B r e e

Nash and I got back from the Thai restaurant and both collapsed into our beds. It was safe to say I actually slept the best I had since this started...

Now it's the next day, I woke up a tad bit before Nash, but we both slept in very late... I took a shower, switched into my black jean shorts again and a purple t-shirt now. I tucked it into my shorts and put on all my jewelry.

"Nash, do you know where my perfume is..?" I asked, digging through my bag."Uhm, I don't know, is it in here?" Nash questioned from the bathroom, he was getting ready himself now. He rushed me out of the shower...

I sighed, pursing my lips."Can you check?" I approached the door, hearing him dig around.

"Yes, it is right here. Let me get dressed, you won't die if you have to wait a few minutes to smell like... Warm Vanilla Sugar." He read the label, snickering under his breath.

I rolled my eyes and leaned against the wall. "You don't know that, I could very easily pass away from lack of vanilla keeping me warm."

I stared down at my toes, they still hurt a bit worse today. I guess the second day of any bruising or break is the worst. At least for me.

I ran my fingers through my hair, getting stuck on several knots. I winced and looked around. I left my brush in there too, didn't I?

"Nash.." I groaned, leaning up."What?"

"Can I have my brush, please?" I begged, pushing myself away from the wall. I could hear Nash huff, setting down something of his own.

"Let me put my shirt on at least." His tone was harsh, which made me snicker a bit. I turned my head, my ear pressing closer to the door.

I could hear Nash groaning under his breath, it sounded like he was in pain. I furrowed my brows, placing my hand against the doorframe. Is he okay?

The door opened as Nash pushed his damp hair back. I fixed my gaze on him. He smelled nice, his cologne meeting my nose as soon as he reached to me.

My heartbeat picked up a little as I watched his light blue eyes flicker toward the window. He looks nice, always tends to when he's dressed all in black.

It's sleek...

"Are you okay..?" I muttered, my voice only growing quieter as I shrank in my skin. He looks more intimidating when he's all put together. I could finally make out the tattoos on his arm. Skulls, flames, barbwires, a lot was going on but it all complimented each other.

It does fit him well at least.

Nash's eyes met mine, but I wasn't sure what to do now. He pursed his lips, breaking all the contact, and pushed my items toward me.

"Here.." He handed me the perfume and brush. Before I could thank him, he shut the door.

Did I make him uncomfortable? I clenched the perfume bottle in my hand, a frown tugging at my lips.

This is confusing. I looked into the mirror hanging by the door, starting to brush the knots out of my hair. My cheeks were a bit pink.

I brought my hand to my cheeks, tracing my nails down them. What am I doing..? I pinched my eyes shut, continuing to brush my hair.

What are we even getting ready for? Well, I guess what is Nash getting ready for? I mean, he looked this nice yesterday when we were seeing his boss, is it Mr. Clyde again?

I did not like it there, but it would be scarier without Nash. He's tough, smart, strong...

I shot my eyes open as I heard the door open, continuing to brush my hair. Nash walked behind me, organizing his items back into his bag.

His chain dangled down from his neck, his hair slipping down across his face. He tore his fingers through it as he pushed it back.

I returned back to myself in the mirror, setting down my brush on the tiny table. I sprayed my perfume across my neck and chest, tapping it in.

"Will you be fine if I am going to a meeting Xian has set up?" He asked, approaching me from behind.

"Like... You want to leave me here alone while you go out?" I furrowed my brows, looking at him over my shoulder.

He examined me for a moment, before glancing away. He parted his lips, pushing his tongue against the roof of his mouth.

"I mean, I... Not exactly- Never mind." He nodded his head, grabbing his wallet.

I guess he was contemplating it. I'd honestly argue if he tried, I really don't want to be deserted. I sat down my perfume next to my brush, bending down to grab my tennis shoes.

"What is this meeting for?" I rose my brow, slipping on my shoes as I looked up at him.

"I don't know if I'm being frank. I mean, it's not going to get me in worsening trouble, but it's for a potential job." He shrugged, grabbing his keys."Xian only sent me the address. Not any other details."

They jingled as he approached the door, switching off the lights.

Oh, why is he so impatient..? I hurried after him, doing my best to not put much pressure on my damaged toes.

"So you're gonna rob someone? " I crossed my arms, Nash staying quiet for a moment before cocking his head to the side."Hmm... Maybe, I guess we will see."

-

We pulled into this long, fancy driveway. Like paved, a garden, gates, this made me feel odd. This ride alone was a long one, almost an hour. But it wasn't terrible.

"Is Xian coming too..?" I broke our silence, resting my feet onto the console.

"Yes. Well, honestly he is probably here. We're late.." Nash cringed as we approached the fancy house.

Plenty of vehicles were parked around, mostly luxury or sport cars."Are these all the owners..?" I furrowed my brows, glancing toward Nash."I don't know..."

His eyes darted around as he fiddled with his chain."I hope they are..."

I feel as if I'm about to see diamond encrusted floors. The big windows were covered by blinds, the hedges didn't have a single flaw. I bit my cheek, watching Nash pull out the key.

He glanced around, a line forming between his brows. I don't see Xian's truck in the line of them, maybe he's late as well..?

"Alright, are you coming in?" He asked, reaching to open his door. I stared at the rose bush. The thorns are so prominent...

"Will this take long..?" I narrowed my eyes, resting my fingers against my lips. Nash paused, looking at the door.

"Definitely.." He gave me a dreadful smile. I leaned my head back into the seat, nodding my head.

"I guess I have to go, I don't want to overheat in here.." I pushed the door open, stepping out. I could hear soft birds chirping.

Even though I'm about to go into a criminals meeting, the birds are still calming...

I turned toward Nash, he was waiting for me."Silly question, are these people rich in a moral manner or..?" I asked, shoving my hands into my pockets.

Nash's eyes closed before he smirked."What do you think? I don't know them." He shrugged, walking up to the door. I shook my head, following behind.

I'm gonna assume the latter then. It doesn't seem like anyone I've met in the last couple days has rose up in a legal manner.

I heard crunching coming from behind me, seeing Xian's truck coming into view. He threw it into park, jumping out.

He dressed casual yet nice as well, about the same as yesterday except it was a short-sleeve black button up now. But his hair was a little messy and his eyes were full of anxiety, flickering around the porch.

He ran up to Nash, breathing out a sigh of relief. "Thank you for being here..!" He smiled, brushing his hair back into place.

"What's going on here?" Nash crossed his arms."Is it a party?"

"Not exactly, it's more of a gathering I thought. We're just here for Robert, okay?" He explained, pushing between Nash and me.

"Hi, pretty lady, sorry you were dragged here." Xian chuckled, glancing at Nash as he took a deep breath."Hi, Xian." I smiled, returning my gaze to the door. He knocked on the door, stepping back.

Jeez, I wonder who I am about to see now? Mr. Clyde appears like a mobster, so at this point I don't even know who is going to approach me. But maybe they'll be kind like Mr. Clyde.

A woman opened the door, catching her breath as the chatter in the background grew. She brushed down her blue pencil skirt as her long caramel hair draped down her back.

Her green eyes widened as she backed up a little. Her entire body stiffed, hitching her breath."Excuse me.." She closed the door, making Nash furrow his brows.

Xian looked up at the ceiling, sucking his cheek in.

"If you just act normal, like you, I will explain later.." Xian mumbled, keeping a steady smile. Something about this is giving me a chilling feeling.

"You did something bad again, didn't you?" Nash kept a strong composure just the same in his face, but his fist tightened.

"It really wasn't my fault this time..." Xian faked a laugh, slipping his hands into his pockets.

"Is this why Mich warned me, Xian?"

The tension was growing with every word between them, I just kept my gaze locked toward the ground. I want to ask, but it feels like this is the time I need to keep my mouth shut.

"Oh, look someone is coming- Robert!" Xian chimed as the middle-aged man swung the door open. His jaw tensed as his brown eyes examined us all.

"Xian. You brought a whole party with you yourself hm?" He forced a smile, squinting his eyes at Xian.

"Well, you knew Nash was coming, but this is our little friend, Bree. She needed to come along.." Xian laughed as I tried to give him a sheepish smile.

Robert didn't say a word, instead opened the door the rest of the way. Xian went in first, Nash followed, and I stayed behind him as usual.

"Can I get any of you a beverage?" He paused in his footsteps, turning to Xian. "Well...- Well if it's no trouble, Brandy and Cola?" Xian remained polite as he smiled, a small smirk appearing on the man's face.

"Of course not. What about either of you?" Robert pointed at us, Nash shook his head. "Uhm, I'm alright." I smiled, stepping a tad bit closer. Nash glanced down at me as I returned an uneasy glance.

Robert started to the kitchen, leaving us all in the luxury entrance. He had a chandelier, loads of paintings, and some fancy red velvet sofa below the staircase.

I don't think I've ever seen so much money in just one room... Though I wasn't hanging around mobsters, I was focused on making my own money for culinary school.

Maybe when this is over, Nash can take some of that stolen cash and pay for my classes as an apology...

I snickered to myself and Nash's eyes darted over to me.

"What?" He questioned, pressing his fingers into his arm. I shrugged, smirking up at him as my anxiety alleviated.

"Just thinking about when this is over.." I started, breaking into another small smile."You can pay for my culinary school tuition with some of that stolen money..." I laughed, Nash's eyes softened before they fell.

"More like therapy.." He mumbled, crossing his arms tighter to his body. My smile fell as I furrowed my brows.

"Here you are." Robert returned, handing Xian the glass."Thank you." He smiled, Robert returning a nod.

"Shall we- Ah, hold on.." Robert paused, hurrying into another room. The chatter started to die down as he did, everyone focusing on his voice.

I couldn't make out what he was saying though, it was far too quiet..

Xian took a tiny sip from the glass, eyeing the doorway.

"Please don't decline the job..." He begged, gripping the glass a bit tighter. Nash let out a sardonic laugh, finally dropping his arms to his sides."I'll decide myself, Xian."

"Please Nash..?" Xian begged. "I will pay you."

"Don't bribe me into this. If I say no, I say no."-

Robert returned and smiled."How about we discuss this over a game of pool?" He asked, Nash and Xian's facades snapping on.

"Oh yeah- Lead the way." Xian slipped his thumbs into his pocket, smiling. Nash glanced at me and furrowed his brows.

"I prefer if she doesn't come, this is a private discussion. She can be with the women in the kitchen." Robert gestured toward the kitchen, starting down the hall. Nash gave me a soft glance, holding his breath.

"Uhm..." Nash closed his eyes, sighing."Take my phone.." He whispered, slipping it into my pocket. I looked up at him, gripping the middle of my shirt."Nash..." I whispered, my heart dropping into my stomach.

He began to follow, lowering his head. Xian froze, glancing back at me and the drink.

"Erm... Do you mind taking this? You can have it if you want love? I don't think I can drink and play like this..." He asked, pushing the drink to me.

I pursed my lips before nodding, taking it from his hand. He gave me a soft smirk."We'll be back soon, just have fun." He tapped his finger against mine, turning to follow them.

What do I even do now..? Do I have to go into the kitchen? This is not my element. I haven't been to something even remotely like a party in years.

Gosh, I seem like a loser..

-

I ended up forcing myself into the kitchen. I felt awkward but I explained why I was there and most of the women were very friendly.

I sat at one of the less busy tables near the woman who answered the door and another talking to the others in the room.

I tapped my fingers along the glass, I'm contemplating drinking it because I mean... I'm thirsty and I'm sitting here so quiet.

"So... Who are you exactly?" The woman who answered the door finally broke the silence, tying her hair back.

I felt the other women begin to look my way, waiting for my reply. I slid down in the seat a little."I'm Bree.. I came with Nash and Xian." I forced a smile, her expression souring.

"I'm Val. Uhm- Xian... What are you to him?" Val asked in a sheepish tone, the other woman at the table covering her mouth as she snickered.

"Nothing, I mean I guess maybe a friend..?" I met her eyes, shrugging. She hummed, taking a sip from the glass.

She began to avoid my gaze, making me furrow my brows more. I straightened my back, tracing my finger around the rim of the glass.

"Who is he to you?" I inquired, the snickering woman's eyes widening for a moment.

Val's expression twisted more, her cheeks turning velvet."I-.. He's just an acquaintance, you're not the person I wondered you were anyway." She stopped, turning her head to the other woman.

She went quiet, looking away. I smirked to myself as I crossed my legs. I finally took a sip from the glass, it wasn't bad. I guess I see why Xian was going to drink this.

I do wonder who the right person would be though? If not me, then who does she want to talk to about Xian?

The women's chatter picked back up as I sipped from the drink, waiting for them to come back.

I do wish I could've stayed with Nash. I have to admit, I'm so curious of how these things are done. You'd never think Xian would be the kind of person robbing others blind, but here we are.

And here I am being chased because of him doing so and whatever happening. I hope I get to know the story soon.

I took a bigger swig from the glass, glancing out the window. It was dusk now, the sun long gone from the sky. I sighed, the laughter rising as one of the women poured another glass of wine.

I really hope this isn't a long night.

-

I stayed with the women, playing poker for just a bit longer. If I'm being honest, I'm growing impatient waiting for Nash. It was dark outside and my head is hurting...

"And, I will take that." I slid the chips toward me, smirking as I won this round with a royal flush.

"Ugh.." Val groaned, placing down her hand. Her eyes glanced above me, tightening her fist as I finished off the brandy and coke.

I turned, seeing Nash and Xian approach me. Nash eyed the drink with a strange expression before leaning down next to me.

"We need to go. Come on." He motioned, Xian already heading out the door. I glanced back at Val, giving her a wide smile.

"Thank you for letting me play with you guys, but I gotta listen to the man.." My words slurred a bit as I stood up, Nash's brows furrowing.

"Oh, uhm of course.." She replied lowly, taking my chips and cards back to the pile.

I slipped away from the chair, Nash pushing it back into the table. I started out toward the door, my vision getting oddly blurred...

I stumbled into the entrance, almost slamming into the door. Nash hurried after me, grabbing my arm. I winced as my foot ached, not as bad as it was before though..

I brushed my hair back, furrowing my brows."Jeez..." I whispered as he opened the door, letting go of me. I started out, walking to the car.

The cool summer night was prettier than usual to me. I haven't seen the stars so bright and so many in so long."Bree.." Nash started, but I kept admiring.-

"Bree stop!" Nash grabbed me again before I ran into the car."What the.." He paused and held my arm, helping me to the passenger side. I blinked, looking up.

"Gosh, this was fun." I giggled, Nash doing a double take at me. His facial expression grew more puzzled as I reached for the door.

He slipped his hand past me, opening the door. I smiled and he helped me down into the seat."Stay put, I'll be a second.." Nash muttered, closing the door.

I watched as he approached Xian in front of the car. As soon as he did, Nash started laying him out, gesturing his hands as he spoke.

I could hear his voice, his words were laced with anger and frustration. Xian backed up a bit, before putting his hands up at Nash.

Suddenly, Nash pointed his finger at me, lowering his voice with whatever he was saying. I curled my nose, crossing my arms. Why am I getting brought into this..?

Xian glanced at me, before he glanced toward the sky. He turned on his heel and quickly started to his truck, leaving Nash gritting his teeth.

He roughly pulled the car door open, rushing into it. He shoved the key into the ignition and threw it into reverse, making my head ache worse from the harsh movement.

"What happened..?" I asked softly, Nash giving me a sharp glare. He returned to the rear view mirror, before throwing it back into drive.

I pulled my knee back to my chest, laying my heavy head against it.

"You shouldn't speed.." I mumbled, to which Nash scoffed. "And you shouldn't have gotten plastered tonight, but we both are doing something stupid, aren't we?" He snapped, stopping at the bottom of the driveway.

My mouth fell open as I smacked my hand into my thigh."I drank one glass, it wasn't even mine, Xian gave me his!" I snapped back, sinking my nails into my skin.

Nash's glare started to soften for a moment as his lips parted."You only had that tiny glass..?" He asked in a hush tone, furrowing his brows.

I nodded, crossing my arms. This is stupid, I can't believe the criminal is gonna scold me and say I'm drunk when I drank one glass...

Nash focused on the road again, keeping the puzzled expression as we sped down the highway.

I just laid my head against the door, huffing out a deep breath as it fogged up the window.

This is ridiculous...

-

Burning started to twist up my throat as the lump formed. Oh gosh, not now please...

"Nash.." I placed my hand over my mouth as I shot my eyes open, breaking our silence we've held for at least 35 minutes.

"What..?" He rose his brow, glancing toward the signs.

"I... need you to pull over..." I held my breath as my stomach twisted, digging my good foot into his floorboard. His eyes flickered over at me before he flicked on the signal.

As soon as he came to a stop, I jumped out of the car, stumbling to the grass. The grounds shaking, or is it me..? I fell to my knees, tearing them along the pavement.

I crawled to the grass, hunching over. Nash hurried out to follow me, rushing down to my side.

I felt his tough hands push my hair back, holding the long pieces away from my face. I gagged, tears rushing into my eyes.

"What's.. Wrong with me..?" I struggled to ask between dry heaves, Nash gulped.

"I'm afraid I might know.." He whispered, continuously brushing my hair back gently."I was hoping it wasn't that though..." He sighed as I coughed.

I gagged before throwing up what felt like my entire stomach. Nash kept a good grip on my hair, but I don't know what to do...

I stayed still, raising my head. As I did, it felt like a ton of bricks held me down. I looked at Nash, gulping."Please tell me you can get me some water..?" I begged as he let go of my hair. I reached for his hand, his eyes following every movement.

He inhaled, starting to stand up. He put his hands out to me as I struggle to grab them."Come on, I'll get you water and to bed.." His voice was gentle, careful to not be loud or harsh.

I nodded, stumbling against his chest. His breath hitched before he pulled me close, helping me to the car.

He helped me down much slower this time, reaching into the glovebox and handing me a napkin.

I wiped my mouth, trying to make out the fuzzy shapes in front of me. Nash backed up, looking at me for a moment.

My pocket started vibrating. I jumped, looking at Nash.

"Why am I vibrating??" I cried, Nash shushing me."Hold on.." He cringed, before reaching into my pocket. He grabbed his phone and brought it to my face.

"It's just my phone, you're fine.. Just lay your head down, okay?" He bent down to my level for a moment before closing the door and rushing to the drivers seat.

"Hello?" He answered the phone, crawling into the car."What- No no, please you can't do this to me right now, I-.." Nash went quiet, covering his mouth.

"Okay. I know... I'll get our stuff and leave. Bye..." He hung up the phone and shoved it into his pocket.

"What..?" I asked, falling against the door."Buckle up and close your eyes, we have to get to the hotel, get our stuff and then I guess go to Xian and Coal's..." He sighed, throwing the car into drive. I nodded, coughing until my chest felt like it was on fire.

-

Nash got all our things and me some water. I sat in the car, sipping it as I tried to make out strange things in the road.

Nash was quiet, but every once in a while he would check on me subtly... I appreciate him.

"Nash... What is wrong with.. Me..?" I slurred, looking his way."Your drink was spiked. Well- Xian's drink was spiked and you drank it.." He cleared his throat as we turned into a gravel driveway.

My heart dropped as I gasped."No, what, am I gonna die?!" I exclaimed, startling him."No- Bree let me just get you to bed." Nash shut the ignition off and rushed to my side, opening my door.

I took his hand, trying to make out the house through my fuzzy vision.

I looked to Nash as he brought me to the door."Stay here. Coal told me where the key is.." He instructed, plucking it up from underneath the porches stairs.

I stared at him, biting my lip."Nash."

He returned my gaze as I leaned up from the door. He started unlocking it, glancing back at me every once in a while.

I lost my words, I can't think.. He looks at me like I'm see-through half the time, but right now I'm here...

"Come on, the dogs are put up so they won't jump on you." He reassured, leading me inside. He flicked on the light, shutting the door as I glanced around the neat living room.

I can't make out anything in it really... I can't even.."Nash.."

He pulled me to the room, placing me down on the bed. I felt as if I was China glass and he was afraid to even leave a smudge on my skin..

"Nash..." I whispered, staring at the ceiling."Bree, you've said my name 3 times but have yet to elaborate from there." He pointed out, pulling the sheets over me. I took a deep breath and gulped.

"Are you sure I'm not going to die..?" I mumbled, turning over to face him.

"You'll be fine. You just need to rest, I'm sure.." He didn't seem sure, instead he looked away from me, the moonlight washing across his worried eyes.

He looked so much more gentle here, or was it my eyes..?

He gave me a weak smile and turned to walk out. I gripped his wrist and tugged."Please- I'm begging, don't leave me alone.." I cried, meeting his eyes over his shoulder."If I were to die, please don't let it be alone.."

His lips parted as he gulped, turning and getting down on his knees."Okay..."

I pulled his arm up, holding it closer to me. His eyes followed my movement as I rested my head on it.

He tensed, swallowing once again before he closed his eyes, setting his chin on the side of the bed.

"You're going to be fine, perfectly fine... I promise..." Nash whispered as my eyes grew heavier.

"I don't wanna die.." I whimpered once more, gripping his arm a little tighter.

"I'm not going to let you..."

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