Chapter 14: Won't Stop Him This Time

It's been a week.

I haven't been outside of Fort Merryweather in a week. I am beginning to feel the crazy coming on, raking it's fingernails through my brain and lungs.

Must get out of here.

Throwing on a shirt with a pixelated heart, soft blue pull over hoodie, my worn in blue jeans-that make my bum look amazing!- and classic black Converse. I scrape my hair back into a high ponytail and then plait it into a thick rope that tickles the bottom of my shoulder blades.

Pushing the door open a crack, holding my breath I wait for a sound. Nothing. Good, time to escape.

I fly down the stairs through the intricate maze of corridors and out the French doors. The cool air whispers across my flushed cheeks, I keep running until I hit the tree line.

Is he here? Do I want him to be here?

I slow to a walk, the dry sticks and leaves crunching under my feet, the only sound in the deadly quiet of the woods.

"What you doing out here Princess?"

The sound of his voice makes so close behind me makes my heart speed up. Clam down Maria, you don't even like him!

"I needed some fresh air," I swivel to see him; he's sat on a tree branch with his leather clad legs swinging lazily. He is looking at me with a sly smile.

"Is that the only reason?" He gracefully jumps down from his perch and stalks forward.

"What other reason is there? Wait... you don't think I'm out here for you, do you? Don't be so cocky!" I suppose a tiny part of me was hoping I'd see him. That part of me is incredibly small, almost nonexistent.

"I'd like to think so, can't stop thinking about our little kiss." A cocky grin forms, but there is a vulnerability in his eyes that makes me feel the need to shiver.

"I... I think I should go home now," Side stepping around him I make it about five steps before I feel a large hand wrap around my elbow, spinning me around to look into some blazing chocolate eyes.

"Maria, can you just admit that at least a part of you is attracted to me? It would make it so much easier to like you if I knew at least a part of you liked me too." His voice is a hushed whisper.

"I-I... only against my better judgment," My words come out rushed as I rip my arm out of his hand.

An arrogant smile conquers his face as he steps forward and wraps an arm around my waist.

"I don't know about that..."

"Well-"

Next thing I know is his lips are on mine in an electrifying kiss.

I won't stop him this time.