Change of Heart (A Psych Fan-Fic)

Safe

A/N: This is a super duper long chapter. The next chapter is the final, Epilogue. I’ve considered uploading it the same time as this one it just depends on how many reviews I get with this chapter. So please let me know something. Thanks to all those who’ve reviewed/messaged me on the story. As well as to those who’ve followed and favorite. This was by far one my favorite stories I’ve written and had the pleasure of writing.

So I hope this chapter doesn’t disappoint. Enjoy and review!

Chapter 9: Safe

He was a savage jungle cat moving swiftly and silently through the tall grasses of the clearing in the woods, rifle in hand. He and Talon parted ways a few miles back so they could corner them.

By the position of the sun, there were a few hours of daylight left in the day. One time during his childhood his father blindfolded him and dragged him into the middle of the woods to fend for himself. His father thought it was a way to ‘toughen him up’,

Jake spent seven, long agonizing days in the wilderness, alone. When he managed to find his way back home his father showed him no praise. Instead, he was returned with a look of disgust.

 Ever since, he spent a considerable amount of time hunting animals and perfecting his hunting techniques. Jake had never thought of himself as a killer before. But when he took down his first deer, he enjoyed it and craved more. The feeling of power and adrenaline was intoxicating.

He kneeled down at the sight of blood droppings and smirked. They were smart changing course, but he was smarter. He was hoping for more of a challenge, but this would have to do for now. He licked his lips in anticipation and moved forward towards his prey.

~PSYCH~

“Shawn, stop” Kaylee wheezed, slowing her pace to a slow walk. “I can’t breathe.”

Shawn immediately stopped and wheeled around to the asthmatic teen. “Just a little further Kaylee,” Shawn said. “You can do it.”

Kaylee placed her hands on her knees and shook her head as she gasped for air. “I…can’t.” She said. “It…hurts.

Shawn turned around and kneeled down in front of Kaylee. “Get on,” He said. “I’ll carry you.”

Flushing, Kaylee brought her hands on his steady shoulders as he grabbed her knees from behind before standing up, carrying both her weight and his. “Man kid, what have they been feeding you?” Shawn said teasingly as he took his first few steps. Her flush darkened and she smacked him across the head. “Ouch, I was teasing.” He whined. “Don’t take it so seriously.”

 “You don’t…ever…mention a woman’s weight,” She panted, wrapping her arms around his neck. “It’s rude.”

Shawn chuckled and jumped a bit to move her up. “I was joking,” He said. “You’re seriously light for your age though. You should eat more or you’ll end up withering away.”

Kaylee smiled, closing her eyes and buried her head into the crook of his neck. After she managed to get her breathing somewhat under control she decided to speak up. “I’m sorry.” She mumbled. 

“For what?” He said slightly turning his head to her.

“For being such a burden,” She said. “Because of me, I’m slowing us down. You were right. We wouldn’t be in this mess if I just went to the authorities like you said. I was scared. I knew if I stepped foot on that property they would be there, waiting.”

“Well, as long as you’re not blaming me,” Shawn said. Growling, Kaylee smacked him upside the head once again. “Joking,” He cried. For once in his life, Shawn decided to push the jokes aside and make amends to the young girl. “First off, you’re not a burden, you’re sick. You can’t help it.” He began. “Second, because of me we’re in this mess. I was just too wrapped up on what happened to my dad that I took it out on you. I’m sorry.”