Taken

Chapter 22

Yes, it's... kinda been a long time. Buuut, not as long as before... so HA!

:D

Enjoy now.

Chapter 22

*Mallory*

            As I awoke the next day, my mind immediately strayed to thoughts of Luke, Ray, and of course, Kyle. Upon waking, I lifted my head drearily from my pillow, my eyes scanning the room for the Damiens hulking form.  I felt my stomach drop as the emptiness of the room slammed into me. I had hopped he would’ve at least been there when I had awoken.

            It took a few minutes to get me moving; I really wasn’t a morning person. Eventually, I stumbled out of bed and towards my closet. I dressed simply, throwing on plain white shorts and a blue tank top. I waste less than five minutes in the bathroom, taking care of the basics before leaving the room.

            Now that I was safe, warm and rested, I could really feel the difference shifting really had caused to my body. Slowly and thoroughly, I studied myself in the mirror. I observed my body over all, noticing that there did seem to be a new glow or shine to my skin. I had always been somewhat tan, but this was a more dusky and strong light golden color; it was kind of mesmerizing. I leaned in closer to the reflective material, now studying the new color of my eyes.

            I corrected myself mentally; they weren’t necessary a new color. However, now, there was a light gold ring that circled my light green orbs.

            “It adds to the beauty,” came Damien’s deep rumble. I wasn’t startled, so I didn’t jump. Strangely enough, I had heard his silent approach with what seemed to be new ears. Combine that with the new and improved functioning of my eyes, and I could consider myself super-woman.

            I met his eyes in the mirror, only now noticing the ring of gold that circled his eyes as well. My eyes rolled automatically while my lips begrudgingly tilted up into a small smile.

            “Thanks,” I mumbled. A smile lit up his face, making my breath rush out of me quietly. It had obviously not been as quite as I had thought, because it caused his lips to than curl into a smirk. I stuck my tongue at him childishly, making him chuckle in return. “Any news on Luke and Ray and… Kyle.” My worlds faltered some on Kyle’s name; I just couldn’t say it without flashbacks from the night before swallowing my mind and practically drowning my thoughts.

            He sobered up quickly and shook his head, making my hope drop some. With a sigh, he wrapped long arms around my waist and pulled me back into him.

            “They’ll be okay; Luke isn’t my beta just out of convenience.” His attempt at humor flew over my head as more worries swarmed about.