Chapter 7: Renaissance Festival
I love the autumn. It is the best season as the cooler air blows in off the ocean and at least a few of the trees turn vibrant colors. Okay, sure, most of them stay pretty green year round and we never have what you might call winter exactly but still; it's the best. And the best part of it? The Renaissance Festival up at the Castle. Now you think I'm a dork probably but I love any excuse to dress up and relive a bit of history - complete with festival food like turkey legs.
And this year I wasn't just going as a visitor - I was in the cast! The Festival has strict age rules due to the long hours on the weekends but I was seventeen now and had been cast as one of the princesses!
Which meant I walked around a lot and attended shows as an 'official royal family member'. Most shows would work whoever showed up into the skit; which meant Festival goers would recognize us when we walked around during the day. I was thrilled!
Better than that, James was working the Festival as well for credit for some class. I was sure it would be a great opportunity to spend time together. And put Erik totally and completely out of my mind. Totally.
------
"Now good folks!" James bellowed across the small field. "Our fair Princess Genevieve has come to partake of the sport - who will join me to entertain her Highness?"
The assembled crowd chuckled but no one volunteered.
"Come now, surely there is a brave knight amongst you!" James said. "Or are you all lasses?"
I snickered, James was always good at goading some guy into a challenge.
"I must apologize your Highness." he said, kneeling before me and kissing my hand. "None of these gentlemen are up to the challenge." he smiled at me before turning back to the crowd. "A disappointment to be sure."
"I'll do it." someone spoke up from the back of the crowd.
"I do believe our luck has changed Princess!" James said standing. He scanned the crowd for the owner of the voice. "Come good sir! Her Highness demands entertainment and sport!"
I saw him before James did. I suppressed the groan well enough as Erik strode confidently to the field.
"Ah, yes, I think you will do nicely." James said with a cocky grin. He turned to the audience and lifted his arms. "A cheer for Sir Erik!" he bellowed. The crowd dutifully cheered as a page ushered Erik to a small changing station to put on a bit of padding and a basic costume. They would also give him a few brief instructions on the fighting - a fight with blunt swords.
James entertained the crowd with a few jokes while we waited for Sir Erik to return. When he did; James called for another cheer from the crowd as always. "For the Crown!" James bellowed.
"For the Princess." Erik said quietly, looking my direction. He smiled at me one last time.
And then the duel began.
I jumped to my feet more than once and I'm sure I shielded my eyes. I'd played with the blunted swords before and knew they were perfectly safe but I couldn't help but cringe.
Erik was good - I'm not sure where he learned to fence or stage fight but I could tell from the look on James's face that he was really having to work at this one. Usually he had to fake being challenged by the opponent. Most of the men who challenged him were ready for a fist fight and had no idea what to do with a sword other than swing it wildly.
James often gave in; for the good of the show and to keep the challengers happy - he was an actor after all. But I knew he wouldn't give in to Erik unless Erik soundly beat him. The audience let out many oohs and awws as the duel continued. It wasn't until James managed to disarm Erik, sending the sword into the grass several feet away that Erik conceded. In spite of his loss, the crowd jumped to their feet in applause and James encouraged them. Shifting his sword to the other hand he and Erik shook hands. The rest of James's show was tame in comparison but I remained until the end. I gave him a quick kiss before walking through the crowd. It took me fifteen minutes and several pictures to get free of them.
"You know, that wasn't a 'Me Tarzan, You Jane' thing..." Erik said from behind me.
"What?" I asked, very confused.
"Two years ago; first day of school - Todd and I fought over you and you told me not do the Tarzan thing again. I wanted to assure you that..." he motioned toward the field where James had started another show. "That wasn't a Tarzan thing. He just seemed to need a challenger."
"Right, okay." I said looking back at the fountain. "You were good. Did you taking dueling lessons before too?" I asked.
"No, but I've done some stage fighting before. Not as much as James it would seem but enough I guess." Erik said.
"You know you're supposed to give that back." I said, motioning toward his costume.
"Yeah I know, I just kind of liked it." Erik grinned. I couldn't help but laugh then. "I love that laugh." he said a little sad.
"You look good as a knight." I said. "I better get back to being Princess Genevieve. Don't forget to return the costume." As I walked past him, our hands brushed each other.
I couldn't help but look at him then, to really see him there; as much as I'd tried to push him from my mind, there he was. It took every fiber of my being not to grab his hand with mine and to keep walking. But I did. "Can't have both." I said softly. Erik may have heard me because he looked at me curiously, but I didn't wait to see if he would question me.
I retreated into the Castle. There were parts of the Festival that happened indoors but most things were outside so I was happy to find the throne room empty. As I sunk into the chair, I couldn't help but think of the Halloween party that had happened in this very room last year. Where I'd first met James.
"Ginny?" Nai'a said, having just poked her head in the room.
I looked over at her wearily. "Hey Nai'a" I said with very little enthusiasm. Nai'a sat in the throne next to me. "How's Timothy?" I asked. I knew that since he's mom's death, he and Nai'a had gotten closer.
"Coping." she said. "I think he'll be okay; his father isn't handling it so well."
I nodded. I was sure I should say something more but I just couldn't figure out what it was.
"How are you?" Nai'a asked after a few minutes of silence.
"Um, tired." I said lamely.
"Of juggling two guys?" Nai'a said with a grin.
"I'm not juggling two guys." I defended myself with as much fervor as I could muster. "I kind of wish I was..."
"I don't think James and Erik are the sharing type." Nai'a said.
"Yeah, that's the problem." I said with a chuckle. "I could come up with a schedule...at least until James leaves."
"When is that?" Nai'a asked.
"December." I said. "Then....well I don't know what happens then."
"I think you know what will happen." Nai'a said. "Look, I don't know your relationship with Erik that well; but it's clear that when James isn't in the picture there's some chemistry between you two. If James is gone off to Yale....he'll be out of the picture pretty permanently; not just on the other side of town."
"And then Erik and I would..." I trailed off following her line of thought. If James wasn't here - chances are Erik and I would eventually get together some way or another.
"Right; and James seems like a great guy - you don't want to hurt him like that...." Nai'a said. She turned toward the door and looked confused. "Did you just hear the door close?"
"Yeah." I said looking around. The throne room was empty now, maybe someone had been lost and just opened it and then left again. I shrugged it off. "So you think I should break up with James before he leaves?"
"I'm just sayin' - you're not the cheating type but you and Erik...seems like it's gonna happen whether you want it to or not." Nai'a said. She grinned then. "And I'm pretty sure you want it to....at least a bit."
I chuckled, I couldn't deny that. "Thanks Nai'a" I said. "I miss having a girl friend around."
"No problem girlie." Nai'a said. "Looks like it's coming on sunset, better get outside Princess." she said with a laugh.
"You're right!" I said. I hurried out of the room and went up to the roof of the Castle. There would be fireworks just after sunset and most of the fair goers and cast came up to the roofs to watch them over the ocean.
"I've been looking for you." James said, placing a hand on my waist.
"I was in the throne room." I said. "Remembering last Halloween when I met the mysterious mobster." I said with a smile.
"I remember that night. There was the pretty, but sullen, Queen." James said with a smile.
"Yes, I was pretty." I teased.
"Ginny." James said, sounding serious again. "I love you and I would like to stay with you in spite of the challenges." I started to say something but he put his finger to my lips. "But I don't think that's what you want." he said softly.
I was stunned and I'm sure my mouth was hanging open. He pulled my hand to his mouth and kissed it softly.
"As much as I love you; I'm pretty your heart belongs to someone else right now." James said.
"I'm so sorry." I said as tears stung my eyes. "Nothing happened since we started dating...."
"I know that Ginny, you wouldn't do that." he said. "I want you to be happy and I don't think I'm it for you at this point."
That was it, he was giving me up because I was too much of a chicken to do it myself. I started crying then and then tears wouldn't stop. James wrapped his arms around me once more and held me closely while I cried.
We watched the sun descend on the ocean; but all I saw was the water in my own eyes.
"Do me one favor?" he whispered into my ear. I nodded because I didn't trust myself to speak. "Wait until I'm gone."
End Chapter
Chapter 4: Student Elections
"Overall, you're doing well." Nai'a said as she looked over the notebook. In being introduced by Timothy, she'd fallen into the group in the midst of the election and volunteered to help out. "Veronica isn't really campaigning for herself so much as smearing you and your friends."
"What does she gain from smearing my friends?" Timothy asked, mostly to himself.
Nai'a shrugged. "Nothing really as far as the campaigning - but the rumors about you...." she trailed off.
"What?" Timothy asked. "What is she saying?"
"Well...I'm not sure you want to know..." Nai'a stalled. She was grateful when their drinks arrived and she was able to avoid his questioning look for a few minutes. "She's implying that you may have....hit her, when you were dating." Nai'a glanced over at Timothy and saw he was clearly startled. "And she is dragging Bella into it."
"Did Bella say as much?" Timothy asked.
"No!" Nai'a said quickly. "She has never actually confirmed it - but she's not denying anything so she may as well have as far as Veronica is concerned."
"Wow." Timothy said simply.
"You must be so angry with her." Nai'a said. "I know I would be!"
"Not angry - disappointed." Timothy replied.
"In who?" I asked, approaching the table with James. "Sorry, didn't intend to overhear." I added quickly.
Nai'a looked at Timothy to reply, when he didn't even look at her, she turned toward me. "Veronica." she said with an eye roll.
"Ah, news from the front then?" I asked as I pulled out the menu and skimmed it, giving Nai'a most of my attention since I knew the menu already. "What is it this week?"
"Her campaign is a smear campaign?" James interrupted. We all nodded in response. Unlike James, we'd been hearing the lies, rumors and catching the glances every day for the last two weeks. "Nothing about issues?"
"It's high school...we don't really have issues" I said with a smile. "Least not that Student Council can solve."
Everyone chuckled then. "True I suppose but it can still be more than a popularity contest. Student Council does important stuff." James replied. "Will there be a debate?"
"Yes, on Thursday all the contested races have the chance for a debate. Friday is the vote." Timothy said. "You're a debater, a very good one according to Genevieve," James smiled at me and I smiled back a little sheepishly; yeah I'd bragged a little bit. "Any suggestions?" Timothy said drawing my attention back.
James was off and running with things about what to wear, what to say, what not to say and I admit, I tuned him out. I found myself scanning the diner until I saw Erik behind the counter and waved at him. He half waved back before I saw his attention focused elsewhere. Following his line of sight, I saw Mei-Ling walk in. Followed closely by Todd.
"Freedom?" I said when the pair approached our table.
"Freedom" Todd said with a goofy grin I'd missed seeing on his face.
"With provisions." Mei-Ling chimed in; a cloud of sadness of some sort passed over her face for a moment. From what Todd had told me, she had yelled at him in Chinese for close to an hour when he'd told her what had happened last year. Still, she'd ultimately forgiven him and was now holding his hand firmly, as if afraid to let go of him again.
Timothy, Nai'a and James were still deep in election talk; I'm not sure they'd even seen Todd and Mei-Ling, let alone acknowledged them. I attempted to let James know I was going to order and he murmured some sort of acknowledgment but kept talking to Timothy. I chuckled as I walked up to the counter.
"Hey Gin." Erik said, giving me a smile - a shadow of the smile I so loved on him. It was strained; glancing over toward James I suspected I knew why. "What can I get for you?"
"Um, two burgers, fries and two sodas please." I said. He busied himself with the order just a few feet away. I could have returned to the table but with one look I knew they were still talking election strategy.
James was in his element and his face was animated the more he spoke. I continued to watch them while Erik was getting our order. "He's gonna be great one day." I said quietly, to myself mostly.
"Hmm?" Erik asked turning toward me.
I waved it off. "Nothing, talking to myself is all."
"You should be careful with that, people will think you're crazy." Erik teased.
I chuckled. "I wouldn't doubt it." I said.
"These fries will be a few minutes, I can bring them to your table if you like." Erik said.
"Nah, I'll wait. They're talking about the election and campaign strategy." I said.
"Ah, not your thing." Erik said. He leaned on the counter across from me. "How are you Gin?"
"I'm okay, everyone has forgotten about the Bart rumors since V has kept the rumor mill going." I said. I glanced around the diner to avoid too much direct eye contact with Erik. In doing so I noticed several people looking out direction but as soon as they saw me glance their way, they'd turn quickly.
"Order up." Erik said, dragging my attention away from the curious onlookers. What had V done now? I reach for the plates and our hands grazed.
"Thanks Erik." I said, pushing the rest of the diner occupants from my mind.
"No problem." he said and turned his attention back to the soda machine. James came over then, having broken off the conversation with Timothy long enough to realize I couldn't carry everything in one trip.
We took an empty table, away from Timothy and election talk, to my great relief. "Sorry about that." James said looking embarrassed. "I think I got a bit distracted."
I smirked. "A bit." I teased. "But if it helps Tim's election, it's all good." I added. James gave me his attention for the rest of the meal and I tried to ignore the tingling sensation on my neck that told me I was being watched.
At my door after our date, James lingered longer than normal. His college classes would be starting next week which meant our time together would be cut down more. "I'm sorry about this."
"About what?" I asked confused, as he'd said it out of the blue.
"The weekend classes, not being able to spend time together." James replied.
"Don't be sorry James, you're doing what is needed for you to graduate - nothing wrong with that." I felt like I was lying to him as I said. I didn't really blame him for what he was doing but I still felt abandoned a bit.
"Okay..." he sound as unconvinced as I was but he dropped the subject. He gave me another lingering kiss before wishing me good night.
-----
It was Thursday before I found out why everyone in the Diner had been watching me. Halfway to class, Erik walked up to me and hijacked my path, leading me into an empty stairwell. "You should know what the latest rumor is." he said quickly; glancing over the railing to see if anyone was on the stairs below.
I cringed. "Oh no, what now?" I asked pinching the bridge of my nose.
"That you are cheating on your boyfriend James....with me." Erik said. He leaned against the rail and seemed to focus his gaze on his feet.
"Oh no she didn't...." my eyes were wide and my cheeks flamed with heat immediately. I headed for the door so fast, Erik had to scramble to stop me. His firm arm held me back from going after V for another pointless confrontation.
"It won't do any good but to fuel her on Gin." Erik said softly. He held on to me until I stopped trying to resist. "James doesn't go to school here, there's no reason for him to hear and even if he does - he trusts you."
"Right. Right. I'm sure you're right...." I muttered. "I better get to class...." I opened the door to the stair well and paused.
"Gin?" Erik asked when I stopped. "You okay?"
"Yeah." I said not looking at him. "Thanks....for telling me." I glanced back over his shoulder and smiled weakly. I left finally and hoped I didn't run into Veronica. Well, honestly, part of me hoped I did run into her.
At the debate assembly that afternoon, I couldn't help but glare at her instead of paying attention to the words being exchanged.
"You can't promise people more school vacations Veronica!" Timothy said loudly, drawing my attention towards him. He was obviously growing frustrated with her.
In response she merely shrugged and grinned. "Why not?"
"Because it's not something the student council has any say over." Timothy said. "If you'd ever been a member of Student Council you would know that."
"According to the handbook, the student council assists in setting the school calendar..." Veronica retorted.
"The social calendar - events such as school dances, pep rallies, parties, spirit week. The district school board determines holidays - which have already been determined for this school year." Timothy replied, I could tell he was trying not to yell or laugh at her.
Veronica made a lame excuse and a joke that garnered a handful of laughs from the crowd. The rest of the debate went about the same. Veronica was generally making a mockery of the whole election but considering the student body was fairly apathetic toward the whole process, her jokes may actually win their votes over Timothy's serious approach.
Just as the debate ended, I could sense that Timothy was restless. When he hurried away from the crowd with his cell phone in hand I couldn't help but wonder what was up. I waited a respectable distance from him, under the pretense of wishing him congrats for the debate until he was done but I didn't have a chance to say anything. When he turned off the phone and look toward me, I could see his eyes were damp with unshed tears and sadness was etch across his entire body. "Tim?" I said softly.
"Ginny..." he said, it was probably the only time he'd ever called me by a nickname and I knew something had really rattled him. He stared through me for several moments before speaking. "Can I have a ride somewhere?" he said simply.
"Sure Tim...anywhere you need...." I said. "What's up...."
Ten minutes later I parked the car and Timothy jumped out of the car and ran toward the building. I scrambled out of the car as well, locking it with a click as I followed.
Inside, I nearly ran into him as he'd stopped a few feet inside the doors, seemingly unable to move any further. I put my hand in his and gave it a good squeeze so he knew I was there.
End Chapter
Chapter 5: Tragedy and Triumph
Timothy walked awkwardly toward the room in which his mother slept. She was hooked up to a half dozen machines that I could see and was pale as a sheet. Her chest was rising and falling in the steady rhythm supplied by one of the machines. I choked back my own tears as I watch Timothy slowly open the door and walk in the room.
I blinked away tears as Timothy reached out his hand to touch her. Looking around the hospital to distract myself, I spotted Mr. Kline slumped against the admissions desk. I remembered many summer days spent at the Kline's. Todd, Veronica, Timothy and I would spend the morning swimming in their pool and Mrs. Kline would have lemonade and cookies waiting for us. As soon as we were done; we were off again. When Mr. Kline came home from work - he would play games with us and read to us and finally take us all home so we could do it all again the next day.
I took another look at Timothy and then walked over to Mr. Kline. I didn't have the words so I place my hand on his and simply stood beside him. "Oh little Ginny, you have grown up haven't you?" he said with a weak smile. "All you kids have." He put his arm around my shoulder and we hugged. I'd always imagined the Klines as an extra set of grandparents.
I waited for Timothy to come out of the room; even though Mr. Kline assured me I could go home. I left while Timothy and his father were comforting each other. When I got home, my dad was waiting with a cup of hot chocolate and open arms. Somehow he always knew when I would need comforting most. Must be a dad thing. "I don't know what to say to him - you'd think I would..." I said.
My dad had his arms around me and held me close. "You don't necessarily have to say anything Ginny, just be there for him." I cried myself to sleep that night as Mrs. Kline's face and my mom's face swam in my mind.
The next morning, I stopped by the hospital on the way to school to check on Timothy. I noticed he had on fresh clothes but the bags under his eyes betrayed him. "Have you slept?"
Timothy looked up at me, startled by my presence. "No."
I sat down next to him and put my hand on his. "How is she?"
"Dying." Timothy said simply. "I never knew my real parents; it never really occurred to me to look for them. I've only ever known these people as my family and now..." he trailed off and tears sparkled in his eyes.
"I'm so sorry Tim." I said putting my arm around him.
-----
The morning of the funeral, Timothy had come to school for first period - no one said he had to but school work gave him focus he said. I'd arranged with Mr. Kline to get Tim from school to the cemetery along with Todd and Meghan. I couldn't help but feel Veronica's absence as we walked out of the school together; in elementary school it had always been the four of us and even if she no longer liked the rest of us - Mrs. Kline has been a grandmother to her as well.
"Wait! Timothy!" Veronica voice rang out and I heard her rapid footsteps before any of us turned. Todd and I moved aside since she seemed to want to talk to Timothy.
"I wanted to say how sorry I am." Veronica said softly.
"I swear, if she does something to upset him, I'm gonna finish what I started" I whispered to Todd.
Todd raised an eyebrow, "I don't think even V would cross that line - not today anyway." he replied although he didn't sound certain.
"What's going on? I've been waiting by the car?" Meghan asked from behind us. Her eyes followed our gaze. "Oh..."
When they were done, Veronica turned back toward the school. "You could come with us." I called toward Veronica. "To the funeral...."
Veronica turned back toward me and we locked gazes for several moments. I saw the conflict pass over her face. Part of her wanted to be there; for Timothy, for us, for the Klines.
"No." she said mostly to herself. She was sad as she turned from us again and walked into the school.
Erik and Nai'a met us at the cemetery. Neither had really known Mrs. Kline but had come to support Timothy mostly. There was a crowd of people, many of them parents of my fellow students, even a couple of the teachers.
At Timothy's request, I sat next to him during the service. He reached for my hand several times as if to assure himself that I was still there. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the area of the cemetery where my own mother was buried.
The rest of us returned to school just before lunch. Timothy had said he would be back for the rest of the day but we all suggested he just take the day off.
"Think he'll be back today?" Todd ventured at lunch.
"He said something about the science test." I said quietly.
"Coach Johnson would let him do a makeup." Todd argued.
"Yeah but it's Tim." I said with a weak smile. "Tim doesn't miss tests...."
The others chuckled - it was true; Timothy was all about school and had come to school once with a raging fever because of a math test. He'd gone home as soon as it was over.
None of us were surprised to see Timothy walk into our fourth period science class following lunch. His eyes were red and a bit puffy but he was there. Nai'a put a comforting arm around him as he sat at their table. Coach Johnson walked through the tables as we worked and while passing Tim's chair, he put a comforting hand on his shoulder before walking on.
Most everyone finished the test with a few minutes to spare and the din of noise was rising in the classroom. Coach didn't try to silence us since all the tests had been handed in.
Just before the bell was supposed to ring, Principal Watts voice came over the loud speaker. "We'd like to take a moment to announce the results of our Student Council elections..." the noise in the room came to an immediate stop and just about everyone turned to look at Tim for a moment before turning back to the speaker.
The Freshman and Sophomore class results were announced first. "...Veronica Meyers withdrew from the Junior Class Vice President election this morning so your junior class vice president will be Timothy Kline..." The classroom erupted in a loud cheer which drowned out the rest of the announcement. Most of the class converged on Timothy to congratulate him.
Over their heads I could see the pain in his eyes but he smiled for everyone anyway.
End Chapter
Chapter 11
The cool, salty breeze coming off the ocean surrounded her as she stood at the edge of cliff. Below, in contrast to the deep sense of calmness she felt, harsh ocean waves beat against the rocks. Even as high as she was, a fine mist occasionally enveloped her. The glittery blue of the water was breathtaking.
And it was all an illusion.
Freya knew, deep in the back of her mind, that she couldn't really be standing on this cliff. She knew she didn't own a dress like the one she was wearing. She knew she hadn't stepped foot on the surface of a planet since she was twelve.
And yet she could feel the mist from ocean. She could feel the rocks under her bare feet. She could smell the salt in the area. She even shivered as a particularly cold blast of air brushed across her skin.
Freya frowned, wanting to rationalize what she was seeing and feeling with what she knew to be fact.
"Why so sad sweets?" he asked from behind her. His hand slipped into hers. Julian's voice, Julian's hand.
"This isn't real." Freya said.
"It's real somewhere; it real in here." he said placing a hand over her heart.
"Am I dreaming?" she asked.
"Probably." he said simply. "Why are you so sad Freya?"
"I'm not sad." Freya protested.
"Yes you are. I know you well enough to know when you're sad." Julian said with a familiar smirk on his face. "There's something...out there..." he motioned toward the horizon but she knew he meant outside this little dream world. "Something is making you sad, or frightened?"
"I'm fine. Just hold me?" she asked leaning into his arms. He wrapped them around her and together they watched as the sky turned pink and orange. She didn't see when he left, she never even felt his arms leave her but there she was, alone. The fear and sadness and anger and frustration beat against her much like the water below beat against the rocks.
"What were you thinking?!" a female voice broke through the haze of Freya's dream. It sounded miles away from her but Freya turned her attention toward the voice, trying to hear over the noise of the ocean.
Freya was sure someone else was with the woman, probably replied to her outburst but Freya couldn't hear the reply; she just knew he was there.
"You!" the female voice again. "Go get Meng, he's going to be pissed." Freya's dream faded into nothingness as she started to wake up. She stayed still and kept her eyes closed in case they were watching her. She heard the quick footsteps of whoever the woman had sent away.
There was silence between the two - Freya knew there were still two people in the room. Somewhere in the distance, she could hear the sound of running water but that made little sense. She opened her eye just enough to get a look around the room, keeping herself as still as she could on the cold metal. She recognized both of them instantly - from the broadcast by the Sons of Liberty. The male was looking smug and the female paced the room fuming. She shot occasional daggers at the man.
Freya closed her eyes. The woman had not been one of her captors but the smug male was probably the rougher of the two. Again, Freya heard the sound of liquid running, it echoed above the room followed by the occasional churn of machinery. She was trying to determine the significance when the loud clank of a metal door reverberated through the room. She kept herself still as the two - yes there were two - people entered the space.
She could feel people closing in on her and tried to feign sleep. A pair of warm fingers pressed against her neck - to ascertain she was alive. Before he could remove his fingers, the smug male piped up from the back of the room. "I didn't kill her - she's perfectly fine."
"You're an idiot Brian." a new voice replied; he was very close to her, probably belonged to the man with the fingers on her neck. It was familiar to Freya and surprisingly calm. He removed his fingers and the air cleared as the people surrounding her moved away. "You were supposed to escort her, not kidnap her!" Meng said; she was sure this was Meng - the leader, or spokesperson anyway, of the Sons of Liberty.
"She's here isn't she?" Brian replied, his voice still smug. They continued to argue and Freya decided it was as good a time as any to 'wake up'. Slowly sitting up, they didn't notice her at first but Brian saw her first. "And she's awake. Finally."
For the first time, Freya wondered just how long she'd been here. Had she missed her duty shift? Had anyone noticed she was gone? She only had a moment to consider these things as the trip from the broadcast surrounded her.
-----
"Julian!" Andy exclaimed. She was growing frustrated with his disinterest. "Are you hearing what I'm saying?"
"You found Freya's data pad and want me to give it to her, I get it Andy." Julian said rolling his eyes. "She hasn't been by all day but I'm sure she'll come by eventually." he voice was a mix of anger and sadness as he thought about Freya. Why hadn't she come by yet? He'd been ready to apologize for his behavior but then she didn't come...
"No!" Andy cried.
"You don't want me to give it to her?" Julian asked confused.
"Yes I do but that's not what I'm saying Julian!" Andy said, pinching the bridge of her nose with her fingers. "She's not in her quarters, she's not in the ward, she's not on the Deck, she's not here - I can't find her."
"Maybe she doesn't want to be found." Julian said.
Andy rolled her eyes. "This is Freya we're talking about, you and work are her life - when she's stressed about you she works, when she's stressed about work she comes to you and she isn't in either of those places."
"You're point?" he asked.
"She's missing!" Andy exclaimed.
-----
"I must apologize for the method in which you were brought to see us Doctor." Meng said, offering his hand to help Freya stand.
Brian scoffed behind him. "Well you didn't want her knowing one of our hideouts did you? She'd go back to tell the Captain or security...."
Meng held up a hand to silence Brian, to his credit Brian shut up. "You needn't have bothered." Freya said, "I know where I am." she said calmly. Brian looked suspicious; Meng looked surprised.
"Do tell." Meng offered.
Freya pointed toward the ceiling but didn't actually look up. "This is one of the old water filtration units - stopped being used about thirty years ago when newer systems were installed - directly above them. There were two, one was recycled into a cargo bay. This one, deck 2, section A - was not ever really used for anything else since then. I also remember ninety percent of the trip here in a blindfold, I imagine Brian there knocked me out with an injection once they were in an area that no one would see them carrying me unconscious."
Meng was impressed, that much was clear. "Very good Doctor - how did you know?"
"I have a good memory." Freya said by way of explanation.
Brian rolled his eyes. "She's just going to run back and tell them exactly where to find us Meng! We need to deal with her now!"
"I'm not in the business of killing." Meng said simply. "Although he raises an interesting point Doctor. Why tell us that you know so much?"
Brian stalked away from them before Freya could reply. She followed his movements for a moment before turning her attention back to Meng.
"I am tasked with getting your trust, I could have kept it a secret, returned to the Captain, told him everything and ended the problem - except it wouldn't have and you know that. There are four of you here - or there were, I'm not sure where the boy went. A raid from security would have escalated the problem; renewed violence would have broken out and a lot of people would have been hurt or died. All in order to free you, the leader of this group. I have no doubt that there are a small cells of the Sons all over the ship. Even you probably don't know all their identities." Freya said. "So now you know that I know. I have given up any value in the information. If you decide to trust me, you can stay here and continue to use it as a hide out; if not, you can leave long before I could ever reach the Captain."
Meng sat back in his chair, considering the doctor's observations. "You're very smart Doctor."
"Yes." Freya said simply. "So are you, you'll leave after whatever this is ends. You will erase all evidence of being here - just in case. You may want to trust me, but you don't - not yet. I don't blame you really. You have many lives to consider. So do I, which is why I didn't struggle or raise any sort of alarm when your men took me. The violence has to stop. That's why I'm here isn't it?"
"Yes." Meng said still in thought. "Hmm, you are....unexpected."
-----
Andy finally convinced Julian that Freya's absence was more than her just hiding herself for several hours. So together they faced Commander Bonwick. "She's missing Commander." Andy bit her tongue to keep her tone in check.
"Has she missed a duty shift?" Bonwick asked.
"Not that I'm aware of." Andy replied, Julian merely shrugged. Andy wanted to smack him for his apparent lack of concern about Freya's well-being.
"Then she's not missing." Bonwick replied.
"What?!" Andy asked startled. "She can't be found, and this is a spaceship - there's only so many places she could be!"
"We have protocol Lieutenant." Bonwick said. "If she misses a duty shift, the situation changes and it will be given the appropriate priority." she said with a sick smile.
"Meaning?" Julian spoke up for the first time.
"I'm sure you know Mr. Ice." Bonwick replied.
"You mean because she's 'only an embryotic' you won't look for her." Andy said, catching her drift.
"Of course we will, but there are other matters that may take precedence of course." Bonwick said. "Good day." she added and turned her attention away from them.
Julian turned from her in annoyance and almost rolled right over one of the nurses in doing so. "Commander Bonwick?" she said getting the security chief's attention. "Doctor Ryan didn't report for her duty shift..."
End Chapter
Chapter 12
The silence in the room felt thick as Freya and Meng observed each other. "You asked for this meeting, I believe now is when you speak." Freya said, breaking the silence. She focused her attention on Meng but couldn't help but notice Brian scowl or the surprised look on Lana's face.
"I agree with you." Meng said. "The violence has to end. The bombings weren't supposed to hurt anyone - merely make a statement."
"A show of force." Freya said. "And I imagine to show that you could circumvent security. Nothing more irritating to Commander Bonwick than not being able to catch a criminal - except perhaps not being able to catch an embryotic criminal."
Meng nodded to acknowledge her statements as truth. "That statement being made - we want peace as much as you do."
"What are your objectives?" Freya asked. "What do you hope to accomplish?"
"Freedom, equality..." Meng said before Freya cut him off.
"You're going to have to be more specific than that. The Council would argue that no real restrictions on movement are placed on embryotic or Quuvarii - though the security check points are more numerous in the lower decks - no one is stopped without due cause." she said.
"And you accept that?" Meng asked, for a fraction of a second doubt crossed over his face before being replaced with his typical calm.
"The Council is the only entity that can give you what you want - what I believe, what I accept is irrelevant. I'm merely telling you what arguments you will face if you gain an audience." Freya kept her face impassive.
"Then why are you even here!?" Brian rushed forward, slamming his hands hard into the table. His body was tense and his face was creased with anger.
Freya turned her gaze from Meng to Brian just as Meng stood to push Brian back. "I'm here Brian Garrett..." she paused a moment as all three looked at her in shock. "Because he requested me." she concluded motioning toward Meng. "Perhaps you should ask him."
"And perhaps you should tell me how you know who I am!" Brian shouted.
"Brian Garrett, parents George and Annabelle; both first generation embryotics. George Garrett was a respected member of the maintenance crew until last year when he died in an engineering accident. You have two siblings, both younger." Freya watched as the anger just about radiated from his body. "And you broke you leg two years ago. I've seen your medical record - before it, your parents' and your siblings' records all vanished from the system. I checked - after I saw you on the broadcast." Freya turned toward Meng, who still looked startled though she could tell he was trying to get his normally calm visage back. "How did you do that anyway?"
Brian pushed past Meng's outstretched arm and got in Freya's face. "It's not any of your business...Doctor! And if you tell anyone..."
Freya didn't flinch, even when their noses almost touched due to proximity. "Mr. Garrett, I don't care who you are; I don't care about who your family is. If I was of a mind to tell Commander Bonwick who they were, I would have already and they would all be sitting in the brig right now in an effort to lure you out of hiding."
"Brian! Back off." Meng said physically pulling him away from Freya. "Take a walk." he said shoving him toward the door. He turned his attention back to Freya. "You're full of surprises Doctor; if I were you, I wouldn't provoke Brian."
"He's a liability. He doesn't see things the same way you do." Freya said, still watching the doorway that Brian had left from.
"Do you? See things the way I do?" Meng asked.
"As I said, that's irrelevant. I have no sway with the Council, so I'm not the one you need to convince." Freya said.
"True - but let's consider it a mutual exchange of ideas. Humor me." he said with just the barest hint of a smirk.
"I can appreciate your cause; the prejudice, segregation and discrimination on this ship is abhorrent. Your methods - even as a statement - will not win you favor though. In fact, you have damage control you need to do." Freya said. "As it stands, you are feared by those that should support you and you are merely an annoying itch to those you wish to reach."
-----
"There you go! She's missed a duty shift! NOW will you look for her?" Andy pushed, smiling appreciatively at the confused nurse.
"As I said; it will get the appropriate attention it deserves." Bonwick said.
"It?! SHE; Commander...SHE is a person!" Julian snarled. If he could have risen, he would have stood and towered over her; as it was, he couldn't and he hated himself for it.
"If you are unsatisfied with method in which we give priority, you can take it up with the Captain or the Council." Bonwick said with a sick, twisted smile.
"Believe me, I will!" Andy said before storming out of the office, followed closely by Julian and the nurse. Nurse White left them and Andy turned toward Julian. "Do you think your Aunt would help at all? Ya know, put some pressure on Bonwick?"
Julian looked at her surprised. "My Aunt doesn't like that I'm dating Freya, I don't think she would go out of her way..."
"Would she do it for you? She's a Council member! If I can get to Captain Hunt and you can get your Aunt - maybe Bonwick will actually DO something instead of just sit there looking pleased."
"I'll talk to her." Julian looked dismayed at the prospect of talking to his Aunt about Freya.
"Fine, then I'll go find Captain Hunt - he seems to like Freya, maybe he can fire a torpedo under Bonwick." Andy said; before Julian could reply, she hurried away from him, in search of Captain Hunt, leaving Julian to track down his Aunt.
-----
They'd been talking for well over an hour and Freya could feel it and the sleep on the cold metal bench in her body. She shifted in the chair only as much as she had to. Brian had returned and appeared to have calmed down but Freya didn't want to give any of them a sign of weakness.
"Why don't we take a break?" Meng said just about the time Freya was going to have to come up with an excuse to stand and walk around a bit. You can get cleaned up a bit if you like."
"Of course." Freya said. "I can go back to my quarters, check in with the Ward, I'm sure I've missed a shift by now." she saw Brian shift his weight awkwardly. "Be back in a hour?"
"You'll understand if I send someone with you to make sure you don't come knocking with a security team - an hour doesn't give us much time to relocate after all." Meng said. She knew that he hadn't planned on having her return to her quarters then but didn't seem to want to alarm her.
"Of course." Freya said. "I have no intention of doing such a thing but I can understand your concern" she said. "You, I'm sure, will understand if I ask for a different escort than before." she looked over at Brian, who she knew had been the rougher of the pair that had nabbed her before. "Perhaps the boy..." she said.
"Boy?" Meng looked questioningly at Lana, who whispered in his ear. "Ah yes. I don't see that as a problem." he nodded to Lana who disappeared through the door. They passed a few minutes in silence when Lana returned and nodded to Meng. "Your escort awaits Doctor." he motioned for the door.
Freya didn't look surprised when she saw Ash waiting for her on the other side of the door. They walked in silence through the bowels of the ship. There were quicker paths to her quarters but she imagined he'd be instructed to keep her out of sight so no one stopped them along the way to ask questions. When Ash stopped in front of a door, they weren't in front of her quarters. "Does he know you tried to release me that night?" Freya asked.
Ash's eyes were wide with shock. "How did you...?"
"Your voice." Freya responded. "These aren't my quarters Ash." she changed the subject to his evident relief.
"Your roommate may have seen you, asked questions about where you'd been." Ash said, pressing his hand to the door pad. A bright green glow emanated from the device as it scanned him and then the door slid open for them. "There's a shower, some clothes and I can get some food for you if you like."
Freya took in the surroundings as she considered her situation. She didn't think she was being held captive - not exactly anyway. Others would worry though. Had Andy or Julian noticed she was gone, had the Captain? Or had Meng informed him that she was safe? "Food would be appreciated." Freya said scooping up the set of clothes on the table and disappearing into the small bedroom with adjoining bathroom. She felt odd being out of her uniform during 'diplomatic talks'. Ash had a selection of fruits and a sandwich waiting for her when she emerged. As hungry as she should have been, she merely pecked at the food before indicating to Ash that she was ready to leave. He took her back to their previous location but a completely different route; perhaps hoping to disorient her so she couldn't ever find those small, hidden quarters again.
-----
Once they were seated across from each other, the silence from earlier resumed. Each side was watching the other, waiting for the other to say or do something. Meng was expecting some comment about not being returned to her quarters while Freya wasn't entirely sure what to expect. "You know what I think?" she said finally.
"What do you think Doctor?" Meng asked, prepared to defend his decision. The others seemed to tense and closed in behind their leader protectively.
"You would make an excellent tactician." Freya said.
Meng was startled. Again. He hated being surprised like this. "Why do you say that?" he asked to cover his surprise.
"You assess a situation, you do so quickly and reach a decision with what seems like very little thought but in fact, you are simply that good. That skill, with your presence means that few would question a decision you make." she said.
"My presence?" Meng inquired.
"Yes, your presence. You didn't set out to be a leader or even a revolutionary but you have a certain charisma that attracts people to you; as a leader, they follow you because of the way you are, the way you act. You are completely confident in every decision you make." Freya explained. Until then she seemed distracted, casual even as she assessed his general character. She focused her gaze on him and locked eyes with him. "Except one."
"Which one?" he said, not taking his eyes from her gaze.
"Me." Freya said, "Your tactical ability, while outstanding, is clouded by the general assumption that all embryotics must want what you want."
"You don't?" Meng asked.
"Actually I do." Freya said. Meng narrowed his eyes, and was about to question her further but Freya spoke first. "Why did you choose me?"
"Because you're one of us." he said without missing a beat.
"No, I'm not. I'm an embryotic - but I'm not one of you." she countered.
"They are one in the same. Or will be." Meng said confidently.
"No, they're not." Freya said, sounding disappointed. "I told you earlier that the only people you had to convince were the Council members; that's not true." she said. "You claim to represent all embryotics, all Quuvari but you haven't convinced them that your goals are their goals - you assumed that they would see your way immediately. And now innocent people who had never heard of the Sons of Liberty until your broadcast will be persecuted, implicated; they'll lose their jobs, their belongings, their families..."
"Which is why we need change!" Meng said loudly, angrily even - showing the first crack in the calm facade he displayed. Within a moment, he seemed perfectly calm again but his eyes were on fire.
Freya stood quickly and leaned in toward Meng; softly, just a whisper almost, "But you didn't ask them if they were willing to risk all that." She straightened up and looked from him to the others still in the room. "You will get people killed, good people will lose everything - what little they had - because of you. Is that what you hope to get from this?"
"To be fair Doctor, you don't know the strength of the Sons of Liberty." Lana piped up after a moment of heavy silence.
"You're right, I don't. But I know enough to know that as things stand, you will lose and a lot of good people will lose in the process. Bonwick is ready to begin a witch hunt and SHE has the support of the Council. They will force you out by hurting the people you claim to represent; other embryotics and Quuvari will pay for your revolution. Bonwick and the Council will bank on the fact that you won't want to see your 'kind' persecuted." Freya shook her head. "Your 'statements'; the explosions, the injured people, have all made you the villains - like I said - you have damage control to do. In the mean time I suggest you stay quiet so emotions can calm down."
"You want us to give up." Lana sounded disgusted.
"No. I want you to play smart - consider the people you're dealing with. They are the law - they can rule by fear."
"The more they tighten their grip, the more people will slip through their fingers." Meng said; once again an image of confidence.
-----
"Captain!" Andy was exasperated. "She's missing, a member of your crew is missing - doesn't that concern you?"
"I have every confidence in Commander Bonwick's ability to find Doctor Ryan." Captain Hunt said simply. "I suggest that you not concern yourself with it any further and leave it in the hands of our security team."
"But Captain Hunt..." Andy was cut off when he turned his full, piercing gaze on her.
"Lieutenant, I understand she is a friend but this is not your concern or department. Dismissed." Hunt said sternly.
Andy furrowed her brow, still wanting to argue the point but nodded slowly. "Yes Captain." she said quietly and left the bridge to hunt for Julian. She hoped he'd had better luck. She found him in his quarters looking glum - of course he'd look glum a lot lately. "No luck either?"
"Aunt Theresa has absolute confidence in Commander Bonwick. When I told her I had to leave to meet you; she perked up - you are apparently a more suitable match for me than Freya..." Julian said looking disgusted. He looked up at Andy looked sheepish. "No offense."
"None taken." Andy said. "I can't believe the Captain brushed me off. I thought he liked her - he even asked her to meet with the Sons..."
she was thinking aloud mostly, but Julian's head shot up at the end. "What are you talking about?!"
Andy looked at him surprised. "She didn't tell you? Oh shit..."
End Chapter
Chapter 3: Perceptions
"What are you saying Gin?" Todd asked chuckling.
I sighed, trying to find the right words, "It's just....she's a freshman - do you really think she should be dating..." I trailed off as Todd's chuckle got louder. "What?!"
"They AREN'T dating," he said once he stopped laughing. "Besides, you dated him..." he stopped as a certain understanding flashed across his face. "Ohh, I see now!"
"What?" I asked frustrated with his joking attitude.
"Nothing." Todd said shaking his head. I could tell he was trying to contain another laugh.
"What?!" I practically shouted, gaining a few looks from other lingering students.
"You're jealous." Todd said bluntly, opening my locker for me.
"I am not!" I sputtered. "Really!" I argued when Todd looked unconvinced. "Erik can date....or flirt...with anyone he wants! Just as Meghan's brother I thought you might..."
"Stop her from having a life? Not my job." Todd said still laughing at me. "Rationalize it all you want but YOU are jealous that Erik is..." I saw Erik approaching and shook my head at Todd to cut him off.
"Did I hear my name?" Erik asked lightly. Todd bit his lip to stop from laughing again. I think I would have to hit him later.
"Hi Erik." I said and quickly turned my attention to my locker.
"What's with her?" Erik asked Todd; Todd, for his part couldn't contain his laughter but just shrugged in response to Erik's inquiry. "What's with you?" Erik asked looking confused.
"Ginny here was just asking about Meghan is all." Todd said finally. He grinned and look directly at Erik. "She couldn't stop talking about you on the way to school this morning."
Erik looked from Todd to me as I closed my locker. "Really?"
"Oh yes, seems you have a new fan." I said with a half-hearted smile.
"Jealous?" Erik teased.
"Not hardly." I replied as firmly as I could muster.
"Oh yes she is...." Todd said quietly, but not quietly enough. I turned back to my locker to hide the blush creeping up my cheeks as Todd and Erik laughed.
I was about to calculate an escape attempt when Timothy approached with a handful of colored fliers. "Good morning everyone."
"What's with the fliers?" I asked pointing toward them; ignoring Erik and Todd.
Timothy handed me one and I skimmed it as he spoke. "I'm running for Junior class vice president on the student council."
"Cool." I said. "Got my vote....wait, when do we vote?" I said thinking back - had I ever actively paid attention to student council elections?
"In a couple weeks, I'll be sure to let you know." Timothy said with a small chuckle.
"Is this pick on Ginny day or what?" I said but I couldn't help but laugh at myself this time. The bell rang, rescuing me from being the butt of any more jokes thankfully.
------
Todd caught up to me later as I walked into our English class. "Hey Ginny - I'm sorry about earlier. Shouldn't have been ragging you like that."
I waved it off. "It's okay, maybe I am...a itty bitty tiny bit jealous...but if you tell him that..."
Todd made the gesture to zip his lips and threw away the key. "My lips are sealed." We took our seats; while waiting for class to start, Veronica walked in and looked around. Her eyes locked on me and she made a bee-line in our direction. "What is she doing here?" Todd whispered.
"Hey Gin!" Veronica said with a huge, phony smile on her face.
"Veronica." I returned her greeting with all necessary wariness and suspicion. "What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to tell you...." she looked from me to Todd for a second before continuing. "Well both of you, that I'm running in the Student Council elections. For class vice prez...I hope I can count on your votes!"
"Why?" Todd blurted out before I could figure out how to respond. I snickered and looked away from Veronica quickly.
"Why what Todd?" Veronica asked icily, her phony smile and attitude slipping.
"Why would we vote for you?" Todd asked.
Veronica glared at him for a long moment before returning her attention to me. "So, Gin - can I count on you?"
"Doubtful V, I've never been able to count on you." I said and her phony smile dropped completely. Thankfully Mrs. Crammer came in and ushered her out of the classroom before she could reply.
------
Timothy approached our lunch table with an unfamiliar girl following behind him. "This is Nai'a." he said. "She just moved here and I'm showing her around today. Nai'a, this is Genevieve..."
"You can call me Ginny." I interrupted, smiling at the girl.
"And Erik, Todd and Meghan - she's Todd's sister." Timothy continued.
"Hi." Nai'a said waving. She joined us at the table and we peppered her with questions to get to know her. She wasn't shy at all and asked us about as many questions.
Toward the end of the lunch period, Todd interrupted the question and answer session; "Has V approached any one else about the elections?" he went on to explain the encounter in our English class but everyone else shook their heads. Timothy looked thoughtful; likely considering his new competition. "What could be her motive for even running?" Todd wondered aloud.
"Has she even been involved in Student Council before?" Erik asked and Timothy shook his head in muted reply. I looked over toward Veronica's table and saw her snickering with the same group of girls she'd been hanging out with since summer.
My thoughts were interrupted as Meghan came bounding up to the table, returning from throwing out her tray, "Aren't you all friends with that Veronica person?" she asked quickly. Too impatient to listen to our replies she hurried on. "Because if so, she is spreading some awful rumors about you Ginny! Something about a guy named Bart...or was it Mart? Whatever..." she waved it off as insignificant.
I felt like I'd been punched in the gut and had to fight the urge to scream, cry and/or throw up all at once. I felt Todd reach out for me, his hand grazed my shoulder as I stood up. "Ginny?" Todd asked as I moved away from the table. I looked over at Veronica's table and saw she was gone now, most of the girls were still there. "Ginny..." I could barely hear Todd.
"Who's Bart?" I heard Erik ask as I headed for the cafeteria doors. I briefly wondered what Todd and Timothy would say but pushed them out of my head. I saw her coming out of the old girls' locker room, at the end of the hall and headed straight for her.
"Hey Gin!" Veronica said with the same phony smile from earlier. "I hope you've reconsidered your vote!"
"I have, instead of being doubtful - I can assure you that I will never vote for you." I said. Once again the phony smile dropped and she looked at me with loathing. "You are a horrible person Veronica Meyers; you don't care about anyone, you walk all over people and expect them to still be your friend but you don't know the meaning of the word friend."
"Wha-" Veronica sputtered, caught off guard by the venomous tone.
"Shut up!" I said loudly, close to yelling. "You don't get to talk right now." To her credit, she stayed quiet. "You crossed the line Veronica - you've done it before I keep foolishly forgiving you thinking that somewhere in there is someone I used to know but I realize now that I've been lying to myself about that. You deserve your new friends, enjoy them until they turn around and stab you in the back the same way you've done to me and every other friend you've had. I'm done with you. I'm done with your crap. Don't ever talk to me again V."
"What the hell is your problem?" Veronica replied. "All hurt and wounded because of a few little rumors?" she mocked.
"The rumors don't bother me, I know the truth. The source bothers me; and the fact that it's a repeat performance - don't you think you should make up new lies now that we're older V?" I said rolling my eyes. I turned to walk away from her, willing myself to walk away and stay calm.
"How is Bart Gin?" Veronica persisted, undaunted.
I spun around and slapped her, hard, across the face. My hand stung as I pulled it away from her. "Bart's dead." I practically spit the words at her.
I could see the shock, horror and sadness flash across her face. "He's been dead for two years." I said. I was shaking as I turned from her this time; thankfully she kept her mouth shut. I was halfway down the hall when Erik came out of the cafeteria and met up with me.
He didn't say anything to me or prompt for any answers, he just put his arms around me in a friendly, familiar hug and I welcomed it. I don't know how long we stood there before I felt sensibility returning to me. "I hate her" I said into his shoulder.
"No you don't" he said simply.
I had to agree with him there, I didn't hate her exactly. "I want to hate her." I revised my statement and pulled away from him as tears stung my eyes. "It would be easier if I hated her I think."
"Maybe, or maybe not." Erik said with a small smile. "You okay?"
"I don't know. Thanks Erik, for the hug, for being there..." I said, slowly starting to feel a little awkward.
"I'll always be there for you Gin, you should know that." Erik said.
"I should probably but sometimes I forget that we are doing that friend thing." I said with a weak smile.
"Well, I'll have to remind you more often." He said, gracing me with a swoon worthy smile.
I gave Erik a hug and lingered a moment to take in the feel of his comforting arms around me. "You're a good friend." I whispered. Reluctantly we parted as the noise of footsteps and clattering of trays came pouring out of the cafeteria as lunch ended.
Todd and Timothy came over quickly, followed by Nai'a and Meghan. "You okay?" Timothy asked.
I smiled and took both their hands. "I think so." I smiled back at Erik, who now had a flirty, clingy Meghan attached to his side. I flinched away from the sight of the two, but when I looked back I could see that Erik trying to pull away from her somewhat. I returned my attention to Timothy. "Let's win this election." I said, feeling the urge to see Veronica defeated.
End Chapter
