"I don't care how far you run, how much you hide, how different you look. I will get my money back, whether you are dead or alive."

N A S H            07/4/23  2:45 AM

4 months. 4 continuous months, without a moment of peace. I stared at my tired reflection in my rearview mirror, rubbing my bleak eyes. How much longer can I even do this? Will my body even hold up? By the looks of it, I'm already appearing ill.

Heavy purple bags pulled at my eyes, my lips were a bit pale and dry. Though, isn't it a sweet blessing the adrenaline keeps me going?

I glanced around, making sure none of them were around, before putting my car in drive and hitting the gas.

8 hours of driving and I've made it to Virginia. I haven't been to this part, except once to visit Xian's 2nd house, and that was it. It feels strange to end up here, but it works out. I've got somewhere to go and somewhere to crash just for a little.

I doubt they'll figure that out for a couple hours, it's well hidden. Xian is smart. Well, sometimes. Even if this is his fault..

-

I sped down the dark roads, hoping that my scrambled memory was correct. It's so late, and I haven't slept in a bed in days.. I could barely recall my own name.

Soon, the mailbox I had seen before came into view and I hit my brakes. Xian's truck was parked in the driveway too- Oh thank God..

Oh, finally a bed, food, a different atmosphere than this leather car interior... I parked into his driveway, scurrying out of my 1970 dodge charger.

I locked the doors, stretching out my limbs after being cramped for hours. I rushed to his front door, ringing the doorbell and knocking at least 15 times.

His dog started to bark, first snarling and then howling. "Xian- I'm alive, let me in..!" I yelled, not loud enough for any of the neighbors to hear. He does have a large yard and a lot of space..

Despite my grand gesture to wake him, it was radio silent excluding his dog. Shouldn't she wake him..?

Nevertheless, I kept knocking, growing rougher as I grew more impatient."Xian!"

Soon, the side of my hand turned red from the pounding and my arm felt like it weighed two tons. I give up...

I skimmed around his porch, looking for the spare key. He couldn't be so foolish to slip it under the rug, could he..?

I lifted his welcome mat, and thank goodness it wasn't. Though, I honestly wished it was... I leaned up as something shiny on his plant's leaf caught my eye.

You're kidding me, how is that any better..?

Though, now is no time to complain. I snatched it up and rushed to unlock his door. As soon as it was unlocked, I shoved it open. Finally, cool air conditioner..-

Foot steps started to get closer, but they sounded much like someone running.

"I am giving you one stern clear warning." Xian growled, his southern voice sounded much more threatening than I anticipated, making me inch back.

"Woah- Xian, it's me!" I yelled to the figure pointing a gun at me. I couldn't see Xian well in the dark, so I wonder if he could tell who I was- is that the problem?

The gun was held up for a few seconds too long before Xian let out a weak chuckle. "Nash... What're you doing here..?" Xian groaned, dropping his arm to his side. He rubbed his eyes, the gun still in hand. I cringed, biting my lip as his sweet dog jumped to greet me. My heartbeat began to slow as I calmed down.

"I'm still running... Can I sleep here..?" I asked and Xian sighed."Go to Coal's room, he has some clothes you can borrow, and get some water in the kitchen, don't be loud.." His speech was a bit slurred as he stumbled away back down the hall.

"Thank you.." I furrowed my brows at the way he was acting. I guess I'm used to daytime and nightlife Xian, not woken up and fearing his life Xian. It feels strange to see him like this.

"Oh- lock my door, will you? Don't want to have to shoot one of the scoundrels.." He yawned as I heard the squeak of his bed, I assume he collapsed back into it.

"Sure.." I sighed, grabbing the spare key and closing the door. I locked it and started my way to Coal's bedroom.

Xian's home smelt of pine and smoke, it was tidied for once which gave away Coal must have been here with him not too long ago.

I opened his bedroom, it was decorated, not a thing out of place, and his bed had not even one wrinkle in the sheets. Too bad I'm gonna ruin it..

I kicked off my shoes, and stripped my black shirt, digging through Coal's drawers to find a new one. Blue, green, red... White, perfect. I slipped it on and relaxed. Finally, that is so much better.

I fell into the comfy bed, smiling. My back felt like it had melted into the sheets, for the first time in months it wasn't aching like someone was stepping on it.

Sweet sleep...

-

"Good morning, good morning, good morning!" Xian sang across the house as I rolled over. I covered my ears and groaned.

I forgot what it's like to stay with Xian...

"Nash, oh Nash~!" Xian was closer now, I could feel his presence as he stepped into the room. He radiated everywhere he went. You'd know when he wasn't there.

"What do you want for breakfast, shall I cook?" He asked, the bed dipping where he sat. "I guess.." I shrugged, pinching my eyes shut. "Oh, get up." Xian grabbed the back of my shirt and pulled me up.

I shot my eyes open and stared at him, his sharp green eyes lacked any mercy for me and my desire for sleep. But as he stared, his expression began to change from the playfully mean to concern.

"Gosh, you look bad.." He hissed through his teeth, letting go of me. "I'll make breakfast, and coffee- and water- And take a shower in a bit too.." Xian stood up, brushing his ginger hair back as he kept the look on his face as he walked away.

I glanced at the mirror, biting my cheek as I saw my reflection. The sunshine made me look more sick than I thought... Or maybe it's just how I look in broad daylight.

I examined the tattoos across my left arm, a cuts the size of rice covered one of them along with a few bruises varying in color.

I pushed myself up from the bed, my back ached all the way to its core as I tried. I winced, clenching my hands as I breathed out of my mouth.

"Xian- where is your... Painkillers?"

-

I sat at Xian's kitchen table, struggling to eat the pancakes and bacon sat in front of me. I couldn't have painkillers on an empty stomach, Xian's demand.

"Are you not hungry..?" Xian asked, sitting across from me as I shrugged."I haven't ate much in a while. This is more than I usually had."

Xian nodded, tilting back in his chair. "No wonder you're getting thin." He pointed out, to which I just returned a cold stare.

I shoved a piece of pancake into my mouth, him keeping eye contact with me. "Ferocious." He teased, making me roll my eyes.

I glanced around, seeing a picture of Coal and Xian on the wall. "Hey, where is Coal?" I asked, resting my elbow against the table. Xian sighed, placing his arms behind his head.

"He's been at Mich's for a few days. I tried to convince him to come back but he was determined to stay. Probably cause of Zayda." He shrugged, pulling his knee up to his stomach.

I nodded. "So, I've tried to call you. What's up with you not answering?" He asked, making me pause. I met his eyes again, furrowing my brows. "Xian, I had to throw my phone away so they didn't track me." I explained, I'm sure my tone showed my annoyance. Though, Xian laughed.

"Okay, well that explains it... You need one. I was trying to call you when Mich needed something." He smiled, making me look at his ceiling. Oh, he cannot be so dense. I grabbed my cup of coffee, taking a sip to cleanse my mouth of food. "I was— I am being chased, remember?"

Xian's smile fell and replacing it, a cringe as his cheeks turned red. "Okay... I'll buy you a new phone?" He offered. "A track one, nothing much just so I can contact you." He gave me a weak smile once again.

I sighed, taking another sip of the strong coffee. "Okay.."

-

I was still in Coal's white t-shirt and some sleep shorts. Xian drove half way and then parked, leaving us to walk. It was nice to walk and have some fresh air, even if I felt like boulders were holding my feet down.

The sun felt so comforting with how warm it was, though it did make me more tired. "Here. Let's just got to the dollar general." Xian pushed me, taking me toward the building.

I sighed as he pushed open the door, cold air washing over me. It wasn't that pleasurable honestly, I was enjoying the heat so much it was a jolting feeling.

"Okay, let's go pick up whatever you need before hand." Xian gave me a smile, grabbing his wallet. He shook it toward me and I frowned. "No.. I'll go find some stuff." I pushed his wallet back to him, turning away. I started down the aisles, looking around.

I should change my appearance.. It could help even a change like hair dye and cutting my hair. But, would they even carry that?

I glanced toward a girl as I turned down one. She stretched as far as she could, struggling to reach the top shelf to stock something. I looked past her, trying to find the hair dye. I'd truly prefer blue, maybe a sapphire..?-

I heard the tumbling of several boxes behind me, startling me as I twisted around.

The girl froze with her hand still in the air as she looked at me, her cheeks flushing red. "Oh... Raining boxes.." She chuckled, retracting her hand to her chest. I bit my cheek, nodding as I calmed down.

She was wearing a simple uniform, just a black shirt and jeans. Her fluffy purple was an interesting cut, short and messy in the back and long and curled in the front. Her brown eyes scanned me several times as she held her wrist.

Her eyes landed on my tattoos, or maybe the bruises? I can't read her expression. "Uhm.. Do you carry hair dye here..?" I furrowed my brows, as she let go of her wrist. "Oh- yes I'll show you." She smiled, pushing the boxes out of the way.

I began to follow her, her short figure became much more obvious as I did. Her hair bounced with every step she took, then she paused almost making me fall onto her. "One second.."

"I just need to... Okay yes this way." She resumed, rushing down an aisle. I followed as she presented me to the hair dyes. "What color are you looking for?" She smiled, cupping her hands together. I glanced through the selection, biting my lip.

"Sapphire blue.." I crossed my arms as she began to scan around. "Sapphire.." She whispered as she leaned down. "That would look good."

"Here, this is a sapphire blue." She handed it to me, smiling. I examined the box, furrowing my brows. "I've never done this.."

Her eyes fluttered up toward me and she bit her cheek. "Well, I promise it isn't hard- I do mine." She pointed to her fluffy hair. "Okay.." I looked down, adjusting my white t-shirt. "Thank you." I gave an awkward smile before beginning to walk away.

I just need a phone and to get out of here.- "Hey, I got this phone, it's a simple flip and I'll pay for it, I'll get you some minutes too!" Xian grinned, wrapping his arm around my shoulder.

I nodded, rubbing my eyes as he pulled us to the counter. The same young girl started to rush to us. She eyes me and Xian, putting together some kind of dots.

"Sorry- Short staff.." She rubbed her eye, tapping her work ID on the cash register. "You're fine, Bree." Xian smiled, setting down the phone as I set down the hair dye.

He knows her? I mean it makes a tad bit of sense. They both live here, but I didn't expect it. "Is this all..?" She looked at me as she spoke, grabbing the phone.

"Yes." I nodded, Xian looking at us both. He smirked before sighing. "Hm... Bree, how is your aunt?" He asked, crossing his arms. "She's okay. How are you, and the.. One guy you're usually with?"

She must be talking about Coal.. Xian grinned, as always he was happy to talk about him. "Coal's back at his place, up toward Lovettsville. I tried to get him down here with me, but he's stayed there for now. Then it would have been our little trio." Xian huffed, glancing toward me.

"But for once, it's us." Xian laughed, meeting my eyes. I stayed still as the girl flashed a soft smile toward us.

"I'm happy you have a friend at least." She began to scan things, placing them into the bag.

Xian sighed."Cold as stone..." He stopped smiling and grabbed his wallet. "How much?"

I furrowed my brows and went to take his wallet. "No, you are letting me pay." He smacked my hand, pushing me back with his elbow.

"89.95." The girl smiled, looking at me still. I sighed, shaking my head as I positioned my eyes down. Xian gave her the money, all in cash. I think it looks suspicious, but she took it with no questions. She handed us the bag and grinned.

"Thank you, you have a good day Bree!" He smiled and waved goodbye. I did the same as she returned it with a smile and wave. "Safe travels!"

-

"Do you wanna go see some fireworks?" Xian asked as we walked down the street, eyeing a poster. I glanced toward it. it is 4th of July. "Uhm... Sure. That sounds fun." I said with a nod, brushing my hair back.

"Let's go back and get dressed and head down soon then. My dog also needs to be let out, I miss her." He put his hand to his forehead, sighing.

I snickered, before he halted. "Oh- Bree, the girl in the store. She was looking at you a lot." He laughed, nudging me with his elbow.

I furrowed my brows."Yes. Why?"

"She's cute, isn't she?" He smirked, making me close my eyes. "Oh, Xian.." I pinched the bridge of my nose. "What are you implying?"

"Just that she's cute- and she might be there tonight. She looks so into you, aren't you a tad bit interested?" He teased, to which I stopped talking.

"She might be at the fireworks, what good place to make a move.." He winked, before laughing more. I pushed him off of me and shook my head.

"Don't. I just want to see some fireworks." I hope he realizes how serious I am. I always tried to stay stern with him, he doesn't take simple hints well. Or is it he doesn't care?

Xian hesitated before he nodded, sticking his hands in his pockets. "You're really stressed, aren't you?" He met my eyes, a familiar look swirling in the green. Concern.

A tiny bit of me feels bad, but what can I do? It's not my fault I'm being chased. He knows that..

"Of course.."

-

Xian left, he had to rush to Lovettsville to Coal. Coal had called him, sounding pretty upset so Xian told me to stay here as long as I like. Or I can. Then I'll head to see them when I'm rested. I don't know if I'll be able to due to the fact they might find me before hand. I hope they don't.

It's nice to rest somewhere. I took a shower and washed some of my clothes. It feels so good to be fresh again. I still was gonna watch the fireworks, just from afar though to be safe. I doubt they'd assume I'm in a public area.

I ran my hands through my messy brown hair. It's grown far too long for me to manage, I'll be glad to cut and dye it soon. A change may be good for me... I exhaled as I grabbed my keys, locking Xian's door.

I hope this is a good break from the chaos. I'd do anything for freedom from this. I sat down in my car and started the engine, holding the flyer in the other hand. Xian ripped it from the post and gave it to me. I expected nothing less from him.

I sat it down and put my car into reverse, backing out of his driveway. I suppose I should hurry up, it does start at 9 and its 8:46.

-

I parked my car far away as I could. It was a bit of a walk, but that was fine with me. It made this safer. It was a nice walk, just soft street lamp lights flickering. There wasn't many, this was a small town. It was much calmer than New York. Not much chatter to be heard.

I looked up toward the moon growing visible. It illuminated the ground, the darker it got the more peaceful. It's quiet..-

"Oh-!"

Stumbling backwards, a smaller pair of hands tried to grab me, only to fall with me. I felt soft hands land against my legs before jumping up. "Oh shoot-..!"

"I am so so so sorry!!" A familiar voice apologized. My eyes opened to see the girl. Several papers flew around here, floating to the ground as she gulped.

"I shouldn't have been running- oh gosh, no.." She groaned, beginning to grab the papers. I watched her, furrowing my brows before grabbing the few around me.

She was dressed in a pair of black shorts now and a crop top with a few skulls on it. Way different than her uniform earlier. Her eye makeup was heavier too, dark eyeliner and smeared purple eyeshadow.

"Are they in order..?" I feel inclined to help, she's the one apologizing but I was looking up instead of in front of me.

"Yes- I need them to be perfect in order and not damaged.." She shuffled through them, her brown eyes flickering between the numbers. I grabbed as many as I could, biting my cheek.

One landed in a tiny puddle, leaving it a bit damp. I reached for it, sighing. "I'm sorry, this one is a tad damp." I stood up, her head tilting up as she kept her eyes on my face. She seemed a bit dazed, before her eyes widened.

"Oh- wait, no what? Oh, what am I gonna do? My Aunt is going to kill me.." She whimpered, taking the papers from me. She shuffled them into order, handing me the damp. "Sorry- hold on.." She sighed, looking around then toward the parking lot I was parked in.

Why is she looking that way..? My heart began to pound a tad bit harder as I watched her. She closed her eyes and let out a defeated sigh.

"Can you help me..?" Her voice cracked as she glanced toward the right, avoiding my face. I'm surprised she's asking me that after knocking me down. I thought she'd run off, but she doesn't seem so timid.

I glanced toward the parking lot. What about them..? Am I putting someone innocent in danger? I'd prefer not.

"Please? I'll repay you- I'll buy you dinner or a drink." My attention as caught by the word dinner as she begged, holding the papers close.

I am starving..

"Okay... What do you need me to do?" I caved, holding the damp paper away from me. She perked up and smiled, clearing her throat. "Just tell my aunt when we get there that we bumped into each other and that's why I dropped the papers, she won't get mad if you are there."

I furrowed my brows and her cheeks flushed pink. "I know it's weird but I promised I'll repay you after.." She began to walk, motioning me to follow. I guess it's a simple task. I started to follow, ending up next to her.

"So... What's your name?" She asked, looking at me instead of straight ahead. I laughed under my breath. Goodness..

"Nash. You might want to look ahead, Bree. Right?" I glanced her way before back to ahead. She turned a bit pinker, her lips parting before a soft smirk appeared.

"Yeah, that's right. Thank you, I will watch straight ahead, Nash." She grinned, gaining a small bounce in her step. I glanced back ahead. Every car caught my attention.

Gosh, I'm so paranoid.

But, none looked like any of their cars at least. I'm safe. I'm fine, it's okay...

"Okay, my aunts car is over there, the black one." She pointed to a older car, starting over. The older woman glanced our way, her curly blonde hair falling down her back.

"Bree. Come here. What are you doing?" Her voice was stern and a bit bitter, making Bree start to tense up. "Auntie, hi.." She whispered as we got closer. "Who's this- why are the papers separated and damp??" Her aunt began to ask, her anger rising. I held the damp paper a bit away from me, I guess I have to say something now...

"I'm Nash, Bree ran into me and the papers got scattered, but this one should be fine." I gave her a soft smile, but she didn't seem to care for my nonchalant attitude. Bree took the paper from me, handing her it separate.

"Okay. If this is ruined, you know how important this is?" Her Aunt's eyes looked angry, but she kept her tone sounding cool.

"Yes.. But, I'm sure it's fine." She shrugged her shoulders. I could feel the anger now. I watched Bree as she set all the papers down. "It'll dry." I crossed my arms, glancing away from the woman.

Her eyes flickered to me and she smiled. "Okay, well I'll see you later tonight Aunt C. I'm gonna go get dinner." She waved with a panicked gaze, walking back to me.

"Hurry. Before she snaps.." Bree whispered, starting to walk quicker. I matched her speed, furrowing my brows. I prefer not to fall victim to the rage this woman radiates.

"What do you want to eat?" She changes the subject, smiling to me. All the worries left my mind and I just smiled.

"Uhm, anything? I don't know what they would have here though.." I kept my arms crossed as we walked, the setting sun shining on both our faces.

"Okay, just follow me. Though it's like any other event around here." She shrugged, breaking off the sidewalk into the grass.

"Well, this is my first time.." I scratched my cheek, looking toward the unfamiliar food trucks. I'm used to New York's scene, but this still is a bit different.

"What? Where are you from?" She asked, turning to face me. "New York." I replied and her eyes lit up.

"Oh my gosh, really? I always wanted to go there!" Excitement filled her big brown eyes, making me laugh. "It's busy, loud, isn't for anyone with a weak assertive or stern attitude ." I explained, brushing back my hair. She furrowed her brows as we got closer to a food truck before lightening up.

"I think I'd survive. I'm that way here." She placed her hand on her hip, turning my way as we waited in line.

I bit my cheek. I don't know, she seems southern sweet not New York assertive. But, maybe she would strive.

"Now, you can decide what you want and I'll pay."

-

I attempted to part ways, but she insisted on keeping me company when she saw I was alone and would be eating alone. So we just sat here in the grass waiting for the show to start. We didn't say too much, she asked questions and I answered.

She bought us some pulled pork barbecue, which was pretty good so far. "So, you came here for Xian?" She asked, taking a sip of her soda.

"Yes." I nodded my head as I took another bite. I really have been starving so this is so good, even if I'll get full rather quick.

"Oh, I see. What do you do for a living then?" She smiled, setting down her drink between her legs. A lot of questions..

It was invasive and made my head hurt... I looked down and held my drink by the top. I can't just say oh I'm a car thief.

"Mechanic..." I stretched it out, sounding like I was questioning myself. She furrowed her brows and laughed.

"Okay..?" She returned my questioning tone, smirking. I bit my cheek and looked away. "I just work on cars, I don't know if I have that title." I excused, watching the men starting to set up the fireworks. It should start soon, maybe that'll quiet her questions.

"I understand, so maybe you're the mechanics assistant." She said with a laugh, adjusting her legs.

'Ding' Bree's phone chimed. She furrowed her brows and reached for it. She clicked on something, taking a bite from her sandwich.

I just looked away, back toward the sky. It was pitch black now, though you couldn't see any stars. Clouds must be coming in.

"Boom!" Thunder cracked, making me whip my head around. My heartbeat began to race a bit more and I looked at Bree.

"Aw man, they're gonna cancel it if it storms.." She pouted, crossing her arms.

I bit the inside of my lip. Maybe I need to go to my car..

"Thank you for dinner." I stood up, adjusting my black t-shirt as I did.

"Oh yeah, it's the least I could do... Are you ok?" She asked as I dusted off my pants. Lightening shook the ground, lighting everything up. I jumped, covering my mouth. "I'm going to my car." I gulped. Oh gosh, I hate thunderstorms..

I rather be close to somewhere I can get under cover quick

Bree got up as well, giving me a sympathetic look. "Uhm.. Can I walk with you to mine then..? It's just very dark and I'd like my jacket." She adjusted her shirt, balling up the paper from her pork.

Goodness.. I looked at her, examining her. I don't want to put her in more danger, but.. It is very dark.

I just nodded, grabbing my drink and starting toward the parking lot. It was a bit away, I just wanted to be safe..

But now I'm caught in a thunderstorm. My least favorite thing in the entire world...

"What kind of car do you drive?" She asked happily, walking next to me. I took a deep breath. "A 1970 dodge charger." I crossed my arms and she gasped.

"No way- that is so cool. I love those! Is it that one over there? My cars parked close." She pointed to it, grinning.

I nodded, starting to hurry as another crack of thunder roared. Wind starts to whip, blowing both of our hair into our faces.

Smacking the hair away, Bree matched my speed as she looked toward the sky. "Goodness.."

I glanced around the parking lot, it's dead..

My heart race began to pick up. It feels weird...

"Here's my car." She smiled, showing her a baby-blue Saab. It was fitting for her. She unlocked it, opening the door and grabbing a bag.

"Nash..." A familiar male voice purred.

"How are you?" The main tracker asked, making me turn slowly.

He held a gun, pointing it at Bree and me both. Bree shrieked, backing up and running into my arm. I stumbled back, trying to keep my eyes on him. This is hell. This can't be real.

He placed his finger across the trigger, making me just act.

I gripped her arm and pushed us both down between our cars as he shot. Oh gosh, no what do I do..??

I looked at Bree. She stared at me petrified.

"Please don't leave me.." She begged, her hands shaking as she hid her face.

I looked toward my car and gulped. This is exactly what I didn't want to happen. Shoot-! I huffed, grabbing her arms to help her get onto her knees.

"Count of three, jump in my cars backseat." I instructed, Bree's eyes widening. She nodded through fear and gulped.

"Okay.."

"1..."

"2."

"3. Go..!"

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