Sparks and Hearts

Unwanted Attention

Finally pulling up to the hotel, Barricade's engine cut off, and I swore I heard him sigh of relief.

''You gonna let me out?'' I eagerly pleaded.

''Not until we go over some rules,'' Barricade growled out.

''I'm not a child!'' I wined.

''No, just the size of one.'' Barricade sassed, clearly enjoying his attempt to tease me.

''I'll have you know all the curves are in all the right places.'' I bit back. 

An awkward silence followed, clearing my throat motioning him to speak.

''Now, unless you want to spend another night in here, you're going to follow these rules. Don't let anyone in your room except me. Don't leave your room unless needed, don't go wandering around or leave the complex. I'll park where I'll be able to watch you.

''Yes, dad. Stay away from strangers and no kissing boys in the moonlit night,'' I sassed, rolling my eyes, earning a low growl in the process.

With the door finally unlocked, throwing my bag over my shoulder, I ran faster than a rat up a drainpipe to the entrance. Ignoring the odd stare, I walked up to the reception area. 

''Excuse me, do you have a room available for a night or two, please?'' I asked.

Taken back by the sight of me, she glanced at her screen.

''Urm, yes, we have a self-contained double room available, will that be alright for you?'' She checked.

''Believe me, the past few days I've had, I'll take anything. Thank you'' I said, relieved, handing my card over.

''Forgive me, but I have to ask, are you alright?'' She eyed me. Concern sketched over her face. 

Without the need for a mirror, I knew I looked a state. I planned to stay under the shower until every grain of dirt, sweat, and dried blood was washed away.

''I'm fine, thank you. Camping trip turned into a nightmare.'' I laughed, hoping she'd be convinced.

She smiled sympathetically before her eyes moved from me to another who came just behind me moments ago; their familiar essence let me know who it was without looking.

''This poor guy here had the job of search and rescue,'' I continued; it was partly truthful.

The receptionist seemed to believe my story with a stern-looking cop now next to me, watching every interaction.

Handing me the room key, I took off making my way to the room number, heavy footsteps following closely behind. 

''I've never been so excited to get in a hotel room; this what it must be like for someone having a seedy affair with a coworker.'' I  half-joked, earning a look of confusion from Barricade. 

Upon entering the room, the luxury of having a bed, soft sheets, and a bathroom was so good I could've cried with relief and gratitude for something we take for granted. The door shut, and I turned to see Barricade observing me, but I paid little attention as I grabbed my things and headed for the bathroom and facing my reflection, and what a sight to behold I was.

Well, no wonder people stared. You know I'm out doing myself lately.'' I laughed.

I tied my fading coloured hair up, placing pins in the front, pushing away the hair covering my wound before cleaning it thoroughly. After observing it and happy, my body's ability to heal was well underway with no infection. My attention caught Barricade's reflection, who stood in the doorway as if guarding me or to trap me.