Persephone's Cage [Connor Stoll]

chapter thirteen

Lilly awoke to Connor snoring loudly in her ear, his arm draped over her in a protective manner. Despite her wanting to freak out, she didn't. She enjoyed the close contact with another person, even if that person was Connor Stoll. She liked how she fit into his arms.

She glanced up at his sleeping face, his mouth parted slightly. His curly hair was messier than normal, and drool was crusted to the corner of his lips. She giggled quietly at the sight, feeling her heart hammer in her chest.

Lilly meant it when she said she never hated him. He was annoying, sure. He could be impulsive, and he didn't think a lot of the time. But Connor Stoll was a good person. He was brave, talented, and resourceful. He was kind, caring, and made for a really nice pillow.

"Like what you see?" Connor suddenly spoke, one of his eyes peeking open. Lilly launched back, nearly falling off the small bed in embarrassment. Her cheeks flushed. "It's only natural to see me and-"

"Shut up!" She yelled, shoving a pillow over his face. He laughed, causing her to follow suit. Her laughter didn't last long, as memories of the previous day lingered in her heart. She took a deep breath. "I'm gonna go get my stuff. We should leave soon."

Connor must've noticed her mood change, because he lightly grabbed her wrist. "Hey, just saying this now, don't bottle up all your emotions like you normally do. I'm here for you."

She gave him a friendly smile, and tried to ignore the blush that fought to show on her cheeks. "Thanks, Con." She lightly pulled away from his grasp, even though something in her body was telling her to stay.

What was happening with her?

***

The two sat in the stolen honda civic they've had for six days now. Lilly still wondered how they hadn't gotten caught yet. Surely someone was looking for their car. Though, they were four states away.

Lilly held the pomegranate in her hands, both of their gazes on it. "So, how do you think we open it?" She asked.

"How am I supposed to know?" Connor shrugged.

"Aiden what do you-" Lilly paused, turning in the back, before frowning. She turned forward, looking at the plant on the dash. "Um, nevermind."

"I actually have a question." Connor spoke. "Back when you shot Landon. You hit him with an arrow, with no quiver, or arrows. How'd you do that?"

Lilly gaped at him. She had totally forgotten. "I'm...not sure." She stared at her hands. "I remember just being so upset and filled with adrenaline. Something tugged at my stomach, and my body moved without me telling it to. It...It was an arrow made of light."

"Yes! You got it!"

Connor and Lilly screamed turning towards the back of the car. There sat a boy around their age. He was very attractive, with golden hair and deep blue eyes. His skin had a perfect tan, and he had a quiver strung over his shoulder. Lilly gulped.

"Dad?"

"That I am." Apollo smiled at her, his teeth shining brightly. "I'm here to give you some more guidance, since you finally unlocked your power."

Lilly's hands shook. "My..My power?"

"Yes! Oh, I feel a haiku! Hold on," He closed his eyes, his smile still shining. "Your special power/finally unlocked for good/I will train you well."

Lilly and Connor stared at each other. "Dad, what do you mean?"

Apollo suddenly turned serious, before looking at Connor. "Can I speak to my girl in private? Thanks." He waved his hand, and Connor grumbled before reluctantly getting out of the car. Apollo snapped his fingers, and suddenly he was where Connor once was. "He's a good kid. I approve."