Undiscovered Origins

Undiscovered Origins - Chapter 2

Chapter 2:

            Waking up the next morning wasn’t easy as every muscle in Jade’s body screamed defiance. She had always been sore from previous night’s performances, but this time it was unlike any other. There were muscles that were sore that she didn’t even know she had. Rolling around on the bed she didn’t want to get up yet, until she rolled into an exposed spring. The pain in her side jolted her fully awake and she sat up clutching her side. Blood soaked through the nightgown and she inspected her wound. It wasn’t deep but it wasn’t pretty either and she held pressure to it in an attempt to sustain blood.

            Hearing footsteps, she quickly stood up to her feet but the act only made her lightheaded and she had to lean against something. Autumn, a tall beautiful blond with ocean blue eyes and the glitters of sunset across her long eyelashes, came towards her with a snake’s embrace.  Jade remained jealous of her long legs and shimmering eyes that had been no doubt the topic of the many boys she’d met. Jade often wished she got as much recognition as Autumn attracted, but she also never considered herself eye-catching. Autumn always denied her claims and defined her that of untouched beauty and while not everybody saw it, her allure shined beyond any other. It was this and how nice she was that Jade loved about the girl. Autumn kept her positive and always helped her through the tough times.

            “Your act last night was amazing Jade.” Autumn praised.

            “Thank you. Yours was great as well!” Jade complimented.

            “Not nearly as impressive as yours. I nearly fell off the high rope, luckily sister held onto me tightly so I could get a better grip.” Autumn said.

            Jade cringed in pain when she readjusted her hand on her side. Pain shot through her stomach from one side to the other. She nearly stumbled when she lost her balance but Autumn stepped forward to catch her.

            “Oh my. What happened?” Autumn asked.

            “Bed spring.” Jade moaned.

            “It is not right that he makes you sleep in here on this torn mattress. You are a star attraction for his circus and he should provide better for you.” Autumn demanded.

            “I am grateful for what I have. He could do worse. He has done worse.” Jade shuddered.

            Autumn dared not say more because she knew Jade was right. Instead she left and came back with medical supplies. She poured the whiskey on the wound causing Jade to whimper in pain. It felt worse than a charbroiled steak, but she knew it had to be done. Next Autumn wrapped cloth around her stomach and kept it tight to hopefully heal the wound.

            “The act went well last night and we will be traveling through England next.” Autumn said cheerfully.

            That idea didn’t cheer Jade up in the slightest though. England was large with lots of different places to perform, and she knew their upcoming schedule would be tight. Not to mention it was much more city than countryside throughout. She liked where they were now next to all the beautiful forests where she could find peace. It seemed strange to her but it almost felt as if she belonged in the forest.

            Autumn saw the disappointment in Jade’s eyes and knew what bothered her. “I know it doesn’t have as many trees Jade… but there’s more room for escape.”

            “Escape?” Jade whispered frightened.

            “For you, yes. Perhaps you can meet a nice gentleman who can take you out of here.” Autumn smiled.