Falcondell: The Devil's Son (8 page)

Chapter 17

Ash drops me off near to my house and I head off home with a heavy heart. I can’t get the images out of my head of the violent scenes that I witnessed. Pushing open the door I see Aunt Sarah baking in the kitchen. Wiping flour off her hands she smiles warmly at me. “Hi honey, come in and I’ll make you a drink and you can tell me what happened at the game.” As I sit there I just wish that I could. However I know that as soon as she finds out about Ash I would be out of here quicker than I could pack.

Looking around me I realise what I have missed out on all my life. I have watched other people have a perfect family life with two parents who love them and brothers and sisters to share and argue with. How I wish that I had had that too. This is the first time in my life that I have come close and I will do anything to stay here.

Interrupting my thoughts the door slams and Gabe flies into the room. Slamming his bag down on to the floor he goes to the refrigerator and grabs a can. Looking at me he says, “Where did you all go? I looked everywhere but nobody knew where you were.” Looking down I avoid eye contact. “We left when we heard there was trouble, sorry Gabe we didn’t think.” Sitting next to me he shrugs and then grins broadly. “We won though. It’s always good to beat Freyview. They are such a bunch of losers in more ways than one.” Aunt Sarah looks pleased saying, “I’m glad you won honey.” Then she laughs and waves her hands towards me. “Although Grace looks a bit shell shocked after her first game, what did you mean that there was trouble though?” Luckily Gabe chips in. “Some guys from Freyview got badly beaten. They got carted off in ambulances.” Aunt Sarah looks shocked. “Do you know who it was?” Gabe raises his eyes up. “No prizes for guessing who, but of course there were no witnesses and by all accounts the guys who were beaten up said they didn’t see who it was.” Aunt Sarah looks worried and turns to me. “You didn’t see anything Grace did you? I’m so worried that you could have been caught up in it all.” I look at them both nervously. “Don’t worry Aunt Sarah; I know that I’m to keep away from anything, that’s why I left.” Luckily they seem to believe me and I feel terrible. I know just what would happen if they discovered that I was very much involved and I can’t take that chance.

We manage to have our dinner without further mention of the game and the drama that unfolded afterwards. The phone rings and Aunt Sarah passes it to me. I hear the urgency in Cally’s voice as she speaks. “Grace are you ok?” Trying to sound light hearted around my Aunt and Gabe I say, “Yes, you?” “Not really. Shall we meet up at Violet’s? I’ve already called Piper and she’s going to meet us there in fifteen. We need to get our story straight.” “Ok, I’ll see you there.” My Aunt looks up in surprise. I try to look normal as I say, “Cally wants me to meet up, she’s got something on her mind. Is it ok?” Aunt Sarah smiles. “Of course dear, but don’t be late; you look as if you need the sleep.” Gabe looks up. “Do you need a lift?” Shaking my head I say quickly, “No need, I’ll cycle there. It’s not far and I’ll be fine.” He looks relieved. “Good. I’m just going to get changed and then I’m meeting the guys for a celebratory drink.” Raising her eyes at me my Aunt laughs. “I can’t keep up with all the comings and goings in this house. Just be careful both of you.” Smiling reassuringly at her I too race off to get changed.

In no time at all I am at Violet’s and see them waiting with worried faces in a corner booth. As I slide in beside Piper, Cally looks at me fearfully and whispers. “Oh my God, I am still shaking. Did that just happen?” Piper and I look as worried as she does and Piper says fearfully. “What will happen if Skylar finds out that we were with their guys? I can’t even tell Gabe because Quade warned me not to. He said that if I breathed a word of anything that happened he wouldn’t be able to protect me from Skylar and Ash.” Cally looks equally worried saying, “If Teagan finds out I’m in so much trouble. Do you think anyone saw us?” I shake my head firmly. “Gabe seems to think that no one saw anything. I just hope that it’s true. We’re probably best just keeping our heads down and denying anything if anyone asks.” Just then Piper says, “I’m not going to lie though, that was probably the most intense experience of my life. I never thought I’d be rescued by a bad boy and whisked away on his motorbike. I don’t think I’ll ever be the same again.” Grinning at Cally I say, “Don’t let Gabe hear you talking like that. He’ll be turning up in a leather jacket with a motor bike quicker than you can blink.” Piper laughs, her eyes shining. “This is now officially the best week of my life.” I smile but I still feel hollow inside. Seeing my expression Cally says, “You’re worrying about the creepy guys aren’t you?” I try to smile. “Look I know they were evil and I’ll admit I was relieved to see Ash and his gang, but I can’t get the image out of my head of them on the ground. If the sirens hadn’t sounded then I don’t think that they would have stopped.” Cally and Piper look equally grim. Cally whispers, “Jacob was so wound up. I couldn’t believe it. He was so angry and I agree he probably wouldn’t have stopped. It took a lot to calm him down.” Piper looks surprised. “Didn’t they just drop you off like me then?” Cally and I share a look and say quickly, “Of course they did,” in unison and I see Piper’s eyes narrow. Luckily we are interrupted as Sylvia one of the waitresses comes over to take our order. By the time we have finished we decide to just carry on as normal and deny everything. It’s all we can do and I am dreading the thought of going to school tomorrow as I am sure that my guilt will be written all over my face.

Chapter 18

The next day it is all anyone can talk about. I try to keep away from Ash and his gang, especially Skylar and her friends. The word is though that she is not happy. I overheard someone saying that Skylar thinks that Ash was at the game looking for someone. If she found out it was a girl then she would make it her business to destroy them. Feeling uneasy I carry on but it is difficult to concentrate. Luckily I have a shift at Violet’s after work to take my mind off it all.

I feel so at home at Violet’s now. I love everyone that works there and feel part of a large family. It is such a happy place to work and Violet is a great boss. Once again I am set to wait on the tables and I am soon busy. As I come out of the kitchen my heart sinks when I see Ash sitting at a table with his friends. Averting my gaze I try to ignore them. Violet assigns one of the more experienced no nonsense servers to their table and I do my best to avoid them. I can feel Ash’s eyes on me though and it is extremely distracting.

After about half an hour the door opens and with interest I see a man walk in who looks around him with a hostile expression. He is dressed in a black suit and his hair is also black and swept back away from his face. He has an arrogance about him and despite the fact that he is a handsome man he appears cold and callous. He surveys the room and as I watch I see Ash look at him with an angry glare. Just then Violet comes out of the kitchen and seeing him tightens her mouth saying, “What are you doing here Jake?” In fascination I watch as he prowls over to her and runs his fingers around her waist and then lowers them, gripping her from behind. Leaning down he brushes his lips against hers and I see him whisper something in her ear. Violet blushes and her expression changes as she licks her lips. Pushing him away she says loudly, “Go on then, pick me up at closing time and don’t be late.” I watch as he smirks at her and then his eyes scan the room and settle on Ash and his gang. The others look uneasy but Ash just stares at him with a bored expression. The man goes over to them and I can see him say something to Ash. Whatever it is Ash doesn’t like it and slapping some money on to the table he grabs his jacket and I hear him say, “Come on guys, we’re out of here.” The man looks pleased with himself as he follows them out. As I return to the kitchen I ask Sally my fellow waitress. “Who was that?” Shivering she says, “Jake Knight. He goes out with Violet and that was his nephew who he spoke to. Not a family you want to be involved with in any way take my word for it.”

I feel uneasy at her words. There is an air of menace that surrounds them and I am not sure that I will be able to cope with it.

Heading home later I decide to have an early night. I need some time alone to re group and clear my head. I did think of going to the Ridge but can’t take the chance that Ash would turn up. I am starting to feel more and more imprisoned as each day goes on.

When I get to school the next morning once again the talk is of a disturbance on the other side of town last night. Apparently some thugs went to a bar and trashed it. The rumours are that the owners owed Mr Knight money and he had run out of patience. The bar was completely destroyed and the owner was badly beaten. Most people believe that it was down to Ash and his gang and I feel sick thinking about it.

I overhear Skylar boasting to her friends near the lockers. “Of course it was Ash and his gang, Jace told me. It’s them all over. Mr Knight calls and they come running. I’ll tell you what though girls, I had a good time afterwards if you know what I mean. Jace was on fire. Ash doesn’t know what he’s missing with me. I always used to help him calm down after a fight, it’s what I do best.” They all laugh and Teagan says, “Well you were lucky. I haven’t seen much of Jacob at all lately. I’m getting quite worried really; do you think he’s gone off me?” Another girl who I know to be called Paisley laughs saying, “You’re joking aren’t you. Have you looked around lately? There’s not much to choose from amongst this bunch of nerds. If he’s got someone else they must be from Freyview.” Then what I hear next chills me to the bone. Skylar says darkly, “Jace told me that Ash is interested in someone called Ana. I have a friend who goes to Freyview and she is going to find out if she goes there. When I find out where she is I think a visit might be in order, don’t you agree girls.” They all head off laughing viciously and in my nervous state I drop my books on to the ground. As I bend down to retrieve them somebody else goes to help me at the same time and we bump our heads. In alarm I look up and see a good looking guy kneeling before me. He has twinkling blue eyes and a kind face. His hair is a sandy colour and is the typical buzz cut that most of the Jocks prefer. Even from this position I can see that he is extremely fit. Smiling at me he hands me my book and helps me to my feet. Blushing I say, “Oh, thank you. I’m sorry if I hurt you.” He laughs and rubs his head. “Don’t worry about it; I am just glad to be of service.” Grinning at me he holds out his hand and as I shake it he says, “Hi, my name is Easton, you’re Grace right?” Smiling nervously I nod and he says, “I’ve seen you around. You’re Gabe’s cousin aren’t you?” I nod at him shyly. “I’m sorry, I don’t think that I’ve seen you before.” He pretends that I have wounded him. “And there I was thinking that you were dreaming about me in lessons.” He laughs good naturedly. “Anyway, just a thought but I was wondering if you wanted to grab a coffee with me after school? I’d like to get to know you and I promise to make you laugh.” Feeling completely shocked I don’t really know what to say. He is looking at me with such a hopeful expression and seems like a really nice guy. Any other time I would have taken him up on his offer but my heart is taken and I know that none of this would go down well if Ash found out.

Before I can answer Gabe comes around the corner with his arm around Piper and seeing us they come over. “Hey Easton, what’s happening?” Grinning ruefully Easton says, “I was just asking Grace is she fancied a drink with me later after school, and then you bulldozed in before she had a chance to reply.” Laughing Gabe slaps him on the back. “We’ll all go, how about that. You up for that Piper honey?” Slipping her hand in his she grins. “Of course I am. What about you Grace?” Before I can answer Gabe says loudly, “Of course she is; we’ll have fun. Right then girls we’ll meet you by the entrance after school.” Easton smiles sweetly at me and then goes off with Gabe leaving me shell shocked. Piper grins at me. “He’s gorgeous. He’s on the team with Gabe and is a real catch. Look at us, two invisibles with two of the hottest guys in school. I knew that this was going to be a good year.” Feeling extremely worried I say quickly. “They never gave me a chance. I can’t go on a date with him, please Piper you’ve got to help me.” She shoves me playfully. “Oh no, you’re not getting out of it that easily. You’ve got to conquer your fear of boys some time Grace and it may as well be with him.” The bell rings and she pulls me off to class.

I spend the rest of the day trying to think of how I can get out of the coffee date. Maybe if I pretend to be ill I will be sent home. I certainly feel ill at the thought of what might happen.

By the end of the day my nerves are frayed. Piper grabs me by the lockers and marches me to the entrance and my heart sinks when I see Easton and Gabe waiting. Looking around quickly I am grateful that there doesn’t appear to be any of Ash and his gang around at least. As we draw near I try to get out of it saying, “I’m sorry Gabe but I don’t feel well. Maybe we can do this another time.” Gabe grins knowingly. Leaning towards me he whispers, “You’re not getting out of this Grace. Easton is a good guy and you deserve some fun. You work all the time and go to school. It’s about time you found out what school life is really all about. Don’t worry though; I won’t let anything happen to you, that’s why I’m here.”

Resigned to it I think that if we can just get this over with then no harm may be done. My knees trembling I follow Gabe to his car and climb into the back beside Piper. Sinking down into my seat I just pray that nobody saw us.

Chapter 19

We drive to a coffee shop on the other side of town. I am thankful as it would have been more awkward to have gone to Violet’s. At least this way with any luck no one will see us.

We all take a seat near the back as it is quite busy. Looking around me I can see that there are quite a few kids from Freyview High and realise that this must be where they hang out. Leaning over to Gabe I say quietly. “Is this such a good idea? I mean after the trouble at the game we may become targets.” Gabe looks unconcerned. “No we’ll be fine. We come here a lot and most of the kids are cool. The rougher ones don’t come here and go to another place a way from here.” He then turns to Piper and they start kissing, which is so embarrassing. Easton grins at me and says softly, “Sorry Grace. You’ve been put on the spot a bit here haven’t you?” I smile at him. “Oh it’s fine. Anyway tell me about yourself Easton; Gabe says you are on the team with him.” He laughs good naturedly. “Yes for my sins. I enjoy it and I’m hoping that I can continue when I go to College next year.” Realising that he is in the year above me, it makes sense that our paths haven’t crossed before. “Anyway Grace, tell me about you. Gabe tells me that you are staying with him and his mom. Don’t you have a family of your own?” Feeling awkward I can feel my face flush. Grabbing hold of my hand Easton looks worried saying, “I’m sorry Grace, I didn’t mean that to come out the way it did. You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to.” I pull my hand quickly away. “Its ok, no worries.” Suddenly I see him tense up and follow his gaze. My heart sinks as I see Ash and Jacob glowering at us from across the room. I never saw them come in and my face must register my surprise. I catch Ash’s eye and he looks at me angrily. Gabe looks around as if sensing something and frowns. “What are they doing here? I’ve never known them to come here before.” Piper looks at me a worried expression on her face. Then some other kids from Freyview come in and I see some girls watching Ash and Jacob with interest. Obviously not sensing the drama they saunter over to them flicking their hair over their shoulders and hitching up their skirts. I see one of the girls go up to Ash and look at him suggestively. I hear her say, “Well well, you certainly don’t come here often or I would know about it. How about buying a couple of girls a coffee hot stuff, you never know what your reward will be.” I watch in horror as they then slide into the seats next to Ash and Jacob effectively trapping them. Seizing my chance I say to the others, “Look I really need to use the restroom. Do you mind?” They don’t seem to think anything of my request and I race off as fast as I can. Reaching the sanctuary of the ladies I sink back against the wall. This is not good. Wondering how on earth I am going to get out of here without Gabe or anyone else suspecting anything my mind goes into overdrive. Splashing some water on to my face to cool it down I leave the rest room intending to tell the others that I feel sick and need to leave. Before I even close the door a hand reaches out, grabbing me and pulling around the corner out of sight. I see Ash standing there looking at me angrily. My knees feel weak because despite the threat I love him so much and want nothing more than to kiss him and never stop. Looking at me his eyes turn as black as can be and he hisses, “What is going on Grace. Why are you here with him?” Looking up at him fearfully I say, “I couldn’t get out of it. I tried to say no but Gabe made me come with them. There’s nothing in it though, I promise you.” Relaxing slightly he takes me in his arms. Burying his face in my hair he breathes in deeply. “I can’t stand this, its torture for me. I have never been in this situation before. I want the world to know you are mine and the thought of anyone else touching you makes me want to kill them.” Feeling extremely worried I know that it’s not just a figure of speech with him. Pulling back he kisses me gently. “Meet me later Grace, usual place. I’ve been going mad without you.” Lowering my eyes I hesitate and he lifts my face to his and I can see the worry mixed with uncertainty in his expression. “What is it Grace, tell me?” I sigh softly. “I don’t know Ash. I want to be with you more than I have ever wanted anything in my life, but I am scared.” Looking surprised he says, “Of me?” I nod my head sadly. “I’ve heard things this week that makes me question whether or not I can really help you. You live in a different world to me and I don’t think I’m strong enough.” I see the pain in his eyes and it breaks my heart. “I know Grace. Don’t think that I know what I am asking of you. The selfish part of me won’t give you up when I know that I should. You deserve better than me, don’t you think I don’t know that? Please hear me out though. Meet me later and I’ll try to explain.” Holding him close I agree to meet him. I can’t help myself either. I know that I should keep away but I can’t.

Making my way back to the others I feign illness. Gabe jumps up in concern and I feel bad. Following them out I can see that Ash and Jacob have already left and the girls are looking extremely put out.

By the time we drop the others off I am feeling slightly better and feel bad about ruining the coffee date. Gabe drops me off and then heads back off with Piper to spend the evening at her house. I spend some time helping my Aunt with tea and then make my excuses saying that I’m going for a bike ride to clear my head.

The Town seems quiet as I cycle through it. Despite my reservations I feel excited to be meeting Ash again. The Ridge is the only place that we can be together and be ourselves. As the lights fall behind me I begin the climb up the side of the hill. By the time I reach the top I am tired but exhilarated. Taking a break I look out over Falcondell. Such as lot has happened since I came here. It feels like home to me now and the thought that I may have to leave one day fills me with dread. My thoughts turn back to Ash and a shiver runs through me. He is so dangerous but compelling. I already know that I can’t give him up and that thought terrifies me.