Heated

34

With Vader gone, a lingering sense of unease has reverberated in my brain all morning. It is crazy to think the person I dreaded seeing the most, was now the person who I craved the most.

Stryker walks in the cafeteria, yet I only see one person.

Instantly Vader's voice echoes in my ear.

"Watch him so when you see him next, you will only be able to think about me coming inside of you."

Heat rushes to my cheeks as inappropriate images conjure in my mind at the sight of Stryker and it only makes me feel more guilty for what I am about to do.

In the aftermath of my revenge-fueled decision, I used my friend's feelings for me as a pawn in my vindictive game with Lord Vader.

The kid has been nothing but kind to me and in turn I go behind his back and sleep with his superior.

I should want to be with someone kind like him. Someone that wouldn't kill another person for looking at them the wrong way.

However, I can't help the way my body pulls to Lord Vader's like a magnet. The vulnerability we have shared to each other, feels like another language between us two, in which words just don't do.

Stryker, with a boyish smile, plops down in the chair across from me with his food.

To alleviate the impending awkwardness, I make small talk, "Morning. Where are the boys?" Meaning, how long do I have to procrastinate in telling you the truth.

"They were right behind me, so they should be here soon."

Shit. So I have about 30 seconds.

"So about the date-"

"Oh yeah, I've been thinking of where we could go."

A knot tightened in my stomach as I forced a smile, "I'm not so sure if that's a good idea anymore."

His expression shifted from excitement to curiosity, "What do you mean?"

I bit my lip, searching for the right words, "I just think it's not the right time for any of that. I don't know what's happening but, whatever battle we are up against, I only want to focus on that."

I'm not lying. I'm not telling the truth.

Uncomfortability has made the air thick with tension. His eyes darkened, and his posture stiffened. "Is there someone else?"

The accusation hit me like a punch to the gut. "No, no, it's not like that. I spend all my time with you guys anyways," I deny.

But my denial seemed to ignite a spark of anger in his eyes. He sighs, frustration creeping into his voice."I guess I just don't understand what has happened since now and yesterday."

Well for starters, having sex with Lord Vader.

"I don't want to get into trouble. Not when there is already so much at risk right now."

"Sure. Yeah." He dismisses, clearly disappointed.

"I'm sorry," I say sincerely.

"Good morning!" Alec hollers, cheerly, a stark contrast to our serious demeanors.

Alec comes up behind Stryker and grabs his shoulders, rough-housing him, "Hey what's with the face, Grumpy."

Abruptly, Stryker stands to his feet, "I need to go."

"Where are you going, Stryke?"

"Not hungry." He snaps before storming out. I've never seen him this angry before.