Confusion is written on everyone’s face, like my unicorn sprinkles created an actual horn out of my forehead.
The first to speak is Parker.
“Luna, I’ve remained calm since I got in here, like West asked. For your sake, but do not push me with that shit, do you understand? This is the world we live in, someone’s always going to want to attack us, if we’re with you or not. So, don’t insult me by taking away my choice. Understood?”
My mouth is going like a fish. I’m stunned, I want to say something, but I have no idea what, who knew I could be silenced.
Parker with his surprising firmness again. Hot. Everyone chuckles at my expense and the guys all pat Parker on the back. Aceholes.
West steps into the room, with his phone to his ear.
“Rafe,” he mouths.
I expect him to hand me the phone, so I’m surprised when he ends the call.
“Did he not want to talk?”I’m surprised, because that’s not like him at all.
West chuckles.
“Of course he wants to talk to you, he's been out of his mind, but we don’t need the phone. Not when he’s just driven on to campus.”
He doesn’t say anything else, he just saunters out.
Give me strength to deal with all this pain along with all this babying because I’m gonna fucking need it.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
(Luna)
Rafe had stormed in and roared for everyone to leave. Taking over as always. I couldn't help falling back asleep before we could talk though. I'd burned through all my energy already.
The next time I woke up, my curtains had been drawn and the silence was welcoming. Refusing to ask for any further help I brought myself to sit on the edge of the bed. West was getting good at keeping freshwater ready for me, with some pain tablets on the side. Bringing myself to stand, the pain ran through me like a wave, but it was a little more bearable compared to last time.
What time is it?
Glancing around I couldn't see my phone anywhere, so I slowly made my way into the lounge. My two sofas looked tiny with both West and Rafe lay across them. That must be uncomfortable. The television was playing quietly in the background casting shadows around the room. Looking at the clock I see it's 06:10. Damn I slept for a long time again.
I turn on the coffee machine and head to the bathroom to freshen up. I hate how long such simple tasks are taking me. I'm stronger than this, but my body is telling me otherwise, and I don't want to push myself too hard. I need to shower or finally relax in that beautiful tub, but even I know it's not a good idea right now. I'll likely need someone awake just in case.
A knock sounds at the bathroom door.
"Hey Luna, you okay in there?" calls Rafe.
I open the door to see a sympathetic smile on his face. I don't need anybody's pity, but then he gently wraps his arms around me. Protecting me from the world around me and I can't stop my walls from crumbling, and the tears begin to fall. He holds me like that for what feels like forever, whilst I let my emotions takeover. I haven't cried since I was six years old, but so much has just happened in such a small amount of time that I just can't hold my emotions at bay.
Last Friday was the perfect day I'd wished for. I'd spent the day at Inked and headed for my first fight. They only way it could have been better would have been some hot sex afterwards but instead my life was tipped upside down.
Forced to join an Academy I had no care for, an Academy for the criminal underworld, and I knew we hadn't even scratched the surface with how dark this all was. Then to meet people who are breaking my walls so casually, forcing me to care, and making me enjoy the presence.
Then I get attacked by people who knew this world better than I did. I need to catch my breath.
Finally calming down I step back from Rafe, who wipes my face with his t-shirt like I'm still a little child, but I can't help the smile it brings me. I know there is a lot for me to learn, and there is a lot Rafe has held back, but I’m glad I can still feel safe in his company to relax my walls, even if only for a moment.
"Come sit, I'll make us something to eat," Rafe says, as he guides me into the kitchen.
He pulls a chair out and I see a cushion there ready for my bruised body. Fuck. I hate that he babies me, but I do appreciate these small gestures to help ease my pain.
"You want some eggs and bacon?"
"Rafe let's not ask silly questions, okay?" I respond, making him chuckle.
He pops a black coffee in front of me and proceeds to take over the space. I have so much to ask and I don't know where to start, and I'm sure he wants to know more too. Whilst he cooks away, I relax before we ultimately start grilling each other.
The smell of bacon soon takes over the room and has West walking into the kitchen. He doesn't say anything, he’s barely awake, if the drag of his feet or the wiping of his eyes is anything to go by. He just grabs a coffee and takes a seat at the table.
Rafe soon joins us with the food, and we all just devour the heavenly goodness before we bring ourselves up for air.
"So, I'm sure we all have a lot
