(Chapter 21- Getting Back To Humanity)

“Are you ok?” Chase asked me for the hundredth time today. Ok maybe it wasn’t a hundred but it was a lot.

“Yes Chase I’m fine.” I stressed but I don’t think he was getting.

“Do you need anything?” He asked.

I sighed.”No babe I don’t. Now quit worrying about me, I’m not going to be going into labor anytime soon. We still have nine months.”

“I know but I just want to make sure you’re ok and happy.” He said.

Pour Chase has drove me crazy all day with his, are you ok, and checking to see if I needed something every five minutes. I loved that he worried about me but geese come on. It’s not like I’m handicapped.

“I know but setting here watching my every move isn’t helping me.” I complained.

“Ok, well do you feel like doing anything?”

“Maybe what do you have in mind?” I asked.

“I thought you might like to go for a swim.” He smiled.

“Really, I would love to do that.” I exclaimed. “Wait do I even have a swim suit?”

“I’m sure you do, it’s probably in your closet.”

“Right.” I jumped up and walked to my closet.

I looked though almost all of my stuff until I came to some built in shelves and noticed there were quite a few selections of bathing suits for me. There were so many to choose from but I quickly spotted the one I wanted. It was a pink bikini with white polka dots on it and very cute I might add. I quickly changed in the closet not wanting to waist anymore time.

Since we found out we were pregnant Chase wouldn’t let me out of his sight. He wanted to be near me at all times just in case Don tried to make a move again. We actually hadn’t heard from him in about a week, since he let me leave. I don’t know why but that worried me. It made me feel like he had something planned. They say that when your enemy’s become quiet that’s when you should be worried.

I couldn’t help but wonder what Don had been doing this week. Even though I didn’t really have any romantic feelings for him yet didn’t mean I don’t care for him. I still feel kindness and friendship toward him and I don’t hate him. I think maybe he just needs a friend and he will be ok. I would like to be that for him. I know he says he loves me but I think it’s more of an infatuation to be honest. He wants Arianna not me and I’m not her. I know he told me that I was but I feel no connection to her. If we were the same person wouldn’t I have some sort of memory?

“What’s taking so long in there? Are you ok? Are you hurt?” He panicked.

“For the love of all that’s holey Chase I’m fine.” I yelled.

“Sorry, you worried me.” He apologized.

“Well I’m perfectly fine so chill out.” I said stepping out of the closet.

Chase looked at me with a lustful expression when he seen me in my bikini. His eyes raked my body over a couple of times before I interrupted him.

“See something you like?” I smirked.

“You have no idea.” He smiled making me blush.

Chase continued to stare at me again until I cleared my throat gain his full attention.

“My eyes are up here.” I motioned with my fingers.

“It wasn’t you eyes I was looking for.” He smirked.

“Obviously.” I laughed.

Chase walked into the bathroom and came out holding a robe. He walked over to me holding it open for me to step into. I gave him a questioning look before he spoke.

“As much as I love to look at you I don’t want the whole palace to as well.” He explained.

“Jealous much?”

“Of course I have the hottest girl in the world. I have to look after her.” He laughed; I returned it and slipped into the robe.

“Wait a minute while I change.”  Chase said going into the closet.

I waited on him and in a flash he was out, literally. He smirked at me when I checked him out in his swimming trunks and shirtless body. Yep I was gawking I admit it but come on who wouldn’t. My husband was hot!

“See something you like?” He mocked.

“Yep.” I smiled.

“Good.” He walked over to me and slapped me on the butt before walking out the door. I couldn’t help but smile.

I followed Chase through the palace and out the back to the pool. I had never seen the pool before now but I wish I had. I would have been here all the time if I knew about it. I pulled off my robe and draped it across one of the chairs by the pool. I smiled anxiously before taking a dive in.

When the water hit my skin it felt amazing. It was a hot day and I loved the water. I’m like a fish in it. Chase, Crystal and I all used to be on the swim team last year and we were going to do it this year to but things happened obviously.

 I still miss my home, and parents. Heck I even miss school. If we we’re still back home right now Chase, Crystal, Amy and I and some of our other friends would probably all be hanging out at Ian’s grill like we did most Saturday’s and then we would all go to a party or out somewhere to have fun.

I made a couple of laps around the pool before Chase jumped in beside me. I was so lost in my thought’s I didn’t even realize he wasn’t in the pool yet. When he resurfaced Chase grinned at me mischievously.

“What?” I smiled.

“Wanna race Wells?” he smirked.

“You know it Hayes.” I laughed.

He was still using my nickname even though I was still technically a Hayes now and I was glad. Chase knew I would like that since I am trying to keep some normalcy in my life. I think with my pregnancy my human side was resurfacing again and truth be told I have missed it. Don’t get me wrong I love being a vampire but I have missed humanity too.

“Ok on my mark.” He smiled.”Ready…Go!”

Chase took off in a sprint just before he held out his arm holding me back a little. I should have known he would have done that stunt. It never failed, he done it every time.

“Still haven’t learned have you Wells?” he laughed.

“I guess not.” I huffed.

“Aww don’t get mad. You know you still love me.”

I gave him a serious look until I broke out into a smile. “Yeah you’re right.” I said leaping into his arms.

My lips landed on Chase’s as we began making out. Chase easily lifted me to his waist and wrapped my legs around him. Being in water really makes this easier. I brought my hands to Chase’s hair and ran my fingers through it. Chase moaned into my mouth making me smile. I love that I could do that to him. Before things got any more heated I pulled away.

“Where are you going?” He smirked.

“I’m getting away before we are caught by someone.” I said. “Don’t think you would want to explain to your parent’s what was going on.”

“It’s times like these I wish we had our own place to live and not in a palace full of people.” He stated.

“Yeah speaking of that I wanted to ask you something.”

“Shoot.” He said.

“Are we going to be raising our children here or our own place?” I questioned.

“Really it’s up to us. My mom and dad raised me away from here because they wanted me to have a semi normal life before I became a vampire and I’m glad they did because I got to meet you.” He smiled.

“So we could leave if we wanted to?” I asked surprised.

“Normally yes because the throne will be handed down to my parents until it’s time for me to be king. I my parents don’t need me than we are free to go.”

“But?” I said sensing there was more to add.

“I think that it would be safer for you here. At least here you would be protected. We just went through rehiring new staff and made sure we wouldn’t have a repeat of last time. This is the safest place for you and the babies right now.” He stated.

“Don’t get me wrong I love it here I really do but I want to go back home for a little while. I want to go visit our old friends and see my family who still thinks I’ve been in a school with you over here for a month.” I said.

“Well at least now he knows you’re married. He thinks that we just fell in love and decided to spend the rest of our lives with each other.” He added.

“Yeah only because you compelled him to think that and not ask any questions about the palace or your family.” I said.

“It still worked didn’t it?”

“Yeah I suppose.” I agreed. “But can we please go anyway. I’m pregnant and shouldn’t you be trying to keep me happy?”

“Yes but not if it endangers you.” He said sternly.

“Don won’t hurt me he told me so and I believe him. He told me he would wait for me to come to him but I’m not so we will be fine.” I said.

“I don’t believe it Ashlyn. I feel like he has an alternate plan. Don is not the type to give up that easily on something he wants.” Chase stated.

“So do you want to just live in fear I don’t?” I stated. “Let’s live our lives. Let’s give our children the normal lives we had.”

I silently begged him with my eyes hoping he would say yes. Chase looked like he was actually thinking about it and that made me happy. I needed a break from all this insanity before I lose it myself.

“Alright I guess we can go for a week or so. It all depends on how things go. If any sign of danger turns up though I’m taking you and leaving.” He said seriously.

“Yes!” I jumped on Chase hugging him tight.

“If this how you act then I should give you want you want more often.” He joked.

“I agree.” I smiled.

“I can’t wait to call Crystal. Maybe she and Josh will stay longer since we are coming.” I said.

“Well I guess we should start packing and I’ll go tell my parents.”

“Ok I’ll start right now.” I said getting out of the water.

“Anxious aren’t we.” He said.

“You have no idea.” I smiled.

I wrapped my robe around myself and all but skipped off to the room. I was beyond happy right now. I can’t wait to see everyone again. It feels like I’ve been gone a lifetime. I walked to the night stand and picked up my phone to call Crystal, after three rings she answered.

“Hey girl” Crystal said.

“Hey how’s the honeymoon?” I asked.

“Great but we are getting ready to head back. We should be back in a couple of days.” I could tell she sounded sad about it.

“Wanna stay huh?” I guessed.

“Yeah just a little bit longer.”

“Well guess what?” I said excited.

“What?”

“We are coming soon.” I smiled.

“Really when?” She asked in happiness.

“I don’t know but probably tomorrow since it’s already late today.”

“I can’t leave now.” She whined.

I heard Josh say something to her in the back ground and she was talking back but it sounded muffled so I couldn’t quite make out what they were saying. Suddenly Crystal came back on the phone and squealed.

“What?” I asked her.

“We’re going to stay another week.”

“Awesome I have a lot of things to tell you.” I said happily.

I had missed mine and Crystal’s girl time since all of this had been going on and I was ready to get it back. My world has been turned upside down for long enough now it’s time for some normal again.

“Can’t wait I’ll see you when you get here.” She said before hanging up.

I quickly ran to the closet and pulled out my clothes and started putting them into a suitcase. After my clothes were packed I got some of Chase’s things and packed them next. Within an hour all our things were packed and ready to go. I wonder what was taking Chase so long. Did they object to us leaving or something? I walked to the door ready to go find him when he tried to come in at the same time.

“There you are. I was wondering if everything went ok.” I said.

“Yeah I was just talking to them about a plan of action in case something happened.” He stated.

“Ok, well while you were doing that I packed.” I motioned the suitcases by the bed.

“You shouldn’t have done all of this in your condition.” Chase scolded.

“How many more times do I need to say it? I’m fine; I can do the same things I did before.” I shook my head at him.

“I’m just worried that’s all.” He stated.

“Don’t be.” I said.

“I’ll try.” He sighed in defeat.

“Good.” I smiled. “When are we leaving?”

“We could leave tonight if you want.”

“Oh I want.” I laughed.

“I’ll call the pilot and let him know we will be leaving soon.” Chase said.

After he called Chase had the driver come up and take our bags to the car. I we told his family good bye and they wish us a good time and we left. Our dive to the airport didn’t take too long because before I knew it we were on the plane and it was taking off.

On the flight I got another craving for steak so Chase ordered us one for dinner. Once it came I put it away fast me being pregnant and all. About halfway through the flight I got sleepy and decided on a nap. I know one thing being pregnant wears you out. I laid my head on Chase’s shoulder and fell asleep.

*****

Don POV

I watched as Jocelyn prepared the spell to place on Ashlyn. Jocelyn was a mind worker. Many vampires that have been compelled to forget things but wanted to remember hired her to bring back their memories. She was the best at her job so I knew I had to get her to help.

“Are you sure you want me to do this because once it’s done I don’t know how to undo it.” She stated.

“I’m sure.”

“Just know that Ashlyn hasn’t been compelled to forget anything it was natural what happened to her and I’m not a hundred percent sure how it will turn out. She may remember or it may not work at all I can’t be sure. I have never done this before.” She warned.

“Well I’m out of options now so do it.” I said.

“Alright I will proceed.” She turned back to her worked to finish it.

****

I yawned and rubbed my eyes before opening them. When I looked around the room I noticed that I was at Chase’s house. How did I get here? I rose up and seen I was alone and got out of bed. I must have fallen asleep here doing my homework. I pulled my phone out of my pocket to call my dad and let him know not to be worried. It rang five times before going to voicemail.

“Hey dad it’s me. I fell asleep at Chase’s house but I’ll be home soon so don’t be worried.” I said and hung up.

“Hey you’re up.” Chase smiled walking in his door.

“Yeah sorry I must have dozed off.” I said.

“It’s alright I think your entitled.” He chuckled.

“I am why?” I asked curiously.

“Because you’re pregnant.” He said like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

 I suddenly burst out laughing.”That’s a good one Chase. I haven’t even had sex yet.”

He just looked at me strangely not speaking.

“What?” I questioned.

“Uh are you feeling ok?” He asked.

“I’m fine why?”

“Funny joke Ashlyn.” He said sarcastically. “You a virgin?”

“Excuse me?” I said getting angry. “Just what are you implying?”

“That we have slept together lots of different times.” He stated.

“Yeah right, I think I would remember that.” I laughed. “Plus we’re just friends Chase. Don’t get me confused with one of your other girls.”

“Ok Ashlyn Joke’s over.” He said seriously.

“What joke?” I said annoyed.

What is this about a joke? Has Chase lost it or something? Why would he think I would sleep with him? I wouldn’t ruin our friendship like that. I mean hell yes he was hot enough to but I know it wouldn’t be serious for him and I don’t want to be heartbroken. Too bad he is not a serious guy.

“Ok I’ll play along.” He sighed.

“You will?” I really confused right now.

“Yes.” He smiled. “I want to be more than friends.”

“Whoa hold on their Chase, what has gotten into you?” I stepped back.

“You’re serious?” He finally realized.

I just looked at him strangely. For some reason I feel like we are not on the same page and apparently Chase has flipped his lid.

“I’ll be right back just wait here for a minute.” He said leaving the room.

“Okay what was that about?”

****

Chase POV

“Dad?”

“Yeah son what is it?” He asked clearly hearing the distress in my voice.

“Ashlyn don’t remember anything about us getting married or being together or the babies. She thinks we are still friends and never left home.” I explained.

“What? I have never heard of that happening.”

“I know, what should we do?” I was getting a little worried.

“I don’t know but just play along with her until I can figure this out. I call a mind worker and see if they can help.” He said.

“How can I just pretend we are just friends after everything?” I yelled.

“Find a way or else you are going to scare her again and this time she is pregnant so there is more at risk. Just keep her calm and try to make things as normal as you can.” My dad said seriously.

“Fine but dad?”

“Yeah?”

“Please hurry.” I said.

“I’ll do my best.” He said before hanging up.

I quickly texted Josh and Crystal and told them to get over to my house fast and I would explain when they got here. They replied ok and I was thankful. Maybe they could help me, in the mean time it looks like we are going back to school. If we didn’t she would ask questions and I don’t know how to answer them.

“Chase I really need to go home before I get grounded. My dad is probably wondering where I am.” Ashlyn said walking down the stairs.

“You can’t” I said quickly.

“Why not?”

“Um you dad called my dad and asked if you could stay here tonight; something about your parents having a date night.” I lied.

“Oh that must have been why he didn’t answer.” She said.

“You called him?”

“Yeah I didn’t want him to worry.” She said obviously.

Well that’s just great now I will have to fix that too. Man I really need some help with all of this. I hope Josh get’s here soon.

“I guess I will go lay back down then, I’m pretty tired.” She said.

“Ok.” She placed a kiss on my cheek and went back to my room.

About ten minutes later I heard a car pull up in my drive way and went to see who it was. Josh and Crystal both got out and started toward the front door holding hands. I quickly opened it meeting them outside.

“What going on?” Josh asked.

“You have no idea.” I said running my hands through my hair in frustration.

“Then tell us.” Crystal demanded.

I quickly explained everything to them from what happened with Don to Ashlyn losing her memory. There was a lot to go over but I summed it up the best I could. Crystal and Josh looked shocked but who wouldn’t be? That was a lot of information to take in at one time.

“So let me get this straight we have to act like nothing has happened?” Crystal asked.

“Yes and Josh and I have to talk to everyone to make sure nothing gets leaked to Ashlyn about Italy.” I explained.

“What about her parents?” Josh asked.

“I’ll take care of that too.” I said.

“Are you going to let her move back into her house?” Crystal asked me.

“I guess I don’t have a choice.” I said sadly.

“Don’t worry Chase we’ll figure this out.” Josh said.

“I hope so. I really don’t think I can do what I did before.”  I replied.

“On the upside you do have a bond now so she should feel it. Maybe this time will go better for you.” He said.

“Let’s hope.” I said.”We need to find out what caused this.”

“Yeah but until then we have some work to do.” Josh stated.