The Guardian Angel

Chapter-3: James

I couldn't talk. I had questions swimming in my mind, but right now I needed some space. Rachel being so close.... Disturbed me. I cleared my throat, moving to stand up.

Rachel stepped back, giving me space to do so. Shaking herself out of the trance that had been induced between us.

I got up slowly, doing my best not to disturb the stitching. I staggered a bit and felt Rachel grab my arm, supporting me. I clutched my head, feeling a little woozy.

"It's the painkillers. They're kind of strong." She explained.

Kind of strong was putting it lightly. It took me a second to get used to it. The stitches were still fresh and sent flares of pain through me at times, it would've been unbearable if not for the painkillers. Anyway, from the time they had given me painkillers, it'd been a while. The effect must've worn off.

Rachel's arm still held onto my bicep, her nails lightly digging into my skin.

"I'm alright. Just a bit dizzy." I assured her, brushing her hand away.

She nodded, slipping her hands into her pocket.

I walked out of the room, making sure I don't fall down. I walked to the other room, taking a breather as I did so. The stitch wasn't very comfortable. I supposed it would be so until it dissolved.

I knelt by Leah's side, brushing my fingers along her jaw, a light smile tugging the corner of my lips. I knew she must've been worried sick. I placed a light kiss on the top of her head, making sure not to wake her up.

I got up, moving to get out of the room. I didn't feel like sleeping yet. I saw a shape hurling toward me in the periphery of my vision. I ducked, avoiding Stephen's large fist to my head. The sudden motion, made me yell in pain.

"You don't deserve her!" He growled, advancing on me as I backed up. I didn't have the strength to fight him. Of all the times for him to pick a fight with me, he had to do it now.

We were already out of the room, standing in a large landing area. When backed, I felt the wall behind me and I knew I was fucked. I couldn't make a dash for it and with Stephen right in front, fighting wasn't an option either.

"I love her and yet she chooses you!"

"Don't blame me because you were a jerk to her, Stephen."

"I always did nothing but protect and love her."

He raised his fist again, swinging it towards my face. I threw my hands up, trying to block it. The blow never landed.

Rachel now stood between Stephen and I, her face twisted with murderous rage.

"Step back and I'll leave this here." Rachel warned. "Try to attack him again and you won't see the light of day."

Leah and Jessica were outside by this time, both of them staring with wide eyes. Stephen straightened, a smirk appearing on his face.

"Seriously? Funny you should say that after what happened at the house."

"The only thing I saw was your ass being handed to you." Rachel smirked now, her voice taunting. "You aren't as tough as you think you are."

A low snarl left Stephen's mouth. "Listen here, you—"

"Guys, we have an issue." Liv interrupted, I ripped my eyes off Rachel and looked at her. She still looked shaky from the time Stephen put her out.

"Not now, Liv." Rachel said dismissively. "Someone needs to learn a lesson."

"Rachel." The seriousness that crept into her voice made Rachel look at her. "They're here."