bite.

bite. chapter 30

Michael was still sleeping on the air mattress when I woke up. Quietly I put my clothes back on and left him sleeping there. Tonight Skull’s little gang was exceptionally quiet, usually there was the heavy thumping of metal base blaring through some speakers, but tonight it was quiet as the grave. I walked up the stairs and found that everyone seemed to be sitting about in silence. At first I panicked but then I heard a familiar voice.

“Is it green tea with lemon?” Keira asked.

“Yes love.” Skull replied in a hush tone.

“Good, I’ve had such a fucking headache all weekend. I hate having to deal with those pushy government assholes. Now rub my shoulders.”

“Yes darling.” Skull said obediently.

I walked into Skull’s office and was surprised to find the gentle sound of waves coming from the stereo system, and delicate smell of incense wafting through the air. Keira was in pink velour track suit today. She was laid across the desk while Skull massaged her shoulders. I knocked on the office door softly. Keira opened one eye and said,

“You have no idea the trouble you’ve caused.”

“I know, I’m a pain in the ass.” I replied.

“I brought you and Michael a red cross parcel of essentials while you survive maison de Skull.” Keira said pointing to several suitcases of clothing.

“Thank you so much.” I said.

“You’re mobile phone is in there too and Dad made sure I pack you one of his bank cards.”

“What’s the limit?”

“The sky.”

“So what’s happening in the real world?”

“The government want you back in custody but our legal eagles are working on it as we speak. Where’s Michael?”

“Sleeping.”

“Poor boy has been a nervous wreck since you were taken into jail. I wish my husband cared about me like that.” Keira said abruptly rolling off the table.

“Aw come on darling, don’t be like that!” Skull whined.

Keira ignored Skull and handed me my cell phone, “Sheldon is desperate to talk to you.”

“The government don’t suspect his involvement in all this?” I asked worried.

Keira shook her head, “He’s very good at covering his tracks.”

Skull quickly grabbed Keira’s green tea and offered it to her. Keira looked at the cup scathingly.

“I wanted a slice of lemon in the tea.” She snapped.

“Babe, we don’t have any lemons.” Skull replied.

Keira handed me a five pound note, “Be a love and go and get me a lemon from the corner shop. You look like you need some fresh air.” She said.

I should have stayed in, but I had been cooped up in the hotel for so long the luxury of simply walking out on to the street was too strong. I slipped out from the pub holding the money and my cell phone. It was pouring with rain but luckily the shop was a two minute walk away. Running across the road I entered the small newsagents and smiled. Shopping just like any other normal person. I browsed the magazines and the small selections of goods they had to offer enjoying the freedom of being able to do the things I use to do when I was human. Choosing a single lemon I got into the queue and waited to be served. An old lady behind the counter served me. I got my lemon and I turned. The world stopped turning and froze for a moment. Micah stood behind me arms folded chatting pleasantly to the girl in the queue. I pretended to act normal and walked past him. He spoke loudly telling the girl that he was from a small town in the US and had come to England to pursue a girl he was once in love with. The girl smiled and laughed at his jokes as he turned on the full Micah charmed, I remember myself being in awed and impressed by the tour de force of Micah’s charisma offensive. But now listening to it I just wanted to roll my eyes and vomit- well maybe I would have done that if I wasn’t so scared. The girl handed her cell number to him. I walked out the shop without even acknowledging him. Outside the rain was falling. I waited under the plastic awning until Micah exited. He looped his arm around my waist and produced an umbrella which he opened.