Tru Calling

Tru Calling

Title: Harrison & Jack

(CRASH!) I glance up sure I would find Harrison sprawled across the floor. “Nice shot…I thought you were helping.” I smile at the form lying among the pile of files on the tiled floor of the morgue; it was definitely one of those slow days.

“Funny.” Harrison glances up hearing Tru walk into the room and pause to observe the current mess. “Not my fault…hers.” I pretend to be offended before she glances back and forth with her usual amused smile.

“How is it Akira’s fault?” Tru glances around her feet and spots the folder that she needs sure that Davis has some information for her. “Slow day, no repeats and another body to take to the funeral home.” She walks off quickly to Davis’s office leaving me to stare at Harrison.

I offer him my hand watching him glare pretending to be annoyed. “I can leave your sorry ass there Harry.” With this he accepts the offer and stands. “You clean; it is your mess and your own fault you didn’t watch where you were going. Wet floor sign is right there.” I add turning back to the files I was still fishing through, I really hate sorting month.

I stop in my work hearing my cell and turn to see who it is, not that I mind the interruption but I did have a lot left to sort yet. “Jack!” half smiling I see Harrison is quite active with his mess and sneak off to the hall to speak with Jack.

“Hey.” I giggle hearing him curse something in the background before clearing his voice.

“Hey…um…not my fault.” I smirk knowing he is obviously having an interesting day. “I was curious if you hand lunch plans?” I knew that would be coming but naturally I had to work with files all day.

“I’ve heard not my fault all morning. I have never known Harry to be so clumsy.” I sigh watching him through the office window easily lifting the boxes back onto my own work load. “I want to Jack…but its sort month and Harrison just made it more complicated.” I frown watching him again sprawl across the floor and stifle my laughter.

I hear Jack murmuring something in the background. “Make up an excuse…I have a surprise.” I felt the smile tug at my lips, I had been dating him for over three months now and he seemed very fond of surprises. “You know you can’t resist me.”

I did laugh then, granted he was sometimes smug but it suited him in a fashion. I know very well I can’t afford to but how can I say no? “Alright…but it can’t be long.” I hear a quick kiss and he hangs up. “How does he do it?” I shake my head going back into the office and see a grim look cross Davis’s face.

I didn’t want to know, those looks always meant more work and I have enough now. I return to my sorting hoping Davis doesn’t say what I know is coming, I have to meet Jack and can’t just cancel. I haven’t seen him in almost a week now because of this mess and wasn’t about to give it up just yet.

“Harrison, Akira?” I wince wishing I could leave right now. “I need Harrison to see if he can find out some information for me at the records office, Tru has classes all afternoon.” Harrison gives me a sidelong glance that means he feels exactly the same way I do, neither of us wants assignments. “Akira…you can take the rest of the day off if you want, I have enough files to double check before you start another stack.” I let the breath I was holding leave watching Davis return to his office.

Harrison scoffs giving me a look. “How did you get out of working more?” I smirk shrugging off his disgruntled look.

“I did more than you did?” I laugh at the amused look that crosses his face. “Besides…you have had three days off. I need a break already.” I turn leaning over the counter to grab my purse and sweatshirt.

While I fish for my shirt I am aware of eyes studying me intently, interested I turn around seeing Harrison standing there almost fidgeting. He knew I was dating someone but for some reason he still attempted to get me to at least eat lunch with him on occasion. He is a great friend, I would rather it stay that way. I return to gather my sweatshirt and feel a tap on my shoulder. “I knew he was going to ask.” I pull on my blue sweatshirt and turn to investigate his expression. “Here it comes…he really needs someone other than me to flirt with.”

Harrison clearly can see I am not going to accept. “I thought maybe lunch…but I assume that was your boyfriend calling?” I nod seeing his lips curve into a smile. “When are we going to meet him?” I shrug still trying to understand why I was hesitant in introducing Jack to my closest friends; I still had yet to sort out those visions of mine.

“He’s shy…maybe in time.” I smile before leaving the morgue and hoping to avoid Harrison’s amused looks.

Granted we were friends but sometimes I had the feeling there was more behind those looks than I cared to contemplate. I also did not want to discuss things about Jack with any of them, I haven’t been able to tell them of him since I had those conflicting really screwed up visions. I almost wish that Tru did have a repeat just to create less stress on me that day.

I make my way past the park where Jack had first kissed me and notice a familiar figure standing there with something in his arms. He knew I would escape from work, I could tell by that ever pleased smile on his face. I decide that just maybe a hard time is in order and walk over to greet him. Before he can lean in for his usual kiss I lean back and shake my head.

“You sneak…you knew I would get out of work.” I pull away again only to feel a hand firm on my wrist.

“I assumed you might…didn’t know it would happen.” Instead of fighting this time I allow him to pull me into a soft kiss, before eyeing the object in his arms. “Like I said surprise.” Noting he has my attention he walks across the park with me naturally following after.

I swear my curiosity is going to get the best of me one day. I keep walking noticing the park was nearly empty which was odd; it was a lovely day, sunny, bright and comfortable for a change. I see what the big surprise is or at least part of it and settle onto the blanket, he smirks watching me raise a brow at him. He pulls out takeout much to my amusement before eyeing the box in his arms again. I again wonder what is in it watching him reach out offering it to me.

I cautiously take the box studying it closely; the soft pale blue color catches my interest first. He knew my favorite colors by heart now, which meant he was either attempting to further our relationship or making a mockery of three months together. I knew better, he would never hurt me on purpose, he had admitted that once strangely enough it seems to still stick with me. Opening the box I pull out three red roses held by a white stuffed tiger, the card that flutters onto my lap reads ‘Surprise, Happy three months’. I laugh noticing his brow quirk before lowering them to the side and reaching across to give him a deep kiss.

He knew that I was easy to please but still hated the day I would find out about his past with Tru and how he really was. “That was nice…I should do that more often, the kisses get better each time.” I giggle giving him a playful slap before noticing a brief almost cloud come into his expression. “I’m glad you like it and am glad to celebrate. Love you.” I notice the cloud disappear and lean into his arm around my shoulders.

“I love you too Jack.” I bite my lip wondering if it is wise to bring it up again, he admits often that he would love to meet my friends but then comes up with a way out of it. “Harrison bothered me with the ‘when do we meet him’ question today. They’re all impossible, except for Tru…she let up.” I see that his smile fades only slightly. “Don’t be upset please.” I know he won’t be but it still hurt to see that smile fade at all.

“I’m not.” Jack is distant but I know very well it’s because he is thinking. “I want to…” he pauses considering something, his expression is so contemplative I wonder if he’s afraid of what I may think or something worse. “…I have a past with Tru and the others.” I notice him stiffen seeing his lips form a thin line. “I never told you because I didn’t want their opinions to change yours of me, they do not like me at all. I can’t say why and…” I meet those familiar blue eyes noting how much trouble he has telling me this. “…I don’t want us to change; I have to keep the rest to myself.” I can see that last part seems to break his heart, but then remember the strange visions I had in the past.

“I understand.” I whisper seeing his face reflect surprise. “Thank you for telling me what you can…” it is my turn to hesitate. “…To be honest, I don’t want this to change. I like it better having you all to myself.” I want to ask him about my visions but don’t dare betray the secret that Tru and I share; I decide it is best to let things remain as they are. “Now that we have thoroughly spoiled our anniversary…may I suggest we do something less depressing?” His brow again lifts watching me closely.

Gently I take his hand in mine and tug on him until he stands beside me. “Let’s walk.” I smile grasping my tiger and wrap my arm around his waist. “Thank you for the whole romantic event. It means a lot to me Jack.” I kiss him attentively, it was the first time I had ever felt so close to anyone and the pain of that slipping through my fingers drove the discussion from my mind.

--Next Day--

I again found myself sorting files carefully avoiding any questions about Jack. I decided that I would call him ‘Jared’ for addressing questions and such. It didn’t make this secret from my friends any easier but it was necessary to stay together. I just need to come up with a plan to keep them from wanting to meet him so badly, unless I could talk to Tru and find a way to get both sides of the story.

“Shit!” I laugh watching Harrison again sprawl across the floor, I swear he never observes that big yellow sign. “Am I always your source of amusement?” I nod watching Tru enter at this point before glancing back and forth between us. “Hi sis.”

She smirks watching him climb to his feet. “I know you like Akira Harrison, but please stop falling for her.” I know that I am red; even if I am with someone I will admit Harrison is kind of cute.

I laugh at the dirty look exchanged between siblings before we all glance up at the latest arriving body. “Tru?” she stops the newest truck driver with a concern in her eyes.

Lifting the sheet her eyes widen at the crumpled, crushed, and mangled form of a girl. “Help Me!”

--Repeat--

“Repeat.” I immediately watch her gaze turn to the door as a body is rolled into the morgue. She nods before rushing to Davis’s office; this leaves Harrison glancing between us with a defeated look on his face. “Stop falling for me alright.” I add with a smile before walking after her.

Harrison flushes with a scowl but continues to work leaving us to deal with the usual drama. There wasn’t much to go on because of the fact neither of us had gotten much information on the woman before she asked for help, all I had gotten was she was mangled beyond reason and I did not like the images that wouldn’t leave my mind. Davis drilled both True and I for information but neither of us had much.

“Considerably difficult case.” I watch Tru wince observing the body that wasn’t our victim closely. “No id or name to go on…how are you two going to find her?” I glance at the clock sighing when I see it is seven in the morning, which gives us four hours tops according to the driver that had brought her in before repeat.

“I will go to the girls’ apartment…I at least got that much glancing over the clipboard before hand.” Tru nods already gathering some things from her memory, I remember the text on a box of matches from the victim before and recognize the club. “Trillion Club…” I pause biting my tongue in relief before thinking over what I was to say next. “…Jared and I went there last week, nice place and fun.” Tru smiles almost like she has a plan. “What?”

“You have to meet Jared for breakfast?” I shake my head no; we hadn’t planed to meet until dinner. “Good…I need you to go to the Trillion Club; you know it and I will do the going to apartment thing. Harry!” I jump at her sudden risen voice and internally groan before giving her a look. “He’s falling for you left and right…put his flirting to use on the waitress’s down there.”

I smile sometimes Tru was devious and I loved her for it. “Right.” I see Davis is already examining the recent delivery, I find myself glad it isn’t the girl again. “Her name was…” I pause trying to recollect the name. “…Raina Hunter. Yaa!” I jump turning to give Harrison an evil look, I hate when he gooses my sides. “Harry…don’t make me hurt you.” I warn seeing Tru roll her eyes familiar with this event.

Before events get out of hand Tru grasps both our arms and leads us to the door, I can’t help but give her a meaningful ‘I am killing your brother look’. She knows me too well though and easily shoves us along our way. I am tempted to slap Harrison but know better because it will only bring more irritation for me. I walk to my blue jeep and slam the door hearing Harrison’s laughter at my show of temper. “Laugh now, before long you will be falling and it won’t be because of that ‘wet floor’ sign.” I smile at the dark thought before driving into traffic which is slower than usual.

It takes us nearly an hour to get to the Trillion Club. I am near ready to run over anyone in my way by the time I pull into the clubs parking lot, Harrison keeps pushing my buttons making this a worse day. I smack him in the back of the head before slamming my car door on my exit. I feel better now, at least until I come face to face with a pole and groan painfully. I rub my forehead determined to not let it get to me, I feel a hand on my shoulder and turn seeing Harrison for once has a worried look on his features.

“I’m fine.” I gently remove his hand sure I see a slight sad look on his face before marching to the club.

For the owners sake he had better be in a cooperative mood. I send Harrison off to flirt information out of the waitress’s; I don’t need that near sad look to haunt my mind for the next three hours. We only have three hours before she dies now and things just kept looking worse. No clues to the mystery and neither of us were sure that Tru had found Raina Hunter as of yet.

(THUD) I turn to the sound watching Harrison helping a woman pick up a tray she had just dropped full of napkin holders. “We’re not open yet miss.” I turn to the voice seeing a rather short pudgy man eyeing me; his beady green eyes remind me of a lizard staring me down.

“I know.” I add hearing the sarcasm in my own voice. “I just wondered if you knew my friend? Raina Hunter. I was supposed to meet…

“I fired Raina last night.” Hiss beady eyes before brushing at his black suit like it was delicate material. I saw his gaze roving up and down my body, this brought about the urge to resist throttling him. “We’re hiring if you are interested miss?”

“Not saying.” I turn hearing Harrison murmuring to a waitress before his head snaps up noting my irritation. “Come on Harry.” I can feel Sleazes eyes on me but resist the urge to do anything, it would not be a good idea to get locked up and risk Ms. Hunter’s life.

Once outside I know Harrison won’t let me get by without some sort of explanation. His concern and affection was strangely comforting, except I found myself wishing Jack was there instead. I missed him. I turn seeing eyes linger on my face and surrender.

“Sleazy club owner…” I pause considering this information wondering if he’s behind her possible death. “…He claimed to fire Raina last night and that is all I got before he decided to check me out, offer me a job and probably other things.” I wrinkle my nose already sure I would have popped the weasel in the nose if he had kept things up.

I saw a dark look cross Harrison’s face wondering why he fought so hard for my honor, affections and attention. It never ceases to amaze me how much he cares, even if I have a boyfriend. I find this endearing; I again wish he would find someone for himself and even consider asking one of my friends to give him a chance. I stop in front of my car sure that today was not going to work out well. I have this unnerving feeling that the end of Raina is in that club, I just do not know who is responsible. The club owner tops my list of suspects though; call me biased but that man bugs me.

Driving back toward the city morgue I see Harrison’s jaw clench and wonder what has him so mad. “Harry?” he turns to me but then focuses ahead again. “What is up?” I see him turn again out of the corner of my eye, he looks frustrated.

“Do you love Jared?” I nearly slammed on the breaks surprised to hear the question.

I decide to pull off the road knowing this conversation was going to get complicated. Thankfully there is a donut shop and it isn’t too busy. I turn off the car and face Harrison, his expression is intent, jaw set giving me a close inspection.

I never thought this would happen. “Why do you need to know?” I didn’t want to dance around things but I felt it wasn’t really his concern.

He fidgets expression softening before sighing. “I wanted to know so…” he faltered watching me closely. “…I can move on.” He finally added with reluctance.

Despite his tone I smile watching his brow quirk in that curious fashion of his. “Harry…I like you fine, but yes I do love Jared. If things were different you would have a good chance.” I hate hurting him but honesty was the best way to keep his friendship. “You need yourself a girl that you can fall for, just not literally. I think the floor has your impression in it.” He smiles even if the situation isn’t entirely funny.

“Adorable Akira, really.” He adds dryly before turning to the sound of a car honking. “Tru?” I lean across him to see Tru pull in beside us with another woman in her car. “That must be Raina.” He adds rubbing his neck absently.

I climb from the car ignoring the strange feeling I have after that conversation. I had no idea that Harrison liked me in that sense; I suspected it of course but that just blew me away. Harrison steps up beside me watching a girl with wavy blonde hair step from Tru’s car, green eyes flashing with a bright bubbly smile. “Perky…not my thing.” Tru knew I hated perky people, this was not going to be a drop her off on me I hoped.

Tru sees it in my expression before I even say a word; she knows I am not happy to see Ms. Bubbly at all. “Harry, Akira…” she gives me a forced smile. “…Raina Hunter.” She turns to the happy girl at her side who immediately giggles offering her hand.

“Nice to meet you both.” Raina seems to sense my dislike for the happy because her smile fades ever so slightly. “Is there something…

“No.” Harrison quickly intervenes deciding this would be a conversation better held elsewhere. “Akira had a bad encounter with someone at the Trillion Club…real sleaze.” Tru quirks a brow realizing that she had to talk with me immediately. “Raina come with me, lets let these two talk it out.” She brightens accepting Harrison’s invitation and both walk to the donut shop clearly talking about something other than his sister and me.

Tru’s dark eyes narrow at me concern in her expression. “What happened to get you so pissed off?” I smile slightly at her bluntness; clearly I was wearing my emotions in the open yet again.

“Her ex-boss is a real creep. He was checking me out for a position; I don’t think it was club management if you get my drift.” I watch her wrinkle her nose a scowl present on her face. “He’s a real peach; I wouldn’t be surprised if he wasn’t the problem.” I know my sarcasm is thick and try to soften my tone for my own sake. “I need out of here for a bit. Can you handle perky?” She nods knowing by my tone I am not having a pleasant day.

I return to my car leaving Tru and the others at the donut drive. The girl will be safe with them; at this point I need some time to myself. I find I am missing Jack again and wonder what he’s up to. Dialing his number on my cell I pull over to the side of the road, maybe he is just the cure for my miserable day.

One ring, two rings, and nothing; I sigh defeat in my entire body. Lowering my head to the wheel I consider retreating to my home for a half hour to sort my thoughts. I still have images from my anniversary with Jack floating in my mind making me smile; sadly the darker ones never seem to leave the back of my mind. There is more to Jack than even I will ever truly understand, I doubt our relationship just for a moment and then glare ahead at the busy traffic. “What the hell is wrong with me?” frustration seems to pool from my whole body, a bad vibe claiming my very cheerful mood.

I lift my cell smiling. “Jack.” I hear him chuckle and find it brings another smile to my face, he always knows how to make me feel better. “I miss you…are you busy?” I know it’s a bad time to ask him that, he was usually very busy during the afternoons.

He can hear the tone to my voice, I’m not happy at all. “I am, but you sound like you need someone.” His voice is soft he knows I’m pissed. “What’s wrong hon?” I again smile at his worry.

“Life in general.” I feel the smile leave my lips, Harrison’s words coming back to haunt me again. “Can we talk?” I sound meek compared to my usual, I was begging to see him and that was very unusual for me.

“She’s really upset.” He hesitates wondering if he dares to risk things. “Yes.” He is surprised he lets his resolve go so easily. “Where are you?” I glance out of my car and am reminded why I hate busy cities, even if I currently reside in one.

“Near ‘Donuts N Drinks’…I can meet you at the McDonald’s.” I could use a chocolate shake, chocolate cures all depressing thoughts.

“Be there in ten minutes.” I hear a click and smile; he didn’t ever seem far off when he was working.

An uneasy thought come to mind with that but I brushed it aside, doubting my boyfriend was something I did not want to get into. I reflected on how he was always there when I needed him most, I was very fond of Jack and he had somehow got into my heart. Images of Harrison’s strangely sad expression was again lurking in my vision, shaking my head I turned onto the road and headed to McDonalds. I need a break from thinking in general was part of the reason I needed Jack; he was good at soothing me at times like this.

I step out of my car walking into the familiar building. It was quiet for lunch rush and I had my shake in no time. I walk over to a table the farthest away from any people, kids, noise and emotion in general. I watch out the window and smile, Jacks black jeep pulls in and he is running through traffic to get to the restaurant. I wait allowing thoughts I would rather not focus on to come back to mind, I for some reason wish that I got to know Harrison better before getting caught up with the whirlwind known as Jack. Something in his eyes seemed to pick at my brain forcing me to nearly miss the man I love sit down in front of me.

I smile watching his grin broaden staring at my shake. “Chocolate, I know something is up now.” He laces his hand with mine kissing it softly keeping his eyes level with mine. “What is it Akira?”

I debate on whether I should tell him about Harrison. It was hard to tell my boyfriend that my best friends’ brother was infatuated with me, even worse when I thought of him as a dear friend. I know my face isn’t convincing him I’m fine and feel his lips against my hand again. “I hate when he does that.” Those tender gestures of his always make me crack. I sigh noting my lips don’t turn into the reassuring smile I’m desperate to give him.

I make my decision hoping it’s the right one. “Harry confronted me today on my relationship with you…” I pause seeing his brow arch curiously. “…he likes me, that I know and he hasn’t tried to hide it. He explained to me that he needed to know my feelings so that he could move on.” I meet his gaze to reassure him all is alright between us. “I told him yes I am in love with you, I also indicated we would always be friends and that he needs to have his own girl. Preferably not me.” I decide to tell him the rest of the day’s events, keeping out Tru and my obvious gifts.

Jack knows the club and a slight frown crosses his lips. He hates it that I’m always involved, he is sure that one day this will blow up for both of us. He ignores those thoughts again plaguing his mind smiling.

“He always had a way with the ladies.” I smack his arm nearly again melting when his lips brush my knuckles, he has far too much of a magnetic pull on me. “Sounds like you need to just take a day off and let Tru and them deal with their own problem…” he pauses tilting his head a familiar smile crossing his lips, I know he is up to something. “…why don’t you go over to my place and hideout there for the day? I will bring home another surprise and we can just lounge together?” that offer was so tempting, I couldn’t just abandon them like that.

“You are evil Jack.” I giggle softly seeing his expression turn offended in a playful way. “I want to…I can’t leave Tru hanging like that. Does it stand if I finish work early?” I know there is mischief in my expression; he clearly sees it because his smile broadens.

“Always.” He glances down at his watch a frown puckering his expression. “I need to get back…otherwise things won’t go well at work.” I smile kissing him softly before he leaves me reluctant to let go of my hand.

I sit there for a few minutes, I feel so much better and know even if I hate it I have to get back to Tru. I quickly return to my car but pause noting one of my tires is flat, I lean down to investigate the problem finding the air has been let out. “Someone sabotaged my car.” It may have been a ridiculous thought at the moment, but when things like what I dealt with often were happening, like today this was a probability. I swore kicking my tire before reaching into my purse to call Tru.

I hear static and then Harrison is on the phone. “Harry…I need help, my car has a flat and…” I glance down eyeing the tire carefully. “…I think it was on purpose.” I hear Ms. Hunter giggle in the background and roll my eyes.

“Hey?” I smile relieved that Tru is on the phone now. “I’ll be there to get you in a second, but Raina will be with me.” I flinch; I didn’t want to deal with perky at all.

I knew she was in danger but I was never one for super cheery people. “Right, I can deal just get me the hell out of McDonald’s parking lot please.” I hear her laugh before the phone call ends. “Damn it all, today is just blah.” I sit inside my car and wait.

I wait for about twenty minutes, it’s now two hours before Raina is suppose to end up a mangled pile of flesh. I wince remembering how she had been before the day repeated, it was always odd to see them living, healthy and in her case perky knowing what can happen. I see Tru pull in and watch Harrison immediately come over to fix my tire; he offers me a grin before getting to work. Raina is oddly quiet watching me with wary eyes, clearly first impressions lasted longer than I had intended.

Tru can see that I am not approachable but sees I can see Raina’s fear of me. “Raina, would you like to ride with me to the park? They’re having a craft fair today and I could use the company.” She smiles nodding clearly I had improved my standing with her in seconds.

I find her a sweet girl, but still am hesitant about her perky nature. “Tru?” at her name she glances at me with a strange expression in her face. “What is it?”

“Nothing.” She ignores my concern seeing Jack lingering in the shadows not far off, her frown deepens knowing what he is up to. “I’ll meet up with you guys later. Harry stay with them?” he nods already spotting Jack in the distance.

I can feel her anger but know it isn’t directed at any of us. She clearly has something to clear up before we solve the murder case we are working on; I just hope that Raina survives long enough for us to figure out who the killer really is. I watch Harrison finish up the work with the spare; Raina is already in the car waiting on us both. Something in Harrison’s expression bothers me enough to ask.

“Harry?” he attempts to avoid my gaze, I am not letting him. “Please Harry?” he relents my softer than usual voice seems to get him every time.

Reluctant to speak the unanswered truth he sees that I’m not letting him off the hook. “There is someone out there always trying to stop Tru from saving people, he sort of undoes what she tries to prevent. It’s like the battle of the gods or something…don’t get involved Akira. I wasn’t suppose to say anything.” He adds a pleading note there which I nod in confirmation to.

“Who is he?” I need to know that much, my heart is already breaking because I have the suspicion I know who it is.

The worst part of this all is it could very well end what Jack and I have. I love him greatly but if his mission is to stop Tru than I have to end it, I can’t love someone willing to be the grim reaper when there is someone like Tru out there fighting it.

“Someone that used to work with Tru…” he pauses something in my expression clearly bugging him. “…Jack.” That one word was all it took.

--A Half Hour Later--

I felt my head pounding but wasn’t sure what had happened. Slowly I began to remember and desperately wished with all my now broken heart that I didn’t. The images whirling through my mind made sense now, sadly everything made sense. I recognize Harrison’s voice and could hear Raina also talking; clearly she was clueless to what had transpired between Harrison and me earlier.

Harrison pauses in his conversation to reassure Raina. “It was just a surprise; she’s going to be fine.” I knew he was driving my jeep, I swore never to let him behind the wheel again after he dinged the door but at this point I didn’t care.

I am drowning in my own self pity now; Jack was the one trying to stop my friends from saving the world in a matter of speaking. The man I was in love with was destroying what I know; all the pieces to the puzzle have finally landed in place. I felt my tears roll down my face, it felt like a weight was crushing my heart into nothing, how could this happen? I hear the car stop and shut off, we are now at the park. Raina leaves the car and waits while Harrison gently touches my shoulder; I flinch away from the contact on impulse but know I’m going to have to answer a lot of questions.

Someone doesn’t just faint over some name. “Akira?” reluctantly I meet those eyes; I feel more tears blur my vision and sit up. “Jared is actually Jack isn’t he?” I nod; sometimes it shocks me how truly perceptive Harrison can be. “I’m sorry I had to do that…” his pause makes me face him even if I don’t want to. “…I had my suspicions, I just didn’t want to hurt you.” I could hear the crack in his voice, Harrison was hiding the fact he really did care and this again reminded me of those haunted expressions he often had.

I choke back a sob before forcing a half smile. “Thank you Harry.” My voice is cracking, my heart is breaking and now I’m face to face with the worst news ever. “I should have known…I guess I just clung to my rose colored glasses.” I sniffle rifling through my bag and lift out several tissues.

I hear the car open and know he’s left me to be. My world shatters in those few minutes and yet I can’t bring my heart to believe it. I know it is true but how can I just toss away those feelings? I lift my cell seeing a number I was not ready to see again, it brings more tears to my eyes.

“Akira?” I whimper his voice so comforting even if I know he is now my enemy. “What’s wrong sweetie?” it wasn’t often he used the pet names; he knew I was super upset and crying.

I want to answer him so badly; I know my voice isn’t strong enough. “N-Nothing.” I manage yet it is only a choked sound.

I hear silence briefly thinking he had hung up on me. There’s a sigh and I know he has a good idea of what is wrong. “You know.” It wasn’t a question, he knew just by his tone. “Can we talk about this before…

“Before?” my voice again cracks but his tone makes my heart pummel to my toes.

“I’m sorry Akira.” A sob passes my lips, he is so sincere yet he isn’t going to let Raina be. “I will talk to you after this.” I hear the click and finally burst into tears.

I cry for a long time, I wonder where I went wrong when I stumbled into the arms of a murderer or whatever Jack really was. My secret is out, my heart is broken, and a girl’s life is on the line. I pull myself together as best as I can and climb from the car. Raina is watching the festival while Harrison waits on me. She clearly knows something is up but minds her own business, which I am grateful for. The three of us start toward the laughing people below, my heart keeps sinking further and further though.

All the smiling faces keep bringing tears to my eyes, I just lost the love of my life and it seemed the world was happy over this. An arm almost cautiously wraps around my shoulders, I’m now aware that I’m still sobbing. Silently but still I’m shaking all over and the tears refuse to stop. Harrison studies me through my blurred vision before his arm tightens protectively around me.

I know Jack is around somewhere, if all the visions were true than he would be waiting for the moment that Raina needs to die. I can guess he is watching us, watching Harrison keep his arm firmly locked around me, protecting me from the world. I can’t lock away my broken heart now though. Raina gets excited over the Gypsy show that is part of the festival which leaves us to stay close and watch her amused display.

She is so innocent and childish I can’t understand why anyone wants to kill her. I can’t stop the tears and my throat is raw but here I am waiting for the inevitable. I get to watch my friends face of with Jack, the worse possibility is that I never see him again. I fish for another tissue in an attempt to pull myself back together, Harrison has one at the ready offering me a sympathetic look. “I don’t need pity.” I duck from his arm making sure to keep my hand raised to prevent him attempting to calm me again; I hurt too much for any contact right now.

Raina is gone from our sight; Harrison is the first to notice. “Damn it.” I watch him scan the crowd and swallow hard; I didn’t need this to happen. “Stay here in case she comes back.” Nodding I watch him disappear into the crowd, it all feels like a bad dream to me.

He is faced with a decision he hoped to never make and reluctantly turns away from me. I see Jack retreating into the crowd, it pains me to know that this is what ends everything we have but I won’t let him just reach out and take her life. The whole life is cruel concept gets me; sadly it rips me apart while I make my way easily through the crowd. “Harry said to wait.” I stop turn back to where I was and then back to where Jack disappeared into the crowds. He could be leading me away so Raina gets killed, the images of what she had been through flash in my mind again. “Heart? Innocent life?” it isn’t a tough decision but my pain drives me to lean toward the first more than the last, luckily common sense wins out.

I slam into a figure among the crowd groaning painfully at the impact. “I’m so sorry Akira.” Raina looks down at me sheepishly before offering me a hand. “I got lost.” I sit there watching her for a minute before getting to my own feet.

“I wish you would get lost.” I didn’t need bitter thoughts right now, I would have a great deal more to face than I wanted to for one day. “No problem…” I see Jack again but decide it is time to face the truth. “…Let’s go find Harry.”

I keep my hand locked on her arm gliding through the small swarm of people. There were lots of threats around us, not to mention I was very sure of one set of eyes close by. I need to find Harrison and get Raina to safety; I can deal with my personal life later.

“HARRY! AKIRA!” I turn to Tru’s voice; I see her making her way toward us but am not sure where Harrison is.

I shriek startled by a hand on my shoulder only to see Harrison offering me a small smile. “Harry…” my warning is cut short when Raina ducks from beside us nearly charging into the crowd, something spooked her and we were still clueless. “RAINA!” I shout turning to go after her.

Tru and Harrison are at my heels all three of us dodging past people to catch up with the frantic woman. I wonder who frightened her so much; I was sure that the overly happy girl wouldn’t have too many enemies. I have been wrong before, recent events showing my track record isn’t so pleasant. Harrison goes one way, while I stay close to Tru both of us spotting Raina in the distance.

“Be careful.” Tru is gone before I can share my sarcastic thoughts.

Like I had to fear Jack, he would not hurt me in the sense she was warning me over. Raina on the other hand clearly had to worry. I was stopped by a strong grip on my arm turning sharply to face off with my attacker. “Jack!” the stinging starts in my eyes again but I shake him off racing after Raina, let him suffer.

I hear a scream and run toward the sound. Raina is cornered by three men with particularly nasty looking weapons, from what I see she had been beaten to death before asking for help. This time it wouldn’t repeat because Tru and Harrison were also there hearing her cry. Raina fell to the ground clutching her arm; we just missed the first blow to her before Davis joined us with security.

A long depressing event suspended, the others seem pleased and I know I should be; but I’m not. Jack betrayed me, he hurt me and now I have to face him tonight. I’m not the type to just go off without a reason; I’m too stubborn in nature for that. Harrison nods watching me before he proceeds to keep the others attention from my dilemma. I make note to thank him later, he’s really a sweet guy under all the sarcasm and arrogance.

--Jacks Place--

I felt like I was trespassing, his apartment was silent with the only light being from the streets. I let myself in with the spare key knowing he couldn’t hide forever; Jack would eventually come to find out where this whole relationship stood. “We’re through.” The finality in that notion bothered me, I still love him and that’s the hardest part.

The room in shadows now reminded me of our relationship, one large creeping shadow now exposed to the light. I didn’t take in the familiar apartment; it wouldn’t matter anyway due to the tears that continuously left their mark down my cheeks.

Door opens and shuts revealing the familiar sound of him shuffling into the apartment, I hear him pause and note the soft sigh escape behind me. “Should I ask you Jack?” I listen to the keys drop onto the table.

He knows it isn’t worth hurting me any longer, yet it hurts to know that this could be it. This isn’t suppose to happen, secrets do hurt far more than anyone truly realizes. He can’t seem to form words, I hear his steps come toward me but refuse to even face him. Hesitation is prominent in each movement; each breath and I know the fear he has. It’s too late though, what we have is now over. I can’t continue to love someone doing the opposite of what Tru and the rest of us do so hard to fight.

“I wanted to tell you…” he pauses when I step away from his touch, this is not going to end well for either of us. “…I knew because of your nature and them that you wouldn’t understand.” His voice is hurt; I feel tears renew their trip down my cheeks.

“Why don’t you try to make me understand?” My tone is sharp, I turn seeing his expression is deeply hurt and I can’t seem to care at the moment.

For just a moment I believe he will tell me what is so wrong with saving lives, saving people that were taken to early in their lives. I want to understand why he has to fight Tru; I need to understand this whole screwed up mess that has killed what we have.

Jacks expression turns defeated his eyes searching mine. “I can’t.” it is low but I hear him clearly, I feel my heart finally completely shatter and know that this is it.

I take a breath and try to keep what is left of my dignity. “You won’t…I can’t do this Jack.” I turn walking toward the exit. “We’re done, I want to say I’m sorry but I can’t.” with that I close the door behind me and continue from the apartment.

Once I climb into my car I allow myself to completely crack, sobs raking my body and tears blinding me. Fury, pain and betrayal the only thing that I can feel; it’s crushing me to the brink of screaming to the skies and I don’t know how I can deal with this now.

My cell rings harshly cutting through my anguish, for just a brief moment I hope it’s him coming to explain why he ripped apart my heart. “Harrison.” Despite everything I smile, maybe he could help me since he is the only one that knows what is going on for the moment. “Hi Harry.” I choke out feeling more tears stream down my face.

“Where are you Akira?” he is worried, it’s hard not to miss it in his voice.

I glance up at Jacks apartment frowning seeing no light or signs of life. “Falling apart.” I add sniffling slightly before grasping a tissue and drying my face. “What’s up?”

I hear a sigh and again smile at his endearing nature even if I am falling apart. “Falling apart isn’t an address…I’m on the bus looking for you down near where he used to live.” I hear the noise in the background and sigh miserably. “Does he still…

“Yes Harry. I’m currently outside falling apart; you shouldn’t have hopped a bus looking for me. Tru will be suspicious and right now I’m not ready for…

“I didn’t tell Tru anything.” His voice cuts me off with a weary note. “I’m your secret keeper until your ready. Right now you need a friend and Tru isn’t the best of choices.” I scowl at his blunt way at pointing that out but feel a warm feeling from his well hidden softer side. “I see your car.” I hear a click and glance up in time to see him step from the bus.

I watch him run down the street getting closer and briefly wonder if this is the best of his ideas. Jack was close by and I really didn’t want any fights going on, I had enough to deal with. I consider Harrison’s insistence to be there when I need him and step from the car in defeat. “He’s more stubborn than Tru herself.” I feel like my whole face is glued with tears and that what is left of my energy just dove out into the world around me. I will spend the next few days feeling down, I never have been this close to someone before.

Harrison stops in front of me and I finally glance up. “Shit.” I try to smile but fail. “No offense but you look like hell.” I give him a look even if I know its true, I felt like a china doll dropped from a twenty story building.

I snivel again feeling the sobs building up. “Yeah I know Harry.” I lean back against my car staring at the thick storm covered sky, rain would be perfect for the mood I am in.

“I’m taking you home.” I start to protest but his arm moves around my shoulders leading me to the passenger side. “You are not going to stay here all night in hopes he comes to his senses…” he paused opening my door and waits for me to get in. “…I hat to say it, but he won’t.” his voice is soft, not meant to hurt me further but it does anyway.

Fresh tears sting my eyes while I nod hearing my door shut. What a way to end a day.

The End.