Chapter 20

    They had to admit, that they got acclimatized and adapted to the rhythm of classes and lectures quite quickly. In college they passed by on the run, exchanging few words quickly, they went together to the photography classes only – Mel because it was her passion, Jay because she liked it and wanted to develop her skills in this field. ‘Yet, it can come in handy,’ she thought. Together with Jess, she participated in psychology, parapsychology, informatics and technology classes. After a moment of hesitation, they’d decided to take cultural and supernatural forensics courses.

    When they were returning home, a black tomcat, which they adopted at an animal shelter, greeted them from the threshold. As soon as they saw him, they knew, they had to take him home. Their pupil has been through a lot, remains of his experiments were a scar on the right side – a souvenir after Amstaff’s claws; ragged ear after becoming entangled in barbed wire; and a scar crossing his left eye. Fortunately, the eye itself wasn’t damaged. The cat was trustful, settled quickly and showed sincere affection, especially to Mel.

    Jay often visited her brothers, to exchange comments, discuss and train her mental capacities. It became much easier for her, when Mel begun dating with a second year student. Even if Jay didn’t like his aura, she remained silent, cause thanks to that handsome, nice guy, her friend didn’t need Jay’s companion too often – they usually organized one girls’ night a week, for confessions and gossip. She also tried to find some time for Bryan, with whom, despite her firm resolve, she began to date. Although, she felt that she acted unfairly towards him, by not telling him, who she really was; yet she couldn’t just turn away and leave. Bryan was a kind of springboard for her, safe haven. A sanctuary, where she could hide and forget, even for a moment, about destiny and the related responsibilities.

    Her mind was still open, so she could learn to control the flow of energies coming from supernatural beings. After a week spent in college, she knew who’s a vampire, and who’s a witch. She knew most of shape-shifters and she trained to distinguish species, as there was a fundamental, though slight, difference between werewolf and were-leopard. Just as every animal has its own features, the energy of particular shape-shifters has its own. At the end of October her abilities were much more developed. She knew her brothers are practicing as well. They often made experiments together. But especially Jay devoted a lot of time for it.

    But though she spent many hours searching, she didn’t catch the trace of Isabo’s murderers again. Yet, they kept seeking for information among local suspicious guys, who might lead them on the right track. They checked all the archival reports and press releases about unexplained and mysterious attacks of wild animals, especially wolves. It appeared that few hunters died the same way. Daniel proved to be a real hacker and found the victims’ families. They decided to look closer at those murders, that's why they arranged meetings with relatives of the murdered, so they could get more information, form their own theory and probably take revenge.

***

    Walking through the crowded college corridor, she was thinking about questions she was going to ask to the family members of Paul Thomson, who died seven years ago, leaving his wife and two kids, aged eleven and eight. She had a long way to Monterey, but she convinced Mel to go on a trip to California. ‘It’ll be good to have company.’ She said to herself. ‘And a second driver.’ This thought cheered her even more, as though Jay loved driving a car, yet over long distances it happened that she let her mind to flow too freely.

    Immersed in her own thoughts, she didn’t pay much attention to the surrounding. She got to know local supernatural beings very well and she knew that she had nothing to fear from them. She herself was hiding her power effectively enough, so as far nobody knew who she was. But she had to give herself reprimand, when suddenly she was drawn into an empty classroom. ‘Guess architecture lectures are held here,’ it crossed her mind, ‘or maybe algebra?’ She resigned from further inquiries. She wasn’t able to focus when she felt strong, firm hands on her body, and her lips were being crushed in a greedy, passionate kiss.

    How can one think about mundane things at such a moment? Maybe it’s a kind of self-defense? Or a desperate attempt to stand both feet hard on the ground? But when you face unusual things every day, prosaic affairs seem to be boring.

    Though, she had to admit, that the kiss wasn’t mundane. Not at all!

    - Hello beautiful. – He whispered, when he took time to take a breath.

    She gave a quiet grunt of contentment when he kissed her greedily again. When she came back to Missoula, she was avoiding Bryan successfully for about a week. Next two weeks she spent on ignoring him, another one on treating him extensively. She had to give up and for next two days she fought with herself, treating him as her friend’s brother. And finally, she surrendered.

    How it’s possible, that when she was with him, she was becoming a stupid blonde, who’s not able to think about anything else, but the fact that Bryan is touching her? She even didn’t know at what moment she sank her fingers in his wonderfully soft hair, allowing herself to be carried away. She moaned softly when he slipped his hands under her blouse, and she bent her body into a bow to get even closer to him. She had the impression that in places where his hands touched her skin marks like after burns left. It was wonderful and she wanted more, but her common sense spoke again.

    - When I’m with you, I can’t focus. – She murmured in his ear when he started kissing deepening of her neck, just next to the wildly galloping pulse.

    - I can’t think of anything or anyone, but you. – He said, moving back enough to look into her eyes. They were incredibly hazy and looked like lakes obscured by fluffy white clouds. – You enslaved me with your glance. – He kissed her gently. – Intoxicated with your scent. – He placed another gentle kiss on her lips. – You possessed me with your spells. – This time he kissed her greedily, deeply.

    - Bryan! – She pushed him back a little bit, so as to calm down her pounding heart. Has he just accused her of putting spells on him? – I’d be glad to stay here, but I have history classes. – She smiled seductively and smoothed down his shirt. She tried hard not to show on her face thoughts that were swirling in her head.

    Everyone in Purple Creek called her grandma a witch. Only because she had a big herbal garden and liked crystals! Guess they even didn’t realize how much truth is in their gossip and mockery. And now, Bryan claims to be entangled by her witchcraft. Did he believe in what he said or, was she just an amazing enchanter for him, and his words were just a neat metaphor? What if she put a spell on him subconsciously?

    - Come over to my place today. – He said, trying so hard not to touch her again. – My annoying roommate is leaving for a whole weekend. We’ll have time just for us.

    - I’ll come. – She didn’t have to think over. Mel had already invited her beloved, so an option to spend ravishing moments with her boyfriend was much more encouraging than the prospect of listening to the wild orgy behind the wall.

    - See you in the evening then. – He kissed her goodbye, then he left the classroom leaving her alone with a feeling of hunger and mumble in her head.

    She looked at her watch. ‘Damn it!’ She cursed in thought and run down the corridor and stairs. She almost collided with the lecturer in the classroom doorway. She murmured some apology and took her place at the end of the classroom, but she had troubles to concentrate on the lecture. She thought of his words, which didn’t give her peace.

    Had she enchanted him in some way? Maybe she did it unconsciously? Is it possible at all? Such a prospect scared her. She would never do anything that would hurt Bryan in any way. And yet, somewhere in her subconscious, there was a quiet voice, which told her that maybe she would never done it on purpose, but by accident… But the worst thing was that feeling deep in her heart, that sooner or later she’ll hurt Bryan. And then, of which she was afraid the most, she may lose her friend.

    Forever.

***

    Mel was jumping, literally, up and down of joy, she was hugging Jay, kissing her, and hugging again. She was delighted with the prospect of spending the whole weekend alone with her latest love. Mel wasn’t a type of easy girl, who slept with anyone that gazed at her for more than five seconds, and who definitely would dump her after few crazy nights. She also wasn’t a girl, who changes lovers as often as one changes one’s clothes. Jay knew that her friend was desperately looking for a deep feeling, stability, faithfulness and reliance. Unfortunately, she showed too much of trustfulness, which so far was not deserved by any loggerhead with whom Mel met. Jay had got numbers of few straight away, but while trying to warn her friend she led to quarrels. That’s why she decided to allow Mel to make another mistake, and later on she’ll let her cry on lenient and compassionate friend’s shoulder. ‘Maybe I’ll kick his ass later?’ She smiled to her thoughts.

    - And where are you going to spend the weekend? – Mel suddenly broke away from choosing the appropriate lingerie for her boyfriend.

    - I’ll sleep at guys’ place. – She lied and was immediately surprised by the fact that it came so easily. – We need to discuss few things, besides, Jess and I have psychology test, so we need to study a bit. – Another lie.

    Jay’s notes were always meticulous, she kept them tidy. Thanks to it she had no problem to decipher them and she didn’t have to bother to study too hard, as she remembered most information from classes. Quick glance on notes and in her mind the whole lesson was played out. But it seemed that Mel didn’t pay too much attention to it.

    - I don’t understand why you need that psychology for. – She miffed. – But I’m glad you went for photography classes with me. Have you got any interesting work for credit? – She kept babbling, while they went to Jay’s bedroom.

    - I’ve got some quite good shots, - she said, leisurely packing the most necessary things, - but yet I may take some better photo, so I’ll prepare the final work the day before.

    - How can you take it so easily?! – Mel envied Jay her self-control and cool calculation ability. – What about books and notes? – She asked when her friend was fastening the bag. – How are you going to study this whole psychology? – She added when Jay looked at her confused.

    - Jess has everything at his place. – Though Mel surprised her, she didn’t give a damn. – Have a good time. – She hurried up before more awkward questions appeared. – And no sex in the kitchen and my bedroom. – She said in a warning tone.

    - What!? – Mel was indignant. – A makeshift bed on the floor by the fireplace will be enough. – She smiled clearly satisfied with her idea. Jay took the bag and headed for the stairs. – You should find yourself a boyfriend too. – Mel changed the topic while walking Jay to the door.

    - Maybe someday. – Jay still had hope that her friend won’t go on the subject.

    - Seriously! – Here we go! Nothing could discourage Mel to say what she thinks. – You behave like a lonely wolf! You don’t make friends with anyone!

    - I’ve got you. – Jay gave Mel a smile and hugged her tightly.

    - Thanks, but you perfectly know what I mean. – She wasn’t easy to brush aside. Not so fast. – You keep away from people, Jay! Many guys watch over you, some even ask me about you.

    - Cool. – She didn’t want her voice to be so full of impatience and sarcasm. – Listen, Mel. – She was trying to use the right words. – I’m satisfied with my life. So far. You’ll be the first to know if something will change. If I’ll like some guy, I guarantee, that I’ll ask you for advice how to seduce him. – She winked at Melanie. – And if no one will catch my eye, and I’ll miss my second half, I’ll count on you. – She smiled at impatient sigh of her friend.

    - Don’t wait too long. I’d like to go on double date before I’m thirty. – A bit of sarcasm was a good sign.

    - Don’t worry. If I won’t find a guy by then, you’ll be able to organize a date for me with a total moron. – ‘You’re like my sister,’ she added in mind.

    - You’re wonderful! – Because she was about to cry, Mel hugged Jay quickly and pushed her towards the door. – Go now, so you won’t drive at night. Besides, I’ve got to take long, hot bath before Rick will come.

    - I’m gone! – She shouted over her shoulder, walking towards the car.

    She threw the bag on the passenger seat and settled comfortably at the wheel of her Range Rover. Reliable and cozy – a car she needed. What’s more, it had spacious trunk, where she used to keep a bag with different types of weapon and second one with change clothes. You never know what and when can be useful. She turned the key, withdrew to the road and drove away with a squeak of tires.

    On the way she made a quick phone call to her brothers. She smiled as she heard Carter’s annoyed voice.

    - Hi angry stranger! – She greeted him with a half of laughter.

    - Hi beautiful! – Hearing his sister’s amused voice improved his mood straight away. – You’re coming? Welcome then! It’s always one more person to beat at poker.

    - Thanks, but I’m aware that I’ve got no chances with swindlers like you. – She loved to banter with him.

    - We don’t sully our reputation with cheat! – He made a gush. – Where are you going then?

    - Mel invited Rick for the weekend. I decided to run away before it would destroy my psychic. I’m going to a friend, Tessa.

    - Which one is that? – It sounded like suspicion, but Jay knew, that he’s interested in girl’s look.

    - The small blonde from history classes. – Jay had to admit, that making friends, even the fleeting ones, had its pluses. – I’ll be back on Sunday evening. If you need something catch me on mobile. Have a good time! Love ya! – She ended quickly before her bother managed to ask more questions.

    - Love ya too. - He said to himself hearing deaf sound in the handset. – Gentlemen! Let’s have a beer! – He shouted towards the living room where they indulged their favorite entertainment.

    - Take it with you and don’t forget ‘bout crackers and your ass! – Mark had good cards, and Carter seemed to have bad luck today, so he counted on good money. Weekend visit at brothers’ place appeared to be lucky for him.