Fatal Attractions : The Masquerade

Chapter Eleven

All the tents were set up. They're decent sized, big enough to allow a full size air mattress in each one, and whatever else we brought along. By the time we were all settled in, the sun was setting, leaving pink and orange smudges across the sky. I sat in the opening of the tent, feeling like a guard to the three year old girl sleeping on the mattress behind me. My eyes were locked onto the sky, and I almost didn't notice when Sam came and sat down beside me.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" and I couldn't tell if she was asking me or herself as she gazed up at the skyline.

"It is," I responded, my voice barely a whisper. The entire day left me feeling drained and spent, but I was in no mood for sleep. Alex told me several times to get some rest, but all his attempts were futile. I just had to be sure Chloe stayed safe. I felt I'd be useless asleep.

"You know, Lena. This isn't going to end peacefully." My eyes widened as I glanced at her, then back at the setting sun. I was not expecting that. But as the silence drew out between us, I knew she was right.

"I know," I finally said, feeling a pull deep within my chest. This is only going to get ugly. I know from past experience. The last time something like this happened, I had almost died as a result. It'd be foolish to think that there'd be a way out of this without a violent fight, and someone possibly losing their life. I just hope it doesn't come to that.

"I can see it when you look at her. You want to protect her. I saw it the moment you walked in with her in your arms. I've seen that look before; I know that look," she said, and I watched her closely with each word.

"What look?" I asked.

"The protective mother. Mama bear. Everyone knows if you encounter a mama bear, you don't mess with her cubs. Chloe is your cub." My eyes widened with each word. Sam is usually upbeat and bubbly; such a serious topic is not her usual. But as I turned the idea over in my mind I realized, once again, that she's right.

I had never considered it, but I've basically filled myself in as Chloe's replacement mother, until she can be safely returned to her real parents. The thought warms something deep in my chest, and I feel tears prick at my eyes. She's just a baby. What I wouldn't do to protect her. She's innocent.

"It's not fair. She didn't ask for this," I said, swallowing back threatening tears.

"I know, Lena. We're all doing everything we can. But look at you. You're wearing yourself out."

"I won't sleep. I need to keep an eye on her."

"Lena, we're all keeping an eye on her. There's four more of us, you know, it's not only you," she said, trying to reason with me.

"Sam, if something happens while I'm asleep-"

"We'll handle it," she cut me off, softening the interjection with a sweet smile. Playful Sam is back. "We always handle it, don't we? How are you going to protect her if you're milling about like a zombie? You need rest." And for the billionth time, Sam is right. I let out a slow sigh, letting my eyelids close for a moment before I respond.

"Alright," I mumbled, and opened my eyes. Sam was grinning at me.

"Alright? Good!" she squeals, and hugs me. I give her a soft pat on the back.

"Get some rest, Lena. If something happens, I'll be sure to wake you."

"Thanks, Sam," I said, and she rose to her feet.

"Don't mention it!" she called, skipping away. I couldn't help but roll my eyes. These people are ridiculous. But oh, I love them. At this point, I can't imagine life without this crazy bunch.