From Gods (20 page)

Chapter 25

During the whole ride to dinner, Skylar’s lips curved into a smile. The sun was descending, streaking between the clouds with hues of violet. With the breathtaking view and Mason by her side, she was as giddy as a schoolgirl. Taking in the moment that she was actually on a date with him, she wanted to freeze time. 

They drove up to the valet parking at an Italian bistro called Bella Amore. Situated on the other side of town, it was a decent sized restaurant, but clearly cozy and elegant. Looking at Mason and herself, Skylar wondered if they were underdressed. When they entered, the aroma jolted her hunger pangs again, making her think of nothing but food. As if he owned the place, he held Skylar’s hand and passed by the hostess.

“May I help you, sir?” the hostess asked, dressed all in black, looking stunning.

Mason stopped in his tracks and looked up.

“Oh…Mr. Grand,” the hostess said, and froze with an “oops” look on her face.

Mr. Grand. I like the sound of his last name. Mrs. Skylar Grand. I like the sound of that even better.

The hostess continued. “I didn’t recognize you. You’re not…dressed. I mean…in your usual attire.” Her words were cautious, seemingly not wanting to offend him.

Mason looked at his clothing. “Sorry…we just got back from camping and we’re very hungry,” he smiled, shrugging his shoulders.

“Oh, no need to apologize, Mr. Grand. Your table is ready.” She gestured her hand for them to proceed.

Skylar assumed they would be sitting at a regular table, but they walked into a private room instead. A table for two nestled in the center. On top of the table, plain white classy plates and utensils were already arranged. To give it a romantic feel, light from a small candle danced to the instrumental background music.

Leading Skylar to her seat, Mason pulled out her chair. Smiling, she sat and he placed the cream-colored fabric napkin on her lap.

“Thank you,” Skylar said, gazing at the oil painting of a vineyard hanging on the wall.

With a nod and a smile, he sat across from her.

“Mr. Grand, are you ready to order?” the waitress said softly.

“Yes…I mean…give me a second please.” He turned to Skylar. “Is there anything particular you would like to eat?”

She was starving beyond words, and so she didn’t care. “Anything is fine. I like everything.”
What a dork I am. Did I just say that? 
She didn’t want him to think she was a pig.

“We’ll start with assorted salad and a cup of minestrone soup. For our meal, we’ll do family style…seafood linguine, mushroom ravioli, and a roasted chicken. And don’t forget, two glasses of water.”

With a smile, the waitress left. Skylar looked at Mason with wide eyes.

“I’m hungry and I know you are, too. I like girls that eat. And I know you can eat.”

Skylar giggled. “Do you own this restaurant?”

“You can tell? I’m just kidding. Yes, it’s one of many Nick, Everett, Amanda, and I own. We hired managers to handle the business so we can kick back and enjoy.” He winked.

“That’s great.” Skylar wanted to kick herself for giving him a stupid response. “So…Amanda, too; your cousin?”

“Amanda is not really our cousin. We rescued her from the vultures a couple of years ago, around the time our moms were taken from us, but we were unable to save her mom. We settled her in a home nearby. We just tell everyone she’s our cousin because she suddenly appeared in our lives, not that we have so many friends. And there are many occasions she stays overnight when she feels unsafe by herself. We don’t want people talking and spreading rumors. But…don’t tell her I told you that. She doesn’t like people knowing her story.”

“I won’t say anything. I don’t think she likes me anyway.”

“That’s not true. She sounds and seems tough, but deep inside, underneath that wall of hers, she’s really sweet and caring. She has a big heart, but only when she wants to show it.”

Ironically, that was how Skylar would have described Mason. “I’m sure she does. So…you come here often?”

“Not when I want to see you. And only when I want to hear you say the word ‘so’ before each of your questions.”

“Umm…okay,” she blushed and shot her eyes to the empty plate in front of her, wondering how many dates he’d brought there.

Soon after, the waitress entered. She placed the salads, the cups of soup, and glasses of water and left. As carefully and ladylike as possible, Skylar slurped her soup with the spoon.

“How’s the soup?”

“It’s delicious, thank you,” she replied, taking another sip. After the starters, the main dishes were served. While they ate, Mason asked her about her parents. He questioned her about school, and how she felt about working at the diner. The conversation was mostly focused around Skylar; but when she asked questions about him, his answers were short and to the point, and he would quickly redirect the questions back to her. Then the conversation became serious.

Mason leaned closer. “I know it’s difficult to accept who you are, but you have to face reality. We don’t know when these vultures will attack. We don’t even know who, or what, will come after you, or why they want you dead. Until we figure out the reasons why, you must never go anywhere alone. It’s imperative that you listen to what I’m asking you to do, no matter how much you may disagree. I will be there for you as much as I can, so you need to help me…help you.”

“Okay,” Skylar nodded, returning to reality. But it was difficult to grasp a reality that was meant to be written in a book, or to be seen on a television show, or the movies. “I don’t go out much. I’m usually around Kayla. We’re at home or at work, or out shopping or hanging out with you and Nick.”

“Good. Just stay low. Watch your back. Mind who is around you, and never go anywhere by yourself, especially the movie theater restroom.”

Though the incident at the movie theater restroom wasn’t anything to laugh about, they busted out laughing. After a good round of laughs, it got quiet.

“Eat. Your food will get cold,” Mason directed.

After taking several more bites, she noted her plate was almost empty. Dinner being almost over, she felt the need to ask as many questions as possible while he was willing to speak. “Do you miss your mom? I mean…do you think of her often?” After she asked, she realized she’d hit a sore topic. Being around him made her so nervous, asking questions was the only way she could feel at ease.

“Yes, I do. She was the best mom anyone could ask for, but I’m sure you’d say the same thing about your mom,” he grinned. Then he grew serious. “I wish I’d known who I was and the capabilities I had sooner. Then, maybe I could have saved her.” He looked tormented, and guilt was written all over his face.

“I’m sorry,” Skylar said sympathetically. “I don’t know what I would do if I ever lost my mom.”

“Losing a loved one is torture, especially for those left behind. They say time heals all wounds. It doesn’t. It just patches a broken heart. It doesn’t get any easier over time; you just learn to live with the pain.”

Skylar breathed in a deep sigh. It was exactly how she felt with her dad leaving her. She understood Mason’s pain and felt as if his pain were hers. Wanting to reach out and hold him in her arms to comfort him, she stood up.

Alarmed, looking perplexed, Mason stood up, too. “Why are you standing? Are you okay?” 

“I…it’s just…I mean…,” she started to explain, but words failed to escape her mouth.

Guiding her back to her seat, Mason placed his hands on her shoulders until her bottom touched the cushion. “I see how this is affecting you…let’s change the subject.” He jiggled, tugged, and pulled a rib from his piece of chicken on the plate. “Here. It’s a wishbone. The winner gets to make a wish.”

“Really? I’ve never heard of that before.”

“Where have you been? Did you live under a rock?” He chuckled.

“Maybe. Pretty much.”

“Here,” Mason said and placed it in front of her. “Pull.”

Skylar took hold of the other side and did as instructed. Upon pulling, she broke it, but not

in her favor. She frowned. “What are you going to wish for?”

“Wait. You didn’t give me time.” Mason closed his eyes. “Don’t stare at me,” he muttered

with his eyes still closed.

Skylar laughed, thinking how adorable he was. “I wasn’t staring.”

Mason opened them. “Done. Oh, yes you were.”

“Fine.” She blushed. “What did you wish for?”

“I can’t tell you. Then it won’t come true.”

“Alright, but when it comes true, you’ll have to let me know.”

“Deal,” he winked, placing the wishbone back on the plate.

The waitress came back several times asking if they needed anything. Skylar couldn’t believe how attentive the waitress was, but then again, she would be too if she was serving her boss. After dinner, they agreed to skip dessert and headed home. The drive home was a different view. The stars were out, dotting the sky with twinkling lights while the moon cast a golden hue. How wonderful dinner was, how memorable tonight’s date was, and how perfect Mason was.

Chapter 26

Skylar woke up feeling like she could float off the ground. Forgetting about what she had been through and forgetting about what danger could be ahead, her mind settled into a world of perfect bliss. Suddenly, she realized she only had one week left until she had to go back home. What would happen to their relationship? She recalled telling Kayla not to fall too deeply for Nick; perhaps she needed to remind herself too. Her thoughts were broken when there was a soft knock on the door.

“Come in.”

The door swung wide open. “Hey, stranger. Where did you go last night?”
Skylar had forgotten that Nick made her forget. When Kayla didn’t ask questions regarding

the paranormal activities that happened after camping, she relaxed her shoulders and continued their conversation. “Mason took me out to dinner.”

“And…?”

“Nothing happened. He didn’t kiss me, if you’re wondering.”

Kayla plopped herself on the bed. “I didn’t ask,” she smirked. “Don’t want to kiss and tell? That’s fine.”

“No, no,” Skylar shook her head. “I wanted to, but nooo. Trust me. I would tell you.” Wondering how much of the last couple of days Nick made her forget, she asked about camping. “Would you go camping again?”

“Hell, no! I didn’t like it at all. Why do people go camping? It’s awful. The ground is hard, there’s no bathroom…the only good part was spending the night with Nick—and nothing happened, if you’re wondering.”

Skylar arched her brows to show she wasn’t buying Kayla’s story.

“I would tell you. He was actually a perfect gentleman. I was quite surprised. Maybe he isn’t a bad boy type after all. You know, some boys are all talk, but they’re actually sweet and sensitive.”

“Just be careful,” Skylar mumbled, thinking she needed to take her own advice.

Suddenly, Kayla looked serious. “You know what? I just realized we only have one week together. It means summer is almost over. What do you want to do before you leave?”

“Not much. Let’s just hang out.”

“Maybe we can double date.” Kayla’s eyes lifted up with a sly grin. “Anyway, we better get ready for work. Looks like my mom is still sleeping. I’ll fix breakfast.” Then she was out the door.

***

“Hey, girls,” Jack greeted, standing in the back of the kitchen where he always stood.

“Hey, Jack,” the girls returned.

“Mona has the day off today, so it’s just you girls. Oh…and the new girl starts today. She’ll be here after lunch for the dinner rush.”

“Okay. No problem. Mom already told me about it. I’m supposed to train her,” Kayla muttered, heading to the storage room, then she paused and locked eyes with Skylar. “I’ll get your apron and your hair tie.”

“Thanks.” 

The sound of Skylar’s text message jingle rang. Thinking it was Kayla fooling around, she clicked to check. Surprisingly, it was Mason.

Hello Echo.

Skylar let out a short chuckle.

Hi.

Are you at work?

Yes.

I won’t be there today. We have business to attend to.

Okay.

Remember to stay safe.

I will.

Till then.

The text from him made her stomach flutter with warmth, but she was disappointed that he could not come to see her. That was one less day to spend time together. He knew she was visiting. Didn’t he care?

“Pretty slow for a Monday, don’t you think?” Kayla said.

Skylar jumped from the sound of Kayla’s voice. “Uhhh…yeah…slow.”

“Okay, what happened?” She tossed the hair tie and the apron at her.

“Nothing…it’s Mason. He won’t be coming to the restaurant today.”

“I just got a text from Nick. He says he won’t be coming today either…business, he said. I

wonder what they’re up to?” Kayla’s eyes grew wide with curiosity. “Why don’t we do something tonight? Let’s go out to dinner.”

“Sure,” Skylar agreed, tying her hair up and the apron behind her. Then she went behind the cash register and became absolutely still when she turned. Trying not to make it obvious she was staring, she peered from her peripheral vision. Kayla took the dirty blond guy and his friend to the table and came back to stand beside her.

“What’s wrong?” Kayla asked, noticing Skylar’s tense body.

“Nothing,” she said quickly. Skylar had never mentioned them to Kayla. This was a small town. They were likely to bump into each other…she guessed. But there were other times when she had thought she had seen them, like at Starla, but she wasn’t sure. One thing for sure, she didn’t like the way they looked at her, or how they seemed to be around unexpectedly.

Her thoughts of them were broken when the door chimed and Amanda walked in. Without a smile, she greeted them politely. “Hi…we need to talk.”

Not knowing which one she meant, Skylar assumed it was her and followed Amanda out the door. Scooting to the side of the diner, she scanned the perimeter with Amanda.

“What’s going on?” Amanda’s tone was not friendly.

“What do you mean?”

“Mason texted me and asked me to keep an eye on you. He even gave me your cell number. He said if something happens to you, I’m to blame. He’s not this demanding, well usually.”

Skylar fluttered her eyelashes, wondering what she was talking about. She had just spoken to Mason via text.

“Okay…I take that back. He is demanding.”

“I think…he’s afraid…the vultures will come back,” Skylar spoke with hesitation. How much to say, she didn’t know.

“The question is why? Why are the vultures after you? I know you’re half blood, but…what is it that you and Mason are not telling me?”

Skylar wasn’t good at lying, but for her sake she had to. Mason had told her not to tell anyone she had evil blood. “We’re not hiding anything,” she said with conviction. “I need to go back inside.”

“Fine. But know that I’m here for business and not pleasure. You’re stuck with me until the boss tells me to unleash you.”

Skylar rolled her eyes. “Nice words, Amanda.”

Amanda turned Skylar around when she headed for the door, gripping tightly around her arm. “Look, I don’t know what kind of game you’re playing, but I care about Mason. He doesn’t care for people easily. Ever since his mom passed away, he’s built a wall around himself. He hasn’t been the same. He’s been afraid to…care.” Amanda paused with an “oops” look on her face, looking like she had shared a bit too much information about Mason. “I don’t understand his sudden interest in you. Whatever it is you’re hiding, you should tell me right now.”

Skylar had had enough. She wanted to be nice, but she could only take so much. It suddenly dawned on her that Amanda may have a crush on Mason. Wanting so much to say something to sting Amanda back, she bit down on her lip, but anger was rising inside her. She had promised Mason she wouldn’t tell Amanda that she knew they weren’t cousins, so she stood there, taking the heat, and letting Amanda speak her mind. 

When enough was enough, she yanked her arm back and pierced her eyes on Amanda’s. “Don’t touch me. Even if I was hiding something, which I’m not, I wouldn’t tell you. Like you said to Everett, be a little human, will ya?” Skylar turned and walked into the diner.