Flare: Chapter 2-The Date- an excerpt

 

(This is an excerpt from Chapter 2: The Date)

Cher started her day by enjoying a delicious breakfast before heading off to work. As she assisted customers at her job, she couldn't help but notice Dolan entering the shop. He had a confident aura about him, dressed in a stylish black leather jacket, a white tee shirt, jeans, black high-top Reeboks, and sunglasses. A flirtatious smirk played on his lips, “I will have her,” he thought to himself as his eyes gazed at her curiously.

His intuition proved to be right, as Cher's hidden desires were not so hidden after all. Once the customer left, Dolan took the opportunity to approach Cher. “Wow, it’s a small world isn’t it,” she said, as she nervously chuckled, referring to Dolan's unexpected presence in the shop. However, deep down, she couldn't shake off the feeling that his appearance was not a mere coincidence. Unbeknownst to her, Dolan had done his homework and strategically chose to show up at her workplace occasionally, believing it would make it easier to persuade her to go out with him.

Cher's uncertainty about Dolan's intentions weighed heavily on her mind, leaving her feeling nervous and on edge.

"What time do you get off?" he asked.

"I get off at six," Cher replied, flashing a sly grin.

"I was thinking of taking you out for dinner. Would you like that?" he asked, almost as if seeking her approval, reminiscent of a vampire seeking permission to enter a home. He removed his sunglasses, revealing eyes that seemed even greyer than usual. Cher brushed off the peculiarity, assuming he wore colored contact lenses. Little did she know, Dolan requires a virgin; it had been a decade since he last had one. 

A virgin's purity rejuvenates him, and the energy she emits would help replenish his vitality, his youthfulness. Dolan, who is one-hundred years old, has spent a lifetime hunting and siphoning human energy. Many women who crossed paths with him found themselves ensnared in his intricate web of deception. By the time they recognized the dire situation they were in, escape was but a distant dream, forever out of reach. Among the countless women he encountered, he had the power to transform some into energy vampires, while others met their untimely demise. Cher, with her enigmatic aura, could potentially follow the path of those unfortunate souls. Yet, there is an inexplicable allure that captivates him whenever he is in her presence. During their dinner, he will probe her with thought-provoking inquiries, attempting to unravel the depths of her being. Should she exhibit qualities of value, he will contemplate the possibility of bestowing upon her the gift of eternal life as an energy vampire.

 "I accept your offer for dinner," Cher murmured softly, a faint smile playing on her lips. A rosy blush crept up her cheeks, betraying her shyness. Dolan, with a keen sense of smell, detected her innocence and purity. Thoughts swirled in his mind, contemplating the possibility that she could be the one he had been searching for. A satisfied smirk danced across his face as he casually slipped on his sunglasses. "I will be at your place to pick you up at seven," he declared confidently. Cher reached into the pocket of her blue apron, retrieving a notepad to jot down her address. She handed it to him, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. Dolan's smile widened, resembling that of a predator ready to pounce on its prey. "I can’t wait for tonight," he said, just as another customer entered the shop. Stepping back, he allowed Cher to attend to the newcomer, a smirk lingering on his lips.

Before she could finish with the customer, Dolan had vanished into thin air, leaving her with a sense of disappointment. "And just like that, he disappears," she muttered under her breath, a hint of amusement in her voice. Cher couldn't shake off the mysterious allure of Dolan, wondering what the night would bring. As soon as her workday ended, she made her way home and decided to give her friend Maddie a call.

"Hey, you won't believe what happened!" she exclaimed excitedly.

 "What's going on?" Maddie asked eagerly, curious to hear Cher's news.

 "Dolan came by my workplace and asked me out. Isn't that amazing?" Cher shared her joy, though Maddie couldn't shake off her doubts about Dolan.

 "I'm happy for you Cher but just be careful. There's something about him that doesn't sit right with me," Maddie cautioned. Cher was feeling perplexed by Maddie's disapproval of Dolan. She couldn't understand why Maddie thought he wasn't a good match for her. "I can't explain it, but I just have a feeling," Maddie replied, trying to convey her concerns without revealing the real reason behind her unease. 

Maddie had seen Dolan chatting with a woman with blonde hair, and they appeared to have a close relationship. She didn't want to alarm Cher, especially since this was her first real date, and she had been sheltered by her parents for far too long. Cher had always carried an air of reserve when it came to interacting with men, displaying a clear shyness that was hard to miss.

This intriguing combination of traits has played a significant role in her remaining a virgin up until now. Moreover, her parents deeply ingrained conservative values have further reinforced this decision, as they firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage before any sexual encounter with the opposite sex.

Adding another layer to the equation, Cher's upbringing was heavily influenced by her parents' Catholic faith, which has undoubtedly shaped her perspective on relationships and sexuality. Maddie expressed surprise upon hearing that Cher and Dolan were going out that night.

“Well, just be careful, not just physically but emotionally.” Cher acknowledged Maddie's concern and assured her that she understood the importance of setting boundaries. "Well, I guess I get it. I haven't exactly had any experience in that department, so I'm not entirely sure how to handle things if it does happen," she admitted with a touch of sarcasm. "I just hope he's understanding enough to realize that.”

"If he doesn’t, then just forget about him," Maddie advised. Cher rolled her eyes and replied, "Wish me luck then," before hanging up the phone. With her parents both working late shifts, Cher knew she had a small window of time to make it home before her mom returned around midnight, followed by her dad at four in the morning. She plans on closing her door just in case she didn't make it back in time, hoping her mother would assume she was asleep and not open her door to check on her. Since Cher is the only child, her parents had always been protective of her. 

Cher prepared for the dinner date by putting on a stylish cotton silk black mini dress. To accessorize, she added a gold choker necklace adorned with adorable heart-shaped charms. Her matching gold dangle earrings swayed gently from her ears, while two black and white bangle bracelets adorned her wrist.

She added a pair of black three-inch heeled shoes on her feet and complementing the look was her gold Timex watch, a graduation gift from her parents years ago.

Dolan arrived punctually, adorned in a fashionable black leather jacket that exuded an air of sophistication. Beneath it, he wore a blue button-up shirt that perfectly complemented his attire, along with sleek black jeans that accentuated his masculine figure. With an air of confidence, he led the way to his pristine white Acura Integra RS, a symbol of his refined taste. 

Together, they drove to a charming Asian restaurant nestled in the heart of Garden Grove. As they entered the restaurant, the host greeted them warmly and guided them to a secluded corner, ensuring their privacy and intimacy. The ambiance of the restaurant was enchanting, with soft lighting casting a warm glow upon the elegantly set tables. Dolan pulled out a chair for her, a gesture that spoke volumes about his chivalry, attentiveness and charm. They settled into their seats. As the dinner progressed, Dolan’s gaze towards Cher became increasingly intense, filled with a mysterious desire that Cher couldn't help but notice. 

She would occasionally avert her eyes, feeling a shy unease under his penetrating stare. Little did she know, Dolan's suspicions about her innocence were right on the mark. A sly smirk played on his lips, revealing his hidden intentions as he continued to fixate on her with a lascivious hunger. Cher, curious to unravel the enigma that was Dolan, wanted to gain insight into the man who was not only ten years her senior but also sought something more profound than a mere date.

 The silence was shattered when she asked, "Tell me, what do you do for a living?" In response, he simply stated, "I'm a security guard in Long Beach," without divulging any further information.

This lack of transparency left Cher feeling unsettled, as she couldn't help but wonder what he was hiding. Dolan, sensing her unease, decided to alleviate her concerns by sharing a fabricated detail.

 "I've actually been with the security company for about five years now," he added, hoping to ease her apprehension. A warm smile spread across her face, instantly dispelling any lingering doubts he may have had about her trust in him. In a gentle gesture, he reached out and delicately touched her hand, causing a faint blush to grace her cheeks. With a captivating gaze that seemed to hold a mysterious power, he confidently suggested, "You are truly beautiful. Would you like to come to my apartment after dinner?" The intensity of his gaze seemed to have a mesmerizing effect on her, as if it was pulling her towards him, tempting her to give in to his irresistible charm and join him in his apartment. However, Cher was unlike any other woman he had encountered before. Despite his attempts to seduce her, she remained strong-willed and refused to succumb to his charm.

 "Um, I would love to come to your apartment but," she hesitated, her voice trailing off. "But what?" he asked, gently grasping both of her hands in his. Cher shyly averted her gaze, unable to meet his intense stare. "Tomorrow, I have to do something that demands my attention, I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice tinged with unease.

Her heart yearned for reassurance, fearing she may have distanced him. Yet, he remained unyielding, undeterred by a single setback, relishing the chase akin to a predator in its prime. "How about we make plans for this upcoming Saturday? I'd be more than happy to help you with your homework and perhaps we can delve deeper into getting to know one another." She nervously chuckled, "Absolutely, let's consider it a date, or rather, a study date." A smug grin spread across his face, radiating a sense of self-satisfaction. Afterward, he escorted her back to her place, and as she gracefully stepped out of his vehicle and made her way towards her front door; his eyes fixated intensely on the alluring contours of her body. In that moment, he could perceive the vibrant aura surrounding her, pulsating with a concealed longing for intimacy. The desire to taste the forbidden fruit surged within him, yearning for her presence, yet he exercised restraint, for he knew that patience would ultimately grant him the pleasure he craved. Cher ascended the porch stairs and walked into her house. 

A Time Traveler's Companion: Chapter 19: Another Secret-Excerpt

 

(Excerpt from Chapter 19: Another Secret)

Trigger warnings: Sexual content

In the previous chapter, Mr. Smith sustained injuries during their latest adventure on another planet and was recuperating in the infirmary. Meanwhile, Remi, feeling restless, decided to explore the intriguing yet peculiar rooms and corridors of the monolith. As she wandered through the vast time ship, she stumbled into the main control room and inadvertently touched one of the crystals on the matrix table, resulting in a powerful shock that knocked her out. When Mr. Smith finally emerged from the infirmary, he discovered her unconscious on the floor and promptly carried her to his room, laying her on his bed until she regained consciousness. Although she had been traveling with him for weeks, once he returns her home, it will feel as if she never left at all.

I would like to mention that Remi is currently 18 years old and approaching 19. It seems important to provide this information for context. Also she still lives with her parents.

_________________________________________________________________________________

    I found myself lying on his bed. Rubbing my eyes, everything looked blurry then as my vision cleared, I looked around. My clothes were neatly folded on the sofa in his room. I lifted the sheets and discovered I was completely naked, I gasped.

 “What happened?” I said to myself.

“Mr. Smith will be in to explain,” said the AI.

“Oh great,” I paused and realized that I might’ve been here for a few days, well it kinda felt like it.

 “No, oh shit, my parents are going to lose their minds.” Mr. Smith walked into the room, his attire incomplete. He had black cotton pajama pants but was shirtless, and I found myself unable to look away; his face was etched with unmistakable indignation. Gradually, I pushed myself up and leaned against the headboard, wrapping the sheets around me for warmth. He came closer and sat down next to me on the bed. “Remi, do you recall when I warned you about the crystals?” I nodded, feeling like a reprimanded child. “I’m sorry,” I murmured, pressing my lips together and gently biting my lower lip. He let out a sigh and rolled his eyes. “You’ll be okay,” he said, then hesitated.

 “But what?” I asked. He shook his head, “It’s nothing, but please don’t let it happen again.” He smiled and kissed my lips. I got the distinct impression that I should be worried, but I decided not to ask him for more information. He stood up. “There is something else,” he said. I gulped, “What is it?”

“When you touched the crystal, the AI scanned your memories.” His brow furrowed, and a flush of anger crept across his face. My eyes widened in realization; he didn’t have to utter a single word. He had pieced together everything about seeing Melanie at the nightclub in 1936 and not telling him and going with her on another time travel escapade, which I had kept from him. I exhaled deeply, “I made a mistake, just try to see it from my perspective,” I implored. He turned his gaze away, clearly let down, before meeting my eyes once more. Rising to his feet, he faced me with his arms folded.

 “You’re not going anywhere,” he said, taking a moment. “I need to think about what to do next, alright?”

“What do you mean by that?” I asked, but he just stayed quiet, which made me restless.

“Hold on, why?” I paused choosing my words carefully, “Okay, I went with her, but you’re the one I choose to travel with, don’t you get it? And what’s the big deal about traveling with Melanie? What are you not telling me?”

“Do you really want to know the truth?” I nodded. “She’s only interested in you as a potential companion because she’s checking you out,” he replied.

“What do you mean?” He settled back on the bed next to me, his face close to mine. “She’s probably after another body, and I think she picked you just because you’re with me. We’re not a couple anymore; we’re rivals now,” he paused, “well I see it that way. I fear that she’s trying to snatch you from me out of spite. I shook my head and said, “You’ve got it all wrong.” Then a thought hit me, and I asked, “So, am I just your possession, like a pet?” He stared at me without saying a word. “So, it’s true, I am his pet, his plaything, maybe his next body, I thought to myself. I trembled. “She is afraid,” the AI interjected.

“Damn that AI,” I mused and frowned. Letting out a deep sigh I asked, “Can I go home?” He responded with a weary sigh, “Not at this moment,” before rising to his feet and exiting the room without a backward glance. Left in solitude, I turned to the AI, seeking to uncover the events that transpired between him and Melanie, leading up to the moment he crossed paths with me. At first, the AI seemed reluctant to share any information, but after a brief pause, a holographic screen materialized in front of me, coming to life and showcasing the moments of their last day together. I won’t sugarcoat it; my heart ached as I witnessed the tender moments they shared. The scene shifted to when Melanie entered his room, taking a portion of the money from every era known to man, before slinging the brown leather messenger bag over her shoulder. I spotted the quantum time manipulator strapped to her wrist. She probably acquired it without his knowledge, clever. In a flash, Melanie sprinted out of the room toward the main control room. Meanwhile, Mr. Smith was oblivious, enjoying a shower and unaware of the unfolding chaos. “Why didn’t you stop her?” I questioned the AI.

“I had no directive to do so,” it responded. My brow furrowed as my suspicion deepened. The AI displayed the location from which Melanie had escaped from Mr. Smith. It turned out they were in the 1950s, which explained the vintage attire she was wearing at the time. As soon as she exited the monolith, she activated the quantum time manipulator and disappeared. "I can't believe she actually pulled that off," I exclaimed. The AI then displayed the moment Mr. Smith encountered me. At that point, he had been on a quest through time to find Melanie. The AI revealed to me, "Mr. Smith had been searching for Melanie for quite some time, but she managed to stay one step ahead. It appears she found someone to help her remain concealed from him." I gasped and whispered, "Jack."

"When Mr. Smith found you, he had tracked her to that spot using the device implanted in her. However, she quickly caught on to his pursuit. With the quantum time manipulator, she transported onto her companion's ship, who was tasked to kill Mr. Smith. He was the man you saw on the hill." I was in shock, struggling to absorb this revelation.

"No," I breathed. A hush fell over the conversation before the AI resumed, “Her new companion took aim at Mr. Smith, but you stepped in front of him and Jack couldn’t get a clear shot. In response, Melanie communicated with him through an earpiece, instructing him to hold off. When you looked back up at the hill before entering the monolith, the man disappeared because he too has a quantum time manipulator.” I remained silent, pondering, then I asked, “Wait a minute. I do remember that moment and Mr. Smith had told me that the man I saw on the hill was coming toward the monolith and then he asked me to make a choice, to go with him or not.”

“Correct,” it replied. With a deep sigh escaping my lips, I found myself momentarily speechless, but eventually I whispered, “Thank you for sharing the truth with me.” At the time, the AI only revealed a portion of the truth. Tears began to stream down my face just as Mr. Smith entered the room. He looked at me, taken aback by my tears, unaware of the reason behind them. I doubt the AI was meant to unveil what it did. “I regret what I said Remi," he hesitated, "My love for you is so deep that I fear you might abandon me, just like Melanie did." In that instant, it dawned on me that his actions were rooted in his own insecurities. How could someone so strikingly handsome and full of life experience such doubt? I wiped my tears and said, "I love you too." 

He leaned in, his lips brushing against mine with a gentle urgency, and soon we were wrapped in each other’s arms, with an intensity that ignited every nerve of my being. He made love to me, his arms enveloping me tightly as if I were the very air he breathed. When he entered me, it was with a powerful thrust, dominant and passionate. His thick member stretching me in ways that sent waves of pleasure coursing through my body. Each thrust was deep and relentless, igniting a fire within me that left me breathless, teetering on the edge unconsciousness. Afterwards we lay in each other’s arms, enjoying the afterglow. As time passed, we journeyed to two different worlds. One was a desert planet, its crimson sands stretching endlessly. The beauty was breathtaking, with the winds carving serpentine patterns across the dunes. Scattered throughout the sands were numerous quartz crystals, but Mr. Smith was on the hunt for something very specific. “Mr. Smith, where are we headed?” 

“Ah, Butterfly, I’m on the hunt for an entrance to a tunnel that leads to an underground chamber housing an artifact that I’ve been seeking,” he answered with sincerity. I couldn’t help but smile and let out a sigh. He scoffed and chuckle softly, “What was that sigh about?” He shot me a quick look as he filled a small glass vial with sand and tucked it away in the pocket of his bodysuit. He stood up. I held the magnetic wave scanner firmly in my hands, my mind drifting back to thoughts of home. It was evident that he had no intention of returning me home—not yet, and a surge of anxiety flooded over me as memories of my family and friends filled my thoughts. As he stood before me, I asked with worry, “Will you ever take me back home?”

He sighed deeply, “Remi, I will. I just want you here with me right now. Remember, I can return you to the exact moment we left.” I nodded, feeling a sense of defeat. He motioned for me to pass him the gun and began to survey the area around us. Our helmets crackled with the AI's voice through the intercom, stating, “The entrance is thirty feet to the south.” The winds howled a bit, but thankfully our environmental bodysuits protected us from both the gusts and the intense heat of the dual suns overhead. And yes, this system has two suns. We’ve finally found the way into the tunnels. Initially, it felt like a cave, but as we moved deeper, it changed dramatically; stone steps wound downwards, and to our astonishment, large glowing crystals were set into the walls, lighting our way as we went down. Once we reached the final staircase, we emerged into another tunnel, where more of those radiant crystals adorned the walls, and the floor was lined with cobblestone path that we treaded on with caution. Then we faced a metal circular door. “What now?” I asked.

“I’ve got a way to open it,” he replied, pulling out an unusual gadget that resembled

a handheld scanner, measuring about six inches long and two inches wide. It was sleek and black, adorned with a gold stripe running through the middle. He positioned the device above the lock, and I could hear a series of beeps each time the key materialized on the scanner. The door opened and my eyes caught sight of another long tunnel. “Mr. Smith, where are we headed?” 

“I adore your curiosity, my dear. The AI will lead the way,” he replied.

 I held the magnetic wave scanner gun. He nonchalantly brought up that the large device is known as the MR-649. While it bears some resemblance to a weapon, it is more like a metal detector, well sort of. It functions on a significantly more sophisticated level, though. Mr. Smith keeps his pistol securely holstered at his waist. He said that one day he will show me how to use one of those sci-fi looking pistols of his, one day. The AI's voice echoed through the intercom, "You're almost there."

Mr. Smith exhaled deeply, and relief washed over him. As we rounded the bend, the rough granite walls of the tunnel gave way to a smooth, unfamiliar metal surface. A strange blue glow illuminated our path from above, guiding us toward a circular metal door that was securely locked. Mr. Smith activated the scanner to gain access, and with a careful nudge, he opened the door slightly and gestured for me to stay back while he assessed the area for any potential threats. Just as he stepped inside, a series of lasers shot out, illuminating the space. He quickly leaped back. “Damn it,” he exclaimed. 

“Will we be able to enter without getting killed?” I asked him, clearly worried about this venture.

“Yes,” he replied and called on the AI for assistance. The AI sent him a layout of the chamber and informed him of any booby traps that might be present.

(Images are for the readers entertainment)

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FLARE: Chapter 10 Chaos (Excerpt)

 

(This is an excerpt from my book FLARE, Chapter 10 Chaos)

Dolan found himself caught in a web of conflicting emotions, torn between loyalty to his comrades and the unsettling truth about Cher's motives, leaving him grappling with a moral dilemma that could change everything. He's aware that Cher witnessed something real, but in a vision. He was eager to speak with her, but something was preventing him from getting close to her house.

He suspects that religious charms hanging outside her window might be the cause.

 "Hey Dolan, you really need to have a conversation with her, or at least with her friend. She confides in her about everything," Leena urged before getting up and headed toward the door. Dolan was deep in thought.

She turned back and said, "Catch you later," with a hint of disappointment in her eyes. After she left, Dolan made his way to the bathroom for a quick shower. Later, he lay on his bed, partially dressed, staring up at the ceiling. As night fell, he closed his eyes, trying to connect with Cher in his thoughts. Suddenly a vision came to him, it showed Cher battling a group of vampires. 

Startled, he abruptly sat up. Quickly, he threw on his long black coat over a black tee shirt. His black button-up Levi’s jeans fit snugly but allowed for easy movement. He grabbed a suitcase filled with weapons from his closet, taking out a retractable sword, he took it with him.

 With a sigh, he headed out the door. Arriving at the feeding den in some undisclosed bar and grill in Long Beach, he parked his car in the back parking lot. He can sense Cher nearby. He immediately heard screams emanating from within. Fear gripped him as he stepped out of the vehicle, his eyes wide with apprehension. Scanning his surroundings, he noticed the hunters encircling the building. All humans had been safely evacuated, leaving behind only those who willingly offered their blood to the vampires. A hunter pursued a vampire fleeing from the building, both disappearing into the darkness. 

“The Hunters always strike at night, damn bastards,” he muttered. “Get back here, you fuckin’ bloodsucker!" the Hunter yelled.

A pistol gleamed in his hands; its barrel pointed straight at the vampire. With a swift pull of the trigger, rounds of Holy Water burst forth from the gun, each bullet containing the sacred liquid. The shots echoed through the night, and the vampire staggered before collapsing to the ground. 

Dolan crouched behind the towering trash bins, his heart racing as he watched the chaotic scene unfold before him. Among the fleeing vampires and some humans that were donors, Cher stood out, brandishing a sterling silver machete amid the crowd.

“No,” Dolan muttered. He was unsure how to engage with her. Helpless, he observed as the chaos seemed to play out in slow motion. She wielded the sharp machete, decapitating heads as she made her way through the vampires that tried to fight back or escape. When she faced in his direction, he saw her eyes glow passionately as she enjoyed killing the blood suckers. No energy vampire has ever killed a regular vampire, not since the war that happened between them before he was ever made into an energy vampire. In superhuman speed, he dashed towards her, scooped her up, and carried her to his car while she was distracted. 

“Put me down,” she shouted, grappling with him, nearly injuring him with the weapon she wielded, but he seized it and flung it into the rear seat as he tossed her in the passenger seat. “Cher, stop," he yelled. Her eyes gleamed with a crimson hue as she hissed at him vehemently.

 “What happened to you? Why are you doing this?" he asked, as he drove out of the parking lot and onto the street. Cher composed herself and fixed her gaze on him. "Why would you do that?" she asked, her eyes reflecting a lugubrious expression and her lips parting in disbelief. Her eyes had lost their fiery intensity and returned to their normal state.

 “You shouldn’t have done that, you should’ve left me alone,” she admonished him for his actions before turning her gaze towards the passing lights of other vehicles while Dolan hurriedly drove to his apartment. 

“Explain," he interjected, his tone firm. "I need an answer from you." Cher remained quiet. Upon reaching the apartment building, he held the door open for Cher, but she declined to leave the car. He looked at her, feeling flustered. She met his gaze with a glare before finally stepping out of the vehicle. Glancing at her weapon in the backseat, she was stopped by Dolan's stern voice, "Don't think about it, Cher."

 He firmly held her arm until they arrived at his apartment, where he immediately switched on the light. “Sit,” He commanded her to take a seat at the breakfast table, then removed his coat and settled down beside her. “I regret leaving, and if I had been aware of what you went through after I left, I would have returned earlier," he expressed apologetically.

 Cher gazed at him, feeling the urge to weep, yet refusing to grant him the satisfaction of witnessing her vulnerability. He fixed his gaze on her, anticipating a reaction. A tense silence hung in the air. He reached out and gently touched her hand, causing her lips to part and their eyes to meet with a shared desire. Standing up, he took her hand and guided her towards his bed, where they both undressed in anticipation. With a seductive smile, he whispered, "Baby, let's share our energy with each other. I don’t want to fight."

(For those who don't know, Cher's eyes are normally brown but when she is aroused or enraged, her eyes turn silver in color. In addition, I try not to share the sexual encounters between the characters on this blog, The book is rated for 18 & 0ver.)

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Chapter 11 Excerpt

Chapter 2 excerpt

Trigger warnings: sexual content

Chapter 16: The Thing About the Book-Part 3

 

(This is a excerpt from Chapter 16: The Thing About the Book--Part 3 from  

A Time Traveler's Companion.)

“Remi, I didn’t notice that you came in. I thought I heard the front door earlier and assumed you had left. Did you go out?” 

“Actually, I went hiking with Leila,” I lied. The truth is I was having lunch with Mr. Smith, completely oblivious to my mom's presence at home. 

“Oh, I thought Leila was working today?” my mom asked.

“She had a schedule change,” I replied, continuing the deception.

“Sweetheart, I’m really sorry,” she said, taking a breath. “I didn’t mean to upset you, and you were right; I shouldn’t have looked at your diary.”

I gave her a soft smile. “It’s okay mom, let’s just forget about it,” I responded, and accepted her apology. She mentioned that she had the day off and asked if I wanted to join her for some shopping. I smiled and agreed. We headed out and I made a stop at that nearby thrift store, where I spotted Tracy’s granddaughter assisting a customer.

 Once she finished with the customer, I approached her. “Hi, I’m not sure if you remember me, but—” 

She cut me off, saying, “Of course, you’re the girl who bought the book!” 

I nodded in acknowledgment and asked, “Do you know where the author lives now?” 

"My grandmother passed away in the early 2000s," she disclosed, leaving me momentarily stunned.

"Oh, I'm really sorry to hear that," I replied, feeling a wave of sympathy.

 "It's alright; my mom often shared tales of my grandmother's escapades with her time traveler,” she fingered quoted and smiled, “I'm glad you enjoyed the book," she continued, and my heart sank. 

The revelation hit me hard—not only was Tracy gone, but she had travelled with Mr. Smith at some point in the past. The realization was painful, and I felt a deep sense of loss, my heart sank. I left the shop, seeking comfort in the familiar spot where I had first spoke to Melanie, where my mom was waiting for me.

"What’s wrong?" My mom sensed the sorrow etched on my face.

  "It's nothing," I lied to her, but her gaze pierced through my facade. Leaning against her, I fought back tears that threatened to spill. "Sweetheart, it can't be as terrible as it seems." I inhaled deeply and straightened up.

  "Let's head home; our soap opera will be starting soon," I suggested, hiding the ache within. As we settled in to watch our beloved soap, my thoughts drifted elsewhere, haunted by the words Tracy's granddaughter had shared with me. I headed upstairs and took a shower, feeling my face heat up. 

Once in my room, I plopped down on my bed and picked up the book, flipping through the pages. I hit a section where Tracy perfectly detailed Mr. Smith’s bedroom, and my heart sank. That’s when I noticed the monolith materializing in my room. Tears started rolling down my face as a mix of anger and pain bubbled up inside me. When Mr. Smith stepped out, he noticed how upset I was.

 “Remi, what’s wrong?” I was sprawled on my bed, face buried in my pillow. He sat beside me and gently rubbed my back, trying to soothe me. I shot him a glare before turning away and hiding my face again. He seemed puzzled, not grasping my behavior, until I reached over to my nightstand where I placed the book and tossed it at him. He glanced at the back where Tracy’s photo was, and with a simple, “Oh,” I knew he finally understood what had happened.

"Why did she go on trips with you? You slept with her, didn't you," I shouted, my anger boiling over. He sighed deeply, "I'm sorry, Remi. I did take her on a couple of trips, but I didn't sleep with her. When she joined me, she was already married and had a child."

  “How did you manage to contact her?” I asked, my voice laced with suspicion as tears streamed down my cheeks. “I provided her with a phone, much like yours,” he said. “Why would you do that?” I pressed.

 “When we first ran into her, she said she wanted to tag along on our adventures, but I could see you were a bit jealous. So, after we dropped her off and I took you home, I headed back to 1969, where I thought it’d be fun to take Tracy on a little trip, and I took her to…” 

I jumped in, “Tarislee?” I said with a hint of accusation. He looked at me with a smile and planted a kiss on my forehead. “No, my love, I took her to the Century 21 Exposition World’s Fair in Seattle back in the 1950s.”

 My brow furrowed, I shot back, laced with sarcasm, “So why haven’t you taken me to any of the world’s fairs?” He let out a soft sigh, taking my hand and planting a gentle kiss on it.

“I promise, I will—maybe next time.” 

 “Did you take her anywhere else?” I asked, wiping tears from my eyes.

“Yes, Tracy had a passion for time travel and often shared how much she wished you could accompany us. She truly loved you Remi."
“How? She barely knew me,” I thought to myself, and urged him to continue.

 "Eventually, she contacted me in her late 30s, excited about the idea of one final adventure together. I had no idea she was chronicling our experiences in a book." He paused briefly before adding, "I have strong feelings for you, but it pains me that you kept your friendship with Melanie hidden from me." I took a deep breath, though traces of anger remained. Reflecting on his words, I came to understand that we had both, in our own way, let each other down. I kept quiet about Melanie, and he never mentioned his time-traveling adventures with Tracy, so we were on equal footing.

"Alright, I guess that makes us even,” I said. He gently turned my face to look into his eyes.

 “Remi, did Melanie share anything else with you?” I took a deep breath and replied, “No,” knowing I was being dishonest. He let out a sigh, flashed a smile, and nodded, “Alright, Butterfly.” I kept to myself the fact that Melanie had revealed his true name.

“From now on, let’s promise to be completely honest with one another,” he said as I sat up straight. He wrapped his arm around me and continued, "I want to avoid repeating the mistakes I made with Melanie. I truly love you; my feelings for you have deepened, and my heart is yours, just as yours is mine." I nodded and he held me firmly in his arms.

“Tracy’s granddaughter mentioned to me that she passed away in the early 2000s. Were you aware of that?” He sighed deeply, “Yes, the AI had actually informed me well in advance that Tracy would succumb to an aneurysm and recommended that I take her on some trips to show kindness.” Hearing this made me feel a pang of sadness for Tracy.

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Excerpt Chapter 20: The AI & Me Part 3

 

Mr. Smith's face changed and instantly he yelled, “Run!” He snatched the urn, feeling a surge of electricity that almost knocked him off his feet, but he fought hard to stay upright. I dashed toward the exit, with the android hot on our heels as we sprinted through the tunnel. It fired its weapon at us several times, but each shot went wide.

"Is it possible for you to teleport the monolith into the tunnels?" he asked the AI. Our breaths matched the frantic pace of our racing hearts, a shared panic settled, as we realized the danger we were in. The monolith appeared a few yards away, however as we neared, I suddenly felt a searing blast go through me, like fire consuming my very body. The next thing I remember waking up in the infirmary. I scanned my surroundings and realized that I was wrapped in that peculiar bio-skin substance that I had to apply to Mr. Smith’s body during his last injury back in the 1930s. I felt completely immobilized, as if I were frozen in place, yet I could still speak and shift my gaze. I shut my eyes, attempting to piece together the events that led me here. 

“Are you having trouble recalling what transpired?” the AI asked.

“Yes, could you please explain what happened?” My voice came out faint and fragile. The AI began to reveal the events on the holographic screen above me. It appeared that the AI had been capturing nearly everything occurring around and within the monolith, which unsettled me. I watched as Mr. Smith, and I raced through the tunnels. Just as we approached the monolith, a sudden jolt of pain shot through my back, courtesy of the android's weapon. The impact was overwhelming. Mr. Smith quickly yanked me inside, and in an instant, the monolith disappeared. I was lying on the operating table in the infirmary, blood seeping from my wound. Mr. Smith looked terrified, his eyes brimming with tears.

 “Can you save her?” he asked the AI, his voice trembling with dread. 

“Yes, but she will need to undergo the same procedure you have experienced each time you were gravely injured,” It paused, “Maybe it’s time to consider letting her go, and possess her body,” it stated bluntly. Mr. Smith’s face turned crimson, “How could you even propose that?” he shouted, his anger palpable. “I already have a new body prepared.” He exhaled deeply, his voice firm as he commanded, “Make her better.” I appeared lifeless on the bed, which was hardly surprising given that I was teetering on the edge of death once again. He exited the room, and suddenly, a brilliant light enveloped my body.

High-tech medical devices descended from the ceiling, beginning the intricate process of mending the wound in my abdomen, where the blaster burned right through me. I observed as the AI worked, injecting nanites into my body that swiftly mended my injury. They resemble tiny mites, bustling around and fixing the damaged tissue. The holo-screen turned off. I closed my eyes; I believe I was unconscious again. An unexpected memory surged into my mind—-I recall having a face-to-face conversation with the AI.

 It was in its true form, it appeared as a black humanoid figure, akin to a mannequin yet possessing the fluidity of human movement. Its eyes were mere slits, glowing with an eerie crimson light. It loomed in front of me as we stood face to face within the wall of the monolith. 

"How can I be here while my body is there?" I questioned, my voice trembling as I gazed at it in terror. 

"Am I... dead?" I asked. It came closer, moving deliberately as it extended a hand toward my cheek. I instinctively recoiled. As it shifted, the AI's movements echoed those of the android from Terminator 2, particularly the police officer in his authentic state. Upon closer inspection, the AI’s skin resembled a dark liquid, shifting and flowing as it changed position. However, there was an unsettling shadow, a foreboding presence surrounding the AI that sent a shiver down my spine. 

“No, you are not dead, I brought your mind to this place while your body undergoes repair,” it replied.

 “Are you really female?” I asked.

“Absolutely, I can be whatever he desires. Since he wished for me to embody Melanie’s image, I appear as her on occasion,” it paused then added, “Eventually, I will take on your likeness, one day.”

Its words sent a chill through me, but I managed to ask, “What makes you say that?”

“Do you not grasp the situation? You won't live forever, but he will and when your time comes, your very essence will merge within these walls. Just like what occurred with Melanie, the woman whose body Ona now possesses.”

 Hearing this from the AI left me in a state of shock and fear. "Let me out of here at once," I insisted. I pressed my hands against the dark glass. Mr. Smith walked into the infirmary, and he stood over my body. I banged on the surface of the glass wall, but he couldn't hear my cries for help.  

“Mr. Smith, please help me! I’m stuck in here,” I shouted. The AI hovered closely behind me, its fingers brushing through my hair with an odd sense of curiosity.

 “It appears he’s more taken with you than I thought,” the AI remarked. I instinctively moved away from it. 

In an instant, I found myself back in my own body. Mr. Smith had just stepped out of the room as my eyes shot open, I gasped for air. I was staring up at the ceiling in confusion. Hours passed, and as my body regained strength, I noticed that the bio-skin substance had melded seamlessly into my own skin. Mr. Smith entered and gently lifted me, carrying me to his room for some much-needed rest.  

“Remi, I promise to take you home after our final adventure. We’re heading to the 1800s, but for now, just rest my love,” he said, kissing me deeply and covering my naked body with the soft, comforting sheets.

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