Dnaleri

Glancing over at the clock, Jacob was glad to see that it was only a little after four. Colin didn’t get back until after five, so he at least had an hour to talk to her. He took his cell phone out and dialed her number. It rang three times then she picked up.

“Hello?” Her voice was so lovely, he nearly forgot to talk. He cleared his throat and said,

“Hey Rebecca, it’s Jacob.”

“Jacob…?”

“You sound surprised,” he commented with a slight laugh. Silence. “Rebecca, are you there?”

“Yes sorry, I didn’t expect you to call.” Jacob asked why. “Well…I…you don’t seem to be the type of guy who’s interested in girls like me.”

“You mean cute, interesting and stubborn?” Jacob teased, while his heart broke at her lack of confidence in herself. She giggled softly.

“Don’t know what you mean by stubborn..” she muttered playfully. Jacob smiled. They chatted easily for twenty minutes, talking about school and how dreary the work load was.

“At least we have nearly a month off for winter break…” Jacob offered. “Rebecca…?” he called, not knowing why she was suddenly silent.

“Sorry, Penny’s calling me. I’ve got to go.” Rebecca said regretfully.

“Oh well, why don’t we get together tomorrow for lunch at the cafe?” Jacob asked. There was a barely muffled squeak of excitement. The cute little noise made his energy spike with delight. She cleared her throat and said,

“Sure, I’ll see you then.”

****************************************

The next day, Rebecca and Jacob were sitting at the same coffee shop where they had met. Rebecca had brought her own home made lunch with a peanut butter sandwich, chips, Diet Coke, and applesauce. Jacob had bought his lunch at the shop, a bagel and a cup of hot chocolate. As they talked, Rebecca noticed some girls from school looking at them and whispering to each other. She ignored them, focusing on Jacob.

Jacob was also noticing some people watching them, but like Rebecca he just ignored them as if Rebecca was the only person in the world. Her smile was what drew him in the most. It was almost like a secret smile, as if she was afraid to show her happiness to have a friend. It was difficult to get to know her as well. She had walls built up around her and there was a deep seeded sadness in her beautiful brown eyes.

When they were done eating, Jacob offered to walk her home but she said,

“Thank you but, it’s not necessary.” She turned to go when he took her hand.

“Forgive me, but have I done something to upset you?” he asked. Rebecca stared at him in surprise and shook her head.

“No, you’ve been wonderful-I mean…” She looked at their joined hands and swallowed, closing her eyes. The connection was there again. But as before she pulled away. “Jacob, I’m not good with people. I don’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

“You haven’t, I’m just concerned.” He replied. Rebecca bit her lip. “I won’t pry, but I’m willing to listen if you need to talk.” Her secret smile returned and his energy twisted in his chest.

“Thank you, Jacob.” Almost without thought, she reached up and kissed his cheek. Another shock of energy shot through him, leaving him speechless as she walked away.

Rebecca’s face was bright red as she walked away, wondering why in Hell she kissed him! It was as if everything that had happened to her to make her not trust people, had disappeared. That it didn’t matter. His sincerity and caring nature made her want to be close to him. Perhaps she could.

Halfway home, Rebecca felt a dark presence behind her and her heart started to beat rapidly. Walking a bit faster, she hoped her pursuer would leave her alone. Rounding the street corner she glanced back and saw no one was there. Relieved, she turned back only to face the man who’d been following her.

“Where do you think you’re going?” he demanded, arms crossed. Rebecca swallowed heavily. He stepped forward and she retreated.

“Please, j-just leave me alone.” She begged, clutching her coat. His eyes flashed in anger.

“As you left me alone?”

“I didn’t know…!” Rebecca cried then he smacked her across the face.

“I told you I never wanted to see you around here again.” He snarled in her ear. “If I have to tell you again, I won’t be as gentle.” With that he walked away, leaving her crying in the snow.

Author: Katie (Crios) Editor: Elizabeth (Eala)

Patreon: patreon.com/ealacrios