The Bones of The Rabbit

Chapter 51

The day was comfortable for February, but it was only you outside with Aspen. You were taking her for a walk to pass time. Thankfully, Alcina has a large property so there was plenty to explore while you were doing so. Today was a general 50°F, which required just a jacket. There was still snow on the ground, but that was okay. You came to the edge of Lady Dimitrescu's property, gazing ahead. Checking the time, you had killed about 2 hours, Aspen ready to fall over from walking. "We'll have to walk back, Aspen, no falling over yet!" You grinned, heading back to the castle. Not even 10 minutes on your way back, you began to carry Aspen as she couldn't do any more walking.

Hearing a soft voice, you whipped around as you thought you were alone. It was Donna and Angie. You blinked, then gave an awkward grin. Her veil hid her expression, but then she handed you a small stuffed animal. You put Aspen down, watching Donna sign your cast as you looked at the stuffed animal. It was a rabbit, a cute little rabbit with a hoodie and skirt. "This is cute! Thank you." You felt her peck your cheek, making you drop your friendly attitude. "Donna, you can't do that. I'm with Alcina." You softly explained. "Our one year anniversary is coming up in April of when we met." You went to gently pat her shoulder, but she was radiating anger and sadness. "I do appreciate the gift though. I just see you as a friend." You gave her a hug, even if she was bristling. She looked over her shoulder as she left, then you went on your way.

You put the stuffed rabbit on your desk, smiling happily at the gift. "I see Donna paid you a visit." Bela pointed out, her insects flittering about. You looked over then nodded. "Yeah. She's pretty lonely in her manor. Poor woman..." You gave a soft sigh. "Oh well. So, I heard you're going on a date with my mother. No sunlight, bring her back before 3am, no fucking in the woods." Bela listed out. "She's a grown woman," you hissed, your face heating up, "and we would never fuck in the woods. That's asking for trouble." Bela glared at you, causing you to shoo her away. "I'll bring her back before 3am." You promised, crossing your chest.

The night was cold but not too bad, the sun having just fallen. You two planned on going during the day, but it would've been too tricky. You both took a carriage to the woods, sending the coachman back to the castle upon making it over. You and Alcina made your way into the woods, exploring and watching the stars. Finding a clearing amongst the trees, you laid down the blanket and started your night picnic.

You showed Alcina the different constellations, then she got closer. The two of you barely ate, so caught up in the wildlife and night sky. Constellations turned to kisses and heavy petting. Then, the sound of a twig snapping. You both stopped, looking around. Squinting your eyes, you then urged Lady Dimitrescu to get up. "What's wrong?" She asked, looking around. "Run." You ordered. She looked confused until you shoved her. "I said run!" You ordered loudly, watching her take off like a doe as a gunshot could be heard. The light belonged to some hunters, by the looks of it they were hunting down lycans and vampires. You slowly snuck away, only to be grabbed. You looked over, seeing that you were surrounded. "What is a kid like you going in the woods?" A man asked, eyeing you. "I was on a date with my husband. He was buried out here." You explained, thinking of an excuse. It seemed to have worked as he let you go. Taking off in the same direction Lady Dimitrescu had went, you tripped on a root and felt a couple of hands snatch you up before you hit the ground. Looking up, you saw Alcina's eyes.

You snuck your way back, limping and managing to grab the blanket and basket. You limped back, walking back to the castle with Alcina. "That was scary." You whispered, heart thudding. "Yeah. But it was nice." She spoke softly, bringing warmth to your cheeks. You checked your phone. It was 4:30am. "Bela is going to be mad." You mumbled, looking up. "She wanted me back by a specific time?" Alcina gave a soft laugh and pressed a kiss to your forehead.

"I enjoyed tonight."