he would take care of the nurse too, remembering it was better not to risk a reaction from Maria, so he had another idea for that.
- Hey Kyle, let’s go get some coffee, you look like you need one too. Anyone else? -
No one else seemed to be in need of caffein and neither did Kyle but he went to find out what Stuart wanted him for. Once outside, he told him what it was about.
They were a little bit worried when they found out the nurse had gone home after her shift, which somehow, Stuart hadn’t thought of, so they headed back.
- What will we do about her? - Kyle asked worriedly.
- Don’t worry, people her age in this profession tend to be very discreet, even though we know she has been exposed to Michael twice and the second time rather extensively. She will probably sleep on it and if we’re lucky, she will just think her stressed mind went in overload like Serena said. Anyway, tomorrow, as soon as she arrives, I’ll do some probing to see how we can fix it. No sweat, you’ll see. -
It was an unusual night, Michael kept tossing and muttering in his sleep and Maria was very worried even when Max and Stuart assured her they were just nightmares, which was understandable and she had nothing to worry because Michael was alright and he would be back home tomorrow by noon at the most. Of course they knew he was probably dreaming about his encounter with the nurse but had blocked himself out from everyone to stay out of trouble until he was able to deal with it. And that made their night as restless and uneasy as Michael’s was. Isabel found Agent Suzanne Duff waiting for her and most of them being early risers, woke up to find the alien girl using her powers and getting through to her contact.
By the time she was calm enough to leave the bathroom, Irene met Ellie Nelson at the lockers changing to leave, and remembered her shift was over too. She was relieved and disappointed at the same time. She decided to take a few minutes to tidy up her locker before she left and was able to hear the group of “rookies” who had been at Michael’s talking in the sitting room. The girls kept talking about the weird high they had felt on touching him while the boys kept making fun of them which clearly meant they had been there too but were not about to admit it. Irene was outraged and jealous of their interaction with the boy, as if only she was allowed to touch him. She was actually angry at them.
She shook her head to clear it, surprised at her reaction, and left for home. That evening, she relived her experience with Michael over and over again until she woke up next morning with this unexplainable need to see how he was. She took a quick shower and grabbed a cup of coffee just drinking half the mug in her hurry to get to the hospital. She didn’t know why she felt so anxious and apprehensive, because at the same time, she was sure the boy was alright. When she arrived and heard he would be discharged after the morning rounds she thought they had lost their minds and told them so, quite upset, so they had to explain the reason for it. Still she insisted that the hospital’s responsibility towards its patients had no price, even under the threat of legal issues but the decision had already been made and nothing would change it.
Isabel sat up with a gasp and found them around her, waiting to hear what she had for them. Her eyes were wide with shock as she exclaimed:
- She’s a beast! How can Jesse be with her? Oh my god! -
Serena signaled them to be quiet and let her calm down on her own. Isabel took a deep breath and continued.
- That woman with Jesse is a vicious bitch! I can’t understand how he could have replaced me with someone like that! - Isabel’s eyes filled with tears.
- Izzy, what are you talking about? He hasn’t replaced you! That’s impossible, there’s no one like you. The jerk has just gone down to his own level, that’s all! - They turned surprised to see Michael was asleep but aware and pissed at what Isabel had said, totally disagreeing and sending it mentally to them.
- Michael’s right, Isabel, Jesse has just proved to be quite a different person from the one who used to work for your father, obviously just trying to get close to you, and no one better than him to know, having suffered twice at his hands. - Stuart reminded them.
- And Michael’s reason for keeping Jesse away was because he though I wouldn’t be able to protect him as they can, after all, Max has got his shield and Michael his strength. - Isabel remembered.
- Yes, you said it, that’s really ironic! - Stuart scoffed.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 66
The session was interrupted by the doctors who were going to evaluate and confirm that Michael was on his way to healing without complications so they could be sure there weren’t making a huge mistake by discharging him. They had gone for an early start to have all the paperwork ready in time for the discharge at noon at the latest, glad to have been able to work a way out of a lawsuit. Irene came with them, nervous at what the boy’s reaction to her would be, but at the same time glad she wasn’t facing him alone. Michael was asleep when they arrived and stayed just half awake during the examination. She was able to go through the whole thing touching him the least possible, though she wanted to touch him all she could. Since now she knew what to expect, she was ready for it and able not to show any signs of what was going on, just like Michael was doing not to have the doctors confuse his reactions for the kind of pain that would make them keep him there longer. So he gritted his teeth to stop most of the jerks and gasps, unable to help just a few which were expected anyway. When it was over, the doctors told Stuart, just as he knew they would thanks to the watch hoax, that it was alright for him to take Michael home. Irene sighed, part in relief and part in disappointment once again, at Michael going away. The doctors left as Irene got her tray back together and started slowly, almost reluctantly, leaving the room too. This time only Ava left after her as Liz pulled Maria to the bathroom so she wouldn’t suspect what Ava was about to do, following Stuart’s request. The alien girl was right back giving them a thumbs up long before Liz and Maria came out of the bathroom. Ava told them she had stopped the nurse to thank her for all she had done for her brother and did her thing right away. The woman had smiled back, with her usual friendliness and went her way with a smile. So they were safe there too.
Once alone again, they all turned to Isabel, waiting for whatever news she had for them. The bathroom door opened and the smiles told Liz everything had gone well with the alien girl’s task. To Maria, the smiles just said everyone was glad Michael would leave the hospital that very day. Isabel was taking her time going over through the whole thing in her head to make sure she had it all right without missing anything important and then she sighed.
- Alright, Suzanne says Jessie and his bitch…oh my god! I’m beginning to sound like Lonnie! Well, she’s sure Jessie and his partner are up to something but they’re too cunning to give away even the smallest hint. Come here, it’s faster this way. -
They made the circle connection around the bed to include Michael and were soon hearing Agent Duff’s voice just as Isabel had.
“They’re always whispering and everyone thinks they’re into this lovey-dovey chummy thing, but they’re not fooling me. Their smiles look totally faked to me, and the way she looks at Jesse when he’s not aware of it, is not that kind of loving look. To me it says plainly “I’d rather do this by myself but I know I can’t do it alone, because the kid would just rip my head off my shoulders before I knew what happened, and I just hate to need this jerk to get what I want.” Everyone here knows what she wants because before they got together, she made it clear that she wanted to capture an alien to prove that she could do what they couldn’t, because she would personally make sure he didn’t get away like the other ones had. I was obvious to everyone that she had singled Jesse out because he knew who they were dealing with, and he wouldn’t let it happen again. And Jesse…he doesn’t look so kindly on her either, his look seems to say he’s playing along to get his prey, needing someone as determined as him but that the aliens don’t know and won’t suspect, but this time he’ll make Michael pay for good, and he doesn’t really need anyone else for that once he has him again. I don’t need to be alien or psychic to guess what they’re thinking; I’ve dealt with too many criminals to know exactly what’s going on in their minds. I’ve always been the best at that, don’t ask me how or why, I just know. Well, perhaps I’m kind of psychic like my grandmother was, before she got the Alzheimer’s. Maybe I got it from her, who knows? You must be very careful or this will not end well. Unfortunately, there isn’t much more I can do without the risk of getting exposed. All the agents have now been introduced to the latest in bugs so I can’t use that anymore, just my intuition which hasn’t failed me so far. You must stay away from those two, and for once, I hope I’m wrong.” Then she asked me to let go of her because she would be late and that would get her in trouble. Any ideas on how we stay away from them? - Isabel frowned.
- I’m afraid the only way is to be constantly alert to any signs of them and to be on the defensive at the smallest hint. We have to be extra careful, that’s all. - Max said, visibly shuddering at the thought of the woman.
They left immediately for their classes, thankfully still on time, in spite of Maria’s endless kisses to which Michael responded automatically, still more asleep than awake. Serena and Wayne moved to Michael’s sides, one on each, and watched the boy sleep.
Michael started feeling playful fingers poking ticklishly at his ribs and he squirmed, chuckling and uselessly trying to get away. Then the fingers continued their teasing down his sides, over his hips to his thighs, then cutting across towards the inside. Travelling upwards, they grew painful as they reached the sites of the injections making Michael moan and wince.
“Sorry…”
The familiar voice made Michael jerk and block himself out immediately.
“Shit, Nicholas, Serena is already pissed, do you want to give yourself away
after all my efforts…ungh! Hey, that hurts! They’ve been sticking me with needles there and that side hurts worse, cause they caught me sleeping and I jerked. So go easy!” Michael protested.
“You poor baby! I’ll make it better…” Michael felt some movement down there and Nicholas’ moist lips on his sore skin.
It still hurt but Michael had to admit it did feel better.
“What did you do? It kind of worked, some at least. You’re not a healer.” Michael wondered.
“Neither are you, but you could also make Riverdog’s ankle better getting rid of the fluids that were in the wrong place causing the discomfort. Child’s play, that’s what I’ve done.” Nicholas answered smugly.
“Yeah, right, thanks. What do you want?” Michael asked a little gruffly.
“Hey kid, I just eased your pain and this is what I get? ‘Whaddya want?’” Nicholas said, frowning.
“Sorry, ok? But...” Michael tried to put it nicely.
“What am I doing here, huh? That’s your question. Guess it would be mine too, if I were in your place. I have important news. It won’t be long now, for you to make your stand. I’ve heard a large number of Khivar’s army is ready to desert. One from that group has been sent ahead and will meet your father to inform him of their plans. Soon after, another group will follow, and that will be the turning point, making your army what your father’s waiting for: two to one. Then it’s your call. You need to be ready…”
“I am ready. Do you think a couple of stupid cuts are going to stop me?” Michael smirked.
“No, they won’t, but they could mean the difference between life and death, and eventually defeat. This evening, as soon as ‘Max and the Gang’ return from their current pastime, they will get you back in shape, but it will still take about a human week for the pain to go away completely. You know it, you’ve been there too many times so far, so you know you won’t be in your top shape until then.”
“Wrong, I’m used to pain, I start hurting seconds after a battle begins which is as soon as they start trying to kill me. So it will hardly make any difference if I’m already hurting when I get there. Why the sudden interest?” Michael inquired.
“I’ve already told you, I’m sick of Khivar and his attitude. Lately, I’ve come to realize how unimportant I am in this whole thing. Khivar wouldn’t hesitate to use me as a shield if it came to saving himself. That’s what ‘family’ means to him. Just someone he can use when he needs him or her for that matter, he doesn’t give a damn, that’s about it. You know all I’ve done for him; I’ve even tortured you and killed you, then tortured you again and tried to kill you. Now I’m glad that last time didn’t work for both our sakes. I’m past caring now, you know? What could I possibly expect from anyone, if my own family, my cousin, has used me the way he has? All I really want is to see he gets what he deserves, so then I can just crawl into any hole where I may fit and wait for the outcome, to see if it’s worth it going on.” Nicholas said bitterly.
“Hey, I’m not like that. If you prove yourself trustworthy, you will be treated fairly. Now please, I really need to sleep, ok? You can stay if you want, just make sure nobody else finds out you’re with me.” Michael closed his eyes hoping Nicholas wouldn’t feel offended and was glad to feel his smaller hand give his much larger one a squeeze. Michael smirked and relaxed, finding it hard to believe he was feeling safe with Nicholas beside him, but he also knew his Royal blood wouldn’t fool him.
Serena was intrigued by the way Michael jerked and squirmed, as if he was being prodded, but his reaction was more like he was being tickled which brought some pain from his trying to get away, in the end. She got a fading whisper and Michael blocked her out. Identification was impossible because the word hadn’t actually been spoken but it definitely had sounded like an apology. For a while, Michael didn’t seem to be in a strained situation, or upset, so when he smirked and relaxed, Serena had to admit whatever had happened, was all right.
Half an hour later, the nurse came to give him his full medication, but unlike the other times, Michael had blocked himself out completely, so nothing out of the ordinary happened and she left with her usual smile. She kept coming for the checkups on schedule until the last one at 11:30 am when she came to get him ready to go. She stopped the drip and injected him what must have been a stimulant before she removed the needle, because in seconds, Michael was stirring and stretching until he froze wincing, when his healing wounds told him he had gone far enough. He opened his eyes moaning, and was met by the nurse’s, Serena’s and Wayne’s, all full of compassion.
- There, there, honey, you have to be careful not to tear yourself open again. You’re healing quite nicely, so just go easy on yourself, ok? - Irene smiled and rubbed his back. - Let me give you a last massage before you leave, ok? I guess your friends will be able to do the same too for you at least twice a day. Be sure to remind them. -
Irene expertly eased his sore muscles starting right above the small of his back where the wounds began all the way up to his shoulders, and enjoyed the feeling of the strong young flesh under her hands. She couldn’t help thinking how lucky his girlfriend was, as well as the other ones who could also be in touching closeness with him. She was surprised at this hint of a déjà vu, sure she had been there before and wondering why she couldn’t remember it. She shrugged as she finished and turned to the small closet by the bathroom to get his clothes. Serena jumped to her feet and beat her to it, knowing Michael’s jeans had been in threads and had probably been thrown away. No one had thought of bringing a replacement, having better ways, so she put them into use.
- I’ll get them for you; you get him out of that thing. - Serena smiled and opened the door, using it to shield herself from the nurse’s sight.
Once she saw her turn towards Michael, Serena quickly materialized a pair of soft cotton sweat pants and brought out the hanger nodding to Wayne to get the boots and socks. Irene pointed towards the bathroom and the clothes ended on the hook behind the door and the floor.
They watched Irene expertly get Michael out of the hospital gown using the same technique the orderlies had used to get it on, and then asked for their help, as she was a rather small person, to very gently ease him sideways until he was jackknifed over the left edge of the bed. Then they helped him straighten up with Wayne pushing him up off the narrow bed from across it. Michael couldn’t believe he was upright again. He sighed with a slight wince, and wobbled a little, obviously dizzy as both Serena and Irene held on to him on each side to keep him steady. Wayne rushed over, standing behind him and held him by the hips, careful of his wounds. Michael took a deep breath ending in another sigh and nodded.
- I’m ok now. - He assured them, but didn’t move or try to push them away.
Serena felt he was still blocked out, smartly not trusting or risking what he might send to the nurse again.
- Are you sure? - Serena asked, not feeling him as when they were connected.
Michael nodded with one of his typical smirks and the nurse took it for granted.
Then very slowly, they maneuvered him to the shower stall and Irene turned on the water before getting him in.
- Just take the cold away, I can’t stand hot water. - Michael asked.
- Of course, you couldn’t take that with those wounds, I’ll get it barely warm, just what you need. - Irene used her hand to make sure the water was just right.
Irene rolled up her sleeves and used one of the two towels on the rack to wrap it around her whites to protect them the best she could, helping Michael under the spray.
They watched admiringly as Michael’s firm body got completely wet. The boy turned his face up into the jet, then shook the water off his hair and turned to them startled when he heard them cry out. He had done it so mechanically that he hadn’t realized he could get them wet. They had jumped safely back, with just a few drops on their clothes but giving him a forgiving look that made him grin.
Irene reached in and turned the water off, taking the bar of soap as she pushed Michael around with his back to them. As Michael smelt Ivory, he knew that though she couldn’t get anything from him, he sure could and appreciated her choice.
She soaped his whole back area, wounds included and reached around him to do his front. She squatted to do his legs and then changed to a small bottle reaching up to shampoo his hair.
- It’s ok, it’s the baby kind, I thought you would rather have that. - She smiled.
- Yeah, thanks. - Of course he knew that too.
As Michael enjoyed the touch of her fingers lathering his hair, he remembered that other shower at the Roswell hospital in Isabel and Maria’s hands and wondered what it would have been like if Susan had been the one in charge. He was brought back from his thoughts as Irene told him to close his eyes, and moved to his face. She turned the water back on and they watched again entranced as the spray rinsed the tall boy’s body and hair. When the spray was off once more, Michael warned them and shook his hair again. Irene took the other towel and received Michael in her arms as he backed into them. Finding her small size helpful, she just glued herself against his damaged area drying it with the contact, as she rubbed and dubbed the rest of him dry. She backed off and gently peeled the damp towel from his wounds, eliciting a hiss from him, as she knelt to see them close by. She pulled the towel off of her and used the part that had been away from her to make sure the stitches and staples were dry enough.
- Believe it or not, when water dries, it makes the scabs fall off faster, as long as they are not picked, you hear that? - She peeked around at Michael’s face, making it sound like a threat. - Because they’re going to get real itchy if they aren’t already. -
- I know, I’ve been hurt before. - Michael scoffed.
- I’m so sorry, of course you have! - Irene used both her hands to trace the scars on Michael’s back, with a sad look on her face. - Alright, let’s do something about your hair. -
She climbed on the toilet and began towel drying it vigorously, then combing it with her fingers, humming to herself and smiling as she would with a child.
- You’ve got beautiful hair, you know? It’s so soft and abundant, I envy you and I’m sure I’m not the only one. - She giggled. - I’ll give baby shampoo a try, you bet I will! Fine, let’s get you dressed. -
They proceeded back to the room and now Michael was moving quite freely, the bath having done miracles. He felt refreshed and much stronger than when he went in. Serena and Irene were at his sides as Wayne followed them with Michael’s clothes, having decided it would be easier to dress him up here instead of at the constricted small bathroom that barely had held the four of them, as she had thought possible originally. She had expected Serena and Wayne to stay waiting outside, but she didn’t have the heart to kick them out, seeing how they cared for the boy. She placed him in front of the bed, facing it, and switched places with Wayne, kneeling on the floor, now behind Michael.
- Ok, let’s begin with the hardest. - She took the sweat pants and raised Michael’s lower leg backwards just off the ground.
She started the pants over it and did the same on the other side. Then she pulled them up his thighs until she reached the sore area of the injections. From then on, she was very gentle and extra careful every time she felt him stiffen with pain. Once the garment was in place, Michael knew Serena had been totally right on choosing a snug one, as a loose or baggy one would have rubbed on the wounds with each movement, while these ones moved along with him. Wayne tried to get the t-shirt over Michael’s head but he wasn’t tall enough, so Irene kicked off her shoes and stood on the bed, taking the task in her hands, just like she had done, perched on the toilet, with Michael’s hair. Serena pulled it down making sure it reached just under the waist of the sweats so it wouldn’t rub where it shouldn’t either. The socks and boots were accomplished in the same way as the pants and by then, Michael managed a few steps that took him to the couch and he slowly lay down on it, feeling his strength slowly coming back. Serena excused herself and went to the bathroom as she could feel most of the gang fighting to get through to her to find out what was going on, as it was the time for Michael’s presumed discharge. Once inside, Serena sent to them that Michael was ready to leave and they were just waiting for Stuart to come and get him. She preferred to skip the bath thing because blocking out just Maria would be too obvious. She told them to cool off and she would let them know the second they were out of there. Serena came out and asked Irene what was delaying the discharge, so she said she would go and see, because they had insisted on her coming to have the patient ready to leave asap.
- Is something wrong? Don’t tell me I have to stay here any longer! - Michael moaned.
- No honey, I don’t sense anything wrong. The nurse has gone to see why they’re delaying, that’s all. - Serena soothed him.
- Irene. - Michael whispered.
- What? - Serena didn’t get it.
- Irene, the nurse is called Irene. - Michael explained.
- Oh…- Serena scoffed, of course he knew her name which would now become Maria’s new pet peeve when she eventually found out about it.
They were relieved to hear footsteps coming over and stopping in front of the room to open the door.
- Sorry, kid, but the paperwork took a little longer. Ok, let’s get you out of here! - Stuart said with a big smile.
The session was interrupted by the doctors who were going to evaluate and confirm that Michael was on his way to healing without complications so they could be sure there weren’t making a huge mistake by discharging him. They had gone for an early start to have all the paperwork ready in time for the discharge at noon at the latest, glad to have been able to work a way out of a lawsuit. Irene came with them, nervous at what the boy’s reaction to her would be, but at the same time glad she wasn’t facing him alone. Michael was asleep when they arrived and stayed just half awake during the examination. She was able to go through the whole thing touching him the least possible, though she wanted to touch him all she could. Since now she knew what to expect, she was ready for it and able not to show any signs of what was going on, just like Michael was doing not to have the doctors confuse his reactions for the kind of pain that would make them keep him there longer. So he gritted his teeth to stop most of the jerks and gasps, unable to help just a few which were expected anyway. When it was over, the doctors told Stuart, just as he knew they would thanks to the watch hoax, that it was alright for him to take Michael home. Irene sighed, part in relief and part in disappointment once again, at Michael going away. The doctors left as Irene got her tray back together and started slowly, almost reluctantly, leaving the room too. This time only Ava left after her as Liz pulled Maria to the bathroom so she wouldn’t suspect what Ava was about to do, following Stuart’s request. The alien girl was right back giving them a thumbs up long before Liz and Maria came out of the bathroom. Ava told them she had stopped the nurse to thank her for all she had done for her brother and did her thing right away. The woman had smiled back, with her usual friendliness and went her way with a smile. So they were safe there too.
Once alone again, they all turned to Isabel, waiting for whatever news she had for them. The bathroom door opened and the smiles told Liz everything had gone well with the alien girl’s task. To Maria, the smiles just said everyone was glad Michael would leave the hospital that very day. Isabel was taking her time going over through the whole thing in her head to make sure she had it all right without missing anything important and then she sighed.
- Alright, Suzanne says Jessie and his bitch…oh my god! I’m beginning to sound like Lonnie! Well, she’s sure Jessie and his partner are up to something but they’re too cunning to give away even the smallest hint. Come here, it’s faster this way. -
They made the circle connection around the bed to include Michael and were soon hearing Agent Duff’s voice just as Isabel had.
“They’re always whispering and everyone thinks they’re into this lovey-dovey chummy thing, but they’re not fooling me. Their smiles look totally faked to me, and the way she looks at Jesse when he’s not aware of it, is not that kind of loving look. To me it says plainly “I’d rather do this by myself but I know I can’t do it alone, because the kid would just rip my head off my shoulders before I knew what happened, and I just hate to need this jerk to get what I want.” Everyone here knows what she wants because before they got together, she made it clear that she wanted to capture an alien to prove that she could do what they couldn’t, because she would personally make sure he didn’t get away like the other ones had. I was obvious to everyone that she had singled Jesse out because he knew who they were dealing with, and he wouldn’t let it happen again. And Jesse…he doesn’t look so kindly on her either, his look seems to say he’s playing along to get his prey, needing someone as determined as him but that the aliens don’t know and won’t suspect, but this time he’ll make Michael pay for good, and he doesn’t really need anyone else for that once he has him again. I don’t need to be alien or psychic to guess what they’re thinking; I’ve dealt with too many criminals to know exactly what’s going on in their minds. I’ve always been the best at that, don’t ask me how or why, I just know. Well, perhaps I’m kind of psychic like my grandmother was, before she got the Alzheimer’s. Maybe I got it from her, who knows? You must be very careful or this will not end well. Unfortunately, there isn’t much more I can do without the risk of getting exposed. All the agents have now been introduced to the latest in bugs so I can’t use that anymore, just my intuition which hasn’t failed me so far. You must stay away from those two, and for once, I hope I’m wrong.” Then she asked me to let go of her because she would be late and that would get her in trouble. Any ideas on how we stay away from them? - Isabel frowned.
- I’m afraid the only way is to be constantly alert to any signs of them and to be on the defensive at the smallest hint. We have to be extra careful, that’s all. - Max said, visibly shuddering at the thought of the woman.
They left immediately for their classes, thankfully still on time, in spite of Maria’s endless kisses to which Michael responded automatically, still more asleep than awake. Serena and Wayne moved to Michael’s sides, one on each, and watched the boy sleep.
Michael started feeling playful fingers poking ticklishly at his ribs and he squirmed, chuckling and uselessly trying to get away. Then the fingers continued their teasing down his sides, over his hips to his thighs, then cutting across towards the inside. Travelling upwards, they grew painful as they reached the sites of the injections making Michael moan and wince.
“Sorry…”
The familiar voice made Michael jerk and block himself out immediately.
“Shit, Nicholas, Serena is already pissed, do you want to give yourself away
after all my efforts…ungh! Hey, that hurts! They’ve been sticking me with needles there and that side hurts worse, cause they caught me sleeping and I jerked. So go easy!” Michael protested.
“You poor baby! I’ll make it better…” Michael felt some movement down there and Nicholas’ moist lips on his sore skin.
It still hurt but Michael had to admit it did feel better.
“What did you do? It kind of worked, some at least. You’re not a healer.” Michael wondered.
“Neither are you, but you could also make Riverdog’s ankle better getting rid of the fluids that were in the wrong place causing the discomfort. Child’s play, that’s what I’ve done.” Nicholas answered smugly.
“Yeah, right, thanks. What do you want?” Michael asked a little gruffly.
“Hey kid, I just eased your pain and this is what I get? ‘Whaddya want?’” Nicholas said, frowning.
“Sorry, ok? But...” Michael tried to put it nicely.
“What am I doing here, huh? That’s your question. Guess it would be mine too, if I were in your place. I have important news. It won’t be long now, for you to make your stand. I’ve heard a large number of Khivar’s army is ready to desert. One from that group has been sent ahead and will meet your father to inform him of their plans. Soon after, another group will follow, and that will be the turning point, making your army what your father’s waiting for: two to one. Then it’s your call. You need to be ready…”
“I am ready. Do you think a couple of stupid cuts are going to stop me?” Michael smirked.
“No, they won’t, but they could mean the difference between life and death, and eventually defeat. This evening, as soon as ‘Max and the Gang’ return from their current pastime, they will get you back in shape, but it will still take about a human week for the pain to go away completely. You know it, you’ve been there too many times so far, so you know you won’t be in your top shape until then.”
“Wrong, I’m used to pain, I start hurting seconds after a battle begins which is as soon as they start trying to kill me. So it will hardly make any difference if I’m already hurting when I get there. Why the sudden interest?” Michael inquired.
“I’ve already told you, I’m sick of Khivar and his attitude. Lately, I’ve come to realize how unimportant I am in this whole thing. Khivar wouldn’t hesitate to use me as a shield if it came to saving himself. That’s what ‘family’ means to him. Just someone he can use when he needs him or her for that matter, he doesn’t give a damn, that’s about it. You know all I’ve done for him; I’ve even tortured you and killed you, then tortured you again and tried to kill you. Now I’m glad that last time didn’t work for both our sakes. I’m past caring now, you know? What could I possibly expect from anyone, if my own family, my cousin, has used me the way he has? All I really want is to see he gets what he deserves, so then I can just crawl into any hole where I may fit and wait for the outcome, to see if it’s worth it going on.” Nicholas said bitterly.
“Hey, I’m not like that. If you prove yourself trustworthy, you will be treated fairly. Now please, I really need to sleep, ok? You can stay if you want, just make sure nobody else finds out you’re with me.” Michael closed his eyes hoping Nicholas wouldn’t feel offended and was glad to feel his smaller hand give his much larger one a squeeze. Michael smirked and relaxed, finding it hard to believe he was feeling safe with Nicholas beside him, but he also knew his Royal blood wouldn’t fool him.
Serena was intrigued by the way Michael jerked and squirmed, as if he was being prodded, but his reaction was more like he was being tickled which brought some pain from his trying to get away, in the end. She got a fading whisper and Michael blocked her out. Identification was impossible because the word hadn’t actually been spoken but it definitely had sounded like an apology. For a while, Michael didn’t seem to be in a strained situation, or upset, so when he smirked and relaxed, Serena had to admit whatever had happened, was all right.
Half an hour later, the nurse came to give him his full medication, but unlike the other times, Michael had blocked himself out completely, so nothing out of the ordinary happened and she left with her usual smile. She kept coming for the checkups on schedule until the last one at 11:30 am when she came to get him ready to go. She stopped the drip and injected him what must have been a stimulant before she removed the needle, because in seconds, Michael was stirring and stretching until he froze wincing, when his healing wounds told him he had gone far enough. He opened his eyes moaning, and was met by the nurse’s, Serena’s and Wayne’s, all full of compassion.
- There, there, honey, you have to be careful not to tear yourself open again. You’re healing quite nicely, so just go easy on yourself, ok? - Irene smiled and rubbed his back. - Let me give you a last massage before you leave, ok? I guess your friends will be able to do the same too for you at least twice a day. Be sure to remind them. -
Irene expertly eased his sore muscles starting right above the small of his back where the wounds began all the way up to his shoulders, and enjoyed the feeling of the strong young flesh under her hands. She couldn’t help thinking how lucky his girlfriend was, as well as the other ones who could also be in touching closeness with him. She was surprised at this hint of a déjà vu, sure she had been there before and wondering why she couldn’t remember it. She shrugged as she finished and turned to the small closet by the bathroom to get his clothes. Serena jumped to her feet and beat her to it, knowing Michael’s jeans had been in threads and had probably been thrown away. No one had thought of bringing a replacement, having better ways, so she put them into use.
- I’ll get them for you; you get him out of that thing. - Serena smiled and opened the door, using it to shield herself from the nurse’s sight.
Once she saw her turn towards Michael, Serena quickly materialized a pair of soft cotton sweat pants and brought out the hanger nodding to Wayne to get the boots and socks. Irene pointed towards the bathroom and the clothes ended on the hook behind the door and the floor.
They watched Irene expertly get Michael out of the hospital gown using the same technique the orderlies had used to get it on, and then asked for their help, as she was a rather small person, to very gently ease him sideways until he was jackknifed over the left edge of the bed. Then they helped him straighten up with Wayne pushing him up off the narrow bed from across it. Michael couldn’t believe he was upright again. He sighed with a slight wince, and wobbled a little, obviously dizzy as both Serena and Irene held on to him on each side to keep him steady. Wayne rushed over, standing behind him and held him by the hips, careful of his wounds. Michael took a deep breath ending in another sigh and nodded.
- I’m ok now. - He assured them, but didn’t move or try to push them away.
Serena felt he was still blocked out, smartly not trusting or risking what he might send to the nurse again.
- Are you sure? - Serena asked, not feeling him as when they were connected.
Michael nodded with one of his typical smirks and the nurse took it for granted.
Then very slowly, they maneuvered him to the shower stall and Irene turned on the water before getting him in.
- Just take the cold away, I can’t stand hot water. - Michael asked.
- Of course, you couldn’t take that with those wounds, I’ll get it barely warm, just what you need. - Irene used her hand to make sure the water was just right.
Irene rolled up her sleeves and used one of the two towels on the rack to wrap it around her whites to protect them the best she could, helping Michael under the spray.
They watched admiringly as Michael’s firm body got completely wet. The boy turned his face up into the jet, then shook the water off his hair and turned to them startled when he heard them cry out. He had done it so mechanically that he hadn’t realized he could get them wet. They had jumped safely back, with just a few drops on their clothes but giving him a forgiving look that made him grin.
Irene reached in and turned the water off, taking the bar of soap as she pushed Michael around with his back to them. As Michael smelt Ivory, he knew that though she couldn’t get anything from him, he sure could and appreciated her choice.
She soaped his whole back area, wounds included and reached around him to do his front. She squatted to do his legs and then changed to a small bottle reaching up to shampoo his hair.
- It’s ok, it’s the baby kind, I thought you would rather have that. - She smiled.
- Yeah, thanks. - Of course he knew that too.
As Michael enjoyed the touch of her fingers lathering his hair, he remembered that other shower at the Roswell hospital in Isabel and Maria’s hands and wondered what it would have been like if Susan had been the one in charge. He was brought back from his thoughts as Irene told him to close his eyes, and moved to his face. She turned the water back on and they watched again entranced as the spray rinsed the tall boy’s body and hair. When the spray was off once more, Michael warned them and shook his hair again. Irene took the other towel and received Michael in her arms as he backed into them. Finding her small size helpful, she just glued herself against his damaged area drying it with the contact, as she rubbed and dubbed the rest of him dry. She backed off and gently peeled the damp towel from his wounds, eliciting a hiss from him, as she knelt to see them close by. She pulled the towel off of her and used the part that had been away from her to make sure the stitches and staples were dry enough.
- Believe it or not, when water dries, it makes the scabs fall off faster, as long as they are not picked, you hear that? - She peeked around at Michael’s face, making it sound like a threat. - Because they’re going to get real itchy if they aren’t already. -
- I know, I’ve been hurt before. - Michael scoffed.
- I’m so sorry, of course you have! - Irene used both her hands to trace the scars on Michael’s back, with a sad look on her face. - Alright, let’s do something about your hair. -
She climbed on the toilet and began towel drying it vigorously, then combing it with her fingers, humming to herself and smiling as she would with a child.
- You’ve got beautiful hair, you know? It’s so soft and abundant, I envy you and I’m sure I’m not the only one. - She giggled. - I’ll give baby shampoo a try, you bet I will! Fine, let’s get you dressed. -
They proceeded back to the room and now Michael was moving quite freely, the bath having done miracles. He felt refreshed and much stronger than when he went in. Serena and Irene were at his sides as Wayne followed them with Michael’s clothes, having decided it would be easier to dress him up here instead of at the constricted small bathroom that barely had held the four of them, as she had thought possible originally. She had expected Serena and Wayne to stay waiting outside, but she didn’t have the heart to kick them out, seeing how they cared for the boy. She placed him in front of the bed, facing it, and switched places with Wayne, kneeling on the floor, now behind Michael.
- Ok, let’s begin with the hardest. - She took the sweat pants and raised Michael’s lower leg backwards just off the ground.
She started the pants over it and did the same on the other side. Then she pulled them up his thighs until she reached the sore area of the injections. From then on, she was very gentle and extra careful every time she felt him stiffen with pain. Once the garment was in place, Michael knew Serena had been totally right on choosing a snug one, as a loose or baggy one would have rubbed on the wounds with each movement, while these ones moved along with him. Wayne tried to get the t-shirt over Michael’s head but he wasn’t tall enough, so Irene kicked off her shoes and stood on the bed, taking the task in her hands, just like she had done, perched on the toilet, with Michael’s hair. Serena pulled it down making sure it reached just under the waist of the sweats so it wouldn’t rub where it shouldn’t either. The socks and boots were accomplished in the same way as the pants and by then, Michael managed a few steps that took him to the couch and he slowly lay down on it, feeling his strength slowly coming back. Serena excused herself and went to the bathroom as she could feel most of the gang fighting to get through to her to find out what was going on, as it was the time for Michael’s presumed discharge. Once inside, Serena sent to them that Michael was ready to leave and they were just waiting for Stuart to come and get him. She preferred to skip the bath thing because blocking out just Maria would be too obvious. She told them to cool off and she would let them know the second they were out of there. Serena came out and asked Irene what was delaying the discharge, so she said she would go and see, because they had insisted on her coming to have the patient ready to leave asap.
- Is something wrong? Don’t tell me I have to stay here any longer! - Michael moaned.
- No honey, I don’t sense anything wrong. The nurse has gone to see why they’re delaying, that’s all. - Serena soothed him.
- Irene. - Michael whispered.
- What? - Serena didn’t get it.
- Irene, the nurse is called Irene. - Michael explained.
- Oh…- Serena scoffed, of course he knew her name which would now become Maria’s new pet peeve when she eventually found out about it.
They were relieved to hear footsteps coming over and stopping in front of the room to open the door.
- Sorry, kid, but the paperwork took a little longer. Ok, let’s get you out of here! - Stuart said with a big smile.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 67
As they stepped out of the room, the orderly was waiting with a wheelchair.
- Ok, kid, hop on! - He smiled.
- No way dude, unless you want me to kneel backwards cause I can’t sit down! -
- Whatever, I have to wheel you out. - The man insisted as Stuart watched amused.
- Make me! - Michael smirked and started walking away with Stuart.
- Doctor, sir…- The man pleaded.
- He’s right. Do you want to see his ass? - Stuart followed Michael’s game.
- N…no, I brought him in, I know how bad it was. - The man stuttered.
- Well, it still is, I’ve got a family of doctors, that’s why I’m going home. - Michael said and went on walking.
- Alright, just kneel then, I don’t want to get fired! - The man insisted.
- It’s ok, don’t worry, just say I sent you back. - Stuart nodded and the man left frowning.
- Thanks, man, how are we leaving? - Michael wondered.
- Rubén is already waiting outside. - Stuart nodded.
- Cool! - Michael said as Serena and Wayne caught up with them at the door of the parking lot.
The worried orderly had asked them to go with him and explain to the head nurse about the patient. Irene confirmed what he was saying and hurried out after them to say goodbye to Michael. She arrived as they had just climbed on the back of the SUV, so she climbed in too to find Michael stretched out on the back seat.
- Hey! - Michael called her over. - Thanks for everything. -
He reached out for her and she caught his hand, blushing when Michael took hers to his mouth and kissed it.
- It’s my job, I’m glad if I could make you feel better, though I’m very sorry about the needles. - She frowned.
- I’m used to them, don’t worry, and you did a great job. - He smiled in that special way he had, when he really meant it.
- Dr. Davis has my phone number if you ever need me. - She smiled back as she turned to leave.
- That would be great, but I’m afraid I’m going to be the pin cushion for all of them to practice on me at home. - Michael scoffed.
- I hope they’re careful. - She said at the door.
- Me too! - Michael really meant it.
When Irene left, Rubén, who had been waiting respectfully by the door, climbed in and went to say hello to Michael.
- Hey Michael, real glad to see you! - Rubén said, squatting by the seat and squeezing Michael’s shoulder.
- Not even half as much as I am, man! - Michael chuckled grabbing his forearm and squeezing back. - Please, get me out of here! -
- Right away! - Rubén said, getting up and rushing to the driver’s seat to please him.
When they arrived, Michael insisted in using the back door to his room and Rubén decided not to tell him Anita, Sylvia and Javi were waiting for him at the front door, realizing the way Michael had chosen was shorter and better for him.
The “Welcome Party” had rushed up the stairs after they saw the SUV rush past them guessing the reason for it. They stood outside the closed door of the room, hesitating whether to knock or wait until they opened it for them.
- I told you they would use the back door, Mamá! - Sylvia told Anita.
- Ya, pues! - (Alright!) Anita snapped back, impatient to see Michael and not ready to admit she had been wrong.
Michael pulled his t-shirt over his head as Stuart, Serena, Wayne and Rubén were carefully peeling down his sweats. The second they had it down to his knees, he inched forwards on the bed and flopped down, as Serena very discreetly used her powers to pull his boots off. As they rid him completely of the pants, Michael surreptitiously aimed his hand in the direction of the door where he could feel the three persons waiting uncertainly outside. When the lock clicked open, Anita couldn’t take it any longer and pushed the door aside stepping in. They made no sound on the carpeted floor and Michael was almost expecting Anita’s shout as she saw him.
- Huy, madre santisima! Se le han cagado todos los tatuajes! Tan lindos que estaban! - (‘Ooy,’ typical expression, ‘holiest mother! All the tattoos have got fucked up!’ Literally, crapped up. ‘And they were so cute!’)
Sylvia couldn’t help exploding in laughter as Javi and Rubén were trying hard not to follow her example, tears rolling down their cheeks with the effort to hold back. Michael and Serena, who had understood it perfectly, were laughing their heads off along with Sylvia as Anita was flushed red in outrage, realizing they were laughing at her.
- Rubén! Sylvia! Javi! Compórtense! - (Behave yourselves!) Anita raised her voice angrily at her husband, daughter and son-in-law.
She only succeeded in sending the girl on a fresh peal of laughter, now openly joined by Rubén and Javi who couldn’t contain themselves any longer and were not risking getting ruptures. Stuart and Wayne had also joined in, finding the whole thing utterly funny when they got the translation through Michael and Serena. When the laughter finally died down without further interference, Anita herself was struggling to stay in control, as the laughter was definitely contagious.
- Perdón!...I’m sorry, Michael, it’s just that…- She started apologizing.
- It’s ok, Anita, Stuart says the tattoos will be fine. - Michael said, still chuckling.
- Just a few thin lines across them that will fade with time. That’s all. -
Anita nodded and sent a murderous look in her family’s direction, specially to Sylvia, who had begun the whole thing.
- Ay mamá! It’s just that the way you said it was hilarious! Even Michael was cracking up! -
- You can say that again! I think the stitches and staples went to hell! Shit Stuart, I hope I’m wrong! - Michael moaned as the pain hit him.
Stuart did as Michael asked him but everything was alright and he told him so.
- Pobrecito! (Poor thing!) I didn’t mean to hurt you! I’ll get you some leaves that will have you as good as new in no time! - She exclaimed and rushed out of the room.
- Now she’ll cover you in llanten, (pronounced yang-teng, plantain leaves) but she’s right, they’re really amazing. You’ll be surprised. - Sylvia nodded.
“And so will you after Max does his thing tonight. Great idea though, cause it will be attributed to the leaves.” Michael thought and sent it to Serena and Stuart.
Anita was back in no time with a bowl of yellowish water full of leaves. The water was steaming and Michael eyed it suspiciously.
- Hey, if you put hot leaves on me you’ll kill me! - He exploded.
- No, no! I pick them out and shake them until they are cold before I apply them, that’s how you do it! - She assured him.
They watched her do just that, but still Michael went tight and flinched when she placed it on him. And yes, every leaf was cold as she laid them on him. When she finished, all the cuts were covered in leaves, and Anita warned them they would stick and wouldn’t fall off until their job was done, so they had to let them be.
“Max is going to throw one hell of a fit when he finds me looking like a frog pond.” Michael thought and sent Serena and Stuart again laughing their heads off by themselves.
At the others’ confused faces, they explained Michael’s thoughts as their own, laughing even more at the “coincidence” of having them say they had had the same impression which they had unknowingly received from Michael’s strong vibes. That had them on a new bout of mirth, only Michael didn’t find it that funny this time, not wanting it to start hurting again after realizing the leaves had actually eased his pain quite effectively.
- You should get some sleep, because as soon as the whole circus is back, they won’t let you rest until they know everything that went on while they were away. -
- I’m kind of thirsty. - Michael confessed, feeling a little feverish.
- Javi, get me a jug full of ice, run! - Anita ordered.
- It’s not that bad! - Michael wondered what she was going to do with the ice, remembering rather alarmed other previous experiences.
- It’s to cool down the llanten water. It’s practically tasteless, and it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory when you drink it. Give it a try, it’s worth it. - Anita encouraged Michael.
Javi ran in with the ice and a glass and when Michael took a small skeptic sip, he found it just like Anita had said, almost tasteless and refreshing, so he downed the whole glass and even had a refill. Anita was thrilled, and filled the jug with what was left of the water almost all the way to the rim, with the floating ice and still a few leaves left, covering it with a dish.
- Have all you want and let me know to get you more if you want to, ok? - She beamed with pride at her herbal skills.
- Sure, thanks. - Michael smiled and closed his eyes.
When the two couples were gone, Stuart touched Michael’s cheek and he knew he was feverish. He brought the thermometer and found out he was spiking 103º so he had to inject an antypiretic partly iv and the rest im in his own way, then picked a leave from the jug and covered the area of the infiltration with it. A few minutes later, Michael was finally sleeping and Stuart, Serena and Wayne sat exhausted on the couch and watched over him, waiting for the rest of the gang.
A couple of hours later, they climbed the stairs and burst into the bedroom like a buffalo stampeed. Serena and Stuart sensed them coming but Wayne was dozing and they took him by surprise. He jumped to his feet, eyes popping out of his head in fright, to calm down when he realized it was just them back home. He sighed and placed his hand over his heart dramatically.
- Man! You almost gave me a major stroke! - He slumped back on the chair.
- What happened to him? - Max exclaimed as his eyes went over to Michael and his jaw hit the floor at the sight of the drying leaves.
- Oh, that’s the frog pond, according to Michael himself…- Serena said as seriously as she could muster before both she, Stuart and Wayne started laughing uncontrollably.
As their laughter started dying out, Maria, who was the only one missing, ran into the dim room and went straight to Michael, quite confused and screamed:
- What the hell is that?!!! -
- The…the frog pond? - Max wondered if it would make sense to her.
- Frog…pond? Where are the frogs? What have you done to him? - Maria’s lips trembled, ready to cry.
- Maria, there are no real frogs, that’s what Michael called it when Anita covered him with her medicinal leaves, it was real funny, don’t get us wrong, come here! -
Serena briefed them about the whole thing when Michael was brought home, and they breathed with relief, adding a few giggles and chuckles at Anita’s expense.
- So how do I go about it? Can I work him over the leaves, or do I wait for them to fall off, because Michael’s right, they’re a great excuse for my healing. - Max said.
- How should I know? I have no idea…wait! I do have an idea! - Serena’s eyes closed tight in concentration as she began to chant.
In spite of having been hearing the Antares tongue for some time now, they were finding it very hard to follow but the three names of Ramthis, Amaru and Rath-Michael were crystal clear. And there, before their eyes, the powerful Andes Shaman materialized in full regalia. He leant over watching the array of leaves covering the whole zone. He smiled and nodded satisfied, quite familiar with the plant and its amazing effects. He turned towards Serena and spoke with the underwater sound.
“He will be perfectly healed, just let the leaves do their work. Zan can do his checking through them but he mustn’t interfere. His skills will not be needed. My prince’s body will accept the herbal healing this time, but not again, as by the next time you try it, he will have developed a resistance to the alien plant and will not allow their magic again. Give my respects to my ‘paisana’” The Shaman chuckled, satisfied, knowing only someone from his same people and culture had to be the one using the llanten. He skimmed his hand over the leaves, boosting their power, and disappeared, leaving Michael moaning and craving his trusted and comforting presence.
- Alright Max, you heard him, go ahead and do as Amaru said. - Serena told him.
Max nodded, disappointed that his healing powers had been treated so lightly, but respected the older man’s advice and knew it would be unwise to defy him. He approached Michael a little doubtful to make a full connection, not wanting to end up looking like a frog pool himself, and worse still, where he could see it if the leaves decided to end up sticking on him instead, so trusting he needed no connection at all for just checking, he let his hand hover over the leaves expecting them to vanish and have the curse of both Amaru and Anita on his head. Somehow, Anita’s seemed as scary as Amaru’s, and Max was ready to stop the second the leaves started reacting funny to his powers, like say, starting to disappear which would mean he was fucking up the whole thing, but nothing of the sort happened. He just sensed the skin under it undergoing a fairly reasonable healing process which left him astonished at the innocent looking leaves. They were really working! He gasped as Michael gave a start and whispered his name.
- Max…no…-
- It’s ok, Amaru’s ok with it too, I’m not interfering, just checking like he suggested it was alright for me to do. It’s going fine, though he said it would only work once while your body builds a resistance to it. I guess it will not be as fast and violent as with the aggressive human drugs, being of a natural source and of Amaru’s homeland. So it’s safe this time, at least. Anita will be thrilled. -
- I don’t mind her covering me in leaves because even if they don’t work any longer she will think they do and they’ll take the credit for your healing. - Michael chuckled.
- Right. - Max agreed.
- Ok, guys, we have a lot of studying to do for the tests we have tomorrow, so let’s get to it, and you, go back to sleep, you need to heal and that’s the best way. I think you will agree with me, because I want to stay here, where we can all be together. -
Isabel couldn’t have sent the message any clearer. The fact that Michael hadn’t been attacked again had them all wondering and still afraid that it might happen again anytime. According to what Ramthis had found out through his spy, “the boy”, who had obviously been Michael had been taken away and saved from Khivar’s claws by…Nicholas? Could things get weirder? So far it had proved true, Michael had not been attacked anymore, but they found it hard to believe it was really over. They felt much better being together and close to Michael though it was impossible during several hours a day. At least he wasn’t alone, and who better than Serena, who could get through to them in seconds in case of an emergency, hoping of course, that Michael didn’t have the brilliant idea of blocking himself out like he had been doing lately, having them all intrigued about his reasons. But he was still apparently safe, perhaps it was true, Khivar no longer had a hold on him, but thanks to Nicholas? That was creepy!
So they all stayed, studied and had dinner right there while Michael snoozed, woke up, ate something, snoozed, woke up again when Stuart did the final check up of the day and they all camped around and on the bed. The chopper bringing Uncle Derek dropped him at Laurie’s where he rushed to his wife and “son” and Michael, sitting on the bed by him as he held his hand in his, telling him how glad he was to know he was home and so much better. Michael told Serena to go home to her husband with their “son” and he swore he would stay in contact no matter what. She nodded, smiling and after kissing his cheek, she told them to call at the smallest sign that something wasn’t right, though she could feel no threat at all right then. Michael fell asleep in Maria’s arms and they all had a peaceful night.
Max and Isabel spent most of the night sitting on the floor by the bed watching Michael sleep and making sure every move and moan meant he was only getting comfortable but nothing was wrong with him. When everyone started stirring, they knew it was about 6:30, which was their usual waking up time, so Max went immediately to check on the leaves. They had been sitting at the head of the be, making it impossible to see them, so when they moved to Michael’s hips, they were shocked to see most of them had already fallen off him as he squirmed and snuggled in his sleep. The few that were still on him floated away when Max tentatively blew on them and the cuts were almost there. There were a few spots that could still be better but it was really amazing what the leaves had done. Max felt smug to see he could have healed them completely in just one session but he had to give them credit, because he had not expected them to be so effective. Anita and Sylvia knocked on the door to ask them about breakfast, bringing another bowl full of leaves. The women nodded appreciatively at the way the wounds were healing and Anita covered them again with fresh leaves. They whispered they would be right back with breakfast and left just in time for Isabel to check on Suzanne Duff like she did everyday. The FBI agent was already awake, meaning nothing new, so Isabel sat up, shaking her head just as breakfast arrived. The timing had been perfect and still was when the Lavoisses arrived to send them away, Uncle Derek announcing he had taken the day off to stay with Michael. They all thought it was so sweet of him, knowing how busy he usually was, and the girls kissed his cheeks while the guys shook his hand before they left. Anita brought them breakfast too and asked them to ring her up when Michael woke up to bring him his fruit salad plus whatever he felt like. They spend a leisurely morning like Serena wished Derek would more often than only once a week, just relaxing on the comfortable couch, watching TV. Michael finally woke up past 11:00 am thinking he was still dreaming when he saw them there with him. He wolfed down his appointed breakfast having after that a big helping of strawberries, raspberries and blackberries floating in plain cream, not whipped, and covered in brown sugar. That had him snoozing until Laurie arrived from school and he sensed her coming into the room. He helped her with Maths and Literature, and the rest of the gang started arriving, keeping them entertained telling them what their day had been like. Liz decided it was an omelette night, getting it from Michael, and Anita was duly informed to treat them with Michael’s choice for dinner.
After clearing out the empty dishes, she returned with another bowl of leaves and Max was truly surprised to see there were at the most just three spots that still needed the leaves. Anita smiled, very smug and left, escorting the Lavoisses who were also on their way home. They enjoyed another peaceful night and no news from Suzanne. Michael was totally healed by then and Max vanished all the stitches and staples with his powers, but Stuart insisted he stayed home, not to risk it, just in case. Uncle Derek had an important meeting with some important businessmen that he wanted to introduce Wayne to, and Serena received a call reminding her of a charity meeting she couldn’t fail to go. Michael insisted he felt fine, needing no babysitter. He slipped into the Jacuzzi and sent them on their way promising he would behave and not to worry about him. He sounded too determined to be a good boy, which made it sound just a little too suspicious to all of them who knew him too well. There was nothing they could do about it but trust him, not too convinced they should, knowing him as well as they did. So they left him in Anita and Sylvia’s hands, feeling truly sorry for them.
As they stepped out of the room, the orderly was waiting with a wheelchair.
- Ok, kid, hop on! - He smiled.
- No way dude, unless you want me to kneel backwards cause I can’t sit down! -
- Whatever, I have to wheel you out. - The man insisted as Stuart watched amused.
- Make me! - Michael smirked and started walking away with Stuart.
- Doctor, sir…- The man pleaded.
- He’s right. Do you want to see his ass? - Stuart followed Michael’s game.
- N…no, I brought him in, I know how bad it was. - The man stuttered.
- Well, it still is, I’ve got a family of doctors, that’s why I’m going home. - Michael said and went on walking.
- Alright, just kneel then, I don’t want to get fired! - The man insisted.
- It’s ok, don’t worry, just say I sent you back. - Stuart nodded and the man left frowning.
- Thanks, man, how are we leaving? - Michael wondered.
- Rubén is already waiting outside. - Stuart nodded.
- Cool! - Michael said as Serena and Wayne caught up with them at the door of the parking lot.
The worried orderly had asked them to go with him and explain to the head nurse about the patient. Irene confirmed what he was saying and hurried out after them to say goodbye to Michael. She arrived as they had just climbed on the back of the SUV, so she climbed in too to find Michael stretched out on the back seat.
- Hey! - Michael called her over. - Thanks for everything. -
He reached out for her and she caught his hand, blushing when Michael took hers to his mouth and kissed it.
- It’s my job, I’m glad if I could make you feel better, though I’m very sorry about the needles. - She frowned.
- I’m used to them, don’t worry, and you did a great job. - He smiled in that special way he had, when he really meant it.
- Dr. Davis has my phone number if you ever need me. - She smiled back as she turned to leave.
- That would be great, but I’m afraid I’m going to be the pin cushion for all of them to practice on me at home. - Michael scoffed.
- I hope they’re careful. - She said at the door.
- Me too! - Michael really meant it.
When Irene left, Rubén, who had been waiting respectfully by the door, climbed in and went to say hello to Michael.
- Hey Michael, real glad to see you! - Rubén said, squatting by the seat and squeezing Michael’s shoulder.
- Not even half as much as I am, man! - Michael chuckled grabbing his forearm and squeezing back. - Please, get me out of here! -
- Right away! - Rubén said, getting up and rushing to the driver’s seat to please him.
When they arrived, Michael insisted in using the back door to his room and Rubén decided not to tell him Anita, Sylvia and Javi were waiting for him at the front door, realizing the way Michael had chosen was shorter and better for him.
The “Welcome Party” had rushed up the stairs after they saw the SUV rush past them guessing the reason for it. They stood outside the closed door of the room, hesitating whether to knock or wait until they opened it for them.
- I told you they would use the back door, Mamá! - Sylvia told Anita.
- Ya, pues! - (Alright!) Anita snapped back, impatient to see Michael and not ready to admit she had been wrong.
Michael pulled his t-shirt over his head as Stuart, Serena, Wayne and Rubén were carefully peeling down his sweats. The second they had it down to his knees, he inched forwards on the bed and flopped down, as Serena very discreetly used her powers to pull his boots off. As they rid him completely of the pants, Michael surreptitiously aimed his hand in the direction of the door where he could feel the three persons waiting uncertainly outside. When the lock clicked open, Anita couldn’t take it any longer and pushed the door aside stepping in. They made no sound on the carpeted floor and Michael was almost expecting Anita’s shout as she saw him.
- Huy, madre santisima! Se le han cagado todos los tatuajes! Tan lindos que estaban! - (‘Ooy,’ typical expression, ‘holiest mother! All the tattoos have got fucked up!’ Literally, crapped up. ‘And they were so cute!’)
Sylvia couldn’t help exploding in laughter as Javi and Rubén were trying hard not to follow her example, tears rolling down their cheeks with the effort to hold back. Michael and Serena, who had understood it perfectly, were laughing their heads off along with Sylvia as Anita was flushed red in outrage, realizing they were laughing at her.
- Rubén! Sylvia! Javi! Compórtense! - (Behave yourselves!) Anita raised her voice angrily at her husband, daughter and son-in-law.
She only succeeded in sending the girl on a fresh peal of laughter, now openly joined by Rubén and Javi who couldn’t contain themselves any longer and were not risking getting ruptures. Stuart and Wayne had also joined in, finding the whole thing utterly funny when they got the translation through Michael and Serena. When the laughter finally died down without further interference, Anita herself was struggling to stay in control, as the laughter was definitely contagious.
- Perdón!...I’m sorry, Michael, it’s just that…- She started apologizing.
- It’s ok, Anita, Stuart says the tattoos will be fine. - Michael said, still chuckling.
- Just a few thin lines across them that will fade with time. That’s all. -
Anita nodded and sent a murderous look in her family’s direction, specially to Sylvia, who had begun the whole thing.
- Ay mamá! It’s just that the way you said it was hilarious! Even Michael was cracking up! -
- You can say that again! I think the stitches and staples went to hell! Shit Stuart, I hope I’m wrong! - Michael moaned as the pain hit him.
Stuart did as Michael asked him but everything was alright and he told him so.
- Pobrecito! (Poor thing!) I didn’t mean to hurt you! I’ll get you some leaves that will have you as good as new in no time! - She exclaimed and rushed out of the room.
- Now she’ll cover you in llanten, (pronounced yang-teng, plantain leaves) but she’s right, they’re really amazing. You’ll be surprised. - Sylvia nodded.
“And so will you after Max does his thing tonight. Great idea though, cause it will be attributed to the leaves.” Michael thought and sent it to Serena and Stuart.
Anita was back in no time with a bowl of yellowish water full of leaves. The water was steaming and Michael eyed it suspiciously.
- Hey, if you put hot leaves on me you’ll kill me! - He exploded.
- No, no! I pick them out and shake them until they are cold before I apply them, that’s how you do it! - She assured him.
They watched her do just that, but still Michael went tight and flinched when she placed it on him. And yes, every leaf was cold as she laid them on him. When she finished, all the cuts were covered in leaves, and Anita warned them they would stick and wouldn’t fall off until their job was done, so they had to let them be.
“Max is going to throw one hell of a fit when he finds me looking like a frog pond.” Michael thought and sent Serena and Stuart again laughing their heads off by themselves.
At the others’ confused faces, they explained Michael’s thoughts as their own, laughing even more at the “coincidence” of having them say they had had the same impression which they had unknowingly received from Michael’s strong vibes. That had them on a new bout of mirth, only Michael didn’t find it that funny this time, not wanting it to start hurting again after realizing the leaves had actually eased his pain quite effectively.
- You should get some sleep, because as soon as the whole circus is back, they won’t let you rest until they know everything that went on while they were away. -
- I’m kind of thirsty. - Michael confessed, feeling a little feverish.
- Javi, get me a jug full of ice, run! - Anita ordered.
- It’s not that bad! - Michael wondered what she was going to do with the ice, remembering rather alarmed other previous experiences.
- It’s to cool down the llanten water. It’s practically tasteless, and it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory when you drink it. Give it a try, it’s worth it. - Anita encouraged Michael.
Javi ran in with the ice and a glass and when Michael took a small skeptic sip, he found it just like Anita had said, almost tasteless and refreshing, so he downed the whole glass and even had a refill. Anita was thrilled, and filled the jug with what was left of the water almost all the way to the rim, with the floating ice and still a few leaves left, covering it with a dish.
- Have all you want and let me know to get you more if you want to, ok? - She beamed with pride at her herbal skills.
- Sure, thanks. - Michael smiled and closed his eyes.
When the two couples were gone, Stuart touched Michael’s cheek and he knew he was feverish. He brought the thermometer and found out he was spiking 103º so he had to inject an antypiretic partly iv and the rest im in his own way, then picked a leave from the jug and covered the area of the infiltration with it. A few minutes later, Michael was finally sleeping and Stuart, Serena and Wayne sat exhausted on the couch and watched over him, waiting for the rest of the gang.
A couple of hours later, they climbed the stairs and burst into the bedroom like a buffalo stampeed. Serena and Stuart sensed them coming but Wayne was dozing and they took him by surprise. He jumped to his feet, eyes popping out of his head in fright, to calm down when he realized it was just them back home. He sighed and placed his hand over his heart dramatically.
- Man! You almost gave me a major stroke! - He slumped back on the chair.
- What happened to him? - Max exclaimed as his eyes went over to Michael and his jaw hit the floor at the sight of the drying leaves.
- Oh, that’s the frog pond, according to Michael himself…- Serena said as seriously as she could muster before both she, Stuart and Wayne started laughing uncontrollably.
As their laughter started dying out, Maria, who was the only one missing, ran into the dim room and went straight to Michael, quite confused and screamed:
- What the hell is that?!!! -
- The…the frog pond? - Max wondered if it would make sense to her.
- Frog…pond? Where are the frogs? What have you done to him? - Maria’s lips trembled, ready to cry.
- Maria, there are no real frogs, that’s what Michael called it when Anita covered him with her medicinal leaves, it was real funny, don’t get us wrong, come here! -
Serena briefed them about the whole thing when Michael was brought home, and they breathed with relief, adding a few giggles and chuckles at Anita’s expense.
- So how do I go about it? Can I work him over the leaves, or do I wait for them to fall off, because Michael’s right, they’re a great excuse for my healing. - Max said.
- How should I know? I have no idea…wait! I do have an idea! - Serena’s eyes closed tight in concentration as she began to chant.
In spite of having been hearing the Antares tongue for some time now, they were finding it very hard to follow but the three names of Ramthis, Amaru and Rath-Michael were crystal clear. And there, before their eyes, the powerful Andes Shaman materialized in full regalia. He leant over watching the array of leaves covering the whole zone. He smiled and nodded satisfied, quite familiar with the plant and its amazing effects. He turned towards Serena and spoke with the underwater sound.
“He will be perfectly healed, just let the leaves do their work. Zan can do his checking through them but he mustn’t interfere. His skills will not be needed. My prince’s body will accept the herbal healing this time, but not again, as by the next time you try it, he will have developed a resistance to the alien plant and will not allow their magic again. Give my respects to my ‘paisana’” The Shaman chuckled, satisfied, knowing only someone from his same people and culture had to be the one using the llanten. He skimmed his hand over the leaves, boosting their power, and disappeared, leaving Michael moaning and craving his trusted and comforting presence.
- Alright Max, you heard him, go ahead and do as Amaru said. - Serena told him.
Max nodded, disappointed that his healing powers had been treated so lightly, but respected the older man’s advice and knew it would be unwise to defy him. He approached Michael a little doubtful to make a full connection, not wanting to end up looking like a frog pool himself, and worse still, where he could see it if the leaves decided to end up sticking on him instead, so trusting he needed no connection at all for just checking, he let his hand hover over the leaves expecting them to vanish and have the curse of both Amaru and Anita on his head. Somehow, Anita’s seemed as scary as Amaru’s, and Max was ready to stop the second the leaves started reacting funny to his powers, like say, starting to disappear which would mean he was fucking up the whole thing, but nothing of the sort happened. He just sensed the skin under it undergoing a fairly reasonable healing process which left him astonished at the innocent looking leaves. They were really working! He gasped as Michael gave a start and whispered his name.
- Max…no…-
- It’s ok, Amaru’s ok with it too, I’m not interfering, just checking like he suggested it was alright for me to do. It’s going fine, though he said it would only work once while your body builds a resistance to it. I guess it will not be as fast and violent as with the aggressive human drugs, being of a natural source and of Amaru’s homeland. So it’s safe this time, at least. Anita will be thrilled. -
- I don’t mind her covering me in leaves because even if they don’t work any longer she will think they do and they’ll take the credit for your healing. - Michael chuckled.
- Right. - Max agreed.
- Ok, guys, we have a lot of studying to do for the tests we have tomorrow, so let’s get to it, and you, go back to sleep, you need to heal and that’s the best way. I think you will agree with me, because I want to stay here, where we can all be together. -
Isabel couldn’t have sent the message any clearer. The fact that Michael hadn’t been attacked again had them all wondering and still afraid that it might happen again anytime. According to what Ramthis had found out through his spy, “the boy”, who had obviously been Michael had been taken away and saved from Khivar’s claws by…Nicholas? Could things get weirder? So far it had proved true, Michael had not been attacked anymore, but they found it hard to believe it was really over. They felt much better being together and close to Michael though it was impossible during several hours a day. At least he wasn’t alone, and who better than Serena, who could get through to them in seconds in case of an emergency, hoping of course, that Michael didn’t have the brilliant idea of blocking himself out like he had been doing lately, having them all intrigued about his reasons. But he was still apparently safe, perhaps it was true, Khivar no longer had a hold on him, but thanks to Nicholas? That was creepy!
So they all stayed, studied and had dinner right there while Michael snoozed, woke up, ate something, snoozed, woke up again when Stuart did the final check up of the day and they all camped around and on the bed. The chopper bringing Uncle Derek dropped him at Laurie’s where he rushed to his wife and “son” and Michael, sitting on the bed by him as he held his hand in his, telling him how glad he was to know he was home and so much better. Michael told Serena to go home to her husband with their “son” and he swore he would stay in contact no matter what. She nodded, smiling and after kissing his cheek, she told them to call at the smallest sign that something wasn’t right, though she could feel no threat at all right then. Michael fell asleep in Maria’s arms and they all had a peaceful night.
Max and Isabel spent most of the night sitting on the floor by the bed watching Michael sleep and making sure every move and moan meant he was only getting comfortable but nothing was wrong with him. When everyone started stirring, they knew it was about 6:30, which was their usual waking up time, so Max went immediately to check on the leaves. They had been sitting at the head of the be, making it impossible to see them, so when they moved to Michael’s hips, they were shocked to see most of them had already fallen off him as he squirmed and snuggled in his sleep. The few that were still on him floated away when Max tentatively blew on them and the cuts were almost there. There were a few spots that could still be better but it was really amazing what the leaves had done. Max felt smug to see he could have healed them completely in just one session but he had to give them credit, because he had not expected them to be so effective. Anita and Sylvia knocked on the door to ask them about breakfast, bringing another bowl full of leaves. The women nodded appreciatively at the way the wounds were healing and Anita covered them again with fresh leaves. They whispered they would be right back with breakfast and left just in time for Isabel to check on Suzanne Duff like she did everyday. The FBI agent was already awake, meaning nothing new, so Isabel sat up, shaking her head just as breakfast arrived. The timing had been perfect and still was when the Lavoisses arrived to send them away, Uncle Derek announcing he had taken the day off to stay with Michael. They all thought it was so sweet of him, knowing how busy he usually was, and the girls kissed his cheeks while the guys shook his hand before they left. Anita brought them breakfast too and asked them to ring her up when Michael woke up to bring him his fruit salad plus whatever he felt like. They spend a leisurely morning like Serena wished Derek would more often than only once a week, just relaxing on the comfortable couch, watching TV. Michael finally woke up past 11:00 am thinking he was still dreaming when he saw them there with him. He wolfed down his appointed breakfast having after that a big helping of strawberries, raspberries and blackberries floating in plain cream, not whipped, and covered in brown sugar. That had him snoozing until Laurie arrived from school and he sensed her coming into the room. He helped her with Maths and Literature, and the rest of the gang started arriving, keeping them entertained telling them what their day had been like. Liz decided it was an omelette night, getting it from Michael, and Anita was duly informed to treat them with Michael’s choice for dinner.
After clearing out the empty dishes, she returned with another bowl of leaves and Max was truly surprised to see there were at the most just three spots that still needed the leaves. Anita smiled, very smug and left, escorting the Lavoisses who were also on their way home. They enjoyed another peaceful night and no news from Suzanne. Michael was totally healed by then and Max vanished all the stitches and staples with his powers, but Stuart insisted he stayed home, not to risk it, just in case. Uncle Derek had an important meeting with some important businessmen that he wanted to introduce Wayne to, and Serena received a call reminding her of a charity meeting she couldn’t fail to go. Michael insisted he felt fine, needing no babysitter. He slipped into the Jacuzzi and sent them on their way promising he would behave and not to worry about him. He sounded too determined to be a good boy, which made it sound just a little too suspicious to all of them who knew him too well. There was nothing they could do about it but trust him, not too convinced they should, knowing him as well as they did. So they left him in Anita and Sylvia’s hands, feeling truly sorry for them.
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Chapter 68
Michael felt great as he relaxed in the whirlpool by himself. He had slept most of the time during the last days and felt totally refreshed and ready for anything. They all expected him to behave like an invalid at least today when they couldn’t be there to make sure he did, but he definitely had other plans. He got out, drying and clothing himself in sweats up and down with riding boots under the pants, not to be too suspicious if he was seen, which was not what he was planning as far as he could manage it, and honed his senses to feel where everyone was. Anita was dusting the library, and that would take ages, Sylvia was almost up to her ankles in water as she was drenching and scrubbing the kitchen floor, and as he went to the terrace behind his room, he could see Rubén and Javi climbing on the pick-up van and taking off towards the lake where they weekly cleaned out the shrub that went all the way to the shore in a couple of tricky places. That meant he would go north, in the opposite direction, to be out of their way. He headed for the stables, quite sure of himself.
When he arrived, he saw both horses were in their corrals, nickering at him as soon as they saw him. He whistled at them and went into the barn to get them some carrots and the tack he would need. He stood between both corrals, feeding them the carrots, one hand for each, and when he ran out of them, petted them affectionately. Moonshadow kept pushing his nose against his chest, demanding Michael’s full attention and he complied wrapping his arms around his neck and kissing his nose.
- Sorry boy, but I’m afraid it will still take me a couple of days to be ready for you, I’ll take your buddy here cause I think I can make it on him, ok? - Michael smirked.
He slipped into the Paso’s corral and had him in a walking rein, with no bit and a sweat pad plus two extra thick foam pads held in place by an elastic surcingle. He led him out of the corral and pushed up to jackknife himself over his back, sliding his leg over, as he usually did. He sat back gingerly, wincing at the initial pain that gradually turned into just a dull soreness, and took the northern trail. He walked for about five minutes and then body talked him into pacing, to test himself. Michael was pleasantly surprised to see he could take it, so he just went on until they reached the pond, but decided to skip it, not wanting to get down and have to get back on again. Anyway, he didn’t want to risk another vision like the last time he was there, specially if it involved Hank and the trailer park, though remembering the lesbians had been quite nice. A flock of birds took flight from the trees encouraging the horse into his smooth canter, with just a little extra pain which was reasonably bearable. Michael went for it and by the time he reached the fence marking the end of the property, he decided he better start back, as Sylvia had most surely finished with the kitchen floor, ready to go looking for him. She had more patience than his friends but it also had a limit, and he better be there before she got worried enough to call the alarm. He stopped and turned, walking for a few minutes to give the horse a breather and also to prevent the bad habit of racing back home like most badly trained horses did. He paced slowly back to the pond and this time had him cantering without the help of the birds. Once the barn was in sight he slowed down to a pace and ended walking and cooling the horse to arrive with his coat already dry. Michael slid off bringing a bucket full of carrots to keep Sundown busy as he hosed him down and got him dry, favouring the shedding blade for that purpose, preferring it over the scraper. He took him back to his corral with the rest of the carrots, filling up his bucket of water and making sure Moonshadow’s was full too. He got alfalfa for both of them and also carrots for the black one. He spent an extra minute apologizing to Moonshadow, sure that he understood and then turned to head back to the house.
He crashed against Sylvia, who had materialized out of nowhere while he was interacting with the larger horse, and he reflexively grabbed her tight so she wouldn’t bounce off him and fall down. It was the giggle that told him exactly who it was.
- You’ve been a bad boy, Michael! - She scolded him, not too seriously.
- Shit, Sylvia! I almost run you over! - He frowned.
- You should be glad it wasn’t my mother, or our guys, cause they wouldn’t hesitate to tell Laurie the second she set foot back home from school. - Sylvia said.
- That means you’re hesitating? - Michael smiled knowingly and the answering giggle assured him he was right. - Do you love me…even a little? -
- That’s not fair, Michael, you know you shouldn’t be out of the house, least of all riding! - Sylvia tried to sound threatening, but Michael could see through her easily.
- C’mon…give me a break…- Michael whispered, pressing her to him, knowing what he was doing to her.
- Michael…Michael, let me go! - She struggled uselessly, no match for him.
- Hey, I’m in enough trouble already, Maria is jealous of the nurse that took care of me, but she’s waiting until I can take her punishment. Do you know what she’ll do to me if she finds out I’ve been out here to see the horses? - He was trying to find out how much she had seen, cause he had been too focused on the horses to even sense her.
- You were riding! - She accused. - I was hiding behind the bales of hay and saw you coming back! -
- Sylvia…please? - He whined, biting his lower lip, and the look in her eyes as he watched him do it told him he had her.
Sylvia stopped struggling and Michael could feel her melting into him. He knew it was enough, for the sake of both of them. He gently let go of her and only held her hands in his against his chest.
- Michael, if they find out I saw you and didn’t tell them, I’ll get in trouble. - She frowned.
- No you won’t, cause no one but us knows, and anyway, I’ll say I made you swear not to tell on me. They know how convincing I can be. No sweat! -
Sylvia started giggling again and squeezed his hands.
- I don’t need to say a word for them to find out what you’ve done. - Sylvia grinned.
- What do you mean? - Michael was not totally sure what she was after.
- I think you’ve hurt yourself. . She nodded smugly.
- Oh shit! - Michael felt his ass hot from the ride, but it could also mean Sylvia was right.
He did feel sore but he sensed no real damage, so he thought up a real neat way to find out and tease Sylvia at the same time. He turned around and pulled his pants down, bending over just enough to have her blush furiously.
- Michael! Stop it! What if someone sees? - She said in a funny voice that didn’t sound exactly angry, just pleasantly shocked.
- I’ll tell them you wanted to see and asked me to do it…- He smiled, faking total innocence.
- Ok, ok, I won’t say anything, I promise! - She grabbed his hands and tried to make them pull up his pants faster that he was doing it, so now he giggled and had her worrying.
He felt her hand slide over his and gently touch him, making him shudder not only from the slight pain she caused him. She pulled away quite flustered.
- I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you! - She sounded really contrite.
- It’s ok, it wasn’t so bad. - He whispered, covering himself and turning to face her.
She noticed the way his eyes were shining, detecting the blue streaks that she was sure the weak sun struggling to master the clouds was responsible for. Deep inside her, she knew there was something else to it, and she had to do with it. She wasn’t feeling uncomfortable, rather excited so she decided she was treading dangerous ground, way over her head, and knew it was time to call it off.
- Let’s go back. - She said, and her voice sounded funny even to her.
She could hear Michael was breathing different and hurried away when he took a step towards her. Michael also decided he had gone far enough, and caught up to walk beside her, keeping a safe distance.
- Stay here, if I whistle, it means it’s safe and Mamà is far enough for you to go past the door without her seeing you. - She didn’t wait for his answer and disappeared into the kitchen. Soon after, Michael heard her whistling what he could have sworn was Metallica, so he smirked and hurried back to his room. He reached his bed to flop down, in dire need to rest his body and mind, mostly the last one, from the crazy thoughts that had him shivering with the craving for forbidden pleasures.
“You’re a whore! Back and forth!”
“Shut up Nicholas! Not now, ok? I never meant it to go so far, and that’s as far as it will go. Now let me sleep.” Michael demanded.
“Perfect! Good enough for me! It’s rushing at you Michael, in a collision course; it will be very soon now. You know what I’m talking about, don’t you?” He said.
“I know, I can feel it, you can be sure of that. Now, let me sleep, ok?” Michael asked.
“Sure kid, I’ll be right here with you.” Nicholas answered him.
“You don’t need to.” Michael told him.
“I want to.” Nicholas insisted.
“Ok.”
Michael accepted with a sigh while Nicholas’ surprisingly deft hands massaged his back sending him into a deep slumber and totally exhilarated at the fact that his newly self appointed guardian “angel” actually looked like a gargoyle!
Nicholas’ constantly growing loathing towards his cousin triggered him into boosting up Michael to ensure Khivar’s defeat. He knew the boy respected his enemies, understanding they were also fighting for a cause, just like he was, whether he considered them on the wrong side or simply his enemies. The story of his meeting with Shenti had become legendary, as had been the victory at the famous battle of the flat mountains. Shenti had fought against him and yet when he surrendered, Rath-Michael had demanded he should be treated with respect, as his prisoner. Then Ramthis had offered the man a place in their army and he had accepted. Nicholas had also heard about the incident of the healing at the underground spring, and that Shenti had been chosen to stay with Rath-Michael during the ritual and the aftermath until the next day, quite an honour for someone who had been an enemy. That gave Nicholas some hope, but not much though. Shenti may have fought against Rath-Michael in a fierce battle but as far as he knew, he had not caused the boy any physical damage, while he had not only tortured him twice, killed him, tried to kill him again, tortured him again through the “puppets” he used to kidnap him, and sent him into the claws of his rat of a cousin to be tortured again. Ok, that’s when his hate for Khivar began to escalate with dizzying speed, so he saved Michael from him…would that score for him? He sure hoped so! Michael seemed to be taking it much better than he had expected it. He loved the way he had responded to his hands, and to his presence this few times he had gone to him after explaining his reasons to be there. He didn’t seem in the least surprised of what was going on between him and Khivar, probably from his own experience, and that was definitely good as far as Nicholas was concerned.
About an hour later, Anita went to see if Michael was alright and if he was hungry enough for lunch, since it was past 1:00 pm.
- Michael, Michael! You ok? Are you hungry? Ay dios mio! Mejor llamo al doctor! (Oh my god! I better call the doctor!) -
The words plus the agitated way she said them, registered in Michael’s alien alarm system and made him react before the woman did something he didn’t agree with.
- Anita…I’m fine…just not that hungry yet, I’ll wait for Laurie, ok? I’m just resting, don’t worry. - He slurred in a sleepy voice.
- I’m sorry I woke you up, but I promised Laurie I would see how you were doing during the day. You come down or call me if you’re hungry, alright? - She smiled with relief and hurried out of the room.
Nicholas cursed the woman and had to go back to his own hated life.
Michael stretched and decided he was bored again so he decided to go down and see if he could liven things up a little. He noticed he was still wearing riding boots so he got rid of them and padded downstairs in his socks. He could hear Anita’s voice in the kitchen as he approached the room and paid attention to her words:
- Ya deben estar por comenzar a llegar. Ten cuidado con Elena, ya sabes que al mañoso ese nunca se le siente venir, y te pega cada susto! (They should begin arriving any minute now. Be careful with Elena, you know you never hear that sneaky one coming and he gives you such frights!) -
Michael wondered who Elena was, since it was a female name yet she was referring to it in male terms. He heard Sylvia agree with her mother and start walking out of the kitchen through the other door, the one leading to the pool area. He stalked her very carefully and pounced on her after she entered the big Jacuzzi room.
- Ok, who’s Elena? - He whispered in her ear from her left side.
- Fuck, Michael! You scared the crap out of me! And it’s rude to listen to other people, you know? - Sylvia jumped and covered her mouth not to scream.
- I know, you’re right, sorry, but who’s Elena? - He insisted.
- Oh, you’d like to know, huh? - She teased, smiling.
- You’re going to tell me. - He grinned, sure of himself.
- No way, my mother will kill me if I tell you. - She shook her head.
- Your mother will kill you if I tell her you made me bare my ass for you to see…- He smirked smugly.
- That’s not true, and you know it! I didn’t ask you to, you did it by yourself! - Sylvia went pale, knowing Michael would do it to get his way.
- Who do you think she’ll believe? - He chewed his lip for emphasis.
- No, Michael please don’t, ok, but you’ll have to swear it will stay just between you and me. - She said, seriously.
- Sure, I swear. - Michael nodded.
- No, it’s not that easy. You must swear on what’s most sacred to you, and you have to mean it, or I’ll tell your friends you went riding, and who will they believe? We’re even there, right? - She gave him a cunning toothy grin.
- Ok, ok, I swear on all my friends, you know how much they mean to me, it’s all I have. - Michael sighed dramatically but sincerely.
- It’s Kyle! - Sylvia whispered secretively to Michael, covering a side of her mouth with her cupped hand, in a theatrical gesture.
- Kyle? Why? - Michael exclaimed as Anita shushed him frowning and shaking her hands wildly.
She looked both ways before continuing, making sure no one was around to have heard him.
- Mamá calls him “El enano” (“The dwarf”), you know? So if you take out the last syllable, you get El ena, see? She can mean Kyle and no one will guess she’s talking about him. Mamà hates the way he creeps in on her and scares her. He might think it’s funny but it’s far from it. I don’t like it either. And anyway, Elena could be a friend or relative of ours, no one would suspect who she means. -
- I love your mother! She can be so funny, even without meaning to. - Michael chuckled.
- Yes, she’s got this very special sense of humour! - Sylvia gave just a little giggle, not to attract attention, since the kitchen wasn’t that far away.
- Yeah, quite keen. Sure love it, and her too! Don’t worry you’re both safe here. - Michael assured her.
Right then Anita started hollering for Sylvia and she rushed out gesturing to Michael to stay behind. He took the back stairs to his room and the main ones down to the kitchen so Anita wouldn’t suspect he had already been downstairs.
- Ok, I’m hungry now. What can you fix me? What’s that? - He pointed to a covered bowl in the corner by the mixer.
- It’s “tiradito”. You know, like seviche, the raw fish cooked in my lemons with creamy “ají” instead of onions, and the way you cut the fish is different too, strips instead of chunks. - Anita explained.
- I like fish, why shouldn’t I like it? - Michael wondered.
- The “ají” is rather hot. You’re not used to it. - Anita told him.
- Hey, haven’t you seen me with the Tabasco? C’mon, give me some, or maybe it’s just for you guys…there isn’t enough? I don’t want to…- Michael knew Anita wouldn’t deny him anything, but then maybe someone would end up wanting.
- No, no! There’s a lot! Laurie likes it too! Try it, I hope you like it. - Anita started scooping some for him.
- Haven’t I tried it before? - Michael was sure he had.
- Yes, but that time I made it specially mild for all of you, this is how we like it. - She placed the dish in front of him with a fork.
Michael went for it and wiped it clean in seconds to both women’s surprise.
- Do you want some water? - Sylvia asked, quite amazed.
- Can I have another helping? It’s great! - Michael pushed the dish towards them.
Anita filled the dish again and he ate it slower this time, really tasting and enjoying it. That’s when they heard Rubén arriving with Laurie and she burst into the kitchen to find Michael at the table, eyeing him suspiciously.
- Don’t tell me you ate the whole thing! - Laurie said, a little disappointed.
- I’ve had two helpings, don’t tell me that was all! - Michael turned to Sylvia and Anita who was smiling from ear to ear.
- No, the bowl is full, there’s enough for ten of you! - She teased Michael fondly.
- Whew! - Michael went, relieved, watching Laurie eat and give Anita a thumb up.
- People have the impression it’s very strong and fishy tasting when they hear it’s raw fish only cooked in lemon juice, but it’s like the Japanese sashimi. The fish has to be very fresh and better still, flounder, though “mero” is the best. It’s a huge fish, I think you call it “jewfish” but I’m not sure. That’s why the taste of the fish is mild, yet the “ají” must be strong enough to even it up. - Anita commented, expertly.
- Hey, c’mon guys, have some with us! - Michael waved them over, and after overcoming their shyness, they all ended eating together in the kitchen table. Michael insisted on Sylvia calling Javi on his mobile and soon her quiet husband joined them too. Then they wrapped it up with the pudding made of the purple corn, with chunks of apple, pineapple and quince, plus these little berries Anita called “guindas” with a silent “u” that she grew in her greenhouse too. It was very sweet, with brown sugar and it was the perfect dessert. The “chicha” was made with the same ingredients as the pudding but without the cornstarch, to remain in a liquid state. If it was left to rest a few days, it fermented and became liquor, but it was that very day’s, so it was still mild and sweet, perfect to wash down the fish. As Anita went into a detailed explanation that it could be written “seviche” or “cebiche” and both were considered grammatically correct, the whole gang arrived to also sample the delicacies.
Relaxed and in a great mood after the surprise treats, Maria went to Michael and gave him the kiss she had been dreaming with all day. Michael was caught completely off guard, and was startled when Maria pulled back with a wary look and asked:
- Who’s Irene? -
Michael felt great as he relaxed in the whirlpool by himself. He had slept most of the time during the last days and felt totally refreshed and ready for anything. They all expected him to behave like an invalid at least today when they couldn’t be there to make sure he did, but he definitely had other plans. He got out, drying and clothing himself in sweats up and down with riding boots under the pants, not to be too suspicious if he was seen, which was not what he was planning as far as he could manage it, and honed his senses to feel where everyone was. Anita was dusting the library, and that would take ages, Sylvia was almost up to her ankles in water as she was drenching and scrubbing the kitchen floor, and as he went to the terrace behind his room, he could see Rubén and Javi climbing on the pick-up van and taking off towards the lake where they weekly cleaned out the shrub that went all the way to the shore in a couple of tricky places. That meant he would go north, in the opposite direction, to be out of their way. He headed for the stables, quite sure of himself.
When he arrived, he saw both horses were in their corrals, nickering at him as soon as they saw him. He whistled at them and went into the barn to get them some carrots and the tack he would need. He stood between both corrals, feeding them the carrots, one hand for each, and when he ran out of them, petted them affectionately. Moonshadow kept pushing his nose against his chest, demanding Michael’s full attention and he complied wrapping his arms around his neck and kissing his nose.
- Sorry boy, but I’m afraid it will still take me a couple of days to be ready for you, I’ll take your buddy here cause I think I can make it on him, ok? - Michael smirked.
He slipped into the Paso’s corral and had him in a walking rein, with no bit and a sweat pad plus two extra thick foam pads held in place by an elastic surcingle. He led him out of the corral and pushed up to jackknife himself over his back, sliding his leg over, as he usually did. He sat back gingerly, wincing at the initial pain that gradually turned into just a dull soreness, and took the northern trail. He walked for about five minutes and then body talked him into pacing, to test himself. Michael was pleasantly surprised to see he could take it, so he just went on until they reached the pond, but decided to skip it, not wanting to get down and have to get back on again. Anyway, he didn’t want to risk another vision like the last time he was there, specially if it involved Hank and the trailer park, though remembering the lesbians had been quite nice. A flock of birds took flight from the trees encouraging the horse into his smooth canter, with just a little extra pain which was reasonably bearable. Michael went for it and by the time he reached the fence marking the end of the property, he decided he better start back, as Sylvia had most surely finished with the kitchen floor, ready to go looking for him. She had more patience than his friends but it also had a limit, and he better be there before she got worried enough to call the alarm. He stopped and turned, walking for a few minutes to give the horse a breather and also to prevent the bad habit of racing back home like most badly trained horses did. He paced slowly back to the pond and this time had him cantering without the help of the birds. Once the barn was in sight he slowed down to a pace and ended walking and cooling the horse to arrive with his coat already dry. Michael slid off bringing a bucket full of carrots to keep Sundown busy as he hosed him down and got him dry, favouring the shedding blade for that purpose, preferring it over the scraper. He took him back to his corral with the rest of the carrots, filling up his bucket of water and making sure Moonshadow’s was full too. He got alfalfa for both of them and also carrots for the black one. He spent an extra minute apologizing to Moonshadow, sure that he understood and then turned to head back to the house.
He crashed against Sylvia, who had materialized out of nowhere while he was interacting with the larger horse, and he reflexively grabbed her tight so she wouldn’t bounce off him and fall down. It was the giggle that told him exactly who it was.
- You’ve been a bad boy, Michael! - She scolded him, not too seriously.
- Shit, Sylvia! I almost run you over! - He frowned.
- You should be glad it wasn’t my mother, or our guys, cause they wouldn’t hesitate to tell Laurie the second she set foot back home from school. - Sylvia said.
- That means you’re hesitating? - Michael smiled knowingly and the answering giggle assured him he was right. - Do you love me…even a little? -
- That’s not fair, Michael, you know you shouldn’t be out of the house, least of all riding! - Sylvia tried to sound threatening, but Michael could see through her easily.
- C’mon…give me a break…- Michael whispered, pressing her to him, knowing what he was doing to her.
- Michael…Michael, let me go! - She struggled uselessly, no match for him.
- Hey, I’m in enough trouble already, Maria is jealous of the nurse that took care of me, but she’s waiting until I can take her punishment. Do you know what she’ll do to me if she finds out I’ve been out here to see the horses? - He was trying to find out how much she had seen, cause he had been too focused on the horses to even sense her.
- You were riding! - She accused. - I was hiding behind the bales of hay and saw you coming back! -
- Sylvia…please? - He whined, biting his lower lip, and the look in her eyes as he watched him do it told him he had her.
Sylvia stopped struggling and Michael could feel her melting into him. He knew it was enough, for the sake of both of them. He gently let go of her and only held her hands in his against his chest.
- Michael, if they find out I saw you and didn’t tell them, I’ll get in trouble. - She frowned.
- No you won’t, cause no one but us knows, and anyway, I’ll say I made you swear not to tell on me. They know how convincing I can be. No sweat! -
Sylvia started giggling again and squeezed his hands.
- I don’t need to say a word for them to find out what you’ve done. - Sylvia grinned.
- What do you mean? - Michael was not totally sure what she was after.
- I think you’ve hurt yourself. . She nodded smugly.
- Oh shit! - Michael felt his ass hot from the ride, but it could also mean Sylvia was right.
He did feel sore but he sensed no real damage, so he thought up a real neat way to find out and tease Sylvia at the same time. He turned around and pulled his pants down, bending over just enough to have her blush furiously.
- Michael! Stop it! What if someone sees? - She said in a funny voice that didn’t sound exactly angry, just pleasantly shocked.
- I’ll tell them you wanted to see and asked me to do it…- He smiled, faking total innocence.
- Ok, ok, I won’t say anything, I promise! - She grabbed his hands and tried to make them pull up his pants faster that he was doing it, so now he giggled and had her worrying.
He felt her hand slide over his and gently touch him, making him shudder not only from the slight pain she caused him. She pulled away quite flustered.
- I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you! - She sounded really contrite.
- It’s ok, it wasn’t so bad. - He whispered, covering himself and turning to face her.
She noticed the way his eyes were shining, detecting the blue streaks that she was sure the weak sun struggling to master the clouds was responsible for. Deep inside her, she knew there was something else to it, and she had to do with it. She wasn’t feeling uncomfortable, rather excited so she decided she was treading dangerous ground, way over her head, and knew it was time to call it off.
- Let’s go back. - She said, and her voice sounded funny even to her.
She could hear Michael was breathing different and hurried away when he took a step towards her. Michael also decided he had gone far enough, and caught up to walk beside her, keeping a safe distance.
- Stay here, if I whistle, it means it’s safe and Mamà is far enough for you to go past the door without her seeing you. - She didn’t wait for his answer and disappeared into the kitchen. Soon after, Michael heard her whistling what he could have sworn was Metallica, so he smirked and hurried back to his room. He reached his bed to flop down, in dire need to rest his body and mind, mostly the last one, from the crazy thoughts that had him shivering with the craving for forbidden pleasures.
“You’re a whore! Back and forth!”
“Shut up Nicholas! Not now, ok? I never meant it to go so far, and that’s as far as it will go. Now let me sleep.” Michael demanded.
“Perfect! Good enough for me! It’s rushing at you Michael, in a collision course; it will be very soon now. You know what I’m talking about, don’t you?” He said.
“I know, I can feel it, you can be sure of that. Now, let me sleep, ok?” Michael asked.
“Sure kid, I’ll be right here with you.” Nicholas answered him.
“You don’t need to.” Michael told him.
“I want to.” Nicholas insisted.
“Ok.”
Michael accepted with a sigh while Nicholas’ surprisingly deft hands massaged his back sending him into a deep slumber and totally exhilarated at the fact that his newly self appointed guardian “angel” actually looked like a gargoyle!
Nicholas’ constantly growing loathing towards his cousin triggered him into boosting up Michael to ensure Khivar’s defeat. He knew the boy respected his enemies, understanding they were also fighting for a cause, just like he was, whether he considered them on the wrong side or simply his enemies. The story of his meeting with Shenti had become legendary, as had been the victory at the famous battle of the flat mountains. Shenti had fought against him and yet when he surrendered, Rath-Michael had demanded he should be treated with respect, as his prisoner. Then Ramthis had offered the man a place in their army and he had accepted. Nicholas had also heard about the incident of the healing at the underground spring, and that Shenti had been chosen to stay with Rath-Michael during the ritual and the aftermath until the next day, quite an honour for someone who had been an enemy. That gave Nicholas some hope, but not much though. Shenti may have fought against Rath-Michael in a fierce battle but as far as he knew, he had not caused the boy any physical damage, while he had not only tortured him twice, killed him, tried to kill him again, tortured him again through the “puppets” he used to kidnap him, and sent him into the claws of his rat of a cousin to be tortured again. Ok, that’s when his hate for Khivar began to escalate with dizzying speed, so he saved Michael from him…would that score for him? He sure hoped so! Michael seemed to be taking it much better than he had expected it. He loved the way he had responded to his hands, and to his presence this few times he had gone to him after explaining his reasons to be there. He didn’t seem in the least surprised of what was going on between him and Khivar, probably from his own experience, and that was definitely good as far as Nicholas was concerned.
About an hour later, Anita went to see if Michael was alright and if he was hungry enough for lunch, since it was past 1:00 pm.
- Michael, Michael! You ok? Are you hungry? Ay dios mio! Mejor llamo al doctor! (Oh my god! I better call the doctor!) -
The words plus the agitated way she said them, registered in Michael’s alien alarm system and made him react before the woman did something he didn’t agree with.
- Anita…I’m fine…just not that hungry yet, I’ll wait for Laurie, ok? I’m just resting, don’t worry. - He slurred in a sleepy voice.
- I’m sorry I woke you up, but I promised Laurie I would see how you were doing during the day. You come down or call me if you’re hungry, alright? - She smiled with relief and hurried out of the room.
Nicholas cursed the woman and had to go back to his own hated life.
Michael stretched and decided he was bored again so he decided to go down and see if he could liven things up a little. He noticed he was still wearing riding boots so he got rid of them and padded downstairs in his socks. He could hear Anita’s voice in the kitchen as he approached the room and paid attention to her words:
- Ya deben estar por comenzar a llegar. Ten cuidado con Elena, ya sabes que al mañoso ese nunca se le siente venir, y te pega cada susto! (They should begin arriving any minute now. Be careful with Elena, you know you never hear that sneaky one coming and he gives you such frights!) -
Michael wondered who Elena was, since it was a female name yet she was referring to it in male terms. He heard Sylvia agree with her mother and start walking out of the kitchen through the other door, the one leading to the pool area. He stalked her very carefully and pounced on her after she entered the big Jacuzzi room.
- Ok, who’s Elena? - He whispered in her ear from her left side.
- Fuck, Michael! You scared the crap out of me! And it’s rude to listen to other people, you know? - Sylvia jumped and covered her mouth not to scream.
- I know, you’re right, sorry, but who’s Elena? - He insisted.
- Oh, you’d like to know, huh? - She teased, smiling.
- You’re going to tell me. - He grinned, sure of himself.
- No way, my mother will kill me if I tell you. - She shook her head.
- Your mother will kill you if I tell her you made me bare my ass for you to see…- He smirked smugly.
- That’s not true, and you know it! I didn’t ask you to, you did it by yourself! - Sylvia went pale, knowing Michael would do it to get his way.
- Who do you think she’ll believe? - He chewed his lip for emphasis.
- No, Michael please don’t, ok, but you’ll have to swear it will stay just between you and me. - She said, seriously.
- Sure, I swear. - Michael nodded.
- No, it’s not that easy. You must swear on what’s most sacred to you, and you have to mean it, or I’ll tell your friends you went riding, and who will they believe? We’re even there, right? - She gave him a cunning toothy grin.
- Ok, ok, I swear on all my friends, you know how much they mean to me, it’s all I have. - Michael sighed dramatically but sincerely.
- It’s Kyle! - Sylvia whispered secretively to Michael, covering a side of her mouth with her cupped hand, in a theatrical gesture.
- Kyle? Why? - Michael exclaimed as Anita shushed him frowning and shaking her hands wildly.
She looked both ways before continuing, making sure no one was around to have heard him.
- Mamá calls him “El enano” (“The dwarf”), you know? So if you take out the last syllable, you get El ena, see? She can mean Kyle and no one will guess she’s talking about him. Mamà hates the way he creeps in on her and scares her. He might think it’s funny but it’s far from it. I don’t like it either. And anyway, Elena could be a friend or relative of ours, no one would suspect who she means. -
- I love your mother! She can be so funny, even without meaning to. - Michael chuckled.
- Yes, she’s got this very special sense of humour! - Sylvia gave just a little giggle, not to attract attention, since the kitchen wasn’t that far away.
- Yeah, quite keen. Sure love it, and her too! Don’t worry you’re both safe here. - Michael assured her.
Right then Anita started hollering for Sylvia and she rushed out gesturing to Michael to stay behind. He took the back stairs to his room and the main ones down to the kitchen so Anita wouldn’t suspect he had already been downstairs.
- Ok, I’m hungry now. What can you fix me? What’s that? - He pointed to a covered bowl in the corner by the mixer.
- It’s “tiradito”. You know, like seviche, the raw fish cooked in my lemons with creamy “ají” instead of onions, and the way you cut the fish is different too, strips instead of chunks. - Anita explained.
- I like fish, why shouldn’t I like it? - Michael wondered.
- The “ají” is rather hot. You’re not used to it. - Anita told him.
- Hey, haven’t you seen me with the Tabasco? C’mon, give me some, or maybe it’s just for you guys…there isn’t enough? I don’t want to…- Michael knew Anita wouldn’t deny him anything, but then maybe someone would end up wanting.
- No, no! There’s a lot! Laurie likes it too! Try it, I hope you like it. - Anita started scooping some for him.
- Haven’t I tried it before? - Michael was sure he had.
- Yes, but that time I made it specially mild for all of you, this is how we like it. - She placed the dish in front of him with a fork.
Michael went for it and wiped it clean in seconds to both women’s surprise.
- Do you want some water? - Sylvia asked, quite amazed.
- Can I have another helping? It’s great! - Michael pushed the dish towards them.
Anita filled the dish again and he ate it slower this time, really tasting and enjoying it. That’s when they heard Rubén arriving with Laurie and she burst into the kitchen to find Michael at the table, eyeing him suspiciously.
- Don’t tell me you ate the whole thing! - Laurie said, a little disappointed.
- I’ve had two helpings, don’t tell me that was all! - Michael turned to Sylvia and Anita who was smiling from ear to ear.
- No, the bowl is full, there’s enough for ten of you! - She teased Michael fondly.
- Whew! - Michael went, relieved, watching Laurie eat and give Anita a thumb up.
- People have the impression it’s very strong and fishy tasting when they hear it’s raw fish only cooked in lemon juice, but it’s like the Japanese sashimi. The fish has to be very fresh and better still, flounder, though “mero” is the best. It’s a huge fish, I think you call it “jewfish” but I’m not sure. That’s why the taste of the fish is mild, yet the “ají” must be strong enough to even it up. - Anita commented, expertly.
- Hey, c’mon guys, have some with us! - Michael waved them over, and after overcoming their shyness, they all ended eating together in the kitchen table. Michael insisted on Sylvia calling Javi on his mobile and soon her quiet husband joined them too. Then they wrapped it up with the pudding made of the purple corn, with chunks of apple, pineapple and quince, plus these little berries Anita called “guindas” with a silent “u” that she grew in her greenhouse too. It was very sweet, with brown sugar and it was the perfect dessert. The “chicha” was made with the same ingredients as the pudding but without the cornstarch, to remain in a liquid state. If it was left to rest a few days, it fermented and became liquor, but it was that very day’s, so it was still mild and sweet, perfect to wash down the fish. As Anita went into a detailed explanation that it could be written “seviche” or “cebiche” and both were considered grammatically correct, the whole gang arrived to also sample the delicacies.
Relaxed and in a great mood after the surprise treats, Maria went to Michael and gave him the kiss she had been dreaming with all day. Michael was caught completely off guard, and was startled when Maria pulled back with a wary look and asked:
- Who’s Irene? -
ALIENS FULL TILT!
-
ñusta
- Obsessed Roswellian
- Posts: 510
- Joined: Thu Nov 11, 2004 10:52 pm
- Location: heights of Machu Picchu
the calm before the storm
Apologies about the date in the edit. I just noticed it was totally weird! I don't know where that came from, it's correct now!
ALIENS FULL TILT!